Congressional Record United States Th of America PROCEEDINGS and DEBATES of the 111 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 111 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 155 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2009 No. 38 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was May Your blessings be with those Ms. Potter has served in a number of called to order by the Speaker pro tem- suffering from the ravages of war and leadership roles at both the State and pore (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas). our duty to them be ever on our minds. national levels of the American Legion f We are comforted by Your presence Auxiliary, and I would like to thank as we pray for a peaceful Nation. her personally for her ongoing service DESIGNATION OF THE SPEAKER In Your Name we pray, amen. to our Nation’s veterans. PRO TEMPORE f She is joined today by her husband, The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- THE JOURNAL Toby, a retired Navy Seabee. fore the House the following commu- I ask my colleagues to join me in rec- nication from the Speaker: The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ognizing Ms. Potter for her service to WASHINGTON, DC, Chair has examined the Journal of the our country. March 4, 2009. last day’s proceedings and announces I hereby appoint the Honorable SHEILA to the House her approval thereof. f JACKSON-LEE to act as Speaker pro tempore Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER on this day. nal stands approved. NANCY PELOSI, PRO TEMPORE f Speaker of the House of Representatives. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- f PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE bers are reminded to refrain from ref- PRAYER The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the erences to persons in the gallery. gentleman from Texas (Mr. POE) come Chaplain Cherita Potter, National f forward and lead the House in the Chaplain, American Legion Auxiliary, Pledge of Allegiance. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Seaside, Oregon, offered the following Mr. POE of Texas led the Pledge of PRO TEMPORE prayer: Allegiance as follows: Dear Lord, we thank You for this day The SPEAKER pro tempore. After I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the and the opportunities it presents to us. consultation among the Speaker and United States of America, and to the Repub- the majority and minority leaders, and Fill us with a renewed spirit, never lic for which it stands, one nation under God, to waver when the way is hard. Prepare indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. with their consent, the Chair announces that, when the two Houses each of us with open hearts and broad- f ened minds to face the many chal- meet in joint meeting to hear an ad- lenges set before us. WELCOMING CHAPLAIN CHERITA dress by the Right Honorable Gordon Direct our thoughts and emotions so POTTER Brown, Prime Minister of the United that we may exhibit fair judgment and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Kingdom of Great Britain and North- the practice of good core values. objection, the gentleman from Oregon ern Ireland, only the doors imme- May the principles of justice, free- (Mr. WU) is recognized for 1 minute. diately opposite the Speaker and those dom, democracy, and loyalty be ever There was no objection. immediately to her left and right will preserved for a happy and secure Amer- (Mr. WU asked and was given permis- be open. ica. sion to revise and extend his remarks.) No one will be allowed on the floor of Open our eyes to the needs of others. Mr. WU. Madam Speaker, I’d like to the House who does not have the privi- Make us sensitive to the issues of pov- first welcome my father, K.C. Wu, to lege of the floor of the House. Due to erty, racial, sexual, and age discrimi- the House gallery. the large attendance that is antici- nation, war and peace, pollution and It is also my distinct pleasure and pated, the rule regarding the privilege our environment. honor to welcome our guest chaplain of the floor must be strictly enforced. Help us to recognize and grasp the for today, Ms. Cherita Potter. Children of Members will not be per- opportunities for service, that each one Ms. Potter is the national chaplain mitted on the floor. The cooperation of of us might make a difference. for the American Legion Auxiliary and all Members is requested. God, we thank You for this great Na- one of my constituents in Oregon. She The practice of reserving seats prior tion and the service men and women is also an active member of Commu- to the joint meeting by placard will who defend and protect our freedoms. nity Presbyterian Church in Cannon not be allowed. Members may reserve Help us to know how to best honor and Beach, Oregon, where she participates their seats by physical presence only support them. Fill them with strength in Vacation Bible School, choir and following the security sweep of the and courage to endure. Bible study. Chamber.

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 Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.000 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2928 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 RECESS The gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. tion, an America renewed under a new The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- PETRI). President, to say that America’s faith ant to the order of the House of Thurs- The VICE PRESIDENT. The Presi- in the future has been, is, and always day, February 26, 2009, the House dent of the Senate, at the direction of will be an inspiration to me and to the stands in recess subject to the call of that body, appoints the following Sen- whole world. the Chair. ators as members of the committee on Two centuries ago, your creation of Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 5 min- the part of the Senate to escort the America was the boldest possible affir- utes a.m.), the House stood in recess Right Honorable Gordon Brown, Prime mation of faith in the future. It’s a fu- subject to the call of the Chair. Minister of the United Kingdom of ture you have not just believed in but During the recess, beginning at 10:49 Great Britain and Northern Ireland, a future you have built with your own a.m., the following proceedings were into the House Chamber: hands. had: The Senator from Nevada (Mr. REID); On the 20th of January, you, the The Senator from Illinois (Mr. DUR- American people, wrote the latest f BIN); chapter in the American story, with a JOINT MEETING TO HEAR AN AD- The Senator from Massachusetts (Mr. transition of dignity, in which both DRESS BY THE RIGHT HONOR- KERRY); sides of the aisle should take great ABLE GORDON BROWN, PRIME The Senator from Connecticut (Mr. pride. And on that day, billions of peo- MINISTER OF THE UNITED KING- DODD); ple truly looked to Washington, D.C., DOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND The Senator from Wisconsin (Mr. as a shining city upon the hill, lighting NORTHERN IRELAND FEINGOLD); up the whole of the world. The Speaker of the House presided. The Senator from California (Mrs. Let me thank President Obama for The Majority Floor Services Chief, BOXER); his leadership, for his friendship and Mr. Barry Sullivan, announced the The Senator from Maryland (Mr. for giving the whole world renewed Vice President and Members of the CARDIN); hope in itself. U.S. Senate who entered the Hall of the The Senator from Virginia (Mr. And I know you will allow me to sin- House of Representatives, the Vice WEBB); gle out for special mention today one President taking the chair at the right The Senator from New Hampshire of your most distinguished Senators, of the Speaker, and the Members of the (Mrs. SHAHEEN); known in every continent and a great Senate the seats reserved for them. The Senator from Delaware (Mr. friend. Northern Ireland today is at The SPEAKER. The Chair appoints KAUFMAN); peace, more Americans have health as members of the committee on the The Senator from Kentucky (Mr. care, children around the world are part of the House to escort the Right MCCONNELL); going to school, and for all those Honorable Gordon Brown, Prime Min- The Senator from Arizona (Mr. KYL); things, we owe a great debt to the life ister of the United Kingdom of Great The Senator from Indiana (Mr. and courage of Senator EDWARD KEN- Britain and Northern Ireland, into the LUGAR); NEDY. Chamber: The Senator from Tennessee (Mr. Today, having talked to him last The gentleman from Maryland (Mr. CORKER); night, I want to announce, awarded by HOYER); The Senator from Georgia (Mr. Her Majesty the Queen on behalf of the The gentleman from South Carolina ISAKSON); British people, an honorary knighthood (Mr. CLYBURN); The Senator from Idaho (Mr. RISCH); for Sir EDWARD KENNEDY. The gentleman from Connecticut The Senator from Wyoming (Mr. Madam Speaker, Mr. Vice President, (Mr. LARSON); BARRASSO); and I come in friendship to renew, for new The gentleman from California (Mr. The Senator from Mississippi (Mr. times, our special relationship that is BECERRA); WICKER). founded on our shared history, our The gentlewoman from Connecticut The Majority Floor Services Chief shared values and, I believe, our shared (Ms. DELAURO); announced the Acting Dean of the Dip- futures. The gentleman from Missouri (Mr. lomatic Corps, Her Excellency Heng I grew up in the 1960s as America, led SKELTON); Chee Chan, Ambassador of the Republic by President Kennedy, looked to the The gentleman from California (Mr. of Singapore. heavens and saw not the endless void of BERMAN); The Acting Dean of the Diplomatic the unknown but a new frontier to dare The gentleman from Massachusetts Corps entered the Hall of the House of to discover and to explore. People said (Mr. NEAL); Representatives and took the seat reit couldn’t be done but America did it. The gentleman from North Carolina served for her. And 20 years later, in the 1980s, (Mr. MCINTYRE); At 11 o’clock and 7 minutes a.m., the America, led by President Reagan, re- The gentlewoman from California Majority Floor Services Chief an- fused to accept the fate of millions (Ms. WATSON); nounced the Right Honorable Gordon trapped behind the Iron Curtain and in- The gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Brown, Prime Minister of the United sisted, instead, that the peoples of CHANDLER); Kingdom of Great Britain and North- Eastern Europe be allowed to join the The gentleman from Ohio (Mr. ern Ireland. ranks of nations which live safe, BOEHNER); The Prime Minister of the United strong, and free. People said it would The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Kingdom of Great Britain and North- never happen in our lifetime, but it did, CANTOR); ern Ireland, escorted by the committee and the Berlin Wall was torn down The gentleman from Indiana (Mr. of Senators and Representatives, en- brick by brick. PENCE); tered the Hall of the House of Rep- So, early in my life, I came to under- The gentleman from Michigan (Mr. resentatives and stood at the Clerk’s stand that America is not just the in- MCCOTTER); desk. dispensable Nation; you are the irre- The gentlewoman from Washington (Applause, the Members rising.) pressible Nation. (Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS); The SPEAKER. Members of Con- Throughout your history, America The gentleman from Texas (Mr. gress, I have the high privilege and the has led insurrections in the human CARTER); distinct honor of presenting to you the imagination. You’ve summoned revolu- The gentleman from California (Mr. Right Honorable Gordon Brown, Prime tionary times through your belief that MCCARTHY); Minister of the United Kingdom of there is no such thing as an impossible The gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Great Britain and Northern Ireland. endeavor, and it’s never possible to ROS-LEHTINEN); (Applause, the Members rising.) come here without having your faith in The gentleman from New York (Mr. Prime Minister BROWN. Madam the future renewed. KING); Speaker, Mr. Vice President, distin- Now, I want to thank you on behalf The gentleman from New York (Mr. guished Members of Congress, I come of the British people because through- MCHUGH); and to this great capital of this great Na- out the whole century, the American

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.003 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2929 people stood liberty’s ground, not just Alliances can wither or be destroyed, bility, look out for others, and if these in one world war but in two. And I but partnerships of purpose are inde- are the principles we live by in our want you to know that we will never structible. Friendships can be shaken, families and neighborhoods, they forget the sacrifice and the service of but our friendship is unshakable. Trea- should also be the principles that guide the American soldiers who gave their ties can be broken, but our partnership and govern our economic life. lives for people whose names they is unbreakable. And I know that there And the world has learned that what never knew and whose faces they never is no power on Earth that can ever makes for the good society also now saw, yet people who have lived in free- drive us apart. makes for the good economy, too. My dom thanks to the bravery and valor of We will work tirelessly with you as father was a minister of the church, the Americans who gave that last full partners for peace in the Middle East; and I have learned again what I was measure of devotion. for a two-state solution, proposed by taught by him: that wealth should help Cemetery after cemetery across Eu- President Clinton and driven forward more than the wealthy; that good for- rope honors the memory of American by President Bush, that provides for tune should serve more than the fortu- soldiers, resting row upon row, often nothing less than a secure Israel, safe nate; and that riches must enrich not alongside comrades-in-arms from Brit- within its borders, existing side by side just some of our communities but all of ain. And there is no battlefield of lib- with a viable Palestinian state. our communities. And these enduring erty on which there is not a piece of And we will work tirelessly with you values are, in my view, the values we land that is marked out as American, to reduce the threat of nuclear pro- need for these new times. and there is no day of remembrance liferation and reduce the stockpile of We tend to think of the sweep of des- within Britain that is not also a com- nuclear weapons. And our shared mes- tiny as stretching across many months memoration of American courage and sage to Iran, it is simple: We are ready and years before culminating in deci- sacrifice far from home. for you to rejoin the international sive moments that we call history. But In the hardest days of the last cen- community, but first, you must cease sometimes the reality is that defining tury, faith in the future kept America your threats and suspend your nuclear moments of history come suddenly and alive, and I tell you that America kept program. without warning, and the task of lead- faith in the future alive for all the Past Prime Ministers have traveled ership then is to define them, to shape world. to this Capitol Building in the times of them, and to move forward into the And let me do a tribute to the sol- war to talk of war. I come now to talk new world they demand. diers, yours and ours, who today fight of new and different battles we must An economic hurricane has swept the side by side in the plains of Afghani- also fight together, to speak of a global world, creating a crisis of credit and a stan, the streets of Iraq, just as their economy in crisis and a planet imper- crisis of confidence. History has forefathers fought side by side in the iled. brought us now to a point where sands of Tunisia, the beaches of Nor- These are new priorities for our new change is essential, and we are sum- mandy, and then on the bridges over times, and let us be honest. Tonight moned not just to manage our times the Rhine. too many parents, after they put their but to transform them. Almost every family in Britain has a children to bed, will speak of their wor- Our task is to rebuild prosperity and tie that binds them to America. So I ries about losing their jobs or the need security in a wholly different economic want you to know that whenever a to sell the house. Too many will share world, where competition is no longer young American soldier or marine or stories of friends or neighbors already just local, but it’s global; and where sailor or airman is killed in conflict, packing up their homes. Too many will banks are no longer national, but anywhere in the world, we the people of talk of a local store or business that they’re international. And we need to Britain grieve with you. We know that has already gone to the wall. understand, therefore, what went your loss is our loss, your family’s sor- For me, this global recession is not wrong in this crisis, that the very fi- row is our family’s sorrow, and your to be measured just in statistics or in nancial instruments that were designed Nation’s determination is our nation’s graphs or on a balance sheet. Instead, I to diversify risk across the banking determination that they shall not have see one individual with one set of system instead spread contagion right died in vain. dreams and fears, then another and across the globe. And today’s financial And after that terrible September then another, each with their own stars institutions, they’re so interwoven morning, when your homeland was at- to reach for, each part of a family, each that a bad bank anywhere is a threat tacked, the Coldstream Guards at at the heart of a community, now in to good banks everywhere. Buckingham Palace played the ‘‘Star need of help and hope. And when banks But should we succumb to a race to Spangled Banner,’’ our own British have failed and markets have faltered, the bottom and to a protectionism that tribute, as we wept for our friends in we the representatives of the people history tells us that in the end protects the land of the free and the home of the have to be the people’s last line of de- no one? No. We should have the con- brave. fense. fidence, America and Britain most of And let me, therefore, promise you That’s why for me there is no finan- all, that we can seize the global oppor- our continued support to ensure that cial orthodoxy so entrenched, there’s tunities ahead and make the future there is no hiding place for terrorists, no conventional thinking so ingrained, work for us. And why? Because while no safe haven for terrorism. You should there’s no special interest so strong today people are anxious and feel inse- be proud that in the years after 2001, that it should ever stand in the way of cure, over the next two decades, lit- that while terrorists may destroy the change that hardworking families erally billions of people in other con- buildings and even, tragically, lives, now need. tinents will move from being simply they have not, and will not ever, de- We have learned through this world producers of their goods to being con- stroy the American spirit. downturn that markets should be free, sumers of our goods, and in this way, So let it be said of the friendship be- but markets should never be values- the world economy will double in size. tween our two countries that it is in free. We have learned that the risks Twice as many opportunities for busi- times of trial, true; in the face of fear, people take should never be separated ness, twice as much prosperity, the big- faithful; and amidst the storms of from the responsibilities that they gest expansion of middle class incomes change, constant. must meet. And if perhaps some once and jobs the world has seen. And let it be said of our friendship thought it beyond our power to shape So we win our future not by retreat- also, formed and forged over two tu- the global markets to meet the needs ing from the world but by engaging multuous centuries, a friendship tested of the people, we now know that that is with it. America and Britain will suc- in war, strengthened in peace, that it our duty. We cannot and must not ceed and lead if we tap into the talents has not just endured but is renewed stand aside. of our people, unleash the genius of our each generation to better serve our In our families and workplaces and in scientists, set free the drive of our en- shared values and fulfill the hopes and our places of worship, we celebrate men trepreneurs. We will win the race to dreams of the day, not alliances of con- and women of integrity, who work the top if we can develop the new high- venience. It is a partnership of purpose. hard, treat people fairly, take responsi- value-added products and services and

VerDate Nov 24 2008 23:35 Mar 04, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.005 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2930 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 the new green goods that the rising So, once again, I say we should seize banks. Let us sign a world trade agree- numbers of hardworking families this moment because never before have ment to expand commerce. Let us work across our globe will want to buy. I seen a world willing to come together together also for a low carbon recov- So, in these unprecedented times, we so much. Never before has that been ery. And I am confident that this must educate our way out of a down- more needed and never before have the President, this Congress, and the peo- turn. We must invest and invent our benefits of cooperation been so far- ples of the world can come together in way out of a downturn. We must retool reaching. Copenhagen in December and reach a and reskill our way out of a downturn. So when people here and in other historic agreement to combat climate And this is not blind optimism or syn- countries ask what more can we do to change. thetic confidence to console people. It’s bring an end to this downturn, let me And let us never forget in times of a practical affirmation for our times of say this. We can achieve more by work- turmoil our duties to the least of these, a faith in a better future. ing together. And just think of what we the poorest of the world. In the Rwanda Every time we rebuild a school, we can do if we combine not just in a part- museum of genocide, there is a memo- demonstrate our faith in the future. nership for security but in a new part- rial to the countless children who were Every time we send more people to uni- nership for prosperity. among those murdered in the mas- versity, every time we invest more in On jobs, you the American people, sacres in Rwanda. There is one of the our new digital infrastructure, every through your stimulus proposals, could face of a child, David. The words be- time we increase support for our sci- create or save at least 3 million jobs. neath him are brief; yet, they weigh on entists, we demonstrate our faith in We in Britain are acting with similar me heavily. It says: Name, David. Age, the future. determination. But how much nearer 10. Favorite sport, football. Enjoyed And so I say to this Congress and this an end to this downturn would we all making people laugh. Dreamed to be- country, something that runs deep in be if the whole of the world resolved to your character and is woven in your come a doctor. Cause of death, tortured do the same? to death. Last words, ‘‘The United Na- history, we conquer our fear of the fu- And you are also restructuring your ture through our faith in the future, tions will come for us.’’ banks. So are we. But how much safer But we never did. That child believed and it is this faith in the future that would everybody’s savings be if the means we must commit to protecting the best of us. That he was wrong is to whole world finally came together to our eternal discredit. We tend to think the planet for generations who will outlaw shadow banking systems and come long after us. of a day of judgment as a moment to outlaw offshore tax havens? come, but our faith tells us, as the The Greek proverb, what does it say? So just think how each of our ac- Why does anybody plant the seeds of a writer said, that judgment is more tions, if combined, could mean a whole than that. It is a summary court in tree whose shade they will never see? much greater than the sum of its parts: The answer is because they look to the perpetual session. all, and not just some, banks sta- future. And I believe you, the Nation And when I visit those bare, run- bilized; on fiscal stimulus, the impact that had the vision to put a man on the down, yet teeming classrooms across multiplied because everybody is doing Moon, are also the Nation with the vi- Africa, they’re full of children, like our it; rising demand in all our countries sion to protect and preserve our planet children, desperate to learn, but be- creating jobs in each of our countries; Earth. cause we’ve been unable as a world to and trade once again the engine of And you know it’s only by investing keep our promises to help, more and prosperity, the wealth of nations rein environmental technology that we more children, I tell you, are being stored. can end the dictatorship of oil, and it’s lured to expensively funded madrassas, No one should forget it was American only by tackling climate change that teaching innocent children to hate us. we can create the millions of new green visionaries who over a half a century ago, coming out of the deepest of de- So for our security and our children’s jobs that we need and can have. security and these children’s future, For the lesson of this crisis is that pressions and the worst of wars, produced the boldest of plans for global you know the greatest gift of our gen- we cannot just wait for tomorrow eration, the greatest gift we could give today. We cannot just think of tomor- economic cooperation. They recognized that prosperity was indivisible. They to the world, the gift of America and row today. We cannot merely plan for Britain, could be that every child in tomorrow today. Our task must be to concluded that to be sustained it had to be shared. every country should have the chance build tomorrow today. 70 million children today do not have, And America knows from its history And I believe that ours, too, is a time for renewal, for a plan for tackling re- the chance to go to school, to spell that its reach goes far beyond its geog- their names, to count their age and raphy. For a century, you have carried cession and building for the future, perhaps learn of a great generation upon your shoulders the greatest of re- every continent playing their part in a who are striving to make their freedom sponsibility: to work with and for the global new deal, a plan for prosperity real. rest of the world. And let me tell you that can benefit us all. that now, more than ever, the rest of And first, so that the whole of the Let us remember that there is a com- the world wants to work with America. worldwide banking system serves our mon bond that across different beliefs, If these times have shown us any- prosperity rather than risks it, let us cultures, and nationalities unites us as thing it’s that the major challenges we agree at our G–20 summit in London in human beings. It is at the core of my face are global. No matter where it April on rules and standards for ac- convictions. It’s the essence of Amer- starts, an economic crisis does not stop countability, transparency, and reward ica’s spirit. It’s the heart of all our at the water’s edge. It ripples across that will mean an end to the excesses faiths. And it must be at the center of the world. Climate change does not and will apply to every bank, every- our response to this crisis, too. honor passport control. Terrorism has where, and all the time. Our values tell us we cannot be whol- no respect for borders. Modern commu- Second, America and a few others ly comfortable while others go without nication instantly spans every con- cannot be expected to bear all the bur- comfort; that our communities can tinent. The new frontier is that there den of the fiscal and interest rate stim- never be fully at ease if millions feel ill is no frontier, and the new shared truth ulus. We must share it globally. So let at ease; that our society cannot be is that global problems now need global us work together for the worldwide re- truly strong when millions are left so solutions. duction of interest rates and a scale of weak. And this much we know: when And let me say to you directly: you stimulus that is equal to the depth of the strong help the weak, it makes us now have the most pro-American Euro- the recession and round the world to all stronger. pean leadership in living memory. It’s the dimensions of recovery and, most And this, too, is true. All of us know a leadership that wants to cooperate of all, equal to the millions of jobs we that in a recession the wealthiest, the more closely together in order to co- must safeguard and create. most powerful, and the most privileged operate more closely with you. There is And third, let us together renew our can find a way through. So we don’t no old Europe, no new Europe. There is international economic cooperation, value the wealthy less when we say only our friend Europe. helping emerging markets rebuild their that our first duty is to help the not-

VerDate Nov 24 2008 23:35 Mar 04, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.006 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2931 so-wealthy. We don’t value the power- b 1245 When Alexis de Tocqueville wrote ful less when we say our first responsi- AFTER RECESS with praise for America, he cited our bility is to help the powerless. And we civic institutions, like churches and do not value those who are secure less The recess having expired, the House other nonprofit organizations, as the when we say our first priority must be was called to order by the Speaker pro basis for our strength in the Nation. to help the insecure. tempore (Mr. PASTOR of Arizona) at 12 The Obama administration is woefully These recent events have forced us o’clock and 45 minutes p.m. misguided if they think reducing the all to think anew, and while I have f tax credit for charitable donations will learned many things over these last PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS HAD help America. During an economic re- few months, I keep returning to some- DURING RECESS cession, our churches, charities, and thing I first learned in my father’s other community organizations that church as a child. In these most mod- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I ask assist many individuals quicker and ern of crises, I am drawn to the most unanimous consent that the pro- more effectively than government pro- ancient of truths. Wherever there is ceedings had during the recess be print- grams will be harmed. It’s a mistake to hardship, wherever there is suffering, ed in the RECORD. change our tax policy to reduce fund- we cannot, we will not, we will never The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ing to these organizations when their pass by on the other side. objection to the request of the gen- help is needed most in communities But you know, working together tleman from New Jersey? across America. There was no objection. there is no challenge to which we’re f not equal. There’s no obstacle we can’t f THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW FOR overcome. There’s no aspiration so HEALTH CARE—IT’S TIME FOR A HEALTH CARE high it cannot be achieved. CHANGE In the depths of the Depression, when (Ms. SCHAKOWSKY asked and was (Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia asked and Franklin Roosevelt did battle with fear given permission to address the House was given permission to address the itself, it was not simply by the power for 1 minute and to revise and extend House for 1 minute and to revise and of his words, his personality, and his her remarks.) extend his remarks.) example that he triumphed. Yes, all Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Last week, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Ladies and these things mattered, but what President Obama submitted a budget gentlemen of America, the American mattered more was this enduring that expresses his commitment to Recovery and Reinvestment Act pro- truth: that you, the American people, transforming health care in America. vides $20 billion to accelerate the adop- at your core, were, as you remain, Tomorrow, he will gather Members of tion of health information systems by every bit as optimistic as your Roo- Congress, consumers, business men and doctors and hospitals; these are elec- sevelts, your Reagans and your women, and health care providers at tronic medical records. This will mod- Obamas. the White House to discuss how to ernize health care in this country, it And this is the faith in the future achieve the common goals he laid out will save billions of dollars by reducing that has always been the story and in the budget, ‘‘constraining costs, ex- the need for duplicate diagnostic proce- promise of America. So, at this defin- panding access, and improving qual- dures, it will reduce medical errors and ing moment in history, let us renew ity.’’ improve the quality of services. This our special relationship for our genera- The economic crisis we face is not a will create or save hundreds of thou- tion and our times. Let us work to- cause for delay, it is an argument for sands of jobs, many in the high-tech gether to restore prosperity and pro- comprehensive reform. The need for ac- sectors, tens of billions of dollars in tect this planet, and with faith in the tion couldn’t be clearer. Every percent- system-wide savings, including a net future, let us together build tomorrow age increase in the unemployment rate reduction in private health insurance today. means another 1.1 million Americans premiums for families. Thank you. becomes uninsured. I want the public to know that it’s (Applause, the Members rising.) Over half of all Americans, many of time for change. Our health care sys- At 11 o’clock and 43 minutes a.m., them insured, are doing without med- tem should have been addressed many, the Right Honorable Gordon Brown, ical care because of high costs. Emer- many years ago, but under this new ad- Prime Minister of the United Kingdom gency rooms are being forced to turn ministration and under this Demo- of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, away patients, and businesses that cratic leadership of this fine body, we accompanied by the committee of es- cover their workers are struggling to are doing what needs to be done in cort, retired from the Hall of the House be competitive in the face of rising pre- order to put this country in a posture of Representatives. miums. it needs to be in for the new millen- We must assure that all Americans The Majority Floor Services Chief es- nium. corted the Acting Dean of the Diplo- are covered and give each a choice of a matic Corps from the Chamber. f public health insurance plan or private plan that provides comprehensive, af- TAX DEDUCTIONS fordable and high-quality care. The f (Mr. PITTS asked and was given per- time to act is now. mission to address the House for 1 f JOINT MEETING DISSOLVED minute and to revise and extend his re- THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE THE The SPEAKER. The purpose of the marks.) SOLUTION joint meeting having been completed, Mr. PITTS. Mr. Speaker, one of my the Chair declares the joint meeting of constituents, Gail, from Lititz, Penn- (Mr. CHAFFETZ asked and was given the two Houses now dissolved. sylvania, recently wrote to me about a permission to address the House for 1 Accordingly, at 11 o’clock and 49 provision in the President’s recently minute and to revise and extend his re- minutes a.m., the joint meeting of the released budget. She said, among other marks.) two Houses was dissolved. things, ‘‘God has blessed us abundantly Mr. CHAFFETZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise The Members of the Senate retired to in many ways; in turn, we have been with concern about the President’s their Chamber. able to bless others. We donate a very budget. large percentage of our income to the Now is not the time to be raising f hungry, homeless, orphaned and wid- taxes. We should not be raising rates, owed. We are in the top tax bracket. nor should we diminish the benefits for Any increase in our taxes or decrease people who are paying their mortgage ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER in our charitable deductions will not as they should be. As determined as the The SPEAKER. The House will con- hurt our standard of living, it will, in- Democrats are to raise taxes, you don’t tinue in recess subject to the call of deed, hurt the very people that the fuel the engines of economic growth by the Chair. government is trying to help.’’ penalizing those who are responsible,

VerDate Nov 24 2008 23:35 Mar 04, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.007 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2932 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 who do play by the rules, and who don’t on anyone that pays taxes. Tax in- SMALL BUSINESS—KEY TO GET- need a bailout. By reducing the tax re- crease will do several things. Small TING OUR ECONOMY BACK ON ductions for mortgage interest, the businesses that pay most of the taxes, TRACK Democrats are raising taxes, and they they will have a tax increase. So to pay (Mr. BUCHANAN asked and was are growing government while reducing for these new taxes, they’re going to given permission to address the House economic incentives for those who have have to cut jobs to pay for those taxes. for 1 minute.) resources to invest in a faltering econ- It raises the utility rates on people omy. that use energy. Now, that hurts those Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, unem- Further, at this time of need, now is folks, the working poor, who have a ployment in my home State of Florida not the time to reduce the benefits for fixed income, in essence, a tax increase and across the country continues to making charitable donations. Non- on the poor. It cuts deductions for rise. As the stock markets and retire- profit religious organizations and insti- home mortgages and charitable con- ment accounts fall, our national debt is tutions of higher education are also tributions; that, in essence, hurts peo- approaching $11 trillion. And just last struggling in this economy. The net re- ple who try to live in a home and con- week, Congress approved, over my ob- sult of the President’s budget is less tribute to charities. And the budget re- jections, a $410 billion spending bill money for donating to those worth- distributes wealth. that was 8 percent higher than last while causes. Abraham Lincoln said, ‘‘You don’t year, more than twice the rate of infla- We do have a choice: do you want to make the poor rich by making the rich tion. On top of all this new spending, keep your money and spend your poor and you don’t make the weak we now hear that the White House is money, or do you want the government strong by making the strong weak.’’ proposing nearly $1 trillion in new bureaucracy to tax and spend? I believe The budget is flawed with more gov- taxes. Now is not the time to be raising in the American people; it’s their ernment spending, more government taxes or embarking on a reckless money, not the government’s money. control, and it raises taxes. Taxes will spending free. Government is not the solution, the create less prosperity, not more pros- Rather than exploding the size of American people are the solution. perity. Federal Government, Congress should And that’s just the way it is. f be working to strengthen the backbone f of our economy with small businesses. CONGRATULATING THE 2008 STATE A TRIBUTE TO QUENTIN MEASE Seventy percent of all new jobs are cre- CHAMPION ELK LAKE WARRIORS (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked ated by small business, many of them (Mr. CARNEY asked and was given and was given permission to address in our area family owned. permission to address the House for 1 the House for 1 minute and to revise Let’s get our economy back on track minute and to revise and extend his re- and extend her remarks.) by helping to work with small busi- marks.) Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. nesses. That’s the legacy that we want Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to to leave our children and grand- today to honor the 2008 Pennsylvania a giant in our community in Houston, children. State championship boys cross-country Texas, that we lost just a few days ago. team, the Elk Lake Warriors. I am Quentin Mease was 100 years old, and f blessed to have five terrific kids, all of he lived that life vigorously and with whom attend Elk Lake, and my oldest great fulfillment. He was a servant of PASS THE HELPING FAMILIES three boys are all cross-country run- the people. No, he was not elected, but SAVE THEIR HOMES ACT ners. he was one of the founding members of The cross-country team’s victory is the National Urban League Houston (Mrs. CAPPS asked and was given remarkable for many reasons, it’s only chapter. He was a founding member of permission to address the House for 1 the third State championship that Elk what is now called the Harris County minute and to revise and extend her re- Lake has ever won. But what I found Hospital District. One of the satellite marks.) truly remarkable was their inspira- hospitals was named after Quentin Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, by now we tional path to victory. Not one runner Mease. all know what a central role the hous- on the team won an individual medal He was truly a giver, a philanthropic, ing market crisis has played in our eco- at the State meet, but working to- a person who believed that he was, in nomic troubles. The housing meltdown gether, they won the State title, an in- fact, our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper. is devastating for families and commu- credible lesson for us all. They each He lost his life, but he was full of life nities, particularly for innocent fami- gave it their all and demonstrated an when he passed. He will be recognized lies who have lived within their means incredible dedication to each other and on Thursday for a wake and Friday for and paid their mortgages on time. their team; they were victorious. a funeral. Through no fault of their own, their As we know, our Nation is facing in- I believe the words of the President home values are eroding and their life credible challenges right now. It is all of the United States in his African savings are threatened. That’s why we too easy to forget the simple value of American History Month that said, must pass the Helping Families Save pulling together and putting aside our ‘‘The ideals of the founders became Their Homes Act. It restores fairness differences in difficult times. I am con- more real and more true for every cit- to the bankruptcy system. fident that if we all heed the lessons of- izen of African American ancestry to fered by a small rural school in Penn- realize our full potential as a Nation, Current law allows loan modifica- sylvania, we will succeed. And once and to uphold those ideals for all who tions for vacation homes and yachts, again, my congratulations to the 2008 enter into our borders and embrace the yet prohibits them for primary resi- State champions, the Elk Lake War- notion that we all are endowed with dences. This bill will end this inequity. riors. certain inalienable rights.’’ It also fixes the Hope for Homeowners program to increase mortgage modi- f Quentin Mease, fallen in battle, believed that we were all endowed with fications and reduce foreclosures. It is MORE TAXES—LESS PROSPERITY certain inalienable rights. He gave his not about bailing out lenders or bor- (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was all. He wanted us all to be embraced rowers who made irresponsible deci- given permission to address the House under this bright and shining flag. He sions, it is, rather, finding fair and ef- for 1 minute.) believed in America. As an African fective solutions to stabilizing the Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, his- American, he is a giant, and I thank housing crisis and stabilizing the mar- tory shows that if you tax something, him for highlighting young people like ket. you get less of it; if you subsidize myself to give us an opportunity to go Mr. Speaker, this legislation is also something, you’re going to get more of forward into the future. needed to get our country back on it. Thank you, Mr. Mease. May God track. I urge my colleagues to vote for This budget raises taxes. We bless you. And may God bless you as a stronger economy and vote for this shouldn’t raise taxes during a recession you rest in peace. bill.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 23:35 Mar 04, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.009 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2933 PRESIDENT’S BUDGET PUTS IN- BUSINESS AS USUAL cused on the Title I provisions, the provisions FRASTRUCTURE AND AMERICA (Mr. FLAKE asked and was given in Title II will help thousands of homeowners AT GREAT RISK permission to address the House for 1 and enjoy broad support. Providing safe har- (Mr. FLEMING asked and was given minute.) bor for lenders willing to modify mortgages permission to address the House for 1 Mr. FLAKE. Mr. Speaker, later this and improving the HOPE for Homeowners minute.) week President Obama is expected to program are much-needed reforms that will Mr. FLEMING. Mr. Speaker, I re- sign the omnibus spending bill into help stem the tide of foreclosures and protect ceived a letter from the President of law. That bill contains nearly 9,000 ear- our neighborhoods. I would like to take a few the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association marks. Now, this is unfortunate. It moments to dispel some of the myths sur- expressing grave concern over the ad- sends a signal that we have ushered in rounding the legislation that could also be re- ministration’s budget proposal we were a new era of absolutely the same, busi- ferred to as the Neighborhood Protection Act. sent last week. Our Nation’s oil and ness as usual. Myth: This bill only benefits a small number gas industry is not made up of the five I would encourage the President, if of low income homeowners or homeowners or so Big Oil companies; instead, it is he is going to sign the omnibus bill, to who bought more house than they could af- several thousand independent oil and at least announce a change moving for- ford. natural gas producers. It is these com- ward. He could announce, for example, Fact: H.R. 1106 will actually help all home- panies that drill and produce the vast that he will not sign legislation in the owners by protecting their neighborhoods from majority of oil and natural gas pro- future that contains congressionally the negative effects of foreclosure. Every fore- duced here in the United States. directed no-bid contracts to private closure in a neighborhood brings down the The administration’s budget pro- companies. value of nearby homes, further eroding the eq- posals will strip the economic incen- He should encourage the Congress to uity of homeowners who are up to date on tives that provide the investment cap- end the appearance of pay-to-play when their mortgages. Furthermore, the foreclosure ital that is needed to explore and no-bid contracts are given to those who crisis has spread beyond victims of the sub- produce oil and gas for our country. give us campaign contributions. Giving prime crisis or individuals who purchased Without these incentives, exploration no-bid contracts to our campaign do- more home than they could afford. As Presi- and production of oil and natural gas nors should be beneath the dignity of dent Obama noted in his address to this body, will drastically decline, trillions of dol- this House. Now our leadership, both millions of middle-class families are just one lars will be lost, tens of thousands of on the Republican and the Democratic sickness or one layoff away from possible jobs will be lost, and our Nation’s en- side, has not recognized this yet, but I foreclosure. Without the ability to sell or refi- ergy security will be severely threat- hope that the President does. nance a home with a current value lower than the mortgage value, these families are out of ened. f In my home State of Louisiana, 25 options. percent of the Nation’s energy is pro- HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS Myth: The bill rewards bad behavior. Fact: H.R. 1106 requires homeowners to duced. We are the heartbeat of our Na- (Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia asked tion’s energy infrastructure. Simply negotiate with their lenders in good faith be- and was given permission to address fore they can even consider applying for a ju- put, the administration’s budget pro- the House for 1 minute and to revise posals will put that infrastructure and dicial modification of their home loan through and extend his remarks.) bankruptcy. And the bill prevents judges from our country at great risk and drive up Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. home utilities and gas at the pump. modifying loans for homeowners who have the Speaker, this week the House is sched- ability to make their payments or make other f uled to take up H.R. 1106, the Helping bad faith efforts to game the system. The spe- b 1300 Families Save Their Homes Act of 2009. cious argument that the bill rewards bad be- While much of the controversy over havior is being promoted by the banks, who VOTE ‘‘YES’’ ON HELPING FAMI- this bill is focused on the title I provi- LIES SAVE THEIR HOMES ACT themselves were rewarded for their bad be- sions, the provisions in title II will pro- havior by the previous Administration. After re- (Mrs. MALONEY asked and was given vide safe harbor for lenders willing to ceiving hundreds of billions of dollars in tax- permission to address the House for 1 modify mortgages and improve the payer bailouts, the banks should be the last to minute.) HOPE for Homeowners program. complain. This bill is designed to help families Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, there Allow me to dispel a few of the myths who have worked hard and played by the is unusually broad agreement on the surrounding this legislation. rules, but are trapped by declining property fact that to stop the downward spiral Myth: The bill only benefits a small values and escalating job losses. of this economy, we have to act on sev- number of homeowners. Myth: The bill enables homeowners to avoid eral fronts at once in a forceful and co- Fact: This bill will actually help all their financial responsibilities. ordinated manner. homeowners by protecting their neigh- Fact: H.R. 1106 allows judges to modify a We have addressed the need for job borhoods from the negative effects of mortgage only in those cases where it is truly creation and tax relief with the eco- foreclosure. Every foreclosure brings not affordable for the homeowner and even nomic recovery bill. We are addressing down the value of nearby homes, fur- then judges can only reduce the mortgage to the banking crisis and credit freeze ther eroding the equity of homeowners the fair market value of the property. Lenders with the second round of TARP funds who are up to date on their mortgages. are able to recoup the fair market value of the and the launching of the TALF pro- Millions of middle class families are house, plus interest, which is much better than gram. Now we have the chance to take just one sickness or one layoff away they usually secure in a foreclosure sale. action on a critically important front, from a possible foreclosure. Myth: The bill is a dramatic change in the stabilizing housing prices. All across Myth: The bill rewards bad behavior. bankruptcy code. the country, neighborhoods are strug- Fact: This bill requires homeowners Fact: H.R. 1106 equalizes bankruptcy rules gling as each foreclosed home reduces to negotiate with their lenders in good by treating residential bankruptcies the same the value of nearby properties. faith before they can even consider ap- as corporate, farm, and vacation home bank- The Helping Families Save Their plying for judicial modification of their ruptcies. H.R. 1106 will give struggling families Homes Act will give more tools to home loan through bankruptcy. or individuals the same right to modify the homeowners to stay in their homes and Myth: The bill is a dramatic change loans on their primary homes as wealthy in- allow judicial modifications of home in the Bankruptcy Code. vestors have to modify the loans on their sec- mortgages. It helps families facing Fact: This bill equalizes the rules by ond or third properties. foreclosure stay in their homes, thus treating residential bankruptcies the Myth: The bill will dramatically increase stabilizing lives, home prices, neigh- same as corporate, farm and vacation bankruptcies. borhoods and restoring confidence in home bankruptcies. Fact: Bankruptcy proceedings are unpleas- the economy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ant and scar one’s credit record for years. No I am confident that a ‘‘yes’’ vote on support this legislation. one looks forward to bankruptcy. And this bill this bill is in the best interests of our I’d like to remind my colleagues that while provides stringent conditions, with a series of American economy. much of the controversy over this bill has fo- interim steps and requirements, so bankruptcy

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.012 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2934 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 proceedings are only used as a last resort from renewable resources, use elec- individuals’’ to assist in making its rec- after exhausting all other options to save a tricity more efficiently, and create a ommendations; home. workforce for the 21st century. Whereas one of the groups representing the Myth: This bill is another bailout for the President Obama’s budget promotes victims, ‘‘Voices of September 11’’, testified before the 9/11 Commission; banks and will cost taxpayers tens of billions. the development of innovative clean Whereas Beverly Eckert was the widow of Fact: H.R. 1106 actually redirects existing energy technology, modernizes the Mr. Sean Rooney, who died in the September TARP funds from the banks to homeowners. It electric grid, and provides the capital 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade also will make sure the TARP funds are spent to double renewable energy generating Center and following her husband’s death, on economic recovery and neighborhood sta- capacity. With these investments we Beverly Eckert co-founded ‘‘Voices of Sep- bilization rather than salted away in some will change the way our country gen- tember 11’’, an advocacy group for survivors bank vault or paid to bank shareholders as erates, uses and delivers energy. We and 9/11 families; dividends. This bill does exactly what the will produce jobs throughout the Whereas Beverly Eckert was instrumental in the development and growth of this im- American people have asked for; it helps United States and begin to end our de- portant advocacy group, which now claims homeowners rather than banks and big busi- pendence on foreign oil. more than 5,500 members; ness. America’s prosperity depends on bold Whereas Beverly Eckert worked admirably Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1106 is not a perfect bill, action and investments in research and with the 110th Congress and was a key pro- but it is one more piece in the mosaic of posi- development, on our ability to adapt ponent in the final passage of the ‘‘Imple- tive efforts we are making to turn our economy through innovation and on creating menting the 9/11 Commission Recommenda- around. It is good for homeowners. It is good green jobs that will build a foundation tions Act of 2007’’ as the legislation to effec- for the future stability of our neighborhoods. It for a clean energy economy. tuate the recommendations of the 9/11 Com- mission to prevent, prepare, and respond to is good for our nation’s economy. f acts of terrorism; and That is why I ask my colleagues to join me ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Whereas the United States will forever be later today in supporting H.R. 1106. PRO TEMPORE grateful for the services of Beverly Eckert f and mourn her loss: Now, therefore, be it The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- WHERE IS THE OBAMA Resolved, That the House of Representa- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair tives— ADMINISTRATION ON SUDAN? will postpone further proceedings (1) acknowledges Beverly Eckert’s service (Mr. WOLF asked and was given per- today on motions to suspend the rules to the Nation and particularly to the sur- mission to address the House for 1 on which a recorded vote or the yeas vivors and families of the September 11, 2001, minute and to revise and extend his re- and nays are ordered, or on which the attacks; marks.) (2) recognizes Beverly Eckert’s work to vote is objected to under clause 6 of help bring about implementation of the 9/11 Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, today the rule XX. Commission recommendations to prepare, International Criminal Court issued an Record votes on postponed questions prevent, and respond to acts of terrorism; arrest warrant for Sudan’s President will be taken later. and Bashir, charging him with seven counts f (3) extends its deepest condolences to the of war crimes and crimes against hu- family of Beverly Eckert and the families of manity. This is the first time the court RECOGNIZING BEVERLY ECKERT all those who lost their lives due to the crash has accused a sitting head of state of FOR 9/11 VICTIMS WORK of Continental Connection Flight 3407. war crimes. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I move The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The world knows what’s happening in to suspend the rules and agree to the ant to the rule, the gentleman from Sudan and Darfur, and yet the Obama resolution (H. Res. 201) recognizing New Jersey (Mr. PASCRELL) and the administration has failed to appoint a Beverly Eckert’s service to the Nation gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- special envoy. I have asked him to ap- and particularly to the survivors and RAKIS) each will control 20 minutes. point a former Senator, Bill Frist from families of the September 11, 2001, at- The Chair recognizes the gentleman Tennessee, who can start today. The tacks. from New Jersey. tribunal spokesman said the crimes in- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- GENERAL LEAVE tion. cluded, and I quote, ‘‘murdering, exter- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask The text of the resolution is as fol- minating, raping, torturing and forc- unanimous consent that all Members lows: ibly transferring large numbers of ci- have 5 legislative days in which to re- vilians and the pillaging of their prop- H. RES. 201 vise and extend their remarks and in- erty.’’ Whereas on the morning of September 11, sert extraneous material on the resolu- According to the U.N., an estimated 2001, terrorists hijacked and destroyed four tion under consideration. 300,000 have been killed since the civilian aircraft, crashing two of them into The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Darfur conflict began and 2.7 million the towers of the World Trade Center in New objection to the request of the gen- displaced. And yet the Obama adminis- York City and a third into the Pentagon out- tleman from New Jersey? tration has failed to appoint a special side Washington, DC; Whereas the passengers and crew aboard envoy. As recently as just yesterday, There was no objection. United Flight 93 acted heroically to prevent Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise the AP reported that in recent weeks the terrorist hijackers from taking addi- 26,000 people have fled their homes in in support of this resolution and yield tional American lives, by crashing the plane myself such time as I may consume. Darfur and flooded Zamzam refugee in Shanksville, Pennsylvania and sacrificing camps, already at 50,000. their own lives instead; I rise in support of H. Res. 201, which I close by saying time is short. The Whereas thousands of innocent men, recognizes Beverly Eckert’s service to killing and the devastation goes on. women, and children were brutally murdered the United States of America, particu- The administration must act. This can- in the attacks of September 11, 2001; larly the survivors and the families of Whereas pursuant to Public Law 107–306, not wait. the attack on September 11, 2001. the 9/11 Commission was formed to ascertain, Ms. Eckert was the widow of Mr. f evaluate, and report on the evidence regarding the terrorist attacks; Sean Rooney, who was killed in the INNOVATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN A World Trade Center on September 11. HALLMARK OF AMERICAN SUC- Whereas the 9/11 Commission was also required in Public Law 107–306 to make a full For many, the devastating loss of a CESS and complete accounting of the cir- partner, of a husband, would lead to a (Mr. LUJA´ N asked and was given per- cumstances surrounding the terrorist at- state of grief, anger, fear, paralysis. mission to address the House for 1 tacks, report on the United States’ prepared- But Beverly Eckert turned the Sep- minute and to revise and extend his re- ness for, and immediate response to, ter- tember 11 attacks into a clarion call of marks.) rorist attacks, and make findings, conclu- government accountability and trans- ´ sions, and recommendations for corrective Mr. LUJAN. Mr. Speaker, innovation measures that could be taken to prevent, parency, Mr. Speaker. When there were has always been a hallmark of Amer- prepare, and respond to acts of terrorism; questions about what led to the at- ican success. Innovation will transform Whereas the 9/11 Commission stated in its tacks, Beverly Eckert demanded an- the way we generate and store power report that it ‘‘interviewed more than 1,200 swers.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.002 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2935 When some tried to dismiss her call birthday and launch a scholarship in Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support for answers, she pressed on and co- his memory. We lost an inspiring and of the resolution honoring Beverly founded the ‘‘Voices of September 11,’’ tenacious champion in Beverly, and we Eckert, who died in a plane crash in an advocacy group for survivors which must continue to honor her memory Buffalo going to honor the memory of now claims more than 5,500 members. and accomplishments. her husband on his 58th birthday. This led to the creation of the Na- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The She told me the last time she spoke tional Commission on Terrorist At- time of the gentlewoman has expired. to him, he was in the burning towers tacks upon the United States—or the Mr. PASCRELL. I yield the gentle- and the fire was coming towards him. 9/11 Commission—and we all remember lady an additional 30 seconds. She was devoted to him. It broke her that commission led by former Con- Ms. SLAUGHTER. We must continue heart. But it did not break her spirit. gressman Lee Hamilton and, of course, to honor her memory and accomplish- She dedicated her life to making sure Governor Tom Kean of New Jersey. ments while carrying on her mission. that other families did not suffer the Beverly Eckert did not stop there. She Today we consider a resolution to ac- same type of loss that she did by not attended the 9/11 Commission hearings knowledge her service on behalf of the protecting our citizens, by putting in and was there when the 9/11 Commis- survivors and to recognize her work to place strong homeland security laws. sion published its findings and rec- help protect our Nation. As the co-Chair of the 9/11 Family ommendations. The resolution also extends condo- Steering Committee, and I was the Mr. Speaker, I want to allow, because lences to the families of all those who founder and Chair of the 9/11 Commis- of time factors with some of the Mem- were lost on the Continental Connec- sion Caucus, we worked almost daily, bers, two young ladies who are Mem- tion flight. first to support the creation of the 9/11 bers of this great body, who are always I urge my colleagues to support the Commission; then to fund it, to give it there first to recognize and sensitive to resolution to honor the life of Beverly subpoena power, to give it time to do those people, the real heroes of Amer- Eckert, commemorating her valuable its work. And when they came back ica. service to the 9/11 survivors and fami- with a report that had 47 recommenda- I yield 2 minutes first to Ms. SLAUGH- lies in this country. tions to make Americans safer, she TER from the State of New York. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield then dedicated her life to imple- Ms. SLAUGHTER. I thank both gen- myself as much time as I may con- menting them into law. I was one of tlemen for the time. sume. the authors of the first bill that reor- As a New Yorker, obviously the Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my ganized our intelligence, the first events of September 11, 2001, are really colleagues in honoring Ms. Beverly major intelligence reorganization since seared in our memory, as I am sure Eckert. 1948, to share information so that we Ms. Eckert lost her husband, Sean they are in the memory of all Ameri- could better prevent another attack. Rooney, on September 11, 2001. Since cans. And then H.R. 1, which rolled all the then, Ms. Eckert has been a tireless ad- On February 12, this year, 2009, the other recommendations to make Amer- vocate for the families and survivors of Nation was shocked and saddened by ica safer into the bill, H.R. 1, the first these September 11 attacks. She is the the devastating plane accident in Clar- bill that the Democratic leadership cofounder of the nonprofit foundation ence, New York, a few miles outside of passed in the last Congress, this passed Voices of September 11, which cur- Buffalo. Our thoughts and prayers will with Beverly’s leadership and support. rently has more than 5,500 members. always be with the family and friends She worked out of my office for 4 Ms. Eckert lobbied for the establish- who lost loved ones on Continental years. She would lead vigils in front of ment of the 9/11 Commission, passage Connection Flight 3407. the White House. She was at 9/11 con- of the Intelligence Reform and Ter- Today, we are here to recognize one stantly raising the need and the impor- rorism Prevention Act, establishment of the persons on that plane, Beverly tance to pass this important legisla- of the WMD Commission, and the de- Eckert, who also lost her life on that tion. She was a spirit. She was a lead- velopment of a memorial to the vic- day. We thank her for her tremendous er. She was one of the finest people I tims of the September 11 attacks at service to our Nation and particularly have ever met. And many, many people Ground Zero. to the survivors and families of the owe a great deal of gratitude for a safer September 11, 2001, attacks. Ms. Eckert was a passenger on Conti- nental Flight 3407, which crashed on America because of her work. Mr. Speaker, Beverly Eckert, as men- Mr. BILIRAKIS. I urge my colleagues February 12, 2009, near Buffalo, New tioned, was the widow of Sean Rooney, to support this resolution. York. Ms. Eckert, who grew up in Buf- who died in the September 11 attacks Mr. Speaker, I have no further re- falo, was returning to her hometown to on the World Trade Center and had quests for time, and I yield back the honor her husband on his 58th birthday been among the most visible faces of balance of my time. the victims’ families in the aftermath and establish a scholarship in his Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield of the attacks. Following her husband’s name. myself such time as I may consume. Ms. Eckert is survived by her three death, she cofounded Voices of Sep- Instead of letting leaders in Wash- sisters, seven nephews and her one tember 11, one of the first advocacy ington pat themselves on the back for niece. My heart goes out to her family groups for the survivors of 9/11 and the 9/11 Commission, which we are apt and friends. I hope they can take com- families. to do, Beverly Eckert insisted on the Beverly was instrumental in the de- fort in the fact that Ms. Eckert has implementation of the Commission’s velopment and growth of this impor- been reunited with her husband. recommendations. When Ms. Eckert I honor Ms. Eckert and all those who tant group, which is now supported by was told that the recommendations lost their lives as a result of the tragic more than 5,500 members. Along with would be difficult to implement, she crash of Continental Flight 3407. other members of the Voices of Sep- I urge Members to support this reso- was not deterred. Where she saw there tember 11, she testified before the 9/11 lution. were problems, she demanded and Commission to help report on the Sep- I reserve the balance of my time. worked tirelessly for solutions. She tember 11 terrorist attacks. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield traveled to Washington and pushed for Beverly worked with the 110th Con- 2 minutes to the gentlelady from New the passage of the implementation of gress tirelessly, and she was a key pro- York (Mrs. MALONEY). the recommendations of the 9/11 Com- ponent in enacting the 9/11 Commis- mission Act, as Mrs. MALONEY and Ms. sion’s recommendations to prevent, b 1315 SLAUGHTER pointed out. prepare and respond to acts of ter- Mrs. MALONEY. I thank the gen- To sum up, Beverly Eckert was a te- rorism. Simply put, Beverly’s work tleman for yielding and for his con- nacious citizen who nudged and prod- helped to make our Nation safer and stant leadership and support for the ded the leaders of this Nation to look more secure. 9/11 families and for the reforms to at their mistakes and implement the Beverly was a passenger on Flight make our country safer and to my good steps to correct them. Ms. Eckert was 3407 on her way to Buffalo to mark friend and colleague LOUISE SLAUGH- not interested in partisanship, fear- what would have been her husband’s TER, who authored this resolution. mongering or saber rattling. Beverly

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.015 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2936 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 Eckert was a woman who made sure the September 11 terrorist attack on the World our Nation’s efforts to prevent, prepare for, that the death of her husband and Trade Center, was an impressive activist and protect against, respond to, and mitigate those who died on September 11 would will be missed, both for her outspoken work on against threats to the homeland, including not be in vain. In that process she acts of terrorism, natural disasters, and behalf of 9/11 victims and by those who knew other emergencies; taught us all why we should not give and love her. Whereas the Department of Homeland Se- into the fear of terrorism. After her husband died on September 11th, curity marks its sixth year of full-scale oper- I urge all my colleagues to support Beverly co-founded Voices of September 11, a ations on March 1, 2009; this resolution. group that serves those affected by the at- Whereas more than 223,000 employees of Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, tacks and advocates for effective response to the Department of Homeland Security work I rise today in support of this resolution hon- terrorism. diligently to deter, detect, and prevent acts oring, Beverly Eckert, a great American. As a In the days, weeks and years after the 9/11 of terrorism and stand ready to respond to a 9/11 widow, Beverly Eckert rose above a attacks, Beverly was a tireless advocate for terrorist attack, natural disaster, or other emergency; daunting challenge. America has asked her to the victims’ families. She spearheaded pro- not only overcome her grief over losing her Whereas the employees of the Department tests that led politicians to set aside more land of Homeland Security are dedicated individ- husband, but to take on a leading role as a for a memorial at Ground Zero, fought to en- uals who rarely receive the recognition they advocate for other victims. sure federal authorities would thoroughly deserve; Beverly Eckert, who died on February 12 in probe the cause of the twin towers’ collapse, Whereas the employees of the Department the crash of Continental Connection Flight and spoke eloquently again and again about of Homeland Security work tirelessly to pro- 3407 in Clarence Center, N.Y., was co-found- her husband, Sean Rooney, and the many tect our Nation, frequently working long er of Voices of September 11, a group rep- others who died that day. hours and sacrificing time with their loved ones; resenting the victims of the September 11 ter- As a member of the Family Steering Com- rorist attacks. Her husband, Sean Rooney, Whereas the employees of the Department mittee, a group of relatives of victims of 9/11, of Homeland Security support the Depart- died in the World Trade Center. Under Eck- Eckert helped to spearhead the public fight for ert’s leadership, Voices of September 11 grew ment’s mission to secure the borders, protect a 9/11 Commission to investigate the attacks. critical infrastructure, share information, into an influential advocacy group of more Throughout the years, Beverly remained ac- facilitate safe and lawful travel and trade, than 5,500 members. Eckert supported the tive in the fight against terrorism. This winter and work with States and localities to en- work of the 9/11 Commission and urged Con- she met with President Obama at the White hance preparedness; gress to adopt its recommendations. Less House along with other relatives of those killed Whereas the employees of the Department than a week before her death, she met with of Homeland Security deserve the best in on 9/11 and in the bombing of the USS Cole President Barack Obama at the White House training and resources to accomplish their to discuss how the new administration would with other terrorist victims’ families to discuss vital mission; handle terror suspects. changes in the government’s handling of terror Whereas the United States has not been at- Beverly’s activism should remind all of us suspects. tacked since September 11, 2001, and this is As a member of the House Committee on what the actions of one person can do. While due in large part to the dedicated service of she did not work alone, we all have her to the employees of the Department of Home- Homeland Security and the Chair of the Sub- land Security; and committee on Transportation and Infrastruc- thank for making us safer today. Her patriotism should be admired and her citizenship Whereas the Nation owes a debt of grati- ture I am well aware of the importance of tude to the employees of the Department of keeping the memory of September 11, 2001 at should serve as a model for us all. Homeland Security for their continued and Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have the forefront of our conscious. steadfast efforts to secure the homeland: This resolution honors Beverly Eckert for no further requests for time, and I Now, therefore, be it her service on behalf of September 11 victims yield back the balance of my time. Resolved, That the House of Representa- and their families and recognizes her work to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tives recognizes and honors the employees of bring about the implementation of the 9/11 question is on the motion offered by the Department of Homeland Security on its the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. sixth anniversary for their continuous ef- Commission recommendations to prevent and forts to keep the Nation safe. respond to acts of terrorism. It extends condo- PASCRELL) that the House suspend the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- lences to Eckert’s family and the families of all rules and agree to the resolution, H. ant to the rule, the gentleman from those who lost their lives in the Continental Res. 201. Pennsylvania (Mr. CARNEY) and the Connection Flight 3407 crash. The question was taken. Certainly the irony of Beverly Eckert dying in The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the gentleman from Florida (Mr. BILI- a plane crash that appears to be weather-re- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being RAKIS) each will control 20 minutes. lated is not lost on us. That does not diminish in the affirmative, the ayes have it. The Chair recognizes the gentleman the breadth of her work over the last eight Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on from Pennsylvania. years. It is fitting that Beverly was greeted at that I demand the yeas and nays. GENERAL LEAVE the White House by President Obama just a The yeas and nays were ordered. Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask week before she perished. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- unanimous consent that all Members It is my hope Mr. Speaker that we continue ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the have 5 legislative days in which to re- to honor Beverly Eckert and the other victims Chair’s prior announcement, further vise and extend their remarks and in- of Continental Connection Flight 3407 and the proceedings on this motion will be sert extraneous material on the resolu- terrorist attacks of 9/11 by energizing our pur- postponed. tion under consideration. suit of the terrorists who hurt our nation. We f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gen- can do this by bringing to justice the perpetra- RECOGNIZING THE HOMELAND SE- tors of those attacks and the forces behind tleman from Pennsylvania? CURITY DEPARTMENT ON ITS There was no objection. them. SIXTH ANNIVERSARY Mr. Speaker, I am thankful for the oppor- Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield tunity to speak to our nation at this poignant Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I move to myself such time as I may consume. time but also a moment where we can be re- suspend the rules and agree to the reso- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support minded of the arduous task that this new ad- lution (H. Res. 195) recognizing and House Resolution 195, a measure to ministration faces in pursuit of terrorists and honoring the employees of the Depart- honor the employees of the Depart- seeking to raise our profile as a nation of ment of Homeland Security on its sixth ment of Homeland Security and to peace. We can be a leader in the fight against anniversary for their continuous ef- mark the sixth anniversary of the De- terrorism and still saving the world. We can forts to keep the Nation safe. partment’s creation. only hope that Sean Rooney and Beverly are The Clerk read the title of the resolu- The Department of Homeland Secu- reunited in heaven. tion. rity was tasked with the Herculean re- Mr. HIMES. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a The text of the resolution is as fol- sponsibility of coordinating with State, constituent and citizen activist, Beverly Eckert lows: local, and tribal entities to prevent fu- who lost her life in the tragic crash of flight H. RES. 195 ture terrorist attacks, secure our bor- 3407 just a few weeks ago. Whereas the Department of Homeland Se- ders, and to prepare for and respond to In addition to being a beloved sister, aunt, curity was created as a result of the terrorist events of national significance. Com- and friend, Beverly, who lost her husband in attacks of September 11, 2001, to consolidate prised of 22 different Federal agencies

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:31 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.017 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2937 and employing over 223,000 of our finest since September 11, 2001, is due to their agency that is charged with not only protecting Federal employees, DHS quickly be- tireless efforts. They work long hours, us from terrorism, but also protecting us from came one of the largest Federal depart- often sacrificing time with their loved dangerous goods, emerging threats, and co- ments. ones, to get the job done. ordinating response to catastrophic incidents. Twenty-four hours a day, 7 days a In 2006 the Department of Homeland Despite a host of challenges and repeated week, 365 days a year, employees of the Security ranked nearly last in the Of- internal reorganization, the Department’s em- Department of Homeland Security are fice of Personnel Management’s Fed- ployees have worked tirelessly to ensure con- working to prevent and prepare for any eral Human Capital Survey, showing tinued security for all Americans. Their dedica- threat to our country. At this very mo- overwhelming employee dissatisfaction tion in the face of frequent internal adversity is ment they are patrolling our skies, se- and low morale. Since that time the to be commended. curing our borders, sailing our coastal department, under former Secretary The Department’s employee workforce rep- waters, and screening people and cargo Chertoff’s leadership, has worked to ad- resents hundreds of occupations, from sci- entering our country. They are also dress these issues, and I’m pleased to entists to emergency managers to border pa- collaborating, cooperating, and coordi- report their efforts are paying off. trol agents to economists. And, although the nating with State, local, and tribal The Office of Personnel Management make-up of the Department is diverse and em- governments and first responders in all recently released the results of the 2008 ployee responsibilities are plentiful, all of its 50 States and our territories to ensure Federal Human Capital Survey, and employees are united in carrying out the De- we can respond to any future large- the department showed improvement partment’s mission to protect the American scale events either man-made or nat- in nearly every category of the survey, people, reduce the risk of terrorist attacks, and enhance the Nation’s preparedness and re- ural. These dedicated Homeland Secu- ranking in the top five of most improvement among Federal agencies. sponse capabilities. rity employees are working tirelessly I pledge to them, that I will continue to work The largest increase came in the job to improve the safety for all Americans to ensure that employees have the necessary and are doing a commendable job. satisfaction indices, evidencing a resources and training to do their jobs. These Department of Homeland Security much-needed increase in employee mo- dedicated individuals should also be afforded employees stand willing, ready, and rale. with full protections and rights that are given able to respond should catastrophe This is great news, but more work to other employees in the federal government. strike. They work long hours to deter, needs to be done, Mr. Speaker. The de- As the Chairman of the Homeland Security detect, and prevent acts of terrorism partment will now use the results of Committee, I have repeatedly challenged the against the homeland. They can be this survey to further improve working Department’s senior leaders to make the De- sure that Congress will continue to conditions at the department and with- partment a top-notch agency. I believe that the conduct vigorous oversight of manage- in its components. As the ranking Department’s workforce cannot be taken for ment at DHS, but I cannot stress how member of the Subcommittee on Man- granted. much we truly appreciate the work of agement, Investigations, and Over- With the change in leadership at DHS, there the dedicated DHS employees working sight, I look forward to working with is a real opportunity to improve morale by in- to protect the safety of all Americans. the department and Chairman CARNEY vesting in the men and women that help keep My thanks to Congressman BILIRAKIS to address the concerns of the employ- the nation secure. I look forward to working for introducing the resolution and to ees, improve morale, and foster a ‘‘one with Secretary Napolitano and the rest of the the Speaker for the time on the floor DHS’’ culture, so very important. The Department’s leadership to make sure that today. I encourage my colleagues to department’s employees deserve noth- they get the training, resources, and support support House Resolution 195 as we ing less, in my opinion. that they need. honor the employees of the Depart- Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to I urge my colleagues to support the resolu- ment of Homeland Security. join me in honoring the hardworking tion and thank the men and women who make Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of men and women of the Department of up the Department of Homeland Security for my time. Homeland Security by supporting this their constant vigilance and commitment. Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield resolution. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance I want to thank you for an opportunity to speak Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor of my time. on an important anniversary. As we honor the the men and women of the Department Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Department of Homeland Security we also of Homeland Security who work dili- myself such time as I may consume. take the time to salute the nearly 223,000 em- gently to secure our Nation. As you have heard, Mr. BILIRAKIS and ployees who make up the agencies staff. I re- I’m proud to introduce this resolu- I discussed the Department of Home- cently had the pleasure of meeting the new tion with Congressman CHRIS CARNEY, land Security and the importance of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Se- chairman of the Subcommittee on the employees and the incredible tal- curity, Janet Napolitano and made sure to Management, Investigations, and Over- ents that they represent in protecting mention how proud I am of her staff. sight, on which I serve as ranking us 24/7/365. It’s actually the most im- Congress created the Homeland Security member. portant job we have in this country Department as a result of the tragic events of September 11, consolidating the nation’s ef- Chairman CARNEY, I look forward to right now. They are keeping the bor- forts to prevent, prepare for, protect against, working with you this Congress, and I ders safe. They are making sure we are respond to, and mitigate threats to the home- think our subcommittee is getting off not attacked, and they have prevented land. On March 1, 2003, the Homeland Secu- to a great start by having this resolu- the attacks since 9/11. That in com- rity Department united 22 agencies, and 2009 tion on the floor today. bination with our support will make marks its sixth year of full-scale operations. I also want to thank Chairman them the finest domestic force that we As a member of the House Committee on THOMPSON, Ranking Member KING, and have. Homeland Security and the Chair of the Sub- the other members of the Committee I encourage every Member of this committee on Transportation and Infrastruc- on Homeland Security who joined as body to vote for H. Res. 195. ture I am well aware of the sacrifice and dili- cosponsors of my resolution. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- gence of the more than 223,000 Homeland My district is home to many of the er, I rise today in support of House Resolution Security employees who work in the depart- department’s employees, including 195. ment. This resolution recognizes and honors Transportation Security officers, Cus- As Chairman of the Committee on Home- the employees of the Homeland Security De- toms and Border Protection officers, land Security, it is an honor for me to join Mr. partment on its sixth anniversary for their con- Immigration and Customs Enforcement BILIRAKIS in recognizing the employees of the tinuous efforts to keep the nation safe. agents, and Coast Guardsmen. I thank Department of Homeland Security on the sixth Our nation has remained safe since the ter- them for the work they do day in and anniversary of the Department’s inception. rorist attacks thanks to the hard work, fas- day out to ensure that Florida, and our Since its creation, the Department’s mission tidious attention to detail and dedication of the Nation, is secure. has continued to grow and evolve. While the many employees of this Department. These employees often do not receive initial impetus for the Department’s creation The day-to-day tedium that the profes- the recognition they deserve. The fact was the horrific terrorist attacks of September sionals at the Department of Homeland Secu- that our Nation has not been attacked 11th, the Department has since grown into an rity only serve to underscore how vital they

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:31 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.019 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2938 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 are as a protective force. Mr. Speaker, they The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Whereas the goals of Multiple Sclerosis truly are on the frontlines, at our nation’s busi- question is on the motion offered by Awareness Week are to invite people to join est ports. They are the people who make sure the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. the movement to end multiple sclerosis, encourage everyone to do something to dem- CARNEY) that the House suspend the that our children can walk home from that little onstrate their commitment to moving to- red schoolhouse; they are the people who rules and agree to the resolution, H. ward a world free of multiple sclerosis, and allow us to exercise our constitutional right to Res. 195. to acknowledge those who have dedicated travel freely and associate with whom we like; The question was taken. their time and talent to help promote mul- they are the people who allow us to proclaim The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the tiple sclerosis research and programs; and loudly that ‘‘I have the right to free speech,’’ to opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Whereas this year Multiple Sclerosis essentially be American. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Awareness Week is recognized during the I would also be remiss if I did not take note Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on week of March 2, 2009 through March 8, 2009: of some of the tasks that the department faces that I demand the yeas and nays. Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the this year onward. The Department of Home- The yeas and nays were ordered. Senate concurring), That Congress— land Security is an integral part of the plan to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (1) supports the goals and ideals of Mul- increase usage of safer and more efficient ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the tiple Sclerosis Awareness Week; mass transit. We must utilize our federal dol- Chair’s prior announcement, further (2) encourages the President to issue a lars to improve our rail and over-the-road bus proceedings on this motion will be proclamation in support of the goals and systems. We must work to ensure safe pack- postponed. ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week; (3) encourages States, territories, posses- age by training workers to be the best they f can and to continue to take pride in their work. sions of the United States, and localities to SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND support the goals and ideals of Multiple Scle- These improvements must be modernized to IDEALS OF MULTIPLE SCLE- rosis Awareness Week by issuing proclama- be the best security and safety systems. ROSIS AWARENESS WEEK tions designating Multiple Sclerosis Aware- The Transportation Worker Identification ness Week; Credential or TWIC program must be updated Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I move to (4) encourages media organizations to par- to allow for seamless processing for our work- suspend the rules and agree to the con- ticipate in Multiple Sclerosis Awareness ers most of whom depend on their jobs to current resolution (H. Con. Res. 14) Week and help educate the public about mul- feed their families. Border and Maritime secu- supporting the goals and ideals of Mul- tiple sclerosis; rity is the absolute beginning of what it means tiple Sclerosis Awareness Week. (5) commends the efforts of the States, ter- to be a safe country. The Clerk read the title of the con- ritories, and possessions of the United States current resolution. who support the goals and ideals of Multiple Transportation Security Administration or Sclerosis Awareness Week; TSA workers must continue to be better The text of the concurrent resolution (6) recognizes and reaffirms our Nation’s trained because they are on the frontlines of is as follows: commitment to combating multiple sclerosis our nation’s airport security. These workers H. CON. RES. 14 by promoting awareness about its causes and must also be afforded the opportunity to have Whereas multiple sclerosis can impact men risks and by promoting new education pro- collective bargaining rights if they chose and and women of all ages, races, and ethnicities; grams, supporting research, and expanding the ability to report fraud, corruption and Whereas more than 400,000 Americans live access to medical treatment; and wrongdoing. That is the essence of the whis- with multiple sclerosis; (7) recognizes all people in the United Whereas approximately 2,500,000 people States living with multiple sclerosis, ex- tleblower protections which we just voted to in- presses gratitude to their family members clude in H.R. 1 that I fought for and will con- worldwide have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; and friends who are a source of love and en- tinue to press, and yes, even in a Democratic Whereas every hour of every day, someone couragement to them, and salutes the health administration. Mr. Speaker, these are just a is newly diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; care professionals and medical researchers few of the laundry list of items that Secretary Whereas it is estimated that between 8,000 who provide assistance to those so afflicted Napolitano and her staff will tackle in the com- and 10,000 children and adolescents are living and continue to work to find cures and im- ing months and years. I am confident though with multiple sclerosis; prove treatments. that they are up to the task of making the De- Whereas the exact cause of multiple scle- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- partment of Homeland Security an even better rosis is still unknown; ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from federal agency. Whereas the symptoms of multiple scle- California (Mrs. CAPPS) and the gen- rosis are unpredictable and vary from person Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to de- tleman from Georgia (Mr. GINGREY) to person; clare my support for the employees of the De- Whereas there is no diagnostic laboratory each will control 20 minutes. partment of Homeland Security (DHS) and to test available for multiple sclerosis; The Chair recognizes the gentle- thank them for their important service to our Whereas multiple sclerosis is not genetic, woman from California. country. I recognize that their tireless work contagious, or directly inherited, but studies b 1330 and dedication often keep them from their show there are genetic factors that indicate families and loved ones. Accordingly I wish to certain individuals are susceptible to the dis- GENERAL LEAVE thank them for the sacrifices they make in ease; Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I ask their service to our nation. Whereas multiple sclerosis symptoms unanimous consent that all Members occur when an immune system attack affects However, I believe it is important to point may have 5 legislative days in which to the myelin in nerve fibers of the central revise and extend their remarks. out that more must be done to support all of nervous system, damaging or destroying it the employees at DHS. In 2003 the former ad- and replacing it with scar tissue, thereby The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ministration terminated the collective bar- interfering with or preventing the trans- objection to the request of the gentle- gaining rights of TSA screeners just as TSA mission of nerve signals; woman from California? workers were ready to vote on joining the Whereas in rare cases multiple sclerosis is There was no objection. union of the American Federation of Govern- so progressive it is fatal; Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I yield ment Employees (AFGE). Transportation se- Whereas there is no known cure for mul- such time as she may consume to the tiple sclerosis; gentlewoman from California (Ms. curity workers deserve collective bargaining Whereas the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition, LEE). rights. It is an insult to these dedicated men an affiliation of multiple sclerosis organiza- and women within DHS, including FEMA and tions dedicated to the enhancement of the Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, Border Patrol, that their rights to organize quality of life for all those affected by mul- first let me thank my colleague the have been denied. Transportation Security Of- tiple sclerosis, recognizes, and celebrates gentlewoman from California, Mrs. ficers deserve the same collective bargaining Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week; CAPPS, for yielding me the time. As a rights enjoyed by other employees of the Fed- Whereas the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition’s former nurse, Congresswoman CAPPS eral workforce. mission is to increase opportunities for co- understands very, very well what peo- I unequivocally appreciate the dedicated operation and provide greater opportunity to ple with multiple sclerosis must go leverage the effective use of resources for the through. I appreciate her work in man- service of DHS employees. Their hard work benefit of the multiple sclerosis community; and commitment to public service is out- Whereas the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition aging this resolution. I thank her for standing and valuable. recognizes and celebrates Multiple Sclerosis her advocacy on behalf of people with Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Awareness Week during 1 week in March MS and for working to ensure that ev- back the balance of my time. every calendar year; eryone has access to quality, affordable

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.006 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2939 health care in America. Thank you, cation, more research, and really pro- Robinson, had multiple sclerosis, so Congresswoman CAPPS. vide for more care for MS patients and our First Family clearly understands I also want to thank my colleagues more supportive services. My sister, I the need for this awareness and for out- Congressman RUSS CARNAHAN and Con- believe she was diagnosed when she was reach efforts and for more resources gressman MICHAEL BURGESS, the co- about 26 or 27. She didn’t tell me I put forth toward really finding the chairs of the Multiple Sclerosis Caucus could tell her age, so I won’t do that, cause and cure of MS. in the House, for working with me on but she is a year younger than I am The causes of MS are unknown, this resolution and for keeping the and 2 years ago I celebrated the 21st though there are an unusually high Congress focused on MS issues. This is anniversary of my 39th birthday. So number of MS cases among Gulf War really a bipartisan issue, and I appre- you can figure that out. veterans. There is no cure for the dis- ciate both of my colleagues for work- She has been living a productive and ease. ing together to make sure that it stays fruitful life. She has learned about the So the resolution that we are consid- that way. treatments and medications. Fortu- ering today will support the work of I also have to thank the over 110 co- nately, she has had access to some of the Multiple Sclerosis Coalition in sponsors who joined with us to cham- the best, and she wants everybody to raising awareness about MS by urging pion MS Awareness Week and who have access to the types of treatment States, localities and the media to par- made the consideration of this resolu- she has had. But she also recognizes ticipate in MS Awareness Week. Also tion today possible on the suspension there may or may not be a cure during we are pleased that the defense appro- calendar. In particular I want to thank her lifetime, and that this Multiple priations bill included $5 million to Chairman HENRY WAXMAN and Ranking Sclerosis Awareness Week, which we fund research into multiple sclerosis Member JOE BARTON and their staffs designated for March 2 to March 8, is among our veterans, so I look forward for agreeing to bring this resolution really the beginning of this effort. So, to working with Chairman OBEY and straight to the floor, and, of course, to for that she is deeply grateful, like I Chairman MURTHA to ensure that these Christos Tsentas on my staff, who un- know all MS patients are throughout funds are well used. derstands this issue very well and has the country. Again, let me thank all of my col- shepherded us through this process. Some people may not know what leagues for their support. It is very Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I multiple sclerosis is. Let me just ex- timely and urgent that we consider didn’t mention the work also of the plain a little bit about it, because this this. On behalf of my sister Mildred, Multiple Sclerosis Coalition and in par- resolution is about raising awareness. who lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, and all ticular the National MS Society and MS is a chronic, unpredictable dis- of those individuals throughout the its staff, especially Shawn O’Neail, for ease of the central nervous system. It country with MS, let me just thank leading the charge to create MS Aware- is thought to be an autoimmune dis- you so much for your leadership and ness Week and for helping us with this order where the immune system incor- for this resolution. Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speak- resolution. And, of course, I have to rectly attacks healthy nerve fibers of er, I yield myself such time as I may thank all of those who are living and the central nervous system, interfering consume. suffering with multiple sclerosis and with transmission of nerve signals Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of all of the friends and family and loved throughout the body. People with MS House Concurrent Resolution 14, sup- ones who care for them and take care can experience a range of symptoms porting the goals and ideals of Multiple of them when they are in need. This that can either have permanent or Sclerosis Awareness Week. I certainly resolution is about commending you as intermittent damage, depending on the want to commend my colleague from well. And let me just say I have to type of MS that they have. These California, Representative BARBARA thank my dear sister Mildred for teach- symptoms can include blurred vision, LEE, for introducing this very impor- ing me what it is like to live with mul- loss of balance, poor coordination, tant and very timely resolution. tiple sclerosis. slurred speech, tremors, numbness, ex- As many of you are now aware, this Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman CAPPS, treme fatigue, problems with memory week is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness I called my sister and I talked to her and concentration, paralysis, blindness Week, and I would encourage everyone before I was going to share her story to and more. listening today and all Americans to make sure that she didn’t have a prob- Most people are diagnosed with MS take some time and reflect on this dis- lem with any privacy issues, and she between the ages of 20 to 50, just as my ease and its impact on our families, our said to me, ‘‘Barbara, if there is any- sister was, though there is no actual friends and our society. thing you can do to raise awareness diagnostic laboratory test for multiple Representative LEE talked about her about the condition that not only my- sclerosis. I remember my sister was di- sister and what the family has gone self has, but many, many, many Ameri- agnosed by the process of elimination, through, and I think as a physician, al- cans, then just do it and share what I given all the tests that were available though I am not a neurologist, I think have to tell you.’’ So this is her story, then. Given the range of symptoms she explained it, Mr. Speaker, perfectly coming from my sister Mildred. that occur, it is also quite common for in regard to her description of the dis- She said to me, ‘‘You know, it is so someone to be misdiagnosed, and typi- ease of multiple sclerosis. I know to frustrating to go to a doctor and for me cally it takes about 10 years to receive her disappointment it really hasn’t to ask a doctor a question about the a correct diagnosis. changed much over the 10 or 15 years symptoms of my disease and the doctor There are over 400,000 people, 400,000 since her sister came down with the says ‘I just don’t know.’’’ She said at people, throughout the United States disease. It is still a diagnosis of exclu- first she thought the doctors were just suffering from MS, and worldwide over sion. It is hard. There is no marker, putting her off, but come to find out 2.5 million cases have been diagnosed. there is no blood marker, and it is very the doctors just don’t know. But the real numbers of people living difficult. So the points that BARBARA So this bill is for all of the times that with MS are almost certainly higher. LEE brought out are absolutely accu- she told me she gets up in the morning, Although MS is largely characterized rate and very informative. and this is very typical of MS patients, as a disease that affects Caucasian pop- Mr. Speaker, I have had no one in my she gets up in the morning and wonders ulations, it does occur among African family that suffered from multiple whether she will be able to walk that Americans and other minority groups sclerosis. I have had some very close day. Let me just say for all of the and can be quite severe. As my sister friends who suffer from it and are doing times that she is in remission, dreading said, it is a disease that really does well. But as Representative LEE point- the next flare-up, she said to me that need to come out of the closet for peo- ed out, it comes and goes. They have every day she wonders what is going to ple of color. Because people of color good days and bad days. One man, a trigger the return of her symptoms. tend to access the health care system great friend, is in a wheelchair and has Mr. Speaker, she also said to me that less frequently, they may not get diag- been for many years, but he has had it is very important that we raise nosed at the rates they should. children and grandchildren. Another awareness about MS and that we do Let me just say, our First Lady, lady is a very good friend as well and more outreach and more public edu- Michelle Obama, her dad, Mr. Frasier she has had children.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.023 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2940 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 But, again, this is a disease that can to issue proclamations designating MS Lee’s sister’s story, it’s very hard to di- end up ultimately as bad as something Awareness Week, and encouraging the agnose, and often takes years to do like Lou Gehrig’s disease, amyotrophic media to help educate the public about that. And it afflicts people, often lateral sclerosis. It doesn’t often MS. Today, I ask for all of my col- women, between the ages of 20 to 50. progress to that extreme degree, but I leagues’ support. There is no actual diagnostic labora- indeed had a first cousin about my age I want to give a special thanks to the tory test for multiple sclerosis, and so who died from Lou Gehrig’s disease, so MS Society back in St. Louis, Mis- many questions about it. It’s quite I am very much aware of this condition souri, my home, that has been so ac- commonly misdiagnosed. and very supportive of this resolution tive and been so helpful to me in this Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week regarding multiple sclerosis. effort, and also want to remember my was created by the Multiple Sclerosis MS and other chronic diseases like it, first cousin, Betty Carnahan, who we Coalition, a group of affiliated organi- they change lives, and it presents sig- lost years ago and who first helped me zations, to help raise awareness and to nificant challenges for those who suf- learn about this disease. leverage additional resources to fight fer, for them and for their families, as Because of small gestures by every- this disease. BARBARA LEE mentioned. day people, my colleagues in this body, The resolution we are considering Mr. Speaker, MS is a chronic disease and cutting edge research by our Na- today will support the work of this co- that attacks the central nervous sys- tion’s finest, each day people living alition by urging States, localities and tem. Essentially MS heavily impairs with MS have a better and a brighter the media to participate in MS Aware- and prevents nerve cells in the brain future to look forward to. ness Week, and by encouraging people, and in the spinal cord from commu- Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speak- including Members of Congress, to edu- nicating with each other. They just er, I continue to reserve my time. cate themselves about the disease. can’t make that connection. So those Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I yield I urge my colleagues to support this symptoms that she described, from myself such time as I may consume. resolution, and I reserve the balance of numbness in the limbs, loss of vision, I wish to speak on H. Con. Res. 14 by my time. and, yes, even eventually paralysis in rising in support of it, as I do, in rec- Mr. GINGREY of Georgia. Mr. Speak- some cases, are very unpredictable, ognition and support of the goals and er, I have no further requests for time, and, of course, it can vary from person ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness and I yield back the balance of my to person. Week, and I do so on behalf of the Mul- time. Mr. Speaker, unfortunately for the tiple Sclerosis Society of the Central Mrs. CAPPS. I yield back the balance 400,000 Americans living with MS, the Coast of California, which does such of my time, Mr. Speaker. cause of the disease, as I mentioned at great work in raising awareness of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the beginning of my remarks, remains issue and raising funds to support their question is on the motion offered by unknown. But I want to recognize and work and the work of the Society the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. applaud the work currently underway across the country, and also in pro- CAPPS) that the House suspend the at NIH, the National Institutes of viding vital services to those afflicted rules and agree to the concurrent reso- Health, and other medical research in- with multiple sclerosis who are my lution, H. Con. Res. 14. stitutions across the country to im- constituents. The question was taken. prove the lives of people with multiple This week of awareness and recogni- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the sclerosis. There is little doubt that our tion takes place from March 2nd to opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being collective resolve to find a cure re- March 8th, and it is an honor to speak in the affirmative, the ayes have it. mains undeterred, as demonstrated by on behalf of this awareness, com- Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I object to this great resolution. mending as I do my colleague from the vote on the ground that a quorum Mr. Speaker, with that, I reserve the California, Ms. BARBARA LEE, whom we is not present and make the point of balance of my time. heard, who introduced this resolution order that a quorum is not present. Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, I am along with the cochairs of the Multiple The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- pleased to yield 3 minutes to the co- Sclerosis Caucus, Mr. CARNAHAN and ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the Chair of the Multiple Sclerosis Caucus, Mr. BURGESS. Chair’s prior announcement, further our colleague, the gentleman from Mis- proceedings on this motion will be b 1345 souri (Mr. CARNAHAN). postponed. Mr. CARNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I want Many of us have very special people The point of no quorum is considered to thank the gentlelady from Cali- in our lives who live every day with withdrawn. fornia for her leadership and work on MS. I know I do, and I’m thinking f this. I am very proud and honored to be right now particularly of one young co-Chair of the Congressional MS Cau- friend. NATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE MONTH cus with my colleague Dr. MICHAEL Multiple sclerosis, as we have been BURGESS. This is truly a bipartisan ef- discussing, is a chronic and unpredict- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. fort and one that just had tremendous able disease of the central nervous sys- Speaker, I move to suspend the rules resources and support from around the tem. Four hundred thousand people and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 45) country to help raise this awareness. I throughout the United States and 21⁄2 raising awareness and promoting edu- encourage everyone to show their com- million around the world are suffering cation on the criminal justice system mitment and support of Multiple Scle- today from multiple sclerosis. It’s by establishing March as ‘‘National rosis Awareness Week and the MS thought to be an autoimmune disorder Criminal Justice Month’’. movement with really simple actions where the immune system incorrectly The Clerk read the title of the resolu- throughout this week, MS Awareness attacks healthy nerve fibers of the cen- tion. Week, March 2 through 8. tral nervous system, interfering with The text of the resolution is as fol- MS Awareness Week was created by transmission of nerve signals through- lows: the MS Coalition to raise national out the body. H. RES. 45 awareness about the disease and to rec- People with MS, as we know, experi- Whereas there are approximately three ognize those who have dedicated their ence a range of symptoms that can be million Americans employed within the jus- time and talent to promoting MS re- either permanent or intermittent, de- tice system; search and programs. pending on the type of disease that Whereas approximately seven million In order to raise awareness, I am they have. These symptoms can in- adults are on probation, parole, or are incar- very pleased that Representative BAR- clude blurred vision, loss of balance, cerated; Whereas millions of Americans have been BARA LEE has taken the lead to intro- poor coordination, slurred speech, victims of crime and, consequently, lost in- duce H. Con. Res. 14, recognizing and tremors, numbness, extreme fatigue, come, incurred medical expenses, and suf- supporting the goals and ideals of MS problems with memory and concentra- fered emotionally; Awareness Week, encouraging the tion, paralysis, blindness and more. Whereas the cost of crime to individuals, President, State and local governments And as we have heard from Barbara communities, businesses, and the various

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.024 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2941 levels of government exceeds the billions of parole, on probation, or incarcerated. justice system by establishing March dollars spent each year in administering the And our Nation spends billions of dol- 2009 as National Criminal Justice criminal justice system; lars each year on efforts to address Month. Whereas, in 2006, fifty percent of Ameri- crime. And yet too many Americans It’s important to educate Americans cans admitted they fear that their home would be burglarized when they are not say they have little confidence in the about our criminal justice system and home; thirty-four percent of American criminal justice system. encourage discussion on how to prevent women feared that they would be sexually There are a number of steps we can and respond to criminal conduct. assaulted; and forty-four percent of Ameri- take to address this lack of confidence. That’s why this legislation has been in- cans feared they would be a victim of a ter- For one, we could invest more re- troduced. rorist attack; sources in education. Educated Ameri- As a former prosecutor and judge, Whereas approximately thirty-five percent cans not only have more opportunities, I’ve been involved in the criminal jus- of Americans have very little or no con- they also have a greater appreciation tice system for a long time, 8 years as fidence in the criminal justice system and a prosecutor and 22 years as a criminal the negative effects of crime in regard to of the effects they have on the world confidence in governmental agencies and around them, and they certainly have a court judge in Houston, Texas. And overall social stability are immeasurable; much dramatically lower incidence of this resolution will encourage commu- Whereas crime rates have dropped since criminal behavior. nities to discuss the causes, con- the early 1990s, but most Americans believe By failing to invest in education, we sequences and long-term effects of that the rate of crime is increasing; have allowed a cradle-to-prison pipe- criminal conduct in our country. Whereas Federal, State, and local govern- line to develop. What we should be It is important for us to talk about ments increased their spending for police building is a cradle-to-college pipeline why guilty defendants should receive protection, corrections, judicial, and legal instead. And we see the unfortunate re- appropriate punishment for their acts, activities in fiscal year 2005 by 5.5 percent or 1 $204 billion; and sults on any given day, over 2 ⁄2 million but we should also do everything in our Whereas there is a need to educate Ameri- incarcerated in our prisons, almost all power to make sure victims receive the cans and to promote awareness within Amer- of them poor, almost two-thirds of assistance that they need. After all, ican society as to the causes and con- them African American or Latino. long after the crime is committed, a sequences of crime, as well as the strategies There’s another thing we need to do, victim still has to face devastating and developments for preventing and re- and that’s to focus beyond the step of consequences. Sometimes victims are sponding to crime: Now, therefore, be it incarceration and to think about reha- sentenced to a life of misery because of Resolved, That— the crime that was committed against (1) it is the sense of the House of Rep- bilitation, keeping first-time offenders resentatives that— from becoming repeat offenders. That them. (A) National Criminal Justice Month pro- requires investing meaningfully in vo- We have the responsibility to protect vides an opportunity to educate Americans cational training, education, coun- the lives of the innocent, and to advo- on the criminal justice system; and seling and other skills development cate on behalf of crime victims. That is (B) Americans should be aware of the that prisoners need in order to re-enter why I’ve established the bipartisan causes and consequences of crime, how to society and become productive citi- Victims’ Rights Caucus, along with my prevent crime, and how to respond to crime; zens. friend, JIM COSTA from California. The and Congress took an important step in mission of the Caucus is to ensure that (2) the House of Representatives urges pol- icymakers, criminal justice officials, edu- that direction last year when it passed victims and law enforcement have a cators, victim service providers, nonprofits, the Second Chance Act. Now we need voice in Congress. community leaders, and others to promote to follow through with adequate fund- Every year, millions of Americans awareness of how to prevent and respond to ing to make its promises take hold. become victims of crime. Those crimes crime through National Criminal Justice Third, I think it’s time we acknowl- range from robbery to homicide. Unfor- Month. edge the failure of the so-called War on tunately, these people don’t choose to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Drugs as our government has fought it become victims of crime, but they are ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from over the last few decades. Increasingly picked by someone else in our commu- California (Ms. ZOE LOFGREN) and the stiffer and stiffer sentences for non- nity as prey. And suddenly they are gentleman from Texas (Mr. POE) each violent drug offenses hasn’t worked, thrust into the criminal justice system will control 20 minutes. not to significantly reduce illegal drug without having a say. The Chair recognizes the gentle- use or the criminal enterprise that has Victims of crime have no high-dollar woman from California. grown up to feed it. It’s worked only to lobbyist in Washington, D.C. They look GENERAL LEAVE swell the prison population. to Members of Congress to advocate on Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. It’s time that we brought more of the their behalf. And the purpose of the Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that focus on intervention, treatment and system is to provide justice for victims all Members have 5 legislative days to yes, fact-based education to come to and defendants, because the same Con- revise and extend their remarks and in- grips with the drug problem. The Drug stitution that protects defendants of clude extraneous material on the reso- Courts program has been more success- crime protects crime victims as well. lution under consideration. ful in curtailing recidivism because of People who commit crimes against the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there its focus on treatment. Studies show rule of law, which is our society’s rule objection to the request of the gentle- that those sent to Drug Court have a 1- of law, should be held accountable for woman from California? year recidivism rate, only one-sixth as their actions. There was no objection. In addition, by establishing March Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. high as those sent to prison for a simi- 2009 as National Criminal Justice Speaker, I yield myself such time as I lar offense. Month, this resolution will also recog- may consume. I believe making this month National Mr. Speaker, I would like to com- Criminal Justice Month can help the nize and applaud the efforts of law en- mend Congressman TED POE of Texas many in our communities who are forcement officials, judges, court staff, for introducing this legislation. dedicating themselves to reducing and the many probation officers Establishing March 2009 as National crime bring greater awareness to their throughout the country who work with Criminal Justice Month will help in- efforts. offenders to help them reintegrate into crease awareness of the harmful effects I encourage my colleagues to support our community. of crime, not only on the immediate H. Res. 45 as well. Throughout my years of service, I’ve victims, but on our society as a whole. I reserve the balance of my time. been impressed with the profes- It will also help bring public focus on Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I sionalism and dedication of the public the need to make our criminal justice yield myself such time as I may con- servants who work in the criminal jus- system as effective as possible, not sume. tice system. These brave and dedicated only in responding to crime, but in I rise in strong support of this resolu- Americans work every day to make our helping to reduce its incidence. tion, House Resolution 45. The goal of communities a better and safer com- Millions of Americans have been vic- this resolution is to raise awareness munity, and they work with defendants timized by crime. Millions more are on and promote education of our criminal to help them turn their lives around.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:47 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.008 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2942 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 I urge all my colleagues to support the rules and agree to the resolution, gious workers to enter the United this resolution. H. Res. 45. States to do important work. The 5,000 I reserve the balance of my time. The question was taken. religious workers eligible for these Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. I The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the visas each year are called to a vocation have no additional speakers, so I would opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being or are in traditional religious occupa- continue to reserve if the gentleman in the affirmative, the ayes have it. tions with bona fide nonprofit religious has speakers. Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on organizations. They are missionaries, Mr. POE of Texas. I yield myself such that I demand the yeas and nays. counselors, instructors, and pastoral time as I may consume. The yeas and nays were ordered. care providers. Considering the current Mr. Speaker, according to the Bureau The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- economic crisis we are experiencing of Justice statistics, 35 percent of ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the and the degree to which Americans are Americans have little or no confidence Chair’s prior announcement, further turning to religious organizations for in our criminal justice system. It is un- proceedings on this motion will be help, these religious workers are need- fortunate that one-third of the people postponed. ed now more than ever. in this country feel that way. And we f The other program is the so-called shouldn’t be surprised because that’s Conrad ‘‘J Waiver,’’ a critically impor- all that they hear when they turn on EXTENDING CERTAIN tant immigration program that helps their local news at night is crime and IMMIGRATION PROGRAMS medically underserved communities at- violence. It’s mostly bad news about Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. tract highly skilled physicians. This crimes being committed in their com- Speaker, I move to suspend the rules program is crucial to the States as it munities and across the Nation. and pass the bill (H.R. 1127) to extend helps them attract doctors who have But the reality is that crime rates certain immigration programs. received their medical training in the have dropped dramatically since the The Clerk read the title of the bill. United States to work in areas that 1990s. However, because of what people The text of the bill is as follows: desperately need doctors. hear and see on the news, most Ameri- H.R. 1127 Its importance was demonstrated cans believe the crime rate is actually again a year and a half ago when a tor- increasing. It is important to recognize Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in nado utterly destroyed the town of the gains we have made in combating Congress assembled, Greensburg, Kansas. Without this pro- crime across the country, and Ameri- SECTION 1. SPECIAL IMMIGRANT NONMINISTER gram, that town would not have had cans should have more confidence in RELIGIOUS WORKER PROGRAM. any doctors. They were of tremendous this criminal justice system. Subclauses (II) and (III) of section help in keeping casualties to a min- Mr. Speaker, I’ve traveled to mul- 101(a)(27)(C)(ii) of the Immigration and Na- imum. We need to keep this program tiple countries and observed the way tionality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27)(C)(ii)) are going so that States can attract med- their criminal justice system operates. amended by striking ‘‘March 6, 2009,’’ each ical talent and can keep the doors of I’ve been in China, and back in the place such term appears and inserting ‘‘Sep- small town clinics open. 1980s I was in the former Soviet Union. tember 30, 2009,’’. Both of these programs have strong I would say that neither one of those SEC. 2. WAIVER OF FOREIGN COUNTRY RESI- DENCE REQUIREMENT WITH RE- bipartisan support, and this bill would countries has a justice system. They SPECT TO INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL extend the programs through the end just have a system. And our criminal GRADUATES. of the fiscal year when the issue can be justice system is the best in the world. Section 220(c) of the Immigration and Na- revisited, hopefully, in a much broader Not only is it unmatched in its ability tionality Technical Corrections Act of 1994 (8 context. to determine the guilt of an individual, U.S.C. 1182 note) is amended by striking I commend committee Ranking ‘‘March 6, 2009’’ and inserting ‘‘September 30, but also in the way it assures the Member LAMAR SMITH for his work in 2009’’. rights of defendants and victims in a making this a bipartisan measure. I court of law. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- urge my colleagues to support this im- This resolution will encourage people ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from portant legislation. across America to talk about the ways California (Ms. ZOE LOFGREN) and the I reserve the balance of my time. to prevent and respond to criminal con- gentleman from Texas (Mr. POE) each Mr. POE of Texas. I yield myself such duct. And in doing that, it will help re- will control 20 minutes. time as I may consume. store people’s faith in the best justice The Chair recognizes the gentle- Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate system in the world, and that’s the one woman from California. the gentlelady from California for in- that we have in this country because, GENERAL LEAVE troducing this very important legisla- Mr. Speaker, justice is what we do in Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. tion, this commonsense legislation, to this country. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that help the medical community but, more And that’s just the way it is. all Members have 5 legislative days to importantly, to help those who are I yield back the balance of my time. revise and extend their remarks and in- medically ill throughout the United Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. clude extraneous material on the bill States and the rest of the world. So I Speaker, I once again commend the under consideration. support H.R. 1127, which reauthorizes gentleman for introducing this legisla- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there two deserving programs through the tion. I urge its passage. I share his en- objection to the request of the gentle- end of this fiscal year. thusiasm for our system of justice, woman from California? Foreign citizens who participate in that preserves the rights of the defend- There was no objection. medical residencies in the United ant but also elevates the needs of the States on what is called the ‘‘J’’ visa victims for justice. b 1400 exchange program must generally We honor those who work in our sys- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. leave the United States at the conclu- tem, be they judges, prosecutors, de- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I sion of their residencies and reside fense counsel, police officers, and I may consume. abroad for 2 years before they can be would say, yes, also drug treatment Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1127 extends two allowed to return to this country. The people who are trying to prevent crime immigration programs, one for reli- intent is to encourage American- from recurring. So this month cele- gious workers and one for doctors who trained foreign doctors to go home to brates those in our community who serve in medically underserved areas, improve health conditions and advance serve in the criminal justice system. through the end of this fiscal year. If the medical profession in their native They deserve our thanks. we do not extend these programs, they countries. I yield back the balance of my time. will sunset on March 6, 2009, just 3 days In 1994, Congress created a waiver of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The from today. These programs are too this 2-year foreign residence require- question is on the motion offered by important to let expire. ment, and this waiver was available, if the gentlewoman from California (Ms. The Special Immigrant Non-Minister requested, by the State departments of ZOE LOFGREN) that the House suspend Religious Worker Program allows reli- public health for foreign doctors who

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.046 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2943 are committed to practicing medicine visa petitions to exceed the cap for H– year to enter the United States to as- for 3 years in areas having a shortage 2B visas for the second half of this fis- sist churches and other religious estab- of health care professionals. This pro- cal year. lishments. gram has been very successful, and This demand highlights the imme- While I support the program, I have Congress has extended the waiver on diate need for Congress to extend the long been concerned about the level of multiple occasions. H–2B visa returning worker program to fraud. In 2006, the U.S. Citizenship and This waiver’s current authorization help small and seasonal businesses fill Immigration Services Office conducted expires this Friday. The gentlelady their seasonal labor needs and to keep an assessment on the religious worker from California, with this legislation, full-time Americans and businesses visa program. They selected 220 reli- reauthorizes the waiver until Sep- working. These returning workers have gious workers at random and found tember 30, 2009, the end of the fiscal provided relief to small businesses fraud in one-third of the cases. In addi- year. throughout the Nation, covering a tion, they found ‘‘many of the cases re- This bill also extends the authoriza- broad spectrum of industries like viewed had multiple fraud indicators.’’ tion for certain religious worker immi- landscapers, tourism, restaurants, ho- In 32 of the fraudulent cases, the reli- grant visas. The Immigration and Na- tels, and seafood processors. gious institution was not bona fide. It tionality Act makes available green H–2B workers offer short-term help. either did not exist or it existed only cards each year to special immigrant They cannot and do not stay in the on paper. Thirty-nine of the fraudulent religious workers. This program allows United States. More importantly, the cases were marked by fraudulent sup- religious denominations in the United H–2B program contains strong provi- porting documentation or material States to bring in needed religious sions to ensure American workers have misrepresentations within a document workers—both ministers and those the first chance to work. by a legitimate religious institution. working in religious occupations or vo- Without an extension of the return- The Department of Homeland Secu- cations—so long as the workers have ing worker program, small and sea- rity issued a final rule last November, been performing those functions for at sonal businesses will face significant making several changes designed to re- least 2 previous years. labor shortages this year as they did duce fraud in the program. Immigra- The non-minister categories were last year. We have constantly been told tion Chairwoman LOFGREN and I are added by the 1990 immigration bill, and we cannot bring this bill to the floor awaiting a report by the DHS inspector Congress has extended their authoriza- until we address comprehensive immi- general regarding the effectiveness of tion several times since then. However, gration. Then why are we bringing up those fraud prevention measures. I the authorization also expires this Fri- the J–1 program when we’re letting H– hope we will address concerns about day. This bill extends the program 2B expire? fraud and will also ensure that reci- through September 30, 2009, the end of Therefore, regrettably, I must oppose procity is contained in any future ex- the fiscal year. These visas assist many H.R. 1127. tension of the religious worker visa American religious denominations to Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I program. meet the needs of their followers. yield 5 minutes to the ranking member Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Because this bill reauthorizes two of the Judiciary Committee (Mr. SMITH Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gen- worthy immigration programs, I urge of Texas). tleman from North Dakota (Mr. POM- my colleagues to support this. Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I EROY). I reserve the balance of my time. support H.R. 1127, but I also agree with Mr. POMEROY. Mr. Speaker, I am Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. STEVE KING, the ranking member of rising in support of this legislation, Speaker, I would now yield 2 minutes the immigration subcommittee, about and I do so with some sadness because to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. the need for religious worker reci- I agree with the point made on the H– STUPAK). procity. Some countries that send reli- 2B visa by the gentleman from Michi- Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, I regret gious workers to the United States gan. that I must stand in opposition to al- refuse entry to religious workers from However, within this J–1 bill before lowing immigration extensions or re- the United States and do not allow for us, H.R. 1127, is legislation to extend forms without addressing a temporary the free exercise of religion. the Conrad 30 program, which expires extension of the H–2B returning worker Each year, the U.S. Commission of on March 6, 2009. Now, that is a pro- program. International Religious Freedom com- gram, the basis of which many foreign The H–2B visa program was created piles a list of countries that seek to medical professionals presently serving to provide access to nonimmigrant, control religious thought and expres- in many medically underserved areas, temporary workers for seasonal and sion, that show open hostility to reli- including in North Dakota, are here. peak load needs when no American gious minorities and that fail to pro- So if we don’t get this done in time— workers can be found. Foreign workers tect certain religious groups. The 2008 and let’s face it. March 6, 2009 is right offer small and seasonal businesses list includes Burma, North Korea, Iran, on our head right now—we raise havoc short-term help, and they return to Pakistan, China, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, with the delivery of medical care their home countries at the end of the Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. through many rural underserved areas. season. H–2B visas are capped at 66,000 One way to help advance religious We are literally talking about the med- visas per year. Even with 66,000 visas freedom is to do as Representative ical professionals having to pack up per year, it does not meet the labor KING suggests and prevent citizens of and go home. We’ve worked mighty needs of seasonal businesses. countries that are hostile to religious hard to get them there in the first To help fill these needs, Congress es- freedom from participating in our reli- place. If we lose them, they may never tablished the H–2B returning worker gious worker visa program. Both the come back. program in 2005. This program exempts Special Immigrant Non-Minister Reli- What’s more: What about the pa- returning workers who have received gious Worker Program and the rural J– tients in these rural clinics this after- an H–2B visa in one of three previous 1 visa waiver program are set to expire noon who are seeing their physicians? fiscal years from counting against the this Friday, March 6. H.R. 1127 extends What if the physician is gone and care 66,000 cap. However, this exemption ex- both programs until September 30, 2009. is disrupted? pired on September 30, 2007. In the The J–1 visa program provision There are many ways to make a 110th Congress, this exemption had the waives the 2-year foreign residency re- point, but we have got something that support of 158 bipartisan Members of quirement for foreign doctors who are could be, for many, a matter of life and Congress—88 Democrats and 70 Repub- willing to serve in medically under- death, and that’s keeping these med- licans. In the 111th Congress, the bill served areas. The waiver program en- ical professionals in the rural area by has just been introduced, and we al- ables people in rural and in intercity extending for 6 months this Conrad ready have the support of 32 Democrats communities to have access to quality State 30 Program. It’s just too impor- and 23 Republicans. As of January 7, medical care. The Special Immigrant tant. We need it too badly. the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Non-Minister Religious Worker Pro- So I urge the enactment of this legis- Services had already received enough gram allows 5,000 religious workers per lation, giving us 6 more months on that

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.048 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 program. Then I urge us to take the statements about the length of time and religious liberty, we need to also gentleman’s point and pass the H–2B that the applicant was a member of the export that freedom around the world. visa reform. religious organization and the nature We have many soldiers that are buried Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I of the qualifying experience.’’ in foreign lands to promote that free- yield 5 minutes to the ranking member The report went on to state that dom. They’ve paid their price. There’s of the Subcommittee on Immigration ‘‘evidence uncovered by INS suggests been a price paid in this country con- (Mr. KING of Iowa). that some of these organizations exist tinually for religious freedom. We need Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, we’re solely as a means to carry out immi- to promote it around the world. here to address the extension of these gration fraud.’’ That was then. This is For us to open up the doors of the two programs, including the religious more current. United States of America to religious worker visa program extension, which Recently, I will say in July of 2006, workers from countries who come here is set up to authorize now until Sep- Mr. Speaker, the U.S. Citizenship and to advance their version of their side of tember 30 of this year, until the end of Immigration Service’s Office of Fraud society and not have those countries this fiscal year. Detection and National Security con- allow American missionaries to come I had recommended that we bring ducted a fraud benefit assessment on into them, I think sets up a standard this bill back before committee for the the Religious Worker Visa Program. that we should not tolerate. So I will purposes of a markup so that we could They selected 220 cases at random—of be introducing legislation that sets up reevaluate the policy. We have had which we’re very familiar with on the a reciprocity program in this religious hearings on this subject matter in the committee—they found an astonishing workers visa program. And I look for- previous Congress, and we all know 33 percent fraud rate. That’s one of ward to the opportunity in September that the actions of the previous Con- every three were fraudulently based. In or prior to September to raise this gress don’t color the existing Congress. 32 of the fraudulent cases, the religious issue in a better format. The history of the religious worker institution either didn’t exist or only Until that time, and believing that visa program has had some problems existed on paper. And 39 of the fraudu- we will have an open forum in this Con- with fraud. It was created in 1990, but lent petitions included fraudulent sup- gress and a real legitimate debate on from the beginning, it has been a mag- porting documentation or material the subject of religious worker reci- net for people who want to perpetrate a representations within a document. procity, I intend to support this resolu- scam on America’s immigration sys- Other instances of fraud included tion today and work in good faith to tem. cases where the petitioner could not be improve it before it comes up for reau- According to the State Department’s located or connected to any religious thorization on September 30, 2009. Bureau of Consular Affairs—and this is entity and where the petitioning reli- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. dated September of 2005, their Fraud gious entity was unaware that the peti- Speaker, we have no additional speak- Digest—‘‘The religious worker visas tion had been filed and was unaware of ers. are known as some of the most difficult the beneficiary. If the gentleman has additional to adjudicate.’’ Also in the modern era, in 2003, Mo- speakers, I would reserve and allow The Fraud Digest then goes on to dis- hammed Khalil and three of his sons him to proceed. cuss various cases in which people were were arrested in connection with sub- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I prosecuted for fraudulent use of the mitting false applications to bring over yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from program, the religious worker pro- 200 individuals to the United States Kansas (Mr. MORAN). gram. For instance, in 2004, a Ven- using the religious worker visa pro- Mr. MORAN of Kansas. To the gen- ezuelan national was convicted in Vir- gram. During court proceedings, pros- tleman from Texas, I thank you for ginia visa fraud. He had filed 179 fraud- ecutors revealed that Khalil made yielding time. ulent petitions for religious ministers. statements to an undercover witness Mr. Speaker, I’m here to speak in In addition to creating fraudulent cer- professing allegiance to Osama bin favor of at least a portion of this bill tificates of ordination, diplomas and Laden. He also allegedly stated, ‘‘Hope- related to the J–1 Visa program. I am a other supporting documentation, he fully, another attack in the United co-chair of the Rural Health Care Coa- also obtained valid 501(c)(3) tax exemp- States will come shortly.’’ lition along with the gentleman from tions from recognized religious organi- That gives you, I think, Mr. Speaker, North Dakota (Mr. POMEROY). In our zations without their knowledge. the feel for how this program has been efforts in rural States to attract and The immigration subcommittee has abused. retain physicians in communities that long been aware of the fraud in this However, I want to make clear, Mr. are highly underserved with medical program. Mr. Speaker, I take you back Speaker, to you and to the RECORD, and care, the J–1 Visa program, the Conrad to a 1997 GAO investigation which was eventually to the American people, 30 program, has become a critical com- requested by the subcommittee. The that I recognize—as will every Member ponent of our ability to maintain a State Department conducted a field in- of this Congress—that there are very health care delivery system. quiry to get the views of consular of- sincere religious workers who come to Kansas alone since 2002 has attracted fices as to the level and type of fraud. the United States that fit within the and retained 103 physicians. There are In 41 percent of the 83 responding posts, category and within the intent of this many communities that I represent in some type of fraud or abuse was ac- Congress. And I think what we need to Kansas that have no doctor except for knowledged. The State Department do today is honor them, thank them, a J–1 Visa doc. Now, a J–1 Visa doctor also noted that, under the program’s recognize that this is a country that is someone born in a foreign county regulations, ‘‘almost anyone involved was built upon religious freedom. And but trains in the United States, takes with a church, aside from the explicitly where we can promote religious free- their residency and certification here excluded occupations of cleaning, dom, we need to do so within our own and earns the ability to practice medi- maintenance and support staff . . . ar- borders and around the globe. cine. guably could qualify as a religious That’s why I have raised the issue In return for serving in an under- worker.’’ that we are receiving religious workers served area—and while I represent gen- from countries that will not allow erally a rural State—these underserved b 1415 American religious workers to go into areas are often urban areas of our This clearly wasn’t the intent of the them unless they fit within their nar- country as well. And in return for serv- program. It doesn’t remain the intent rowly defined religious category. ing the needs of patients in those com- of the program that will, I think, like- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. munities across America, they are ally be reauthorized today. CHILDERS). The time of the gentleman lowed to remain in the United States When the GAO released its final re- has expired. for an additional 3 years. port in 1999, the agency noted that the Mr. POE of Texas. I yield the gen- Just last August—an example of types of fraud often encountered in the tleman 1 additional minute. where this comes home—the American processing of religious worker visas Mr. KING of Iowa. So this being an Methodist Ministries of Garden City, ‘‘involved petitioners making false American value of religious freedom Kansas, finally was able to recruit a

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.034 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2945 physician for their community health H.R. 1127, legislation that would extend the to its expiration on March 6, 2009. Your sup- clinic. That physician is a J–1 visa doc- Special Immigrant Non-Minister Religious port is vital for the continuation of the Non- tor from Peru; bilingual—a very added Worker Visa Program through September 30, Minister Special Immigrant Religious Work- 2009. As you know, without congressional ac- er Visa program and for the service of its attractive feature to this physician’s tion, this important program is set to expire practice, but for a community that was beneficiaries on behalf of religious organiza- on March 6, 2009. tions and communities across the nation. so desperate for a physician, really a The Special Immigrant Non-Minister por- dream come true. tion of the Religious Worker Visa Program Thank you for your continuing support of Much about how to save lives, im- became law in 1990. Originally enacted with the Religious Worker Visa Program and your prove the health of Kansans and Amer- a sunset provision, it has enjoyed broad, bi- assistance in achieving a permanent exten- icans relate to this program. We have partisan support in Congress and has been sion of this program. reauthorized four times since then. tried for a number of years to extend Respectfully, Under this important program, up to 5,000 American Jewish Committee; Catholic the J–1 visa program longer than for a visas each year are available for religious Legal Immigration Network, Inc.; year at a time. And there are those workers employed by a broad range of reli- Church Communities International; who want to make changes, reallocate gious denominations and organizations. Reli- Conference of Major Superiors of Men; the physicians among States. The gious communities that participate in the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society; Lu- Conrad 30 program, the J–1 visa pro- program have found these special visas vital theran Immigration and Refugee Serv- gram, allocates 30 physicians per State to carrying out their work. The following are ice; Mennonite Central Committee, just a few examples of how large and small United States. in the country. The program is man- religious denominations and organizations aged by State agencies who make the National Association of Evangelicals; use the visas to benefit their own commu- National Spiritual Assembly of the determination and have some flexi- nities and the larger society: Bahai of the United States; The Church Catholic dioceses and Catholic institutes bility in determining the definition of of Scientology International; The First of religious men and women rely heavily what is underserved. Most often, it’s a Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, upon religious sisters, brothers, and lay mis- general practice, a family, internal MA; United Methodist Church, General sionaries from abroad, who are sponsored Board of Church and Society; World medicine doctor; but occasionally it’s a and qualify for these permanent residency Relief; U.S. Conference of Catholic specialist in an area that has no ability visas. Some fill a growing need in the Catho- Bishops. to attract and maintain a specialist, lic Church for those called to religious voca- maybe even at a university hospital tions. Others provide critical services to I would just briefly note that as to setting. local communities in areas including reli- the H–2B program, we are struggling So I come to the floor today to ex- gious education, and care for vulnerable pop- mightily to see if we can reach con- press my desire to see that the J–1 visa ulations such as the elderly, immigrants, ref- sensus on that. We have efforts under- program is extended and would tell you ugees, abused and neglected children, adolescents and families at risk. that it’s very much about saving the way. I can make no guarantee that we Jewish congregations, particularly in re- will be successful, but there are active lives of persons and very much about mote areas with small Jewish communities, increasing the chances that we improve rely on rabbis, cantors, kosher butchers, He- efforts underway to see if consensus the health of Americans across our brew school teachers, and other religious can be reached. country. workers who come from abroad through the As for the other issues raised, I would religious worker program. Without them, So I’m appreciative of the Judiciary just like to note that Mr. SMITH and I Committee bringing this bill to the many Jewish communities would be unable to sustain the institutions and practices that have worked very closely to make sure floor. I congratulate its author for that are essential to Jewish religious and com- that this program, the Religious Work- success, and I’m looking forward to munal life. ers Program, has integrity. And we seeing it work its way through a long Smaller religious communities rely on the now have 100 percent site visits for and always arduous process as we try visa, as well. For example, the lifetime vocation of members of the Church Communities every church that applies, which we to balance various States, various re- are advised informally by DHS, has gions of the country and a need for International, a religious communal order, really brought a much greater level of physicians across America with the includes a commitment to Christian brotherhood and faithful service through the provi- integrity to this system. And I think available physicians in this country. sion of emergency relief, housing assistance, So I appreciate being yielded to. I it’s a product of the work that we did food distribution, education, medical care, in the last Congress that helped us to thank the Speaker for the time I have counseling and mediation. To affect its min- had to speak in favor. I would like to istries, the order depends upon the ability af- be able to say that today. encourage my colleagues, whether forded by the program to relocate non-clergy So I urge support of this measure. religious members from its locations over- you’re from a rural area like me or an As for the reciprocity issue, I look urban area like many others, this pro- seas. Other religious denominations, such as the forward to hearing the ranking mem- gram matters in the lives of many Methodist and Baptist churches, The First ber’s proposals. I would just note, how- Americans. Church of Christ, Scientist, the Church of ever, that because Russia is not very Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Lu- Speaker, I would inquire if the gen- theran Church, the Hindu faith, the Church happy when we send evangelicals to tleman has additional speakers. of Scientology, and the Seventh Day Advent- their country, it doesn’t mean that we Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ist Church, also rely on the visas to bring in should deny Russian Orthodox believ- have no additional speakers. I support non-minister religious workers, who, in addi- ers in the United States the assistance tion to providing some of the same services of Russian Orthodox member this resolution. mentioned above, also work in areas as di- I yield back the remainder of my verse as teaching in church schools, temple laypeople. I think that we’ll work time. workers, producing religious publications, through these issues. This is an impor- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. sustaining prison ministries, and training tant step forward. And I urge its sup- Speaker, I would just urge, again, sup- health care professionals to provide reli- port. port for this measure. I would also like giously appropriate health care. Because of the increasingly diverse ethnic I yield back the balance of my time. to include in the RECORD a letter dated makeup of our religious congregations and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The today signed by a number of religious the nation as a whole, the special immigrant groups, including the Lutheran Immi- religious worker visa category is particu- question is on the motion offered by gration and Refugee Service, the Men- larly important in addressing the specific the gentlewoman from California (Ms. nonites, the National Association of pastoral and service-related needs of ethnic ZOE LOFGREN) that the House suspend Evangelicals, the U.S. Catholic Con- groups, including the Hispanic, Asian, and the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1127. African communities. A special category for ference of Catholic Bishops and others The question was taken; and (two- outlaying the need for religious work- non-minister religious workers is also necessary because religious organizations face thirds being in the affirmative) the ers in this country and urging support obstacles in using traditional employment rules were suspended and the bill was of the bill. immigration categories, which historically passed. MARCH 4, 2009. have not fit their unique situations. DEAR REPRESENTATIVE: We write to strong- We ask that you support H.R. 1127, which A motion to reconsider was laid on ly urge the House of Representatives to pass would extend this important program, prior the table.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.036 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2946 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- Castle Himes Mica Sires Thompson (CA) Wasserman VIDING FOR FURTHER CONSID- Castor (FL) Hinchey Michaud Skelton Thompson (MS) Schultz Chaffetz Hinojosa Miller (FL) Slaughter Thompson (PA) Waters ERATION OF H.R. 1106, HELPING Chandler Hirono Miller (MI) Smith (NE) Thornberry Watson FAMILIES SAVE THEIR HOMES Childers Hodes Miller (NC) Smith (NJ) Tiahrt Watt ACT OF 2009 Clarke Hoekstra Miller, George Smith (TX) Tiberi Waxman Clay Holden Minnick Smith (WA) Tierney Weiner Mr. CARDOZA, from the Committee Cleaver Holt Mitchell Snyder Titus Welch Souder Westmoreland on Rules, submitted a privileged report Clyburn Honda Mollohan Tonko Space Wexler Coble Hoyer Moore (KS) Towns (Rept. No. 111–23) on the resolution (H. Coffman (CO) Hunter Moore (WI) Spratt Whitfield Tsongas Res. 205) providing for consideration of Cohen Inglis Moran (KS) Stearns Wilson (OH) Turner Cole Inslee Moran (VA) Stupak Wilson (SC) the bill (H.R. 1106) to prevent mortgage Upton Conaway Israel Murphy (CT) Sullivan Wittman foreclosures and enhance mortgage Van Hollen Connolly (VA) Issa Murphy, Patrick Sutton Wolf ´ credit availability, which was referred Conyers Jackson (IL) Murphy, Tim Tanner Velazquez Woolsey to the House Calendar and ordered to Cooper Jackson-Lee Murtha Tauscher Visclosky Wu be printed. Costa (TX) Myrick Taylor Walden Yarmuth Costello Jenkins Nadler (NY) Teague Walz Young (AK) f Courtney Johnson (GA) Napolitano Terry Wamp Young (FL) Crenshaw Johnson (IL) Neal (MA) NOT VOTING—12 ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Crowley Johnson, E. B. Neugebauer PRO TEMPORE Cuellar Johnson, Sam Nunes Boyd Garrett (NJ) Perriello Culberson Jones Nye Campbell Hall (NY) Putnam The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Cummings Jordan (OH) Oberstar Davis (IL) McCollum Speier ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Dahlkemper Kagen Obey Ehlers Miller, Gary Stark Davis (AL) Kanjorski Olson will resume on motions to suspend the Davis (CA) Kaptur Olver b 1453 rules previously postponed. Davis (KY) Kennedy Ortiz So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Votes will be taken in the following Davis (TN) Kildee Pallone order: Deal (GA) Kilpatrick (MI) Pascrell tive) the rules were suspended and the DeFazio Kilroy Pastor (AZ) resolution was agreed to. House Resolution 201, by the yeas and DeGette Kind Paul nays; The result of the vote was announced Delahunt King (IA) Paulsen as above recorded. House Resolution 195, by the yeas and DeLauro King (NY) Payne nays; Dent Kingston Pence A motion to reconsider was laid on Diaz-Balart, L. Kirk Perlmutter the table. House Resolution 45, by the yeas and Diaz-Balart, M. Kirkpatrick (AZ) Peters nays. Dicks Kissell Peterson f The first electronic vote will be con- Dingell Klein (FL) Petri ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Doggett Kline (MN) Pingree (ME) RECOGNIZING THE HOMELAND SE- Donnelly (IN) Kosmas Pitts electronic votes will be conducted as 5- CURITY DEPARTMENT ON ITS Doyle Kratovil Platts SIXTH ANNIVERSARY minute votes. Dreier Kucinich Poe (TX) Proceedings on remaining postponed Driehaus Lamborn Polis (CO) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Duncan Lance Pomeroy finished business is the vote on the mo- motions to suspend will resume later. Edwards (MD) Langevin Posey tion to suspend the rules and agree to f Edwards (TX) Larsen (WA) Price (GA) Ellison Larson (CT) Price (NC) the resolution, H. Res. 195, on which RECOGNIZING BEVERLY ECKERT Ellsworth Latham Radanovich the yeas and nays were ordered. Emerson LaTourette Rahall FOR 9/11 VICTIMS WORK Engel Latta Rangel The Clerk read the title of the resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Eshoo Lee (CA) Rehberg Etheridge Lee (NY) Reichert The SPEAKER pro tempore. The finished business is the vote on the mo- Fallin Levin Reyes question is on the motion offered by tion to suspend the rules and agree to Farr Lewis (CA) Richardson the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. the resolution, H. Res. 201, on which Fattah Lewis (GA) Rodriguez Filner Linder Roe (TN) CARNEY) that the House suspend the the yeas and nays were ordered. Flake Lipinski Rogers (AL) rules and agree to the resolution, H. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Fleming LoBiondo Rogers (KY) Res. 195. tion. Forbes Loebsack Rogers (MI) This will be a 5-minute vote. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Fortenberry Lofgren, Zoe Rohrabacher Foster Lowey Rooney The vote was taken by electronic de- question is on the motion offered by Foxx Lucas Ros-Lehtinen vice, and there were—yeas 418, nays 0, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Frank (MA) Luetkemeyer Roskam not voting 13, as follows: PASCRELL) that the House suspend the Franks (AZ) Luja´ n Ross Frelinghuysen Lummis Rothman (NJ) [Roll No. 95] rules and agree to the resolution, H. Fudge Lungren, Daniel Roybal-Allard Res. 201. Gallegly E. Royce YEAS—418 The vote was taken by electronic de- Gerlach Lynch Ruppersberger Abercrombie Blackburn Capito vice, and there were—yeas 419, nays 0, Giffords Mack Rush Ackerman Blumenauer Capps Gingrey (GA) Maffei Ryan (OH) Aderholt Blunt Capuano not voting 12, as follows: Gohmert Maloney Ryan (WI) Adler (NJ) Boccieri Cardoza [Roll No. 94] Gonzalez Manzullo Salazar Akin Boehner Carnahan Goodlatte Marchant Sa´ nchez, Linda Alexander Bonner Carney YEAS—419 Gordon (TN) Markey (CO) T. Altmire Bono Mack Carson (IN) Abercrombie Berry Broun (GA) Granger Markey (MA) Sanchez, Loretta Andrews Boozman Carter Ackerman Biggert Brown (SC) Graves Marshall Sarbanes Arcuri Boren Cassidy Aderholt Bilbray Brown, Corrine Grayson Massa Scalise Austria Boswell Castle Adler (NJ) Bilirakis Brown-Waite, Green, Al Matheson Schakowsky Baca Boucher Castor (FL) Akin Bishop (GA) Ginny Green, Gene Matsui Schauer Bachmann Boustany Chaffetz Alexander Bishop (NY) Buchanan Griffith McCarthy (CA) Schiff Bachus Brady (PA) Chandler Altmire Bishop (UT) Burgess Grijalva McCarthy (NY) Schmidt Baird Brady (TX) Childers Andrews Blackburn Burton (IN) Guthrie McCaul Schock Baldwin Braley (IA) Clarke Arcuri Blumenauer Butterfield Gutierrez McClintock Schrader Barrett (SC) Bright Clay Austria Blunt Buyer Hall (TX) McCotter Schwartz Barrow Broun (GA) Cleaver Baca Boccieri Calvert Halvorson McDermott Scott (GA) Bartlett Brown (SC) Clyburn Bachmann Boehner Camp Hare McGovern Scott (VA) Barton (TX) Brown, Corrine Coble Bachus Bonner Cantor Harman McHenry Sensenbrenner Bean Brown-Waite, Coffman (CO) Baird Bono Mack Cao Harper McHugh Serrano Becerra Ginny Cohen Baldwin Boozman Capito Hastings (FL) McIntyre Sessions Berkley Buchanan Cole Barrett (SC) Boren Capps Hastings (WA) McKeon Sestak Berman Burgess Conaway Barrow Boswell Capuano Heinrich McMahon Shadegg Berry Burton (IN) Connolly (VA) Bartlett Boucher Cardoza Heller McMorris Shea-Porter Biggert Butterfield Conyers Barton (TX) Boustany Carnahan Hensarling Rodgers Sherman Bilbray Buyer Cooper Bean Brady (PA) Carney Herger McNerney Shimkus Bilirakis Calvert Costa Becerra Brady (TX) Carson (IN) Herseth Sandlin Meek (FL) Shuler Bishop (GA) Camp Costello Berkley Braley (IA) Carter Higgins Meeks (NY) Shuster Bishop (NY) Cantor Courtney Berman Bright Cassidy Hill Melancon Simpson Bishop (UT) Cao Crenshaw

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.038 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2947 Crowley Johnson, E. B. Nunes Thompson (PA) Visclosky Wexler Dahlkemper Kagen Olson Cuellar Johnson, Sam Nye Thornberry Walden Whitfield Davis (AL) Kanjorski Olver Culberson Jones Oberstar Tiahrt Walz Wilson (OH) Davis (CA) Kaptur Ortiz Cummings Jordan (OH) Obey Tiberi Wamp Wilson (SC) Davis (KY) Kennedy Pallone Dahlkemper Kagen Olson Tierney Wasserman Wittman Davis (TN) Kildee Pascrell Davis (AL) Kanjorski Olver Titus Schultz Wolf Deal (GA) Kilpatrick (MI) Pastor (AZ) Davis (CA) Kaptur Ortiz Tonko Waters Woolsey DeFazio Kilroy Paul Davis (KY) Kennedy Pallone Towns Watson Wu DeGette Kind Paulsen Tsongas Watt Davis (TN) Kildee Pascrell Yarmuth Delahunt King (IA) Payne Turner Waxman Deal (GA) Kilpatrick (MI) Pastor (AZ) Young (AK) DeLauro King (NY) Pence DeFazio Kilroy Paul Upton Weiner Young (FL) Dent Kingston Perlmutter DeGette Kind Paulsen Van Hollen Welch Diaz-Balart, L. Kirk Peters Delahunt King (IA) Payne Vela´ zquez Westmoreland Diaz-Balart, M. Kirkpatrick (AZ) Peterson DeLauro King (NY) Pence NOT VOTING—13 Dicks Kissell Petri Dent Kingston Perlmutter Dingell Klein (FL) Pingree (ME) Diaz-Balart, L. Kirk Peters Boyd Hall (NY) Putnam Doggett Kline (MN) Pitts Diaz-Balart, M. Kirkpatrick (AZ) Peterson Campbell Larson (CT) Speier Donnelly (IN) Kosmas Platts Dicks Kissell Petri Davis (IL) McCollum Stark Doyle Kratovil Poe (TX) Dingell Klein (FL) Pingree (ME) Ehlers Miller, Gary Dreier Kucinich Polis (CO) Doggett Kline (MN) Pitts Garrett (NJ) Perriello Driehaus Lamborn Pomeroy Donnelly (IN) Kosmas Platts Duncan Lance Posey ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Doyle Kratovil Poe (TX) Edwards (MD) Langevin Price (GA) Dreier Kucinich Polis (CO) The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Edwards (TX) Larsen (WA) Price (NC) Driehaus Lamborn Pomeroy the vote). Members are reminded there Ellison Latham Radanovich Duncan Lance Posey are 2 minutes remaining in this vote. Ellsworth LaTourette Rahall Edwards (MD) Langevin Price (GA) Emerson Latta Rehberg Edwards (TX) Larsen (WA) Price (NC) Engel Lee (CA) Reichert Ellison Latham Radanovich b 1503 Eshoo Lee (NY) Reyes Ellsworth LaTourette Rahall So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Etheridge Levin Richardson Emerson Latta Rangel Fallin Lewis (CA) Rodriguez Engel Lee (CA) Rehberg tive) the rules were suspended and the Farr Lewis (GA) Roe (TN) Eshoo Lee (NY) Reichert resolution was agreed to. Fattah Linder Rogers (AL) Etheridge Levin Reyes The result of the vote was announced Filner Lipinski Rogers (KY) Fallin Lewis (CA) Richardson as above recorded. Flake LoBiondo Rohrabacher Farr Lewis (GA) Rodriguez Fleming Loebsack Rooney Fattah Linder Roe (TN) A motion to reconsider was laid on Forbes Lofgren, Zoe Ros-Lehtinen Filner Lipinski Rogers (AL) the table. Fortenberry Lowey Roskam Flake LoBiondo Rogers (KY) Foster Lucas Ross Fleming Loebsack Rogers (MI) f Foxx Luetkemeyer Rothman (NJ) Forbes Lofgren, Zoe Rohrabacher Frank (MA) Luja´ n Roybal-Allard Fortenberry Lowey Rooney NATIONAL CRIMINAL JUSTICE Franks (AZ) Lummis Royce Foster Lucas Ros-Lehtinen Frelinghuysen Lungren, Daniel Ruppersberger Foxx Luetkemeyer Roskam MONTH Fudge E. Rush Frank (MA) Luja´ n Ross The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Gallegly Lynch Ryan (OH) Franks (AZ) Lummis Rothman (NJ) finished business is the vote on the mo- Gerlach Mack Ryan (WI) Frelinghuysen Lungren, Daniel Roybal-Allard Giffords Maffei Salazar Fudge E. Royce tion to suspend the rules and agree to Gingrey (GA) Maloney Sa´ nchez, Linda Gallegly Lynch Ruppersberger the resolution, H. Res. 45, on which the Gohmert Manzullo T. Gerlach Mack Rush yeas and nays were ordered. Gonzalez Marchant Sanchez, Loretta Giffords Maffei Ryan (OH) Goodlatte Markey (CO) Sarbanes Gingrey (GA) Maloney Ryan (WI) The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Gordon (TN) Markey (MA) Scalise Gohmert Manzullo Salazar tion. Granger Marshall Schakowsky Gonzalez Marchant Sa´ nchez, Linda The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Graves Massa Schauer Goodlatte Markey (CO) T. question is on the motion offered by Grayson Matheson Schiff Gordon (TN) Markey (MA) Sanchez, Loretta Green, Al Matsui Schmidt Granger Marshall Sarbanes the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Green, Gene McCarthy (CA) Schock Graves Massa Scalise ZOE LOFGREN) that the House suspend Griffith McCarthy (NY) Schrader Grayson Matheson Schakowsky the rules and agree to the resolution, Grijalva McCaul Schwartz Green, Al Matsui Schauer Guthrie McClintock Scott (GA) Green, Gene McCarthy (CA) Schiff H. Res. 45. Gutierrez McCotter Scott (VA) Griffith McCarthy (NY) Schmidt This will be a 5-minute vote. Hall (TX) McDermott Sensenbrenner Grijalva McCaul Schock The vote was taken by electronic de- Halvorson McGovern Serrano Guthrie McClintock Schrader vice, and there were—yeas 415, nays 0, Hare McHenry Sessions Gutierrez McCotter Schwartz Harman McHugh Sestak Hall (TX) McDermott Scott (GA) not voting 16, as follows: Harper McIntyre Shadegg Halvorson McGovern Scott (VA) [Roll No. 96] Hastings (FL) McKeon Shea-Porter Hare McHenry Sensenbrenner Hastings (WA) McMahon Sherman Harman McHugh Serrano YEAS—415 Heinrich McMorris Shimkus Harper McIntyre Sessions Abercrombie Blumenauer Cardoza Heller Rodgers Shuler Hastings (FL) McKeon Sestak Ackerman Blunt Carnahan Hensarling McNerney Shuster Hastings (WA) McMahon Shadegg Aderholt Boccieri Carney Herger Meek (FL) Simpson Heinrich McMorris Shea-Porter Adler (NJ) Boehner Carson (IN) Herseth Sandlin Meeks (NY) Sires Heller Rodgers Sherman Akin Bonner Carter Higgins Melancon Skelton Hensarling McNerney Shimkus Alexander Bono Mack Cassidy Hill Mica Slaughter Herger Meek (FL) Shuler Altmire Boozman Castle Himes Michaud Smith (NE) Herseth Sandlin Meeks (NY) Shuster Andrews Boren Castor (FL) Hinchey Miller (FL) Smith (NJ) Higgins Melancon Simpson Arcuri Boswell Chaffetz Hinojosa Miller (MI) Smith (TX) Hill Mica Sires Austria Boucher Chandler Hirono Miller (NC) Smith (WA) Himes Michaud Skelton Baca Boustany Childers Hodes Miller, George Snyder Hinchey Miller (FL) Slaughter Bachmann Brady (PA) Clarke Hoekstra Minnick Souder Hinojosa Miller (MI) Smith (NE) Bachus Brady (TX) Clay Holden Mitchell Space Hirono Miller (NC) Smith (NJ) Baird Braley (IA) Cleaver Holt Mollohan Spratt Hodes Miller, George Smith (TX) Baldwin Bright Clyburn Honda Moore (KS) Stearns Hoekstra Minnick Smith (WA) Barrett (SC) Broun (GA) Coble Hoyer Moore (WI) Stupak Holden Mitchell Snyder Barrow Brown (SC) Coffman (CO) Hunter Moran (KS) Sullivan Holt Mollohan Souder Bartlett Brown, Corrine Cohen Inglis Moran (VA) Sutton Honda Moore (KS) Space Barton (TX) Brown-Waite, Cole Inslee Murphy (CT) Tanner Hoyer Moore (WI) Spratt Bean Ginny Conaway Israel Murphy, Patrick Tauscher Hunter Moran (KS) Stearns Becerra Buchanan Connolly (VA) Issa Murphy, Tim Taylor Inglis Moran (VA) Stupak Berkley Burgess Conyers Jackson (IL) Murtha Teague Inslee Murphy (CT) Sullivan Berman Burton (IN) Cooper Jackson-Lee Myrick Terry Israel Murphy, Patrick Sutton Berry Butterfield Costa (TX) Nadler (NY) Thompson (CA) Issa Murphy, Tim Tanner Biggert Buyer Costello Jenkins Napolitano Thompson (MS) Jackson (IL) Murtha Tauscher Bilbray Calvert Courtney Johnson (GA) Neal (MA) Thompson (PA) Jackson-Lee Myrick Taylor Bilirakis Camp Crenshaw Johnson (IL) Neugebauer Thornberry (TX) Nadler (NY) Teague Bishop (GA) Cantor Crowley Johnson, E. B. Nunes Tiahrt Jenkins Napolitano Terry Bishop (NY) Cao Cuellar Johnson, Sam Nye Tiberi Johnson (GA) Neal (MA) Thompson (CA) Bishop (UT) Capito Culberson Jones Oberstar Tierney Johnson (IL) Neugebauer Thompson (MS) Blackburn Capps Cummings Jordan (OH) Obey Titus

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.011 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2948 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 Tonko Wasserman Wilson (OH) I put my life on the line for this and the entire Watson family, as well Towns Schultz Wilson (SC) country along with my brothers and as the mayor and city council of Gas- Tsongas Waters Wittman Turner Watson Wolf sisters in the military so such ill wish- tonia. We have all lost a true states- Upton Watt Woolsey ers could say whatever they wanted to. man and a great leader. Van Hollen Waxman Wu The minority’s wishing that President Vela´ zquez Weiner f Yarmuth Obama fail is wishing that our Nation Visclosky Welch Young (AK) PUTTING THE COUNTRY BACK ON Walden Westmoreland fails and inflames and ignites and di- Young (FL) TRACK Walz Wexler vides our great Nation. Wamp Whitfield This is the time for a debate of ideas (Mr. SCALISE asked and was given NOT VOTING—16 and solutions. In this great time of permission to address the House for 1 Boyd Hall (NY) Rangel need, I reject extremism that divides minute.) Campbell Larson (CT) Rogers (MI) our country, and we should all embrace Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, as we Capuano McCollum Speier a voice that unites us around a com- start to debate the budget that was Davis (IL) Miller, Gary Stark Ehlers Perriello mon thread: that despite all of our dis- submitted last week, I think a lot of Garrett (NJ) Putnam agreements, we are all still Americans. Americans all across the country and a lot of people here in this Chamber have ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE f some very serious concerns about the The SPEAKER pro tempore (during b 1515 the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- direction that this administration ing in this vote. TRIBUTE TO JAMES L. WATSON seems to be taking us in. This rampant spending and tax increases are dan- b 1512 (Mr. MCHENRY asked and was given gerous to our country and our economy permission to address the House for 1 So (two-thirds being in the affirma- at a time when we are having trouble minute and to revise and extend his re- and difficulty all across the land. tive) the rules were suspended and the marks.) resolution was agreed to. The last thing we need is a $1.4 tril- Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, my dis- lion tax increase, over $600 billion of The result of the vote was announced trict, Gaston County and the City of as above recorded. which would fall on the backs of every Gastonia lost a great leader when they small business owner in this country, A motion to reconsider was laid on lost three-term City Councilman the table. and over $600 billion in the form of a James L. Watson, who passed away carbon tax, a tax on energy, that every f this Wednesday. consumer in this country would pay in ‘‘Slug’’ Watson, as he was known, be- PERSONAL EXPLANATION higher utility rates. came a great baseball player in youth This is surely not the time to be rais- Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Madam and was always known as ‘‘Slug.’’ He ing taxes to the tune of over $1.4 tril- Speaker, on March 4, 2009. I missed two was a great friend of mine and an early lion on the backs of small businesses votes, that on H. Res. 195 (rollcall vote No. supporter of mine. He was an Army and families across this country. We 95) and H. Res. 45 (rollcall vote No. 96). Had veteran, president of his own small need to go in a better direction. We I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ for business and a community stalwart. will be proposing that, and hopefully both H. Res. 195, Recognizing and honoring Citizens of West Gastonia had no great- the administration will work with us the employees of the Department of Home- er friend and advocate than James to put us on a better path to get our land Security on its sixth anniversary for their Watson. country back on track. continuous efforts to keep the Nation safe, James was also an active member of and H. Res. 45, Raising awareness and pro- his church, where he was a deacon. f moting education on the criminal justice sys- Upon his election in 2003, his constitu- MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT tem by establishing March as ‘‘National Crimi- ents in Ward 6, the only area of Gas- Messages in writing from the Presi- nal Justice Month.’’ tonia that overlaps with my congres- dent of the United States were commu- f sional district, found themselves also nicated to the House by Ms. Evans, one served by a city councilman who had a of his secretaries. DESPITE OUR DISAGREEMENTS, passion for service and loved helping f WE ARE ALL STILL AMERICANS people. Slug showed us all persever- (Mr. BOCCIERI asked and was given ance. He ran three times for city coun- SPECIAL ORDERS permission to address the House for 1 cil and lost, but he was elected three The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under minute and to revise and extend his re- times after that. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- marks.) James left his native Gastonia to serve our uary 6, 2009, and under a previous order Mr. BOCCIERI. Mr. Speaker, many country in the Army and later went on to earn of the House, the following Members economic indicators show that our a degree in Small Business from the Univer- will be recognized for 5 minutes each. country is in her greatest time of need sity of South Carolina. f since the Great Depression, with too Upon returning, he embarked on a success- many citizens unemployed, losing their ful business career with several firms, culmi- THE RED COATS ARE COMING— homes and their jobs, and they’re look- nating in the founding of Watco of Gastonia, a THE RED COATS ARE COMING ing to us here in Washington for lead- parts company of which he was the President The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ership. and Owner for the past 24 years. previous order of the House, the gen- I become increasingly alarmed when Citizens of West Gastonia had no greater tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) is recog- I hear the voice of divisive mainstream friend or advocate than James Watson. He nized for 5 minutes. media hosts attempting to inspire oth- was a stalwart in the community for decades. Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ers to join them in wishing failure he served on the Shiele Museum Board of should inform you that the Red Coats upon our government, our elected Trustees, The Gastonia Recreation Advisory are coming! The Red Coats are coming! President, and our country in crisis. To Board, was on the first Executive Board of The United States Capitol once again wish failure on our elected leaders is to Gastonia Community Watch Association, was has been invaded by the Red Coats. I wish failure upon our financial mar- past President of the Hunter Huss High am not talking about Prime Minister kets, our businesses, our workers, and School Booster Club, and was a Shriner. He Gordon Brown who spoke to this as- our children. was also an active member of Maranatha sembly this morning. I am not talking Ironically, during the debate leading Baptist Church where he was a former Dea- about the fact that the British came to the Iraq war conflict, many of the con. and burned this building in 1814. No, same ‘‘opinion leaders’’ suggested that In politics, I learned a real lesson from not at all. But the Nation’s Capitol is anyone who held a contrary opinion to James, that of persistence. He ran for City simply being taken away from the the President about going to war was Council three times before he was victorious. American people. somehow uninspired, unpatriotic, and I want to extend my condolences to The new Capitol Visitors Center, the even un-American. his wife of nearly 50 years, Carolyn, CVC as they call themselves, opened its

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.009 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2949 doors in December of 2008, and since by the Red Coats are not the way to do and in accordance with international that day many new bureaucratic rules it. standards. have been decreed. These new regula- I recently signed a letter that is Some disagree with this decision to tions infringe on the American people’s being sponsored by Mr. KIRK and Mr. reopen Abu Ghraib. They say it should right to visit this Capitol. It is their LOEBSACK that outlines just a few of have been turned into a museum to building. It doesn’t belong to us or to these ridiculous regulations. This let- document the crimes that took place the Red Coats. ter, bipartisan, of course, goes to Mr. there. Others say it should have been Mr. Speaker, there once was a time Ayers, the acting Architect of the Cap- simply knocked down. But the Iraqi when a family would come from my itol, who is the chief Red Coat. Government says it must keep the fa- district. They would show up at my of- Member offices have little control cility because it actually needs the fice and they would ask to see the Cap- over scheduling tours. Once in awhile space. itol. Myself or a staffer would bring somebody will just show up in my of- The renovations are designed to re- them over to the Capitol, take them fice and they want to go see this build- move any reminders of the terrible vio- through these mighty halls by showing ing. It is their first and only trip to lations of human rights that took place them the statues of the two famous Washington. You can’t do that any- at Abu Ghraib when it was under U.S. people from Texas, Stephen F. Austin more. You have got to get on a list and control. Those violations did a great and Sam Houston, giving them a peak you have got to make that request a deal of damage, Mr. Speaker, to Amer- at the old Supreme Court Chamber, month ahead of time at least before ica’s reputation. Even worse, they sent and they could spend as much time in you can come into this building. Those a terrible signal to the world. The UN this building as they wanted to. But no ‘‘dropin’’ days are over, unfortunately, has reported that nondemocratic coun- more. Apparently the good old times because the Red Coat police are in tries have used U.S. actions in places have been replaced by censored, con- charge, and if they walk through the like Abu Ghraib to justify their own trolled tours which can only be given building and they get off the tour, the abuses. by the CVC staff, the Red Coats. Red Coat police dress them down. Mr. Speaker, the people of the world Now, before a staff member can even Late groups are often turned away. If expect America to offer a better exam- help on a tour of this Capitol, that per- a family misses their tour by a few ple than that. They expect us to work son must attend a 6-hour or 2-day-long minutes or the security lines are too for peace and to treat people with dig- propaganda school given by the CVC long and they don’t get there on time, nity and compassion. Red Coats. The actual tour that every- they may be out of luck and not even The Obama administration has al- body must see before they come into get in this building. They are sent ready taken important steps in that di- this building starts with an opening home to come back another time. Un- rection. The President has renounced video given by the Red Coats. It is a less they are trained by the CVC, con- torture. He has ordered the closing of controlled and censored video and a gressional staff members are no longer Guantanamo Bay. His administration controlled and censored trip through allowed to even give tours. And don’t has also released documents which this building. The theme opens in the forget those ‘‘reeducation sessions’’ show how the previous administration video by saying that the national last between 6 hours and 2 days. violated the constitutional rights of motto of the United States is ‘‘E According to a letter I just received the American people right here at Pluribus Unum’’, which means, accord- from the CEO of the Visitor Center, home. ing to the video, ‘‘Out of Many, One.’’ things are going pretty good, according President Obama has also pledged to Well, Mr. Speaker, I must have to them. They say thousands of people use diplomacy instead of war as the missed something. I thought that the are making reservations. Well, appar- first tool of American foreign policy. United States motto was directly ently that is true, because my staff as- He has signaled his willingness to talk above your head, which says ‘‘In God sistant is having an impossible time to Iran and Syria, two nations that we We Trust.’’ But not according to the booking tours for our constituents dur- must engage to create stability in the Red Coats. They just changed the na- ing the first week of April, spring Middle East. He is trying, Mr. Speaker, tional motto on their own. There is, in break, when most of them are coming to diffuse tensions with Russia, and fact, no mention of those words or reli- up here. And the Capitol, unfortu- Secretary of State Clinton has pledged gious history of our country in the en- nately, is not friendly anymore. a vigorous effort to kick-start the tire CVC complex. This includes their Mr. Speaker, the United States Cap- stalled peace process between Israel exhibit halls, which are supposed to itol belongs to the American people. It and the Palestinians. chronicle the real history of America. doesn’t belong to us. It doesn’t belong But there is still a lot more that we But the Red Coats have rewritten the to the Red Coats. It belongs to the just have to do. We must remove all of history of the United States and omit American people. And I am dis- our troops and military contractors religion or any reference to God. appointed in the new regulations from out of Iraq by August 2010. Leaving Once citizens watch the video, they the CVC and the disrespect that has 50,000 residual troops is unacceptable. are allowed into this building to go on been shown to the American people and The Iraqi people will view it as an en- their tour, as long as they do it on time Members of Congress. during occupation force and it will and they are not late. You can’t wan- Mr. Speaker, the Red Coats have ar- delay the reconciliation and the unifi- der around and get away from the Red rived and they are stealing the people’s cation the Iraqi people need. They need Coat tour guide like the old days. They Capitol away from America. That that to build stability and democracy get to spend a few minutes in the ro- ought not to be, but that’s just the way in their country. tunda, a few minutes in Statuary Hall it is. We must also redeploy our troops out and a couple of minutes in the crypt. f of Afghanistan and use humanitarian But that is it. There is no looking LET’S GIVE THE PEOPLE OF THE assistance instead of military force to around at the paintings by Brumidi in achieve our goals there. the hallways. And if your State statue WORLD DIGNITY AND OPPOR- is not on the controlled tour, you are TUNITY b 1530 out of luck. You don’t get to see it. Un- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Every expert on Afghanistan knows fortunately, now one of Texas’ statues previous order of the House, the gentle- that foreign military intervention is off the approved route. I guess my woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) never succeeds in that part of the constituents will just have to become a is recognized for 5 minutes. world. Helping the Afghan people to Member of Congress before they will Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, the build schools and roads will work a lot ever get to see it. Iraqi Government is reopening the in- better than sending in more troops. Mr. Speaker, I believe that we should famous Abu Ghraib prison. It has been I’ve also called for a worldwide make visiting our Capitol a safe and renovated to include computers, rec- ceasefire or ‘‘time-out’’ to give diplo- pleasurable experience for all constitu- reational areas, a library and a barber macy, to give humanitarian assistance ents and all Americans everywhere, shop for the prisoners. The Iraqis and conflict resolution a chance to and these politically correct positions promise to treat prisoners humanely work. By intensifying our efforts in

VerDate Nov 24 2008 00:55 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.052 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2950 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 these areas, Mr. Speaker, our efforts of form of higher prices for energy, food, was an earmark in the stimulus bill. ‘‘soft power’’ or ‘‘smart power’’ and re- lodging and everything else. There are none. And there certainly ducing the size of our military, we can Senator Obama, when he was in the wasn’t one for a mob museum. There move towards a conflict-free world. Senate, admitted during the presi- was never a mention of it in the stim- Mr. Speaker, President Obama has dential campaign, said, ‘‘Under my ulus package. But the lies continued. said, and I quote him, ‘‘We have a sig- plan of cap-and-trade, electricity rates And then we found out about the nificant stake in ensuring that those would necessarily skyrocket.’’ maglev train. Countless Republicans who live in fear and want today can And on Fox the other night, Jim have misrepresented the $8 billion in- live with dignity and opportunity to- Angle was reporting on the cap-and- cluded in the stimulus bill as being an morrow.’’ trade issue, and he said, ‘‘Almost every earmark for the Las Vegas-Anaheim The President is right. Instead of activity in the U.S. economy emits car- maglev route. The only problem is, bombs, instead of bullets, let’s give the bon dioxide, but President Obama even after it was pointed out that there people of the world dignity and oppor- wants to impose a cap on total emis- is no earmark, that Las Vegas and tunity. That’s the way to defeat ter- sions throughout the economy and California are going to have to com- rorism. That’s the way to keep Amer- charge industry a new tax of at least pete with the other projects, that this ica safe, and that’s the way to ensure $65 billion a year for their current ac- has been a project that’s been in the peace around the globe. tivities.’’ works for 20 years, and that it will Now, when the President said he’s bring thousands of visitors to the Las f not going to tax anybody, any family Vegas area and to the Southern Cali- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a making under $250,000 a year, that’s er- fornia area, the lies continue. previous order of the House, the gen- roneous, because when you take the The latest one was Louisiana Gov- tleman from North Carolina (Mr. tax they’re going to have to pay indi- ernor Bobby Jindal. He repeated the lie JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. rectly for the cost of food, lodging, en- in his televised response to the Presi- (Mr. JONES addressed the House. His ergy of any kind, it’s going to result in dent’s remarks to Congress, claiming remarks will appear hereafter in the thousands and thousands of dollars to the bill included funding for a mag- Extensions of Remarks.) every family. netic levitation line from Las Vegas to f When you turn on your lights in your Disneyland. That is absolute nonsense. And then it goes one worse. Rep- DEMOCRATS’ CAP-AND-TRADE house, when this budget is passed, you will be paying much more money for resentative TRENT FRANKS just men- AMOUNTS TO A STEALTH EN- tioned today that there’s a maglev ERGY TAX ON EVERY AMERICAN your electricity. When you buy gasoline at the pump, you’re going to pay train going all the way from The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a more for your gasoline. When you get Disneyland to the Moonlit Bunny previous order of the House, the gen- fuel oil or coal or anything else that Brothel. Now, I grew up in Las Vegas. tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is you use for energy, you’re going to be I’ve never heard of the Moonlit Bunny recognized for 5 minutes. paying because of this tax that’s being Brothel. But I guarantee that maglev train is not going there. Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- passed in this budget by this President. And then the latest whipping boy is er, the President of the United States And it’s going to be on everybody, in the omnibus bill. Sustainable Las stood here in the well the other night, not just the people making under Vegas. Just yesterday Senator MCCAIN and one of the things he said that was $250,000. It’s going to be on everybody. took to the floor of the Senate to at- met with a great deal of applause was Every man, woman and child who lives that there wasn’t going to be one dime, tack Sustainable Las Vegas. What does in this country that uses energy will be Sustainable Las Vegas mean, he not one dime of new taxes on anybody taxed. And I think the American people making under $250,000 a year, any fam- yelled? need to know that. That’s why I’m Well, let me enlighten the Senator. ily making under $250,000 a year. down here on the floor, because when And yet what was omitted from his It’s a University of Nevada education they say they’re not going to raise and research program on energy sup- talk was the cost to every single per- your taxes, and that everybody making ply, water supply and air quality, very son because of a tax increase that’s under $250,000 is not going to pay one serious issues for the desert Southwest, kind of hidden. It’s called the cap-and- dime more in taxes, they’re not telling cities like Las Vegas and Phoenix and trade tax increase. And it’s going to you the whole story. You are going to Tucson. But the Senator knows that. cost about $65 billion a year. And it pay more in taxes and you’re going to So why is that program being singled deals with carbon dioxide emissions. pay through the nose. out? Why is it different from the hun- Every time we use coal or gas or any f dreds of other projects that are given substance to create energy in this to university research programs country, it emits carbon dioxide. And VEGAS IS MAD AND IS NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE throughout the United States, includ- so $65 billion in new taxes are going to ing universities in Arizona? Because it be levied on business that will be The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a has Las Vegas in its name. passed on to consumers in the form of previous order of the House, the gentle- And let me tell you about my home- higher prices on their electricity, their woman from Nevada (Ms. BERKLEY) is town of Las Vegas. It’s a community of gasoline, their oil, their food and al- recognized for 5 minutes. families looking for a better life, a most anything they buy, because any- Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, I’m mad community of schools and churches thing they buy is made from energy. and I’m not going to take it anymore. and mosques, Saturday soccer, a com- And the energy in this country is going I’ve had enough of my colleagues bash- munity of working people, small busi- to be taxed up to $65 billion a year with ing my district, my hometown and the nesses and beautiful hotels. this cap-and-trade tax that the Presi- community I love, Las Vegas. I’ve sat And that brings me to the most egre- dent’s got in his budget. The American back as Las Vegas has been maligned, gious affront to Las Vegas. Stop bad- people simply don’t realize that. insulted and lied about for the sole pur- mouthing Las Vegas, and stop telling Now, there was an interview that was pose of making political points. I’ve businesses and major companies to on Fox the other night. And I want to been waiting for common sense to pre- stay away from Vegas. You are hurting read to you just a little bit about that. vail. But I’m here to say that this non- our economy. You’re forcing major lay- First of all, let me just say that Peter sense, the bashing and the lies about offs of employees in the hotel industry. Orzag, the former CBO Director and Las Vegas have got to end, and they’ve Hundreds of thousands of Nevadans de- current OMB Director down at the got to end now. pend on the tourism and convention White House, verified that energy taxes It started with Senator MCCONNELL’s business for their livelihood. designed to decrease carbon emissions misguided attack on the stimulus bill Las Vegas has long been a city where like those in President Obama’s budget by singling out a mob museum in Las serious business is conducted, where will be passed on to American families, Vegas as an earmark in the stimulus small and large conventions can be ac- and this will be passed on in the form package. There’s only a couple of commodated. When it comes to busi- of higher prices to every family in the things wrong with that. There never ness meetings, Las Vegas is the best

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.054 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2951 city on the planet. You still get the Afghanistan, or Pakistan, will con- dent practices centered in the best bang for your buck. Great hotels, tinue to drain our financial resources, securitization process, itself, have done great convention facilities, great undermine our national defense, de- enormous damage domestically and transportation, great restaurants and a moralize our military and exacerbate internationally and have ripped neigh- great price. our financial crisis. All this will be borhoods and communities apart across When you badmouth Las Vegas, you welcomed by Osama Bin Laden, just as our Nation. The bill and related admin- are hurting our major industry, you’re he planned it. It’s actually more than istration actions adhere to and, indeed, hurting your fellow citizens. By taking he had hoped for. expand Wall Street securitization as away their livelihood, you are taking More likely the outcome will be that the fundamental architecture of our food out of their children’s mouths. greater than 50,000 Americans will be Nation’s mortgage and loan financial Las Vegas is having a very tough in Iraq in August of 2010, especially system. The continuation of this risky time right now. High mortgage fore- when the contractors are counted. Vio- and imprudent system has converted closure rate, high unemployment, high lence will accelerate. We will be an oc- poorly underwritten, poorly appraised bankruptcy rate; we are hurting. Every cupier at the end of 2011, and we will and poorly serviced mortgage loans, attack on Las Vegas by my colleagues remain a pariah in the Middle East. the majority a result of predatory lend- is a knife in the heart of my city. So I The war in Afghanistan and Pakistan ing practices to securitize bond instru- implore my colleagues, stop bashing will be much bigger, unless the dollar ments. Financial activity and equity Las Vegas. Find some other whipping follows the path of the dollar-based have been drawn out of local regions boy. We’ve had enough. We’re not going world financial system and collapses and have been concentrated in a very to take it anymore. into runaway inflation. In this case, few irresponsible and likely fraudulent, f the laws of economics and the realities in many cases, Wall Street money cen- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a of history will prove superior to the ter banks. The vast majority of troubled previous order of the House, the gen- madness of maintaining a world empire financed by scraps of paper. subprime mortgages are held by insti- tleman from Virginia (Mr. WOLF) is tutions whose names you know— recognized for 5 minutes. Our military prowess, backed by a JPMorgan, Bank of America, (Mr. WOLF addressed the House. His nuclear arsenal, will not suffice in Citigroup, HSBC, Wachovia, Wells remarks will appear hereafter in the overcoming the tragedy of a currency Fargo—and the proximate cause of the Extensions of Remarks.) crisis. Soviet nukes did not preserve its empire or the communist economy. severe economic downturn our Nation f This crisis demands that we quickly is experiencing in the mortgage fore- THE END IS NOT NEAR come to our senses and reject the for- closure crisis and its consequential eign policy of interventionism. Neither seize-up of credit is due to the prac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a credit coming from a Federal Reserve tices of those institutions. previous order of the House, the gen- computer nor dollars coming from a That seize-up is due to widespread tleman from Texas (Mr. PAUL) is recog- printing press can bail us out of this uncertainty about valuing mortgages nized for 5 minutes. mess. Only the rule of law, commodity on the ledgers of those financial insti- Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, the end of money and liberty can do that. tutions and others across our country. the war is not near. I might ask, are Mr. Speaker, let’s consider rein- Until that uncertainty is repaired by the troops coming home from Iraq as stating the Constitution before it’s too employing the skills of the Federal De- promised? Not quite. Sixteen months is late. posit Insurance Corporation and by too quick, so the plan now is to do it in true value accounting at the Securities 34 months. The administration claims f and Exchange Commission, any bill we all the troops will be out of Iraq by the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a might consider here merely bites at the end of 2011. Sure they will. previous order of the House, the gen- edges of a systemic reform that will We’re told that 50,000 U.S. troops will tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is fall far short of what is needed. Any still be in Iraq in August of 2010, and recognized for 5 minutes. major housing bill may be evaluated by we’re supposed to cheer. We’re told (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. whether it contributes to reforming that they won’t be combat troops, so His remarks will appear hereafter in this fundamental financial architec- we’re to believe that means they won’t the Extensions of Remarks.) ture that has brought our economy to be exposed to any danger. If they are f this point. non-combat troops, does that mean Responsible lending requires that our they are bureaucrats, policemen, HOUSING AND BANKRUPTCY financial system re-empower the local teachers or soldiers without weapons? The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a banking, local underwriting and local This will hardly satisfy the Iraqis, who previous order of the House, the gentle- mortgage markets first. Such a reform resent any foreign troops at all in their woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is rec- plan should be a foundation stone that country. A U.S. puppet government ognized for 5 minutes. precedes any legislation that proposes protected by 50,000 American soldiers is Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, please let to transfer hundreds of billions of dol- not the road to peace. me share with you concerns regarding lars more to the very money center Will the Iranian-friendly Shiite ma- the bill, H.R. 1106, on housing and banks and servicing companies that jority not be motivated to take advan- bankruptcy that were rolled together, have produced the chaos that ails our tage of the instability we have created? four bills rolled together into one like- mortgage lending system. Reform must Will the 100,000 Sunni militants we ly to come before the House for consid- come first, not last. No matter how arm and subsidize continue to obey our eration tomorrow. well-intentioned any housing bill is, wishes? It sounds to me like a powder there must be a broader policy context b 1545 keg exists with the indecisiveness of in which it is advanced. our Iraqi policy. First of all, the bill continues and re- Number 2, the vast majority of peo- There is no intention to close the inforces the seriously flawed mortgage ple in foreclosure are not in bank- dozens of military bases that now securitization approach to the U.S. ruptcy. Different regions of our Nation exist. The world’s biggest embassy will housing market. The overarching con- are likely to be impacted differently, remain in Baghdad and incite contin- centration and securitization of the and this bill will not help them, and I ued resentment toward the American housing mortgage market by Wall place in the RECORD plenty of informa- occupation. Our soldiers will remain Street bond houses and money center tion about that. easy targets of the rightfully angry na- banks are continued in the bill rather Number 3, the bill will not bring pri- tionalists. than replaced by an approach that re- vate-sector lenders back to the mort- Our presence will serve as an incen- stores prudent Main Street lending gage market. Thus, it will not restore tive for al Qaeda to grow in numbers practices again. confidence across the troubled credit and motivate more suicide bombers. An Our housing finance system is far too markets. You could see that the Presi- indefinite presence, whether in Iraq, concentrated. Its system-wide imprudent announced the program last

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.057 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2952 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 month, and the market has already displaced by an approach that restores ‘‘Main only some mortgage holders whose mort- counted it; the dollar has been further Street Prudent Lending’’ practices. Our hous- gages happen to be held by Fannie Mae and driven down, and our stock markets ing finance system is far too concentrated. Its Freddie Mac. The majority of mortgages not are even weaker. system-wide imprudent practices, centered in held by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will not Number 4, the bill actually cherry- the securitization process, have done enor- be addressed by the Obama plan. This omis- picks mortgage winners and losers mous damage domestically and internationally, sion represents the vast majority of subprime, while cramming down the bankruptcy and have ripped neighborhoods and commu- troubled mortgages in our nation. Federal tax- option for others, denying equal justice nities apart across our nation. payer-funded subsidies, thus, will flow to help under property law to all. The bill This bill, and related Administration actions workout only those loans held by federally throws the far larger numbers of home- (e.g., the SBA loan securitization provisions of guaranteed secondary market instrumental- owners with non Fannie Mae and the Recovery Act) adhere to and, indeed, ex- ities. Freddie Mac troubled loans to the pand ‘‘Wall St. securitization’’ as the funda- Furthermore, the complexity of this bill bankruptcy courts, almost like a mental architecture of our nation’s mortgage means as well as the Obama plan any bene- cramdown, presuming their culpa- and loan financial system. The continuation of fits are likely to be uneven rather than sys- bility, while doing nothing to ascertain this risky and imprudent system has converted temic. Some loans owned by Freddie and lender and servicer performance or poorly underwritten, poorly appraised, poorly Fannie will be targeted; the vaster number of even guilt in the mortgage contract. In serviced mortgage ‘‘loans’’—the majority a re- subprime loans will not be considered. In redoing so, the bill denies millions of our sult of predatory lending practices—to gions like Ohio, where the recession has worn citizens immediate, full legal rights securitized ‘‘bond’’ instruments. Financial ac- on and deepened over this decade, it is un- and representation in legal pro- tivity and equity have been drawn out of local clear who may benefit. At best there are rough ceedings. regions and concentrated in a few very irre- estimates available now, state by state, as to Number 5, irresponsible and likely sponsible, and likely fraudulent, Wall Street how many loans may be eligible or affected. fraudulent lenders and servicers should and money center banks. A handful of these Most of the borrowers who aren’t in either not be rewarded with any more tax- investments houses, which have brought our FNMA/Freddie will be out of luck in the payer-funded money as the bill does. nation to the financial edge, have converted Obama plan. States like Ohio and Michigan Again, we should be using the FDIC very recently to bank holding companies to could be absent workout assistance again, or and the SEC as they were properly income under the cover of federal insurance with minimal impact, as they have been under tended, and that is not being done. protection. the Hope for Homeowners Bill, rushed through You know, one of the questions we The vast majority of troubled subprime mort- Congress last July, wherein only 25 home- can ask under this bill is: How will gages are held by the following irresponsible, owners have been assisted. It is conceivable Treasury and HUD pick who gets prin- money center institutions or subsidiaries they that many greedy consumers, whose loans cipal awarded and who doesn’t under created—JP Morgan Chase, Bank of America, happen to be owned by Fannie and Freddie, this bill to try to work out a few of the Citigroup, HSBC, and Wachovia, Wells Fargo. could be helped, while the majority of families loans that are out there? The proximate cause of the severe economic in states like Ohio, where foreclosures are ris- Number 6, this proposal creates a fu- downturn our nation is experiencing is the ing, will not get help as their loans are largely ture private market incentive to dump mortgage foreclosure crisis and consequential subprime. What is fair about this? troubled loans to Fannie Mae and seize up of credit across our nation’s financial The 3rd concern is the bill will not bring pri- Freddie Mac that does not restore the system. This is due to widespread uncertainty vate sector lenders back into the mortgage market discipline that is necessary. about valuing mortgages on the ledgers of fi- market. Thus, it will not restore confidence Number 7, there are no provisions in nancial institutions. Until that uncertainty is re- across the troubled credit markets. the bill to recoup funds to the U.S. tax- paired, any bill that merely bites at the edges Why? This bill is uneven, lacks clarity, and payer for the significant cost of this of systemic reform will fall short of what is re- is even confusing in picking who might be as- bill. The banks, actually, in one provi- quired. sisted, and who might not be assisted. Thus, sion in the bill will get a little bit if a Any major ‘‘housing’’ bill must be evaluated the bill will cause more market disruption. As mortgage appreciates in value once it’s by whether it contributes to reforming this fun- in the Obama plan’s announcement last sold, but the government will get noth- damental financial architecture that has month, it was discounted by the market and ing. brought our economy to this point. If not, it will already has further driven down the value of Finally, the cost estimates of this not restore a rigorous and prudent lending the dollar and our stock markets. The market bill are truly questionable. The admin- model for home loan origination and servicing, knows this bill will not address the funda- istration says maybe it might cost $275 with disciplined secondary markets. If reform mental problems of seized credit markets and billion, but in truth, that is only a does not occur, financial power will continue to lack of interbank confidence plaguing our guess. If home values continue to be concentrated on Wall Street and money banking system. plummet and the plan does not succeed center institutions, and equity drawn away The 4th concern is the Obama plan cherry in whole or in part, it is likely that the from to local communities. Responsible lend- picks mortgage winners and losers, while this cost of the bill will be much higher. ing requires that our financial system re-em- bill crams down the bankruptcy option for oth- What about if Freddie and Fannie loans power the local banking, underwriting, and ers, denying equal justice in property law to redefault? Already, the administration mortgage markets. Such a reform plan should all. As a last resort this bill throws home- is asking for another $400 million of ad- be the foundation stone that precedes any leg- owners to the bankruptcy courts—almost like ditional guarantee authority in those islation that proposes to transfer hundreds of a cramdown presuming their culpability—while instrumentalities. billions of dollars more to the money center doing nothing to ascertain lender and servicer In sum, our citizens deserve full jus- banks and servicing companies that produced performance, and even guilt, in the mortgage tice, not a continuing reliance on the the chaos that ails our mortgage lending sys- contract. In so doing, the bill denies millions of very institutions that brought us to tem. Reform must come first, no last. No mat- our citizens full legal rights and representation this fork in the road. ter how well intentioned any housing bill, there in legal proceedings about their Mortgage con- Mr. Speaker, tomorrow, the House is sched- must be a broader policy context in which it is tract—as well as a complete mortgage audit. uled to vote on H.R. 1106 advanced. The courts should weigh the interests of all Please let me share with you 8 concerns I The 2nd concern is the vast majority of peo- parties in the mortgage contract. Normal judi- have regarding the 4 bills that have now been ple in foreclosure are not in bankruptcy. Dif- cial proceedings could yield that. The bank- rolled into one to address the mortgage fore- ferent regions of our nation are likely to be im- ruptcy option relegates normal judicial pro- closure crisis and its bankruptcy provisions. pacted differently. This bill will not help them. ceedings to second place to determine lender The first concern is the bill continues, and The bill’s partial and confusing approach to culpability. Mortgagors need primary attention reinforces, the seriously flawed ‘‘mortgage who will be helped, and who will not be helped not secondary and equal legal representation securitization’’ approach to the U.S. housing in their housing situation, will exacerbate the when confronting Wall Street megabanks and market. economic crisis, not ease it. Far from being a servicers, as mortgage fraud and predatory The overarching concentration and systemic solution to the housing credit and practices pervaded the sick housing system ‘‘Securitization of the housing mortgage mar- foreclosure crisis, this bill cherry picks some America faces today. This bill throws citizens ket by Wall Street’’ bond houses and money ‘‘winners’’ who will achieve mortgage work- into bankruptcy court before real justice and center banks are continued rather than re- outs. The anticipated Obama plan will address transparency of the mortgage instrument as a

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.063 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2953 contract is unwound in a court of law. Are bor- requesting increased guarantee authority on ping the heat in, it just may be that rowers the only party to the mortgage con- both be raised a total of $400 billion more. An those carbon dioxide/greenhouse gases tract? The bill does not provide equal justice overriding concern remains that most are causing the sun to bounce off into as lenders, banks, and servicers responsible subprime loans at the heart of the foreclosure space and that they may be cooling the are held harmless legally, and some even pro- crisis are not held by FNMA/FreddieMac. Lack planet. They’re going to have it either vided funding. What unequal justice is this? of resolution in that segment of the market will way, apparently. It’s warming. It’s The 5th concern is irresponsible and likely further pull down home values and exacerbate cooling. They want to be alarmists be- fraudulent lenders and servicers should not be the situation. To add some perspective, there cause that allows a socialist agenda to rewarded with more taxpayer-funded money, is a real question as to whether the $75 billion come forward, and it allows the govern- as the Obama plan does. The normal federal dedicated to loan modifications will be signifi- ment to become big brother and run ev- institutions skilled in mortgage workouts, and cant enough to right the market. Ohio alone erything. bank insolvencies, should be engaged—the needs $20 billion to fill its housing finance You know, the wonderful Democratic Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and gap. This plan might help places like California Party member teachers who I had the Securities and Exchange Commission. where the housing bubble burst but its impact growing up, they were fantastic. In Lenders and servicers should be required in Ohio is unclear, where the recession has junior high, we were talking about pho- by legislation to participate in mortgage work- dragged on for 8 years. People need adjusted tosynthesis and how a plant can take outs. Our government shouldn’t be paying home mortgage, and even rent-to-own rental carbon dioxide and end up producing lenders or servicers anything to get them to schedules. These must be negotiated one by oxygen out of the process. It would participate. It is likely mortgage and account- one. The Administration plan will not help the seem that it would be cyclical. If you ing fraud were endemic across several institu- vast majority of underwater homeowners be- look at the patterns of the Earth, what tions, as well as lack of proper reporting back cause their plan is not systemic in its ap- we have are cycles up and down. The to mortgagors under the Truth in Lending and proach. temperature goes up, and the tempera- Real Estate Practices Act. Frankly, workouts In sum, this bill and the Obama plan do little ture goes down over time—back up and systemwide should have been occurring in the to nothing to address the fundamental cause down. You have more greenery. More time-proven way—by engaging FDIC’s full of crisis—widespread and overuse of con- carbon dioxide will apparently help powers along with updating the SEC’s ap- centrated securitization practices, mortgage that to grow. Then if we get too much, proach to true value accounting for real estate and appraisal fraud, and the seize up of credit we’ll start having too much oxygen and loans held on the books of lenders. As this still markets due to improper use of federal instru- not enough carbon dioxide. It’s just is not being done, the economic harm gets mentalities in attempting to resolve the situa- amazing how nature addresses these worse daily. The TARP Bailout gave power to tion. issues by having cycles where it comes the wrong federal department to handle real Our citizens deserve full justice, not con- and it goes. estate workouts. Treasury had had no experi- tinuing reliance on the very institutions that But if you’re in government and you ence in real estate lending. Treasury has brought us to this fork in the road. want to control everything, you have got to scare people. You have got to never been the appropriate federal agency to f do bank and mortgage workouts. Its focus has have people alarmed, and that’s what The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a always been Wall Street. Their record since we’re hearing over and over here on the previous order of the House, the gen- TARP has demonstrated they have done noth- floor of the House: Let’s scare America. tleman from California (Mr. CALVERT) ing to get the banks and servicers to the table Let’s make them be afraid of carbon di- is recognized for 5 minutes. to do workouts as a result of the billions the oxide because—guess what. If we really (Mr. CALVERT addressed the House. banks have received from TARP. Now, under had the responsibility of regulating His remarks will appear hereafter in the Obama plan, how will Treasury and HUD carbon dioxide, I can tell you from per- the Extensions of Remarks.) pick who gets principal funds and who sonal experience there are some people doesn’t? f around here who are breathing too much. We’re going to have to cut out The 6th concern in the Obama plan creates FEAR MONGERING a future private market incentive to dump trou- some of this breathing because there’s bled loans to FNMA and Freddie. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a a whole lot of breathing going on, and In the way this legislation favors loans held previous order of the House, the gen- that’s too much carbon dioxide. That is by FNMA and Freddie Mac, it does not restore tleman from Texas (Mr. GOHMERT) is how absurd it has been getting. You prudent lending rigor to the marketplace, but recognized for 5 minutes. know, Congress is not the answer to ev- signals that the government will become the Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, you erything that’s wrong with the world. dumpster for troubled loans. Again, this bill’s know, we have heard so much about It’s just not. architecture sends the wrong message to the global warming for so long. It is inter- Then we’ve got this omnibus spend- market. esting, though: We’re now hearing the ing bill that was passed last week. The 7th concern is there no provisions in term ‘‘climate change.’’ Has anybody Maybe the Senate passes it tomorrow the Obama plan to recoup funds to the U.S. started to ask why we’re no longer night. It was irresponsible. It was im- taxpayer for the significant cost of the bill. hearing about global warming as being moral. We as a generation, in effect, Any federal assistance to homeowners the evil thing and now we’re hearing have gone to the bank—in this case should include provisions to recoup to the gov- climate change is the evil thing? China—as our Secretary of State has ernment some portion of the appreciation of You know, I try to figure it out. All and has just asked them to ‘‘keep buy- any housing assets that may be available on I can figure is that we’re getting data ing our debt, please.’’ We go to China sale of affected units. The Obama plan does indicating that the Earth may have as the bank and say, ‘‘Please, keep provide such recoupment to the bank, in the been cooling for some time now. buying our debt. We’re going to borrow case of reworked FNMA/Freddie loans, but not Groups that are getting enormous con- money. We’re not going to pay you to the government which is assuming a huge tributions, maybe even Nobel Prizes, back, but our children and our grand- additional guarantee risk. The Administration whatever, by claiming global warming children will take care of paying you plan is silent on such recoupment to the U.S. realized, uh-oh, if we’re going to keep back.’’ That is immoral. That is irre- government. the money flowing in, we’d better be sponsible for a parent to borrow money The 8th concern is the cost estimates for able to adapt in case the world is cool- and say, ‘‘My children someday will the Obama plan are questionable. ing instead of warming, so let’s start pay you back because I can’t control Cost estimates provided by the Administra- saying we’ve got to do something about my spending. I’m just throwing money tion total at least $275 billion. But, in truth, climate change. From my standpoint, away, but they’ll pay it back some- they represent only a guess. If home values that would mean we have to have some day.’’ That is not what we should be continue to plummet, and the plan does not real serious discussions with the sun doing. succeed in whole or part, it is highly likely the and with God. Nonetheless, climate Now, at the same time, we on the cost of the plan will rise much higher. Further, change is now evil. Natural Resources Committee are hav- it is highly uncertain whether many Freddie I read an article recently that indi- ing hearings all the time. People don’t and FNMA loans will not redefault, increasing cated that, you know, when we’ve been realize we’re putting more and more of long term costs. Already, the Administration is saying these greenhouse gases are trap- our natural resources off limits. Every

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR7.020 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2954 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 month, more natural resources are off A number of important questions question is, have we implemented the limits. We’re having hearings now be- about this case remain unanswered: lessons learned from those attacks in cause they want to put a moratorium How did the perpetrator or perpetra- the fall of 2001? back on drilling the Outer Continental tors manage to pull off these attacks The Commission that I am proposing Shelf. It would provide a million jobs. that were somewhat complicated in the here is similar to this 9/11 Commission ANWR would provide a million jobs. first place? Why did the FBI pursue the that should look at the incident, why The untouched gas in Alaska would wrong suspect for so long? Is the it was not prevented, and what we can provide a million jobs. Yet, even science behind the case sound? Should do to prevent such things in the future. though it would cost nothing—no the case be closed? Have we learned the Just as the 9/11 Commission looked not raised taxes—they don’t want to do it. right lessons, and have we imple- only at the attacks that morning but It’s time to stop the fear mongering. mented the right changes in our de- also recommended changes in the It wasn’t right when Secretary Paulson fenses to make another such attack structure of government agencies, talked President Bush into it, and it’s less likely? Why are investigators so screening methods and government certainly not right now in order to pro- certain that Ivins acted alone? oversight, so should an anthrax com- mote a socialist agenda. Let’s do the Indeed, last month in Baltimore, at mission look not only at the specific right thing for a change and quit bor- the conference of the American Society crime but also at measures for preven- rowing money because we can’t control for Microbiology, FBI scientist Jason tion, detention, and investigation of fu- ourselves. Our kids will have to pay it Bannan told the press something I had ture bioterrorism. back. Let’s control ourselves and show not previously heard from the FBI offi- f some responsibility for a change. cials, something that only raises more WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH f questions about the FBI investigation. THE NEED FOR THE ANTHRAX Dr. Bannan noted during the inves- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ATTACKS INVESTIGATION ACT tigation that the FBI collected at least previous order of the House, the gentle- 60 water samples from communities woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a where government laboratories work LEHTINEN) is recognized for 5 minutes. previous order of the House, the gen- with anthrax. The purpose of collecting Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I tleman from New Jersey (Mr. HOLT) is the samples was to see if there was any rise in honor of National Women’s His- recognized for 5 minutes. tory Month, and I would like to recog- Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, this week, I unique chemical signature in one of the water samples that would match with nize some of the great women through- reintroduced the Anthrax Attacks In- out our Nation’s history by focusing on vestigation Act, H.R. 1248. Since the the water that was used to grow the anthrax spores that were mailed. Ac- my congressional district in South attacks occurred, I have pressed for a Florida. full investigation into this insidious cording to the New York Times, Bannan said, ‘‘The water research ulti- These pioneers have fought valiantly biowarfare attack on our country. for various causes, but they have all My bill’s purpose is simple: to exam- mately was inconclusive about where helped to lead the exodus of American ine and to report on how the attacks the anthrax was grown.’’ women from an era of subjugation into occurred and on how we can prevent b 1600 one of equality between the genders. In similar episodes in the future. Numer- Despite this, the FBI remains ada- South Florida, we have truly been ous experts and advisory committees mant that the anthrax could only have blessed by the lives and the leadership say that biological attacks or emerging come from that site in Maryland that epidemics are our greatest public risks. of some of the great pioneering women As you may know, the anthrax at- Dr. Ivins used even though the Bureau of our Nation’s history. tacks in 2001 originated from a postal has never been able to replicate the I’m talking about women like Roxcy box, evidently, in the Twelfth Congres- chemical signature of the material in Bolton. Roxcy was inducted into the sional District in New Jersey. They the attacks. Florida Women’s Hall of Fame for forc- disrupted the lives of people through- This is just one question. ing police and prosecutors to make out the region and the country. For As has so often been the case, each rape crime a priority, as well as illus- months, Americans lived in fear of a new revelation by the FBI seems only trating to health departments the need future attack and of the possibility of to raise more questions about the con- for rape treatment centers. receiving cross-contaminated mail. duct and conclusions of the investiga- Dr. Ellen Prager is another such Mail service was delayed, and people tion underscoring why an independent woman of greatness in South Florida. wondered whether there was a mur- review of the investigation is needed Dr. Prager has dedicated 20 years of her derer at large in their midst. Further, badly. In addition, there are important life to our ocean. She has had an ac- my own congressional office and others policy and public safety questions that complished career that began as a safe- here in Washington were shut down our government has yet to answer sat- ty diver and research assistant at an after it was found to be contaminated isfactorily. underwater habitat in St. Croix. Now, with anthrax. These attacks raised the In December 2008, the Commission on Dr. Prager is the chief scientist for the fear of terrorism to a fevered pitch. the Prevention of Weapons of Mass De- Aquarius Reef Base in Key Largo, Flor- Since the Department of Justice and struction, Proliferation and Ter- ida, where I have had the distinct the Federal Bureau of Investigation an- rorism—itself an outgrowth of the 9/11 pleasure of scuba diving with her and nounced in early August of last year Commission and its recommenda- her esteemed scientists twice already. that Dr. Bruce Ivins was their prime tions—issued a report. It used alarming Aquarius is the only operating under- suspect before his suicide a month ear- language to prod our government to sea research laboratory in the world, lier, I’ve spoken with FBI Director act. It affirmed something that was and it allows Ellen and her fellow sci- Mueller about the case. He readily has demonstrated with the deadly anthrax entists to spend as much as 2 consecu- admitted that the case against Dr. attacks: Terrorists will likely use tive weeks underwater studying the Ivins is and was circumstantial and weapons of mass destruction attacks Florida Keys National Marine Sanc- that the FBI has no direct physical evi- on America which feature biological tuary. From Aquarius, Dr. Prager uti- dence tying him to the attack. No an- weapons. lizes a telepresence to educate people thrax spores were found in his car or However, examining the 2001 anthrax around the world about the wonders of his home, and the FBI has no evidence attacks was not an explicit mandate of our planet’s oceans. that Ivins actually mailed the letters that Commission. This was in contrast Marjory Stoneman Douglas was an- in New Jersey. Nevertheless, the FBI to the 9/11 Commission which was spe- other such pioneering woman. Ms. and the DOJ are closing the case be- cifically charged with looking at how Douglas began Friends of the Ever- cause they believe the available cir- the September 2001 attacks happened, glades, an advocacy group dedicated to cumstantial evidence against Dr. Ivins why the Federal Government failed to the preservation of the Florida river of is overwhelming and because no evi- prevent the attacks and what remedial grass. Ms. Douglas was awarded the dence has surfaced to suggest that he measures were necessary to prevent a Presidential Medal of Freedom for her had any accomplices. similar catastrophe in the future. The work on behalf of this precious and

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.065 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2955 delicate ecosystem, which has become Let me make an appeal to the newer DEFENSE SPENDING engrained in the unique culture of the Members of this body, those who have The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a great State of Florida. been elected in the past few election previous order of the House, the gen- Athalie Range, Mr. Speaker, was an- cycles: Most of you campaigned on tleman from Tennessee (Mr. DUNCAN) is other pioneer among the great women principles of good government, that recognized for 5 minutes. of Florida. Ms. Range was the former Congress should take its article 1 pow- Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, the president of the Liberty City Elemen- ers seriously, that we should be careful President has announced we will soon tary PTA in 1953. Ms. Range fought to and deliberative stewards of the public be sending an additional 17,000 troops eliminate the deplorable conditions of purse. to Afghanistan, bringing our total segregated public schools. She may not I have some sobering news. It’s now there to approximately 55,000. have been the only one to notice the up to you to uphold the dignity and de- A few days ago, I read a one-line disparity between white and black corum of this institution. It’s now up mention in a story that the Defense schools, but she was one of the first to to you to ensure that those who view Department, which is now the Depart- do something positive about it. She our proceedings from afar will have en- ment of Foreign Aid, was going to stood before the all-white school board, during respect for what is done here. spend $100 million to build a new road which turned out to be no match for This duty would normally fall to the in Afghanistan. I think our Founding her fighting spirit. These segrega- more seasoned Members of this body, Fathers would think we had flipped out tionist policies, which seemed to be set particularly those who have been en- or lost our minds to spend $100 million in stone, were smashed beneath the trusted with leadership positions. One to build a road in Afghanistan, espe- weight of her mighty will. would assume that they would feel it cially since we are over $11 trillion in In fact, South Florida is blessed with their obligation to be the guardians of debt and thus are spending money that many remarkable women, and our the reputation and the dignity of the we do not have. Of course, $100 million chapter of RESULTS is cultivating dis- people’s House. But this is not the is just a tiny drop in the bucket of the tinguished, altruistic women like case. billions and billions that we have spent For whatever reason, those who have Betsy Skipp, Gale Neumann, and Kath- over there since 2001, in an impover- been chosen to lead have chosen not to leen Gordon. These women have de- ished country that is no realistic lead on this issue. While the Depart- voted their precious time and their threat to us whatsoever. ment of Justice investigations swirl Of course, every giant bureaucracy is ample talents to this amazing organi- around us, while some of our former doing everything it can to expand its zation that advocates solutions to rais- Members sit in prison, we have opted mission and exaggerating its threats so ing the standards of living throughout for business as usual, insisting that it can get more money. That is what the globe. campaign contributions do not con- the war in Afghanistan is really all Their role within RESULTS has been stitute ‘‘financial interest,’’ whistling about—money and power instead of to pioneer the use of microenterprise past the Justice Department as we go. any real threat. programs to empower even more Those who have been entrusted in According to the Congressional Re- women to pursue their dreams and leadership positions may tell you that search Service, we have spent $173 bil- achieve greatness of their own. These securing no-bid contracts, even for lion in Afghanistan since 2001, and as women are heroines. I admire them, those who give you campaign contribu- far as I’m concerned, it’s pouring and young girls in South Florida aspire tions, is simply an exercise of your ar- money down a rat hole. It is a complete to achieve even a fraction of what they ticle 1 authority under the Constitu- waste. I think if there are any fiscal have. tion. But you know better than that. conservatives left in Congress, they Every day I am thankful that my When the President stood in this should be horrified by the waste that is daughters will have the benefit of body 1 week ago and called for an end going on over there. walking the road that these courageous to no-bid contracts, he received a General Petraeus said in an article in women have paved for all of us. standing ovation. We all stood and the Washington Post a few days ago f cheered. But the very next day we that the situation in Afghanistan, de- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. LO- passed legislation that provided thou- spite all of this money, has deterio- RETTA SANCHEZ of California). Under a sands of no-bid contracts, including rated markedly in the past 2 years. previous order of the House, the gen- several to clients of the PMA Group— Those were his words. He said Afghani- tleman from North Carolina (Mr. a lobbying group currently under in- stan has been known over the years as MCHENRY) is recognized for 5 minutes. vestigation by the Department of Jus- the graveyard of empires, and if we’re (Mr. MCHENRY addressed the House. tice. not careful, it’s going to help be the So here we are. A privileged resolu- His remarks will appear hereafter in graveyard of our empire as well. tion has been offered that would ask the Extensions of Remarks.) Professor Ian Lustick of the Univer- the House Ethics Committee to inves- sity of Pennsylvania wrote recently f tigate earmarks and campaign con- about the money feeding frenzy of the VOTE ‘‘NO’’ ON NO-BID CONTRACTS tributions related to the PMA Group. war on terror and he wrote this: ‘‘Near- We will vote on that resolution on ly 7 years after September 11, 2001, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Thursday. what accounts for the vast discrepancy previous order of the House, the gen- This resolution, or something similar between the terrorist threat facing tleman from Arizona (Mr. FLAKE) is to it, will eventually pass. We will America and the scale of our response? recognized for 5 minutes. eventually come to understand that it Why, absent any evidence of a serious Mr. FLAKE. Madam Speaker, later is beneath the dignity of this institu- terror threat, is a war on terror so this week we’ll vote on whether to in- tion to continue to sweep this issue enormous, so all-encompassing, and struct the Ethics Committee to inves- under the rug and pretend that no one still expanding? tigate the relationship between ear- will notice. ‘‘The fundamental answer is that Al marks and contributions from the PMA It simply isn’t right to give no-bid Qaeda’s most important accomplish- Group, an organization that is cur- contracts to those who give us cam- ment was not to hijack our planes but rently under investigation by the U.S. paign contributions. I believe that the to hijack our political system. Department of Justice. overwhelming majority of this body ‘‘For a multitude of politicians, in- Last week, I offered a broader resolu- understands that, regardless of what terest groups and professional association. This one is specific. At its core is our leaders may tell us. I think an tions, corporations, media organiza- the notion that the House should have overwhelming majority of this body tions, universities, local and State gov- a higher standard of conduct than knows that we need a higher standard ernments, and Federal agency officials, whether or not a Member can be in- than we currently employ. the war on terror is now a major profit dicted or convicted. The broader reso- Madam Speaker, we owe this institu- center, a funding bonanza, and a set of lution gained the support of 182 Mem- tion far more than we are giving it. Let slogans and soundbites to be inserted bers—a substantial number, but still us vote for this privileged resolution into budget, project, grant, and con- short of passage. and give it the respect it deserves. tract proposals.’’

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.067 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2956 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 And finally, Professor Lustick wrote, things as soon as we thought he should things that they’re doing to bring at- ‘‘For the country as a whole, however, be. Everything that he did was in the tention to this. it has become a maelstrom of waste.’’ very tail end of the late normal range; This is something that we can work Now we have a national debt of he did them, but it was delayed. Our on together here in Congress. It is a bi- $11.315 trillion, an incomprehensible pediatrician told us it was okay, that partisan effort. We can work to find figure—and the GAO tells us in addi- he would probably grow out of this, and the right things for research, things tion that we have over $55 trillion in we continued to go along with just nor- that will help on treatments, and unfunded future pension liabilities. mal life. things that will ultimately lead to a It’s just not going to be long at all At one point, when he was about 19 cure. And I’ll tell you this, for all par- before we’re not going to be able to pay months old, we went out of town on a ents of special needs children, this is all of our Social Security and Medi- trip, left him with one of the grand- something you should never give up on, care, veterans pensions, and all the parents. And he got sick while we were never stop fighting, never quit believ- things we have promised our own peo- out of town and had to go to the doc- ing. Our son graduated from high ple if we don’t stop spending money in tor. At that point, the next week the school last year. He is now in a local ridiculously wasteful ways. doctor called me and said I think that community college. He works two And, of course, what does the Defense there’s something wrong with your son; nights a week. Department tell us? Just as they al- I don’t know what it is, but we’ll look, I want to thank the National Fragile ways do: What they want is more we’ll try to figure out what it is. At X Foundation for all their hard work. money to spend in Afghanistan and that point, we were 4 months pregnant f more troops in every place else. with our daughter. And we didn’t KEEP GOVERNMENT OUT OF THE Bruce Fein, who was a high-ranking know, we just started looking to see WAY AND EMPOWER THE AMER- official in the Reagan administration, why he was developmentally delayed. ICAN PEOPLE wrote just a few days ago in the Wash- We started going—and I say ‘‘we,’’ my ington Times that it is ridiculous that wife was the one who did the brunt of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a we now have troops in 135 countries this work. There was speech therapy previous order of the House, the gen- and approximately 1,400 military in- twice a week, occupational therapy tleman from Utah (Mr. CHAFFETZ) is stallations around the world. And he twice a week, tests, trips to the hos- recognized for 5 minutes. said we should redeploy our troops to pital, to the doctor, all the things that Mr. CHAFFETZ. Madam Speaker, I the United States. you do, trying to determine what’s rise because I am concerned about the He said, ‘‘No country would dare at- wrong with your child. direction of this country and the fun- tack our defenses and our retaliatory That continued. We went through all damental and proper role of govern- capability would be invincible. Esprit types of tests; we went through genetic ment. de corps would be at its zenith because tests that came back normal, we went I still remember reading and seeing soldiers would be fighting to protect through other things. We were finally the old films and seeing President Ken- American lives on American soil, not given a misdiagnosis of mild cerebral nedy stand up and say, ‘‘Ask not what Afghan peasants.’’ palsy and labeled a near miss on au- your country can do for you; ask what And he wrote this: ‘‘The redeploy- tism. That’s what we dealt with for the you can do for your country,’’ and yet ment would end the United States cas- next 2 years. So we did those things we seem to be moving in the wrong di- ualties in Iraq, Afghanistan, and else- that you had to do to survive. rection. where, it would end the foreign At some point in 1993, when he was The furnace, the engine that is the resentments or enemies created by un- almost 4 years old, our next-door United States of America, what makes intended killing of civilians and the in- neighbor went to an education seminar America so great are the entre- sult to pride excited by foreign occupa- in Jackson, Mississippi, and went to a preneurs, that entrepreneurial spirit. It tion.’’ breakout session called Educating is the American people who grab hold At the end of this column, he wrote: Children With Fragile X. Our next-door of things and make things happen; and ‘‘The American empire should be aban- neighbor had never heard of Fragile X. yet at every turn I look and I see gov- doned and the republic restored. The And she goes to this session, watches ernment getting in the way. United States would be safer, freer, and the video, hears this parent speak, and As I meet with entrepreneurs, as I wealthier.’’ And, Madam Speaker, I can her mouth falls open. And she comes meet with people who own businesses tell you, I agree with him. home that night and tells us, I think and employ people and have jobs, they this is it. At that point, we requested don’t sit back and say, boy, I wonder f testing to be done specifically for Frag- what the government is going to do to b 1615 ile X syndrome, and it was determined make my life better. The question that that, indeed, he did have that. they ask is, what sort of hindrances are FRAGILE X SYNDROME The things that led us to know things going to be in the way? The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a were wrong, he was rocking some when We’ve got to understand in this coun- previous order of the House, the gen- he would sit, he was doing a lot of hand try that manufacturing is good; it’s tleman from Mississippi (Mr. HARPER) flapping, and maybe chewing on some good to manufacture. We have to actu- is recognized for 5 minutes. objects. And then he was late doing ally create and build things in the Mr. HARPER. I come to you today to many things, speech and language and United States of America. We can’t tell you a story, and it’s my family’s those type issues. So we got the diag- simply be a service-based economy. story that has great relevance to many nosis of Fragile X syndrome. We went And yet at every single turn I see these of you, and many of you in this coun- to the Children’s Hospital in Denver, radical environmentalists who want to try. Colorado, where he was evaluated by get in the way and prohibit us from ac- My wife and I met and started dating Dr. Randi Hagerman and her Fragile X tually developing and creating some- when she was 15 and I was 17. We met team. It’s been tough, but we have a thing. I see this so-called cap and at a great place to meet your spouse, wonderful son. He is a blessing to ev- trade—I think it’s more like a cap and church. We dated for 51⁄2 years and got erybody that he comes across. And tax, where we’re going to simply tax married. And we didn’t really think we we’re so thankful for our son Living- our way out of our problems and say wanted children—we really wanted ston. every piece of energy that we create in grandchildren, but could not figure out Our daughter Maggie does not have this country we’re going to add a tax to a way to get there. And we finally de- Fragile X syndrome. But I wanted to it. That’s not going to grow this coun- cided, after 10 years of marriage, that mention this today because there are try; that’s not going to propel us for- we would have some kids. over 130 parents from across 35 States— ward. Our first son, Livingston, was born in all over the country—that are here We have created so many barriers to 1989, and he is now 19 years old. As we today for National Fragile X Advocacy entry for the person who wants to start went through his development in early Day. And I want to commend them for their own home-based business to the years, we noticed that he was not doing the hard work that they’re doing, the largest manufacturers that are in this

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.070 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2957 country. We have to empower these CERTIFICATION REGARDING EX- emergency and to maintain in force the people, and that means getting govern- PORT OF CERTAIN ITEMS TO sanctions to respond to this threat. ment out of the way, creating life THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BARACK OBAMA. that’s more simple. CHINA—MESSAGE FROM THE THE WHITE HOUSE, March 3, 2009. PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED Now, is there a role and responsi- f STATES (H. DOC. NO. 111–21) bility for government to regulate cer- THE PROTECTION OF LIFE tain things, for instance on Wall The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Street? Of course there is. Nobody has fore the House the following message the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- ever suggested that we just simply get from the President of the United uary 6, 2009, the gentleman from New States; which was read and, without rid of everything, but we have not Jersey (Mr. SMITH) is recognized for 60 objection, referred to the Committee streamlined the process. minutes as the designee of the minor- on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be ity leader. Look, I’m a Republican. The Presi- printed: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Madam dent has said several things that I To the Congress of the United States: Speaker, I yield such time as he might agree with, that I applaud him for—the In accordance with the provisions of consume to my good friend and col- ending of no-bid contracts, a push for section 1512 of the Strom Thurmond league, ZACH WAMP. earmark reform; he said he wants National Defense Authorization Act for Mr. WAMP. I thank the Speaker, and smaller government. I even like the Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law 105–261), I most of all I thank the gentleman from fact that he put the Iraq appropria- hereby certify to the Congress that the New Jersey for his extraordinary lead- tions into the base budget instead of export of two environmental chambers ership. He brings us to the floor today these supplemental appropriations, and to be used to test automotive parts is to talk about something that doesn’t I applaud him for that. But it is imper- not detrimental to the U.S. space get enough attention. ative for the American people to hold launch industry, and that the material At a time of economic duress and their public leaders accountable for and equipment, including any indirect hardship, all eyes are on the economy, what they say they’re going to do. I technical benefit that could be derived and for many reasons that is abso- think that’s all we ask. I’ve got a wife, from this export, will not measurably lutely right. But there are some real I’ve got three kids. All I want them to improve the missile or space launch ca- big issues that, frankly, are being over- pabilities of the People’s Republic of do is I just want my kids to do what looked under this new administration China. they say they’re going to do. and across the country today and they BARACK OBAMA. are fundamental to what kind of people And so when the President calls for THE WHITE HOUSE, March 3, 2009. we are. appropriations without earmarks, and f Today, we’re talking about the pro- the very next day—the very next day— CONTINUATION OF THE NATIONAL tection of life. We all know that abor- we get to vote on a bill with 8,500 ear- EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO tion divides our country. And we’re marks in it, you just have to look at ZIMBABWE—MESSAGE FROM THE grateful for all those Americans who that and say, wait a second, the talk is PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED say that they want to reduce the num- good, but are we actually walking the STATES (H. DOC. NO. 111–22) ber of abortions in our country, those walk? It’s not yet happening. that say that they oppose abortion, but The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- then when it comes time, as the pre- We don’t have time to wait anymore. fore the House the following message vious speaker said, to actually enact We talk about smaller government. from the President of the United policies, that’s the most important Well, we just passed the single largest States; which was read and, together time that you can actually stand up for spending bill in the history of the with the accompanying papers, without what you say you believe. United States of America for $1 tril- objection, referred to the Committee With the stroke of a pen, we now lion—$1 trillion. We had just something on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be have a new executive order that says like 13 hours to actually review it. printed: that taxpayers, basically, in this coun- Please, we have to be held accountable. To the Congress of the United States: try will fund abortions that Americans I’m a freshman. It is an honor and a Section 202(d) of the National Emer- want to have anywhere in the world. gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides privilege to serve the United States That is something overwhelmingly op- for the automatic termination of a na- Congress. I didn’t create this problem, posed by the American people, that tional emergency unless, prior to the their taxpayer dollars would go to fund but I am here to help clean it up. And anniversary date of its declaration, the abortion. for those of us that have been elected, President publishes in the Federal Reg- We teach our children the lesson of entrusted by the people, the constitu- ister and transmits to the Congress a the boiled frogs, where if you throw a ents within our districts, I say, please, notice stating that the emergency is to frog in a pot of boiling water it will hold us all accountable; raise expecta- continue in effect beyond the anniver- jump right back out, but if you leave tions. It is not government, it is not sary date. In accordance with this pro- the frog in cold water and slowly turn government that is going to get us out vision, I have sent the enclosed notice the temperature up, that frog will die of this; it is going to be the empower- to the Federal Register for publication, and never leave the water. So, over ment of the entrepreneur, it is going to stating that the national emergency time, here we are just becoming more be the empowerment of the American with respect to the actions and policies and more accustomed to this harsh people that will drive and propel this of certain members of the Government treatment of innocent life by the peo- country forward. It is always what has of Zimbabwe and other persons to un- ple of the greatest Nation in the his- created the greatest success in the dermine Zimbabwe’s democratic proc- tory of the world. United States of America. It is the esses or institutions is to continue in This issue of abortion does divide us, power that makes us the greatest coun- effect beyond March 6, 2009. but there are fundamental truths about try on the face of this planet. But we The crisis constituted by the actions the protection of innocent life from have to make sure that we keep gov- and policies of certain members of the conception forward and our Constitu- ernment in check. Government of Zimbabwe and other tion, which we all swear to uphold, pro- persons to undermine Zimbabwe’s tecting life. It’s about smaller government, not democratic processes or institutions Today, Mr. SMITH is going to go into bigger government. Please, I ask that has not been resolved. These actions detail about why it is so important for we be united and fight for this cause, and policies pose a continuing unusual those of us who believe as we believe— fight for the American entrepreneur. and extraordinary threat to the foreign many of us on religious convictions— Keep government limited, keep it out policy of the United States. For these that we should protect all innocent of our way, and empower the American reasons, I have determined that it is life, and how, frankly, that is under as- people. necessary to continue this national sault in this country today, sometimes

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.072 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2958 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 by the stroke of a pen, sometimes on search and clinical applications to ef- coaxed into becoming any type of tis- the floor of this great deliberative fectuate cures with the mitigation of sue found in the human body. body, but it is constantly now some- disease or disability have been well Unlike embryonic stem cells that thing that is under attack. documented. For several years, signifi- kill the donor, are highly unstable, have a propensity to morph into tu- b 1630 cant progress has been achieved with adult stem cells derived from non- mors and are likely to be rejected by I have recently reintroduced a bill embryonic sources, including umbilical the patient unless strong anti-rejection that is very related, H.R. 1050, reintro- cord blood, bone marrow, brain, medicines are administered, induced duced with an outstanding Member of amniotic fluid, skin and even fat cells. pluripotent cells, stem cells, have none Congress from the Democratic side, Patients with diseases, including leu- of those deficiencies and are emerging Representative BART STUPAK from kemia, type 1 diabetes, multiple scle- as the future, the greatest hope of re- Michigan, a devout Catholic. He and I rosis, lupus, sickle cell anemia and doz- generative medicine. While some Mem- have introduced H.R. 1050, which bans ens of other maladies have signifi- bers of Congress and President Obama human cloning. cantly benefitted from adult stem cell still don’t get it, the breakthroughs Listen, most people would say, what, transfers. have not been lost on the mainstream you have to pass a bill to ban human Members will recall back in 2005, press. cloning? Human cloning is not banned President Bush signed legislation that For example, on November 21 Reuters under the laws of the United States of I authored, along with my friend and reported, and I quote, ‘‘Two separate America? And the answer is no. colleague, Mr. ARTUR DAVIS, which pro- teams of researchers announced on Now, interestingly, seven of the vided $265 million to establish a com- Tuesday they had transformed ordi- other G8 countries, the industrialized prehensive nationwide network to col- nary skin cells into batches of cells nations, including Canada, France, lect, type and disseminate, using best that look and act like embryonic stem Germany and Italy, have completely, practices, umbilical cord blood, the cells, but without using cloning tech- unequivocally, banned human cloning, aftermath, the leftover, the medical nology and without making embryos.’’ but not the United States of America, waste, after a baby is born. The New York Times reported on this no. Some 4 million women give birth in same day, ‘‘Two teams of scientists re- If anything, I would think it would the United States every year. In the ported yesterday that they had turned be the other way around. We would past, the umbilical cord and the pla- human skin cells into what appear to have been the first to say ‘‘no’’ to centa was simply thrown away, despite be embryonic stem cells without hav- human cloning, but with the G8 we are the fact that it is teeming with stem ing to make or destroy an embryo—a the last. cells that could be used to effectuate feat that could quell the ethical debate This process that the proponents of cures and to mitigate disease. The leg- troubling the field.’’ cloning call therapeutic cloning is ad- islation combined cord blood and bone The Associated Press said, ‘‘Sci- vancing to the degree that reproduc- marrow efforts under HRSA, so now we entists have created the equivalent of tive cloning, the cloning of human have a program, a nationwide program, embryonic stem cells from ordinary beings, is just the next step. Many have to try to help people who are suffering skin cells, a breakthrough that could given testimony here at the Commerce from serious disease. someday produce new treatments for Committee, the health subcommittee, We know that leukemia patients can diseases without the explosive moral that human cloning is just a matter of be greatly benefitted, in some cases questions of embryo cloning.’’ time. It’s not if it will happen in this cured, from leukemia as a result of Even University of Wisconsin’s Dr. country, it’s when it will happen in those transplants. Many of our Afri- James Thompson, the man who first this country. can-American friends, some 1 out of cultured embryonic stem cells, told The other industrialized countries, every 500 who suffer from sickle cell The New York Times, ‘‘Now with the the sophisticated countries of the anemia can also benefit greatly from new technique, which involves adding world have said, no, ban it, stop it. these kinds of transplantations. That just four genes to ordinary skin cells, This is a Frankenstein-type outcome. legislation is being run by HRSA and it it will not be long before the stem cell This is fundamental. It’s not gray, it’s is working. wars are a distant memory. ‘A decade black and white. Adult stem cells, Madam Speaker, from now, this will just be a funny his- This does not ban embryonic stem are truly remarkable. They work, they torical footnote.’ ’’ cell research. It bans embryonic human have no ethical baggage, and advances Dr. Thompson told the Detroit Free cloning. This is a fundamental question are made every day at a dizzying pace. Press, ‘‘While ducking ethical debate of what we are all about and whether But perhaps the greatest break- wasn’t the goal, (it is) probably the be- or not we will allow this. through of all, Madam Speaker, was ginning of the end of the controversy Even the United Nations, which is the discovery of a process that turns over embryonic stem cells.’’ not exactly a conservative body in the every day ordinary skin cells into In Medical News Today, Dr. Thomp- world, passed a declaration to adopt all pluripotent embryo-like stem cells. son went on to say, ‘‘Speaking about measures necessary to prohibit all On November 20, 2007, Japanese sci- this latest breakthrough, the induced forms of human cloning inasmuch as entists Shinya Yamanaka and Wis- cells do all the things embryonic cells they are incompatible with human dig- consin researcher James Thompson do. It’s going to completely change the nity and the protection of human life. shocked the scientific community by field. This hour is dedicated to the protec- independently announcing their ability ‘‘The other advantage of the new tion of human life. Let’s ban human to derive pluripotent stem cells to the method is the fact that using cells cloning in this country, surely to good- reprogramming of regular skin cells, drawn from the patient’s own skin, the ness. We can do that in a bipartisan regular skin cells turned into stem cells can be customized to the pa- way on the floor of this House. pluripotent skin cells. The iPS cells, as tient, bringing numerous benefits, such I call on the House to support BART they are called, are made by adding a as the elimination of immune system STUPAK and ZACH WAMP in H.R. 1050. small number of factors or genes to rejection. They are probably more Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I thank regular skin cells in a Petri dish that clinically relevant than embryonic my good friend, but especially for his can remodel mature cells into stem stem cells.’’ extraordinary work on banning human cells that are functionally identical to Madam Speaker, this past Monday, cloning and for his leadership on life those obtained from embryos. more good news, no, let’s call it great issues in general. In other words, Madam Speaker, sci- news on the iPS front. Research teams Madam Speaker, human embryo-de- entists have found a way of trans- from the United Kingdom and Canada stroying stem cell research is not only forming your cells, skin cells, and published two papers in the prestigious unethical, unworkable and unreliable, mine, into stem cells called induced scientific journal, Nature, announcing it is now demonstrably unnecessary. pluripotent stem cells or iPS. that they had successfully repro- Recent spectacular breakthroughs in Pluripotent stem cells are those mirac- grammed ordinary skin cells into in- noncontroversial adult stem cell re- ulous building block cells that can be duced pluripotent skin cells without

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:31 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.074 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2959 the use of viruses to transmit the re- At this point, Madam Speaker, I I am a very strong pro-life person. programming genes to the cell. Using a would like to yield to my good friend All people who are pro-life are in favor ‘‘piggyback’’ system, as they called it, and colleague, VIRGINIA FOXX. of stem cell research. I support stem the scientists were able to insert DNA Ms. FOXX. I want to thank my col- cell research. Many people believe that where they could alter the genetic league from New Jersey (Mr. SMITH) for pro-life people do not support stem cell make-up of the regular cell before sharing this time with me and for tak- research. being harmlessly removed. ing the lead on this special order on However, we don’t support research According to many scientists, the re- stem cell research. that requires the killing of human life. moval of potentially cancer-causing vi- I want to also say that I want to as- That’s what’s important to us. We ruses means this breakthrough in- sociate myself with the remarks from know that we can do stem cell research creases the likelihood that iPS cells our colleague from Tennessee (Mr. without destroying human life. We also will be safe for clinical use in human WAMP) in saying that this is an ex- know that a lot of taxpayer money is patients. The lead scientist from Can- tremely important issue for us to be being spent on embryonic stem cell re- ada, Andras Nagy, was quoted in the dealing with. search. And I think, frankly, we’re pay- Washington Post saying, ‘‘It’s a leap If we don’t deal with the issue of life, ing more than our fair share for re- forward in the safe application of these if we don’t deal with what are the eth- search that many people find to be cells. We expect this to have a massive ical principles that drive us, then the morally repugnant. impact on this field.’’ other things really don’t matter. We For 2008 NIH estimated it would And George Daley at Children’s Hos- have a lot of things that are weighing spend $37 million on embryonic stem pital in Boston said, ‘‘It’s very signifi- on people’s minds in terms of the econ- cell research. That $37 million is not cant. I think it’s a major step forward omy, and we know that’s important, nothing; it is a lot of money. However, in realizing the value of these cells for and we are very concerned about folks from that money we have achieved no medical research.’’ who have lost their jobs and who are positive results. That is, we have noth- This breakthrough, Madam Speaker, struggling with the economy. ing to show for all the money that has suggests the momentum has decisively b 1645 gone into embryonic stem cell re- and irrevocably swung to non- search. That point needs to be made controversial stem cell research like But what’s most important is that we deal with the essential elements of over and over again because we have iPS cells and away from embryo-de- gained treatment for 70 diseases stroying research. The lead scientist what makes us human beings, and I think it’s important that we are doing through the use of adult stem cell re- from the UK was quoted in the BBC search, and what separates those of us saying, ‘‘It is a step towards the prac- this Special Order tonight. One of the most gratifying experi- who are pro-life from those who are tical use of reprogrammed cells in med- pro-abortion is that we support re- icine, perhaps even eliminating the ences that I have had since I have been 1 search into adult stem cells. need for human embryos as a source of in Congress was one night about 3 ⁄2 years ago when we were supposed to be One of the reasons I am also very ex- stem cells.’’ cited about the research that is going Finally, in the Washington Post Dr. doing a Special Order on stem cell re- on in adult stem cells is because Dr. Nagy made a series of interesting com- search. We were scheduled to do that. I Anthony Atala and his team at Wake ments this week. First, that his studies wasn’t going to lead it, but all of my Forest in the Institute of Regenerative showed that the iPS cells had many of colleagues suddenly had conflicts and Medicine are getting great results as a the properties of embryonic stem cells. asked me if I would lead the Special result of their research into adult stem Secondly, while the research in this Order. I was standing right here and I cells and they are not destroying case was done on fetal cells, the ap- spoke for about 40 minutes about the human life. Dr. Atala, who came to proach had worked equally well with issue. And when I got back to my of- adult stem cells. And, third, since iPS fice, which took me about 5 minutes, it Wake Forest from Harvard and brought cell research should no longer require was at 9:30 at night, and one of my a large team with him, is a tissue engi- the specialization of virus labs and re- staffers was still there waiting for me, neering specialist, and he has found searchers, the number of researchers and she told me that she’d had a call, that amniotic fluid stem cells have working on iPS cells is expected to in- as soon as I finished my speaking on those pluripotent properties that have crease again beyond the large number the floor, from a gentleman from been pointed out earlier that grow as already devoting their attention to in- Maryland. He said he had never fast as embryonic stem cells. He’s reduced pluripotent cells since November watched C–SPAN in his life. He was ceived tremendously positive response, of 2007. There has been an explosion in surfing through the channels, saw this particularly in growing bladders. In ad- this area, because this holds the great- little gray-haired woman standing on dition, stem cells coming from the um- est promise. the floor of the House, wondered how bilical cord and from the placenta and Time magazine reports, reporting on an average citizen was able to stand on amniotic fluid have shown tremendous the efficacy and the advantage of iPS the floor of the House and speak be- results, as my colleague Mr. SMITH has stem cells, ‘‘The iPS technology is the cause he thought it was only Members talked about. ultimate manufacturing process for of Congress that could do that. So he So it’s important that we always dis- cells; it is now possible for researchers stopped to listen. And he heard my de- tinguish between adult stem cell re- to churn out unlimited quantities of a scription of stem cell research. And he search and embryonic stem cell re- patient’s stem cells, which can then be just called to thank me for doing it and search. We must continue to educate turned into any of the cells that the to tell me that he didn’t understand the American public on this issue, and body might need to replace or repair.’’ the issue and now he did and he was we need to explain to people the eth- Despite all of this, Madam Speaker, very gratified by that. ical questions that we are dealing with. this new and extraordinary progress in So I am very, very pleased that our We should never in this country sanc- the iPS and adult stem cell research speaking to people about this issue tion research that would harm other arena, the Obama administration and does make a difference, and I hope that human beings. Many of us know that the House and Senate Democratic lead- by having this Special Order today, we there was research done in the 1930s ership remain obsessed with killing will have many people who understand with prisoners that was very wrong. We human embryos for experimentation at the issue better and will have their have condemned that research over and taxpayer expense. minds changed if they were going in over again. But since that time, we Why persist in the dehumanizing of the wrong direction or have their have had very, very strong and ethical nascent human life when better alter- minds made up if they didn’t have an programs to protect adults from dis- natives exist, alternatives that work opinion. eases that would cause them harm and on both ethics grounds and efficacy What I did that night was describe that would cause them death, and yet grounds. Nonembryonic stem cell re- basically what stem cell research is people don’t see the same problem search is the present and it is the fu- and what are the differences in the way when we are dealing with embryos, and ture of regenerative medicine, and the people talk about it, and I think that we must point that out to people. We only responsible way forward. continues to be an important issue. are crossing an ethical Rubicon when

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:31 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.075 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2960 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 we sanction using embryos for research monly known as adult stem cell re- Mr. FORTENBERRY. Thank you or creating embryos for this research. search. This is good science, helping to very much. That is going over the line, and we save American lives and providing real Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I would must explain that to the American treatment options now. like to yield to Mr. FORBES. public. We must explain the long-term The American people deserve to And before doing so, I’d just remind implications for our society and for the know that adult stem cell science is our colleagues that a couple of years human race. Not being careful to take progressing at a staggering pace, show- ago, Mr. FORBES and Mr. LIPINSKI care of human life at the beginning of casing over 70 successful clinical treat- brought a researcher from Brazil and a life has implications for whether we ment models for conditions ranging researcher from the United States who will take care of human life all from heart disease to Parkinson’s dis- had another breakthrough, in this case throughout life and particularly at the ease, spinal cord injury, sickle cell ane- cord blood, for type 1 diabetics. And end of life. We also have to point out mia, stroke damage, leukemia, chronic some of the diabetics, virtually all ex- that we have gotten much better re- liver disease, and many, many more. cept two, who had been given cord sults, again, from the use of adult stem The empirical evidence is sound, and it blood transplantation got off their in- cells and umbilical cords and other really is eye opening, giving hope to sulin. They were no longer insulin de- ways to get cells other than destroying those who suffer from these debili- pendent. And, again, so many people in life. tating conditions. this Chamber, so many people in the I hope today that there’s at least one Madam Speaker, the American peo- White House, and perhaps even HHS other person like the gentleman in ple also deserve to know that there is don’t seem to get it; that the real Maryland who saw me do this 4 years a clear distinction between adult stem progress, the real advances are being ago and who’s understanding this issue cell science and embryonic stem cell made in the realm of adult stem cells, for the first time and understands par- science. Between hope and promise for and those kinds of advances are being ticularly the distinction that we are cures on the one hand and misleading, made each and every day. And Mr. making between doing ethical research misguided efforts to funnel their tax FORBES is the prime sponsor of some on adult stem cells and what most of dollars to bail out research companies, very, very important legislation deal- us consider is unethical research on research enterprises, that thrive on the ing with adult stem cells, which I hope embryos which will destroy them. Then destruction of nascent human beings, he will elaborate on. we can continue to support programs embryos, who are no less human than I yield to Mr. FORBES. like that of Dr. Atala at Wake Forest Members of this august legislative Mr. FORBES. Thank you, Congress- University and other places where body. man SMITH. And I also want to thank they’re seeing excellent results. That’s Widely touted and vigorously pro- Congressman FORTENBERRY for his the kind of research this country moted nationwide as a potential cure comments and to begin by saying that should be doing. We know we can get for many of the same conditions that many of us come to this debate for dif- good results from that. adult stem cell research may treat, em- ferent reasons. Some because of philo- And I want to support again my col- bryonic stem cell research requires the sophical reasons, some for political leagues who are here tonight speaking destruction of unborn human persons reasons. I come to it for a rather per- on this issue and helping the American to derive stem cells for research. We sonal reason. public and others understand it. We are know that embryonic human life is My father, about 5 years ago, died an ethical people, and we want to con- still human life. The marvels of mod- from Parkinson’s disease. My brother tinue to be an ethical people and do re- ern science leave no room for confusion currently has Parkinson’s disease. So search that will produce good results. on this important point. Moreover, em- it’s near and dear to my heart. But With that, Madam Speaker, I yield bryonic stem cell research has shown what’s most important is I don’t need back to the leader for tonight, Mr. no clinical success to date. It rep- political debates or political rhetoric. SMITH. resents a degradation of human life What I need is some cures or I need Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Thank that is wrong. Science that harms someone who can provide some way of you, Congresswoman FOXX, for your human beings, no matter how small treating those illnesses. wonderful and very incisive comments they are, no matter how vulnerable If you just step back and take a mo- today, and I really appreciate your they are or easily disposable they are, ment, as Congressman SMITH has point- leadership on life issues as well, espe- is always wrong. ed out, we find that all of the major cially when it comes to embryonic With so many proven ethical alter- breakthroughs have been with adult stem cell research and the alternative natives, embryonic stem cell research stem cells, not with embryonic cells. In that is, without question, adult stem presents an unnecessary moral di- fact, I have here a scorecard, and I cells and especially induced lemma for persons of goodwill. It si- know no one can see this in the body pluripotent stem cells derived from phons limited Federal funds away from tonight, but if you showed the victories such everyday skin that we all carry adult stem cell research that is now for peer-reviewed studies from adult on our bodies, which has proven to be saving lives. And American taxpayers, stem cells, you would have 73 different highly efficacious and works, and I who have recently been asked to shoul- illnesses that have been treated suc- think it is the future. der an unprecedented deficit that will cessfully with adult stem cells. And I would like to now yield to Mr. burden generations to come, should not then if you look on the embryonic side, FORTENBERRY. be forced to pay for it. Adult stem cell you would find 0 over there. Mr. FORTENBERRY. First, let me research works, saves lives, and avoids And one of the exciting things for us thank the gentleman from New Jersey the ethically divisive issue of the de- as we go through this debate is, as I for conducting this very, very impor- struction of innocent and unborn travel around, I find, Congressman, as I tant discussion. human life. know you do, that a lot of people really Madam Speaker, over the past sev- So, again, with that I want to thank do not understand the difference be- eral years, I have received scores of let- the gentleman from New Jersey for tween the two because the debate gets ters from my constituents that reflect conducting this important dialogue. muddled many times; but as Congress- widespread national confusion about Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I thank man FORTENBERRY pointed out so cor- stem cell research. Let me take a few Mr. FORTENBERRY for his leadership. He rectly to us, we really have now three moments to cut through the fog on this has shown, since he has been here, him- major types of cells that we’re talking important issue. self to be not only a leader but some- about. There are two types of stem cell re- one who thinks both inside and outside search often confused in our public de- the box on so many human rights and b 1700 bate. The first, which I wholeheartedly humanitarian issues. And this is a We are talking about the adult stem and enthusiastically support, is the human rights and humanitarian issue, cells, which have absolutely no ethical type of stem cell research which uses and I thank him for his contribution problems and have shown all of the cells derived from sources such as cord not just today on the floor but every benefits for really dealing with ill- blood, skin, and bone marrow, com- day as a Member of this august body. nesses. We then have the embryonic

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.077 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2961 stem cells, which have a number of eth- for safety. On the contrary, this 2006 promise there I think is really limit- ical concerns and have shown abso- study demonstrates actual patient less now for what our patients will see. lutely no benefits in treating illnesses. treatment using adult stem cells. So thank you so much. And now we have the induced All of these studies show that stem Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Thank pluripotent stem cells, or the IPS cells, cells can be derived from human cells you to RANDY for his extraordinary which are ethical, because they, Con- and used to successfully treat patients, contribution and for his leadership on gressman, as I think you mentioned, all while maintaining ethical stand- these issues, especially having dealt really come back from the adult cells ards. Advancing scientific development with and currently dealing with such a as we work back and reprogram those and protecting life do not have to be difficult hardship with his own family. and they have all the capacity of the opposing forces. I will never forget when Parkinson’s embryonic cells without any of the eth- In just a brief summary, I would like disease and fetal tissue transplantation ical problems. to respond to another question that in the mid-1990s was being offered as So really what we have is a situation Congressman SMITH had or suggested the panacea, the brass ring, to try to where the science in this whole discus- he had, and that is that we talk about end that very horrible disease, which sion has outpaced the debate, and the the Patients First Act, which is a bi- we all know people, you know it per- science has now proven that we really partisan bill that was introduced pre- sonally in your own family. Unfortu- don’t need the research for the embry- viously. It is now H.R. 877, the Patients nately, we found very quickly that tak- onic stem cells. But in a day and age First Act, which has been introduced in ing fetal tissue from a baby about to be where every day we give up and see so the 111th Congress. It was originally aborted turned out to be an unmiti- much negative news, there is some ex- introduced by Congressman LIPINSKI gated disaster as this very unstable citing, good news, as Congressman from Illinois and myself as H.R. 2807. group of cells would very quickly pro- SMITH has pointed out, and I would like As we step back, for those of us with liferate and became various bone tissue tonight just to talk about some of loved ones who suffer from these ill- and other tissue inside the brain, caus- those great advances that we have nesses as I did with my father and I ing worse convulsions and tremors on seen. currently do with my brother, it just the part of the patients in whom the First of all, in 2007, the Journal of makes common sense that we would transplantation was given. the American Medical Association pub- like to do a couple of things. I think we have a very similar par- lished a study on the first stem cell First of all, we would like to get as allel today where there is an excessive treatment for diabetes patients. Re- much research as we can to the prob- amount of hype and hyperbole about searchers from Northwestern Univer- lem, and not just floating out for some embryonic stem cells, which have an sity and Brazil performed a clinical hypothetical research. The second unbelievable propensity, very grave trial with 15 diabetic patients, and 13 of thing is we don’t want all the theories propensity, to become tumors. Not the 15 patients with type 1 diabetes around, we don’t want all the political only are they killing embryos to derive were insulin-free after receiving an posturing. What we want is cures in to- the stem cells, but once those stem adult stem cell transplant using blood day’s time so that we can get them to cells are in hand they become tumors, stem cells. these patients and they can impact they are unstable, and, if transplanted In 2002, doctors treated a patient for their lives. into humans, there is a great fear that Parkinson’s disease with his own neu- So we wrote a bill that did something we would see a replication of the fetal ral stem cells. This is the world’s first that is really novel. It used some com- tissue debacle of the mid-1990s. clinical trial using stem cells for the mon sense. It just said what would hap- As you pointed out so well, RANDY, treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Doc- pen if for a change, instead of worrying there is an ethical alternative that tors actually isolated the patient’s about what all of the interest groups does not have the rejection factor, will stem cells, induced them to differen- wanted, we put the patients first. If not require anti-rejection drugs, tiate into the desired nervous system you put the patients first, you ask one whether it be Celsep or any of these cells and implanted them back into the simple question of the NIH. You simply other drugs that those that get trans- patients’ brain. ask them to do this: Tell us which re- plants get. None of that would happen. Just a few weeks ago, a study on this search, either on the adult stem cells And you don’t have the tumor forma- treatment was published in the or embryonic stem cells, is going to get tions from these IPS cells. Bentham Open Stem Cell Journal and the most near-term clinical benefits Mr. FORBES. If the gentleman will the study outlines the long-term re- for the patients, and that is where we just yield briefly and then I will yield sults of this trial. For the 5 years fol- want to laser in our money. That is right back, one of the things that is so lowing the procedure, the patient’s where we want to focus in our money, exciting for us as we look in this de- motor skills improved by over 80 per- because that gives us the greatest op- bate is many of the people that began, cent for at least 36 months. portunity for a cure and certainly for the scientists that began doing re- Now, a word of caution must be treatment. search on embryonic research have now added that since this is a single case I am convinced if you do that, right folded their tent and realize they don’t study, a larger clinical trial is needed now the scorecard would be 73 for the have to do that. They are going back to replicate these findings and assess adult stem cells and zero for the em- and now saying we don’t need to do their long-term sustainability. But bryonic stem cells. But as Congress- that. We will use IPS cells or do the notwithstanding, this is an incredible man SMITH has so accurately stated, adult stems cells. scientific breakthrough. even if you say there is research poten- Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. As you In 2006, the Journal of Spinal Cord tial with the embryonic stem cells, said, the pioneers of embryonic stem Medicine reported a treatment for spi- there is actually no reason why we cells are now the pioneers of the eth- nal cord injury using adult stem cells. couldn’t use the IPS cells to do all of ical IPS. A doctor in Portugal transplanted that without one bit of ethical prob- Mr. JORDAN. nasal stem cells into seven patients lem. Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. I thank the with spinal cord injury. Following the So, Congressman, I just want to tell gentleman for yielding and for the procedure, these patients regained you tonight in this world of bad news, comments from our colleague from some motor function and sensation, there is some exciting news out there Virginia too. and two patients showed bladder con- of what we are seeing. I think patients I want to just take us a minute to trol improvement. have reason today to hope if we just do thank the gentleman from New Jersey I understand that the FDA recently our job and we say let’s get off of the for his commitment over the years, approved a clinical safety trial using divisive debate that has marred this over the decades, even though you human embryonic stem cells for newly whole area for so long. Let’s con- don’t look that old, over the decades of injured spinal cord patients. However, centrate on where we can put our re- standing up for the defenseless, the it is important to note that this is not search to help patients. In so doing, I most vulnerable, for standing up and a treatment, but only approval to think we will end up doing the research making a commitment to the truth begin experiments with humans to test with the adult stem cells, and the that all life is precious, it should be

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.079 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2962 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 protected, it is sacred, and government It is interesting that before we have like stem cells without harming or de- has a fundamental responsibility to had votes on embryonic stem cell re- stroying a human embryo. protect the weak from the strong. That search in this body, Members who take You may have heard about these is what Congressman SMITH has done the other view have taken to the floor, cells. They are called IPSC for induced for years, and I am proud to join in to the well of the House, and said pluripotent stem cells. They were first that effort, along with other pro-life things like this, this is from Rahm discovered in 2007. These cells are made Members of the United States Con- Emanuel as reported by The Wash- by reprogramming adult cells, such as gress. ington Post, I remember when he said cells from your skin, into embryonic- We all want positive treatments to it, ‘‘It is ironic that every time we vote like cells. result from stem cell research. We just on this legislation, [embryonic stem Of course, just to digress for a mo- don’t want to destroy human life in cell research, embryo destroying re- ment, to understand what the purpose getting those treatments. And I search legislation] all of a sudden there of this whole idea of stem cells is, it is thought the gentleman’s comments is a major scientific discovery that ba- taking undifferentiated cells, and the from Virginia were right on target sically says you don’t have to do em- future is amazing. We can create or- where he talked about the positive re- bryonic stem cell research.’’ gans potentially. sults, the positive treatments that Our good friend and colleague DIANA b 1715 have resulted from adult stem cell re- DEGETTE said, ‘‘I find it very inter- search. Unbelievable. The scorecard, as esting that every time we bring this Just think about, in terms of kid- the gentleman from Virginia pointed bill up there is a scientific break- neys, hearts or whatever being trans- out, is overwhelmingly in favor. through.’’ planted. We would have organs that It is interesting, and the gentleman That is because, Madam Speaker, al- would no longer require any sort of from New Jersey made this point: The most every day there is a scientific immuno-suppressive drugs. ethical decision is the smart decision. breakthrough in the area of adult stem Anyway, in the 2 years since this The ethical decision is the actual pro- cell and the induced pluripotent stem technique was first published, hundreds ductive decision. It is the one that cells. The skin cells that have been of scientists have been feverishly at leads to positive results for families, turned into embryo stem cells without work perfecting this technique. Just for people out there, so they can get destroying or killing an embryo, with- this week, researchers published a the treatment they need, and doesn’t out the ethical baggage, that is the major, just this week now, a major im- destroy human life in the process. That biggest breakthrough of all. And it provement on the technique of creating is what we should champion. That is seems to me that we should be rejoic- human iPSC stem cells. You may have the ideal that is consistent with this ing. We have moved beyond the ethical read about this in the Washington Post country that is frankly consistent with debate because we have something in that came out on Monday. Previously, in order to reprogram our founding. hand that is the promise and the hope cells to their embryonic-like state, re- I always go back to this, and I will of regenerative medicine. close with this and yield back to our Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. Well said, Con- searchers relied on viruses which were known to cause cancer when injected pro-life chairman of the Pro-Life Cau- gressman SMITH. cus. The document that started it all, Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I would into humans. Now, researchers have and I think it is important to go back like to yield to the distinguished gen- shown that it is possible to make iPSC to these first principles, the document tleman from Louisiana, Mr. FLEMING. stem cells without the harmful virus. that started it all in this country, the Mr. FLEMING. Thanks to the gen- In fact, the factors used to reprogram Declaration of Independence, it is in- tleman for yielding. the cells are completely removed, leav- teresting what the Founders said when I have put up a quote here which ing behind only the embryonic-like they said we hold these truths to be we’ll get to in just a moment, and it is iPSC stem cells. self-evident. All are created equal, en- on the subject that we are currently So what this means is, not only are dowed by our Creator with certain in- discussing about stem cell research. I we having to use embryonic cells, alienable rights, that among these are apologize if some of this is redundant, which means destroying an embryo, a life, liberty and the pursuit of happi- but I think this new information is human life, but we can literally take it ness. very interesting and very exciting and from the skin of an adult. And even It is always interesting to note the I think it bears perhaps a little impor- more importantly, we don’t have to use order the Founders placed the rights tant redundancy. viruses to reprogram the nucleus. The they chose to mention. Can you pursue For more than a decade Congress has problem with viruses, of course, you happiness, can you go after your goals been debating the ethics of using tax- can introduce all sort of matter into and your dreams, those things that payer dollars to fund research that re- the DNA, such as cancer, which is very have meaning and significance to you quires the destruction of a human em- dangerous. and your family if you first don’t have bryo. Science is making this debate ob- These cells are even better than em- liberty, if you first don’t have freedom? solete. bryonic stem cells from embryos cre- And do you ever experience true lib- At the beginning of the embryonic ated through IVF because they can erty, true freedom, if government stem cell debate, only 2 years after both be patient-specific and disease- doesn’t protect that most fundamental human embryonic stem cells were first specific, even for diseases we only bare- right, your right to life. derived, President Clinton’s Bioethics ly understand. That is what the congressman from Council concluded, and here it is writ- Surely this meets the criteria set New Jersey, Congressman SMITH, has ten, that in our judgment, in 1999, the forth by the Clinton Bioethics Commis- been doing for years, and we appreciate National Bioethics Advisory Commis- sion. Researchers, funded in part by that and we are proud to join in that sion under President Clinton, said, in our own National Institutes of Health, effort to protect human life and to pro- our judgment, the derivation of em- have discovered a viable and promising tect research that is actually going to bryos remaining following infertility alternative to destroying embryos for make sure we protect human life as we treatments is justifiable only, that is their stem cells. Such research is no move forward and get those positive re- only if no less morally problematic al- longer justifiable, even according to sults that are going to help all kinds of ternatives are available for advancing the Clinton criterion, which I’ve laid people across this country, around the this research. out here in large print. And certainly world, all kinds of families around this Now, thanks in part to the very same research that is both morally con- country and around the world. researcher who first discovered how to troversial and out of date does not need Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I would derive human embryonic stem cells, re- to be subsidized by the American tax- just say to my friend, I thank you for searchers have discovered how to make payer. your leadership as well. You are new to pluripotent embryonic-like stem cells So, even in spite of all this, through the Congress. Not that new. You cer- without harming or destroying a private means, embryonic stem cell re- tainly have stepped out time and time human embryo. search can still go on, even though it’s again, and it is greatly appreciated by Let me repeat that. They have dis- not needed, as long as taxpayers do not all. covered a way of creating embryonic- pay for it.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.080 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2963 I feel there was never a justification I, for one, am excited about the fu- your leadership and your very eloquent in the past to destroy embryos for the ture of this therapy, and encourage words. purpose of stem cell research. But now this body to do all we can to support I yield such time as he may consume we have two reasons to embrace this ethical adult stem cell therapy. to Mr. MARK SOUDER. new technology, and that is, as I point- Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. BILI- Mr. SOUDER. I thank my friend, col- ed out a minute ago, the fact that it’s RAKIS, thank you so much. league from New Jersey. safer because we don’t have to use vi- Mrs. BACHMANN. I think one of the happiest moments ruses, and we no longer have to destroy Mrs. BACHMANN. I thank the gen- in our life, or any grandparent, is to embryos. tleman from New Jersey for yielding. see your first grandchild. And my So, in closing, Madam Speaker, sure- It’s exciting to see what science has grandson, Grant, was born about a year ly, even those who maintain a pro- wrought just in the last few days, the and a half ago to my daughter, Brooke abortion position will support this discoveries that have come about. But and her husband, Jeff. And we’ve newer, safer technique which requires the bottom line in all of it is this: watched him develop. no Federal dollars to destroy human Cloning will lead to the exploitation of But from the time he became an em- embryos. women. That’s harmful and that’s not bryo, egg and sperm joined, his stem Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. I thank good, especially for poor women in the cell content, his cell content was the my good friend, Mr. FLEMING, for his United States and around the world. same as it is now. All he’s added is a contribution and for his leadership. I Women’s eggs are required in the little bit of chubbiness and a little bit would like to yield to Mr. BILIRAKIS 3 process of cloning, and the extraction of height as he’s grown. minutes. technique exposes otherwise healthy Now, in about a month our first Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, fel- women to the risk of infertility and, granddaughter is going to be born, low Members, I’m glad to be on the sadly, tragically, even of death. Reagan. And we’ve watched her grow in House floor with you this afternoon The recent cloning scandal that the womb. But from the time she was discussing this very important topic of we’ve witnessed in South Korea should conceived, she became a separate adult stem cell therapy. The break- serve as a warning here to those of us human being. Nothing’s really going to throughs in technology that have been in the United States. Many Korean change. It’s just she’s going to grow already discussed, they are exciting, women were coerced into donating and she’s going to develop personality, the breakthroughs. And I’m encour- their eggs for Professor Hwang’s fraud- add to her intelligence. But she’s been aged that science and medical commu- ulent research. Not only is it wrong, the same make-up from the beginning. nities are moving toward an ethical ap- really wrong to destroy human em- Now, the question is, is why are some proach to treating very sick patients. bryos, but it’s even worse to put so intent on taking human life? And This miracle of ethical adult stem women in a position where their health why are they so intent in using our cell therapy really hit home with me is at risk to do unethical research, es- taxpayer dollars to make us do that? last month when I met with a Florida pecially now, when we find science has We’ve worked for many years. You’ve cardiologist by the name of Dr. Zannos taught us we don’t have to. been a stalwart in this. We did a hear- Grekos, who has been using adult stem The use of the iPS cells, or the adult ing, when we were in the majority, cells to treat his very sick stem cells, make it unnecessary to use where we showed that there were al- cardiopulmonary patients. The doctor women’s eggs, while researchers who ready scientific breaks occurring in has had extraordinary results, and the have been pushing human cloning have skin cells and so on. And as you said, best part is no embryonic stem cells been seeking them. sometimes the allegation is, why do are used. We all know that November 20, 2007, these breakthroughs come right before Dr. Grekos’ groundbreaking proce- a Wisconsin researcher and a Japanese we have a big vote? dure involves a simple blood draw scientist discovered, they independ- They come constantly, as you so elo- which extracts adult stem cells from ently announced their ability to derive quently said, on lupus, on different dis- the patient’s own blood. Since it is the pluripotent stem cells through the re- eases. Now we have yet another one. patient’s own blood, there is no possi- programming of regular stem cells. The advances are all in non-embryonic. bility of the body rejecting its own This is a marvelous breakthrough. So why do we continue, other than stem cells. The few naturally occurring And then just days ago, on March 1, because to try to take guilt relief off stem cells in the blood are cultivated 2009, two research teams demonstrated an abortion, to try to confuse the issue into millions of regenocytes. The they could reprogram cells without the of when human life begins, why do we regenocytes are re-injected back into use of potentially cancer-causing vi- continue to, quite frankly, waste so the patient’s heart or blood vessels. ruses. This is marvelous. much, when, in fact, many people They then stimulate tissue re-growth iPS can produce a large number of would have been cured, healed and bet- and greater blood flow to the affected both patient-specific as well as disease- ter had we put it into other types of area. specific stem cell lines because, accord- stem cell research other than embry- This treatment has proven to have ing to the Telegraph newspaper, tests onic? miraculous results, and once again, the on the reprogrammed cell lines showed Thank you for your leadership. And I best part is that embryos are not de- they behave exactly, exactly like em- yield to you for a close. stroyed and, because regenocytes are bryonic stem cells. These cells have al- Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Thank extracted from the patient’s own blood, ready been used to make heart muscle, you very much, Mr. SOUDER. they cannot be rejected by the pa- brain neurons, motor neurons, blood, Let me just say in conclusion, tient’s body. insulin secreting cells. Madam Speaker, that the present and It was reported on CNBC.com a cou- We are thrilled at the advances that the future of regenerative medicine, ple of weeks ago that this science has made. Let’s use these ad- which holds great promise and hope for groundbreaking treatment has success- vances to make sure that we can fur- each and every one of us, every one of fully treated heart disease, and even ther do more research that will protect us has members of our own family who helped a patient beat a rare metabolic people’s lives. have suffered from degenerative dis- condition known as Fabry Disease, But, at the same time, let’s not hurt eases, developmental disabilities and which would otherwise require a heart women, let’s not destroy their lives, the like. We all know the pain and the transplant and let’s not destroy their fertility; agony. Madam Speaker, the government and certainly we shouldn’t do anything I chair or co-chair the Autism Cau- should not be in the business of funding that should lead to women’s death. cus, the Spina Bifida Caucus, the Alz- destruction of embryonic stem cells. And I thank you so much to the gen- heimer’s Caucus, and believe passion- We should be in the business, however, tleman from New Jersey for leading ately in trying to find cures for dis- of assisting bright, young, innovative this important hour. Thank you so eases. But the future of regenerative doctors and scientists like Dr. Grekos, much. medicine is with adult stem cells, in- who have forged a path of ethical adult Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mrs. cluding and especially non-embryonic stem cell therapy. BACHMANN, thank you very much for but embryo-like induced pluripotent

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.082 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2964 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 stem cells, iPS. That has to become, So, as we’re here tonight to talk for a mortgage maybe now can afford iPS, a household word. about where we’ve been and where $600. f we’re going and where we need to go in Well, there are simple solutions to this country, I just want to mention that, and I’m very gratified that Con- THE MAJORITY MAKERS the fact that Prime Minister Gordon gress is moving forward. The Obama The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Brown was here today. The theme of administration has put out a number of the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- his address to the joint session of Con- proposals which, I think, need quick uary 6, 2009, the gentleman from Ken- gress was—and he has mentioned the movement because they’re just com- tucky (Mr. YARMUTH) is recognized for expression many times—‘‘faith in the monsense, and they make sense. 60 minutes as the designee of the ma- future.’’ That’s really what we’re try- Everyone understands it’s not in the jority leader. ing to bring to this country, faith in best interest of a street for a home to Mr. YARMUTH. Madam Speaker, it’s the future, because that faith has been be foreclosed on on that street. The a great honor for me to be here tonight destroyed over the last decade in the better way to deal with that is to keep to join with many of my colleagues United States, and that’s what we are that person in the home. If the person from The Majority Makers, the Class of so committed to doing, and I think is earning a little less than he was 2006, which brought change to the Con- that’s what the Obama administration earning before, or that $50,000 to gress, and now hopes to join with is committed to doing as well, to re- $35,000, and he can afford $600 versus President Obama to bring change to storing faith in the future, because $750, well, it’s simple enough. Take the the country. We’re here tonight to talk that is also what has driven our coun- difference and defer it to the end of the about the challenges facing this country, our people, our businesses, and our mortgage or amortize the mortgage 40 try that are manifold, the incredible, institutions, which is that we believe years instead of 30 years. Get the pay- unprecedented nature of our situation, there is a better time facing us, a bet- ments to where the person can still af- the opportunities that we face, because ter time ahead, and we have taken ford to stay in the home and can take every challenge comes with opportuni- those steps. We have worked as hard as care of that home and can have a roof ties, and also to talk about the budget we can and have used our ingenuity to over his head. Add value to the commu- that President Obama has proposed to realize the future that we all aspire to. nity versus having that home boarded this Congress, because it is a budget up and having it depress every other that takes us in a very different direc- So I look forward to the discussion tonight as it’s always a pleasure to be property on the street. tion in this country, echoing and rein- That’s the kind of work that we need forcing his theme of his campaign, with my colleagues. I would like to yield, first of all, to to encourage the banks to work on which was to bring change to the coun- someone who has been a consistent with our local community folks, with try. And it’s also the motivation for all participant in these discussions we’ve our homeowners, and those are some of of us who came to Congress in the had, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. the proposals that are out on the table Class of 2006. KLEIN). today. I think those are the kinds of b 1730 Mr. KLEIN of Florida. I thank the things that I’ve been hearing from our You know, I have the great privilege gentleman from Kentucky. Thanks for communities. We need to know that of serving on the Ways and Means Com- your leadership on the issues, as we the government is working on encour- mittee and also on the Budget Com- know, we have been really faced with aging banks and on finding incentives mittee. Over the last 2 days, we’ve as we move into this next congres- to get the banks to work with us. heard Secretary of the Treasury Tim- sional session. Of course, other than the stimulus, othy Geithner and OMB Director Peter It was interesting. A week ago, most which is already in place—and it’s Orszag talking about what the situa- of us were at home, speaking to people going to begin to filter into the com- tion is in the country—the economic in small businesses, speaking to home- munities over the next number of challenges we in the world face—and owners. Many of us do Congress on weeks—the last thing, of course, is fix- also what the Obama administration Your Corner, which is an idea where we ing the banks in a way that they will plans to do about them in asking for just meet at the local supermarket or lend to small businesses. I know we’re our assistance. Two things have been local drug store or local 5 and 10 and going to talk about that tonight be- very clear in listening to both of these just have a chance to talk to people cause we’re a country of small busi- two gentlemen, who are new to their about what they’re really thinking nesses. We understand that’s the life- jobs, in listening to the new adminis- about right now and how we can solve blood of our communities—to create tration and also in listening to our col- these problems that our country is jobs, to create wealth and to support leagues on the other side of the aisle as looking at. You know, it breaks down local communities. I know that there they’re responding to the initiatives of into three things: are a number of ideas we’re going to the administration. One is: What can we do to stimulate discuss which will help get those small The two things are: One, that they the economy? What can we do to gen- businesses back on track because we like to take potshots at the budget, erate consumer interest and business know that we need to get the banks to which is fair game, because this is, interest? Because, if we produce more, help out with that. after all, sometimes a partisan exer- people will buy more and demand will So, with that, I’ll turn it back to the cise. Also, the ideas that they bring to go up, all those kinds of things. What gentleman. I’m looking forward to this the debate are really no new ideas at do we do about the mortgage crisis? good discussion on how we’re going to all. As a matter of fact, listening to It’s not just the people who are sort of move forward over the next number of Republicans talk about the economic in foreclosure. There’s a very large days. situation and their suggestions for how number of people who are at jobs where Mr. YARMUTH. I thank the gen- we move forward is kind of like listen- maybe they’re earning $50,000. tleman from Florida. ing to the coach of the Detroit Lions I was just at a car dealer’s the other One of the great things about having saying, ‘‘hey, use my playbook,’’ after day, and they were telling me that the these discussions is we get perspectives they just went 0 and 16. I don’t want to owner of the company came to the 140 from all over the country, not just pick on the Detroit Lions, but that’s employees and asked them to vote on from different, more conservative, really what it sounds like because they whether they wanted to reduce their more aggressive districts but, rather, bring no new ideas to the table. salaries. He, himself, the owner, had geographically and demographically. That’s what is so impressive about taken no salary in the last year, but he There are a lot of important perspec- this team that President Obama has literally asked them if they’d be will- tives that help shape the context of assembled and about the budget that ing to take less compensation in order this discussion. he has brought to the Congress and to to avoid people being laid off. They I would now like to yield to my col- the American people. It is a budget took a vote and they did it. The reality league, the distinguished gentleman that is full of new ideas and of new ap- is someone who’s earning $50,000 may from Pennsylvania (Mr. ALTMIRE). proaches to very old and very difficult be earning $40,000 or $35,000, and some- Mr. ALTMIRE. I thank the gen- problems. one who is willing or is able to pay $750 tleman, and I thank my colleagues for

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.083 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2965 joining us tonight in this important which is the least effective, the most Mr. YARMUTH. I thank the gen- discussion. costly and the most inefficient setting tleman. I want to focus on the President’s that you can possibly get for primary I just have to add one thing because budget and, in particular, on what is health care. So we’re forcing them into I think what he has done has bril- different about this budget in that the that setting to begin with, and they get liantly answered one of the charges President has looked in a comprehen- covered, and they get reimbursed, if that’s always leveled about govern- sive way at our economy, not just at you’re the hospital, because that’s our ment action and its involvement in the crisis that we find ourselves in money. If you go to the hospital, the health care, which is, ‘‘Oh, we don’t today, at this moment in time, but also reason an aspirin costs $10 is because of want socialized medicine.’’ at how to get ourselves out and where the cost shift that takes place. When What Mr. ALTMIRE has so intel- we want to be a year from now, 5 years you have someone show up who doesn’t ligently recognized is that, whether it’s from now, 10 years from now. We all have insurance, the hospital or pro- in an organized way or in a disorga- understand that. vider will shift that cost to somebody nized way, we do socialize the cost of What the President has done with his else. That’s an obvious way. medicine across society. Right now, we budget is include within it segments of What people don’t think about is do it in a very disorganized way, which, our economy that have been ignored in that your State taxes are higher be- unfortunately, leads to both the ineffi- budgets over time—things like health cause of exploding Medicaid costs all ciencies, the added expense and the care, like energy and like education— around the country. States are forced fact that many people fall through the because what we understand in this to pay for the Medicaid program. They cracks and are not covered. So I thank Congress is we cannot move forward as shift that to the costs of the State tax- him for his comments. a nation; we can’t solve our economic payers. Think of the delivery chain, Now I would like to yield time to my problems, and we can’t move this coun- the supply chain. At every level, health good friend from Colorado (Mr. try forward and continue as the pre- care costs impact the cost of the con- PERLMUTTER). eminent Nation on the planet in this sumer. You’ve heard many times with Mr. PERLMUTTER. Thank you, Mr. global economy unless we reform our regard to the auto industry, which is YARMUTH. It’s a pleasure to be here health care system, unless we find a certainly struggling right now, that with all of you tonight to talk about way to get ourselves off of our addic- $1,500 from the price of every car made what’s going on in Congress and about tion to foreign oil and unless we con- in this country is due to the health a change that’s coming in this coun- care costs of the automaker. tinue to improve the quality of the try—a needed change, a change from Think about that. For every good education available to all students in the direction that was taken in the and service that the American people prior 8 years. this country and make education more buy on a daily basis, there is the cost accessible so we can continue to be I don’t have to tell anybody in this to manufacture it, the cost to ship it, room or anywhere else across the coun- competitive in the global economy. the cost to store it, and the cost to sell What we have set before us is the re- try that somebody drove the car into it. In every segment of that supply alization that every family, every busi- the ditch, and we’ve got to get that car chain, there is a component that adds a ness and every individual in this coun- out of the ditch in terms of the econ- premium for the cost of health care for omy—in terms of the financial and try is impacted by the cost of edu- the employers and for the employees housing systems across this country. cation, by the cost of energy and by who are involved in that little piece of We are grappling with an economy the cost of health care, and we are the supply chain. going to talk about those issues to- The salary and wages of the Amer- that’s struggling at best and with a night and certainly going forward. ican people are lower because of the deficit that we’ve inherited from the I want to focus specifically on health health care costs of the employer’s, be- Bush administration of well over $1 care. The President has laid out an am- cause they’re offering health care to trillion. What are we going to do about bitious agenda, and he has done some- their employees. Therefore, the sala- it? thing that is unique. He has allowed ries are lower. We as an American peo- The first thing you have got to do is Congress to have a say in it in a way ple are already paying in a variety of stabilize the financial and housing that has not been the case in previous ways for the people who don’t have markets. Those two things are being health care discussions. The President health insurance. We hear about the 47 done through recapitalizing the banks has said, ‘‘These are my priorities, and million Americans who lack health in- and by giving them the ability to stay while I’m willing to work with the 435 surance. We also need to remember the on their feet. The housing market we Members of the House and with the 100 tens of millions more who live in fear need to stabilize, and the administra- in the other body, let’s work with the every day of losing their coverage. tion has a complete program as to how American people,’’ because, in heart, They are one accident or illness away to do that: that’s what we are. We are Representa- from losing everything. Less than half One in terms of interest rates that tives. Let’s put together a plan that of small businesses in this country are good and creditworthy borrowers can can solve this crisis that we face, not able to afford to offer health care to take advantage of like they haven’t just with our economy but in the their employees, less than half, because been able to take advantage of in years health care system. of the double digit increases that we’ve and years and years. I mean solid loans So what are some of the things that seen year after year after year. that aren’t fly-by-night, phony baloney we hear when we go back and we have This is simply an unsustainable types of loans but 5 percent interest Congress on Your Corner? course that we’re on, but rather than rates available to good and credit- Well, when we talk about the cost of looking at this in isolation as one prob- worthy customers. health care, I often hear people say, lem that’s separate from the economic Second, for people who find them- ‘‘Well, why are you taking my money? situation that we face, the President selves in markets that are difficult, I’m happy with my insurance. I’m cov- and this Congress are going to work to- where the prices of the houses have ered. I have a job. I’m fine.’’ Somebody gether and are going to look at those dropped but they’re paying their way will say, ‘‘Why are you taking my items together, along with energy inde- and they’re struggling, there is an abil- money and giving it to somebody else pendence and along with education, in ity for them under the administra- who doesn’t have health care? I under- a way that we haven’t done before in tion’s proposal to refinance so that stand that that’s a problem and that taking a comprehensive look at it. they, too, can take advantage of low that’s unfortunate, but why are you These are the things that we’re going mortgage rates that are available spending my money on them?’’ to be talking about moving forward, today. For those who have been laid off What I try to explain to people is and these are the things that this or who are otherwise having trouble they’re already paying for the costs of group is going to continue to discuss in with their homes and their mortgages, that person’s health care. The most ob- these forums. there are other avenues available to vious example that you’ve heard many So I thank the gentleman from Ken- them. times is, when that person needs health tucky, and I look forward to con- So, first, we have got to stabilize the care, he goes to the emergency room, tinuing the debate. marketplace. That’s happening. Second

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.085 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2966 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 and more important is rejuvenating Mr. PERLMUTTER. That’s a great Now, I can understand people want- and invigorating the economy. We did question because, in Colorado, we sort ing to have power for their party, but that 2 weeks ago with the President’s of went into the downturn of the econ- when you want a newly elected Presi- major recovery act. omy before the rest of the country, and dent of the United States—with a tre- b 1745 we’ve been climbing out. We had a mendous majority vote and majority much smaller drop in property values, support in this country—to fail, you There are components in that of in- our employment rate has been higher, are basically suggesting that the vesting in America like we’ve never but if the job layoffs were to continue, United States of America should fail. done before or we haven’t done for we would be falling into the same ditch Because if President Obama fails in years and years and years. as the rest of the country. this most unusual time, when eco- And that investment costs money. So for somebody from Colorado, the nomic crisis has gripped this country— There is no question about it. Whether ability to maintain and build jobs— we’re in a recession that is, in fact, you’re a family or a business or a coun- good energy jobs, health care jobs, jobs probably is a depression, but we’ve try, there are times you have to invest. in rebuilding our highways, our tran- kept the linguistics of a recession— And we have invested, and those re- sit, our electric grid—that will keep you’re suggesting that the American turns we’re going to see in a new en- my State from driving into the ditch. economy and the American Govern- ergy economy, in a change in how we So we’re focused more on the jobs ment should fail. deal with our health care system and piece, but obviously having a strong With the Republicans up here talking rebuilding our infrastructure. Those re- and healthy financial system, as well constantly against what President turns are going to be long term, but as a housing market, is key as well. So Obama has done and voting against it they are jobs today. Jobs in America this affects all of us, and we’ve seen it lockstep in the Recovery and Reinvest- today. Jobs that we need desperately kind of roll across the country. ment Act, we saw a party that’s not from coast to coast. So even if in Colorado we have it bet- only being negative but is being, in my The third piece in getting this counter off today, we want to keep it that opinion, un-American. They’ve offered try back on track and changing its di- way. We don’t want it to fall farther not new ideas but negative thoughts to rection, and getting that car out of the behind. So all of us are in this to- question anything that’s being done. ditch is to restore confidence in both gether. They offer only the old and failed tax the economy and the financial systems. Mr. YARMUTH. I thank the gen- cuts. And we are working to see which regu- tleman. We had the privilege today to listen lations, which laws that were elimi- It now gives me great pleasure to in- to the Prime Minister of Great Britain, nated that should be reinstated, and troduce my colleague from the great and he said, and I may quote: But which laws or regulations have com- State of Tennessee (Mr. COHEN). sometimes the reality is that defining pounded the problem and should be Mr. COHEN. I appreciate the oppor- moments of history come suddenly and eliminated so that we can restore con- tunity to join with my colleagues and without warning, and the task of lead- fidence, reinvigorate the economy and the Majority Makers Caucus on this ership then is to define them, shape stabilize the markets. March 4, 2009. It’s been 76 years since them, and move forward to the new All of this is going to be done start- Franklin D. Roosevelt took his first world they demand. An economic hur- ing with a tremendous deficit in this oath of office. March 4—which was then ricane has swept the world creating a country but reducing it by half over in past history when the President crisis of credit and of confidence. Cred- the next 4 years in a fiscally respon- took office—March 4, 1933, and he said, it and confidence. History has brought sible fashion. ‘‘The only thing the American people us now to a point where change is es- There is a lot of hard work for us have to fear is fear itself.’’ sential. We are someone not just to here in Congress, but even more hard President Roosevelt took office after manage our times but to transform work for people all across this country. President Hoover, and Mr. YARMUTH them. Our task is to rebuild prosperity But this country is capable of doing it, discussed some things that were about and security in a wholly different eco- has done it time and time and time the Detroit Lions, and you don’t have nomic world where competition is no again, and we will get the car out of to go back as far as the Detroit Lions. longer local but global, and banks are the ditch. We’ve got an administration You can look to what the Republicans no longer national but international. and a Congress that is dedicated to said about Mr. Roosevelt’s attempts to What Prime Minister Brown said, and doing that. And so we will change the bring us out of the Depression. And said so well, is besides the fact that we direction of this Nation and get it back they caused the Depression, President have to restore confidence—and that’s on track. Hoover and Secretary of the Treasury what I hear from every economist that With that, to my friend from Ken- Morgenthau of that Congress. And I talk to is that’s one of the problems tucky, I yield back. President Roosevelt brought us out of right now is the American public needs Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my friend, the Depression. He created work pro- to have confidence. and I’d like to ask a question of the grams that put money in the economy We came out of the Great Depression. gentleman from Colorado who has done and put people to work. And he made a We’ve come out of smaller depressions, such incredibly important work on the major difference. He transformed this recessions, and we’ll come out of this Financial Services Committee and on American economy. one. But we won’t do it with naysayers these issues of which he spoke. Once again, the Republican responses saying that it won’t happen and this One of the things that we face, I are similar to what we saw pre-1933. plan will fail and not offering an alter- know in terms of the housing situa- They’re similar to what we heard in native. tion, is that we have a very different 1993 when President Clinton was look- And it’s a worldwide problem. And situation from place to place in the ing at bringing about a balanced budg- what Prime Minister Brown said to us country. We know certain areas of et and the Republicans said that is basically his government and the California and Nevada and Michigan wouldn’t work. And the Republicans governments of the world are doing the have suffered to a far greater extent have said many of the same things same thing that our government is than many other areas. And in some of about this proposal depending entirely doing and doing it together in a united these areas, where housing values have on tax cuts and entirely on the same front: stimulus packages, reforming not declined as much, and some other type of issues and policies that have banks and making sure that we can go ones, I know some of the citizens won- gotten us into the ditch that we’re in into a new economy and create jobs. der, ‘‘Why should I worry about helping now. The President’s plans create new jobs the people in California or Nevada? The fact is we need to move forward by going into broadband and extending What’s in it for me?’’ and the leader of the Republican Par- broadband into rural areas and inner Mr. PERLMUTTER. Would the gen- ty’s philosophy is none other than cities to create jobs and give people ac- tleman yield? Rush Limbaugh. And Rush Limbaugh cess to the Internet; seeing that health Mr. YARMUTH. I’m asking the gen- has said he wants this American Presi- care costs are controlled, which is tak- tleman a question. dent to fail. ing a larger and larger percentage of

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.086 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2967 our budget and threatens American in- voted against giving States moneys for got 40 percent off today and you hap- dustry that has to bear those costs, Medicaid when we know we’re going to pen to miss that sale and you go back while, in most other countries where have more and more need for Medicaid the next day and it’s back to regular they have national health care, the because more people fall in that cat- price, you can’t say the store raised government bears it and not the indus- egory and can’t afford their health prices, you just missed the oppor- try. And we’re competing against for- care. And they voted against extending tunity. Well, in this situation, the eign producers who don’t have that as people food stamps, and those moneys, wealthiest Americans did not miss the part of their costs, so it’s a disadvan- particularly food stamps and unem- opportunity, they took full benefit of tage that we have. And General Motors ployment, are the most timely. those tax cuts for the last few years. and Ford and Chrysler have that dis- Those people are in desperate need, Meanwhile, the great disparity between advantage. targeted to those who will spend it im- the wealthiest Americans and everyone But we’re trying to control health mediately because they don’t have re- else continued to grow to unprece- care costs, and we’re trying to invest sources otherwise, and temporary be- dented levels. And now that this Presi- in education. We’re putting more cause it’s a short-term amount of dent—and I assume this Congress—will money into Pell Grants and giving peo- money that’s expended. And those peo- say, let’s restore some more fairness to ple an opportunity to get better jobs to ple spend it immediately. They won’t the tax code, let’s let those tax cuts ex- compete on the world scale where it is spent it on their condos and vacation pire, the rich can pay marginally more global and not local for competition for vistas that they might go to someplace than they have been since the Bush ad- jobs. Investing more and more in else, but they will spend it in their ministration cut taxes, and now science. neighborhoods and their communities. they’re complaining that that’s a tax And in the previous discussion to this And they’ll be taxed, sales taxed imme- hike, which is frivolous. hour, we heard people on the Repub- diately and put money into State and Mr. COHEN. Would the gentleman lican side talk about science. They local governments who need that yield? talked about stem cells. We put over money to provide law enforcement and Mr. YARMUTH. I would yield to my $10 billion into the National Institutes other services. friend. Mr. COHEN. Is it accurate to say of Health. I was really pleased that So, Mr. YARMUTH, my friend from that 95 percent of the Americans—and happened. I’d offered an amendment to Kentucky, and the other sophomore nobody with an income of a quarter of do something similar, and it was Majority Makers I have joined here, I a million dollars a year or less—would passed by Senator HARKIN on the Sen- think we need to think about Franklin see a tax increase and, in fact, would ate side. Roosevelt and the only thing we have That’s going to be putting scientists get a tax cut under this plan? to fear is fear itself. That was kind of Mr. YARMUTH. That is clearly the to work finding cures for the illnesses what President Obama talked to us that they were talking about but re- effect of the President’s budget, and it about in his State of the Union and ad- was clearly the effect of the recovery fused to fund: heart disease, cancer, dressed us about when he was sworn in. plan that we passed recently. And I Alzheimer’s, AIDS, diabetes, Parkin- A confidence that this country is a think it was well justified. And I think son’s. Those illness can be cured or great country and this government will the American people appreciate it and treatments can be found if we give overcome the obstacles that we face, understand that—they know a tax cut enough opportunity for scientists to do though they be great, and we will be when they see it and they know a tax their studies, and the National Insti- the greatest country on the face of the hike when they see it. And 95 percent tutes of Health is the organization Earth in the 21st century as we’ve been of the people in this country will see from which those funds come. in the past. their paychecks increase, and they There have been so many falsehoods But we need to think in new ways. know that that’s not a tax increase. So put out about this bill, and I would like We need to invest in new sectors to I thank the gentleman. to share a few with the American pub- provide new jobs and to give our people Now it gives me great pleasure, we’ve lic here. One is—and I found this most the resources and tools they need be- been around the country from Florida interesting. The Republicans have cause we’re a greet people. And I think to Colorado to Tennessee and Ken- claimed that under this bill—and many you can usually see history repeating tucky and Pennsylvania, now it gives people have probably heard this—that itself. You see it being repeated here me great pleasure to introduce my col- each job will cost $275,000 per job. Paul with Franklin Roosevelt, that Con- league from Connecticut (Mr. Krugman, a Nobel Prize winning econo- gress; President Obama and this Con- COURTNEY). mist called that a ‘‘bogus charge.’’ He gress. Mr. COURTNEY. Thank you for orga- said, ‘‘Why is it bogus? Because it in- Thank you, sir. nizing this colloquy. volves taking the cost of a plan that Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my friend. As Congressman COHEN said today, will extend over several years creating I want to tag along a little bit about this Chamber earlier today was a place millions of jobs each year and dividing the tax discussion because, it’s inter- of a historic event where the Prime it by the jobs created in just one of esting, there’s an old saying that when Minister of England, Gordon Brown, those years. It is as if an opponent of all you have is a hammer, everything addressed the people of our country as the school lunch program were to take looks like a nail. And what we’ve seen well as both Chambers. And he, I think, an estimate of the cost of that program out of our colleagues on the other side did a magnificent job about, number over the next 5 years and divide it by is the only policy that they even think one, talking about the economic crisis the number of lunches provided in just about when it comes to the economy is that we’re in in global terms, the num- one of those years and asserts that the tax policy and the need to cut taxes. bers in terms of lost jobs—lost wealth program was hugely wasteful because The Republican-run Congress, con- that has taken place over the last 6 it cost $13 per lunch while the actual trolled Congress, in 2001 and then 2003 months is historic and staggering—but cost of lunch was $2.57.’’ cut taxes. Most of that tax cut went to reminded us that the focus has always There have been so many false fig- the very wealthiest people in the coun- got to be on the impact, person by per- ures put out and accusations con- try. That tax cut was scheduled to ex- son, in terms of jobs that are lost. cerning different programs in the bill pire in 2011. And now that the Presi- In this country, where we have lost, and the different economic plans that dent’s budget would allow those tax as of the end of January, 3.6 million have been put forth by the Obama ad- cuts to expire for the very wealthiest jobs, because of our health care system ministration. Americans, those making over $250,000 being tied to employment there is an We know from Larry Summers and a year, our colleagues on the other side added blow that families suffer when others that stimulus moneys need to be want to say we’re raising taxes, which there is a layoff, which is that people timely, targeted, and temporary. And is not true at all. are confronted with the almost impos- they voted against giving the people sible choice of maintaining their who are on the front lines, the Purple b 1800 health insurance by paying for COBRA Hearts of this recession, more extended In fact, the way I look at it is, if you premiums—which in a State like Con- unemployment compensation. They go to a store, and the store says we’ve necticut, for an individual that is

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.088 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2968 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 about $6,000 or $7,000 a year, $12,000 for passage of the American Recovery and the same time assisting people who a family—or letting their health insur- Reinvestment Act. have fallen on hard times. So I just ap- ance just lapse. So, again, a measure which will pro- preciate working with all of you to get One of the things that was included vide the individual, which Prime Min- going on these problems and to turn in the Recovery Act—and it has now ister Brown talked about, which al- this around. been 2 weeks since the President signed ways should be our focus, will benefit I will now yield back to my friend that measure in Denver, Colorado—is not just that individual and their fam- from Kentucky, or to my friend from that we have seen, I think, Member of- ily, but also our overall system of pub- Connecticut. fices, have a chance to sort of see our lic finances and health care coverage; Mr. COURTNEY. Just to sort of close constituents vote with their feet in again, hopefully just an appetizer in the note there, which is that, as dif- terms of the interests that they’ve ex- terms of the main course of health care ficult and challenging as the time pressed about different components. reform, which this administration is, we’re living in for individuals like my And in my office, certainly, the COBRA again, beginning to unfold with the re- friend I just described, or the macro subsidy, which was a measure that was lease of its 2010 budget, and a Congress picture, the fact of the matter is we included in the Recovery Act—again, a that is ready to roll up its sleeves and can do this. As the Prime Minister historic effort by the government to go to work in terms of all the key com- said, we have to maintain our opti- step in and provide families with 65 mittees. mism, and we will, because that’s the percent of the premium costs if they So this stimulus bill, the American nature of our country. And we’re going are laid off—again, something that has Recovery and Reinvestment Act, has to get through this and fix this prob- never happened in any prior recession many, many components to it, which lem. And thank God we’ve got a Presi- or economic downturn—is the piece of we’ve talked about over the last few dent who’s ready to work with this the Recovery Act that’s gotten the weeks or so and will continue to do so. Congress and get this country turned most traffic in terms of phone calls and But clearly, the COBRA subsidy, a new, around and moving in the right direc- inquiries into my office. unprecedented effort by the govern- tion. I’d like to, again, as Prime Minister ment to step in and help unemployed With that, I yield back to Mr. Brown indicated, share a story in my workers—which are, sadly, going to in- YARMUTH. district of a guy, Tim Jensen, he’s a re- crease at least in the short term— Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my friends. porter for a small weekly newspaper, Mr. PERLMUTTER. Would the gen- And I think one of the things that is so got laid off last September. He’s one of tleman yield? impressive about this budget that we these guys that would show up with a Mr. COURTNEY. Sure, I would be have had submitted to us is it is unique camera and a pad and pen at any event, happy to. in so many ways and it is trend setting supported every parade, community Mr. PERLMUTTER. Well, Mr. in so many ways. event, veteran ceremony. And unfortu- COURTNEY, one of the things that I would like to yield once again to nately—as we know, the newspaper you’ve made the point so well, and Mr. my friend from Florida (Mr. KLEIN) to business has suffered along with many, DREIER, when he and I were arguing talk about how this budget may differ many other industries in our country— about the stimulus bill 2 weeks ago, is from budgets we have seen. he lost his job in September. To com- the immediacy of this, the urgency of Mr. KLEIN of Florida. Well, I thank pound that, as I indicated, he had to this. The time to act is now, not 10 the gentleman for the discussion today. foot the bill for COBRA extension, and weeks from now, not 20 weeks from Because I think if we think about how to compound that even further, he was now. I mean, your friend’s life was on we plan our family budgets, whether diagnosed with cancer later this fall. the line. Mr. DREIER’s friend, it was a it’s sending your kids to college, So now he’s in a desperate Hobson’s tragedy because of job layoffs and a whether it’s planning for retirement, if impossible choice of whether to main- number of other things. So Mr. DREIER, you’re in retirement, making sure that tain his health insurance, depriving his explaining it as somebody on the other the investments you have, even in dif- family of literally food on the table, or side of the aisle, but still wanted to ficult times like this, will pay for the give up his health insurance at a time vote no. expenses that you have, these are all when he literally has a life or death And what I’ve seen—and not to really things, it’s all about certainty, and it need for medical treatments. The pick on the other side because it’s time is about trying to know where you will Obama plan, which is to provide a 65 for us to move forward in a positive be and plan for the future. I know a lot percent subsidy for people like Tim way—their position is, just say no, we of small businesses I talk to, they want Jensen, is literally a life safer. It is like the status quo. This country can’t to know for sure about how they will going to provide him and his family afford the status quo any longer. We be in a position to plan their capital with the means to maintain that need to move quickly, we need to move budget, cover the expansion, make the health insurance coverage and avoid, with purpose, and we need to move investments in their equipment and again, just a total catastrophe for him now. Because whether it’s to maintain things like that. and his family. or create new jobs, provide COBRA So one of the things we’ve been work- And it does tie in to the issue which where jobs have been lost, maintain ing on is this budget. And the budget of I know we’ve been talking about here State government—backfilling them so course is the plan for this next year’s today, which is the impact on the pub- we keep the teachers and the fire- fiscal spending of our government. And lic finances of this country. The fact of fighters and the policemen and the of course there are a lot of fixed ex- the matter is that people who do lose maintenance workers employed in this penses, there are things like, every- their health insurance end up being a difficult time—or to assist people who thing from prisons to roads to our mili- public cost later down the food chain of have suffered, we’ve got to move now. tary and defense and veterans, which our health care financing system, ei- And this Congress and this President are so important to us, particularly at ther in the form of uncompensated care are moving now. a time when we are fighting two wars in the emergency room if there is a Now, my friends on the other side and we are creating a new generation health care crisis, or they lapse and don’t like it, but their old ways—and of veterans. So as they come home, as end up in a publicly financed program I’m pointing to the record deteriora- this Congress has demonstrated, we like Medicaid or some form of public tion of the budget—have just driven us will make sure that anyone who wears assistance program for single adults, right into the ditch. I said that before. the uniform gets the benefit of making which many States operate. It is far We have to turn this around. And so we sure that this country stands behind more cost effective and rational to pro- will, under the President’s approach them and their families for all the nec- vide those individuals with a subsidy to and the congressional approach, reduce essary care that they need in the fu- maintain their existing health benefits what was a record deficit that we’ve in- ture, as well as jobs. while hopefully they will transition herited by almost half or more, doing But for the rest of the country, this back into the workforce rather than to so in a way that creates new jobs, cre- really is a question of times when we just completely abandon them, which ates a new energy economy, creates a do plan the necessary future vision. unfortunately was the system prior to health care system that works, and at And I think what President Obama has

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Each one of evaluation on a chart in pen, in many you are home, for example, with a new these is a crucial component of moving cases—not all, but many of them still technology. our economy forward. do—and that’s because their systems I had a small businessman in my area Education by far—and I’ve believed have just not kept up with. It’s not a that came to me and said he has cre- this for a long, long time; my mom is fault of the doctors, it’s just that the ated a device which can now purchase a teacher, she is a public school teach- systems have really not kept up in this and store electricity at the least expen- er, she has taught second grade. She business. Now, every other business in sive hours of the day. We know that at absolutely instilled in me the notion of the United States, we pretty much are nighttime there is a low demand for how important education is. And as on computers. Well, you still see large power and you could, if they start pric- one of the first people to go to college racks of files in a doctor’s office. So, ing it that way, you could buy it less in our family, it really has given me God forbid if something happened, let’s expensively. Boy, that makes a lot of the opportunity to do things that have say I’m at home and I have my per- sense, and then you can actually get allowed me to serve in Congress. But sonal doctor, and that doctor has my more capacity out of our existing elec- more importantly, education is the little chart. And he takes some tests, tric power plants, common sense. And best investment as a country that we my heart and all the cholesterol and these are the kinds of things that can make. And between the stimulus all the normal things, and I get sick as President Obama and many of us as plan and the budget, there is invest- I’m traveling—let’s say I’m up here in Americans understand are the kinds of ment in college education. In President Washington, D.C. Well, I may go to a things that we need to do. Obama’s speech last week he talked doctor up here, and guess what that So the gentleman from Kentucky, I about having every person who wants doctor starts with? Zero. Nothing. No am actually very excited about the to be able to get a college education file, no nothing. And if he wants to get kinds of things that are in this budget. get one. information, he has to call and maybe Well, sure, we are going to work on We see our competition around the have somebody Federal Express or some and make them a little better. world, whether it’s Singapore or China, some type of courier of the record up to Maybe some won’t work out, but I other places, the engineering degrees Washington and maybe has to take think there is a blueprint here for the and other degrees that are coming for- tests all over again. It just adds tre- future, it’s a blueprint that will get our ward; that’s an investment in their fu- mendous cost into the system instead budget back in line, put people back to ture. Well, we have a great education of having a very simple—with privacy, work, make the quality of our edu- system and a great university system, of course, secure—but a simple system cation, the quality of our health care, and community colleges and appren- to have all of the technology of health and certainly an energy policy that ticeship programs and vocational pro- care. Plus, certainly the quality of will put us into the future. This is the grams, all of these need to be nurtured medicine can be improved on as well; I kind of leadership that I am really ex- and supported. And every student who know many of my doctor friends tell cited about. wants to go to school—and every adult me that all the time. Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my col- who wants to go back to school, par- b 1815 league, and I think that is truly one of ticularly in a time like this—needs to There is an investment, an incentive the special things about this budget, is have that support because that will for doctors and providers, hospitals and that it is forward-looking, it is vision- turn into a very high productive econ- others. This is just common sense. ary, and it doesn’t rely on the tired ac- omy. Again, if we can save money it can re- tions of the past. Health care. We know health care is sult in better quality of medicine. And, furthermore, it’s such an honest just the Pacman eating up the costs in Lastly, of course, is energy, and I budget. For the first time it is totally our economy, not just for government, know many of us in this Chamber, comprehensive, so that we don’t keep not just for Medicare and Medicaid, but Democrats and Republicans, most things off the books like we have kept for private businesses. I know that Americans, understand that we have the expenditures for the war in Iraq when I was in a business, we had about got to get a grip on our energy policy and Afghanistan over the last 8 years. 75 employees. Every year—and I know and stop sending billions and billions of It puts expenses for those activities in many of the people who are on the dollars to countries that are not our the budget, projects them. It also in- floor here understand this from their friends but, in many cases, our en- cludes items for anticipating disasters businesses or people at home under- emies. We complain about Venezuela like Katrina or other natural disasters stand this—every year you go back and and Hugo Chavez, rightfully so, he is we know are going to occur but we have that conversation of what it’s very anti-American, and he is a threat. never put those expenses in the budget. going to cost to renew your health in- And what do we do? We send millions So this is fully transparent, it is surance; double-digit increases every and millions and millions of dollars comprehensive, it is honest and, again, single year—whether there has been an daily over to Venezuela and buy their it is forward-looking, and that cer- experience of sickness or anything in oil. tainly is something that I think the the business, that’s exactly what hap- Well, that makes absolutely no sense American people, as time goes on and pens, double-digit increases. So you to me and, I think, to most Americans. we discuss this budget, will appreciate have to make decisions; do you cut Well, it’s not just Venezuela, it’s all that it is large. There is no question back? Do you pass off more of the costs the Middle Eastern countries and plen- about it. We are spending unprece- to your employees? And at some point ty of other places. The sooner we can dented amounts of money and we, un- in time businesses say I can’t afford it. get into a mode where we can develop fortunately, are facing some pretty And we want to give them the oppor- alternative energy, and whether it’s substantial deficits. tunity to provide that type of health wind or wave or solar or any combina- But if we stick to this test, the odds insurance because it keeps their em- tion of electric powers out there, and of our not just recovering from our cur- ployees healthy. We don’t want people obviously there is coal and nuclear— rent situation, but from setting the showing up at the emergency room. and there are probably some answers as foundation for an incredible era of So this budget has an investment of we focus our technology on some of growth and progress in this country, changing our health care system to those things as well to figure out the are greatly improved because of this make it more efficient, better quality solutions to those problems—any num- new agenda advanced by the Obama ad- of medicine. And one of the ways they ber of ways that we need to make this ministration. do this is bringing our health system country energy independent. So, as we get toward the end of our into the 21st century with health tech- What President Obama does, and I hour, I would like to recognize my nology. And this is something really certainly support, and I know most friend from Tennessee (Mr. COHEN) who

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.090 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2970 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 has also played an important role in This will be a first-time activity. We middle class to sustain itself and to one aspect of meeting the challenge of have worked with all elements in this grow and prosper. this current situation, and that is an Congress to come about with amend- And what the Obama budget at- element of the housing problem that he ments, there will be a manager’s tempts to do is redirect our energies has been particularly instrumental in amendment tomorrow, to make it to and our policies towards rewarding dealing with. where it is a last resort, to guarantee work and rewarding and enhancing the Mr. COHEN. Thank you, Mr. that the monies, the people won’t be middle class. YARMUTH. allowed to enter into the bankruptcy Now, if we are going to be successful, Tomorrow we will have a vote in this or have their mortgages changed unless we actually do have to pay attention to House on a housing bill, and many have they meet very strict criteria and pro- deficits, and it’s a contradiction, so it said that not only do we have to have vide that relief that we need to help seems, that on the one hand because of confidence in our economy to have it this housing market succeed. our fiscal situation we have to invest. come back, but we have to cure the So we help the banks tomorrow and We also have to commit ourselves to a housing problem first, which has been our financial security, really not the health care policy that’s going to make one of the main problems in causing us banks but the individual depositors health care affordable, and to an en- to go into this economic recession and with the $250,000 FDIC insurance, and ergy policy that embraces the chal- the malaise that some say the economy we help individuals in their homes with lenges of a new energy economy as is in and, indeed, it is. the opportunity to stay there and help something that can create jobs much. One of the things we are doing to- neighborhoods. And we, as Democrats, who are sup- morrow with the bill is to permanently I think this is landmark legislation, porting a middle class budget also have make FDIC insurance for banks and and I know that it’s been extended to to embrace the absolute commitment credit unions $250,000. That was some- Vermont and Kentucky as well. I to root out any waste and any exces- thing that we proposed in the first thank the anchor of our hour and the sive spending. TARP and we were able to get that former president of this class, the dis- Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my col- passed temporarily. tinguished and honorable gentleman league for his contribution. That permanent amount of money from the former Conference U.S.A. I would like to conclude this hour of will secure American investors’ depos- city, Louisville, Mr. YARMUTH. discussion from the Majority Makers, its in banks and assure people they Mr. YARMUTH. I thank my col- the class of 2006, that as this Congress have confidence which they need to league and thank him for his work on proceeds and as we work with the have and will have in the banks to this very important piece of legislation Obama administration to set a new know that their money is safe. That’s that we will be dealing with tomorrow, important for our banking system to course for the country, to lay a founda- which will be another important com- make it solid and for our constituents’ tion for growth and prosperity, a re- ponent to get the ship of state back on deposits to make them secure. turn to prosperity in this country, we The bill will also change and allow, course and to get our economy moving look forward to further discussions. for the first time, something that has again. And I think the most important been long in coming, the opportunity It gives me great pleasure to wel- thing we can say in closing is that to for people who might have to file chap- come and recognize our distinguished repeat the words of Prime Minister ter 13, bankruptcy, not a pleasant sub- colleague from Vermont (Mr. WELCH). Brown this morning, who said, who ject, not an easy subject, not an easy Mr. WELCH. Thank you. I have been kept mentioning, ‘‘faith in the future.’’ process but an ordeal where one has to listening to some of your comments, That’s what we are about, restoring go and show to the bankruptcy judge and I just want to make a few remarks faith in the future for the American their need for help, all of their assets, about the budget. We all know that we people, and this will be our main mis- their expenses, and be put on a plan for have an economy that’s facing the big- sion over the next 2 years as we pro- approximately 5 years on how they gest challenge since the Great Depres- ceed to help every American realize his would have to spend their monies. And sion, and what this budget is attempt- or her ambition for a better life. they have to have approval from the ing to do, and a lot of work getting f from where we are to where we need to court over their finances. OPPOSE OVERSPENDING In that process one can have the be, is, I think, very simple. It’s about loans that they have made on a second trying to revive the middle class. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under home, on a farm, on a family farm, on You know, when you think about the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- an airplane, on a yacht, just about recent history of America in the 1960s, uary 6, 2009, the gentleman from Iowa every type of property, modified by a when LBJ took on the challenge of try- (Mr. KING) is recognized for 60 minutes. bankruptcy judge to make it affordable ing to eliminate poverty and was suc- Mr. KING of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I ap- to the person going into chapter 13 cessful in reducing it substantially, it preciate the honor to address you here bankruptcy. The judge can reduce the was the right goal. The middle class on the floor of the United States House principal down to the secured amount, paid. of Representatives, and it is always an can extend the terms, can lower the in- And in the past 10 years, and even honor to address you, Mr. Speaker. terest rate, but the judge has not been more, the policy has been, essentially, I have spent some of the last hour lis- allowed, since 1978, because of an act of to lower taxes for very high-income tening to my colleagues, whom I appre- Congress, to modify a person’s prin- folks, also provide deregulation for cor- ciate voicing their opinions as well. I cipal residence, which is their most porations, and it has resulted in a sig- would like to take up some of their valuable possession—maybe not in a nificant transfer of wealth. The top 1 issues at the beginning, and then I will monetary fashion but generally it is, at percent of our country has enjoyed the roll it into the subject matter of this least in a spiritual way. greatest explosion of wealth since the next hour that I have. And in this particular crisis, to allow 1920s, and, in fact, who paid for that? It But first of all, when a statement people to modify their mortgages on was the middle class. was made by the gentleman from Ten- their personal residences, is similar to So the middle class paid for the pro- nessee that Rush Limbaugh wants what people can do with secondary grams that are essential, and I support Obama to fail, he didn’t say that, Mr. homes, vacation homes, yachts, air- it, that benefit the poor. The middle Speaker. He can’t be quoted anywhere ports, family farms, et cetera. We allow classes paid for the programs that were as he wants Obama to fail or President people to stay in their homes to solid- very, very generous to the quite Obama to fail. It wasn’t his intent at ify their neighborhoods, to keep houses wealthy, and it’s the middle class who, all. You have to listen to what he actu- on the tax rolls, to keep neighborhoods in the end, is getting squeezed. This ally said. solid where if your neighborhoods country has always done its best when He said he wants his policies to fail. aren’t solid, you have increased crime, it has had economic and political poli- That was a message that’s clear. It’s increased vermin, increased problems, cies that have given an opportunity for been reiterated over and over again and maintain hope for people in their people who are poor to move their way across the media and this country, Mr. neighborhoods and in their homes. up into the middle class and for the Speaker. So I have to come here and

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.092 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2971 raise the issue in the beginning that the bailout money from last fall and threw the idea of the stimulus plan that was a statement that was made, the $1.1 or 2 trillion from the stimulus over the side in 1993, after having Mr. Speaker. Rush Limbaugh said that plan from just a little over a week ago, taken a $30 billion idea and reduced it he wants President Obama’s policies to package that together, and without to a $17 billion idea, and they pitched it fail so that we can go forward and pre- many of these things that got poured overboard because it wasn’t a good serve and protect and enhance our free- into by administrative action, you’re enough idea. Well, today we have budg- dom and our liberties and our free mar- at a $2 trillion leg for one stool of ets that are proposed by the President ket economy and perhaps, and I hope what, according to the President, is a of the United States that brings us to it’s not so, perhaps our national de- multi-legged stool. So if a leg costs $2 the point where we’ll be paying $1 bil- fense as well. trillion and it’s multi-legged, I know lion a day, not $17 billion in an eco- I will stand with him on that. I have it’s not a milk stool. That would be a nomic stimulus plan like 1993 but $1 opposed these policies of overspending. one leg. It’s not a two-legged stool. I’ve billion a day. So, for example, when the I opposed the stimulus plan, and I op- never seen one of those. It’s not a fiscal year kicks in—let me say the posed the bailout plan that came in the three-legged stool or he would have calendar year. That’s a little easier previous administration. said so. So I have to presume that this thing to think about, Mr. Speaker. But It was clear from where I stood that stool that’s going to be the rebuilding when the calendar year kicks in, if you you simply cannot take money from architecture of this formerly free mar- want to keep track from the day you’re the producers of this country and pour ket economy is going to be at least watching your bowl games on how long it into a void without a plan or a strat- four legs at $2 trillion a leg, which it takes for the Federal Government to egy and how it’s going to emerge. Still, nearly doubles our national debt. spend as much money on interest as it the U.S. Treasury couldn’t tell us the I remember the President’s media would take to have paid for the entire results that would come from a $700 personnel speaking on the morning of Bill Clinton stimulus plan, well, from billion bailout plan. The President of the President’s address here in the January 1, 2, 3, 4, on up to the 17th of the United States can’t tell us the re- joint session, Mr. Speaker, and he said January, boom, you’d be done. That sults that will come from hundreds of our national debt is 10 percent of GDP, would be economic stimulus freedom billions of dollars, and, actually, more that we have to do something about day, the 18th of January, if you’re pay- than $1 trillion when you add the inter- that. It’s too high. ing this at the rate of this stimulus est stimulus plan. Well, his current budget, the one plan we have today. And so without a definable goal here, that’s just been defended by my col- Now, compare that 17 days at $1 bil- except the idea that spending is stim- leagues from the other side of the aisle, lion a day to pay for the entire Bill ulus—and I disagree with that philos- takes that share to more than 12 per- Clinton stimulus plan to just the inter- ophy, spending is not stimulus. But, cent of our GDP. In fact, it’s 12.3 per- est that we’ll have here in the Federal believing that, then the people on this cent of our GDP. That’s the current Government if we let this all go for- side of the aisle have said, well, this is President Obama budget. So this 10 ward that’s being proposed out of the a comprehensive proposal, it’s well percent of GDP that is national debt White House today. That’s $365 billion thought out. We are going to have a today becomes a 12.3 percent of na- just in interest. That’s not a stimulus more responsible budget than George tional debt if this budget is enacted plan, I’ll suggest, Mr. Speaker. I will Bush had, and in the end we are going into law, and a lament that comes from suggest that’s anything but a stimulus to have this economy that is going to his spokesman is we’ve got too high a plan. It works against us. It drains cap- grow to the point where we will be able percentage of our GDP in our national ital from the private sector. It drains to do this magnificent thing called debt. capital from the productive sector of ‘‘cut the deficit in half’’ by the begin- Well, Mr. Speaker, I think there’s an- this economy. ning of President Obama’s second term. other number that we should be con- So Rush Limbaugh didn’t say he cerned about. I’m concerned about wants President Obama to fail. He said b 1830 that. I’m concerned about the daily in- he wants his policies to fail because I heard that over here, too, although terest rate, that if all of this is enacted he’s about freedom. And I’m about free- he really said by the end of his first into law, the American people will be dom. And we ought to be about quoting term, which I think is more likely if paying $1 billion a year just in interest people correctly. Maybe if the gen- they keep going down this path. alone, $1 billion a year. tleman from Tennessee actually lis- So the words ‘‘cut the deficit in half’’ Now, I hearken back to 1992 when tened to the words that Rush echo to me. That was a goal that was President Clinton was elected. He was Limbaugh said, maybe he wouldn’t laid out by President Bush. So it seems elected under the belief of the Amer- have been so outraged. Maybe he would to me that President Obama, Mr. ican people that we were in a recession, have just said, well, we have a legiti- Speaker, is following at least one of and he convinced the American people mate philosophical disagreement, que the patterns of President Bush. we were in a recession, and you might sera. It would be okay. But that’s not And I will tell you I was not particu- go back and look at the definitions and what’s happening. They are seeking to larly moved by the idea that we could parse that so that it was, I’ll say, mar- criticize a high-profile individual in cut the deficit in half in 4 years or 5 ginally true. But President Clinton America in order to demonize him so years or whatever that might be. I came to this Congress, Mr. Speaker, that that individual can be put up as a didn’t come into this political life with and he asked for a $30 billion, that’s 30 poster for the things that they want to half of a goal. I’d want at least a whole billion with a ‘‘b,’’ economic incentive claim is wrong with their predecessors. goal. So if we can cut it in half in 31⁄2 plan, and that was supposed to put Well, here’s the problem, Mr. Speak- years or 5 years or whatever the case money out into the hands of people so er. This has been a Democratic Con- may be, why couldn’t we just eliminate they would spend it because the belief gress for more than 2 years. The 110th it? Or maybe we could just double that was that spending is stimulus. It was Congress was all in the control of period of time. If we could cut it in half going to create, though, jobs like the Speaker PELOSI. She received the gavel in 4 years, maybe we can cut it in half AmeriCorps is today and put this $30 up here in January of 2007. There’s no again in another 4 years, and then we’ll billion into this, and it was going to Federal spending in America that be down to only 25 percent of this huge bring us out of this recession that was doesn’t start in this Congress by Con- deficit that we have now. defined during the presidential cam- stitution. So any of the spending that’s But, Mr. Speaker, this deficit is paign of 1992. President Clinton been initiated since that day has been breathtaking. We are looking at the brought that argument to this Con- initiated right here on this floor in the current administration’s budget of a gress, $30 billion. And this Congress, end in the House of Representatives. deficit of $1.75 trillion. And we heard being a Democratic Congress, debated And our budgets and our deficits be- him speak to us of having to construct the $30 billion, chopped it down from come the budgets and the deficits of one leg of a multi-legged stool to get us $30 billion, finally got it down to $17 the Democrats that are in charge. out of this economic crisis that we are billion, and then decided, well, we’re That’s Speaker PELOSI. That’s Leader in. Well, the one leg, you have to add not going to do it after all. So they HOYER. That’s the committee Chairs

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.093 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2972 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 and the people who have been handed way. That’s what happened with the billion that were injected into the the gavel by the Speaker. New Deal. And the recovery process economy in rebates were saved or used And the American people need to un- that was needed to take place when to pay off debt. They didn’t stimulate derstand that this isn’t something capital was willing to take the risk the economy. So some of it was tax re- that’s driven by the minority today. again, when entrepreneurs were willing lief and to that extent it was good, but The minority that we have here today to take the risk again, that recovery on balance it wasn’t a stimulating has always driven for balanced budgets, took place through the Second World plan. This is a huge plan based upon fiscal responsibility, strong national War. the same philosophy. Spending is stim- defense, strong personal responsibility, This is where I don’t see it quite the ulus is what President Obama has said, strong families, defended the rule of same way either as the President does, Mr. Speaker. law, protected the borders. Mr. Speaker. I don’t take the position So we are today with a President that the Second World War got us out b 1845 that’s going to cut the deficit in half of the Great Depression. I take the po- I looked back and I read through by the beginning of his second term, sition that the Second World War some of the documents written by John but he’s got to create this huge deficit started our recovery from the Great Maynard Keynes. This is pure Keynes- in order to cut it in half. So if you go Depression. It brought about a massive ian economics. It was Keynes that said out and start biting off chunks of the growth in production in America in our I can solve the world’s unemployment GDP and grow from a 10 percent deficit industry, and it positioned us that by problem. We will just do this. We will of GDP to a 12.3 percent deficit of GDP, the end of the Second World War, we go out to an abandoned coal mine and if you have a President’s budget that’s were the world’s industrial power be- I will take U.S. currency and we will being proposed that takes a greater cause we had ramped up our industrial bury it in these holes around this aban- and greater share of the GDP of Amer- production here to meet the demands doned coal mine. Then we fill the coal ica, it isn’t just the deficit that counts of the world in the Second World War. mine up with garbage, and then we’ll here. The share of the gross domestic And at end of the war, we were essen- turn the entrepreneurs in the country product that was being consumed by tially the only industrialized country loose to go around and dig it up and be the Federal Government at the begin- that had maintained our industrial able to pick up this cash and take it ning of the Depression in the early base without its being destroyed by out and spend it. 1930s was 3.4 percent, Mr. Speaker. By war. So we had a comparative advan- He said he can solve all of the unem- the time the New Deal had been imple- tage, as Adams Smith would say, ployment problem in the country if mented by Franklin Delano Roosevelt against the rest of the world. And our you just give him enough cash and and we got into the Japanese attack on economy grew, and America built more they could drill these little holes Pearl Harbor, which essentially ended things and sold more things both do- around in abandoned coal mines and his New Deal, the Federal Government mestically and abroad. And by 1954 the then fill the coal mine up with garbage was by then taking over 12 percent of stock market had recovered to where it and then let the people dig through it. our GDP. It went from 3.4 percent of was on the day that it crashed in Octo- That would give them a job, of course, GDP at the beginning of the 1930s, and ber of 1929. It wasn’t the New Deal that digging up the cash, and then they under FDR it went to over 12 percent of got us out of the Great Depression. The would take the cash out and spend it, GDP before you factor in the extra Second World War gave us a very good and that would solve the economy. spending that had to take place in the start, as tragic as that world event Mr. Speaker, we are not going to Second World War. was, but the recovery required another solve an economic crisis until we Now, FDR had a significant utility to 9 years just to get back to where we produce. We have to provide incentives, this country in leading us through the were when the stock market crashed in which means getting government out Second World War. I do not take that October of 1929. Franklin Delano Roo- of the way and reducing taxes so that away from him. I applaud him for that sevelt had been dead for 9 years before people will produce. If they produce stolid leadership that he provided. But the stock market got back to where it something that has value, they will he didn’t solve the economic problem. was. So it’s not his achievement nec- take it out and market it and sell it And anybody that can come to this essarily. I think that it actually slowed and our economy will grow. And that is floor and engage in this debate and our recovery. how you stimulate the economy, by in- point out for me some data that shows And now we have, Mr. Speaker, a creasing production, not by increasing that the New Deal, which was prof- President who believes that the New spending. And it needs to be competi- ligate spending, unprecedented growth Deal was a good deal, that FDR essen- tive production that gives people a in the Federal Government role, con- tially lost his nerve and was too con- comparative advantage against the suming from 3.4 percent of GDP up to cerned about spending too much rest of the world. 12 percent of GDP, and not having any- money. So he’s concerned that FDR es- Innovations in the area of tech- thing to show for it, there’s not a le- sentially backed down, and if he had nology, for example, entrepreneurs gitimate debate on the other side. The just kept spending more and more that start businesses, people that are New Deal did not get us out of the money, then he would have been able trading, buy, sell, trade, make gain, Great Depression. to have this Keynesian effect, a real produce market, be smart about it, but To be charitable, it may have, and I stimulus effect that would have do not punish the productive sector of emphasize ‘‘may have,’’ diminished the brought us out of the Great Depression the economy, or you will wait a long, depths to which we might have other- before the Japanese attacked us on De- long time for a recovery. We know that wise fallen. I’m not convinced of that, cember 7 of 1941. Well, the world will they waited a long time for the recov- but I will just concede that that could never know. That isn’t what happened. ery of the Great Depression, from 1929 be the case. The data may show that if But the world also knows that there to 1939 to ’49 to ’54. All of that time, a you didn’t pour enough government is no historical model for bringing complete and entire more than a gen- spending in, maybe, maybe things about an economic recovery by taxing eration before they saw the recovery would have completely collapsed and your citizens to death and transferring that was brought about by two things, we would have had to build up from al- that wealth to other people and paying the Second World War and by the in- most nothing or nothing as opposed to people not to work and by asking peo- dustrial productive might that we de- building up from almost nothing plus ple to go forward and spend money that veloped and the effect of that on the one. So maybe the New Deal programs you hand to them. That’s a temporary world’s economy. diminished the depths to which we stimulus, if at all. And we tried that So, if you create, as a President of might have otherwise fallen. It cer- early last spring, a $150 billion tem- the United States, Mr. Speaker, a huge tainly provided some soup kitchens and porary stimulus plan. And you can deficit, and then you say, oh, by the be- some WPA programs and CCC camps, look for the blip in that. What hap- ginning of my second term in office I and the Federal Government stepped in pened to the consumer spending? What am going to cut my deficit in half, how and hired a lot of people, competed di- happened to jobs? It didn’t even show. would that be? It would be like the rectly with the private sector, by the In fact, about 70 percent of those $150 family budget, if I would go out and

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.094 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2973 spend, let’s say $2,000 more per month the coffee pot. It takes energy to trans- to go out there and do the work. Now, than I make, I would have a $2,000 a port it. Everything we have takes I think he is overeating just a little month deficit. And that would then be transportation. It takes trucks, it bit. But they have measured it. Cal- a $24,000 a year deficit. takes rail, it takes trains. All of that ories are energy. Human consumption But I could make my pledge to my fi- burns energy. Almost all of it takes en- of food is energy. Everything takes en- nancial advisor that I am going to cut ergy, hydrocarbon energy that comes ergy. Energy is based on carbon, and that deficit in half and just cut it down from petroleum. they want to tax carbon to the tune of to $1,000 a month. And if I needed to So if we are going to tax the carbon $646 billion. Then, to make sure it real- really bite the bullet and say, well, I that is petroleum, if we are going to ly goes to the right place, the White am going to have to do more than this, tax that we are taxing everybody in House wants to tax oil and gas di- I could maybe increase my spending to America. They are going to tax your rectly, $31.5 billion dollars. $3,000 a month or $4,000 a month, and light bill and your gas bill. That is And, by the way, if you thought you then next year it would be easy your heat bill. Your gasoline bill as made a pretty good living and maybe enough, I would just cut it back to well. And this tax isn’t going to be jumped through all these government $2,000 a month and say I cut my deficit something that is put on your invoice. hoops and were able to establish an es- in half. I am still spending the same It is going to be something insidious. It tate, then we have it set up so we were amount I was, and I still have the same is going to be something that creeps seeking to get completely rid of the kind of deficit I had. and sneaks into your bills so you don’t death tax. But President Obama is con- That is the kind of smoke and mir- see it. It will be immeasurable. vinced that they are going to come rors language that is coming out of the I can just guarantee you if this hap- back with the death tax and eliminate White House today, and the American pens, there won’t be any study done in the loopholes, so now you can’t even people, Mr. Speaker, are sitting there this Congress or anywhere else that is hope to die for free. accepting it. They are accepting the official at least by government that That is all going on. And on top of idea that if you spend a couple trillion will tell you what it costs you to pay that, we are in two wars, Mr. Speaker. dollars, if the White House spends a this carbon tax. But it is so far meas- Two wars. There is still a conflict couple trillion dollars appropriated ured at $646 billion, the carbon tax. going on in Iraq, and I am here, out of the beginning of the spend- We are going to pay a tax on carbon. transitioning into that, and there is ing into the House of Representatives, Why? Because we have some scientists clearly a conflict in Afghanistan which and that $2 trillion in the stimulus who have decided that they want to President Obama has ordered a surge. plan is going to, get this language, save tell us all that we are suffering from Now, it seems a little odd to me that or create 3.5 million jobs. global warming. Climate change now is the President of the United States All right. Have we lost our senses? the word. And I will just say, pay at- would not admit that the surge worked Don’t we see through that clearly? I tention to language. We have gone in Iraq, but he would order one in Af- mean, this isn’t any kind of blurry, from global warming, well, actually we ghanistan, even though they are two opaque lens we are looking through. have gone from ice age. I remember ice different countries, I agree, and it is a This is crystal clear in focus. Save or age in the seventies. There was one sci- tough battle going on in Afghanistan, create 3.5 million jobs. Not new jobs, entist that was a lead scientist on pre- and I am going to stand with him on not defined jobs, not in any particular dicting that we had a coming ice age, the orders he has given. sector. Not create jobs. Save or create. and he has now shifted over to the There are many more components to So, I guess I could go back to a pret- other side. Now he says no, the Earth is it, and I trust the White House is going ty low educational level and ask maybe in global warming and we should back- to build out the State Department side one of our children, figure this out. If pedal from that as it was as we can. of this, the economic side of this, and you are going to save or create 3.5 mil- But we have gone from ice age to the strategic neighbors, and hopefully lion jobs, and if you have got a work- global warming, and now global warm- put together a more cooperative ap- force of about 142 million here in the ing is kind of hard to hold because the proach to this so that we can have a United States, let’s just say that it is Earth has been cooling for the last 10 broad and complete solution in Afghan- really clear that President Obama is years, so we have to change the lan- istan. I will stand with him on that, as going to accomplish that objective. I guage to climate change. tough as it is. can guarantee that President Obama Now, if you have to fix the climate I will not walk away from our mili- will accomplish the objective of saving change problem, you will be able to do tary. Not our military. I stand with or creating 3.5 million jobs, because, that forever. In fact, we always com- them and I stand with their mission. first of all, they aren’t new jobs, and plain about the climate changing on us Their mission has been in Iraq, and ev- second of all, if you don’t create a sin- on a regular basis, wherever we come erybody serving there in the last few gle one and you still have 3.5 million from. In Iowa, the climate is changing years not only volunteered for their jobs left in America, you have met all the time. Just wait 5 minutes, it branch of the service, but they volun- your promise. will change, we say. I talked to a fellow teered knowing that they would be These are carefully parsed words and in Mississippi this morning. He says likely called up to go to Iraq. Many of pieces of language. This isn’t some- the same thing. them volunteered for that mission. thing he is speaking off the cuff and Climate change is going on all over That is our military; selfless, noble, bouncing around in between other America in little microcosmic ways. self-sacrifice, bravery like the world meetings. It isn’t like he was ambushed But you can address that and say we has never seen. The best trained, the by the press. This is the speech writers are going to fix it with government. We most disciplined, the best equipped, the carefully putting this language to- are going to fix it with a carbon tax. best armed military the world has ever gether. It has been repeated over and We are going to tax your energy. seen. over again. If you tax our energy, you are taxing Yet on the floor of this Congress, Mr. As far as I know, the press hasn’t every single component of America’s Speaker, in the 110th Congress, the pre- said, Mr. President, isn’t it true that if economy. You can’t turn on your com- vious Congress, there were more than there are 3.5 million jobs left in Amer- puter without taking energy. You can’t 40 votes brought to the floor that were ica, you will have kept your promise? light up your Blackberry. You can’t designed to unfund, underfund, or un- That is what the promise is, Mr. make a cell phone call. You can’t turn dermine our troops while they are at Speaker. on your lights. You can’t get in a taxi- war under orders to face the enemy. There are also many other promises. cab or on the Metro or drive your car. And they face them in a way that was One of them is we are going to have a I suppose you can’t ride your bicycle or a 360 degree battlefield. You never carbon tax. So we are going to tax en- go out to the farm and pitch a couple knew when they were going to be hit, ergy. Well, everything that we have in bales. But they have already figured there was no one that was in a safe America takes energy to produce or de- out it takes energy to do that, and zone, some safer than others. liver. A cup of coffee takes energy to they are measuring against ethanol. A Yet in all of this, President Bush heat it. It takes electricity to fire up farm worker takes 4,000 calories a day took a look and decided he did not

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.096 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2974 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 want to capitulate to the other side. I think that is a generation away be- Basra last year, and that turned out to And even though the advice that he fore they reach that level. I think the be something that seemed to be ten- was getting from many of his top mili- 18th benchmark was completely uous but turned out to be successful, tary officers was essentially we are not unreachable, although they have made and it was a key component in estab- in a position to win this war, Mr. Presi- substantial progress. But I won’t say it lishing Baghdad and the central gov- dent, and the implication was that he has been substantially completed or ernment as being in charge in the should just simply order a withdrawal, wholly completed at this point. So 17 of country of Iraq. let me put it this way, a cynic would 18 benchmarks, and the remaining one So however we measure this, by any say declare victory and leave, but you is an independent Iraqi Security Force. complete objective measure, there has can never declare victory and leave and Seventeen of 18 benchmarks have been been a definable victory achieved in call it a victory in a war. achieved, Mr. Speaker. Iraq. In a way it is like a street fight. The I am introducing, I have today intro- That’s what this resolution does, Mr. person that is standing there when it is duced a resolution that addresses this. Speaker. And it thanks and honors our over is the one that wins. And if you The resolution is a resolution that ac- military for their sacrifice of life and don’t occupy the territory you fought knowledges and recognizes the achieve- limb and blood and treasure and time over, you don’t get to say we won that ments there. Seventeen of 18 bench- away from their homes and having war, we just got tired of it and left and marks have been achieved. That is one their destiny changed. No one served in when home. The world knows that, his- point. that country without having the des- tory knows that, President Bush knows Another is American casualties in tiny of their life turned in one way that. Iraq. Since the 30th of June, 2008, we other. Some of them lost their lives. That is why he had the vision and the have lost more of our military to acci- Some of them lost their limbs. All of leadership to give the order for a surge. dents than we have the enemy; more to them were affected in a way that it It was a well-researched strategy that accidents than we have the enemy, Mr. changed them, in a small way some had many components to it, not just Speaker. That is a measure too of a perhaps, and in a very large way, oth- the military tactical, but many the war that is going in the right direction. ers. It caused the breakup of some fam- other components to it as well. And as The civilian deaths in Iraq have gone ilies. There were divorces because of that strategy was put together, and I down by 90 percent and the ethno-sec- the long deployments. There was a made a number of trips over there and tarian deaths in Iraq have dropped by price paid by wives and husbands and met with our top officers while this 98 percent. children. was being put together, I was sold on And yet, in this country, we bicker b 1900 the strategy before it had a name, I here trying to undermine an effort. was sold on the strategy before it was There’s a long period there where you And now, this Congress has a chance to actually shaped. But we see now what had no sectarian deaths, where statis- say thank you for all of that sacrifice. This Congress has a chance to ratify has happened. tically so low that they were not re- President Bush ordered the surge and portable. this resolution and put it into the we swelled the troops up to over 150,000 And yet, I remember, some of my col- RECORD, in the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD there. He made the order. And, of leagues over here and some of our Sen- for all time. And some of the language in this res- course, our troops nobly complied and ate friends saying the war in Iraq is olution, Mr. Speaker, follows like this: they carried out their mission in a lost. It can’t be won. We’ve been de- The United States House of Represent- fashion that still amazes more than feated. It’s a civil war. There are sec- atives extends its gratitude to all those half of this Congress, most the country tarian deaths. It’s out of control, and within the military and civilian de- and even more of the world. we need to get out people out right partments and agencies of the United But, today the Pelosi Congress has away, just maintain enough of a rear States Government who were respon- established 18, 18 benchmarks that guard so that they don’t get shot in the sible for directing the implementation needed to be achieved in Iraq before back as they retreat from Iraq. That’s of the surge strategy, including Gen- they would be willing to support the ef- essentially the message that came eral David Petraeus and Ambassador forts and the spending that is going on from a good number of people over on this side of the aisle, Mr. Speaker, and Ryan Crocker. there. I took this in the middle of those The U.S. House of Representatives a number of them in the Senate as 40-plus votes that were designed to recognizes the importance and signifi- well, and that was part of the debate unfund, underfund or undermine our cance of victory in the Iraqi theater of troops, I took those benchmarks that on these 40-plus votes that were de- the larger global struggle against rad- were essentially imposed upon the Iraq signed to unfund, underfund or under- ical Islamic jihadists terrorists. effort to be setting the bar so high that mine our troops. And the United States House of Rep- it could never be achieved because so But what’s happened is there has resentatives commits itself to working many were invested in defeat in this been substantial achievement in Iraq. with President Obama and his adminis- Congress. We have achieved a definable victory in tration to continue the progress that Yet of the 18 benchmarks, 17 of the 18 Iraq. And I’ve introduced a resolution has been made on the ground in Iraq benchmarks have been wholly or sub- today that lays out the history on how since the surge strategy was imple- stantially achieved in Iraq. And I don’t we got there, the authority that was mented, recognizing that a definable have that list in front of me, but I can invested in the President of the United victory has been achieved in Iraq, and tell you the one that is not yet been States by this Congress to engage in that history will judge President achieved, and that is the benchmark military action if he saw fit, and the Bush’s successor by his ability to that requires the Iraqi Security Forces responsibilities that he accepted and maintain his predecessor’s victory. to be completely independent from that our military accepted, as well as That’s what’s been achieved in Iraq U.S. military support. the things that went wrong, and then today, Mr. Speaker. And I stand with So, that would be that the 613,000 the things that went right. President Obama in maintaining and in Iraqi Security Forces that are in uni- But three elections almost, the last building upon the achievements that form today that have been trained and election was so successful there wasn’t have been made in Iraq. equipped by our military, standing up a a single significant security event in- This resolution is about honoring the military from a beginning takes years, volved in the last election in Iraq in accomplishments to this point. And it’s but of those 613,000, by that 18th bench- the last weekend of January, this year. about asking and actually challenging mark they would all have to be able to And so they ratified a constitution. all of us to stand with those who have operate independent of U.S. commu- They’ve had three successful elections, sacrificed so much so that price has nications, U.S. logistical support, U.S. they have an effective central govern- meaning, so that the destiny of Amer- training, U.S. intelligence, the list goes ment. And Maliki has become a power- ica, the destiny of every individual on of all the things that we are pro- ful and influential leader that had the that served there was changed by their viding them and helping them with courage and the temerity to order his experience there. The destiny of Amer- today. own troop actions to go down into ica then needs to be changed also, as

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.097 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2975 the benefit from the price that’s been thing that was going on. That was the pipeline to go help the Vietnamese paid. some of the thought process that’s boys defend themselves, as I think that The destiny of America can be de- going on by many of the people that was the language that they used at the fined by the course of liberty and the are on staff today at the White House. time, that money was shut off too. course of freedom. And we have But there is a destiny of the free Money that I was already appropriated watched freedom be expanded around world that America leads that has to by a previous Congress and already the world. I’ve watched it in a number be attended to. It’s our duty and it’s sent by a Commander-in-Chief was shut of ways. Sometimes we’ve just fought our charge, and so, I’ll submit this, Mr. off by this Congress, along with any them to a draw, and sometimes we ex- Speaker, that America was viewed as other appropriations. When that hap- panded freedom dramatically. Free the superpower of the world. We viewed pened it starved the defense of South market capitalism expanded freedom the Soviet Union as the other super- Vietnam. No wonder they capitulated. around this world probably more than power. We called them that. But much They didn’t have anything to fight any war that there ever was. But those of the rest of the world saw us as the with. And the legacy is left that the things fit in conjunction with each only superpower in the world. And we United States walked away from one of other. had never lost a war. The world didn’t our friends and our allies. The Second World War expanded free- expect us to lose a war. Well, it started with Korea, a nego- dom. If it hadn’t been for that, we But when I picked up this book, this tiated settlement, and we got to Viet- would have been either under the con- is a book, Vietnam’s top military nam. trol of the imperial Japanese or the strategist tells how we won the war by And then, Mr. Speaker, I find myself Nazis. And yet, we defended freedom. General Vo Nguyen Giap. This is the sitting in a hotel in Kuwait City, wait- We expanded freedom. general that commanded the North Vi- ing to go into Iraq the next day. The Still, February 11, 1945, at Yalta, etnamese military during the Vietnam date was June 11, 2004. And I didn’t Winston Churchill, Franklin Delano War. And General Giap, G-I-A-P, he know at the time, I don’t think, about Roosevelt and Joseph Stalin drew a writes in here some things that are il- General Giap’s look at Korea as his in- line on a map, and the line on the map luminating. spiration. But I was watching Al was the line west of which people Now, this isn’t a very good book, and Jazeera TV, and I couldn’t understand would live in the free world and east of I don’t recommend, Mr. Speaker, that what they were saying, but they had which they would live in the slavery of people go out and buy it. I can give you English closed-caption. And I heard communism. When that line was the essence of it here in just a little this, I think, in Arabic, come out of the drawn, February 11, 1945, that set the phrase. And again, the title of the book mouth of Muqtada al-Sadr, who said, if destiny for people for more than a gen- is How We Won the War. The com- we keep attacking Americans, they eration to come, 2 generations to come. mander of the North Vietnamese, and will leave Iraq, the same way they left But by November 9, 1989, the Berlin he says here that the U.S. had already Vietnam, the same way they left Leb- Wall came down. This Cold War that begun its decline from the position as anon, the same way they left we’d fought for all of those years, along the only superpower. This book is Mogadishu. And I wrote those notes that line that was drawn at Yalta by copyrighted in 1976, so it was written down when I heard that. But it also Stalin, Franklin Delano Roosevelt and right after the fall of South Vietnam. was branded into my memory, Mr. Winston Churchill, that line fell, that General Giap said the U.S. had already Speaker. was the Iron Curtain. It came down lit- begun its decline from the position as Our enemies in Iraq and our enemies erally with a crash, beginning Novem- the only superpower. He viewed us as around the world are inspired if they ber 9 when the Berlin Wall started to the only superpower in the 1970s and in see lack of resolve. General Vo Nguyen come down. And freedom echoed for a the 1960s. That’s one way to look at it. Giap was inspired when he identified time, all the way across Eastern Eu- But he said the U.S. failure to win in lack of resolve in a negotiated settle- rope, all the way across Asia, all the Korea was the turning point. ment in Korea. And our subsequent en- way to the Pacific Ocean. That was the So, Mr. Speaker, here’s the lesson. emies in places like Lebanon and result of this victory in the Cold War. We had a Korean War, and we nego- Mogadishu were inspirations as well to And the Yeltsin era came in, in Rus- tiated a settlement rather than press Muqtada al-Sadr and our current en- sia, and the satellite states for the So- for an all out victory. I’m not com- emies that we have. These are all the viet Union declared their independ- menting on what was the right thing to terrorists worldwide. They talk about ence, and most of them are essentially do then from a military tactical stand- this. I mean, this is not something that independent today. But freedom has di- point. I am commenting on this: Set- is an original thought of Muqtada al- minished back across that vast land of tling for a negotiated settlement in Sadr. This is something that’s being Russia. It’s not what it was during that Korea resulted in an inspiration for the voiced around the world to encourage era. Most of the institutions of freedom North Vietnamese, that America didn’t and recruit our enemies. have been diminished or eliminated by have the will to press for a victory in And I’ll say, America didn’t, they the Putin era within Russia. Vietnam, so they fought a war of attri- couldn’t win in Korea. They couldn’t But we advanced freedom, we ad- tion. They fought a war of attrition win in Vietnam. They pulled out of vanced it in the Second World War dra- that went on for more than a decade. Lebanon. They pulled out of matically. But the line was drawn, And the price for that was 58,000 Amer- Mogadishu, and they will pull out of drawn between the east and the west, ican lives, hundreds of thousands of Iraq, is what they were hoping. the line of the Iron Curtain. Then the North Vietnamese lives. And this Con- Cold War was won and the Iron Curtain gress voted to shut off all funding, not b 1915 came crashing down, and hundreds of just to support American troops who Well, Mr. Speaker, there is no mili- millions of people breathe free that had already been pulled out of South tary tactical reason to pull out of Iraq would not have otherwise. Vietnam. If you remember Vietnamiza- to avoid the conflict that’s there, be- We found ourselves, though, in a con- tion. The Vietnamese were taught and cause much of our enemy has been flict in Vietnam, which was the last di- trained and equipped to defend them- mopped up by U.S. and Iraqi forces rect military conflict between freedom selves, and they had stepped up, and working in conjunction with coalition and communism. they were doing that. forces that are still there. Now, the problem with losing your This Congress shut off all funding. We must maintain this victory that nerve and losing your will when it And I went back and read the legisla- has been achieved. I have defined it to- comes to foreign policy cannot be tion. And it says, no money, none of night, Mr. Speaker, for you. We must measured in, well, it’s no longer con- these funds or any funds heretofore ap- maintain it because this is the point venient to support a war in Iraq. I’m propriated shall be spent in Vietnam, where we turn the destiny of America unhappy and uncomfortable with the North Or South Vietnam actually, and again at the price of the destiny of cost or the casualties that are there, so in Cambodia or Laos, on the skies over- hundreds of thousands of military who I’ll make an objective decision to ra- head or the seas beside these countries. have served in that country. Now we tionalize and pull out. That’s some- In other words, whatever money was in can turn the destiny of America toward

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:44 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.099 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 the positive side again, and we can dad to send me a little more money ganda that’s coming out of the mouths hand to the next generations the down here. I need more sewer, water of our enemies that says, well, we’ll world’s only superpower, who may have and lights. We’re rebuilding this town. leave Iraq the same way we left Viet- lost its will in Vietnam, who should We’ve got to get everybody off the nam, Lebanon and Mogadishu. We can’t not have pulled out of Lebanon in the dime. Why is it stuck? We need to go to have Osama bin Laden sitting in his stage that it was in, who should not work.’’ That’s what they’re doing and cave up there in Pakistan, saying, have left Mogadishu, but who did stick what they’ve done. ‘‘Well, they will leave Afghanistan the it out in Iraq and who did ensure that In Fallujah, the mayor of Fallujah same way they left Vietnam, Lebanon, the Iraqi people had their chance at says, ‘‘We are a city of peace, and we Mogadishu, and Iraq.’’ If that happens, freedom, that they had their chance at are going to repair every building in we’ve got a much larger enemy that we liberty, that they had their chance to this city so there’s no sign of war.’’ have to face and a much more deter- be as they are quickly becoming: a If Fallujah is going to be known as mined enemy that we have to face. moderate Muslim state that is our ally the ‘‘city of peace,’’ well, Mr. Speaker, They know they’ve lost in Iraq. in the Middle East in an ideal strategic that’s what has been accomplished over They’ve said so. It says so in this reso- location for them to influence the Mid- the last number of years and especially lution. We have quoted some al Qaeda dle Eastern part of the world and in an since the surge was ordered. leaders in this resolution that they ideal tactical location. This resolution that I introduced have recognized they have lost The Iraqi people on our side are un- today is a resolution that calls upon tactically the war in Iraq. They don’t derstanding this: We didn’t ever go this Congress to recognize that and to have the ability to engage in any kind there for their oil. We didn’t ever go honor the price, the sacrifice, the ac- of an organized military way. They can there to occupy. We went there to end complishments, and the achievements. cause some trouble, yes. There are a the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein, It also asks the President: Hold this to- few of them left in pockets, particu- and that happened. gether. Nurture this along. Let’s not larly in Mosul, and they’re being Whatever you argue about whether make a political decision on the de- mopped up as we speak, but there has the full spectrum of all of the reasons ployment of troops out of Iraq because been a tremendous amount that has were intact or not, the fact remains it’s a promise that you made 31⁄2 years been accomplished. that the President had to make a deci- ago when you were a State Senator. If the President can make the charge sion based upon the information he Let’s make sure that this is a tactical that he inherited a $1 trillion deficit had. He made that decision. Once it decision and also a political decision and somehow then the responsibility was made, we stood with our troops and an economic decision and a stra- for this economic crisis that we’re in and with their mission. Their mission tegic decision. If you’re going to make all falls back on his predecessor be- has been wholly or substantially com- decisions like that, when you make an cause he has inherited a $1 trillion def- pleted and will be, but we’ve got to re- announcement that all of the combat icit, never mind he has offered a $1.7 member that this is a fragile definable troops are going to be out by the last trillion budget—but if he can take that victory that has been achieved, and we day in August in 2010, as a Commander position over and over again that he in- cannot squander it, and we need to in Chief, you’ve fenced yourself in po- herited a $1 trillion deficit and this honor the Commander in Chief who litically. What’s the point? You can economy, by implication, is all going gave the order of the surge, and we order those troops to be deployed out to be on the shoulders of George W. need to honor the people who brought of this and can have all of our combat Bush, then at least, Mr. Speaker, he it about. That does include the Iraqi troops out by the last day in August of can accept the responsibility of Iraq people. It includes the Sunni awak- 2010 without having to tell the world. and the state that it’s in and can pre- ening. It includes the commitment by Just start that progression. serve the definable victory that has them in understanding that, again, we We’ve already started it, and it been achieved. didn’t go there for their oil, and we makes some sense to do that. It may That’s what this resolution does. didn’t go there to occupy. We went even make a lot of sense to do that. It That’s what it asks for. It’s what, I there to give them a chance at free- just should never, ever be a political think, the will of this Congress ought dom. They have their chance, and they decision, and there is no need to an- to be. I’m going to be asking the will continue, and they’re actually nounce it. Then also to announce that, Speaker to allow this to come forward reaching harder and stronger than by the last day of 2011, all of our mili- to the floor. maybe they have the capability of tary will be completely out of Iraq, Right before I close, Mr. Speaker, I doing. that’s actually what the Status of would yield to the gentleman from Ne- When I sit in these briefings, I get Forces Agreement says, but it also braska so much time as he may con- this, and this wouldn’t be a classified says that we can renegotiate this. sume of which I don’t think there’s a component. It’s a concern that the So, Mr. Speaker, I’ll submit that lot. Iraqis have maybe a little more con- we’ve accomplished a lot in Iraq. We Mr. FORTENBERRY. I thank the fidence in their military capability have accomplished so much that we’ve gentleman from Iowa, and I always ap- than they actually have. Well, that’s achieved a definable victory there. preciate your passion and your willing- the right place for them to be, to be This Congress needs to celebrate the ness to engage in the most profound stretching and pushing this thing and achievement of the definable victory in issues facing our country. I didn’t to be asking for as much of their own Iraq. We need to applaud everyone who mean to interrupt. If you were con- military autonomy as we can give has served there in uniform and espe- cluding, I was hoping you would yield them. We’ve given them much. We’ve cially those who have given life and time to me for about 6 or 7 minutes on given them at least all of the security limb and their families. It is a noble, another topic that I’d appreciate your in at least 14 of the 18 provinces and noble act by a noble, noble people. listening to. maybe more, and I might have missed It is best expressed, I think, at the Mr. KING of Iowa. I’d be very happy one or two. We handed over to them Korean war memorial where it says, to yield the balance I have. Anbar province, a place where 21⁄2 years ‘‘This Nation honors our men and Mr. FORTENBERRY. Thank you. ago I couldn’t go because it was too women who answered the call to serve Mr. Speaker, today, the Prime Min- dangerous, a place where, in downtown a country they never knew and a peo- ister of the United Kingdom, Gordon Ramadi, there was not a building that ple they never met.’’ Brown, spoke strongly and eloquently was not shot up. It was a rubble. It was It has happened over and over again before this body of our Nation’s a city of rubble that had been fought from the United States of America. It specialness of our shared history, tradi- over so many times—a city of death. has happened again in Iraq. It’s hap- tions, as well as our values. He also I went shopping in downtown Ramadi pening in Afghanistan. We need to pre- spoke of the past, present and future and, additionally, in Fallujah where serve those precious victories. We need challenges confronting our partnered I’ve been several times. By the way, to end this legacy of not having the nations. the mayor of Ramadi sounds like the will to complete the task that we’ve I respect this long, historic relation- mayor of Peoria. He says, ‘‘Get Bagh- started. We need to end this propa- ship that Prime Minister Brown laid

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:02 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.101 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H2977 out. There were many principles of his systems too big to succeed? Now is the Mr. Speaker, the United Kingdom has speech with which I deeply agree, such time to reconsider an essential compo- been a stalwart friend of ours through- as the defense of human rights world- nent of Western philosophy—the great out our modern history. And after two wide, nuclear security, a sustainable potential of the individual in solidarity centuries of partnership, it can be said energy future, and human rights in ad- with one’s community. I believe that that we have no greater ally. In no way dition to the fact that he also proposed America, the United Kingdom and the do I seek in these comments to under- a broad, vast, new array of new ideas other strong financial powers in Eu- mine that. Our two nations will be for- that can help bring about a new day rope should take this time to empower ever grateful for our aid to one another and mantle of leadership in this essen- individuals and communities to pro- during times of both war as well as tial area of need for our world’s poor. vide for themselves through a network peace. However, he also proposed a ‘‘global of strong local and regional economies. The United Kingdom is our greatest new deal,’’ a new deal that is not clear- As the Prime Minister added, Amer- ally in preserving our long-standing ly defined but that is pointed toward a ica is a nation of extraordinary capac- commitment to the inalienable human vast, new, international arrangement. ity, and to spur growth, I believe it is rights, especially for vulnerable popu- With regard to the current financial imperative that our government’s ef- lations. I deeply value the Prime Min- difficulties in our developing global forts be targeted toward helping small ister’s words that when the strong help economy, it is indisputable that our business entrepreneurs whose successes the weak, it makes us all stronger. And economic challenges affect the rest of will be the bellwether of economic this certainly rings true with regard to the world. America has a long history progress. the pursuit of international policies of meaningful trade with other nations, Recent data from the Commerce De- that recognize the inherent dignity and especially with our partner Great Brit- partment shows that small businesses rights of the human person, which are ain, but America also has an entangled have generated 60 to 80 percent of new essential to preserve liberty and justice relationship pertaining to our national jobs over the past decade. By enacting in the world. debt. We have borrowed from the good commonsense initiatives to ben- However, Mr. Speaker, let me make United Kingdom, China, Japan, and efit entrepreneurial growth, we may this clear: we should give long pause from numerous countries in the Middle create local jobs and new opportunities before becoming more intertwined in East to finance our burgeoning debt to stem the tide of economic difficul- an internationalist, industrial finan- and to accommodate our deficit spend- ties in our communities, our State and cial model for the future. Let us con- ing. Much of this has been discreet and nationwide. tinue our strong relationships of com- out of the public eye, but the implica- Mr. Speaker, I believe that it is local merce with the United Kingdom and all tions of foreign ownership of Federal financiers and local businesses who other nations, but let us not find our fi- debt instruments are greatly signifi- best know the needs of their commu- nancial wellbeing entangled in com- cant. nities and who are, in the very essence, plex, poorly understood, exotic, inter- Approximately half of the total pub- more transparent and accountable. national economic alliances. Instead, lic debt is in foreign ownership. At This is the motto we should return to, let us embrace a new philosophy of re- some point, Mr. Speaker, global inves- and it is the proper motto for us to covery and renewal based on the time- tors may grow weary and may decide help lead in building sustainable local honored principles and notions of indi- not to take the risk of buying our debt. economic connectedness for the world’s vidual responsibility, entrepreneurship We would consequently be faced with developing nations. and community. the choice to stop borrowing to finance I thank the gentleman for the time. I yield back the balance of my time. our deficit spending or to raise interest Mr. KING of Iowa. I thank the gen- rates in order to attract investors. If tleman, and I would yield back the bal- f any of these countries chose to quickly ance of my time. LEAVE OF ABSENCE sell their U.S. holdings, a tumultuous f By unanimous consent, leave of ab- devaluation of the dollar could quickly b 1930 sence was granted to: ensue. As Prime Minister Brown said, we A NEW PHILOSOPHY OF RECOVERY Mr. DAVIS of Illinois (at the request are all seeing how certain ‘‘financial AND RENEWAL of Mr. HOYER) for today. instruments have spread contagion The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a f throughout the world.’’ This is cer- previous order of the House, the gen- SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED tainly true, and I appreciate the Prime tleman from Nebraska (Mr. Minister’s calls for further trans- FORTENBERRY) is recognized for 5 min- By unanimous consent, permission to parency and accountability. However, I utes. address the House, following the legis- challenge his presupposition that a Mr. FORTENBERRY. Mr. Speaker, lative program and any special orders greater global consolidation of finan- again, the gentleman from Iowa was heretofore entered, was granted to: cial systems is in our national or in the kind enough to allow me to borrow (The following Members (at the re- international community’s best inter- some of his time. And I appreciate, quest of Ms. WOOLSEY) to revise and ex- est. again, his passion and his focus on the tend their remarks and include extra- Financial consolidation, extreme vol- essential issues of the day. But I’d like neous material:) atility and speculation in world mar- to continue, just briefly, the discussion Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. kets, reckless use of exotic financial that we were engaging in at the mo- Ms. BERKLEY, for 5 minutes, today. instruments, liberalized credit have ment regarding the Prime Minister of Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. certainly contributed to the current the United Kingdom’s address before a Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. collapse. The global scale of the credit joint session of Congress today. Mr. HOLT, for 5 minutes, today. crisis and confidence should give us And let me add, Mr. Speaker, that (The following Members (at the re- pause to consider that our profound Prime Minister Brown rightly warned quest of Ms. FOXX) to revise and extend economic connectedness may actually us earlier of the dangers of protec- their remarks and include extraneous cause more problems instead of pros- tionism. But in no way is it protec- material:) perity. The increasing concentration of tionist, I should add, to want to con- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, for 5 minutes, wealth assets into fewer and fewer fi- solidate our economic recovery efforts today. nancial institutions will increase our on Main Street. More than any bailout Mr. POE of Texas, for 5 minutes, financial vulnerability. One of our crafted by Washington or Wall Street, March 11. greatest concerns right now is how to it is a return to our hard-fought Amer- Mr. JONES, for 5 minutes, March 11. stabilize banks and financial entities ican ideals of responsibility, discipline, Mr. FLAKE, for 5 minutes, today. that are deemed ‘‘too big to fail.’’ entrepreneurship and stewardship that Mr. DUNCAN, for 5 minutes, today. Well, Mr. Speaker, I believe we need will actually help Americans build a Mr. CHAFFETZ, for 5 minutes, today. a paradigm shift, a new paradigm. We more just and secure future for our- Ms. FOXX, for 5 minutes, March 5. should be asking: Are these financial selves, as well as for the world’s poor. Mr. GOHMERT, for 5 minutes, today.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:02 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR7.103 H04MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with HOUSE H2978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 4, 2009 (The following Members (at their own Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA-2009-0054; Direc- et authority; to the Committee on the Budg- request) to revise and extend their re- torate Identifier 2008-NM-222-AD; Amend- et, and in addition to the Committee on marks and include extraneous mate- ment 39-15802; AD 2009-03-01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) Rules, for a period to be subsequently deter- rial:) received February 24, 2009, pursuant to 5 mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on sideration of such provisions as fall within Mr. HARPER, for 5 minutes, today. Transportation and Infrastructure. the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. Mr. FORTENBERRY, for 5 minutes, 775. A letter from the Program Analyst, By Mrs. BIGGERT (for herself, Mr. today. Department of Transportation, transmitting BACHUS, Mr. NEUGEBAUER, Mrs. f the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness CAPITO, Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Directives; Cessna Aircraft Company Models Florida, Mr. ROGERS of Michigan, Mr. ADJOURNMENT 401, 401A, 401B, 402, 402A, and 402B Airplanes JONES, Mr. SHIMKUS, Mr. ROONEY, Mr. Mr. FORTENBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I [Docket No.: FAA-2009-0118; Directorate SESSIONS, Mr. TURNER, Mr. SMITH of move that the House do now adjourn. Identifier 2008-CE-073-AD; Amendment 39- Texas, Mr. PAULSEN, Mrs. BONO 15810; AD 2009-04-04] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received MACK, Mr. LANCE, Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. The motion was agreed to; accord- February 24, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. REICHERT, Mr. CASTLE, Mr. MCCAUL, ingly (at 7 o’clock and 32 minutes 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois, Mrs. MILLER p.m.), the House adjourned until to- tation and Infrastructure. of Michigan, and Mrs. SCHMIDT): morrow, Thursday, March 5, 2009, at 10 776. A letter from the Program Analyst, H.R. 1295. A bill to mitigate mortgage fore- a.m. Department of Transportation, transmitting closures, facilitate and include fairness in the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness housing recovery, and combat mortgage f Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 fraud, and for other purposes; to the Com- EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Series Airplanes, and Airbus Model A340-200, mittee on Financial Services, and in addi- ETC. -300, -500, and -600 Series Airplanes [Docket tion to the Committees on Ways and Means, No.: FAA-2009-0122; Directorate Identifier and the Judiciary, for a period to be subse- Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive 2008-NM-223-AD; Amendment 39-15813; AD quently determined by the Speaker, in each communications were taken from the 2009-04-07] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Feb- case for consideration of such provisions as Speaker’s table and referred as follows: ruary 24, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee 768. A letter from the Chairman, James- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- concerned. town 400th Commemoration Commission, tation and Infrastructure. By Mr. CLYBURN (for himself, Mr. transmitting the Commission’s final report 777. A letter from the Assistant Adminis- ABERCROMBIE, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. on the 18-month program of commemorative trator Office of Policy and Strategic Plan- BISHOP of New York, Mr. activities and events of Jamestown’s 400th ning, Small Business Administration, trans- BLUMENAUER, Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. anniversary; to the Committee on Oversight mitting the Administration’s study done of BOSWELL, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. and Government Reform. the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Con- BUTTERFIELD, Mr. CARNEY, Mrs. 769. A letter from the Acting Assistant At- sumer Protection Act of 2005; jointly to the CHRISTENSEN, Mr. CLAY, Mr. COSTA, torney General, Department of Justice, Committees on the Judiciary and Small Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. DAVIS of transmitting the Department’s first Quar- Business. Tennessee, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. COOPER, Mr. terly Report, pursuant to Public Law 110-389; REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON to the Committee on the Judiciary. DELAHUNT, Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. 770. A letter from the Program Analyst, PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS ELLISON, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. FILNER, Mr. Department of Transportation, transmitting Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness committees were delivered to the Clerk GRIJALVA, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. HIG- Directives; Pratt & Whitney PW4090 and for printing and reference to the proper GINS, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Ms. LEE of California, PW4090-3 Turbofan Engines [Docket No.: calendar, as follows; FAA-2007-29110; Directorate Identifier 2007- Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mrs. MALONEY, NE-35-AD; Amendment 39-15808; AD 2009-04- Mr. HASTINGS of Florida: Committee on Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts, Mr. 02] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received February 24, Rules. House Resolution 205. Resolution pro- MEEK of Florida, Mr. MOORE of Kan- 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the viding for further consideration of the bill sas, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Mr. Committee on Transportation and Infra- (H.R. 1106) to prevent mortgage foreclosures MORAN of Virginia, Mr. MURTHA, Mr. structure. and enhance mortgage credit availability NADLER of New York, Mrs. 771. A letter from the Program Analyst, (Rept. 111–23). Referred to the House Cal- NAPOLITANO, Ms. NORTON, Mr. OLVER, Department of Transportation, transmitting endar. Mr. ORTIZ, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. PASTOR the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness f of Arizona, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation AE PERLMUTTER, Mr. PRICE of North 3007A1E and AE 1107C Turbofan/Turboshaft PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Carolina, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, Mr. ROTHMAN of New Jer- Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2008-0230; Direc- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public sey, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. RUSH, torate Identifier 2007-NE-24-AD; Amendment bills and resolutions of the following 39-15809; AD 2009-04-03] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- Mr. SARBANES, Ms. SCHWARTZ, Mr. ceived February 24, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. titles were introduced and severally re- SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. SERRANO, Ms. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- ferred, as follows: SHEA-PORTER, Mr. SIRES, Ms. tation and Infrastructure. By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia (for himself, SLAUGHTER, Mr. SPRATT, Mr. TOWNS, 772. A letter from the Program Analyst, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. SMITH of Texas, Mr. Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. WEINER, Mr. Department of Transportation, transmitting GOHMERT, Mr. FORBES, and Ms. JACK- WELCH, Mr. WEXLER, Mr. WILSON of the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness SON-LEE of Texas): Ohio, Mr. WU, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. Directives; Turbomeca Turmo IV A and IV C H.R. 1292. A bill to amend title I of the Om- CLEAVER, Mr. FARR, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. Series Turboshaft Engines [Docket No.: nibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of SALAZAR, Mr. ROSS, Mr. THOMPSON of FAA-2006-25730; Directorate Identifier 2006- 1968 to establish a National White Collar California, and Ms. SCHAKOWSKY): NE-31-AD; Amendment 39-15798; AD 2009-02- Crime Center grants program for purposes of H.R. 1296. A bill to achieve access to com- 08] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received February 24, improving the identification, investigation, prehensive primary health care services for 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the and prosecution of certain criminal conspir- all Americans and to reform the organiza- Committee on Transportation and Infra- acies and activities and terrorist conspir- tion of primary care delivery through an ex- structure. acies and activities; to the Committee on the pansion of the Community Health Center 773. A letter from the Program Analyst, Judiciary. and National Health Service Corps programs; Department of Transportation, transmitting By Mr. BUYER: to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness H.R. 1293. A bill to amend title 38, United By Mr. ABERCROMBIE (for himself Directives; Wytwornia Sprzetu Komunika- States Code, to provide for an increase in the and Ms. HIRONO): cyjnego ‘‘PZL-Rzeszow’’ S.A. PZL-10W Tur- amount payable by the Secretary of Vet- H.R. 1297. A bill to establish the Hawai’i boshaft Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2008-1068; erans Affairs to veterans for improvements Capital National Heritage Area, and for Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-33-AD; and structural alterations furnished as part other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Amendment 39-15807; AD 2009-04-01] (RIN: of home health services; to the Committee Resources. 2120-AA64) received February 24, 2009, pursu- on Veterans’ Affairs. By Mr. BERRY (for himself and Mrs. ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee By Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin (for himself EMERSON): on Transportation and Infrastructure. and Mr. KIRK): H.R. 1298. A bill to amend the Federal 774. A letter from the Program Analyst, H.R. 1294. A bill to amend the Congres- Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect Department of Transportation, transmitting sional Budget and Impoundment Control Act to the importation of prescription drugs, and the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness of 1974 to provide for the expedited consider- for other purposes; to the Committee on En- Directives; Learjet Model 55, 55B, and 55C ation of certain proposed rescissions of budg- ergy and Commerce.

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By Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania (for California, Mrs. MALONEY, Mr. MILLER of North Carolina, Ms. SHEA- himself, Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of MASSA, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. MCGOV- PORTER, Mr. HODES, Mr. ANDREWS, California, and Mr. CAPUANO): ERN, Mr. MEEKS of New York, Mrs. Mr. ROTHMAN of New Jersey, Mr. H.R. 1299. A bill to make technical correc- MILLER of Michigan, Ms. MOORE of PAYNE, Mr. HOLT, Mr. SIRES, Mr. tions to the laws affecting certain adminis- Wisconsin, Mr. PETERSON, Mr. POE of ENGEL, Mr. BISHOP of New York, Mr. trative authorities of the United States Cap- Texas, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. ROTHMAN of ACKERMAN, Mr. NADLER of New York, itol Police, and for other purposes; to the New Jersey, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Mr. Mr. WEINER, Mrs. MALONEY, Mr. RAN- Committee on House Administration. SESSIONS, Mr. SMITH of Nebraska, Mr. GEL, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. By Mr. BURTON of Indiana (for him- SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. STEARNS, HIGGINS, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. self, Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. RADANOVICH, Mr. TERRY, Mr. WALZ, Mr. WOLF, Mr. KUCINICH, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. RYAN of Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, Mr. POSEY, Ms. Ohio, Mr. WU, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. WESTMORELAND, Mr. FRANKS of Ari- ROS-LEHTINEN, and Mr. BACA): DEFAZIO, Mr. SESTAK, Mr. PATRICK J. zona, Ms. FOXX, Mr. MARCHANT, Mr. H.R. 1305. A bill to provide for the issuance MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Ms. SIMPSON, Mr. FORTENBERRY, Mr. BAR- of a forever stamp to honor the sacrifices of SCHWARTZ, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. TON of Texas, and Mr. SOUDER): the brave men and women of the armed LANGEVIN, Mr. COHEN, Mr. MORAN of H.R. 1300. A bill to amend the Revised forces who have been awarded the Purple Virginia, Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia, Statutes of the United States to prevent the Heart; to the Committee on Oversight and Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. INSLEE, Mr. use of the legal system in a manner that ex- Government Reform. MCDERMOTT, Mr. SMITH of Wash- torts money from State and local govern- By Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of Cali- ington, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. KIRK, Mr. ments, and the Federal Government, and in- fornia (for himself, Mr. FRANKS of Ar- SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. WOLF, Mr. hibits such governments’ constitutional ac- izona, and Mr. MCKEON): MCHUGH, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. HALL of tions under the first, tenth, and fourteenth H.R. 1306. A bill to amend title 28, United New York, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. COO- amendments; to the Committee on the Judi- States Code, to provide for reassignment of PER, Ms. TSONGAS, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. ciary. certain Federal cases upon request of a BRALEY of Iowa, Ms. PINGREE of By Mr. FORBES: party; to the Committee on the Judiciary. Maine, Mr. OLVER, and Mr. HIMES): H.R. 1301. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Ms. MATSUI: H.R. 1310. A bill to amend the Federal enue Code of 1986 to suspend the 180-day pe- H.R. 1307. A bill to authorize improvements Water Pollution Control Act to clarify that riod for completion of a like-kind exchange to flood damage reduction facilities adjacent fill material cannot be comprised of waste; in the case of the bankruptcy of a qualified to the American and Sacramento Rivers near to the Committee on Transportation and In- intermediary or an exchange accommodation Sacramento, California, and for other pur- frastructure. titleholder; to the Committee on Ways and poses; to the Committee on Transportation By Mr. PAUL: Means. and Infrastructure. H.R. 1311. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. HARE (for himself, Ms. CORRINE By Mr. MCMAHON (for himself, Mr. enue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross in- BROWN of Florida, Mr. BUYER, Mr. ROONEY, and Mr. PERRIELLO): come amounts distributed from tax-favored FILNER, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. HOLDEN, H.R. 1308. A bill to direct the Secretary of accounts during a period of unemployment; Mr. MICHAUD, Mr. MORAN of Kansas, Defense to adopt a program of professional to the Committee on Ways and Means. and Mr. RODRIGUEZ): and confidential screenings to detect mental By Mr. PAUL: H.R. 1302. A bill to amend title 38, United health injuries acquired during deployment H.R. 1312. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- States Code, to establish the position of Di- in support of a contingency operation and ul- enue Code of 1986 to exclude from Federal tax rector of Physician Assistant Services with- timately to reduce the incidence of suicide certain payments made in connection with in the office of the Under Secretary of Vet- among veterans; to the Committee on Armed reductions in force; to the Committee on erans Affairs for Health; to the Committee Services, and in addition to the Committee Ways and Means. on Veterans’ Affairs. on Veterans’ Affairs, for a period to be subse- By Mr. PETRI (for himself and Ms. By Mr. RUSH: quently determined by the Speaker, in each MATSUI): H.R. 1303. A bill to require the Attorney case for consideration of such provisions as H.R. 1313. A bill to amend the Elementary General, through the Office of Justice Pro- fall within the jurisdiction of the committee and Secondary Education Act of 1965 so that grams of the Department of Justice, to es- concerned. any local educational agency receiving fund- tablish a 5-year competitive grant program By Mrs. NAPOLITANO (for herself and ing under part A of title I of such Act or pub- to establish pilot programs to reduce the Mr. BILBRAY): lic charter school is eligible for a Troops to rate of occurrence of gun-related crimes in H.R. 1309. A bill to codify the definition of Teachers participant; to the Committee on high-crime communities; to the Committee terms used in subheading 1604.14 of the Har- Education and Labor, and in addition to the on the Judiciary. monized Tariff Schedule of the United Committee on Armed Services, for a period By Mr. KING of New York (for himself, States, relating to tuna products; to the to be subsequently determined by the Speak- Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Committee on Ways and Means. er, in each case for consideration of such pro- Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. COBLE, Mr. POE of By Mr. PALLONE (for himself, Mr. visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Texas, Mr. WOLF, Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. REICHERT, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. committee concerned. WESTMORELAND, Mrs. MYRICK, and GRIJALVA, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. GEORGE By Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- Mr. BROUN of Georgia): MILLER of California, Mrs. TAUSCHER, fornia (for herself, Mr. BISHOP of New H.R. 1304. A bill to create a Federal cause Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. STARK, Ms. York, Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, of action to determine whether defamation ESHOO, Mr. HONDA, Ms. ZOE LOFGREN Ms. MATSUI, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of exists under United States law in cases in of California, Mr. FARR, Mrs. CAPPS, California, Mrs. TAUSCHER, Mr. which defamation actions have been brought Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. HIGGINS, Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. in foreign courts against United States per- SCHIFF, Mr. WAXMAN, Ms. WATSON, SHERMAN, Ms. WOOLSEY, Ms. ROYBAL- sons on the basis of publications or speech in Ms. HARMAN, Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ ALLARD, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. BERMAN, the United States; to the Committee on the of California, Mr. FILNER, Mrs. DAVIS Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. FILNER, Judiciary. of California, Ms. LEE of California, Ms. GIFFORDS, and Mr. GRIJALVA): By Mr. KING of New York (for himself, Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. POLIS of Colorado, H.R. 1314. A bill to amend the Immigration Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. ARCURI, Mr. Ms. DELAURO, Mr. MURPHY of Con- and Nationality Act to provide for com- BISHOP of New York, Ms. BORDALLO, necticut, Ms. NORTON, Ms. CORRINE pensation to States incarcerating undocu- Mr. BOSWELL, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- BROWN of Florida, Mr. MEEK of Flor- mented aliens charged with a felony or two vania, Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, Mr. ida, Mr. WEXLER, Ms. WASSERMAN or more misdemeanors; to the Committee on BROUN of Georgia, Mr. BROWN of SCHULTZ, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, the Judiciary. South Carolina, Ms. GINNY BROWN- Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. ABER- By Mr. SCHIFF: WAITE of Florida, Mr. BURTON of Indi- CROMBIE, Ms. HIRONO, Mr. RUSH, Mr. H.R. 1315. A bill to prohibit the detention ana, Mr. CARNEY, Mr. CHILDERS, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Ms. of enemy combatants at Naval Station, COBLE, Mr. FILNER, Mr. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to provide for de FORTENBERRY, Ms. FOXX, Mr. Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. NEAL of Massa- novo combatant status reviews by military FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. GARRETT of New chusetts, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. FRANK judges, to repeal the Military Commissions Jersey, Mr. GORDON of Tennessee, Mr. of Massachusetts, Mr. TIERNEY, Mr. Act of 2006, and for other purposes; to the GRIFFITH, Mr. HALL of Texas, Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts, Mr. Committee on Armed Services, and in addi- HELLER, Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. HIN- CAPUANO, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. SAR- tion to the Committee on the Judiciary, for CHEY, Mr. HOLDEN, Mr. HOLT, Mr. BANES, Ms. EDWARDS of Maryland, a period to be subsequently determined by ISRAEL, Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois, Mr. Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. the Speaker, in each case for consideration JONES, Mr. KAGEN, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. KILDEE, Mr. LEVIN, Ms. KILPATRICK of of such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- KILDEE, Ms. KILPATRICK of Michigan, Michigan, Mr. CONYERS, Ms. MCCOL- tion of the committee concerned. Ms. KOSMAS, Mr. LATHAM, Mr. LEE of LUM, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. CLAY, Mr. By Mr. SENSENBRENNER: New York, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. CARNAHAN, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. PRICE H.R. 1316. A bill to provide for appropriate LOEBSACK, Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of of North Carolina, Mr. SHULER, Mr. notification of communities and homeowners

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of establishment of flood elevations for pur- ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- H.R. 274: Mr. WOLF. poses of the National Flood Insurance Pro- risdiction of the committee concerned. H.R. 293: Mr. PLATTS. gram; to the Committee on Financial Serv- By Mrs. MALONEY (for herself, Mr. H.R. 307: Mr. INSLEE and Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. ices. BILIRAKIS, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. GARRETT H.R. 333: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. By Mr. SHUSTER: of New Jersey, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. ELLISON, and Mr. HONDA. H.R. 1317. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- MCGOVERN, Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. SAR- H.R. 390: Mr. CARTER and Mr. GARY G. MIL- enue Code of 1986 to provide a tax credit to BANES, Ms. TSONGAS, and Mr. BROWN LER of California. individuals who pay their mortgages on of South Carolina): H.R. 444: Mr. ROGERS of Alabama, Mr. time; to the Committee on Ways and Means. H. Res. 209. A resolution commemorating CHANDLER, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Ms. BERKLEY, By Mr. VAN HOLLEN (for himself, Mr. the 80th anniversary of the Daughters of Pe- and Mr. GUTIERREZ. HOEKSTRA, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. KIRK, Mr. nelope, a preeminent international women’s H.R. 479: Ms. SLAUGHTER. BURTON of Indiana, Mr. SMITH of association and affiliate organization of the H.R. 577: Mrs. MALONEY, Mr. MACK, Mr. Washington, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. American Hellenic Educational Progressive BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. CARNAHAN, Ms. SUT- MORAN of Virginia, Mr. ACKERMAN, Association (AHEPA); to the Committee on TON, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. SERRANO, Ms. ZOE Mr. WELCH, and Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Oversight and Government Reform. LOFGREN of California, Mr. BOOZMAN, Mr. Texas): By Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin (for her- RYAN of Ohio, Mr. MCINTYRE, Ms. MATSUI, H.R. 1318. A bill to provide duty-free treat- self, Mr. BACA, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, Mr. SMITH of New Jer- ment for certain goods from designated Re- BISHOP of Georgia, Ms. BORDALLO, sey, Mrs. CAPPS, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. CHAN- construction Opportunity Zones in Afghani- Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida, Mr. DLER, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. GONZALEZ, stan and Pakistan, and for other purposes; to CARSON of Indiana, Mr. CASTLE, Ms. Mr. MICHAUD, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. BOSWELL, Ms. the Committee on Ways and Means. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. CHILDERS, WOOLSEY, and Mr. TERRY. By Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of Cali- Mrs. DAHLKEMPER, Mr. DAVIS of Illi- H.R. 579: Mr. TONKO. fornia (for himself, Mr. FRANKS of Ar- nois, Mr. FILNER, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. H.R. 618: Mr. TERRY. izona, Mr. BARTLETT, Mrs. GUTIERREZ, Mr. HARE, Mr. HINCHEY, H.R. 626: Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. ZOE LOFGREN BLACKBURN, Mr. PENCE, Mr. WEST- Mr. HONDA, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHN- of California, and Mr. ISRAEL. MORELAND, Mr. JORDAN of Ohio, Mr. SON of Texas, Mr. KILDEE, Ms. KIL- H.R. 627: Ms. HIRONO and Mr. COHEN. GINGREY of Georgia, Mr. PITTS, Mr. PATRICK of Michigan, Mr. KIND, Mr. H.R. 658: Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. MARCHANT, Mr. MICA, Mr. SMITH of KISSELL, Ms. LEE of California, Mr. H.R. 673: Mr. WEXLER and Ms. SCHWARTZ. Texas, Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. H.R. 678: Mrs. MALONEY and Mr. PASCRELL. H.R. 687: Mr. CHAFFETZ and Mr. PAUL. AKIN, Mr. ROGERS of Alabama, Mr. LUJA´ N, Mrs. MALONEY, Mr. MASSA, H.R. 716: Ms. SUTTON, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. BACHUS, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. BROUN of Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. MOORE of Kan- WEXLER, and Mr. ORTIZ. Georgia, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, Mr. sas, Ms. NORTON, Mr. OBEY, Mr. RAN- H.R. 722: Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. CHAFFETZ, Mr. SHUSTER, Mr. RADANO- GEL, Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN, Mr. H.R. 734: Ms. MATSUI, Mr. SIRES, Mr. VICH, Mr. HOEKSTRA, Mr. WITTMAN, SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. LATOURETTE, Mr. DRIEHAUS, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. Mr. FORBES, Mr. HARPER, Mr. SESTAK, Mr. SIRES, Mr. SPACE, Mr. NEUGEBAUER, and Mr. JONES. LUETKEMEYER, Mr. MORAN of Kansas, STARK, Mr. TOWNS, and Mr. WEXLER): H.R. 745: Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado, Mr. H. Res. 210. A resolution expressing the H.R. 756: Mr. GONZALEZ and Mr. GRIJALVA. SOUDER, Mr. MILLER of Florida, Mr. sense of the House of Representatives that H.R. 758: Mr. HOLT, Ms. HARMAN, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. NEUGEBAUER, Mr. CAN- providing breakfast in schools through the BOCCIERI, Mr. SPACE, Mr. LATOURETTE, and TOR, and Mr. BRADY of Texas): National School Breakfast Program has a Ms. KILROY. H.J. Res. 37. A joint resolution proposing positive impact on classroom performance; an amendment to the Constitution of the H.R. 759: Mr. ENGEL. to the Committee on Education and Labor. United States relating to marriage; to the H.R. 764: Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. JORDAN of Committee on the Judiciary. f Ohio, Mr. GALLEGLY, and Mr. PRICE of Geor- By Mr. BRIGHT: gia. H. Res. 206. A resolution honoring the ef- CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- H.R. 795: Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- forts and contributions of the Montgomery, ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- fornia. Alabama, Chapter of the National Associa- ITED TARIFF BENEFITS H.R. 808: Ms. PINGREE of Maine. tion of Women in Construction; to the Com- Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or H.R. 816: Mr. FARR, Mr. BOOZMAN, Mr. mittee on Oversight and Government Re- LOEBSACK, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. REYES, Mr. form. statements on congressional earmarks, GUTHRIE, Mr. ROSS, and Mr. TEAGUE. By Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Flor- limited tax benefits, or limited tariff H.R. 819: Mr. PETERSON. ida (for herself, Mr. MILLER of Flor- benefits were submitted as follows: H.R. 832: Mrs. CAPPS and Mr. NADLER of New York. ida, Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN, and Mr. OFFERED BY JOHN CONYERS, JR. MITCHELL): H.R. 847: Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. H. Res. 207. A resolution expressing the Amendment numbered 1 printed in House KUCINICH, Ms. DELAURO, Ms. LEE of Cali- sense of the House of Representatives that report 111–21, as modified, does not contain fornia, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, and Mr. all employers give veterans a holiday on Vet- any congressional earmarks, limited tax GRIJALVA. eran’s Day in honor of their service to our benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined H.R. 916: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY and Mr. GORDON country; to the Committee on Education and in clause 9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of Rule XXI. of Tennessee. Labor. f H.R. 930: Mr. POSEY. By Mr. KING of Iowa (for himself, Mr. H.R. 953: Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. PENCE, Mr. MCCOTTER, ADDITIONAL SPONSORS LOBIONDO, Mrs. SCHMIDT, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Mr. CARTER, Mr. WILSON of South Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors Texas, Mr. ALEXANDER, Mr. BARTON of Texas, Carolina, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. were added to public bills and resolu- Mr. TERRY, Mr. SOUDER, and Mr. JOHNSON of SAM JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. KLINE of Illinois. Minnesota, Mr. AKIN, Mr. MILLER of tions as follows: H.R. 958: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. GRIJALVA, Florida, Mr. ROGERS of Alabama, Mr. H.R. 20: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. MARKEY of Mr. OBERSTAR, and Mr. VAN HOLLEN. CONAWAY, Mr. WITTMAN, Ms. FALLIN, Massachusetts, and Ms. SUTTON. H.R. 964: Mr. CHAFFETZ. Mr. HUNTER, Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. H.R. 22: Mr. PAYNE, Mr. ANDREWS, Mr. H.R. 978: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. BURGESS, Mr. COLE, Mr. GOHMERT, TONKo, Mr. HIMES, Mr. ADLER of New Jersey, UPTON, Mr. WATT, Mr. CARNEY, and Mr. Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. PITTS, Mrs. Mr. GONZALEZ, and Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. WALZ. SCHMIDT, Mr. GINGREY of Georgia, H.R. 23: Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts, Mr. H.R. 983: Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Mr. BRADY of Texas, Mr. WESTMORE- MOORE of Kansas, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. LARSON H.R. 1016: Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. TERRY, Mr. LAND, Mrs. BACHMANN, Mr. BURTON of of Connecticut, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. WILSON of HOLT, Ms. KOSMAS, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. GOR- Indiana, Mr. RADANOVICH, Mr. LUCAS, Ohio, Mr. LOEBSACK, and Mrs. TAUSCHER. DON of Tennessee, Mr. CARNAHAN, Mr. Mr. LINDER, Mr. MCCAUL, Ms. FOXX, H.R. 49: Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado, Ms. SCHRADER, Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Ms. Mr. LATTA, Mr. BROUN of Georgia, FOXX, and Mr. NEUGEBAUER. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, and Mrs. LUMMIS): H.R. 147: Mr. TEAGUE. Mr. WELCH, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. WEXLER, and H. Res. 208. A resolution chronicling the ef- H.R. 151: Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mrs. DAHLKEMPER. forts of United States and Coalition forces to H.R. 154: Mr. MASSA and Mr. MEEKS of New H.R. 1017: Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. GORDON of bring freedom, safety, and security to Iraq York. Tennessee, Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of and recognizing the importance of the ‘‘surge H.R. 179: Mr. CONYERS, Mr. OLVER, and Ms. Florida, Mr. WALZ, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. strategy’’ in completing that mission; to the LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of California. BOSWELL, and Mr. LOEBSACK. Committee on Armed Services, and in addi- H.R. 219: Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 1021: Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. KLEIN of tion to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, H.R. 265: Mrs. CHRISTENSEN and Mr. Florida. for a period to be subsequently determined ELLISON. H.R. 1023: Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. CHAFFETZ, Mr. by the Speaker, in each case for consider- H.R. 270: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. ORTIZ. HOEKSTRA, Mr. MCCAUL, and Mr. GALLEGLY.

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H.R. 1026: Mr. LATTA, Mr. BOOZMAN, and H.R. 1210: Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. BACA, Mr. Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, and Mr. SCOTT of Mr. POSEY. DRIEHAUS, Mr. GERLACH, Mr. BARTLETT, Mr. Virginia. H.R. 1040: Mrs. BLACKBURN. HOLDEN, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. MACK, Mr. WAX- H. Con. Res. 18: Mr. PETERSON. H.R. 1042: Mr. WITTMAN. MAN, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. SMITH of New Jer- H. Con. Res. 29: Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. H.R. 1066: Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of sey, Mrs. MALONEY, and Mr. HINOJOSA. MCMAHON, Mr. LANCE, and Mr. KAGEN. Texas, Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, and Mr. H.R. 1240: Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. H. Con. Res. 34: Mr. GARRETT of New Jer- WEXLER. BOOZMAN, Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. BRALEY of sey. H.R. 1085: Mr. WITTMAN. Iowa, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. CHILDERS, Mr. H. Con. Res. 52: Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of H.R. 1090: Mr. BISHOP of New York. CLEAVER, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mrs. DAVIS of California. H.R. 1121: Mr. ETHERIDGE and Mr. California, Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. BUTTERFIELD. H. Con. Res. 55: Mr. PITTS, Ms. EDDIE BER- ELLISON, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. H.R. 1136: Ms. KAPTUR. NICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. CAO, HINOJOSA, Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Mrs. H.R. 1147: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts, Mr. Mr. PRICE of Georgia, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. PE- MALONEY, Mr. MICHAUD, Mr. MITCHELL, Mr. LATHAM, Mr. CARDOZA, Mr. MURTHA, Mr. TERSON, and Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. MORAN of Kansas, Ms. NORTON, Mr. LOEBSACK, and Mr. TONKO. H. Con. Res. 59: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. PIERLUISI, Mr. ROSS, Mr. SARBANES, Mr. H.R. 1176: Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Ms. H. Con. Res. 60: Mr. LANCE, Mr. BURTON of SCHRADER, Mr. SNYDER, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. GRANGER, Mr. DUNCAN, and Mr. WOLF. Indiana, and Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. THOMPSON of California, Mr. UPTON, Mr. H.R. 1180: Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. PENCE, Mr. H. Res. 86: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. WEXLER, Mr. WU, Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. POSEY, H. Res. 89: Mr. PETERSON. RAHALL, Mr. TERRY, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. Mrs. BACHMANN, Ms. FALLIN, Mr. WAMP, Mr. H. Res. 109: Mr. BACA, and Mr. MCHUGH. BROWN of South Carolina, and Mr. BISHOP of SPRATT, Mr. HARE, and Mr. MOORE of Kansas. H. Res. 130: Mr. ROTHMAN of New Jersey Utah. H.R. 1246: Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. GRIJALVA, and Mr. DOGGETT. H.R. 1189: Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. MORAN of Vir- Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, Ms. WOOLSEY, and Ms. H. Res. 155: Ms. RICHARDSON. ginia, Mr. TAYLOR, Mr. LANCE, Mr. KING of CASTOR of Florida. H. Res. 156: Mr. LAMBORN and Ms. FALLIN. New York, Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. H.R. 1254: Mr. LANCE. H. Res. 160: Ms. MCCOLLUM and Mr. HALL of New York, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, H.R. 1263: Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. MORAN of Vir- HINOJOSA. Mr. MCDERMOTT, and Mr. MCHUGH. ginia, and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. H.R. 1197: Mr. BISHOP of New York. H.R. 1270: Mr. HONDA and Mr. SPACE. H. Res. 174: Mr. GERLACH. H.R. 1199: Mr. MARCHANT. H. Con. Res. 14: Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, H. Res. 182: Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- H.R. 1201: Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. BRADY of Penn- fornia, Mr. HALL of New York, Mr. PAYNE, H.R. 1204: Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. DAVIS of Ken- sylvania, Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, and Mr. WEXLER. tucky, and Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. fornia, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. HINCHEY, H. Res. 201: Mrs. LOWEY and Mr. MASSA.

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Vol. 155 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4, 2009 No. 38 Senate The Senate met at 9:30 a.m. and was appoint the Honorable TOM UDALL, a Senator to be here to speak on one of the pend- called to order by the Honorable TOM from the State of New Mexico, to perform ing amendments. the duties of the Chair. UDALL, a Senator from the State of f New Mexico. ROBERT C. BYRD, President pro tempore. RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY PRAYER Mr. UDALL of New Mexico thereupon LEADER The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- assumed the chair as Acting President The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- fered the following prayer: pro tempore. pore. The Republican leader is recog- Let us pray. f nized. Lord, we continue to depend on You f to guide our lawmakers on right paths. RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY Only You know what the future holds LEADER OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS and the resources we will need to meet The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, yes- our many challenges. Strengthen our pore. The majority leader is recog- terday we had votes on a handful of Senators so that in the face of great nized. amendments which were aimed at re- challenges, they will be steadfast, f ducing the overall size of the Omnibus abounding in works that honor You. appropriations bill. Many of us who are Give them such confidence in Your ORDER OF PROCEDURE concerned about the spending binge we providence that no problem will seem Mr. REID. Mr. President, following have been on thought it would be re- insoluble. In all their labors, may their the remarks of the leaders, I ask unani- sponsible to bring it back in line with primary motive be to bring glory to mous consent that the Senator from the appropriations bills we passed last Your Name. May their thoughts, words, Iowa, Mr. GRASSLEY, be recognized for year. That was obviously before the and deeds be acceptable to You, for whatever time he may consume and, economic crisis. You are their rock and redeemer. Make following that, we will move to H.R. As the junior Senator from Indiana them totally committed to You and 1105. put it this morning in an insightful op- unreservedly dedicated to Your love. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ed piece in the Wall Street Journal, We pray in Your mighty Name. pore. Without objection, it is so or- this bill was drafted last year. Amen. dered. Since then, economic and fiscal cir- f cumstances have changed dramatically, f PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE which is why— SCHEDULE As he put it— The Honorable TOM UDALL led the Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: Mr. REID. Mr. President, it is my un- the Senate should go back to the drawing board. The economic downturn requires new I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the derstanding there are seven amend- policies, not more of the same. United States of America and to the Repub- ments pending. We will dispose of those lic for which it stands, one Nation under as quickly as we can. Votes on those That is Senator EVAN BAYH of Indi- God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for will not be able to start until after 2 ana. all. o’clock today because of Gordon Brown I ask unanimous consent to have the f and other things going on here, but we article, in which Senator BAYH calls on his colleagues to vote against the om- APPOINTMENT OF ACTING will move through those as rapidly as nibus or for the President to veto it, PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE we can, making sure people have an opportunity to speak for or in opposition. printed in the RECORD. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The I have spoken to the Republican staff, There being no objection, the mate- clerk will please read a communication and they have other amendments they rial was ordered to be printed in the to the Senate from the President pro wish to offer. We are moving along fair- RECORD, as follows: tempore (Mr. BYRD). ly well on this bill. We will recess at [From the Wall Street Journal, Mar. 3, 2009] The assistant legislative clerk read 10:40 this morning until noon for the DEFICITS AND FISCAL CREDIBILITY the following letter: joint meeting of Congress with British A DEMOCRATIC SENATOR SAYS NO TO A HUGE U.S. SENATE, Prime Minister Gordon Brown. FEDERAL SPENDING BILL PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, We have a number of speakers lined Washington, DC, March 4, 2009. (By Evan Bayh) To the Senate: up at 12 noon and thereafter to speak This week, the United States Senate will Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, on the pending amendments. At 10 this vote on a spending package to fund the fed- of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby morning, Senator MIKULSKI is expected eral government for the remainder of this

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor.

S2723

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.000 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2724 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 fiscal year. The Omnibus Appropriations Act Now is the time to win back the confidence be the ones left to pay off the Federal of 2009 is a sprawling, $410 billion compila- and trust of the American people. Congress Government credit card that Demo- tion of nine spending measures that lacks should vote ‘‘no’’ on this omnibus and show crats in Congress are busy maxing out. the slightest hint of austerity from the fed- working families across the country that we eral government or the recipients of its lar- are as committed to living within our means f gess. as they are. HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES The Senate should reject this bill. If we do Mr. MCCONNELL. Today, Repub- SERGEANT DANIEL W. WALLACE not, President Barack Obama should veto it. licans are going to continue bringing The omnibus increases discretionary Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I up our amendments, amendments that spending by 8% over last fiscal year’s levels, rise because our country has lost a true we think are better and more respon- dwarfing the rate of inflation across a broad patriot. SGT Daniel W. Wallace of Dry sible ways to use the taxpayers’ money swath of issues including agriculture, finan- Ridge, KY, was tragically killed by cial services, foreign relations, energy and today. water programs, and legislative branch oper- Unfortunately, it has become in- enemy fire while serving his country in ations. Such increases might be appropriate creasingly clear that most of our Dem- Afghanistan on October 31, 2008. He was for a nation flush with cash or unconcerned ocrat colleagues here in Congress—Sen- 27 years old. with fiscal prudence, but America is neither. ator BAYH notwithstanding—are per- A member of the Kentucky Army Na- Drafted last year, the bill did not pass due fectly comfortable with the breath- tional Guard since 2006, Sergeant Wal- to Congress’s long-standing budgetary dys- lace was on his first deployment. For function and the frustrating delays it yields taking rate of spending we have been on since the beginning of the year. his valor in uniform, he received sev- in our appropriations work. Since then, eco- eral medals, awards and decorations, nomic and fiscal circumstances have They want it to continue, without re- changed dramatically, which is why the Sen- straint and without any end in sight. including the Bronze Star Medal and ate should go back to the drawing board. The Amazingly, in the midst of an eco- the Purple Heart. economic downturn requires new policies, nomic crisis, congressional Democrats ‘‘Sergeant Daniel Wallace was a true not more of the same. want to increase the annual spending patriot,’’ says Kentucky National Our nation’s current fiscal imbalance is included in this omnibus by 8 percent, Guard Adjutant GEN Edward W. unprecedented, unsustainable and, if which, compared to last year, is twice Tonini. He ‘‘stood up and answered the unaddressed, a major threat to our currency the rate of inflation. call to serve his Nation in a time of and our economic vitality. The national debt need.’’ now exceeds $10 trillion. This is almost dou- At a time when Americans are learn- ble what it was just eight years ago, and the ing to cut back, Democrats in Congress Sergeant’s Wallace’s mother, Karen debt is growing at a rate of about $1 million are suggesting we double up. As Sen- Wallace, says the same thing, but in a a minute. ator BAYH put it in the same op-ed: way only a mother could. Washington borrows from foreign creditors The bloated omnibus requires sacrifice ‘‘Danny’s my fallen hero,’’ she says. to fund its profligacy. The amount of U.S. from no one, least of all the government. It Daniel’s family lived in the town of debt held by countries such as China and only exacerbates the problem and hastens Latonia in the northern Kentucky sub- Japan is at a historic high, with foreign in- the day of reckoning. Voters rightly de- urbs of Cincinnati, when he was young. vestors holding half of America’s publicly manded change in November’s election, but When he was about 9 years old, they held debt. This dependence raises the specter this approach to spending represents busi- moved to Dry Ridge in Grant County. that other nations will be able to influence ness as usual in Washington, not the voters’ our policies in ways antithetical to Amer- mandate. They moved because Karen and Dan- iel’s father, Kenneth, wanted to trade ican interests. The more of our debt that for- Nobody wants an open-ended reces- in life in the city for the country. But eign governments control, the more leverage sion. But so far the only solution to the they have on issues like trade, currency and economic crisis that Democrats in Con- Daniel didn’t take it so well. national security. Massive debts owed to for- ‘‘He didn’t like the move . . . because gress are offering is open-ended spend- eign creditors weaken our global influence, of his friends being in Latonia,’’ Karen ing without any end in sight. And let’s and threaten high inflation and steep tax in- remembers. ‘‘He was always bored in creases for our children and grandchildren. be clear about something: we cannot The solution going forward is to stop end a recession by digging the country the country, complaining about how wasteful spending before it starts. Families into deeper and deeper debt any more there was nothing to do.’’ and businesses are tightening their belts to than one can pay off a credit card by It would come as no surprise, how- make ends meet—and Washington should using it more often. And we can’t tax ever, if I told you that Daniel, like any too. young boy, found plenty of things to The omnibus debate is not merely a battle our way out of a recession. February was an expensive month for do. He liked to fish, camp and watch over last year’s unfinished business, but the and play sports like baseball, basket- first indication of how we will shape our fis- American taxpayers. In the month of cal future. Spending should be held in check February, Congress spent more money ball and football. And with three broth- before taxes are raised, even on the wealthy. than we did in 7 years on the war in ers and a sister, there were plenty of Most people are willing to do their duty by Iraq, the war in Afghanistan and Hurri- people to do things with. paying taxes, but they want to know that cane Katrina relief combined. ‘‘He loved camping,’’ says Karen. their money is going toward important pri- All of this spending is reason to care- ‘‘We’d get so tickled because he and orities and won’t be wasted. fully consider and pare back this mas- [his brother] Alex would bet on who Last week I was pleased to attend the sive spending bill, particularly in these could make the first fire, [or] the big- president’s White House Fiscal Responsi- gest fire.’’ bility Summit. It’s about time we had a lead- areas which contain funding for 122 er committed to addressing the deficit, and programs already funded in the stim- Karen did set some limits for her son, Mr. Obama deserves great credit for doing so. ulus bill. however. But what ultimately matters are not meet- Remarkably, even Senator ‘‘He always wanted to go hunting but ings or words, but actions. Those who vote HUTCHISON’s amendment, which sought we never did that,’’ she says. And ‘‘he for the omnibus this week—after standing to find $12 billion, or just 1 percent, in got mad at me for not letting him play with the president and pledging to slice our duplicative spending from two bills to- football because he was so skinny.’’ deficit in half last week—jeopardize their taling $1.2 trillion, was struck down. Daniel started attending Crittenden- credibility. Mt. Zion Elementary School, and when As Indiana’s governor, I balanced eight I hope our friends across the aisle budgets, never raised taxes, and left the larg- will join Republican efforts to ensure he was in third grade, Karen started est surplus in state history. It wasn’t always every taxpayer dollar is spent with working there. ‘‘I was able to watch easy. Cuts had to be made and some initia- care, and support amendments to pro- him as he was adjusting to a new tives deferred. Occasionally I had to say tect taxpayer dollars. school,’’ she recalls. ‘‘The teachers ‘‘no.’’ This current spending bill is only one liked him. . . . He was very computer But the bloated omnibus requires sacrifice step in the spending process. It doesn’t knowledgeable [and] . . . the teachers from no one, least of all the government. It include the President’s budget, the would have him fix computers.’’ only exacerbates the problem and hastens Daniel’s father, Kenneth, recalls how the day of reckoning. Voters rightly de- housing proposal, or untold trillions to manded change in November’s election, but stabilize financial markets and other his son was quick to look out for oth- this approach to spending represents busi- programs ers. ness as usual in Washington, not the voters’ Our children and grandchildren can’t ‘‘He always felt he had to protect the mandate. afford this level of spending. They will other kids,’’ Kenneth says. ‘‘He wanted

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.001 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2725 to know who did it if something hap- with my colleagues just some of Dan- The IRS implemented that program pened.’’ Karen recalls a few times when iel’s story. We are thinking of his son, only 2 years ago. Daniel came to the defense of his Cody George Mardis; his daughter, Abi- This program, which has never been brother Alex when he was teased by gail Rose Wallace; his parents, Kenneth fully operational in its brief 2-year pe- other boys. and Karen; his brother Charles, riod, allows the Internal Revenue Serv- Like the rest of his family, Daniel Charles’s wife Robin and their children; ice to use private collection agencies was also very committed to his church. his brother Brian, Brian’s wife Jennifer to collect money owed to the Govern- One way they all contributed together and their children; his brother Alex; ment. The program has many critics, was as a gospel band, the Wallace Fam- his sister Kim; his grandfather, Arvis and once again they are seeking to de- ily Band. Mom and dad sang. Their Sinclair; and many other beloved stroy the program before we have a sons Charles and Brian played the gui- friends and family members. chance to gauge how effective the pro- tar, Alex played the drums, and Daniel Daniel once asked his mother to gram is. played bass guitar. The whole family write more letters—not to him, but to Before I discuss the merits of the pro- got into the act. other soldiers who didn’t have moms gram, I wish to note that an appropria- After high school, Daniel went on to like her writing to their sons and tions bill is not the proper vehicle to National College in Florence, where he daughters in a war zone. After Daniel’s nullify tax policy. The private debt col- took business classes. He was studying death, Karen heard from her son’s fel- lection program was created in a tax to be an accountant. ‘‘Danny liked low soldiers about how Daniel carried bill within the jurisdiction of our Fi- numbers and he enjoyed math,’’ says himself, even in the face of great dan- nance Committee, and further legisla- Karen. ger. tion affecting the program should be In high school and college he had a ‘‘The letters I’ve received from the done through the committee where the couple of jobs, working at a car dealer- guys shows me Danny was true to God. expertise is, the Finance Committee. ship and as an apprentice with a steel He had a true mission over there,’’ Whether you would agree with the pro- manufacturer. But just as his family Karen says. He’d always say, ‘Mom, gram, I think everyone could agree on raised him to serve others through his don’t worry—God’s watching over the importance of the committee work at church, Daniel felt moved to me.’ ’’ structure that we use in the Senate. In serve his country through military Nothing could ever take away the other words, a committee of jurisdic- service. pain of this family’s loss. But I hope tion where the expertise is ought to ‘‘He liked the Army one hundred per- Daniel’s loved ones know there is one work to change a program if it needs to cent,’’ his mother Karen says. ‘‘You other thing they should never worry be changed or if it needs to be done couldn’t have budged him out of that. about: that our Nation could ever for- away with, as basically the appropria- . . . I’ve never seen him happier in all get Daniel’s great sacrifice. tions bill would do. I would assume my life than after he joined the Na- And this U.S. Senate will forever members of the Appropriations Com- tional Guard.’’ honor Sergeant Daniel W. Wallace for mittee would not want—would not In the Guard, Daniel trained to be a his service to country. want—those of us on the Finance Com- combat engineer. His dad recalls that I yield the floor. mittee making decisions against the after his training, he was named the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- expertise of the Appropriations Com- 218th Regiment Honor Graduate. Part pore. Under the previous order, the mittee. of his training included learning how Senator from Iowa is recognized. The IRS private debt collection pro- to deactivate explosive devices—his f gram facilitates the collection of tax mother Karen recalls that ‘‘on his eval- debts the IRS would not otherwise pur- PRIVATE DEBT COLLECTION uation, it said Danny likes to blow up sue. These liabilities amount to bil- AMENDMENT things.’’ lions of dollars a year. Daniel also inspired his brother Alex Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I rise A Government Accountability Office to join the National Guard, and Alex for the purpose of discussing an amend- report issued in June of 2008 reported became a medic. ment that was filed yesterday that I the unpaid tax debt as of fiscal year ‘‘I’m proud of my brother,’’ Alex hope I get an opportunity to offer. I am 2007 to be about $290 billion, of which says. ‘‘I’m going to keep carrying on. I going to touch on these points, but I almost $185 billion was classified as know he wants me to serve my full thought I would highlight a couple nonpotentially collectible inventory time, which is what I’m going to do.’’ points about this amendment. and $25.5 billion was deemed poten- Daniel joined the 201st Engineer Bat- First of all, there is bipartisan agree- tially collectible but not in active col- talion of the Kentucky Army National ment in this body there is a $290 billion lection status. The private debt collec- Guard, based out of Cynthiana, and was tax gap—‘‘tax gap’’ meaning taxes that tion agencies are only permitted to deployed to Afghanistan. He wrote his are owed but not collected. There is pursue debts taxpayers have conceded mother letters telling of his experi- also an understanding that is not writ- they owe. ences, especially of his work to ren- ten that the IRS is not going to go Opposition to this program is sur- ovate the chapel for the soldiers on after taxes unpaid, through their own prising, since the Internal Revenue base. employees, of under $25,000 a year. Service program is intended to run like ‘‘Danny made a library [in the chap- There is a feeling by some people in the similar programs at other agencies. In el],’’ Karen recalls. ‘‘We’d send him IRS there ought to be more employees other words, the Department of Edu- books for the library and Danny read hired to go after the tax gap, but even cation uses private collection agencies all of them. They were redoing the if those additional employees are hired, to pursue delinquent student loans. chapel outside and inside . . . he was they still will not go after those under The Treasury Department, which always working in the chapel.’’ $25,000. houses the Internal Revenue Service, Daniel’s family shipped him his bass Now, we have a program in place I also houses the Financial Management guitar, and he formed a band with his wish to defend in my remarks. That Service, and, ironically, the Treasury fellow soldiers in Afghanistan. Karen program in place is the IRS con- Department uses private debt collec- recalls how, before his posting in Af- tracting with private collection agen- tion agencies to collect small business ghanistan, Daniel had played with the cies to go after the money that is owed loans. Wallace Family Band one last time. for those under $25,000; and to make the So if it is OK for one branch of the ‘‘Danny came in for 15 days of R&R, point, that program is working. But Treasury Department to do that, why [and] we got one booking in the the bill before us, the Omnibus appro- isn’t it OK for the Internal Revenue church,’’ she says. ‘‘Everybody was priations bill, contains a provision that Service to go after taxes owed but not there . . . daughter-in-law, the boys, would essentially kill the IRS private paid? The only reason I can think of everybody. God has blessed us with our debt collection program, which the that private debt collection is so con- family. I’ve always told people that.’’ Senate, working through the Senate troversial at the Internal Revenue The members of Daniel’s loving fam- Finance Committee I serve on, only au- Service is simply the opposition to the ily are in our prayers today as I share thorized a short period of 4 years ago. program from the National Treasury

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.004 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2726 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 Employees Union. The National Treas- further quantify this in terms of resource who are represented by the union. What is ury Employees Union is comprised pri- and revenue trade-offs, as you requested, his- being done in the renegotiation process to marily of Internal Revenue Service em- torically a full-time SB/SE revenue agent bring the IRS–NTEU agreement at least auditing individual tax returns brings in more in line with practices elsewhere in the ployees, and according to that union’s nearly $700,000 annually. government? Web site, is the largest Federal sector While progress has been made, the IRS rec- Thank you for your time and attention to union in the entire country. ognizes that more needs to be done. The re- this matter. I would appreciate your re- The other Government agencies that cent IRS–NTEU mid-term negotiations in sponse by May 25, 2007. use private debt collectors do not have 2006 produced a broad range of means for Cordially yours, as powerful a union fighting for more achieving operational efficiencies. These in- CHARLES E. GRASSLEY, Government jobs. Yet this program clude simple time-efficiencies such as in- Ranking Member. creasing the number of meetings conducted Mr. GRASSLEY. For me, this proves does not threaten the jobs of revenue by phone and requiring stewards within the agents already working at the IRS. The the IRS would be better off hiring more commuting area to attend in-person meet- examination agencies than debt collec- tax debts the private collection agen- ings. Other measures include establishing an cies are targeting are debts the Inter- annual cap of 850 hours of representational tors. In addition to the National Treas- nal Revenue Service is not even pur- time for the vast majority of stewards, re- ury Employees Union’s failure to dis- suing, and likely would not pursue ducing the grievance procedure for perform- cuss the success of private debt collec- even if additional revenue agents were ance appraisals and mass grievances from a tion programs at other Federal agen- hired. multi-step to a one-step process, and stream- cies—I mentioned them, Education and lining NTEU’s participation on various com- one other branch of the Treasury De- In May 2007, Acting Commissioner mittees. Kevin Brown—now this is a Commis- partment—the National Treasury Em- Reducing the amount of official time con- ployees Union also conveniently fails sioner of the Internal Revenue Serv- tinues to be a priority and we will seek sig- to mention that the private collection ice—when testifying before a sub- nificant additional improvements in our up- agencies hired by the IRS have consist- committee of the House Ways and coming contract negotiations. Please con- ently scored customer satisfaction rat- Means Committee, confirmed that the tact me should you require additional infor- ings above 95 percent, while the IRS Internal Revenue Service would not mation or a member of your staff may call Robert Buggs, Chief Human Capital Officer. collection employees appear to be scor- otherwise pursue these debts, even if at 202–622–7676, ing at less than 65 percent. the IRS were given additional re- Sincerely, The National Treasury Employees sources. So the bottom line is this: MARK W. EVERSON. Union also fails to mention the amount There are no IRS jobs on the line. of employee time devoted to union ac- U.S. SENATE, Rather, the National Treasury Employ- tivities is proportionately higher at ees Union believes the IRS should be COMMITTEE ON FINANCE, Washington, DC, May 15, 2007. the Internal Revenue Service than it is hiring more union employees to do col- in comparison to other Federal Depart- lections work. Hon. HENRY PAULSON, Secretary, ments and agencies. Commissioner In contrast, I believe if the IRS is Department of Treasury, Everson testified to this at the Senate going to hire more workers, it should Washington, DC. Finance Committee tax gap hearing be agents to do more exams—work that DEAR MR. SECRETARY: I am writing to you held on April 18, 2007. Just think, then, private contractors cannot do. Former regarding an ongoing concern that I have of the additional revenue IRS could be IRS Commissioner Mark Everson stat- with respect to the amount of official Inter- nal Revenue Service (IRS) time used by rep- collecting if union employees were ac- ed in a letter to me on April 11, 2007, tually doing the job they were paid to that a full-time revenue agent auditing resentatives of the National Treasury Em- ployees Union (NTEU). As you are aware, I do instead of spending taxpayers’ dol- individual tax returns historically have been a strong advocate of using IRS re- lars to lobby Congress to do away with brings in nearly $700,000 annually. sources in the most productive manner pos- a program that is collecting money Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- sible. owed under $25,000 a year that would sent that Commissioner Everson’s let- Based on information former Commis- not otherwise be collected. Of course, ter be printed in the RECORD, as well as sioner Everson provided to me in a letter they do not like that program. a followup letter I wrote to Treasury dated April 11, 2007, total NTEU time spent Since the omnibus provision prohib- on union related activities for 2006 equated Secretary Paulson on this issue. iting the IRS from using 2009 appro- There being no objection, the mate- to 302 full time equivalents (FTEs). In terms of resource and revenue trade-offs, the letter priations to fund the program office rial was ordered to be printed in the referenced a historical figure of a full-time may actually kill the program, I have RECORD, as follows: SR/SE revenue agent auditing individual tax this amendment before the Senate. I DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, returns bringing in nearly $700,000 annually. mean, at least it is filed. It is not be- INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, Thus, according to IRS figures, total NTEU fore us yet. I would not support a gov- Washington, DC, April 11, 2007. time for 2006 represents approximately ernment program that is unsuccessful, Hon. CHARLES E. GRASSLEY, $211,400,000 additional direct revenue that and this private debt collection pro- Ranking Member, Committee on Finance, could have potentially been brought into the gram is no different. However, we do U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. United States Treasury. This figure does not DEAR SENATOR GRASSLEY: This letter fol- account for any increase in revenue that not have enough information to know lows-up on a matter that has been an ongo- would be gained indirectly through the in- whether this program is effective, and, ing concern to both the Internal Revenue creased audit activity. At a time when this given the success of such programs at Service (IRS) and you for several years now, Committee is increasingly looking at new other agencies, I believe it can be suc- and that you raised in a meeting with IRS methods of closing the tax gap, it is impera- cessful at the Internal Revenue Serv- senior executives on January 30, 2007. Spe- tive that we first ensure that the IRS is ef- ice. It surely is successful at the Edu- cifically, you asked for information on the fectively using its existing resources. cation Department. use of official time by representatives of the At the Senate Finance Committee’s tax Last week, I, along with Senator National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU). gap hearing on April 18, 2007, former Com- HARKIN, my colleague from Iowa, and Reducing the use of official time by NTEU missioner Everson stated that the IRS was representatives has been a significant point in the process of trying to renegotiate the Mr. SCHUMER, the senior Senator from of negotiations between the IRS and NTEU NTEU agreement, which would include a re- New York—the three of us—sent a let- for several years. Over time, the IRS has es- negotiation of union activity time, Former ter to Treasury Secretary Geithner and tablished greater controls over time granted Commissioner Everson also stated that the IRS Commissioner Shulman asking for to union officials to perform representa- amount of time devoted to union activities is more information so we can actually tional duties. proportionately higher at the IRS than it is make an informed decision on the ef- As illustrated by the enclosed chart, from in comparison to other departments and fectiveness of the private debt collec- 2002 through 2006, total annual NTEU time agencies within the government. Without tion program. spent on union related activities has de- getting into whether taxpayers should even The letter asks for, among other creased approximately 14 percent, from be funding union activity, please provide me 729,988 hours to 630,539 hours. Per your re- with an analysis of IRS union activity time things, additional information to meas- quest at the January 30, 2007, meeting to versus union time for other governmental ure the cost-effectiveness of the pro- quantify the data in terms of full time departments and agencies. Please also quan- gram, information to gauge the results equivalents (FTEs), this represents a reduc- tify this analysis in terms of FTEs and the of the collection agencies, and more in- tion from approximately 350 to 302 FTEs. To number of agency or department employees formation on the use of collection

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However, There being no objection, the mate- $184.8 billion was classified as non-poten- the exclusion list, which was not determined rial was ordered to be printed in the tially collectible inventory and $25.5 billion by statute but by the IRS, appears fairly ex- RECORD, as follows: was deemed potentially collectible, but not tensive. In addition, as noted above, the GAO’s June 2008 report indicates that, as of U.S. SENATE, in active collection status. This would seem to be further justification for a viable PDC fiscal year 2007, there was at least $25.5 of po- Washington, DC, February 26, 2009. tentially collectible inventory that IRS was Hon. TIMOTHY F. GEITHNER, program. In its December 2008 report, Tax Adminis- not actively pursuing. We would like to Secretary of the Treasury, know how each of the exclusion criteria was Washington, DC. tration: IRS’s 2008 Filing Season Generally Successful Despite Challenges, Although IRS determined. Hon. DOUGLAS H. SHULMAN, Could Expand Enforcement During Returns Tables 5, 6 and 7 of the GAO’s June 2008 Commissioner of Internal Revenue, provide a breakdown of the total delinquent Washington, DC. Processing, the GAO notes that, because collections staff was reassigned to answer tele- debt for fiscal years 2002 through 2007. Please DEAR SECRETARY GEITHNER AND COMMIS- update these tables to add numbers for fiscal phone calls regarding stimulus payments, SIONER SHULMAN: We are writing regarding year 2008 and provide a breakdown of this the IRS reported $655 million in forgone rev- the private debt collection program (PDC) amount by the exclusion criteria. We would enue through August 2008 alone, which that is being implemented by the Internal also like to know why all potentially collect- means that the number for the whole cal- Revenue Service (IRS) and has been in place ible inventory is not in active collection sta- since 2006. We are aware that many critics endar year will likely be greater. If the IRS tus and cannot be assigned to PCAs. believe that the program does not operate ef- viewed the PDC program as part of its larger We would also like to know whether Treas- fectively, and they lead an annual effort to collection program, rather than a stand- ury or any other agency has studied the cost strip the IRS of all authority to implement alone program, PCAs may have been able to effectiveness of the use of PCAs by Treasury it. But we do not believe that the necessary complete the work of the collections staff or other federal agencies. If such studies are data has been collected and disseminated that had been temporarily reassigned. available, we would like to see them. It is important for critics of the program that would allow an informed decision to be Finally, you may be aware that there are to recognize that the IRS’s PDC program is made about the program’s long-term effec- almost 200 jobs in both Iowa and New York designed to go after tax debts that have been tiveness. that will be lost if the IRS PDC program is conceded by taxpayers, but not paid. What’s Make no mistake: If the program is genu- terminated prematurely. Given the current more, even if the IRS enforcement budget inely unsuccessful, we would be among the economic crisis, such job losses should not be were significantly increased, the accounts first to concur that it should be terminated. forced to occur before a full accounting of turned over to PDC are those that would still However, we remain very concerned that IRS the program’s success is made available and/ likely be ignored by IRS collection agents. or the program is allowed to operate as origi- will terminate the PDC program before a In his May 2007 testimony before the Com- nally intended. The recently enacted Eco- complete and thorough accounting of the mittee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee nomic Recovery Act, which will further program is conducted. For example, while on Oversight, Acting Commissioner Kevin strain IRS resources, is an additional reason some are critical of the effectiveness and ef- Brown, confirmed that IRS would not other- why the PCAs should be allowed to operate ficiency of the PDC program, we have yet to wise pursue these debts even if IRS were until the success or failure of the program see solid, reliable numbers. Criticism of the given additional resources. can be definitively determined. program’s return on investment do not ac- We remain cautiously optimistic that a If you have any questions regarding the count for its start-up or investment costs, PDC program could be successful in helping above, please do not hesitate to contact our and ignore the fact that the program has not to close the tax gap, but only if it is allowed staff. We also ask that you brief our staff on been fully operational for any of its two to operate at full capacity. Only after that the forthcoming study before the study is fi- years. point could a determination be made about nalized and made public. We appreciate that the IRS has decided to whether the program is meeting its objec- Sincerely, use an independent third party to study the tives. We are hopeful that the report being CHUCK GRASSLEY, effectiveness of the program, and its report prepared will provide answers to the fol- U.S. Senator. may be issued as early as next week. But it lowing questions. If not, we hope that you CHARLES E. SCHUMER, is not clear that the new study will discuss will take the time to let us know the fol- U.S. Senator. ways to increase the efficiency and effective- lowing key information before the IRS TOM HARKIN, ness of the PDC program or explain why makes any final decision about the PDC pro- U.S. Senator. similar programs at other federal agencies gram: REPORTS & TESTIMONIES RELATING TO appear to be successful. For example, the De- The primary argument for terminating the IRS COLLECTION ACTIVITIES partment of Education uses PCAs to collect IRS PDC program is that it is not cost effec- Ways & Means Committee, May 2007 Hear- student loan debt, and the Department of tive. In order to better understand the pro- ing, http://waysandmeans.house.gov/hear- Treasury Financial Management Service gram’s revenues and costs, we would like a ings.asp?formmode=detail&hearing=562. uses them to collect small business loans, monthly accounting of all funds expended on GAO farm loans, and other similar debt owed to the program since its inception, including a the federal government, and these programs May 1993, GAO/GGD–93–97, New Delinquent breakdown of all costs for IRS personnel in- Tax Collection Method for IRS, http:// appear to work well with little controversy. volved in administering the program (salary Given the amount of uncollected tax debt, archive.gao.gov/t2pbat5/149340.pdf. levels, positions descriptions, etc.), as well April 1996, GAO/TT-GGD–96–1, W&M Over- a program that was allowed to operate at as costs associated with technology and sight Testimony Tax Administration: IRS full capacity would have the potential to be travel. Tax Debt Collection Practices, http:// successful, yet the current program has only We would also like to know the number of www.gao.gov/archive/1996/gg96112t.pdf. operated in fits and starts. In fact, during cases placed with the private agencies since May 2004, GAO–04–492, IRS Is Addressing the past fifteen years, the Government Ac- the program began, including the number of Critical Factors for Success for Contracting countability Office (GAO) and the Treasury cases for which the amount was collected in Out but Will Need to Study Best Use of Re- Inspector General for Tax Administration full, the number of resulting installment sources. (TIGTA) have issued numerous reports disagreements, and the number of cases recalled September 2006, GAO–06–1065, IRS Needs to cussing the IRS’s problems in collecting de- and reasons for recall. We would also like an Complete Steps to Help Ensure Contracting linquent debt. A list of these reports is at- accounting of the commissions earned by the Out Achieves Desired Results and Best Use tached. Some of the key findings include: PCAs since the program started. of Federal Resources. In its May 1993 report, New Delinquent Tax Some taxpayers choose to ignore the IRS’s June 2008, GAO–08–728, IRS Has a Complex Collection Methods for IRS, the GAO high- many letters and respond to the IRS only Process to Attempt to Collect Billions of lighted the complexity of the IRS’s collec- after it notifies them that their cases will be Dollars in Unpaid Tax Debts. tion process. GAO presented a number of op- referred to a PCA. In these cases, where the December 2008, GAO–09–146, Tax Adminis- tions to improve the IRS’s delinquent debt IRS benefits from the use of the PCA’s tration: IRS’s 2008 Filing Season Generally process, including establishing early tele- names, we would like to know why the PCAs Successful Despite Challenges, although IRS phone contact with debtors and utilizing pri- are not compensated when those taxpayers Could Expand Enforcement During Returns vate collection agencies. So there is a long settle those debts. Processing. track record indicating that a well-run PDC We would also like for you to describe how TIGTA program could be successful. IRS’s collection process and procedure dif- March 2007, 2007–30–066, The Private Debt In its June 2007 report, Tax Debt Collec- fers from the process and procedure used by Collection Program Was Effectively Devel- tion: IRS Has a Complex Process to Attempt PCAs in collecting IRS debts, including the oped and Implemented, but Some Follow-up to Collect Billions of Dollars in Unpaid IRS’s ability to make outbound phone calls, Actions Are Still Necessary.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.003 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2728 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 December 2007, 2008–10–054, Invoice Audit of A bill (H.R. 1105) making omnibus appro- Well, let me tell you what has hap- Fees Paid Under the Private Debt Collection priations for the fiscal year ending Sep- pened. After the Federal Government Initiative. tember 30, 2009, and for other purposes. spent $71 million in start-up costs to March 2008, 2008–20–078, Private Collection Pending: allow two companies, one in Iowa and Agencies Adequately Protected Taxpayer Coburn amendment No. 596, to require the Data. one in New York, to move forward on April 2008, 2008–30–095, Trends in Compli- use of competitive procedures to award con- this first phase of outsourcing pro- ance Activities Through Fiscal Year 2007. tracts, grants, and cooperative agreements grams, they started operations in Sep- funded under this act. tember 2006. Presently, the IRS has Mr. GRASSLEY. It boils down to the Coburn amendment No. 608, to provide for fact that we should have a chance to the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights contracts with two companies—one in obtain and review this information be- Crime Act from funds already provided for Senator GRASSLEY’s State of Iowa and fore killing a program that is going the Weed and Seed Program. one in the State of New York—for the after money owed—$25,000 or less—from Coburn modified amendment No. 623, to collection of unpaid Federal income people who have said they acknowledge prohibit taxpayer dollars from being ear- tax liabilities. The IRS is currently in they owe it, that IRS employees would marked to 14 clients of a lobbying firm under the process of determining whether to not go after. This affects jobs in a cou- Federal investigation for making campaign exercise the option to extend these donations in exchange for political favors for ple States, and I wish to say that when the group’s clients. contracts for a 1-year period. That is we are having a program—as the stim- Coburn amendment No. 610, to prohibit why our language came in and said: ulus bill did—to keep people from being funding for congressional earmarks for Stop, don’t do it. And I will explain laid off and to have people being hired, wasteful and parochial pork projects. why. There are a host of reasons. you would at least think we would not Wicker amendment No. 607, to require that The collection of Federal taxes, of think about eliminating jobs in a cou- amounts appropriated for the United Nations course, is a core Government function, ple States. I was a supporter of this Population Fund are not used by organiza- but I am not going to argue with the tions which support coercive abortion or in- premise that we should see if we can do program before any contracts were voluntary sterilization. awarded. As I said, I will not support Thune amendment No. 635, to provide fund- it with more cost efficiency by using the program if it does not prove effec- ing for the Emergency Fund for Indian Safe- private collectors. It is true that the tive. ty and Health, with an offset. information we are talking about here Given the propensity to spend the Murkowski amendment No. 599, to modify is sensitive information. So the IRS, of Government seems to be afflicted with, a provision relating to the repromulgation of course, has access to more information there is going to be a hunger for new final rules by the Secretary of the Interior about the debtors than the private col- and the Secretary of Commerce. sources of revenue which is going to be lection agencies, and we want to al- controversial. What should not be con- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, Senator ways make certain we protect the controversial is that we need to collect GRASSLEY and I do not see eye to eye fidentiality of certain information all taxes currently owed in the most effec- on this issue, and I wish to state for American citizens share with their tive and most efficient way possible the record why this section was in- Government and don’t believe it is and particularly not ignore a policy of cluded in the appropriations bill. going to be broadcast to any private not going after money under $25,000. First, it is hard for me to follow his company. So there is a natural tension Since the private debt collection pro- argument that because the Finance here between the efforts of a private gram will accomplish that, I urge sup- Committee created a permissive ar- business making money collecting port for this amendment when it comes rangement where the Internal Revenue back taxes and the Internal Revenue up. Service could enter into contracts with Service, which has more information at I yield the floor. private companies to collect IRS debts, their disposal in making evaluations it somehow takes away the authority but also a higher responsibility and f of the Appropriations Committee to duty in protecting the privacy of tax- RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME even address this issue. It is a permis- payers with the information they pro- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- sive statute. It does not require the vide our Government. pore. Under the previous order, the IRS to sign up a private company. Let’s get down to the bottom line. leadership time is reserved. When the IRS does exercise the right Using private companies to collect The Senator from Illinois is recog- under that statute, it involves Federal taxes is far more costly than having nized. expenditures, appropriations. qualified, trained IRS employees do the My provision in this bill is not tax f work. I couldn’t say that without evi- language. My provision in this bill dence to back it up. Since the incep- AUTHORIZATION TO APPOINT says: None of the funds in this bill may tion of this private collection program, ESCORT COMMITTEE be used to enter into, renew, extend, the Internal Revenue Service has spent Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, before administer, implement, enforce or pro- approximately $80 million to set it up responding to the Senator from Iowa, I vide oversight of such a contract. We and administer it and we have received ask unanimous consent that the Presi- go directly to the spending aspects. back as taxpayers $60 million in net dent of the Senate be authorized to ap- There is no committee violation here. revenue, after paying these private point a committee on the part of the This is our jurisdiction. companies in Iowa and New York $13 Senate to join with a like committee Senator GRASSLEY’s committee, the million in commissions—$13 million to on the part of the House of Representa- Finance Committee, does not pay for receive back $60 million. According to tives to escort the Honorable Gordon these agencies. The appropriations the IRS, private collection agencies Brown, Prime Minister of the United process does. So we are exercising our were originally projected to bring in Kingdom, into the House Chamber for authority—no violation of committee $65 million in fiscal year 2007 and up to the joint meeting. jurisdiction, which, of course, means $127 million in fiscal year 2008. So what The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- little to those following this debate but happened? Instead, they raised $32 mil- pore. Without objection, it is so or- means a lot to those of us who serve in lion in 2007—less than half of what we dered. this Chamber. expected—and only $37 million in gross f Let me tell you what this is about. revenue in fiscal year 2008, about a This is about collecting debts owed to fourth of what we expected. So their OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, the Federal Government, specifically performance was dramatically less 2009 the Internal Revenue Service, and the than promised, dramatically less than The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Finance Committee said: Let’s see, if the IRS anticipated when they entered pore. Under the previous order, the we let private collection agencies do it, into these contracts. Senate will resume consideration of whether they can save us money and do The IRS has not identified any best H.R. 1105, which the clerk will report it more effectively. That is a legiti- practices from these private tax collec- by title. mate inquiry. It is one I would be open tors, which was one of the stated inten- The assistant legislative clerk read to. I think it is reasonable to see if tions of the program. These private as follows: that might happen. companies were supposed to show us

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.010 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2729 the way to collect money more effec- These agencies have failed to meet the privacy of the taxpayers in the tively. So far, they haven’t, and they the goals they set in terms of the process. Section 106, which Senator have fallen down in their own goals in amount of money they collect and how GRASSLEY addresses, will ensure that terms of collection of back taxes. The much they would charge the Govern- appropriated funds for tax collection private companies have collected ap- ment for all the years they have been work will be put to optimum use with- proximately one-half or less of what doing this—in the 2 straight years. Is it in the agency rather than being di- they were supposed to bring in, but any wonder we have questioned wheth- verted to outsourced Government they continue to be paid 21 to 24 per- er we should continue this? This is a work, which has shown that it cannot cent in commissions on the easiest subsidy—a subsidy to private compa- meet its promises of reducing the cost cases of all, totaling $13 million we nies that have not met the burden they of Government and increasing collec- have paid to these private companies. said they would meet to prove to the tions. We know it works. Let’s stick Now, Senator GRASSLEY made a ref- taxpayers theirs was a more cost-effi- with it. erence to student loan collection. Of cient way to collect back taxes. I yield the floor. course, he should acknowledge, if he The last argument made by Senator The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- makes that reference, that we cap the GRASSLEY is an interesting one. He ar- pore. The Senator from Iowa. commission for student loan collection gued—even though he opposed Presi- Mr. GRASSLEY. I am not going to at 16 percent. Instead, these companies dent Obama’s stimulus package—that take long to respond because I think in Iowa and in New York are being paid we needed to keep subsidizing these the main point I make is this. My re- 21 to 24 percent of back taxes collected, private collection agencies because we marks were not addressed by the Sen- so they are getting a premium and need to create more jobs in America. In ator from Illinois. The issue we are they are collecting far less than they other words, this would be Senator talking about is an IRS policy that said they would. GRASSLEY’s private stimulus package they will not go after any amount of The story gets more interesting. for this company in Iowa. Well, I would money under $25,000, even though those The IRS already has a significant say to the Senator that, sadly, with the are amounts that individuals agreed collection infrastructure: thousands of state of this economy, collection agen- they owe. trained employees. I heard Senator cies shouldn’t have any problems find- So any comparisons of what the IRS GRASSLEY make negative references to ing work to do. I just don’t think the can do versus what private debt collec- unions. That is his point of view. I American taxpayers ought to be sub- tion agencies can do is not legitimate don’t share it, but I do believe union sidizing them. I think basic Mid- because you can hire more IRS employ- employees should be given an oppor- western values suggest to us that we ees. But I told you the policy of the tunity to be compared in their collec- have experimented and the experiment IRS if they hire more employees, they tion practices with those in private results are in. This has turned out not will not go after amounts of $25,000 or business. Let’s be fair about this. This to be a good investment of taxpayers’ less and I think it is fair to taxpayers was an experiment, and the premise money. As the chairman of the sub- that are honest, that every dollar owed was that if you just turn it over to a committee that has to pay for this, I is collected. Not one dollar more. And profit-making, private company, it is can’t justify it. I can’t justify it for that we shouldn’t have a government going to do a better job and it will be New York or for Iowa or for any State. policy that is not going to go after it, cheaper for the Government—cheaper We tried this experiment in good faith, and this program does go after it. than relying on IRS employees who and the private collection agencies He mentioned start-up costs and this may or may not be members of the failed to come through as promised. is very important because you cannot union to which Senator GRASSLEY re- Let’s put the money, as I suggest in judge the cost effectiveness of a pro- ferred. The automated collection sys- this appropriations bill, into the gram based on how much was spent on tem in the Internal Revenue Service is trained employees, with the automated start-up costs. There are start-up costs a critical collection operation. It col- collection system, who are bringing in any Federal agency, for any new lects nearly $1.5 million per employee, back, by a margin of 8 to 1, more back agency or program that starts out. You per year. It works. So the employees at taxes than these private companies in can’t weigh the costs incurred for what the IRS are collecting the back taxes Iowa and New York. I believe that is was supposed to be a permanent pro- as they promised they would. reasonable, and I find it hard to under- gram against the benefits of a program Now, listen to this: The Internal Rev- stand how many of my Republican col- that hasn’t been fully operational for enue Service National Taxpayer Advo- leagues who criticize this Omnibus ap- most of the 2 years of its existence. cate, Nina Olsen, has estimated that propriations bill for wasting money And the reason it hasn’t been fully IRS employees collect $32 for every $1 would vote for the Grassley amend- operational, is that the union, the tax- spent, compared to collections by the ment which would continue the sub- payer advocate, and even the chief private agencies of $4 for every dollar sidy—wasting taxpayers’ dollars—with counsel, continued to throw up road- given to them in commissions—8 to 1. private collection agencies that have blocks by weighing in on what type of If this is about comparing the dollar not been as effective as the Internal cases the contractors could work. This cost of collecting back taxes, the IRS Revenue Service. means that even though the program employees win this 8 to 1. How in the Until these private companies can was supposed to start in September world can anyone justify continuing prove they can do the job better, do it 2006, it was months later before the subsidizing private collection agencies more efficiently, do it at a lower cost, contractors received the full allocation that can’t do the job as well as the em- there is no reason we should continue of cases they were supposed to get. ployees of the Internal Revenue Serv- this subsidy. A personal stimulus bill The Senator from Illinois asked what ice? for a company in Iowa and a company happened in regards to why the actual According to the ‘‘Taxpayer Advo- in New York is something we can ill af- amounts collected to date by contrac- cate Annual Report to Congress’’ in ford to do at this moment when we are tors was lower than expected. Well, December 2008, the IRS automated sys- trying to deal with the costs of this that is what happened. And to his point tem of collection—using IRS employ- Government and bringing them under about paying $13 million for $60 million ees—collected more than three times control. of revenues. Let’s be honest—the con- as much as the private collectors did. The Omnibus appropriations bill in- tractors are paid on a commission basis They went on to say that this auto- creases funding for the IRS with a so the IRS isn’t paying anything out of mated collection system in the IRS boost of over $337 million in enforce- its pockets. The contractors are get- collected 13 percent of the balance due, ment activity. With these enhanced ting a percentage of the taxes they col- while private collectors collected 4 per- funds, the IRS will be hiring new em- lect and they don’t get paid for all the cent of the balance due. By every tan- ployees who can do this work effi- work they do that generates no collec- gible measure, the employees of the ciently, as they have proven time and tion. Because of the IRS policy to not IRS are doing a dramatically better job time again. They have the tools, they collect taxes due under $25,000, the $60 than those in the private collection have the options the taxpayers have a million IRS did get is revenue that IRS agencies. right to expect, and they will protect would never have received.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.005 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2730 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 He also mentioned this, there is a dif- I ask unanimous consent to be recog- law enforcement agencies—the FBI, ference between what is paid to edu- nized following the presentation by the Bureau of Alcohol and Firearms, and cation debt collection contractors and Senator from Maryland. the Marshal Service. what is paid to tax debt collection con- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- So if you want to know, why should tractors. He is right. But there is a fac- pore. Without objection, it is so or- we support the CJS? If you want jobs tor with collecting taxes that is not dered. today and tomorrow, you want to vote true in the case of the Education De- Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, I for this appropriation. If you want to partment and that is the privacy issues know the Senate is on a tight time- keep neighborhoods safe, you want to that have been brought up. The con- frame because there will be a joint ses- vote for this appropriation. If you want tractors with the IRS incur higher ex- sion of Congress to welcome the Prime the marshals going after sexual preda- penses than education contractors be- Minister of England, our greatest ally. tors so there are no more Adam cause they don’t have access to all the I rise today as the chairperson of the Walshes, vote for this bill. If you want information IRS has because the law Appropriations Commerce, Justice, to protect violence against women, vic- does protect the privacy of taxpayers. Science Subcommittee and to lay out tims of domestic violence, and have the And because they have to provide all of for our colleagues what is in this ap- shelters and community interventions, the safeguards and protections that propriation and why it is needed and you want to vote for this bill. If you IRS provides, the contractors have to what compelling human needs it meets. are so proud of the great genius of the incur more security expenses than edu- No. 1, why do we have to do this since United States of America and its entre- cation contractors. we passed the stimulus? Actually, we preneurship that comes up with these The Senator from Illinois mentioned should have done this before the stim- new ideas, these new products, you the success of IRS’s use of automated ulus. We should have done it in Octo- want to vote for this bill because you collection systems. You have to re- ber. Why didn’t we? We didn’t do it in want a Patent Office where you don’t member that there is nothing auto- October because we were facing a hos- want to stand in line for years to be mated about the IRS’s so-called auto- tile White House and an OMB Director able to protect your ideas so they are matic collection system. The contrac- who was hostile to the very agencies not stolen or hijacked or pirated tors use automated systems to deter- this funds. We didn’t want to send this around the world. You want to vote for mine which taxpayer to call next. The appropriations to the Bush White this bill. If you want to protect our IRS doesn’t even make outbound phone House because all we would have faced planet—global warming is a real calls—the only phone calls are return- was one more back-and-forth par- threat, from the standpoint of our Di- ing phone calls when taxpayers call the liamentary quagmire. rector of National Intelligence, who IRS with questions about a letter they This appropriation keeps the U.S. says global warming could destabilize received. Government going. What my sub- populations, and it is a national secu- Finally, the Senator from Illinois de- committee does is fund those agencies rity issue. It is not only about pro- scribed my efforts to continue to fund that are critical and crucial to the eco- tecting the polar bears; it is also about the IRS program as my own personal nomic growth of the United States of protecting the Port of Baltimore, stimulus plan because it will save jobs America, that will protect the commu- Chesapeake Bay, our coastline, and in Iowa. I want to make clear that it nities of the United States, and will those around the world. If you want to was expected that the IRS would con- also work to protect our planet. In protect the planet and our homeland, tract with 10 or 15 contractors—not terms of economic growth, this is the you want to vote for this bill. just 2. But because of all the road- subcommittee that funds all science In summary, these are the top 10 rea- blocks put up by the union and others, agencies with the extension of the Na- sons to support CJS in the 2009 omni- the IRS apparently claims that there tional Institutes of Health and the De- bus bill: aren’t enough cases to provide to even partment of Energy. It comes up with I ask unanimous consent to have these two contractors. This doesn’t the new ideas. It follows the rec- them printed in the RECORD. make sense to me since there is appar- ommendations of the National Acad- There being no objection, the mate- ently $25 billion of potentially collect- emy of Sciences about how we can rise rial was ordered to be printed in the ible debt that the IRS is not pursuing. above the gathering storm to be com- RECORD, as follows: petitive today and be able to be com- The program, if run properly, would 1. Funds the FBI, our chief domestic na- have and should have been expanded to petitive tomorrow. In English, and in tional security agency, to take down terror include other contractors. And I would the diners around Maryland, that cells and dirty bombs on U.S. soil ($7 billion). also like to point out that these two would mean jobs today and tomorrow. 2. Adds 85 FBI agents and forensic account- contractors are national organizations It is in basic research that we come up ing professionals to combat mortgage and fi- and between them are likely to have with the new ideas that lead to the new nancial fraud ($10 million). offices and employees in almost all of products, that lead to the new jobs. 3. Funds DEA to fight international drug the 50 States. That is what this CJS funds. At the cartels that finance terrorism and infiltrate So the bottom line of our approach in same time, it funds the Patent Office. our neighborhoods with heroin and meth ($2 Our colleagues on the Judiciary com- billion). this program is to make sure that the 4. Funds ATF to partner with the military honest taxpayer is protected. And that mittee will be giving us a new frame- to dismantle IEDs that maim and kill our we do not support an IRS policy that work for the protection of patents. troops on the battlefield ($1 billion). we aren’t going to collect the money That is a geek word that means if you 5. Supports cops on the beat—provides $3.2 from everyone—a policy which is not invent it, we are going to protect you, billion for state and local law enforcement, clear to me that IRS is going to and you will be able to harvest the ben- $2.1 billion above the previous Administra- change. And we’re showing that we do efits of your new idea. We are going to tion’s request—to help state and local police not accept this policy through this pro- protect intellectual property because it fight gangs, drugs, crime and child preda- is right now, in the knowledge-driven tors. gram. We are going after that money 6. Highest funding level ever for the Vio- that no IRS employee is going to go economy, the property of choice to be lence Against Women Act programs to com- after. And if you’re going to be fair to protected. bat sexual assault and domestic violence and the taxpayer that pays every dollar This subcommittee funds research, help victims get their lives back together that they owe, it seems to me we innovation, the development of tech- ($415 million). should make every effort we can to go nology. It also funds the Department of 7. Protects our kids from predators by pre- after all taxpayers who do not pay Justice—gosh, a Department of Justice venting, investigating and prosecuting their taxes. I yield the floor. that even remembers what the name crimes against children ($234 million). The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- means. I am so excited about working 8. Advances climate research and restores satellite climate sensors cut by the previous pore. The Senator from North Dakota with our new Attorney General. Administration ($270 million). is recognized. In addition to the work of the Justice 9. Enhances U.S. competitiveness and inno- Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, my un- Department, it funds local law enforce- vation by increasing science and technology derstanding is the Senator from Mary- ment through cops on the beat and research at NSF and NIST, a 7 percent in- land is going to seek recognition next. Byrne grants, and our national Federal crease over last year ($913 million).

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.016 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2731 10. Restores fiscal responsibility and ac- anic and Atmospheric Agency. If we rorism and violent crime. To that end, countability to ensure stewardship of tax- don’t do this appropriation, NASA will our bill provides $26.1 billion for the payer dollars—prohibits funds for lavish ban- be funded close to a half billion dollars Justice Department, which is $3 billion quets, controls cost overruns, and requires below what is in the omnibus. This above the previous President’s budget IGs to do random audits of grantees. would be a major setback to developing request. We fund the FBI our domestic Ms. MIKULSKI. I am tired of the a reliable transportation system to counterterrorism agency with mission naysayers who come up with these continue our human space flights. We of dismantling terror cells and weapons quirky little congressionally des- are already going to go dark in space, of mass destruction on U.S. soil at $7.3 ignated projects and make them a sub- where we are going to rely on the Rus- billion, which is $155 million above the ject of ridicule. Our country, our ship sians to get us up to our very own previous President’s budget request. of state, right now is leaking. We can space station. But what this could The CJS bill is the major Federal right that ship and President Obama is mean is the loss of several thousand funding source for our State and local righting that ship. This CJS bill is the jobs in Florida, Texas, Mississippi, Ala- police departments. The previous right tool to be able to do that. bama, Utah, and Louisiana. If we don’t President’s budget request proposed What are the consequences of not pass this by the end of March, layoff dramatic cuts totaling $2 billion to passing this bill? I will tell you right notices will begin. Aren’t we for jobs State and local grant funding. We re- now. Let’s go to law enforcement. If we today and jobs tomorrow? Aren’t we for ject those cuts and instead provide a do not pass this bill and we put it on building rocket ships and spaceships? total of $3.2 billion to support our thin something called a continuing resolu- We have to pass this bill. blue line. tion, that is essentially keeping it Then when we look at NOAA. We all Among those funds, the CJS bill pro- barely afloat. The FBI will get a half love the weather reports. We rely upon vides $550 million for COPS grants, billion dollars less to run their agency them for early warnings of tornadoes which pay for gear and technology— for this year. If Director Mueller were and hurricanes and, at the same time, such as bulletproof vests and crime here, he would say this means 650 fewer to be able to give us traffic. Weather scene analysis—to keep our cops safe, FBI special agents. It means less ana- reports don’t come from the Weather and to help them catch criminals. We lysts and other people fighting crime Channel. The Weather Channel gets its also have $546 million for Byrne-justice on U.S. soil. It means we cannot hire information from the weather services assistance grants, a formula-based pro- 100 new FBI specialists in forensic ac- provided by our Government at NOAA. gram that is the main Federal funding We ought to rename it the ‘‘National counting to go after the mortgage tool for State and local police oper- Oceans Atmospheric and Weather Ad- fraud people. Remember them—the ations, which was zeroed out by the ministration.’’ Right now, they are scammers, the bums? We would not be previous administration. For juvenile weathering their own storm. If this able to do that. justice and delinquency prevention continuing resolution hits them, it Let’s talk about drug enforcement. mentoring and antigang programs we means more layoffs. We won’t be able There will be $52 million less for DEA. provide $374 million, which is $189 mil- to develop the right technology to pre- What are some of the biggest threats lion more than that the previous Presi- dict and give the early warnings that facing us right now? Let’s talk about dent request. Lastly, we provide $415 Mexico. Mexico is on the verge of a are so important to our people. Then I wish to talk about education. million to prevent violence against state of siege because of the drug car- women, which is the highest level ever tels that are running rampant. If you Through the National Science Founda- tion, and other science agencies in allocated for Violence Against Women watch the news and listen to the Am- Act programs. bassador of Mexico and to their com- here, we work to promote education, to get our young people excited and par- In addition to helping our State and pelling issues down there—look at locals keep our communities safe, the what was on ‘‘60 Minutes,’’ where the ticipating in science and technology, so that they want to come into these ex- CJS bill funds our major Federal law drug cartels are roaming streets with enforcement agencies. We provide $1.9 assault rifles, shooting police chiefs, citing new possible careers, where they are going to come up with new ideas billion for the DEA to fight inter- shooting elected officials, kidnapping— and inventions. This makes a major national narcoterrorists and drug king- that is on our border. We need the downpayment so we can coordinate pins. There is also $1.1 billion for the DEA. Then there are the narcotraf- with our new Secretary of Education Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms fickers in Colombia—in that long, and our President, who is such a strong and Explosives, ATF, to combat violent steadfast fight where we are making advocate of this. gun crime and gangs and investigate progress. Then there is Afghanistan, If you wish to have a country that is arson. which provides 85 percent of the meeting the day-to-day needs of our The CJS bill contains $954 million for world’s poppy. We are going to send own people, yet looking ahead to the the Marshals Service to apprehend fu- thousands of more troops into Afghani- long-range needs of our country, you gitive sex offenders and other violent stan. want to vote for this appropriation. criminals. We included $1.8 billion for I am not too excited about that part, You want to vote for the subcommittee our U.S. Attorneys to prosecute gang but that is a debate for another time. portion of this appropriation. The leaders, gun traffickers and drug deal- But what is going on in Afghanistan? other reason, for those who are con- ers. Lastly, we provide $6.2 billion for They are growing poppy like Iowa cerned about the issue of bipartisan- management and construction of Fed- grows corn. It is an enormous drug ship, is we developed this jointly and eral prisons to ensure our Federal pris- crop. What does the money from that collegially and civilly with my col- ons are safe and secure. do? First, it corrupts Government and league from Alabama, Senator RICHARD These agencies are the backbone of elected officials. It corrupts the judici- SHELBY. This bill has his endorsement our criminal justice system. They en- ary. It has a corrupting influence. So and it will have his vote. Senator SHEL- force our laws, catch criminals and we are going to send American troops BY and I have worked together for keep our communities safe. to fight and die for something that many years, and we believe that good Most importantly, this bill protects could be bordering on a narcostate? people can find common ground, find the most vulnerable among us: our I say, before we send in more ma- an accessible center in the rough and children. We provide over $234 million rines, let’s send in more DEA agents to tumble of politics that enables us to to keep our kids safe from predators work with the Karzai government to do come before the Senate with a bipar- and violence. something about the growth of poppy tisan approach to the Commerce, Jus- The CJS includes $5 million to hire 20 and the funding of the Taliban. Let’s tice, Science bill. new U.S. marshals to track down and send in DEA agents. Under this, we are I want to thank Senator SHELBY and arrest fugitive sex offenders, $47 mil- going to have a hiring freeze. Agents his staff for their cooperation and lion for the FBI Innocent Images pro- would have to take furloughs. But that collegiality in crafting the CJS portion gram to catch deviants who use the is OK, that is just in law enforcement. of the bill we are considering. Internet to prey on children, $5 million Let’s talk about the national space The CJS Subcommittee’s top priority to hire 25 new assistant U.S. Attorneys agency, NASA, and the National Oce- is keeping Americans safe from ter- to prosecute sex offenders, $70 million

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.006 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2732 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 for state and local law enforcement ef- Science to measure our ice sheets, cli- was murdered in Money, MS, on Au- forts to find and apprehend child preda- mate, and atmosphere so we can better gust 28, 1955. He was dragged from his tors, and $16 million for grants to predict changes to our planet. uncle’s home and shot in the head. His school districts to keep kids safe at We provide $606 million for NASA body was dumped in the Tallahatchie school. science into how the sun affects the River, tied to a 70-pound cotton gin I am proud to report that the CJS Earth. This helps predict and warn with barb wire, and found 3 days later bill follows the framework of the about events like solar flares that can by fishermen. Emmett’s mother de- America COMPETES Act and makes knock out our communications and manded an open casket to show the investments to improve America’s power grids. world the brutality of his murder. competitiveness. The CJS has $966 million for NOAA The murder of Emmett Till was a The bill provides $819 million for the weather satellites, which are impor- key event igniting the civil rights National Institute of Standards and tant early warning tools. If we can bet- movement. Emmett’s two killers never Technology, which includes $65 million ter predict and warn when tornadoes served a day in jail for their heinous for the new Technology Innovation and hurricanes are coming, we can save crime. An all-White jury acquitted Program and $110 million for the manu- lives and save money. We provide $74 them in 67 minutes. The killers later facturing extension partnership, MEP. million to restore critical climate sen- admitted to murdering Emmett Till, This is important funding to develop sors that had been deleted from our but could not be prosecuted for the new technologies and new products and next generation polar satellites be- crime because they had already been make American manufacturers more cause of cost overruns. We also include found innocent by a jury. competitive. $420 million for NOAA research to help In May 2004, 49 years after the mur- We also provide $6.5 billion for the us better understand our oceans and at- der, the Department of Justice re- NSF, including $845 million dedicated mosphere and how they interact and opened the case to finally determine if for education. These funds focus on change. anyone else was involved in the killing. science, technology, engineering, and Finally, the CJS bill continues to The FBI exhumed Emmett Till’s body mathematics, and will develop our next emphasize congressional oversight, ac- and performed an autopsy. Two years generation of scientists and engineers. countability and fiscal stewardship. later, the FBI determined no one else For the National Oceanic and Atmos- We meet our constitutional obliga- was involved and officially closed the pheric Administration, NOAA, we pro- tions for a timely and accurate Census case. vide $4.4 billion, including: $945 million by providing $3.1 million for the 2010 On October 7, 2008, President Bush for our weather service to predict and Census. This will keep the Census on signed a law named after Emmett Till. warn us about severe weather, and $758 track, despite the previous administra- The purpose of the legislation is to million for our fisheries service to pro- tion’s mismanagement of an informa- make sure Justice Department has the tect our marine resources. tion technology contract. necessary resources to investigate civil The bill also provides $17.8 billion for The CJS Subcommittee continues its rights cold cases. NASA, which is $200 million more than oversight role by cracking down on Cold cases are extremely difficult to the previous President’s budget re- cost overruns or mismanagement of solve. Investigators run into many quest. We meet our obligations to fully taxpayer dollars. The bill insists on dead ends, as witnesses are hard to find fund the space shuttle at $3 billion, the discipline and vigorous oversight by re- and evidence can be easily misplaced, space station at $2 billion, and the next quiring each agency to notify the com- mishandled or destroyed. Additionally, generation space vehicle at $3.1 billion mittee when costs of projects grow by investigations use up a lot of time and this year. more than 10 percent, thereby creating money resources. Finally, the CJS bill supports an in- an early warning system. However, solving these cases is im- novation friendly government by pro- We also require that inspectors gen- portant. This is about more than just viding full funding at $2 billion for the eral conduct random audits of grant bringing killers to justice. Solving Patent and Trademark Office, PTO, to funding to ensure compliance. these cases is about letting victims’ reduce backlogs of patent applications Finally, the bill complies fully with families get on with their lives, about and protect our intellectual property; legislative transparency and account- moving beyond racial hatred, and rec- and $430 million for the International ability rules. onciliation. Trade Administration to enforce our Again, I want to thank Senator I want to be clear I support funding trade laws. SHELBY and his staff—Art Cameron, for investigating cold cases. That is The CJS bill also makes important Goodloe Sutton, Allen Cutler and Au- why I fought hard to make sure there investments in America’s future. We gusta Wilson—for their cooperation is money in the Federal checkbook for provide $240 million for economic de- and collegiality. fiscal year 2009 to support the Emmett velopment grants—$140 million more The CJS bill meets the day to day Till law. The CJS portion of the omni- than requested by the previous admin- needs of our constituents by keeping bus provides the Department of Justice istration—to help communities create them safe from terrorism and violent with the resources it needs to inves- jobs and opportunity. We also provide crime. It looks out for the long-term tigate civil rights cold cases. $20 million for public television infra- needs of our Nation by making invest- To boost resources for civil rights structure grants. ments in America’s physical and intel- cold case investigations, the CJS bill The CJS bill funds the science we use lectual infrastructure to create and provide $123 million for the Depart- to monitor and predict changes in our sustain jobs for today and jobs for to- ment of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, weather and climate, and make policy morrow. which is $7 million more than 2008, and decisions on actions we should take to For these reasons, I urge my col- charged with heading up the investiga- save our planet. In fact, the CJS bill leagues to support it. tion and enforcement responsibilities funds 85 percent of all Federal climate AMENDMENT NO. 608 set forth in the Emmett Till bill. We change science. Mr. President, I rise to oppose the include $151 million for funding to re- Specifically, we provide $1.4 billion amendment No. 608 offered by the Sen- duce enormous backlog of untested for NASA Earth science for satellite ator from Oklahoma. Simply put, this DNA evidence. There is a backlog of missions that tell us how much pollu- amendment is a solution in search of a 500,000 unsolved cases with untested tion is in our atmosphere, our problem. The CJS portion of the omni- DNA evidence sitting in evidence lock- rainforests and ice sheets are shifting, bus does provide funds for the Depart- ers today. and the height and chemistry of our ment of Justice to solve civil right cold So that State and local law enforce- oceans are changing. Funding for Earth cases. This amendment is a distraction. ment have the means to carry out their science includes $150 million for new Before I speak about why I oppose roles in investigating civil rights cold NASA earth science missions, which is this amendment, however, we must cases, we provide $30 million for com- $50 million above the previous Presi- first talk about Emmett Till. petitive funds for State and local gov- dent’s request. This funding is rec- Emmett Till was a 14-year-old Afri- ernment to investigate and prosecute ommended by the National Academy of can-American boy from Chicago who civil rights violations. There is also $25

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.019 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2733 million for competitive grants to State vancement of Colored People, the Southern we have hired private collection agen- and locals to reduce forensic evidence Poverty Law Center. and the National Urban cies to collect lower level delinquent backlogs. League to investigate the unsolved racially- taxes and, in fact, we have actually The CJS bill provides $9.8 million for motivated violent crimes committed more lost money in doing so. than 40 years ago. The FBI has prioritized the Justice Department’s Community the top dozen of these cases, though there It is almost unthinkable that some- Relations Service to train local law en- are more than 100 unsolved murder cases one who is going to collect taxes is forcement how to mediate racial ten- from the civil rights era under review by the going to lose money doing it. That is sions in communities. We also have FBI. like being in business to sell tomatoes $75.6 million for the inspector general You have my personal commitment that and someone is going to give me the to- at Department of Justice, which is $5 the Department will continue to pursue matoes and you lose money. million more than 2008. Under the Em- these serious crimes in those matters in Here is what the taxpayer advocate which the law and the facts would permit ef- says. The tax advocate is someone who mett Till law, the Inspector General fective law enforcement action. We will con- has the authority to investigate miss- tinue to use our resources and expertise to works independently inside the Inter- ing children cold cases. identify and locate those responsible for nal Revenue Service on behalf of tax- In addition to cold case investiga- these crimes and prosecute them whenever payers. Taxpayer Advocate Olson says tions, the CJS bill provides robust possible, consistent with the Principles of that since its inception—this latest funding to enforce our Nation’s civil Federal Prosecution. iteration of using private collection rights laws. It includes $1.84 billion, Sincerely, agencies—the IRS has spent roughly which is $88 million more than 2008, for ERIC H. HOLDER, Jr. $80 million to set up and administer the U.S. attorneys office at Depart- Ms. MIKULSKI. It is time to move this program to collect delinquent ment of Justice. These are the attor- the appropriations. We have to make taxes. They have spent $80 million but neys who investigate and prosecute sure our Government can function so collected net revenues of only $60 mil- civil rights violations. The bill also has our economy can function. lion. $9 million for the Commission on Civil I yield the floor. Think of that. You hire some private Rights, which is responsible for making The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- companies to collect delinquent taxes. agencies are complying with Federal pore. The Senator from North Dakota It costs $80 million to get it going and civil rights laws and raising public is recognized. administer it, and you collect $60 mil- awareness on civil rights. Lastly, we Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, prior to lion. I took rudimentary math in a include $343 million for the Equal Em- the statement by the Senator from high school senior class of nine stu- ployment Opportunity Commission, Maryland, I was listening to the discus- dents in a town of 300 people. I can un- whose mission is to end workplace dis- sion between Senator GRASSLEY and derstand that equation. You spend $80 crimination. This is $14.8 million above Senator DURBIN on an issue that I million and collect $60 million. It 2008 and will help reduce the current know Senator GRASSLEY feels strongly means you lost $20 million. It makes no backlog of EEOC cases. about. I don’t believe there is an sense to me. I urge my colleagues to oppose amendment yet offered. I hope it is not By the way, the firms that did this amendment No. 608 and support the offered, frankly. I have great respect also made $13 million in commissions. omnibus. The omnibus gives Depart- for the Senator from Iowa, Mr. GRASS- That is part of the shortfall here. ment of Justice the resources it needs LEY. He and I have worked together on It is also estimated by the taxpayer to investigate civil rights cold cases a range of issues, and he is a good legis- advocate in the Internal Revenue Serv- and enforce our country’s civil rights lator. He and the Senator from Illinois, ice that had they not hired a private laws. Mr. DURBIN, were having a disagree- collection agency and instead hired I have a letter from Attorney Gen- ment about this. collectors at the IRS, they would have eral Eric Holder stating his support for I come down on the side of the Sen- collected 13 times more money. This is the goals of the Emmett Till Act. At- ator from Illinois. This discussion is about, in my judgment, common sense torney General Holder is committed to about the issue of using private collec- and waste. Common sense suggests you the goals of the Emmett Till Act, and tion agencies to collect certain Inter- select the best alternative for col- this letter gives his personal commit- nal Revenue Service delinquent taxes. lecting these taxes. The alternative ment to continuing to use funding to First, let me say that I think people that would give the taxpayers the most pursue these serious crimes. who are delinquent on their taxes for their investment and waste is about If the Senate does not pass the omni- ought to be squeezed a bit to pay them. deciding you are going to hire private bus, the Department of Justice will be Unless there is some extraneous cir- collection agencies and spend $80 mil- forced to operate at 2008 levels. This cumstance, I think most Americans lion and collect $60 million. means we will have to lay off investiga- voluntarily pay their taxes. They do Let me make a couple of observa- tors and prosecutors, and civil rights not necessarily like to but they do be- tions about what the tax advocate has enforcement and investigations will be cause that is part of the cost of citizen- said about these issues. The tax advo- compromised. ship in this country. We have to do cate has said—and again, this is an em- For all these reasons, I urge a ‘‘NO’’ things together. We build roads to- ployee inside the Internal Revenue vote on this amendment. gether, and we have a law enforcement Service: I ask unanimous consent that the function in our communities together. Private debt collection initiatives are fail- letter to which I referred be printed in We build schools, we have defense—we ing in most respects. . . . Not meeting rev- do all these things together. It costs the RECORD. enue projections, its return on investment is There being no objection, the mate- money, so we pay taxes. That’s part of dismal. Private collectors are no better at locating or collecting tax liabilities than the rial was ordered to be printed in the the cost of citizenship. There is great disagreement at what IRS itself. RECORD, as follows: level those taxes should be and who ac- If the taxpayer advocate that we fund THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, tually pays it. I understand all that. inside the Internal Revenue Service to Washington, DC, March 3, 2009. Hon. BARBARA MIKULSKI, But because we have a responsibility to look after the taxpayers says this is a Chairwoman, Subcommittee on Commerce, Jus- pay some taxes and because there are failure, let’s decide it is a failure. tice, Science and Related Agencies, Com- some who do not, we have taxes that The underlying legislation brought mittee on Appropriations, Washington, DC. are delinquent in the Internal Revenue to the floor in this omnibus package ef- DEAR MADAM CHAIRWOMAN: The Depart- Service that need to be collected. fectively says let’s get rid of this pro- ment of Justice wholeheartedly supports the The Internal Revenue Service has on gram. Let’s have the collections done goals of the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil two occasions begun experiments with as they should have been done and were Rights Crime Act. The racially-motivated hiring private collection agencies to done for a long time at the Internal murders from the civil rights era constitute some of the greatest blemishes upon our his- collect those taxes. The experience Revenue Service. They will not lose tory. with those experiments has not been money. We will collect 13 times more The Department is working in partnership good. Because there has been a great revenue, in my judgment, based on the with the National Association for the Ad- move toward privatizing everything, estimates.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.020 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2734 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 Former IRS Commissioner Mark Hall of the House of Representatives to perform the function of that agency. Everson in congressional testimony hear the address by the Prime Minister These contracts are not competitive said: of Great Britain. pursuant to the Indian Self-Determina- I have freely acknowledged it is more cost- (The address delivered by the Prime tion Act and other statutes enacted to ly to use private collection agencies than it Minister of Great Britain to the joint help Native Americans. would be were the IRS to do it. meeting of the two Houses of Congress In fact, efforts were made to correct That is from an IRS Commissioner. is printed in the Proceedings of the this language during the conference ne- Former Acting Commissioner Kevin House of Representatives in today’s gotiation of the recovery act so that Brown told the House Ways and Means RECORD.) small businesses—the backbone of this Committee: Whereupon, at 12 noon, the Senate, country—and Native American funding We can do it more efficiently. We have the having returned to its Chamber, reas- would not be unnecessarily penalized tools under the law that obviously are going sembled and was called to order by the by language that combined the broad to lead us to being more efficient. Presiding officer (Mr. CASEY). dismissal of authorization statutes and the narrow citing of one procurement My only point is, I hope there is not f an amendment on this issue. I have law. Even with the significant improve- OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, ments made to the original text, the great respect for my colleague from 2009—Continued Iowa. But I think this is a program Senator from Alaska, who is the rank- that should not have been started. Now The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ing member on the Energy and Natural Resources Committee, asked that I that it is started and losing money, it ator from California. enter into a colloquy with her during ought to be abandoned. If we are look- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I suggest consideration of the conference report ing after waste, fraud, and abuse issues the absence of a quorum. to clarify that the language did not im- and trying to protect the American The PRESIDING OFFICER. The pact existing Federal procurement law taxpayer and shut down the waste of clerk will call the roll. applicable to programs that allow for taxpayers’ money, there is no better The legislative clerk proceeded to set-asides and direct-award procure- candidate, in my judgment, than the call the roll. ments. candidate that is in this omnibus pack- Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for Mr. President, I cannot speak to the age and this particular subcommittee intentions of the Senator from Okla- by which we shut down the use of pri- the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without homa as to what he wants to accom- vate collection agencies that have ac- objection, it is so ordered. plish with this amendment. To be tually lost money for the American clear, however, I can speak to the con- taxpayers. My hope is we do not have AMENDMENT NO. 596 Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, amend- sequences of the pending amendment. an amendment on this point. In any It will have a destructive impact on event, it is long past the time for us to ment No. 596, offered by the Senator from Oklahoma, prohibiting funding the small business programs and Na- have shut down a program that is cost- tive American programs mentioned ing the American taxpayers money— from being used for no-bid contracts would appear on its face to be a good above. $20 million to hire private tax collec- Do we really want to prohibit small amendment, an amendment that some tors who are collecting less money veteran-owned businesses, service-dis- are asking: Why would I vote against than it is costing us to hire those col- abled, veteran-owned businesses from this? lectors. Federal funding opportunities unless When this amendment first appeared One might, by the way, look at this they compete in the same manner as as an amendment to the recovery act, and say: Man, how can that be con- large corporations? Do we really want the Senate passed it by a unanimous troversial? It seems to me that is a to prohibit small women-owned busi- vote because it appeared to be a good- slam dunk, that is common sense. If nesses from Federal funding opportuni- government amendment. However, that is the case, if that is what you ties unless they compete in the same what we quickly learned as we began think, you do not understand how the manner with large corporations? Do we system works because even things that conference negotiations with the House really want to say our Federal agencies are demonstrable failures are often is that the consequences of this amend- must ignore existing Federal procure- hard to shut down. This is an example ment are more far reaching than sim- ment laws that govern these small of that. We are close to getting that ply prohibiting no-bid contracts. business programs and Native Amer- done. Because of the way this amendment ican programs and allow only these Mr. President, I yield the floor. is drafted, it is destructive to small small businesses to compete subject to I suggest the absence of a quorum. business and minority-owned busi- section 303 of the law? The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. BEN- nesses in this country, as well as to Na- This amendment systematically ig- NET). The clerk will call the roll. tive American funding. This amend- nores years of Small Business Com- The legislative clerk proceeded to ment states the only procedures that mittee and Indian Affairs Committee call the roll. can be used to award funds in this act authorizations enacted into law by in- Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I ask are the procedures in accordance with sisting that all contracts be awarded unanimous consent that the order for only section 303 of the Federal Prop- through one specific section of one spe- the quorum call be rescinded. erty and Administrative Services Act. cific law. This is the exact language The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without As a result, this amendment prohibits the Senator from Oklahoma offered objection, it is so ordered. agencies from making any awards to during Senate consideration of the re- f small businesses through statutes that covery act and not the provision that have been enacted over the years that was amended after Members were made JOINT MEETING OF THE TWO provide assistance to small businesses, aware of the negative impacts on our HOUSES—ADDRESS BY THE including small veteran-owned busi- small business community. PRIME MINISTER OF GREAT nesses, service-disabled, veteran-owned Consequently, while it appears to be BRITAIN businesses, minority-owned businesses, a good-government amendment, it is in The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under tribal enterprises, women-owned busi- fact the opposite. If this amendment is the previous order, the Senate stands nesses, HUBZone-qualified businesses, adopted, it will cause significant dis- in recess until 12 noon in order to at- and other entities covered through the ruptions to small businesses across this tend a joint meeting of Congress. SBA programs, as well as the Javits- country, and I don’t wish to be part of Thereupon, the Senate, at 10:40 a.m., Wagner-O’Day Act, just to name a few. that effort. Small businesses make up recessed until 12 noon, and the Senate, Mr. President, in terms of Native 99.7 percent of our Nation’s employers preceded by the Deputy Sergeant at American funding, this provision would and 50.3 percent of our Nation’s private Arms, Drew Willison, the Secretary of essentially overturn the so-called ‘‘638’’ sector employment. Denying the abil- the Senate, Nancy Erickson, and the contracts whereby a tribe contracts ity of these small businesses to com- Vice President of the United States, with the Bureau of Indian Affairs or In- pete on a level playing field would se- JOSEPH R. BIDEN, Jr., proceeded to the dian Health Service or other agency to verely impact small businesses that are

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.008 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2735 already struggling to stay afloat dur- saying you authorized $15 million a reaucracy, whether it is private or pub- ing the current economic downturn. year for the next few years to do some- lic, grows over time, so businesses are Given the information we have thing and then have a chance to fund it looking for ways to be able to handle learned since this amendment was first and not fund it and say we didn’t need these tough economic times. proposed several weeks ago, and given to authorize the funding in the first Local governments and State govern- the fact the language before us does place. It is hypocritical, in my opinion, ments are forced to live within a budg- not take into account and address the and my hope is we will give great and et. So what are they doing? They are many problems raised after it was first concerted consideration to my amend- making tough choices right now. Even proposed, I encourage my colleagues to ment. with the money the Federal Govern- oppose this amendment. It is the least I yield the floor and suggest the ab- ment sent them, they are still having we can do for our small businesses, par- sence of a quorum. to make difficult choices, so they are ticularly given the economic crisis we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The looking for what wasteful spending is are currently in. clerk will call the roll. out there and what ways they can cut Mr. President, I yield the floor. The legislative clerk proceeded to back on waste. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- call the roll. The one place that seems immune to ator from Oklahoma is recognized. Mr. ENSIGN. Mr. President, I ask cutting wasteful spending is the Fed- AMENDMENT NO. 608 unanimous consent that the order for eral Government, and the people re- Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, I would the quorum call be rescinded. sponsible for that are right here in this like to speak a few minutes on the Em- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Chamber and in the Chamber across mett Till amendment that I have up. objection, it is so ordered. the Capitol. We control the purse We heard this morning from the Honor- Mr. ENSIGN. Mr. President, very strings. This is not a time for us to in- able Senator from Maryland, utilizing soon I am going to talk about an crease spending. This is a time for us the letter from the Attorney General amendment I want to offer on the DC to ask every Federal agency, depart- saying they would work hard in ap- Voucher Program for low-income kids. ment, program out there: How can you proving and working on the Emmett But first I want to talk about the bill save money right now? How can you Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act. in general for a few minutes. cut administrative costs? Which pro- However, the defense for not approving Yesterday, I talked about the spend- grams are duplicative? Which programs my amendment was the fact that the ing bill we have before us as being 8 are working and which ones are not? Justice Department is going to work percent over spending from last year Let’s take the money away from the hard on it anyway. on various programs that are contained programs that are less efficient right I would note for my colleagues that within the bill. now, let’s cut back on bureaucracy in- is exactly the opposite amendment We just had Secretary of Treasury stead of expanding the bureaucracy at that we had last year when we were Geithner before the Senate Finance this point. I would say this is really an trying to pass this bill, when it was my Committee. I asked him a question. I irresponsible moment for this Con- contention that we didn’t need addi- said: I applaud the President for gress. tional money and that the Justice De- hosting a fiscal responsibility summit I applaud two Members from the partment could do it. What we heard just last week at the White House. I other side of the aisle, Senator EVAN almost unanimously outside this think that was a great thing. It set BAYH and Senator RUSS FEINGOLD. Chamber is they couldn’t do it without some very important goals for us to be They have come out in opposition to funding. fiscally responsible to the next genera- this bill because they said pretty much So now we have an amendment that tion. I told him this administration the same things I was saying this actually puts in funding to go after had an opportunity to say these are morning. Senator EVAN BAYH from In- these perpetrators of these heinous last years bills, drafted under a dif- diana wrote a great opinion editorial crimes. Yet we don’t want to do it be- ferent administration. But rather, they today in the Wall Street Journal lay- cause now the very excuse we said said, we are going to look the other ing out why this is an irresponsible bill wasn’t good enough last year is good way; we are not going to hold to our and why he is going to be opposing it. enough this year. ‘‘no earmarks’’ pledge or fiscal respon- If we are going to care about our That is disloyal to the cause, No. 1; sibility pledge on this bill, we are going children and our grandchildren, we and, No. 2, it does not make any sense to do that on future things. cannot wait a year or 2 years. We need in light of the very statements made But the problem is, it is not just this to be fiscally responsible today. We by some of the very same Senators last bill that increases spending by 8 per- should have been doing it in the past year. cent. This bill gets added into the base- years as well. I agree there has been ir- The fact is, not funding this will line. This extra $23 billion gets added responsible spending in this body by make a real difference in the number of into this year’s baseline, which means both sides of the aisle and by the pre- cases that get brought to prosecution. that next year’s the baseline goes up vious administration, but that is no ex- We have a letter from the Attorney and the budget for the next year after cuse for us to say we can just continue General that says he will try, but what that goes up, and up and up, so this $23 it. we are talking about is giving him billion increase in federal spending Federal spending has been rising and more money so he does not have any ends up being several hundred billion rising, much of it off budget. I agree excuse for not trying—which lines up over 10 years. That is not what we with the Democrats when they criticize exactly with the reasoning behind the should be doing now. Republicans in the previous adminis- appropriations bills on almost every We have entitlements that are going tration for off-budget spending. I have other topic. to be exploding. Every family in Amer- been one of the people up here saying I say to my colleagues, having a let- ica today is looking for ways to cut the tricks we were playing with the ter which was generated last year in their budget. We are hearing that the budget on defense were dishonest. They my support for trying not to increase movie industry is actually doing pretty were trying to say they were not in- the funding—which was said that well right now because people are say- creasing spending because it would wasn’t adequate, that we needed funding: That is actually a little luxury I take money away from defense, knowing—now the fact that you refused to can afford, because they can’t afford ing it would be added on later so they fund something you promised to fund some of the bigger luxuries they want- could increase other spending bills. and say it will get done anyway does ed. Instead of buying cars or big-pur- That was dishonest. That was dis- not speak very well of our effort in chase items, they are buying smaller honest budgeting, and it is time to get that behalf. things. That is why Wal-Mart seems to to honest budgeting. It is my hope the Senate will look be doing well at this point. People are But it is also not just honest budg- hard and long at this. You cannot have looking for values. eting we need to get to. We need to get it both ways. You cannot say you need Businesses across the country are to fiscal responsibility. So really take to authorize funding, we need to have looking to cut expenses. They are look- a look at what we are doing here. funding, and send out a press release ing to cut wasteful spending. Every bu- Think about the next generation and

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.009 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2736 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 future generations. Do we really want I yield the floor. rected funding can decide how some of to add this kind of debt burden, where The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- that is spent. So it is not a constitu- they have to pay hundreds of billions of ator from Iowa is recognized. tional issue. It is not a constitutional dollars and even trillions of dollars in Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I come issue, at least as far as Congress goes, interest just because we were unwilling to the floor to speak in opposition to as far as directing where spending to take tough votes here in the Senate? an amendment offered by the Senator should be made. The second issue I wish to talk about from Oklahoma, who singles out two But I want to talk about these two is the issue of DC choice. The schools instances of congressionally directed earmarks mentioned, both of which ad- in Washington, DC, are some of the funding that were included in the fiscal dress significant needs both nationally worst schools in America. We brought year 2009 Omnibus appropriations bill and in my State of Iowa. I will talk this issue up last week, and we were under my name. The Senator has about the second earmark, funding re- able to get an agreement that, instead claimed that these earmarks are inap- search into swine odor and manure of having a vote on the DC voting propriate or wasteful and should be re- management later in my remarks. rights bill, the majority leader would moved from the bill. One provides $5.7 I want to say at the outset, I am give us time on the Senate floor to re- million for competitive school mod- proud of both of those earmarks or con- authorize the program. It is a program ernization grants in my State of Iowa. gressionally directed spending, and I that says for very low income kids in The other provides $1.8 million for na- stand behind them. I believe the Sen- the District of Columbia, we are going tional research into swine odor and ator from Oklahoma’s attempt to to experiment and see if maybe we can manure management at the Soil Tilth strike them from the bill is extremely give them a decent education. Laboratory in Ames, Iowa. shortsighted and misguided, quite The District of Columbia spends At the outset, as a constitutional frankly. around $15,000 a year per student on matter, I first take issue with the So let me spend a few minutes dis- public school education. We said we premise underlying the amendment of cussing why I included these items in will give them a $7,500 voucher towards the Senator, the idea that Congress has the bill. Let me start first with the $5.7 million for competitive school mod- the ability to go to a private school, a no business directing the expenditure ernization grants. For years I have ar- school of their choice. The number of of Federal moneys through congres- gued that the genius of our education people who want to get into this pro- sionally directed funding; that some- system in America is its diversity; gram is incredible. Why? Because DC how there is something inherently local school districts deciding what is schools are failing too many children. wrong or evil in this practice and that taught, what books to buy, what teach- DC schools are mostly made up of mi- only the executive branch should deter- ers to hire, how to run their schools. norities, and we are trapping those mine the details of where moneys are We do not have, as some other coun- very minorities into a school system to be spent. This stands the Constitu- tries have, a top-down structure where that by and large does not work. So the tion on its head. Article I, section 9, the central government decides exactly DC voucher system was put in to at expressly gives Congress the power of what is to be taught, how it is to be least take a few of those students out the purse, both to collect moneys—levy taught, and everybody gets the same and see if they can do better in a dif- taxes—and to direct where that money thing. I have been to those countries. A ferent setting. Does it work? Some peo- is to go. I would say that the Execu- lot of them tout their educational sys- ple say we are not measuring it right. tive, the President of the United tem. But, quite frankly, it does not All you have to do to know whether it States, does not have the constitu- have the kind of creativity and diver- works or not is to talk to the parents tional authority to spend one single sity and spontaneity that our diversi- and to the students who have been in- dime of our taxpayers’ money. That au- fied education has in this country. So volved in the program. Guess what. thority has been given to the Presi- that is the genius of the American sys- They want it to continue. As a matter dent, the executive branch, over the tem of education. of fact, they would like to see it ex- last 200 years by the Congress, but The failure of the American edu- pand. But what are we doing? This bill there is no constitutional basis for the cation system is how we pay for it. I all but guarantees its elimination. How President spending any money. So, wish someone would show me some- does it do that? If this language is not therefore, that is inherently a con- where in the Constitution where it says removed from the omnibus the pro- stitutional function of the Congress. At that elementary and secondary edu- gram would be effectively cut. The om- any moment, at any time, if we want cation in America is to be paid for by nibus contains language to eliminate to, we can pass legislation taking all property taxes. You will look and you the program after the 2009–10 school that money back here and saying the will not find it anywhere in the Con- year unless congress reauthorizes it President cannot spend a dime unless stitution. So why do we do it that way? and DC City Council approves it. We we say so. We do not want to do that, Well, I delved into the history of this, know where the votes are on the DC obviously. But we could. We would be and it kind of goes like this: In the City Council. The votes on the DC City in our constitutional right to do so. So early days of the founding of our coun- Council would kill the program. The there is not something inherently try, before we were a nation, in the teachers unions in the District of Co- wrong with Congress directing funding. Colonies, people wanted to have a free lumbia, as they are in most cases, are In fact, I would say it is more appro- public education. Well, it was free for totally opposed to any kind of voucher priate for Congress to do that than for white males at that time, but, nonethe- system. They believe it is a threat to the President. less, free. But since we had no taxing their power base. It is an odd practice—if the President system other than tariffs and property I am concerned about the kids and requests it in the budget, it is not an taxes, that was the only way they their education. That is all I am con- earmark, but if we put it in, it is an could pay for it. So tariffs and property cerned about. If this program is going earmark. taxes became the support mechanism to work—and it seems to be working Someone please tell me the logic of for local schools in the Colonies, and based on the interest of the number of that. So, again, I basically disagree that kind of continued on. It continued families who want in it and based on with sort of the underlying premise on. The tariffs went by the wayside, so the desire of the families who are in it that somehow executive branch em- then it became a property tax-based to continue in it—then that is what we ployees, all those bureaucrats, have a function for paying for elementary and should be concerned about. much better understanding of where secondary schools in America. The first I am going to be offering an amend- and how Federal funds should be spent time the Federal Government ever got ment that would strike the language in most effectively in our States and in involved in education in any way what- the omnibus bill and would allow us to our districts. soever was in 1864 with Morrill, the bill authorize it this year in the Senate. Now, again, over the years we have that Lincoln signed for setting up land That is the right thing to do, to make permitted that to happen, but we, grant colleges and universities. That sure these kids still have a chance to through our oversight functions, can was the first time, and that was only get a good education in the United look at how that money is being spent, higher education. That was higher edu- States. and through our congressionally di- cation.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.010 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2737 The next time the Federal Govern- is many years ago, back in the late There are kinds of pots. One pot is for ment got involved in education was al- eighties. And I have on my wall, right fire and safety, which requires no most 100 years later. It was after World by the door that goes out of my office, match. The other is for building and War II when we set up the GI bill to a framed piece of paper. It is a little or- renovation which does require a local pay for our young veterans to go to ange card. It has always been there. I match. college, and then that was higher edu- have always kept it there to remind me Now, I might say that since 1998 this cation. of something. It is my father’s WPA Federal funding has leveraged public Then we had the Eisenhower pro- card, when he worked on the WPA in and private funding so the dollars that gram, the National Defense Student the 1930s. have gone out there have multiplied Loan Program in the 1950s. Again, It occurred to me that when I was a tremendously. I think my colleague higher education. The first time the teenager, my father took me to visit called the funding unfair and wrong. He Federal Government ever got involved Lake Ahquabi, which is a lake south of believes it is unfair that Iowa’s schools in elementary and secondary education Des Moines, which is now still being receive funding while children else- was title I, providing some Federal used as a recreational lake. They built where in the United States are forced help to low-income schools to try to that; still being used today. to learn in antiquated, crumbling help right this imbalance out there. He took me to visit a high school, school buildings. Then we had the Education of the Cornerstone, WPA, 1940, that he had Well, I agree with my friend from Handicapped Children’s Act, which worked on; still being used today. I Oklahoma. He is correct in one respect. later became IDEA, the Individuals dare say there are schools all over There is indeed a persistent and unfair with Disabilities Education Act. So the America that are still being used, built disparity in the quality of schools Federal Government has not been in- by the WPA. Finally it occurred to me across the country, the savage inequal- volved—well, unless you want to take that perhaps one role the Federal Gov- ities, I just mentioned. Jonathan Kozol the School Lunch Program. The School ernment could take in helping to bal- wrote the book about it in the 1980s. Lunch Program and breakfast came ance these savage inequalities of rich In fact, for the last several years, along later, but the School Lunch Pro- areas versus poor areas in terms of the local spending on school facilities in gram, which came in after World War quality of the school facilities is to be affluent communities is almost twice II as a feeding program, not as an edu- involved in modernizing and building as high as in our poorest communities. cational program. I forgot to mention new schools and getting the technology So I ask the question again, why that. into these schools. That way you do should the circumstances of your birth, So the Federal Government’s in- not interfere with who is hired, who is where you are born and where you are volvement in elementary and sec- fired, what is taught, what textbooks raised, determine the quality of the ondary education has been as of late to buy. You are only helping to build school you go to? Why should it? So we and very small, only title I, and basi- new schools. We did that in the 1930s tried to alleviate this imbalance. Sure, cally IDEA, the Individuals with Dis- and we have been using a lot of these you want every State in the Nation to abilities Education Act. schools ever since. have this. As I said to my friend from Jonathan Kozol wrote a book in the So I might add, as an aside, that Oklahoma, he may not have heard this, eighties called ‘‘Savage Inequality,’’ when I sought the nomination of my in this year 2000, we did get it through and this was the savage inequality: party for President in 1991 and 1992, for every State. But that was only 1 What he talked about is how he trav- this was one of my platforms. I talked year, and then in 2001 the Bush admin- eled around America and how he found about the need to invest in the infra- istration came in and stopped it. But in there were some great schools and structure. I called it the blueprint for that 1 year, it did go out. great facilities in one place, and very America. On my document I had a pic- Now, again, and most recently in the bad schools with bad facilities in an- ture of a blueprint. Part of it was stimulus bill, in the American Recov- other place. He asked the question building and remodernizing schools ery and Reinvestment Act, we did in why. Why is this? Well, it was because through the Federal taxing system, the Senate put in $16 billion for school if you happened to be born and raised rather than relying on property taxes. construction and renovation to go out in Fairfax County, for example, where Well, I didn’t win the Presidency, ob- all over America. I was happy about there is a high income level and very viously, but I continued in that en- that. I thought this was something high property taxes, you get great deavor. I could not quite get it that would put people to work, stimu- schools. If you are born and raised in through, although we did have 1 year late the economy and build schools for Bedford-Stuyvesant, or in inner city finally we got it through. In 2000, the our kids, get new technology into our south Los Angeles, or in some rural last year of the Clinton administra- schools. areas of Iowa or Missouri or Oklahoma, tion, we got $1 billion for a national Well, because of opposition on that Kansas, chances are you got very low program of modernizing and helping to side, that was stricken from the bill. In property taxes and you got poor modernize schools. That was reduced the conference it was stricken. So, schools. down to about $800 million. It went out again, I do not mean to have this only So he asked the question, and then I 1 year. The next year President Bush for Iowa, I would love to do this for the asked the question: Why should where came in and the program got ended. So entire United States. you are born, the circumstances of we did have 1 year of it and, quite So again, if I could not do it there, at your birth and where you are raised, frankly, that 1 year, that money went least I wanted to see what would hap- why should that be determinative of out quite well and did a lot of innova- pen in the State of Iowa. And I can tell the quality of the physical school you tive, good things with schools all over you that over the years, each Federal have? Why should that determine it? America. dollar that has gone into my State for That is the savage inequality of our Since I could not get the Federal this has leveraged an additional $5-plus educational system. Government to do this in the broader additional from public and private Well, I began thinking about this basis, I decided to see what would hap- sources. some years ago on how we would kind pen in my State of Iowa if we started How does that happen? Well, a lot of of right this system, how we would doing this, what would happen, how times school districts would try to pass tend to solve this imbalance, on the would this work. So since 1998, I have a bond issue. They could not pass it to one hand by not interfering with the been fortunate to secure funding for renovate or something, because they genius of the American school system, my State’s schools in this regard. are poor people, you know, and this which is, who is hired and who is fired, The actual allocations are funds are means raising property taxes. We have who teaches, what they teach, the text- not made by me, they are made by the a lot of elderly in Iowa. Raising prop- books, all that, how do we not interfere Iowa Department of Education, which erty taxes is hard when they are on a with that, but at the same time try to undertakes a grant competition to se- fixed income. balance these savage inequalities. lect the most worthy and needy school So they don’t vote for the bond Then one day it occurred to me. I was districts that receive these grants for a issues. All of a sudden they applied for walking out of my office one day. This range of renovation and repair efforts. one of these competitive grants to the

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.012 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2738 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 Department of Education in the State lars to improve the school facilities within Safety Grants that we are able to keep our of Iowa. The State of Iowa gave them a the Clear Creek Amana District. facilities open and provide a safe environ- grant, but they had to match. Guess Having resources to construct new build- ment for our children to work and play in. ings allowed us to take advantage of the lat- what happened. They passed the bond The Harkin grants have allowed us to make est information regarding excellent school our buildings handicapped accessible, so all issue and built new schools. It has le- design. With the assistance of our architects children are given equal opportunity to at- veraged private involvement, people and engineers and the cooperation of stu- tend classes on the second and third floor of with businesses, endowments, and even dents, staff and community members we are our facility. The Harkin grants have created individuals who have come forward to confident that our new schools will provide an equal playing field so the children of our put money into local schools because improved learning environments for CCA district have the same safe environments as they had this grant. students and staff. A few of our design fea- wealthier districts. The Harkin Fire Safety I ask unanimous consent to print in tures include: increased student and staff ac- Grants have provided handicapped doors, fire the RECORD some letters I received. cess to technology; updated science labs and alarm systems, warning devices, and fire safe One is from Paula Vincent, super- equipment; flexible teaching and learning doors. Without these funds our school would spaces with planned areas for small and large intendent of the Clear Creek Amana have been closed down and children would group instruction; common areas for teacher have been forced to travel long distances to School District. She points out that re- teams to plan, and study together; shared other schools. ceipt of a school construction grant school and community spaces such as pre- I truly applaud your efforts in providing was instrumental in her district pass- school, library/media center, physical fitness these funds for schools. Considering all of ing a $2.5 million bond referendum to areas, before and after school space and the foolish ways the government spends build two new schools. Prior to receiv- shared gym space; and added safety features money, I can’t believe that anyone would ing the grant, her district did not have such as controlled building access with lim- want to end this program. The Harkin Fire a history of passing bond referendums ited exterior door entry points, electronic Safety Grants provide funds that are making door controls and sprinkler systems. a difference in the lives of children. What for school improvement. Not only did Again, federal support through the school this bond referendum pass on the first could be better? I encourage you to continue construction grants played a key role in the good fight for the poor people of Iowa. I vote, but it broke records for voter making these improvements to the overall encourage you to continue to fight the shift- turnout and has led to additional sup- safety and quality of the learning environ- ing of funds to ‘‘bail-out’’ private businesses port for school infrastructure from sur- ment in our schools possible. at the expense of our children and the future Federal school construction dollars also rounding communities. She estimates of this great nation. If there is anything I have a positive impact on environmental can do to help preserve these funds, please that an initial $100,000 grant led to an concerns. We were able to incorporate mul- let me know. On behalf of the Corning Com- additional $28 million in local funding tiple energy saving features into the design munity School District, the patrons of to improve school buildings. That is of the new buildings by participation in the Adams County, and most of all the children way over 5 to 1. That may be an anom- Commercial New Construction Program pro- of our district, we thank you for these funds. vided by the Weidt Group, Minnetonka, Min- aly, but that is what she says happened Respectfully, nesota, and funded by the local utility com- in their area. MIKE WELLS, panies. I have other letters from individuals Superintendent. on these grants and what it has done. The benefits of building an energy efficient There being no objection, the mate- building include a cash rebate from the utility companies of about $250,000 as well as DES MOINES PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM, rial was ordered to be printed in the lower operational costs for the lifetime of Des Moines, IA, March 3, 2009. RECORD, as follows: the new buildings. Many of the selected en- DEAR SENATOR HARKIN, As a member of the CLEAR CREEK AMANA ergy strategies also contribute to the quality Des Moines School Board I would like to COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT, of the learning environment (natural light- thank you for all the work you have done to Oxford, IA, March 3, 2009. ing, temperature controls in each class- enable our school system to receive Harkin Hon. TOM HARKIN, room). We believe these energy-efficient Grants. Without them our urban school dis- First Ave. NE, strategies add significant investment value trict would be lagging behind in both infra- Cedar Rapids, IA. to the buildings and minimize many negative structure and fire safety needs. DEAR SENATOR HARKIN, Thank you for your environmental impacts typically caused by The Des Moines Public School System is continual advocacy for facility construction new construction. an urban school district with a free and re- and renovation. As you know, Clear Creek We have experienced a significant benefit duced lunch rate above 50 percent. We have Amana was fortunate to receive one of the from a modest federal investment in school received a total of 8 Harkin Grants in the Iowa Demonstration Construction Grants to infrastructure. We have every reason to be- amount of $4.275 million dollars. We have aid in the construction of a new elementary lieve our students will benefit from the im- used the Harkin Grants in a number of our school. proved learning environment in our new buildings. For example, we have been able to This half million dollar Harkin grant was schools and we expect we will see some of use the infrastructure portion of the Harkin helpful to our district in successfully passing this benefit in higher student achievement. Grants to add to our renovations at Moulton a twenty-five and a half million dollar gen- Higher achievement by our nation’s children School, Capitol View Elementary and Carver eral obligation bond referendum to build two ultimately translates to a brighter future for Elementary. All three of these schools have new schools. In Iowa, school districts must all of us when these children take their place a free and reduced lunch rate over 79 percent. receive a super majority, sixty percent ap- as contributing members of the workforce The Harkin Grants have helped to bring 21st proval, to pass any bond issues. Our commu- and of the educated citizenry essential for a century buildings to students of all economic nity did not have a history of passing bond democratic society. backgrounds. Harkin Grants have also been referendums for school improvement prior to Thank you for your work in including used to help Des Moines East High School this latest attempt and had never passed a school infrastructure support in Federal leg- with its renovation expansion to meet the bond referendum on the first vote. Not only islation. needs of its urban population. We have also did the community approve the bond ref- Sincerely, received Harkin Grants for renovations at erendum on the first vote, but also broke PAULA VINCENT, one of our downtown schools. Without this previous voter turnout records. The federal Superintendent. funding our urban school district would be support was one of the factors members of lagging behind our suburban counterparts. our community listed as a reason they voted CORNING COMMUNITY SCHOOLS, in favor of the proposed bond referendum. Corning, IA, March 3, 2009. Our nearly 30,000 students have also be- The positive success of the bond ref- Senator TOM HARKIN, come safer at school through the fire safety erendum led to additional community sup- Hart Senate Office Building, component of the Harkin Grants. That por- port from cities within the school district Washington, DC. tion has been instrumental in allowing us to boundaries. For example, the City of North DEAR SENATOR HARKIN, With all due re- keep our children safer in a school district Liberty provided land for the new elemen- spect, I would like to express my concern that does not have the resources of many tary school, street and utility access to the about an amendment that has been offered suburban schools. They have helped to bring construction site and an additional half mil- to eliminate the Harkin Fire Safety Grants. our buildings to a superior level of safety. lion dollars toward the construction of the I am the superintendent of Corning Commu- In conclusion, as a board member of the new elementary school. Likewise, the city of nity Schools in southwest Iowa. Our school Des Moines Public School System, I would Tiffin and the Iowa Department of Transpor- is located in Adams County which is one of like you to know how important your Har- tation are partnering with the district to the poorest areas, of not only our state, but kin Grants have been in renovating some of widen the highway leading to the new high of the country. Our local patrons are willing, our high poverty schools and in keeping all school. Using conservative estimates, the but unable, to raise enough funds to main- our students safe. Programs like the Harkin half million dollars of federal support lever- tain our school facilities which were built in Grants have helped us immensely. You will aged an additional twenty-eight million dol- the 1930s. It is only through the Harkin Fire never know how much these grants mean to

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.014 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2739 an urban system like the Des Moines Public riculture Research Service originated and at the same time be good neighbors Schools. administratively within the U.S. De- and do it in an environmentally sound Gratefully yours, partment of Agriculture to conduct sci- way? That is what this money is for. PATTY J. LINK, entific research to address significant The research doesn’t only help Iowa it Director, Board of Education. challenges facing livestock agriculture. helps all across the country because it Mr. HARKIN. Rather than trying to This item is only included as an ear- is research conducted by the Agricul- deprive the schoolchildren in Iowa of mark now because the last Bush budget tural Research Service. They are doing this funding, I encourage the Senator proposed to terminate a number of on- it in Iowa because that is where most from Oklahoma to extend this program going agricultural research projects in of the hogs are. Congress didn’t origi- to his own State and to all other order to come in at a lower funding nate it here. It originated with the ad- States and the District of Columbia. In level, knowing full well this needed re- ministration. the coming weeks, I will reintroduce search would likely be restored by Con- A lot of States share the same prob- the Public School Repair and Renova- gress, which is what we are doing. But lem we do with odor and waste prob- tion Act, which I have been intro- it didn’t originate here in Congress. It lems. I suppose we will hear a lot of ducing for some time, which would cre- originated administratively. jokes on David Letterman and Jay ate a competitive grant program for Let me also point out to the Senator Leno. A lot of other people will be schools across America to receive funds from Oklahoma, this is not a project making jokes about this money for ma- to repair and renovate school facilities for the State of Iowa. It provides fund- nure. Keep in mind, this is not wasteful based upon the successful program we ing for the Agricultural Research Serv- or unnecessary or frivolous. This is have had in Iowa. Were some mistakes ice which is the main in-house research very important to the daily lives of the made in the beginning? Yes. But the arm of the U.S. Department of Agri- people of my State and every other Department of Education, over the last culture. The mission of ARS is ‘‘to find place where we raise swine. 10 years, has figured out how to do this, solutions to agricultural problems that I appreciate this opportunity to how to separate the two pots—one for affect Americans every day from field share with my colleagues my reasons fire and safety with no match require- to table.’’ for including these two items in the ments, one for buildings and innova- One might say the money is going Omnibus appropriations bill. I stand tion requiring a match—and then tak- out to ARS in Iowa. That is because here and say, unequivocally, I am ing in the proposals on a competitive that is where they do the research. If proud of both of them. I believe the ef- basis and deciding where the money ARS was doing research on peanuts, fort to remove them from the bill is should go. I encourage the Senator they would probably be doing it at an misguided. I urge colleagues to vote from Oklahoma to support this bill. I ARS research facility in Georgia. If against the Coburn amendment. ask him to be an original cosponsor to they were doing it on cotton, they I yield the floor. get this out to schools all over the would be doing it in Mississippi or The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. country. someplace not in Iowa. So why are HAGAN). The Senator from Oklahoma. Now let me also talk about the $1.8 they doing it in Iowa? Because one- Mr. COBURN. Madam President, it is million I secured in this bill for re- fourth of all the hogs in America are interesting, the first of the Senator’s search into swine odor and manure produced in my State. We are the No. 1 remarks had to do with the Constitu- management. That always brings a producer of pork, and we are very tion. He conveniently skipped over ar- smile to everyone’s face. David proud of it. The pork industry is crit- ticle I, section 8, and went straight to Letterman will be talking about it and ical to our State’s economy. But as the article I, section 9. If you read what Jay Leno will be talking about it, $1.8 demand has grown for pork and as we Madison and the Founders wrote about million to study why pigs smell. I sup- produce more pork, one can understand article I, section 9, they had a very pose that is the way they will couch it. that the management problems of what limited scope for what we ought to be We all know how the game is played. to do with the waste has become very doing. As a matter of fact, the trouble Critics will take something such as serious, not only for the odor problems we find ourselves in today is because this with a funny sounding name or but for the waste itself. we have abandoned the enumerated purpose, hold it up for ridicule. For At any given day, we have 20 million powers of the Constitution. We have some reason, especially outside rural hogs living in Iowa. Think about it, 20 excused them and we have said: We America, the very word ‘‘manure’’ million. A lot of farmers use the the should fund it all. seems to be cause for laughter and lev- manure from hogs as fertilizer. The De- As far as education, Federal funds ity and jokes. In farm country, manure partment of Agriculture, soil sci- fund 20 percent of education but 80 per- and odor management are profoundly entists, and others have encouraged cent of the problems. If you think our serious challenges that can be miti- that. But there can be odor problems schools are successful, look at our gated through scientific research. I and other environmental impacts. So scores compared to everywhere else in urge the Senator to visit farms in his that is what this research seeks to re- the world. Our scores started going own State. Ask his own farmers and solve. It looks at improving nutrient or down when the Federal Government neighbors about whether it is worth- feed efficiency in swine. This research started getting involved in education, while to conduct research into animal would help the livestock industry not prior. odor and manure management. make better use of co-products from The other assumption is, you have to If I am not mistaken—and I may be— the production of biofuels, which is a have a great building to have a great I believe the attorney general of Okla- growing industry in our State and the education. That is absolutely wrong. homa, a few years ago, brought an ac- Nation. Quite frankly, we can’t feed Education is based on the incentive of tion against the neighboring State of the byproducts to swine like we can the children, the quality of the teach- Arkansas in terms of some of the efflu- cows. They are not a ruminant animal. er, and the control of discipline. You ent coming into Oklahoma and this But this research is looking at how to can teach as well in a Quonset hut as raised questions of manure manage- improve those byproducts for swine— you can the most modern school, if you ment and how it is put on the land and everything from the feed to the byprod- have motivated kids, great teachers, such. That is what this research is ucts and odor—to improve the quality and great control of the classroom. about. Some people living in rural of life for those who live in rural areas. The purpose for trying to eliminate America are concerned about livestock We have had swine odor and manure these earmarks isn’t necessarily that agriculture and its environmental im- management challenges in my State. they are wrong. They are truly unau- pacts. So it makes good sense to fund And not only in Iowa; as chairman of thorized, but that would be a totally research that addresses how rural com- the Agriculture Committee, I have vis- different story if a group of peers had munities and livestock agriculture can ited North Carolina and have witnessed said these are priorities, but they coexist. the same issues there too. So how do haven’t. The problem is, is it a priority I wish to point out this item did not we alleviate this? How do we make it now, when every penny you will use, originate as a congressionally directed possible for a very good industry, the whether it is the new school program earmark. This research unit of the Ag- swine industry, to meet the demand you want me to cosign or the earmarks

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.019 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 you have in the bill today, is going to marks is to think about the long term 1939 and, with just a little bit more be borrowed from your grandchildren. rather than the short term, to think money, today is going to be used for The very schools you are going to about what is best for our country in another 50 more years for kids. So I build in Iowa, that we are not going to the long term, not what is best for us say, if we are going to borrow from our build in the rest of the country, by and how we look at home, and to do grandchildren, let’s build them better leveraging Federal dollars are going to what is within the framework of the schools so the kids today will be better be charged to the kids of the kids who Constitution. educated and will make more money are there. They are going to pay for it. The final point I will make: Presi- and so our grandchildren will be better It is not about whether it is right or dential earmarks ought to have exactly off. wrong; it is about whether it is a pri- the same dealing as we do with con- Lastly, my friend from Oklahoma ority, whether we ought to be doing it gressional earmarks—get them author- says that better buildings do not lead now. ized, put them in a list of priorities, to better schools. He said: You could The Agricultural Research Service is and then fund them. But do not send an learn in Quonset huts, you could have a a fine organization. Every time we earmark to the floor that is not au- better education in a Quonset hut, I need money for agriculture, we steal thorized by the Congress and the rel- guess, than in some of our better money from the Agricultural Research evant committee it comes through. schools. Well, I do not know how to re- Service. There is nothing wrong with With that, I yield the floor. spond to that. If you have a Quonset studying manure and its application as The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- hut, are you going to have the up-to- both a fertilizer, soil enhancer, and ator from Iowa. date, latest technology in terms of the other things. There is nothing wrong Mr. HARKIN. Madam President, I ap- Internet? Probably not. Are you going with studying the other aspect of the preciate the engagement by my friend to have up-to-date technology in terms odor. We slaughter 10,000 hogs a day in of a science lab? Probably not. Physics from Oklahoma on this issue. But I will one plant in Oklahoma. I know exactly lab? Probably not. Biology lab? Prob- point out, first of all, one little mis- what it smells like. I have traveled ably not. So what kind of education are take I think the Senator might have every farm area in my State. As a mat- you going to get in that Quonset hut? made. The research for the ARS for the ter of fact, to me a lot of it smells pret- If we are sending our kids to school in swine research is well within the au- ty good compared to what you smell in Quonset huts, what are we telling them thorization the Agriculture Committee the cities. But the fact is, is it a pri- about how we value education? I dare- provided in the farm bill. It is well ority that we spend that money now? say the nicest things that our kids within their purview. So it is not out- The real problem we have isn’t ear- should see in their daily lives ought to side their purview whatsoever. Again, I marks. It is two: One is, we give this be where they go to school. They ought document short shrift; No. 2, we have say the reason we put it in there: It has to be the brightest, the best lit, the become parochialized. We forget what been administratively asked for before, best built, with the latest technology, our oath was that we signed when we but the Bush administration in the last with the best teachers and the best ma- came in here, to uphold the Constitu- year did not include it because they terial. Then we are saying to our kids: tion, to do the right things for this wanted to cut down their request, Here is what we value. country as a whole in the long term knowing full well we would probably So I could not disagree more with my and do the best things we can for the fund it, which we have done here. But friend from Oklahoma that kids will future of the children who follow. But I just wanted to point that out. learn as well in a Quonset hut as they what we have turned into is what can Interestingly, the Senator mentioned can in a nice building. All you have to we take home; how do we look good at article I, section 8, of the Constitution. do is look at the test scores of kids home; how do we send Federal dollars Article I, section 8, of the Constitution, from schools that are in areas where home. I would point out, is very clear: they have high property taxes, a lot of The reason the stimulus bill was bad The Congress shall have Power To lay and wealth. Just look at those test scores is because we took the lack of fiscal collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, and look at the scores of the kids who discipline in this body and we trans- to pay the Debts and provide for the Defense come from your poverty areas and ferred it to every State house in the and general Welfare of the United rural areas. I do not mean just inner country. Ask any Governor what is States. . .; To borrow money on the credit of the city but rural poverty areas. Look at happening now that we have passed the United States;. . . . their test scores. That will tell you stimulus. The hard choices will not be something right there. Why? They can- Et cetera, et cetera. made in the States. So the future pros- not afford to hire the best teachers. Well, Congress—Congress, it says— pect for fiscal discipline in the States They cannot afford to pay more for has the power and authority to provide is now gone. The next time they have their teachers. They cannot afford to for the general welfare and to borrow problems, they will be counting on us. have the best laboratory and equip- money. I do not like to borrow money We have now transferred our bad habit ment and Internet technology for our more than anyone else. But the Sen- of being fiscally irresponsible to the kids. States. ator from Oklahoma said something So I could not disagree more with my I think it is ridiculous that at this about: Well, the money we are using to friend from Oklahoma. I believe one of time in our Nation, when we are going build these schools is borrowing from the most important things we can do in to have a $1.7 trillion deficit, we would our grandchildren. I cannot think of a the Federal Government is to provide spend the first penny on anything better thing to borrow from our grand- funds for the building and rebuilding other than a necessity because when children than to build better schools. and modernization of our schools all we have a $1.6 trillion deficit, it is not As I pointed out, my father worked on over America. As I said, I am sorry we just $1.6 trillion, it is $1.6 trillion we WPA. I have his WPA card hanging on are not doing it nationwide. We tried, are going to borrow over the next 30 the wall of my office. They built and we will try again. But it is the one years, and we are going to be paying schools all over America, schools which way we can help our local property tax- awfully high interest rates. It is not we are still using today. In fact, one of payers, help our kids—not interfere very long—2015—when we are going to the Iowa Department of Education with what they are taught or how they be at 40 percent of the budget going to grants went to a middle school—it used are taught or what teachers they hire interest. There will not be a Harkin to be a high school—it is a middle or what books they use. Let’s take a school program for Iowa in 2015 because school that was built by WPA and had page from what we did in the 1930s. there will not be any money. We will been in such disrepair, but the building Let’s do it again. Let’s build more not be able to borrow any more money itself was sound. They just had an old schools all over America and make because the interest rates and the cost heating plant. Kids were getting sick. them modern and up to date for our to borrow it will be too high because It was cold and drafty in the winter- kids so our grandkids will have a bet- the rest of the world will doubt wheth- time. They got a grant. They came in. ter life. er we can pay back the money. They put in a new geothermal heating Madam President, I yield the floor. So the prudence I am asking for in system. They put in double-paned win- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- trying to eliminate some of the ear- dows. Here is a school built by WPA in ator from Michigan.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.015 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2741 AMENDMENT NO. 610 the corner of Michigan and Trumbull, These are active aids to navigation. Mr. LEVIN. Madam President, right near downtown Detroit. So there The Presiding Officer knows how im- amendment No. 610 would strike from is now a new excitement, not only for portant that is. These lighthouses per- the bill funding for a number of the expectation of sports activities on form a vital function for Maine’s lob- projects. One of the projects which the field, where youth teams will come ster and fishing industries, as well as would be stricken is funding which I re- and play, but also for the adjacent for commercial shipping and rec- quested for the redevelopment of part commercial retail, sports training pro- reational boaters. They are critical ac- of old Tiger Stadium and its ballfield. grams, and other activities that will be tive navigation aids. It is in an economically distressed area attracted to the site. I would also note the American of Detroit called Corktown. I support According to the Housing and Com- Lighthouse appropriation is a direct in- funding of this project from the Eco- munity Development Act of 1974, the vestment in Federal property, a re- nomic Development Initiatives ac- Economic Development Initiatives ac- sponsibility that dates to 1789 when the count. The purpose of that account is count, which this is part of, will ben- first Congress extended Federal fund- for projects such as this. efit persons of low- and moderate-in- ing to lighthouses. This isn’t new. This Historically, old ballparks have been come and may be used for a number of isn’t something the Senators from demolished after Major League teams purposes, including the restoration and Maine dreamed up when we were trying move out. Members of the community preservation of historic properties and to come up with worthy projects. This in Detroit, where I live, recognized the for economic development to improve goes back to the beginning days of our economic development value in old the use of land for residential, commer- Republic. Tiger Stadium and its ballfield, so they cial, industrial, recreational, and other By working in partnership with the formed a nonprofit organization called needed activity centers. This project is Coast Guard, the foundation has been the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy to what the 1974 act had in mind because able to raise funds from the private help preserve a piece of this part of De- it reuses part of a historic structure sector. Over the past decade, the foun- troit and its baseball history and to which has been sitting vacant for a dation has invested more than $2 mil- help revitalize the economy of down- decade and maintains its historic field lion in restoring lighthouses through- town Detroit, because this is very close as a recreational and commercial cen- out New England, and in the process, to the downtown in an area called ter of economic growth in a low- to saved the Federal Government much Corktown. moderate-income neighborhood in the money by improving these sites with The conservancy has been working city of Detroit. private sector dollars. So this is a won- with the city, which owns the stadium. So I hope this amendment will be de- derful public-private partnership. It is This is a stadium owned by the city of feated. This is an expenditure that the kind of partnership we in Congress Detroit. They worked on a plan to pre- comes from an important fund called like to see and that we promote. serve part of this stadium—the original the Economic Development Initiatives So, again, let me make three points I part of the stadium, which had been account. That fund is going to be spent have to believe that the sponsor of this called Navin Field 140 years ago—and in any event, and I can think of a few amendment was not fully aware of: to do this for a number of purposes; other things which also should come First, that these lighthouses are feder- mainly, so that youth leagues would be out of that account, but this is surely ally owned; they are Federal property. playing on that field. one of them. I hope this amendment is Second, they house within them active That field and that piece of the sta- defeated and these funds are retained. aids to navigation maintained by the dium are a huge magnet for economic I thank the Chair and yield the floor. Coast Guard—the lights, the horn. development. So to preserve that The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- These active aids to navigation are field—that field of dreams—and to re- ator from Maine. used by our fishing industry, our develop that part of the stadium’s Ms. COLLINS. Madam President, I lobstermen, by commercial shippers, structure and the adjacent land and to rise to speak in support of funding in by recreational boaters. These are ac- use the adjacent land for retail shops, this bill for the American Lighthouse tive lighthouses. Third, this is a public- restaurants, and other commercial and Foundation. This allocation was rec- private partnership. The foundation entertainment attractions will bring ommended to the Appropriations Com- raises millions of dollars from private economic activity into a distressed mittee by Senator SNOWE and by me. sources to help restore these light- neighborhood and into the city of De- Now, I can understand why those who houses that contain aids to navigation troit. are unfamiliar with this program used by the Coast Guard. Thus, the Now, it was said yesterday, I believe, might view this as an easy target. That burden is shifted from the Federal Gov- that it did not make sense for this fund is why I have come to the floor to ex- ernment to the private sector, and that to preserve an old stadium we are not plain to my colleagues, who may not be is extremely helpful. going to do anything with. That is just familiar with this program, why it is So I think this is a great example of simply not accurate. There is huge in- important and why it warrants Federal why it is important that those of us terest by developers in this old piece of support. who are sponsoring this funding come Tiger Stadium and the field it is part The nonprofit American Lighthouse to the floor and explain it. I think of. Part of this old stadium has been Foundation in Rockland, ME, partners when that is done, it casts a whole new demolished, demolished by the city, so with the U.S. Coast Guard to protect, light on the purpose of this funding and what is left is a piece of this stadium, restore, and preserve federally owned why it deserves Federal support. essentially between first and third historic lighthouse properties. Let me Madam President, I yield the floor. base. This field and this piece of the repeat that. These are federally owned, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- stadium is nothing short of an anchor and I wonder if the sponsor of this ator from Hawaii. for the economic development project amendment understands that is the AMENDMENT NO. 623 that will bring much needed jobs to a case. Mr. INOUYE. Madam President, I part of the city that desperately needs The Coast Guard leases lighthouses wish to speak on amendment No. 623, them. The conservancy has already re- to the American Lighthouse Founda- an amendment submitted by the Sen- ceived a number of letters of interest tion in an effort to help support res- ator from Oklahoma, because it is most from local organizations and financial toration because the foundation raises troubling for several reasons. institutions expressing the desire to private funds that help to relieve some First, this amendment presumes participate in the redevelopment, to of the burden that otherwise would fall guilt without the benefit of the full bring commercial operations into the on the American taxpayer. legal process. Second, it presumes that remaining stadium structure and the The three Maine lighthouses that the 14 clients actively or knowingly neighborhood area. will directly benefit from that fund- participated in the alleged activities of For too many years, economic devel- ing—Owls Head, Pemaquid Point, and the firm without any evidence to sup- opment in this area has been stymied Wood Island—are maintained by the port that assumption. Third, the because of the unpredictable status of U.S. Coast Guard as active aids to amendment will punish the clients for what was to happen to this property at navigation. Let me repeat that point. having funds allocated to their projects

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.025 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 without any knowledge of wrongdoing. meet request funds for projects per- coup funds depending on the cir- Fourth, it makes the assumption that taining to my State of Hawaii. But as cumstances if our legal system deter- Members requested these projects be- do most Members of Congress, I seek mines laws were broken. Funds can be cause of ties to the lobbying firm rath- funding only for ones which I believe rescinded and improper payments can er than because these projects ad- will have the greatest benefit for my be recovered by the agencies involved. dressed the needs of their constituents. State and for its citizens and which Finally, the agencies have their own The last thing we in this body should hold the greatest promise for achieving rules and regulations to follow if they do on matters such as this is rush to a larger national objective. This is believe there is any impropriety in- judgment. Yes, we know the firm was what we were elected to do—to serve volved. We should allow the legal proc- raided by the FBI, and we also know our constituents. ess to work and then assess an appro- the firm is in the process of being dis- Why do we presume guilt in this in- priate response based on the results. banded, but we also know no one from stance instead of innocence? Why do we We should not convict the clients and the firm has been convicted of any assume wrongdoing by clients because Members and enact punishment before crime. In fact, as far as we know, no they hired this lobbying firm? Why we even know whether a crime has one has even been indicted for a crime. should we assume Members requested been committed. Therefore, I urge my Further, there is nothing to suggest funds because of the efforts of the lob- colleagues to oppose this unfair amend- that the clients themselves are being bying firm instead of the merits of the ment. investigated, much less guilty of some programs? I suggest the absence of a quorum. Federal offense. There has been abso- I can’t speak personally of any of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Will the lutely no indication by anyone in- these projects because most of them Senator withhold his request? volved in the actual investigation that were included by the House and agreed Mr. INOUYE. I am sorry. Yes, I with- any of the clients of the PMA firm to by our subcommittees, but I do be- hold. were involved in any illicit activity. lieve most Members act responsibly. I, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Under our legal system, everyone is for one, am willing to give the Mem- ator from Kansas is recognized. presumed innocent until proven guilty, bers who sponsored these projects the Mr. BROWNBACK. Madam President, but under this amendment we will pre- benefit of the doubt that they did so I thank my colleague from Hawaii, sume such guilt. We will presume guilt because they believe the projects were with whom I have had the great pleas- even of those who are not under inves- meritorious and worthy of their sup- ure of serving in this body, for with- tigation. It is not the responsibility of port. I am not willing to presume our holding that request. the Senate to presume guilt. That de- Members are guilty of wrongdoing be- I come to the Senate floor today to termination should be left to the cause their constituents hired some address the Omnibus appropriations courts based on evidence presented by lobbyist who might—and I emphasize bill, as well as to address one of the Federal investigators. the word ‘‘might’’—have been engaged major needs of a major industry in our Our ‘‘evidence,’’ however, is based on in some illegal activity. State. press reports. But even in this most Do any of us seriously believe the I would ask my colleagues to think questionable evidence, there has been Members who sponsored these pro- about this for a second: If there was a no assertion that the clients were in- grams in their States and districts did business in the United States they volved in any type of criminal activity so for any reason other than it bene- knew about that contributed annually and certainly none has been accused of fited their constituents or they be- around $150 billion to the U.S. econ- any wrongdoing. Nonetheless, the lieved in the work the clients are en- omy; employed 1.2 million people, amendment would deny funding for gaged in? For every Duke Cunningham mostly in the manufacturing sector of projects included in this bill by Mem- willing to trade earmarks for cash, the economy; is a major export driver bers of the House and the Senate. The there are 534 other Congressmen and with 40 percent of their production—40 projects were approved by the relevant Senators who would never think of percent of this $150 billion going to subcommittees and displayed publicly doing such a thing. I do not believe we overseas sales, contributing to the on the Internet. should impugn the motives of the economy, contributing as a multiplier, Rather than assuming guilt, what we Members who sponsored these ear- and a significant multiplier—to the should assume is that Members who marks, and I can think of no reason to economy, I think most people would asked for these projects did so because do so. say: What is the business and how do they believe they will serve the needs I recognize this is what we call a we support it? How do we move it on of their constituents. We have no infor- tough vote. Many Members might wish forward in these tough economic times, mation that indicates that funds were to vote in favor of this amendment be- if the business is having a great deal of recommended for these programs because they fear the news spot that says difficulty? The one major thing they cause of the efforts of any lobbying they supported crooked earmarks. But are asking from the Government now is firm. We can’t even say with certainty my colleagues should understand if we not to badmouth them, not to talk the funds were included at the behest don’t stand up for this institution—the them down. It is to be positive about of this particular lobbying firm. I Senate—and its Members, no one else this business instead of being down. So would point out that the Senator from will. We should all recognize the next of all the businesses we have coming to Oklahoma must also not be so sure time this could be your earmark or us asking for money, for support and since he has modified his amendment mine. You could be the one standing on grants and these sorts of things, we to remove one of the projects which he the Senate floor forced to defend your- have one that is a major industry, an originally had on his list. self because someone is accused of exporter, and a major manufacturer. Are we seriously considering voting wrongdoing, even though that matter They want us not to badmouth them to cut funds for projects because we is completely unrelated to your behav- anymore. We should be able to comply think they might—they might—have ior. with that request, and we ought to. been related to a firm which is under This is actually a simple matter. I am talking about the general avia- investigation, even though the There is no evidence to support wrong- tion industry, which is this $150 billion projects’ advocates are not under in- doing by the Members involved. There industry, flying 1.2 million people, pri- vestigation? is no evidence to suggest these projects marily in the manufacturing sector. It As do many of my colleagues, I meet are not meritorious. There is no evi- is a major exporter that is growing but with lobbyists every year—dozens of dence to suggest the clients who en- is having enormous difficulty in this them. They seek hundreds of millions gaged in these projects did anything economic and global climate because of dollars in earmarks in appropria- wrong. so much export was going overseas. tions bills. I am not the only Member Finally, we cannot be certain anyone Federal officials are making fun and in this situation. Incidentally, the firm engaged in any wrongdoing. This saying people should not fly on these is not a Hawaiian firm, although the amendment sets a course down a slip- business aircraft; they should not use projects involved are Hawaiian. For the pery slope that is unnecessary. Federal these things. They are making it a most part, the lobbyists with whom I laws already provide remedies to re- matter of derision.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.026 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2743 The industry is simply asking us not see this. Behind every discussion, you the bottom of national assessment in to do that; help us out, don’t talk us have the people who make the aircraft. the Nation. Recent data shows that 69 down, don’t hurt us. The industry is ap- Most people who see this aircraft prob- percent of fourth graders in the DC preciative of the bonus depreciation ably say there is probably somebody public schools are reading below basic that was put in the stimulus package, well-to-do inside. But more likely it is levels. DC students ranked last in the and I am also appreciative of that. I an engineer, a salesperson or a techni- Nation in both SAT and ACT scores. hope it can help. It doesn’t help when cian. These are the people building it. Forty-two percent of DC students drop the President and others say people are This is a Hawker 4000. It is a great air- out of school compared to 31 percent disappearing on private jets and flying craft that came out. I will show an- nationwide. around the country. other aircraft. These are made in Wich- People fudge with figures and say it I think it is helpful to present a few ita, with a lot of suppliers from the en- doesn’t mean this or that, but what facts on the actual situation and say tire region and the country that are you have are 1,700-plus students who who actually uses business aircraft and going into making these aircraft. have opted to use a scholarship to get where they go. Eighty-six percent of These are some of the volunteers, the into a private school that they are very the passengers on business aircraft are employees working here, volunteering happy with, that they are performing not company senior officials but in- in the community and this is from the well in, and that the parents are happy stead are mostly midlevel employees, Christmas season and this is soccer. with, rather than the DC Public School including salespeople, engineers, and Here are some of their products. I will System that, by and large, is not serv- other technical specialists. These com- show another one as well, so people can ing students well, and the longer you panies have operations in a number of get an idea of who all is involved in stay in that system, the poorer you are different places. They can’t get into this picture. This is the rollout of an doing. Most representatives, Congressmen convenient commercial airports, and aircraft, a Cessna. This is the celebra- and Senators, who have children and they use business aircraft to get these tion of the rollout of the first Sov- grandchildren in DC don’t send their people back and forth between various ereign jet. You can see in the picture children to public schools. As a matter sites very efficiently. the people involved in this. of fact, I don’t know if anybody in this A lot of my colleagues don’t realize I hope my colleagues will take note body does. Yet we consign people who there are some 5,000 airports nation- that when they use a cheap shot to say don’t have the income ability to get wide, but only 500 are served by com- we should not have these guys using out of the DC public system into a mercial airlines. So 10 percent are business aircraft, 90 percent of your school system that has failed students. served by commercial airlines and the airports would not be accessible if peo- A number of efforts are being made to other 90 percent are not. How do you ple were not using these. These are exchange this system. I applaud the ef- get in and out of all the other 90 per- perts getting to various operations. forts by the mayor’s office and the su- cent, other than by using business air- The corporations would be far less effi- perintendent of schools, Michelle Rhee. craft—whether it is propeller or jet? cient, and they would lose the connec- But if you are in the system, these They are what ends up connecting a lot tion for people to be able to make it to changes are taking time to make and of people on a rapid basis throughout medical services that are critical in you don’t have time when you are the country. That is important for peo- some places in the country. There is a going through the first, second, third, ple to realize. Without the use of a lot lot of good this business does, and it is and fourth grades. Each year you are of business aircraft, you are going to a business dominated by the United losing ground. have much more inefficiency in compa- States. We need to support it, not hurt Here is a group of students who have nies, a lot more difficulty getting peo- it. found a way to get into a better situa- ple from point A to B. Finally, on an amendment I hope tion. We should not take that away. It In a lot of cases, you have emergency comes up on a separate issue in the omis wrong for us to take that away. I situations where you have business air- nibus bill, there is a sunsetting of the know they believe it is wrong to take craft moving people who are very sick DC scholarship program. I raise the that away. I urge my colleagues to not from one place to get them to a critical point to my colleagues that this has let this program be sunsetted but to re- hospital; it gives them access. Behind been a very successful program, with a establish it. I would like to see it ex- all this and the numbers I am talking strong support base from the people panded so more students could take ad- about, you have a bunch of people who are using it and a desire to con- vantage of it as well. working for these companies. tinue to use it. I think we ought to I yield the floor. I will show you some pictures of peo- continue it rather than sunset this par- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ple in my State. I am proud of the ticular program. ator from Hawaii is recognized. work they do in business aircraft. This In the omnibus bill, the opportunity AMENDMENT NO. 608 is King Air by Beechcraft. The assem- scholarship program is sunsetted un- Mr. INOUYE. Madam President, may bly line is back here. I have been in less there is reauthorization that takes I associate myself with the comments these factories a number of times. It is place. Hopefully, that will occur this of the chair of the Commerce, State, an interesting and cool business. It is year, and reauthorization will occur. Justice Subcommittee regarding the one a lot of places around the world are Listen to who is participating in this amendment proposing an earmark for trying to steal from the United States. program, and if it is sunsetted, who the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights The Japanese, the Brazilians, and cer- cannot continue to participate. The av- Crime Act. tainly the Chinese are trying to take erage annual income of the people par- Make no mistake, no one in this this manufacturing business from the ticipating was around $22,800, far below Chamber is interested in denying fund- United States. We are the center of the eligibility level for this program, ing to resolve unsolved civil rights business aviation and of the construc- which is 185 percent of the Federal pov- cases—no one. But what we are inter- tion of these planes for the world. As erty level or $39,000. The actual number ested in doing is passing this bill as you might guess, it is a high-wage, is $22,736, and that is the average an- quickly as possible, so that the Depart- high-skill manufacturing field. It is a nual income of the people partici- ment of Justice has the necessary and great business. Consequently, you have pating. Just over 1,700 students are par- adequate funding to pursue these cases. a number of other competitors trying ticipating in the program. They are This amendment slows down that to break into this field at the same trying to get into schools that are bet- process. This amendment earmarks $10 time our Government is talking down ter for their kids because the DC Pub- million with existing funding for the this business in the United States. The lic Schools have not served them well. Weed and Seed Program, which is an workers in my State who are making The DC Public Schools’ per pupil ex- authorized competitive grant program these great quality aircraft are saying: penditure is the highest in the country under title I of the Omnibus Crime and Just don’t talk bad about us. at $15,000. The DC class size is one of Control and Safe Streets Act, which I have some other pictures I wish to the lowest in the country; it is a 14-to- funds communitywide strategies to re- show you of other people in this busi- 1 student to teacher ratio. Yet reading duce violent crime, drug abuse, and ness. I want individuals to be able to scores continue to languish near or at gang activities.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.028 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 This authorized program has nothing percent unemployment at this time. If He says there is money in the bill for to do with resolving unsolved civil we go backward, as Senator MCCAIN is the Great Park in Orange County. But rights cases. Yet this amendment takes suggesting, and other colleagues, if we what he doesn’t say is there is funding almost half the funding in one author- go backward to the continuing resolu- in here, and it is not that much funding ized program designed to combat vio- tion approach where we ignore every- compared to a lot of these items— lent crime and gang activities and ear- thing that has happened, then we have $475,000 to restore the El Toro Marine marks it for a different program that a budget for this year that is irrelevant Corps Air Station hangar No. 244. This already has millions in funding avail- in many aspects. hangar was opened in 1943 to house air- able for this effort. Why do I say that? In this particular craft during World War II. The hangar I am confident this administration’s omnibus bill—which I am sure has is being renovated. It is being turned Department of Justice will be using its flaws, because nothing in life is per- into a military history museum and a resources to solve as many of these fect—we do address the housing crisis. welcoming center for the park. cases as possible. In this omnibus bill, we do give the This particular $475,000 is not going The Department of Justice has at its SEC, the Securities and Exchange for anything other than the renovation disposal $123 million provided for the Commission, the funding it needs to of this hangar to bring it back to life, Civil Rights Division, $151 million in move against these Ponzi schemes and to serve as a tribute to our veterans funding to reduce the backlog of un- these frauds that are being perpetrated and to their military service. It will be tested DNA evidence, and $30 million on the people. In this bill, we do more on the site of what used to be a leading for State and local governments to infor education. We do more for health military installation on the west coast. vestigate and prosecute civil rights care. In this bill, we step up to the best Millions of U.S. military personnel violations. of our ability to address some of these during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, These are just a few of the many au- problems. and the Cold War passed through El thorized civil rights-related programs We know that if any of these amend- Toro. This base reuse project honors for which the subcommittee chair has ments are adopted, it is going to weigh our military history and the service provided increased funding for the fis- this bill down because the House has and the sacrifice of our military men cal year 2009. acted and said basically: This is last and women. This is not the first time my Repub- The best way to fund initiatives of year’s business; we don’t want to get lican friends have gone after veterans. the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights bogged down with it. Either take it or I had another funding request. We were Crime Act is to pass this measure—the leave it. That is where we are. able to win that one, and we will win underlying measure—now and send it As I have said often on this floor, we this one, too. I believe it. They were to the President for his signature. The usually do not have a chance to get the going after a program to help disabled amendment of the Senator from Okla- perfect bill around here. It is very dif- veterans get back to a normal life. homa detracts from that effort, while ficult to get the perfect bill, unless They actually did that. But we beat providing no overall benefit. each of us wrote it his or her own way. them then, and we will beat them now. I yield the floor and suggest the ab- Then it would be perfect for us. The hangar needs a number of repairs sence after quorum. Clearly, there are issues with this and upgrades to make it suitable for The PRESIDING OFFICER. The bill. But I want to say again, if you public use. This deals with the upgrade clerk will call the roll. were sitting with your family and you of electricity, fire safety systems. And The assistant legislative clerk pro- went back to last year’s budget and all 100 jobs will be created. Not bad. Mr. ceeded to call the roll. of a sudden you realized that in the President, 100 jobs will be created Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask last 12 months, things had radically through the rehab of this building, and unanimous consent that the order for changed in your family—let’s say you another 10 to 20 full-time jobs will be the quorum call be rescinded. had a child who got sick with a terrible created to staff the facility when it is The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. disease, let’s say that your grandma built. CARDIN). Without objection, it is so or- had to go into a nursing home and she Here is the thing. Orange County, in dered. needed certain things—you would real- which this particular project resides, is Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I think ize that last year’s budget does not fit a Republican county. Registered Re- it is a good time to take stock of where what your requirements are. You publicans outnumber registered Demo- we are on this bill and to give my would have to address your child’s crats by 235,000 voters, and they voted thoughts and feelings to my colleagues health, your grandma’s situation to be for this project 58 to 42 percent in an on why it is so important to get it done relevant for the year. election where 500,000 votes were cast. and move it swiftly. It doesn’t always mean spending Yet I have a Senator who comes on the The bill that is before us is unfin- more money. I am not suggesting that floor and tries to say this is some frivo- ished business. It is an Omnibus appro- at all. But this omnibus bill does re- lous, horrible project. I resent it, and priations bill that finishes up the fund- spond to the needs of our people. Put so do the veterans resent it. ing for this year. The reason we are in that together with the stimulus bill, I ask unanimous consent to have this situation is for a variety of rea- which is finally beginning to bear fruit printed in the RECORD a series of let- sons, including an election, and the ap- out there—and I am excited about it ters from veterans very concerned propriations bills did not get done. because we are starting to see the fund- about Senator COBURN’s amendment. Some of them did, but most of them ing flow to our States, we are starting There being no objection, the mate- did not get done. This bill wraps them to see people get back to work. Once rial was ordered to be printed in the up in a package, and here is where we we do this, it is another boost to the RECORD as follows: are. We have two choices: Either we people of our great country. MARCH 3, 2009. pass this bill the way it is or we go These amendments that are coming Senator BARBARA BOXER and MEMBERS OF back to the continuing resolution at us at the end of the day, I believe CONGRESS. which takes us back a year and a half many of them are meant to weigh this DEAR SENATOR, I am taking this oppor- ago. bill down, to take this bill off course. I tunity to formally thank you for all the suc- It is very important for us to con- cess Orange County has experienced with the am going to talk about a couple of redevelopment of the former Marine Corps sider that point because a year and a those amendments. Air Station El Toro. If you had not taken a half ago, life in America was very dif- Senator COBURN has an amendment leadership role in helping the Orange County ferent. A year and a half ago, we were for he says, the worst projects in the voters decide the future of the surplus mili- not in the jam we are in now economi- world—whatever he calls it. He is going tary property at El Toro, I am certain our cally. We did not see homes being lost after them. And one of those projects aspirations for a Great Park at the site at such a rapid rate. We did not see un- that he picks is one I was proud to get would not have materialized. Now, as the Orange County Great Park employment figures going into the dou- in here. So I want to talk about it be- Corporation’s lead sponsor for the develop- ble digits in some of our States, includ- cause I am proud of it. The way Sen- ment of a heritage museum honoring the ing California, which I am so proud to ator COBURN describes it, you wouldn’t contributions of our community to the de- represent, my State. But it has over 10 know what I did. fense of this great country, I must seek your

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.029 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2745 support once again. In the creative scheme tion and ease of access is an ideal location Hangar 244 is an original hangar from the to preserve an in-tact 1943 vintage U.S. Ma- for a historic landmark. I stand behind your 1940s and the last remaining historic hangar rine Corps squadron area, including two lo- initiative to renovate hanger #244 at MCAS at the Great Park. It must be renovated and gistics buildings and a squadron administra- El Toro and wish that your funding returns preserved to not only preserve the building tion-headquarters facility, and a historic with due speed. but also the heritage of five decades of serv- hangar (hangar #244) our corporation seeks Regards, ice to our nation’s defense. . . . federal funds to help defray renovation costs. DAVE RISTOW, He says: The veterans and civilian employees who Chief Financial Offi- worked, transited, or were stationed at cer, KSS Retail On October 2, 2008, the Orange County MCAS El Toro would be the primary bene- Great Park Corporation conducted an ‘‘El ficiaries of your successful efforts. We will LTCOL CLIFTON WALLACE USMC (RET), Toro Homecoming’’ event which honored incorporate the restoration of the subject Irvine, CA. veterans from World War II that were stationed at [this base]. Several hundred WWII buildings into an education program for Re: MCAS El Toro Hangar #244. local students—least we allow history to be veterans attended this historically impor- MEMBERS OF CONGRESS: I would like to tant and emotional tribute conducted in forgotten. publically add my emphatic support for the My heartfelt request comes to you not Hangar 244 resulting in rich memories and project to renovate Hangar 244 at the former only from a retired U.S. Marine Corps avi- moving stories by the men and women who Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California ator, citizen activist with a twenty year ex- served our nation during this time of great now the Orange County Great Park. I served perience defending the voters rights to de- need. I strongly encourage support for the as a pilot at MCAS El Toro from 1977 until I cide the former MCAS El Toro’s final design Hangar 244 renovation project and strongly retired from the Marine Corps in 1999 and and use, but, also from my experiences as a request that the funds [be there]. feel it is extremely important that Hangar Director at the Orange County Great Park 244 be renovated and restored to its histor- That is one. And this goes on veteran Corporation and as a Commissioner of the ical condition. after veteran. Senator COBURN comes California State Parks and Recreation Com- Hangar 244 is an original hangar from the to the floor and talks about the Great mission. 1940s and the last remaining historic hangar Park and the free balloon rides that Our heritage museum needs your resolute at the Great Park. It must be renovated and the kids have there. What does that support at this critical point in time. Please preserved to not only preserve the building present this message to your fellow member have to do with this line item that but also the heritage of five decades of serv- turns this hangar into a museum for of Congress. ice to our nation’s defense. The Great Park Respectfully, intends to build an aviation/heritage mu- those who put their life on the line? I ILLIAM GUSTAV W seum at the site and Hangar 244 will be a his- will say, Senator COBURN has gotten KOGERMAN, toric center piece for this new museum. them so riled up and so worked up and LtCol USMC (Ret); Di- On October 2, 2008, the Orange County so upset. For what reason? None that I rector, Orange Great Park Corporation conducted an ‘‘El can see. County Great Park Toro Homecoming’’ event which honored So here is a circumstance where we Corporation; Com- veterans from World War II that were sta- missioner, State have a line item our veterans want. tioned at MCAS El Toro. Several hundred One of them talks about visiting Eu- Parks and Recre- WWII veterans attended this historically im- ation Commission. portant and emotional tribute conducted in rope and saying how much more the Hangar 244 resulting in rich memories and Europeans have preserved these memo- MARCH 3, 2009. moving stories by the men and women who ries of their fighting men and women Re: Renovation of Hangar #244 at MCAS El served our nation during this time of great compared to our country and he begs Toro. need. I strongly encourage support for the Senators not to strip this out. MEMBERS OF CONGRESS: I have recently Hangar 244 renovation project and strongly Here we have a circumstance where been informed that funding for the renova- request that funds for this project be re- Senator COBURN is saying I have a line tion of hangar 244 at the Great Park has been stored. item that is about ‘‘the Great Park,’’ Semper Fi, withdrawn. This is a travesty. MCAS El Toro but he does not say what the purpose of once stood as an American symbol of free- CLIFTON WALLACE. dom, providing a sense of security and an the line item is: to restore the hangar abundance of opportunity for surrounding COL THOMAS Q. O’HARA USMCR (RET), and turn it into a military museum communities. It would be a shame to allow Lake Forest, CA. and a visitor center to celebrate those the last remaining hangar standing at the CEO Orange County Great Park, who have given so much to our Nation. Great Park to fall rather than serve as a re- Irvine, CA. Then we have another amendment by minder of the service this once great post SIR, I would like to express my whole- Senator MURKOWSKI. What she wants to served to the residents of Orange County and hearted support for the renovation of hangar do is go back to the bad old days of the Southern California. #244 at the former Marine Corps Air Station Friday night midnight rules that the I strongly support the renovation of hang- El Toro, CA now the Orange County Great ar #244. Park. I served at MCAS El Toro in the 1960s, Bush administration took at the very JOHN ROTOLO, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s and feel it extremely end of their days here. The midnight GySgt USMC (Ret). important that hangar #244, an original rules were put in place and ran rough- hangar from the 1940s, and the last remain- shod over the rights of the public to Both while in the military and since, I ing historic hangar at the Great Park be ren- participate in the rulemaking process. have traveled abroad. As a nation, we have ovated and preserved to not only preserved The language in the bill goes back to done very little relative to our European the building but also the heritage that over the status quo ante. In other words, it counterparts to preserve historic treasures. five decades of service to our nation is rep- goes back to before the Bush adminis- This persistent desire to upgrade and update resented by that last hangar. The Great Park leaves our society at a historical disadvan- intends to build an aviation/heritage mu- tration issued its midnight rules. tage. Our society quickly forgets our roots seum at the site and hangar #244 will be a On December 11, 2008, almost 35 years and those who have fought to preserve them. historic center piece for the new museum. I to the day after the Endangered Spe- As a result, the patriotic nature of our soci- strongly encourage support for the renova- cies Act became law, and after the Re- ety has been damaged because we’ve under- tion project and hope funds for this project publicans lost the election, the Bush funded the preservation of sites such as are restored. administration issued a midnight rule Hanger #244. Semper Fi, which allows Federal agencies to de- This past January, I was in the UK and vis- TOM O’HARA. cide unilaterally that consultations ited Winston Churchills’ Museum and Cabi- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, here is net War Rooms (http://cwr.iwm.org.uk/). This with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a fine example of how preserving historic one letter. It is to Members of Congress or the National Marine Fisheries Serv- military locations can communicate to the signed ‘‘Semper Fi, Clifton Wallace.’’ ice are not necessary when there is any masses, the greatness of the military and its He is a retired marine. He says: type of development proposal. That ability to produce such leadership. The peo- I’d like to publicly add my emphatic sup- midnight rule made a mockery of the ple that I was with that day expressed great port for the project to renovate Hangar 244 process we are supposed to follow. pride in their country, what they stood for at the former Marine Corps Station El Toro, According to press reports, a Depart- and the military’s accomplishments. California now the Orange County Great As a former Sergeant in the USMC sta- Park. I served as a pilot . . . from 1977 until ment of Interior e-mail indicated the tioned at MCAS Tustin, I had spent consider- I retired in 1999 and feel it is extremely im- Fish and Wildlife Service received able time at MCAS El Toro. Geographically, portant that Hangar 244 be renovated and re- 300,000 comments on the proposed rule. I would suggest that MCAS El Toro’s loca- stored to its historical condition. The agency reviewed 200,000 of these

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.011 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2746 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 comments in 32 hours. This is an aver- polar bear. Oh, no, the Bush adminis- down, and I hope we will vote down the age of 6,000 comments every hour. Let’s tration said, we are going to deny key Murkowski amendment because if you face it, Mr. President, I don’t care how protections for the polar bear under vote for her amendment, friends, what many people you had looking at these the Endangered Species Act. So they you are saying is the process should be comments, it is not possible that they unilaterally decided by a rule that the truncated; that it doesn’t matter who could have reviewed the outcry from only thing that will apply to the polar the President is—President Obama. all over the country. bear is marine mammal protection, not In other words, if you vote for this as Now, who agrees with me? Dozens of the Endangered Species Act, and the a process, you are saying to this new groups. I am going to read some of the Bush administration put in this special President: Well, we support your being groups that said: No, don’t do this. Yet rule without any notice or comment. able to just decide whatever you want; they did it anyway: They simply decided they wanted to to ignore the public comments, ignore The Audubon, American Rivers, Arizona eliminate the ESA’s protections for the the scientists; just get up and do what- Wilderness Coalition, Californians for West- polar bear, and once again they ran ever you want at midnight. I think ern Wilderness, Center for Biological Diver- roughshod over the process. that is wrong, and I don’t care if the sity, Defenders of Wildlife, Endangered Spe- So in this omnibus bill, this is all we President is Republican or Democrat, cies Coalition, Friends of Red Rock Canyon, do. We say let’s go back to regular we shouldn’t do it that way. It isn’t the Friends of the Missouri Breaks Monument, order. Let’s go back to the status quo Grand Canyon Wildlands Council, the Trust right way to do it. for Public Land, the Wilderness Society, ante. Let’s go back to the way it was So I hope we will take a stand Union of Concerned Scientists, World Wild- before these midnight rules were against that kind of government, and I life Fund, Partnership for the National passed. I am very disappointed we have hope we will take a stand in favor of Trails System, Natural Resources Defense to vote on this because I think it is a my veterans. I hope we can, in fact, Council, Oregon Natural Desert Association, matter of common sense and pride in pass this bill and get on with our busi- National Trust for Historic Preservation . . . the place we work. We need to follow a ness because the option is to go back to I am not reading them all, Mr. Presi- process. a bill that was written—basically, it dent, so I ask unanimous consent to It has nothing to do with how one goes back to the old budget, before we have printed in the RECORD the entire feels about the polar bear. Frankly, I had all the problems we have now. I list. am heartbroken when I see what is think it is looking backwards. I think There being no objection, the mate- happening to the polar bear. Other peo- it is putting our government in reverse rial was ordered to be printed in the ple may not be moved by it, may not be at a time when we need to move for- RECORD, as follows: touched by it. But it doesn’t matter ward with confidence. I believe passing Audubon, American Rivers, Arizona Wil- how one feels about the polar bear. this bill is an important part of what derness Coalition, Californians for Western What matters is that we stand for the we need to do this week. Wilderness, Center for Biological Diversity, laws we passed in this great country Mr. President, I yield the floor. Cienega Watershed Partnership, Defenders of under Republican and Democratic ad- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Wildlife, Earthjustice, Endangered Species ministrations, and the Endangered ator from Arizona. Coalition, Friends of the Agua Fria National Monument, Friends of Red Rock Canyon, Species Act was one of those. If we see AMENDMENT NO. 623 Friends of the Desert Mountains. it isn’t working, we can take steps, but Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I rise to Friends of the Missouri Breaks Monument, let’s not shortcut the process. So I briefly discuss the amendment that has Friends of the Sonoran Desert National hope we will oppose the Murkowski been proposed by the Senator from Monument, Grand Canyon Wildlands Coun- amendment. Oklahoma, Mr. COBURN, to prohibit cil, Grand Staircase Escalante Partners, Again, not everybody will agree with funding for PMA-related earmarks. Idaho Conservation League, International me the polar bear deserves protection A lot of Americans don’t know who Dark-Sky Association, League of Conserva- under ESA. Not everybody will agree tion Voters, National Parks Conservation PMA is, Mr. President. In fact, I didn’t Association, National Trust for Historic with me that before a permit is granted until recently, but it is very inter- Preservation, National Wildlife Federation, there ought to be consultation with esting. The Coburn amendment, by the National Wildlife Refuge Association, Nat- Fish and Wildlife. Frankly, I think way, would strike 13 projects where ural Resources Defense Council, Oregon Nat- that is a very modest and moderate po- funding is directed to clients of the ural Desert Association. sition to take and a commonsense posi- PMA Group, a lobbying firm currently Partnership for the National Trails Sys- tion. But don’t support an amendment under Federal investigation for corrup- tem, Rincon Institute, San Juan Citizens Al- which just says: To heck with what the liance, Scenic America, Sierra Club, Sky Is- tion. land Alliance, Snake River Raptor Volun- public says. We don’t care. It doesn’t Today, we have before us a massive teers, Soda Mountain Wilderness Council, matter. Cut it short. Remove the En- omnibus spending bill totaling nearly Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, The dangered Species Act. Remove the con- $410 billion that contains over 9,000 ear- Trust for Public Land, The Wilderness Soci- sultation process. That is not a way to marks. Perhaps even more troubling ety, Tuleyome, Union of Concerned Sci- go, and especially for the Bush admin- than the number of earmarks is to entists, World Wildlife Fund. istration to do it after the election, on whom and how some of this funding is Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, you have one of those late-night announcements. being directed. Contained within this the Bush administration, after they Let’s give this administration a chance legislation are 13 earmarks totaling lost the election, take this step, not to take a look at both of these rules, over $10 million directed to clients of even looking at the peer-reviewed sci- take a look at making sure the sci- the PMA Group. entific evidence. The CRS—the Con- entists are listened to, the public is lis- Mr. President, the PMA Group is a gressional Research Service—said tened to. lobbying firm that was recently forced there appears to be little additional So, again, in closing, I want to say to close its doors after the home of its protections by this act. this in summing up. Senator COBURN owner and offices were raided last No- So they had two of these midnight has attacked the veterans in my State vember by the FBI for suspicious cam- rules. One dealt with the consultations by calling a line item in this bill one of paign donation practices. That inves- they are supposed to have with envi- the worst projects in this bill. He actu- tigation continues to this day. ronmental agencies before permits are ally did. The veterans in my State are Well known for its deep ties to Cap- given; the second one had to do with up in arms, and I put the letters in the itol Hill, the PMA Group has a long the polar bear. The Bush administra- RECORD and I hope we will vote against and lucrative history for securing ear- tion determined that the polar bear is the Coburn amendment. The way he marks for its clients, including ap- a threatened species, and we all know, has presented it is so unfair to my vet- proximately $300 million in the fiscal just from a little bit of reading or erans. He talks about free balloon rides year 2008 Defense appropriations bills— watching TV, that the polar bear is en- and the Great Park. The funding here none of them authorized, by the way— dangered or, I would say, certainly is simply to refurbish a historic hang- $300 million. threatened because the ice habitat is ar, the only hangar at El Toro that can There have been many accusations melting literally under their feet. The be preserved to remember these vet- against the PMA Group, including Endangered Species Act applies to the erans. So I hope we will vote that using straw donors to further spread

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.032 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2747 their wealth to curry favor with influ- in reports to the Federal Election Commis- 19 noted another curious statistic from ential Members of Congress. A Feb- sion. the PMA Group’s financial disclosure ruary 14, 2009, Washington Post article ‘‘It’s up to the campaigns to report con- forms. Somehow during the course of tributions in their FEC filings,’’ said PMA examined campaign contributions re- spokesman Patrick Dorton. the last four election cycles, PMA’s po- portedly given by members of the PMA FEC spokeswoman Mary Brandenberger litical action committee reported ex- Group and found ‘‘several people who said she has not often seen such penses of $18. Now, I have heard of busi- were not registered lobbyists and did misidentified donations, but if a complaint nesses trying to cut overhead costs, not work for the lobbying firm,’’ in- were received, the commission would first but spending $18 over 8 years doesn’t cluding a 75-year-old California man question the campaign about its record- pass the smell test. keeping. I don’t use the word ‘‘corruption’’ who, despite being listed in financial Jan Witold Baran, a campaign finance and disclosure documentation as a donor ethics expert and Wiley Rein lawyer, said the lightly, Mr. President. I don’t. But we and PMA employee, had never even errors pose serious questions and should be have seen the abuses of the appropria- heard of the firm. cleared up. tions process before, and we obviously Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- ‘‘It’s true that candidate campaigns have haven’t learned. Whether it was Jack the responsibility for disclosure, but the in- sent to have printed in the RECORD Abramoff bilking millions of dollars formation they obtain usually comes from that complete article. from numerous Indian tribes or Duke the contributor or the person who solicited Cunningham steering high-value de- There being no objection, the mate- from the contributor,’’ Baran said. ‘‘The rial was ordered to be printed in the question is: Where did that information fense contracts to firms that curried RECORD, as follows: come from?’’ his favor through bribes and extrava- [From the Washington Post, Feb. 14, 2009] Murtha aide Matthew Mazonkey said the gant trips around the world, we have a congressman was not the recipient of the er- broken system that breeds this sort of DESPITE LISTING, DONORS DON’T WORK FOR roneous donations. behavior. FIRM BEING PROBED PMA, founded in 1989 by Magliocchetti, a Let me remind you there are former (By Carol D. Leonnig) former Murtha aide to the House Appropria- Members of Congress and staff mem- Marvin Hoffman is listed in campaign fi- tions Committee, has enjoyed a high success bers who now reside in Federal prison. rate in winning earmarks for its clients, nance records as one of the many lobbyists The allegations against the PMA with the powerful PMA Group donating which include such major defense contrac- money to lawmakers. But Hoffman is a soon- tors as Lockheed and General Dynamics. Group are serious and troubling, and to-retire information technology manager in PMA also represents a circle of lesser-known we in Congress should treat them as Marina del Rey, Calif., who has never heard but also successful contractors such as such. How in the world do we approve of the Arlington lobbying firm or the Indiana Argon ST, MTS Technologies, DRS Tech- 13 earmarks that were obtained by a congressman to whom he supposedly gave nologies and Advanced Acoustic Concepts. group that has been raided and shut $2,000. Many PMA clients have opened offices in down by the FBI? How do we tell the ‘‘It’s alarming that someone is stealing my Murtha’s western Pennsylvania district, do- American people we did such a thing— nated generously to him, and received mil- identity somewhere,’’ Hoffman, 75, said in an $10 million and over $300 million in last interview. ‘‘I’ve never heard of this com- lions in earmarks requested by the congressman. year’s Defense appropriations bill? pany.’’ Mr. President, the American people, Another contributor listed as a PMA lob- In the last election cycle, PMA and its cli- byist is, in fact, a sales manager for an in- ents donated $775,000 to Murtha’s campaigns. sooner or later, are going to hold us ac- flatable boat manufacturer in New Jersey. Last year, those clients received earmarks countable. Why should we approve ear- John Hendricksen said he did make cam- worth $299 million and arranged by Murtha marks from an organization that is paign donations but never worked at PMA and his colleagues. clearly in violation of numerous laws, The majority of PMA’s 35 lobbyists had and does not know how he ended up listed in worked on Capitol Hill or at the Pentagon. including having the FBI raid them records that way. Several of the top lobbyists were also PMA and shut them down? They have all These errors, along with other unusual do- directors and had ties to lawmakers. said they are no longer in business any- nations linked to the firm, come as the Jus- Two men listed in campaign finance re- more, and clearly there are people list- tice Department examines allegations that ports as together giving $30,000 to lawmakers ed in campaign finance reports—and I PMA may have violated campaign finance and being part of the PMA Group team are laws. The offices of PMA, which ranked last will quote again from the Washington not Washington lobbyists at all. They live Post article: year as the 10th-largest Washington lobbying and work in the Florida resort community of firm by earnings, were raided in November Amelia Island, where PMA founder . . . giving $30,000 to lawmakers and being by FBI agents and Defense Department in- Magliocchetti has a beachfront condo- part of the PMA Group team are not Wash- vestigators. minium. Both are listed as directors of PMA. ington lobbyists at all. They live and work Federal investigators are focused on alle- John Pugliese had been a sommelier at the in the Florida resort community of Amelia gations that PMA founder Paul posh Ritz-Carlton Hotel on the island, his Island, where PMA founder Magliocchetti Magliocchetti, a former appropriations staff- family said. Jon C. Walker is in charge of has a beachfront condominium. Both are er close to Rep. John P. Murtha (D–Pa.), may golf marketing at the neighboring Amelia Is- listed as directors of PMA. have reimbursed some of his staff to cover land Golf Club, according to club personnel And the article goes on and on, Mr. contributions made in their names to Mur- and its Web site. They each donated iden- President. tha and other lawmakers, according to two tical amounts to the same lawmakers, in 12 ″John Pugliese had been a sommelier at sources familiar with the investigation. PMA installments each, almost always on the the posh Ritz-Carlton Hotel on the island,’’ has long had a reputation for securing ear- same date. his family said. John C. Walker is in charge marks from congressional appropriators, Walker and Pugliese did not return re- of golf marketing at the neighboring Amelia particularly for defense contractors, and it peated phone calls and messages. Island Golf Club, according to club personnel Pugliese is listed as a PMA Group ‘‘asso- has donated generously to influential mem- and its Web site. They each donated iden- ciate,’’ and Walker is a PMA Group ‘‘consult- bers of Congress. Magliocchetti personally tical amounts to the same lawmakers, in 12 gave $98,000 in campaign donations last year, ant’’ in finance records. Rebecca DeRosa, who is listed as a part- installments each, almost always on the according to campaign records. same date. Federal election laws limit the amount of time accountant at PMA and director, recently married Magliocchetti and has given I will talk some more about this be- money individuals may contribute to can- fore this is over because the American didates, but lobbying firms often show their generously on PMA’s behalf for several clout by collecting and bundling contribu- years. Last year alone, she personally gave people are beginning to figure it out. tions. It is illegal for employers to reimburse $73,000 to lawmakers and congressional polit- The American people are rising up in donors for their contributions. ical action committees, records show. For strenuous objection to this kind of The Washington Post examined contribu- most of those donations, she is listed as a process, with 9,000 porkbarrel earmark tions that were reported as being made by PMA employee. Her donations included projects on them. Some of them are of PMA employees and consultants, and found $22,000 to the Democratic Congressional value. Some are not. We do not know several people who were not registered lob- Campaign Committee and $4,250 to Rep. James P. Moran Jr. (D–Va.). because it did not go through the au- byists and did not work at the lobbying firm. thorization process these projects need It is unclear whether the donors DeRosa did not answer her phone or re- misidentified as PMA associates are part of turns calls to the Gaithersburg office of the to go through to be properly vetted and the federal probe. DRS subsidiary, where she is listed as an em- authorized by the authorizing commit- A PMA spokesman said the firm’s manage- ployee. tees. ment does not know Hoffman or Hendricksen Mr. MCCAIN. An article from the We are not through with this bill, I and does not know how the errors were made Congressional Quarterly on February am happy to say. I will be talking a lot

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:05 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.033 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 more about it, and the American peo- every authorization is perfect, but (The remarks of Ms. LANDRIEU are ple are talking a lot more about it. those things that were debated openly printed in today’s RECORD under There have been some statements made in the appropriations committee—tes- ‘‘Morning Business.’’) that I am angry. I am angry, but I am timony given, evidence in support of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- not nearly as angry as the taxpayers some of these programs—are all put in ator from Missouri is recognized. are. I am not nearly as angry as the sort of a subcategory? I resent that. (The remarks of Mrs. MCCASKILL people who see that we are going to This is a balance between authorizers and Mr. UDALL of Colorado pertaining give $10 million in earmarks that were and appropriators. It always has been to the submission of S. Res. 63 are lo- obtained by a company, a lobbying out- and probably always will be. What we cated in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- fit, that has been raided and shut down need to do is get back to a balance, mission of Concurrent and Senate Res- by the FBI. which was completely out of whack olutions.’’) I urge my colleagues to vote in favor when the Republicans were in charge of Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Presi- of the Coburn amendment to remove at the budget process. As Democrats are dent, I suggest the absence of a least the $10 million from this trying, with some of our colleagues’ quorum. porkbarrel bill that was obtained support, to get a handle on this situa- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The through an organization of question- tion, I think the public is at least clerk will call the roll. able credentials, questionable donors, pleased that we are moving in that di- The legislative clerk proceeded to and certainly—according to the FBI, rection. We do have a ways to go. I cer- call the roll. having shut them down—being people tainly will admit that. With the leader- Mr. DORGAN. I ask unanimous con- who do not deserve to be able to have ship of Senator INOUYE, I think we are sent that the order for the quorum call $10 million of the taxpayers’ dollars. making some progress. be rescinded. I yield the floor. AMENDMENT NO. 596 The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- On the Coburn amendment No. 596, I objection, it is so ordered. ator from Louisiana is recognized. rise in opposition to it. It is a difficult AMENDMENT NO. 596 Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I amendment to oppose because on its Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, we will come to the floor to speak against face it seems as if it makes a great deal vote this afternoon on a number of Coburn amendment No. 596, not the of sense. In fact, there was a strong amendments to the Omnibus appropria- amendment Senator MCCAIN was vote for it on another bill. But I rise in tions bill. I want to comment briefly speaking to, and also to put some per- opposition on this point alone: The on one of them, and that is the Coburn sonal remarks in the RECORD in a few amendment calls for everything in the amendment No. 596. That amendment minutes. I understand some of my col- bill to be competitively bid. On its presumably requires competitive bid- leagues are here to speak as well, but face, it sounds like the right thing to ding procedures to award contracts. since I am on the floor, I would like to do. Most people do put contracts out That is a subject for which I have very make a comment about PMA. for competitive bid in the private sec- strong support. I am all in favor of I do not know PMA. I don’t know the tor. But there are any number of times competitive bidding. I am tired of see- organization. But the Senator from Ar- the private sector does not do that. In ing sole-source contracts and contracts izona certainly knows there are proc- the public sector, there are any number that go to special companies. I have esses and ways to get at this other of reasons—whether it is special intel- held 18 hearings on the subject of con- than amending this bill, which has a ligence procurement; whether it is in tracting in Iraq. I have seen the most very tight deadline and is very impor- the small business sector; whether it is unbelievable waste, fraud and abuse tant to all of the agencies of this Gov- programs that reach out especially to that has ever happened in the history ernment. veterans where there are certain new of this country. So sign me up as some- He raises some legitimate points. He technologies that have to be sole- body who believes in competitive bid- is angry. Many of us are angry about sourced and not competitively bid— ding and contracts. But let me make this process that has gone too far. But there are any number. The Senator the point that this amendment goes may I remind my colleague from Ari- from Oklahoma knows that very well. way beyond the goal of requiring com- zona that this Democratic-led Congress He is actually on the Homeland Secu- petitive bidding in support of saving has reduced the number of earmarks by rity Committee and, I believe, the sub- the taxpayers money. This amendment 50 percent, has made every single one committee that has jurisdiction. Mr. does something much more than that. transparent, has gone through an open President, you and I serve on that com- This amendment—because it has not and public process, and none, to my mittee with him. There is a way to go come through a committee and is not knowledge—on the testimony of the about narrowing or making sure that the product of a committee hearing— chairman of the committee who is on most of the Federal procurement is people don’t understand. For example, the floor now—has been put in at any done through competitive bid. Not on it would set back 30 years of progress time in a closed-door conference ses- this bill. Not this day. Not at this with respect to Indian communities sion, which was done routinely when time. and tribal governments where we have the other side was in charge. While it is It is not as if there are not some good pursued something called Indian self- not perfect, while investigations must arguments, but that is the problem determination. The approach for self- continue to go on and people must be with these amendments. They are not determination on Indian reservations held accountable, the Senator from Ar- here to try to change and reform, con- is to allow those tribal governments to izona knows he is not the only one trary to what the others talk about. access some of the funds in the pro- angry, he is not the only one helping to They are here to stop, to delay, to de- grams designed explicitly for tribal lead this reform effort. President rail, to cause something to fail. They governments dealing with housing, Obama himself has done a great deal of are not here in a constructive way. health care, education, and law en- work on this subject, and we will con- That is why I am urging my col- forcement. This amendment would es- tinue to. leagues to oppose Coburn amendment sentially deny them opportunities to The second point I would like to No. 596, to vote down the McCain and access those funds and move them off make as an appropriator and one who others amendments that have been of- into a completely different process. It does have directed spending in this bill fered—not because they do not have undermines the whole notion of self-de- is that since when did every author- some kernels of truth in what they are termination for Indian reservations. izing committee turn out to be perfect trying to do, but this is not the time to I know that is not what was intended in their authorization language? Since do it and this is not the bill. by the author. I know that is not what when did every bill that goes through Finally, because I know my colleague was intended. But we should not, in every committee come out to a perfect from Missouri is here to speak, and any event, here in the twelfth hour, end? We have a long list of bills and au- others, I wish to take a moment, if I consider amendments that have not thorization programs that did not may, to pay tribute to a young man been the part of any hearing I am work, that were ineffective. So since who worked for me for many years—ac- aware of. We should not pass legisla- when is it appropriate to come and say tually, for 12 years. tion that would have the consequence

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Senator MCCASKILL for taking on both This progress is moving towards self- If America wants to know how well bi- parties, senior Members in both par- determination on Indian reservations partisanship works, you can look at ties, on this earmark issue. where tribal governments are able to earmarks because when it comes to But the real issue now comes back to access those funds explicitly to best wasteful spending, there is great bipar- leadership in our country, and is there use them to benefit their tribal govern- tisan agreement here in the Congress anyone in Washington with the power ment. that as long as we get our pork, as long to change this who is willing to take We have the most significant pov- as we get our political projects we can on the issue. My hope has been since erty, unemployment, health care crisis, take back home, then we will vote for the last election that while I know I and homelessness anywhere in this whatever is in the bill no matter how will disagree with President Obama on country on Indian reservations. Many big it is. a number of things, it was my under- of them are living in Third World con- Senator MCCASKILL, though rel- standing and my hope he would keep ditions. Health care is being rationed. atively new to the Senate, has been his word on fighting earmarks. He cer- It ought to be front-page news. Forty willing to take on not just my party tainly talked about it during his elec- percent of the health care needs for but her own in fighting this root cause tion. American Indians is unmet. We have of much of the wasteful spending in He said, in April of 2008: We can no kids and elders dying because the Washington. So I commend her very longer accept a process that doles out money isn’t there to provide adequate much for coming to the floor, not just earmarks based on a Member of health care. The same is true with re- today but many other times. Congress’s seniority rather than the spect to education and housing. We She has worked with me on several merit of the project. have tried over the period to begin earmark-related bills. She supported a He said, in October of 2008: We need moving in the direction of self-deter- 1-year moratorium on earmarks, which earmark reform, and when I’m Presi- mination in which, rather than have then-candidate Senator Obama flew dent, I will go line by line to make sure someone in some agency decide how back to vote to suspend earmarks for a we’re not spending money unwisely. But, last week, his Budget Director tribes must address their housing or year so we could look at ways to re- said: This omnibus we are talking health care issue, self-determination form them so we would not continue about this year is last year’s business. for tribes allows them to begin to use this pattern of very wasteful spending. I honestly believe the reason we are We just need to move on. that funding to best address their So I guess this week we have sus- looking at trillion dollar bills today is needs. I don’t think anybody wants to pended the Presidency, we have sus- because of this whole earmarking proc- upend the program. That wouldn’t pended hope and change, and we have ess. This $400 billion Omnibus appro- make any sense. We don’t want to have gone back to nearly 12,000 earmarks. priations bill we are considering this a circumstance where we subvert Senator MCCASKILL said: Do not take progress that we have made in recent week, I am convinced would be voted anyone seriously who says one thing years on self-determination for Indian down if the leadership on both sides and does another. That is the worst sin tribes. had not sprinkled earmarks for about of all. This is only one issue. I am sure every Member of the House and the What I am afraid of, at this point in there are dozens with respect to this Senate. It is a way to pass bills that the new Presidency, is that the only amendment. I couldn’t support an otherwise would not pass. change that has occurred in Wash- amendment that, while it sounds good, I do need to correct one thing Sen- ington is the change with the President has significant, unintended con- ator MCCASKILL mentioned, which is himself. This is an issue he said he sequences for the first Americans. The this idea that since the Democrats would help us on. This is an issue he first Americans were here to meet us, took over the majority, they have cut said he knew was a core problem of they are those who now live in substan- earmarks in half. I wish that were true, waste and corruption here in Wash- tial poverty, and those for whom legis- but, unfortunately, it is not. If you ington. This is not a Republican or lation dealing with self-determination look at this chart I have in the Cham- Democratic issue. Neither party can sit has tried to help by moving in a dif- ber, earmarks have grown under bipar- down here and say they are righteous ferent direction. We should not under- tisan agreement for years. in this. But both parties need to come mine that. We should not in any way As we came into 2006, we began—sev- to the understanding, the realization, injure that approach to try to improve eral of us in the Senate and the House that this earmarking process is de- life on American Indian reservations. were putting increasing pressure on stroying our whole work as a Congress. That is not the intent of the author, both sides to cut the number of ear- You see, what this has done is this but I know that will be the con- marks, and they dropped a little bit. has trained the American people to be- sequence. But this lower figure here, as shown on lieve that our purpose here in Wash- I hope my colleagues will join me in the chart, came as the Republicans had ington is to take money home to our voting against the amendment. lost the majority in the election but States and congressional districts. It is I yield the floor and suggest the ab- had not yet given up the majority in teaching the American people that we sence of a quorum. that January. A number of us held use earmarks as a reward to help those The PRESIDING OFFICER. The back an omnibus bill with thousands of groups and organizations that helped clerk will call the roll. earmarks in it, and we ended the year us get elected. Or we use taxpayer The legislative clerk proceeded to 2007 with less earmarks than we had money to bail out people who have call the roll. had in almost 10 years. been irresponsible in their decision- Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I ask But, as you see, under the Demo- making. unanimous consent that the order for cratic majority, it is already back to But what we have forgotten is that the quorum call be rescinded. the second highest number, counting our constitutional oath is to defend The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. this omnibus we are talking about this and protect the Constitution of the MERKLEY). Without objection, it is so week with over 9,000 new earmarks United States of America, not to get ordered. which are totally unnecessary, totally projects for our district. But what ear- Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, it was against the things that have been said marking has done has perverted the great to hear Mrs. MCCASKILL, the Sen- in the last election, that in 2009, at whole purpose of this Congress. Instead ator from Missouri, speaking on the least counting as of this week, we are of working on fixing a Tax Code that is floor. She has been a real champion of nearly at 12,000—the second highest in destroying our economic base in this fighting one of the real causes of excess history. So neither party can boast we country, and overseeing our financial spending and waste in Washington. She have done anything significant about system to keep it from financial col- came down to talk about earmarks. In earmarks. lapse, and fixing Social Security and this case, she was talking about Repub- As America looks in, they are becom- Medicare so we can keep our promises lican earmarks. I congratulate her being increasingly outraged at this fla- to seniors, and defending our country cause we have to go after them all. If grant waste we are shamelessly in- by funding the military properly—in- there is one thing in this whole Con- volved with every week. So I commend stead of doing that, we spend most of

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In this omnibus bill or ominous bill— I would encourage the President to Enacting this amendment would roll whatever you want to call it—it is hard threaten a veto of this bill, to follow back years of Small Business and In- to read the list and then think about through on a veto of this bill, and dian Affairs Committee authorizations the rhetoric of how treacherous these make this Congress send this bill back by requiring that all contracts be times are, how difficult they are, and to committee and do the things Amer- awarded through just one specific sec- that every penny we spend of taxpayer ica needs instead of the things we want tion of one specific law. money has to go to help our economy politically to help us get elected in our Small businesses employ more than and help the American people. next election that is coming up. half of our country’s private sector What does $1.8 million for swine odor I wish to thank, again, the Senator workforce. If we pass this resolution and manure management research have from Missouri, Mrs. MCCASKILL, for and deny these small businesses the to do with these difficult times we are bringing up this issue and having the ability to compete on a level playing in, or $200,000 for a tattoo removal vio- courage to fight both parties on a very field, we will be severely impeding our lence prevention outreach program, or important issue to our country. country’s desperately needed job cre- $75,000 for a Totally Teen Zone where Mr. President, I yield the floor. ation engine. people can play Xbox? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Congress has authorized a number of Folks, if I read this, it is only going ator from Hawaii. procedures over the years to help small to make you madder and madder and Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, on be- businesses, veteran-owned businesses, madder. This is a mix of Republican half of the leadership, I ask unanimous minority-owned businesses and tribal and Democratic earmarks. You would consent that the Senate now proceed to enterprises gain access to government hear a lot of Senators say: I know this vote in relation to the Coburn amend- contracts. We have done so on a strong is a bad bill, I know it is wasteful, but ment No. 596; that no amendment be in bipartisan basis because we recognize I have something in it for back home. order to the amendment prior to a that small businesses are able to pro- I can’t vote against it. vote; that upon disposition of amend- vide the same level of skill and service There is only one person in Wash- ment No. 596, the Senate resume con- as their larger counterparts. We should ington who can stop all this because sideration of the Coburn amendment continue giving these small companies Congressmen and Senators will say, No. 608; and that there be 20 minutes of a fair chance to earn business, prosper, similar to a bunch of drunks: I am not debate remaining with respect to the grow and create the jobs our country going to drink as much tomorrow. But amendment, with no amendment in desperately needs. they don’t have the power to stop order to the amendment prior to a vote Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I ask for themselves. I have become convinced, in relation thereto; with the time the yeas and nays on the Coburn after 10 years of being in the House and equally divided and controlled between amendment No. 596. the Senate, we don’t have the power to Senators LEAHY and COBURN or their The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a stop ourselves. designees; that upon the use of that sufficient second? There appears to be. There is one person in Washington time, the Senate proceed to vote in re- The question is on agreeing to the who can lead on this issue and he said lation to amendment No. 608. amendment. he would lead on this issue and he said The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there The clerk will call the roll. this is a change we could expect from objection? The assistant legislative clerk called his administration. The President Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I wish to the roll. should veto this omnibus bill with over clarify the time. There is no time at Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the 9,000 earmarks in it—9,000 of what I am this moment, but it will be soon. Senator from North Dakota (Mr. reading here. It takes money. They The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without CONRAD) and the Senator from Massa- say: It is not that much money; oh, it objection, it is so ordered. chusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) are necessarily is just $7 billion or $8 billion or what- Mr. REID. Mr. President, prohibiting absent. ever; but the reason we are passing a no-bid contracts is a laudable goal. Mr. KYL. The following Senators are $400 billion bill that we should not be With billions of dollars wasted on no- necessarily absent: the Senator from passing right now is because it has bid contracts by the previous adminis- Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS) and the Sen- these earmarks in it. tration, it is a goal that Democrats and ator from Alabama (Mr. SESSIONS). The reason you won’t see very many Republicans should embrace. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there people on the floor of this Senate come But Amendment No. 596 which is dis- any other Senators in the Chamber de- in and vote no is because they have guised as a good government amend- siring to vote? something in it for back home that ment does far more harm than good. The result was announced—yeas 38, they have already done a press release This amendment would require that nays 57, as follows: on, taking credit and beating their only procedures in accordance with chests for taking home the bacon, but section 303 of the Federal Property Ad- [Rollcall Vote No. 77 Leg.] the taxpayers are paying for it. Folks ministrative Services Act would be eli- YEAS—38 are getting more and more outraged, gible to receive funds. Alexander Ensign McCain and I am, too, because I have children The result would be to strictly limit Barrasso Enzi McCaskill and I have grandchildren now and I opportunities for small businesses, mi- Bayh Feingold McConnell Bennett Graham Risch know we are taking all these millions nority-owned businesses and Native Brownback Grassley Roberts of dollars and putting it on their backs Americans to receive agency contracts. Bunning Gregg Shelby for the rest of their lives and taking The Indian Self-Determination Act Burr Hagan Specter Chambliss Hatch Thune credit for our little projects in our and the Native American Housing As- Coburn Inhofe Vitter Corker Isakson press reports. sistance and Self-Determination Act Voinovich Cornyn Klobuchar There is only one person who can allow tribes to provide governmental Warner Crapo Kyl stop this; the person America counts services to their members by entering DeMint Martinez Webb on today for changing the way we do contracts and receiving grants. Requir- business in Washington. After only a ing these contracts and grants to go NAYS—57 month in office, if this system has through a competitive process would Akaka Byrd Durbin Baucus Cantwell Feinstein changed him rather than him changing undermine the purposes of tribal self- Begich Cardin Gillibrand the system, then we are all in trouble. determination. Bennet Carper Harkin We have not reduced earmarks, and we The tribes in Nevada and throughout Bingaman Casey Hutchison are on track to have the highest num- America know how to best serve their Bond Cochran Inouye Boxer Collins Johnson ber of earmarks in history within the members’ interests. Tribes enter con- Brown Dodd Kaufman next year, in a bipartisan fashion. tracts with the Bureau of Indian Af- Burris Dorgan Kerry

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.044 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2751 Kohl Mikulski Schumer bill passed. And now we come up and criticism, and I told him so at the Landrieu Murkowski Shaheen Lautenberg Murray Snowe say we will take care of it through the time. After he lifted his hold, the full Leahy Nelson (FL) Stabenow administration, which was the very ar- Senate passed the Till bill unani- Levin Nelson (NE) Tester gument I used that said we didn’t need mously by voice vote. Senator COBURN Lieberman Pryor Udall (CO) increased authorization. Now all of a announced that he ‘‘can’t convince’’ Lincoln Reed Udall (NM) Lugar Reid Whitehouse sudden you say that is good enough. his colleagues that ‘‘there are plenty of Menendez Rockefeller Wicker Well, it is not good enough. It breaks funds’’ at Justice to probe these old Merkley Sanders Wyden your commitment to fully fund this crimes, so he decided to lift his hold. NOT VOTING—4 program to bring to justice those who I am glad that Senator COBURN finally ended his opposition to the Em- Conrad Kennedy committed these terrible crimes. Johanns Sessions I reserve the remainder of my time. mett Till bill. I know that he now likes to emphasize that he belatedly became The amendment (No. 596) was re- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ator from Vermont. a supporter of the bill, but that was jected. after years of having stalled its pas- Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, how much time is available in opposition to sage. Regrettably, the current Coburn move to reconsider the vote. amendment appears to be as mis- Mr. LEVIN. I move to lay that mo- this amendment? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Ten min- chievous as was his unsuccessful tion on the table. amendment to the District of Columbia The motion to lay on the table was utes. Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I recall House voting rights bill last week. It agreed to. the young man who killed his parents should suffer the same fate. It should AMENDMENT NO. 608 and threw himself at the mercy of the not delay or deter passage of the Omni- The PRESIDING OFFICER. There court saying: You have to give me bus appropriations bill that needs to be will now be 20 minutes of debate prior mercy, I am now an orphan. I have passed by the Senate and signed by the to a vote on amendment No. 608 of the heard that line used before on this President this week. Senator from Oklahoma. Who yields floor and I use it again in this instance This special ‘‘earmark’’ that the Sen- time? because I hope we can tell the truth ator from Oklahoma is proposing is just not needed. Its functional impact The Senator from Oklahoma is recog- about what happened on the Emmett if accepted would be to prevent enact- nized. Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act. AMENDMENT NO. 608 I worked very hard over the last two ment of the Omnibus appropriations bill this week and force it to be recon- Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, this years with Senator DODD and Congress- sidered by the House of Representa- amendment is a very straightforward man LEWIS to pass the Emmett Till tives. At a time when confidence and amendment. This Senate made a com- Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act to funding of our Nation’s institutions is mitment last year through the Emmett provide resources for the Department critical, we should not be playing Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act of Justice and Federal Bureau of Inves- games with funding. We need to get it that we would fund in this bill money tigation to investigate and prosecute done. We need to work together to to be applied to the Justice Depart- decades-old unsolved civil rights cold ment to start and bring up to a level solve the Nation’s problems. case crimes. It could have been law ear- In fact, this Omnibus appropriations that is appropriate the funding of the lier had not Republican opposition ob- bill increases funding for the Justice investigative, prosecutorial, and other structed its enactment. We tried to get Department, specifically for the Civil necessary agencies with which to go this bill through the Senate. It was Rights Division, and already increases after these unsolved crimes. being held up. Now, after the efforts to funding available to Emmett Till-type The reason it is important is that in stop it from becoming law in the first investigations and grants. I doubt that most of these crimes, the witnesses are place, we are told: Oh, my gosh, my anyone in the Senate is a stronger sup- very elderly. So the timeliness of it is Emmett Till bill, which I love so much, porter of Federal assistance to State very important. you are not funding it right. That is and local law enforcement than I. Pro- It is interesting today that the other not right. This should have been a non- viding that support will take place side produced a letter from the Attor- controversial bill and it should not when the Omnibus appropriations bill ney General that states exactly the op- have taken several Congresses to pass. is enacted and we can provide the in- posite position they took last year Indeed, passage ended years of oppo- creased funding at last year’s appro- when I opposed trying to get the sition by Senator COBURN and others priated levels and the funding in the money to pay for this bill. They bring across the aisle. In June 2007, we unsuc- continuing resolution. I believe the forth a letter that says Attorney Gen- cessfully attempted to get Senate con- best way to move forward, if we sup- eral Holder is going to make sure we sideration and passage of the bill by port the Emmett Till bill and care to try to do this within the funds he has. unanimous consent. Senator COBURN solve unsolved civil rights era crimes, That is the very argument I made last placed a hold on the Till bill. The Sen- is to pass the Omnibus appropriations year, but it was not good enough. So ator from Oklahoma also announced bill without adding this additional, un- we had hundreds of press releases go that he opposed the Till bill because necessary ‘‘earmark.’’ out on all these things we are going to the FBI is already investigating and The able chair of the Appropriations do on the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil prosecuting old civil rights cases and Subcommittee, a long-time supporter Rights Crime Act. Yet when it comes because crimes committed before 1970 of the Emmett Till bill, has set forth, time to fund it this year, we cannot cannot be prosecuted under most Fed- not only does the Civil Rights Division find $10 million in a $410 billion bill to eral civil rights statutes. get more funding under the bill, not do it. Either we mean to do it and we Majority Leader REID included the only does the inspector general receive mean to uphold the promise we made Emmett Till bill in the Advancing more funding under the bill, but $30 to this group that has worked hard to America’s Priorities Act, S. 3297, last million is available under the bill for have that bill passed or we are full of summer. It was still opposed by the competitive funds for States and local hot air. Senator from Oklahoma who objected jurisdictions, including for inves- This amendment takes $10 million to its consideration. tigating and prosecuting civil rights from a program that has questionable I worked for months to have it con- violations. In addition, the increased results in half of its grant money. I sidered and passed as a separate stand funding for U.S. attorneys’ offices, will not go into the details of it. Yet alone measure. I have to thank Senator something for which some of us have we will not fund this bill. I said last DODD and Representative JOHN LEWIS been fighting for years, is significant; year on the Senate floor, we will see if for their leadership and hard work in the funding for grants to State forensic you fund it. And sure enough, you persevering and getting it through the labs is significant; and there is more didn’t fund it. So you didn’t keep your full Senate over the objection and the than $150 million to reduce the backlog commitment, you didn’t keep your roadblocks of the Senator from Okla- of offender profiles and untested DNA, commitment to Alvin Sykes, a guy homa. I was happy when he finally something we have fought for in the who has worked 10 years to get that ended his opposition, after much public Debbie Smith Act for years.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.013 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2752 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 Does anybody doubt Attorney Gen- ing either his confirmation hearing or this the way the Justice Department eral Holder is sensitive to these mat- an appearance before the committee. was funded. ters? Of course he is. Our first African- He responded there was adequate fund- There is not one mention of this bill American Attorney General does not ing. He said—I think his quote was at in either the report language or the need to be lectured or mandated on in- the time he would ‘‘figure out ways to text of the bill related to this par- vestigating heinous crimes committed try to move money around’’ to inves- ticular act. So what we see is cover. against African Americans during the tigate and prosecute these crimes. I truly wish to see us solve all these. civil rights era. He has spoken about Of course, under this omnibus bill be- But the game that is being played his dedication to restoring the Civil fore us, Department of Justice funds today is somebody forgot to fund it. Rights Division. He will demonstrate can be used to investigate unsolved The final point I will make before my his commitment. Indeed, in his recent civil rights crimes. The money includes time runs out is that if this gets added, letter to Chairwoman MIKULSKI he reit- $123 million for the Civil Rights Divi- we are not going to not fund this. This erates the Justice Department’s sion at the Department of Justice re- bill is still going to pass, we are still ‘‘wholehearted’’ support for the goals sponsible for investigating cold cases, going to do the hard work, and we are of the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil which is $7 million more than the fiscal still going to fund the agencies. To Rights Crime Act, notes some of the year 2008 levels. There is an additional imply otherwise is disingenuous. actions the Department has already $30 million for competitive funds for This amendment was put up in a sin- taken, and states his ‘‘personal com- State and local governments. Eligible cere effort to keep a commitment to mitment’’ to pursue these matters. activities include expenses associated Alvin Sykes, not to create mischief, Ironically, Senator COBURN voted with investigating and prosecuting not to be a bill killer, but to create a against the nomination of Eric Holder, civil rights violations that are crimi- commitment. The last thing I told as well. nal in nature. Alvin Sykes: You got it authorized. I join Chairman INOUYE, the distin- Obviously, as Senator LEAHY and Your problem is going to be getting it guished chair of the Appropriations others have pointed out, it is critically funded. He was assured by the office of Committee; Chairwoman MIKULSKI, the important we get this omnibus bill Senator DODD and others that it would chair of the Appropriations Sub- done or funding altogether will be be funded. And what do you know, the committee; Senator DODD, the author eliminated. I say it is time we move bill comes through and it is not funded. of the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil forward. This has been an important I don’t know if it was a mistake. Just Rights Crime Act; and the majority matter, the fact that we received unan- say it was a mistake and we will take leader in opposing this amendment at imous support on this effort back a few care of it in the next bill. But to deny this time on this legislation. months ago. the fact we made a commitment and Our interest is actually in going after Jim Talent, who came up with the now are not keeping it and assign all these unsolved crimes, not in trying to idea, thought we ought to pursue these sorts of motives different than what add a poison pill amendment to the bill matters. I thought it was a worthy one. they are is pretty distasteful, I would on the Senate floor. That is what we That is why I joined him in it. On a bi- say. did, we fought for years over the objec- partisan basis, we stepped forward. It I reserve the remainder of my time. tion of the Senator from Oklahoma to would be unfortunate at this hour to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- get the Emmett Till bill passed. Let’s take this omnibus bill, which has re- ator from Vermont. not now kill it with an amendment on sources to do that, to reject this and Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I was the floor. obviously send the whole matter into going back over the notes of what I The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- conference, which would delay the said. I don’t find anything where I as- ator from Connecticut. funding that is appropriated in this cribe any motives to the Senator from Mr. DODD. Mr. President, I will be bill. Oklahoma. I am shocked that he very brief. Senator LEAHY described With that, I respectfully say to my thought I had. If there is any implica- the situation very well. One name that friend from Oklahoma that I appre- tion in the record that I was ascribing was not mentioned in the discussion ciate his support of the underlying con- motive to my friend and valued mem- here was Jim Talent, a former col- cept and bill, that we pursue these ber of the Senate Judiciary Com- league of ours from Missouri, a former matters of unsolved civil rights cases. I mittee, it certainly was not intended. I Republican Member of this body who welcome his participation in that. I did, however, relate the fact that he was the principal author of the Em- strongly urge my colleagues respect- held up the bill for some considerable mett Till legislation. I was his cospon- fully to reject the amendment so we period of time. That is a fact. That is sor, and when he left, I became the lead can move forward and provide the fund- in the RECORD. That is known. I will let sponsor and others joined on both sides ing necessary for the bill. him explain why he held it up. I ascribe of the aisle to adopt this legislation to Mr. President, I yield the floor. no motives. In fact, in my 36 years in pursue unsolved civil rights cases. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the Senate, I have not ascribed motives I say to my friend from Oklahoma, I ator from Oklahoma. to any colleague of mine, even if he or am pleased we resolved it. He had some Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, first, I she placed a hold on a bill. I am not problems not so much with the idea of regret the inference that my obstruc- about to start now. The fact is, the investigating unsolved matters. His tion to this bill was anything other Senator from Oklahoma did place a concern was, if I recall, whether the than financial. To me it is a fairly low hold on the important Emmett Till matter ought to be authorized without blow to imply, by the chairman of the bill. The fact is, the full Senate did having an offset at the time. As I re- Judiciary Committee, that I had a mo- pass it over his objection. The fact is, call, that was the debate. tivation other than financial. I am we do have a letter from Eric Holder, We went a year, maybe longer, while known in this body for trying to make the Attorney General, promising that this was held up and we were not able us more efficient and to save money. his Justice Department has already, to adopt it. The argument is that had The second thing is it is laughable to and will continue, to commit its re- we done so, when it finally passed call it an earmark. It is authorized. sources towards prosecuting civil unanimously in this body, it was after That is what we passed last year. It is rights era cold cases. The fact is, the the Commerce-Justice-Science appro- authorized. It is authorized by 100 Sen- money we want to have is already in priations bill was adopted. So it was ators. The commitment that was made the bill we consider today. And the fact too late to get the funding in that pro- was that we would fund it. is, we have to pass this bill with the posal. As a result, we ended up with an One of my negotiations for finally appropriations in here, including for authorization. agreeing is that if you are going to do the Department of Justice, so we can As Senator LEAHY has pointed out, this and you are going to authorize it move forward as a nation. We must en- Eric Holder has testified, in fact, I at $15 million a year, you ought to at sure that the Emmett Till bill is more think, in response to questions of my least fund it since the very statements than simply a statute. It must also be friend from Oklahoma, whether there were that we didn’t have the money an answer to the hopes of all Ameri- would be funding for this program dur- within the Justice Department to do cans that justice might finally occur in

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.048 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2753 so many of the unsolved civil rights The letter the chairman of the Judi- The result was announced—yeas 37, cases. ciary just submitted for the RECORD nays 58, as follows: Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- has already been submitted for the [Rollcall Vote No. 78 Leg.] sent to have printed in the RECORD the RECORD. It was submitted this morn- YEAS—37 letter from Eric Holder. ing. But it is ironic that the very argu- Alexander Crapo McCain There being no objection, the mate- ment I used in trying to get them to Barrasso DeMint McCaskill rial was ordered to be printed in the offset this bill last year is the very ar- Bennett Ensign McConnell Bond Enzi RECORD, as follows: gument they are using now to say we Risch Brownback Graham Roberts THE ATTORNEY GENERAL, don’t need to have a line item in the Bunning Grassley Shelby Washington, DC, March 3, 2009. appropriations bill for it. It wasn’t a Burr Hatch Specter Hon. BARBARA MIKULSKI, Chambliss Hutchison Thune good enough argument last year, but it Coburn Inhofe Chairwoman, Subcommittee on Commerce, Jus- Vitter is a good enough argument now that Cochran Isakson tice, Science and Related Agencies, Com- Voinovich Collins Kyl mittee on Appropriations, U.S. Senate, you don’t want to fund this directly. Wicker This is a matter of timing. We ought Corker Lugar Washington, DC. Cornyn Martinez DEAR MADAM CHAIRWOMAN: The Depart- to put the money in this on a timely ment of Justice wholeheartedly supports the basis to make sure we solve these NAYS—58 goals of the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil crimes. The witnesses are dying and Akaka Gregg Nelson (FL) Rights Crime Act. The racially-motivated the information is going away. Justice Baucus Hagan Nelson (NE) Bayh Harkin murders from the civil rights era constitute denied comes about because we are de- Pryor some of the greatest blemishes upon our his- Begich Inouye Reed tory. laying justice. Regardless of the good Bennet Johnson Reid The Department is working in partnership intentions of the Attorney General, we Bingaman Kaufman Rockefeller Boxer Kerry with the National Association for the Ad- can force them to spend this money in Sanders Brown Klobuchar Schumer vancement of Colored People, the Southern that way, and the way to do that is to Burris Kohl Shaheen Poverty Law Center, and the National Urban Byrd Landrieu put a line item in the bill. Snowe League to investigate the unsolved racially- Cantwell Lautenberg Mr. President, I reserve the remain- Stabenow motivated violent crimes committed more Cardin Leahy der of my time. Carper Levin Tester than 40 years ago. The FBI has prioritized Udall (CO) the top dozen of these cases, though there The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who Casey Lieberman yields time? Dodd Lincoln Udall (NM) are more than 100 unsolved murder cases Warner Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, there is Dorgan Menendez from the civil rights era under review by the Durbin Merkley Webb FBI. very little time left to the Senator Feingold Mikulski Whitehouse You have my personal commitment that from Vermont. I serve on both the Ap- Feinstein Murkowski Wyden the Department will continue to pursue propriations Committee and also as Gillibrand Murray these serious crimes in those matters in Chairman of the Senate Judiciary NOT VOTING—4 which the law and the facts would permit effective law enforcement action. We will con- Committee, the committee that has Conrad Kennedy tinue to use our resources and expertise to oversight over the Department of Jus- Johanns Sessions identify and locate those responsible for tice. The amendment of the Senator The amendment (No. 608) was re- these crimes and prosecute them whenever from Oklahoma to fund the Emmett jected. possible, consistent with the Principles of Till bill is unnecessary and would kill Mr. COCHRAN. Mr. President, I move Federal Prosecution. the overall appropriations. I will op- to reconsider the vote by which the Sincerely, pose it. amendment was not agreed to. ERIC H. HOLDER, Jr. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Mr. REID. I move to lay that motion Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, how ator’s time has expired. on the table. much time remains? The Senator from Oklahoma. The motion to lay on the table was The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, this agreed to. 20 seconds remaining. amendment would not kill this bill. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I with- What it will do is, it will go back to the jority leader. hold the remainder of my time. Mr. REID. We have a couple more The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. House, and they will have to agree to it. Everybody knows that. We have amendments offered by the Senator BURRIS). The Senator from Oklahoma. from Oklahoma that we are going to Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, how known this day was coming for a long time. Whatever the outcome, the fact try to dispose of this evening. It is my much time do I have remaining? wish that we could do that about 5:30 is, those commitments weren’t kept. The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is this afternoon. So people who wish to 1 We didn’t do what we told the very peo- 4 ⁄2 minutes remaining. speak on the remaining two Coburn ple who worked very hard to accom- Mr. COBURN. I thank the Chair. amendments should come and do that. You know, it is interesting, when I plish this we would do, and it sheds a We do not have an agreement yet to hold bills it is hardly ever on policy. light on our body that should not be that effect, but we are sure going to Every one of you got a letter from there. try to get to that. As everybody knows, me—everybody in this body—which Mr. President, I yield back the re- there is an event at the White House said I will oppose all new legislation if mainder of my time, and I ask for the that Senator MCCONNELL and the you are spending new money unless yeas and nays. chairmen and ranking members have you decrease authorization somewhere The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a been invited to attend. We are going to else. The American people get that. sufficient second? do that. We are going to move through You can’t keep growing the govern- There is a sufficient second. as many of these amendments as we ment and promising we will do things. The question is on agreeing to the can tonight. I would like to only get So we are seeing it wrung out—the true Coburn amendment. those two amendments voted on. operations of the Senate—because what The clerk will call the roll. That means we have three that have we are doing is promising something, The bill clerk called the roll. already been filed, so we are going to but when it comes down to dividing the Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the come in early in the morning and start pie, we don’t have the money. So in- Senator from North Dakota (Mr. working on those. It is my under- stead of recalling our press releases, we CONRAD) and the Senator from Massa- standing that there are a number of don’t fund them. We don’t keep our chusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) are necessarily other amendments people want to commitments. absent. offer. But I should alert everyone, we No wonder the American people don’t Mr. KYL. The following Senators are are kind of winding down. We have to- trust Congress. We play games. We ma- necessarily absent: the Senator from morrow to work on this. But I would nipulate. This is something that should Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS) and the Sen- hope everyone would understand we have had, and was committed to hav- ator from Alabama (Mr. SESSIONS). have been through a lot of amending, a line item in the appropriations The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there ments, with no prerequisites as to what bill to make sure this money funds any other Senators in the Chamber de- they are, and I think that unless somewhat is necessary on a timely basis. siring to vote? thing untoward happens, I am going to

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.050 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 file cloture on this tonight for a Friday (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 4 months Mr. REID. Mr. President, I indicated morning cloture vote. after the date of the enactment of this Act, to the Republican floor staff that that We will have to see at that time how the Secretary of State shall submit a report is one amendment we are aware is many amendments we can dispose of to the Committee on Appropriations of the going to be offered. We hope to be able Senate and the Committee on Appropria- to start offering those as soon as we tomorrow to see what the temperature tions of the House of Representatives indi- of the body is. It would certainly be cating the amount of funds that the UNFPA finish the votes this evening—at least possible, with a consent agreement, is budgeting for the year in which the report yours and maybe a couple others we that we can dispose of this tomorrow. is submitted for a country program in the will consider, the one amendment Sen- But it is up to the Senators as to what People’s Republic of China. ator KYL is going to speak on now. they want to do. As I have indicated, (2) DEDUCTION.—If a report submitted I asked Senator KERRY, the chairman the CR expires on Friday. So we have under paragraph (1) indicates that the of the committee, to take a look at it to do something. I have told people UNFPA plans to spend funds for a country before we make an agreement on it, program in the People’s Republic of China in but yours is one we are aware of. We this, but so there is no misunder- the year covered by the report, the amount standing, I have spoken, in fact with understand it. We are ready. I would of such funds that the UNFPA plans to spend only say to my friend from Oklahoma, the Speaker last night, had a meeting in the People’s Republic of China shall be de- with her about 4:30 in the afternoon. ducted from the funds made available to the I do not know what word you used— She said: We have put our Members UNFPA after March 1 for obligation for the noncontroversial or whatever it is— through a lot over here on this appro- remainder of the fiscal year in which the re- that is in the eye of the beholder. Mr. INHOFE. That is also in the eye priations bill. I am not going to put port is submitted. ULE OF ONSTRUCTION of the majority of Democrats and Re- them through any more. If there are (f) R C .—Nothing in this section may be construed to limit the au- publicans in the last 17 years. any amendments, we are going to do a thority of the President to deny funds to any Mr. REID. But the majority has CR for the rest of the year. organization by reason of the application of changed. But the information I have given the another provision of this Act or any other The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Senate is nothing new. I said that ear- provision of law. objection, it is so ordered. lier this week. So we have had good de- AMENDMENT NO. 635 Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I was going bate on all these amendments. I hope it On page 458, after line 25, insert the fol- to offer for consideration my amend- continues. lowing: ment No. 634, but I will do that after AMENDMENTS NOS. 607 AND 635 EMERGENCY FUND FOR INDIAN SAFETY AND the second vote at the request of the Mr. KYL. Mr. President, while the HEALTH majority leader. Let me take a couple leader is still here, I ask unanimous For deposit in the Emergency Fund for In- minutes right now to explain what this consent that the Thune amendment dian Safety and Health established by sub- amendment is. No. 635, and the Wicker amendment No. section (a) of section 601 of the Tom Lantos During the Presidential campaign, 607 be modified with the changes that and Henry J. Hyde United States Global President Obama said: Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, are at the desk. and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 (25 If we can impose the kinds of sanctions Mrs. BOXER. Reserving the right to U.S.C. 443c), for use by the Attorney General, that, say, for example, Iran right now im- object, I have not seen those modifica- the Secretary of Health and Human Services, ports gasoline, even though it’s an oil-producer, because its oil infrastructure has bro- tions. and the Secretary of the Interior in accord- ken down, if we can prevent them from im- Now I am being told they are very ance with that section, $400,000,000, to be de- porting the gasoline that they need and the minor. In that case I will not object. rived by transfer of an equal percentage from refined petroleum products, that starts each other program and project for which The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without changing their cost-benefit analysis. That funds are made available by this Act, not- objection, it is so ordered. starts putting the squeeze on them. withstanding the limitation contained in The amendments (Nos. 607 and 635), Indeed, I think the President is ex- as modified, are as follows: section 3: Provided, That, not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, actly right about that. I know of no AMENDMENT NO. 607 the Director of the Office of Management disagreement with that proposition. I On page 927, strike line 14 and all that fol- and Budget shall submit to the Committees also think there would be no disagree- lows through page 929, line 20, and insert the on Appropriations of the House of Represent- ment with the proposition that U.S. following: atives and the Senate a report regarding the taxpayers should not be supporting (b) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.—Funds appro- transfer. priated under the heading ‘‘International Or- Iran’s energy sector. As a result, I have ganizations and Programs’’ in this Act that The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- offered or I will be offering this amend- are available for UNFPA and are not made ator from Arizona. ment No. 634 that does exactly that. It available for UNFPA because of the oper- Mr. KYL. Mr. President, in deference says very simply: That none of the ation of any provision of law, shall be trans- to the majority leader’s request, I will funds made available in this appropria- ferred to the ‘‘Global Health and Child Sur- not ask that amendment No. 635— tions legislation, can go to companies vival’’ account and shall be made available Mr. REID. Would my friend withhold helping Iran either import or export for family planning, maternal, and reproduc- for a unanimous consent request? energy or energy-related goods. tive health activities, subject to the regular Mr. KYL. I will. It also does give the President the notification procedures of the Committee on Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- authority to waive the provision if he Appropriations of the Senate and the Com- imous consent that the votes in rela- mittee on Appropriations of the House of deems it necessary for a valid national Representatives. tion to the Coburn amendments Nos. security reason. (c) PROHIBITION ON USE OF FUNDS IN 610 and 623 occur at 5:35 p.m. today Two quick points for colleagues who CHINA.—None of the funds made available with no amendments in order to either may say: Well, of course, we are not under ‘‘International Organizations and Pro- amendment prior to a vote; and that going to allow any of this money to go grams’’ may be made available for the the votes occur in the order listed with to companies that provide this kind of UNFPA for a country program in the Peo- 2 minutes of debate equally divided relief to Iran’s energy sector. I would ple’s Republic of China. prior to the second vote; and that the note two examples. Senator LIEBERMAN (d) CONDITIONS ON AVAILABILITY OF second vote be 10 minutes in duration. FUNDS.—Amounts made available under and I sent a letter to the Export-Im- ‘‘International Organizations and Programs’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there port Bank last October because the for fiscal year 2009 for the UNFPA may not objection? bank gave $900 million to loan guaran- be made available to UNFPA unless— Mr. INHOFE. Reserving the right to tees to a company that was exporting (1) the UNFPA maintains amounts made object, I will not object, but I would gasoline to Iran. When we asked the available to the UNFPA under this section in like to make an inquiry, if I could, of bank whether it thought the taxpayers an account separate from other accounts of the majority. I have been trying to get should be funding those kinds of bene- the UNFPA; up a noncontroversial amendment for a fits to Iran, one of the points raised in (2) the UNFPA does not commingle long period of time. It is one that has amounts made available to the UNFPA the response to me, one that was, by under this section with other sums; and actually been on this legislation since the way, rather indirect in answering (3) the UNFPA does not fund abortions. 1996, supported by Democrats and Re- the question I asked was: (e) REPORT TO CONGRESS AND DOLLAR-FOR- publicans. I have to have an oppor- The Ex-Im Bank generally is prohibited DOLLAR WITHHOLDING OF FUNDS.— tunity to get this thing up. from taking foreign policy determinations

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.053 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2755 into account when making credit decisions all of this gasoline from just five companies, currently building a $100 million terminal in pursuant to its Charter. four of them European: the Swiss firm Vitol; Port Canaveral, Florida. Well, of course, those are the kinds of the Swiss/Dutch firm Trafigura; the French Last year, when Minnesota Gov. Tim considerations the American taxpayers firm Total; British Petroleum; and one In- Pawlenty discovered that an Indian com- dian company, Reliance Industries. If these pany, Essar, was seeking to both invest some would want to be taken into account. I companies stopped supplying Iran, the Ira- $1.6 billion in Minnesota and invest over $5 would also note, on Monday, the Wall nians could replace only some of what they billion in building a refinery in Iran, he put Street Journal noted that several of needed from other suppliers—and at a sig- Essar to a choice. Mr. Pawlenty threatened our colleagues from the other body nificantly higher price. Neither Russia nor to block state infrastructure subsidies and wrote to the Secretary of Energy con- China could serve as alternative suppliers. perhaps even construction permits for the cerning a purchase of crude oil from Both are themselves also heavily dependent Minnesota purchase unless Essar withdrew another company doing business in on imports of the type of gasoline Iran needs. from the Iranian investment. Essar promptly Iran’s energy sector. In this case, the Were these companies to stop supplying withdrew from the Iranian investment. gasoline to Iran, the world-wide price of oil Florida officials could consider taking a company is named Vitol, a Netherlands would be unaffected—the companies would similar stance with Vitol. trading firm that was fined $17.5 mil- simply sell to other buyers. But the impact The Minnesota example is not the only lion after a jury convicted the com- on Iran would be substantial. precedent. U.S. outreach to foreign banks pany for criminal misdeeds related to When Tehran attempted to ration gasoline and to oil companies considering investing the oil-for-food scandal. during the summer of 2007, violent protests in Iran’s energy sector has reportedly con- Obviously, the U.S. Government forced the regime to back down. Cutting off vinced more than 80 banks and several major should not be doing business with a gasoline sales to Iran, or even a significant potential oil-field investors to cease all or some of their business with Iran. Among company such as that. reduction, could have an even more dramatic effect. them: Germany’s two largest banks (Deut- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- In Congress, there is already bipartisan sche Bank and Commerzbank), London-based sent that a piece from the American support for peacefully cutting off gasoline HSBC, Credit Suisse, Norwegian energy com- Foreign Policy Council by Orde Kittrie sales to Iran until it stops its illicit nuclear pany StatoilHydro, and Royal Dutch Shell. and carried, I believe, in the Wall activities. Barack Obama, John McCain and A sustained initiative may be able to con- Street Journal, be printed in the the House of Representatives have all de- vince most or all current and potential sup- RECORD at the end of my comments. clared their support. pliers that the profits to be gained from con- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without On June 4 of this year, for example, Sen. tinuing to sell gasoline to Iran will be Obama said at a speech in Washington, D.C.: objection, it is so ordered. dwarfed by the lost loan guarantees and sub- ‘‘We should work with Europe, Japan and the sidies and foregone profits they will incur in (See exhibit 1.) Gulf states to find every avenue outside the the U.S. from continuing to do business with Mr. KYL. I would hope when my col- U.N. to isolate the Iranian regime—from cut- Iran. leagues have an opportunity to vote on ting off loan guarantees and expanding fi- Last Sunday, a group of 60 Iranian econo- this amendment, they will agree that nancial sanctions, to banning the export of mists called for the regime to drastically ensuring the appropriate use of Amer- refined petroleum to Iran.’’ change course, saying that President ican taxpayer money is important, it is He repeated this sentiment during the Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s ‘‘tension-creating’’ one of our obligations. We agree with presidential candidates’ debate on Oct. 7: foreign policy has ‘‘scared off foreign invest- the President that is the kind of thing ‘‘Iran right now imports gasoline . . . if we ment and inflicted heavy damage on the can prevent them from importing the gaso- economy.’’ The economists said the current we can do to put some pressure on Iran, line that they need . . . that starts changing sanctions, as weak as they are, have cost and as a result, we should not be send- their cost-benefit analysis. That starts put- Iran billions of dollars by forcing it to use ing our money to companies that ting the squeeze on them.’’ middlemen for exports and imports. Halting would be supporting the energy sector How do we stop the gasoline from flowing? Iran’s gasoline supply could contribute to in Iran. The Bush administration has reportedly reaching a tipping point—at which economic I appreciate my colleagues’ consider- never asked the Swiss, Dutch, French, Brit- pressures and protests convince the regime ation of the amendment when we have ish or Indian governments to stop gasoline its illicit nuclear program poses too great a an opportunity to offer it, debate it, sales to Iran by the companies risk to its grip over the Iranian people. headquartered within their borders. An If the federal and key state governments in and vote on it. Obama administration should make this re- the U.S. were to make it their goal to EXHIBIT 1 quest, and do the same with other govern- achieve a halt by companies selling gasoline [From the Wall Street Journal, Nov. 13, 2008] ments if other companies try to sell gasoline to Iran, it could be a game-changer. It may HOW TO PUT THE SQUEEZE ON IRAN to Iran. be our best remaining hope for peacefully But the U.S. also has significant direct le- CUTTING OFF ITS GASOLINE IMPORTS MAY BE convincing Iran to desist from developing verage over the companies that currently THE ONLY PEACEFUL WAY TO GET TEHRAN TO nuclear weapons. supply most of Iran’s imported gasoline. ABANDON ITS NUCLEAR WEAPONS PROGRAM Consider India’s Reliance Industries which, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- (By Orde F. Kittrie) according to International Oil Daily, ‘‘re- ator from Washington is recognized. If Barack Obama is to persuade Iran to ne- emerged as a major supplier of gasoline to Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I rise gotiate away its illegal nuclear weapons pro- Iran’’ in July after taking a break for several this evening to address criticism that gram, he will first need to generate more le- months. It ‘‘delivered three cargoes of gaso- has been raised by some of our Repub- verage than what the Bush administration is line totaling around 100,000 tons to Iran’s lican colleagues about the Omnibus ap- leaving him with. The current U.N. sanctions Mideast Gulf port of Bandar Abbas from its propriations bill that is before us have proven too weak to dissuade Tehran’s giant Jamnagar refinery in India’s western today. As I have talked about repeat- leaders, and Russia and China seem deter- province of Gujarat.’’ Reliance reportedly edly, this bill that is in front of us now mined to keep those sanctions weak. Mean- ‘‘entered into a new arrangement with Na- while, the regime continues to insist there tional Iranian Oil Co. (NIOC) under which it is very critical. At the end of this are no incentives in exchange for which it will supply around . . . three 35,000-ton car- week, a few days from now, the con- would halt or even limit its nuclear work. goes a month, from its giant Jamnagar refin- tinuing resolution we have been oper- However, Tehran has an economic Achilles’ ery.’’ One hundred thousand tons represents ating under is going to expire. At that heel—its extraordinarily heavy dependence some 10% of Iran’s total monthly gasoline time, the Government will shut down if on imported gasoline. This dependence could needs. we do not take action. be used by the United States to peacefully The Jamnagar refinery is heavily sup- This bill we are talking about keeps ported by U.S. taxpayer dollars. In May 2007, create decisive leverage over the Islamic Re- the Government running at a time public. the U.S. Export-Import Bank, a government Iranian oil wells produce far more petro- agency that assists in financing the export of when we desperately need Federal em- leum (crude oil) than Iran needs. Yet, re- U.S. goods and services, announced a $500 ployees on the job working to help our markably for a country investing so much in million loan guarantee to help finance ex- economy recover. Our communities are nuclear power, Iran has not developed suffi- pansion of the Jamnagar refinery. On Aug. counting on the money and the work in cient capacity to refine that crude oil into 28, 2008, Ex-Im announced a new $400 million this bill. This bill fulfills the commit- gasoline and diesel fuel. As a result, it must long-term loan guarantee for Reliance, in- ment we made to our communities import some 40% of the gasoline it needs for cluding additional financing of work at the back in June and July, when we internal consumption. Jamnagar refinery. In recent months, Iran has, according to Or consider the Swiss firm Vitol. Accord- marked up these appropriations bills. the respected trade publication Inter- ing to International Oil Daily, Vitol ‘‘over It ensures that the basic needs of Gov- national Oil Daily and other sources includ- the past few years has accounted for around ernment, from housing to law enforce- ing the U.S. government, purchased nearly 60% of the gasoline shipped to Iran.’’ Vitol is ment, to transportation safety are met

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.054 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2756 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 and that our agencies keep up with in- end homelessness. Not only will this publicans themselves. This bill directs flation. money help the people who live there, $475,000 to build an emergency shelter I have come to the floor because it will take a burden off the social safe- at a Women’s Bay in Alaska; $475,000 to some of my colleagues on the other ty net and ultimately save all of us Harbor Homes in Nashua, NH, to build side of the aisle have been raising ques- money in services we would have had housing for honorably discharged tions about the 1 percent of funding in to provide. So like all of the projects homeless veterans; $475,000 for the con- this bill that they call earmarks. I listed, this might not have gotten Fed- struction of a residential substance wish to spend a minute talking about eral support if that community had not abuse treatment center for women and that 1 percent of this funding. come to me as their Senator and if I their children in Sioux Falls, SD; The fact is, this is money that is had not been able to work hard, as my $617,000 for a new building for the Hous- being directed to critical needs in our job is, to secure money in this appro- ton food bank in Houston, TX; and communities, projects that our local priations bill. I am proud I can include $190,000 to build low-income housing in leaders say they badly need so they can funding for programs that help my con- New Orleans. These and dozens of other keep people safe or help them fund stituents. projects are going to help families who housing or ensure that local businesses We have heard these projects called are hungry or veterans who are home- stay strong. insulting and wasteful. Tell that to the less. They will enable parents to get Opposing that money means opposing commuters in Walla Walla. Tell that to access to high-quality childcare and new jobs, updating infrastructure and the families trying to keep their homes families to find safe, affordable hous- economic opportunity in local commu- in Seattle. Tell that to law enforce- ing. They are good projects, and I am nities, including many in my home ment personnel in Bellingham in sure the Republican Senators who put State at a time when communities Whatcom County. them in these bills did so because they across this country need all the help Washington State is 2,500 miles away know this money will make a real dif- they can get to recover from this eco- from this Nation’s Capitol. When I ference for people in their commu- nomic crisis. For example, this bill income to DC, it is my responsibility to nities. They know that if they didn’t cludes $3 million to help widen a very fight for my home State. I don’t want fight for funding in this bill, it is going dangerous stretch of road between to leave the decisions about what is to be up to some DC bureaucrat who Walla Walla and Pasco in my home best for Washington up to a bureaucrat might not know that the Houston food State of Washington. in an agency who has never been to or bank needs a new roof or that there is Now, in the last 18 years, there have even heard of Walla Walla or Pasco or a real need for an emergency shelter at been over 1,000 accidents on that Blaine, who has no idea who the people Women’s Bay, AK. All of these create stretch of highway. Over 400 people in those communities are or what their jobs. They direct money to vital infra- have been hurt and more than 30 people needs are. The Founders of our Con- structure needs. They help strengthen have died. It is so dangerous a stretch stitution didn’t want that either. In communities for the future. of highway that local officials formed a fact, our Nation’s Founders made it Senators who oppose this bill say it coalition just to fight for funding to clear that the administration has no is full of waste. I doubt any of the Sen- widen that highway. I have been very right to spend money without congres- ators who asked for this money would proud to work with them to help make sional approval. They believed the peo- say their project was money gone to their community safe. The sooner we ple, through their representatives—and waste. I bet neither would the commu- can get that highway fixed the better. that is all of us—should make those de- nities that need the money to help This bill also includes $3 million to cisions. Without congressionally di- shelter families or support businesses reimburse communities in Washington rected spending, the President would or keep people safe. State for some of the cost of protecting have unprecedented power to deter- The point is, just as I don’t expect a our northern border. Now, most of the mine where all of our taxpayer dollars Senator from Oklahoma or Arizona to communities on our northern border are spent. know the needs of Walla Walla or Bel- are very small. But they bear the large It is easy for critics to pull out lingham, I don’t want to tell another burden of protecting our Nation from projects that may sound funny to them Senator that I know their State better international criminals, including drug or make an easy cable news story. than they. We have huge needs in this dealers and potential terrorists, and They do this and then try to paint country today. We cannot afford to tie jailing international fugitives. every bit of congressionally directed this bill up any longer on petty, base- In fact, in Whatcom County, in the spending with one brush. I reject those less arguments. We cannot afford to northern part of my State of Wash- efforts. I reject the notion that each risk shutting down the Government at ington, they spend about $2 million and every bit of spending we direct is the end of the day. from their general fund, from the coun- correct or wasteful. My constituents do I urge colleagues, let’s get this bill ty’s general fund, every year to process too. passed. Let’s move forward. Let’s get these border-related criminal cases. Additionally, unlike the pictures to work addressing the real problems They shoulder, this poor little county, some of my colleagues are trying to Americans face every day. an unfair burden in return for keeping paint, none of this spending is secret. I yield the floor. all of us safe. Last Congress, Democrats led the most The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Those police and sheriffs along the sweeping ethics and earmark reform in ator from Hawaii. border have made it clear to me that history. This year, the Appropriations Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I ask they need help. I was glad to work in Committees in both the House and Sen- permission to speak as chairman of the this bill to help ensure that the Fed- ate went out of their way to volun- Senate Committee on Appropriations eral Government, us, is stepping up to tarily bring that transparency to a new Defense Subcommittee. I realize the support that local county. level. Last year, we reduced earmark Defense bill is not part of this package, This bill includes over $700,000 to spending by 43 percent. After President but I have become quite concerned build 83 studio apartments for chron- Obama won in November, we then went with the debate because I am certain ically homeless and mentally ill people back and cut it by 5 percent more. many of my fellow Americans are now in Seattle, with at least a third of the Each and every earmark in this bill reaching the conclusion that earmarks space designated for homeless veterans. now has a name attached to it. Anyone are evil, that it is a waste, the money Because of this housing money, they who wants to can go online and find is down the drain. are going to have a stable place to live. out who is asking for money and for I would like to share with my col- It will prevent some of the most vul- what. That is the accountability and leagues and refresh their memory as to nerable people in our community from the transparency our constituents de- what some of the funds have been spent falling through the cracks and allow serve and we have provided. for. This may come as a surprise to them the chance to focus on getting Secondly, Democrats are not the many Americans, but breast cancer re- treatment and rebuilding their lives. only ones directing money in this bill. search is in the Defense bill. It is an Cascade Supportive Housing is a key Nearly half of the earmarks Repub- earmark. The National Institutes of part of King County’s 10-year plan to licans object to were inserted by Re- Health has just declared that the finest

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.055 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2757 research on breast cancer is that pro- have ever been involved, in making American people and try to stop this gram. That is an earmark because no campaign contributions. terrible waste of their tax dollars at a one wanted to put in money for breast I also noted that the payment for in- time when Americans are experiencing cancer. Now it is becoming the fad of serting the 14 appropriations—the 14 the most difficult of times. the Nation. It is popular. But it took projects—in this bill to PMA Group With that, I thank the Senator from an earmark to begin that program. We comes to a total of $2.185 million. That Oklahoma again for his courage and his have spent millions of dollars. is not a bad business for 1 year, to get hard work. Then we have an aircraft called the paid $2.185, nearly $2.2 million of the I yield the floor. C–17. It is now the most productive and taxpayers money—for getting Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, could I the best working aircraft we have to porkbarrel projects inserted in appro- inquire of the Chair what the order of carry cargo and personnel. Then we priations bills. It is another reason business is now? have the F–22, a fighter plane that re- why we should take these projects out. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. quires a landing space just about the Many of these projects have been going SCHUMER). Votes are scheduled to begin size of this room. I am citing these be- on for some time and have been receiv- at 5:35. cause these have shortened a war in ing very large amounts of Federal dol- Mr. COBURN. Do we have any ar- Iraq. There is also the Predator, the lars for a long period of time. Most of rangement for the division of time? unmanned vehicle. We send a plane out them are doing the business that could The PRESIDING OFFICER. No, there with no pilot, but it sends back signals be done by the National Science Foun- is no such arrangement. and photographs, makes it possible for dation or done by the Department of Mr. COBURN. I ask unanimous con- the men and women on the field to Defense in competitive bidding, and sent to be recognized and to share that know what is on the other side of the many other ways that funding for time with anybody in opposition. mountain. That is an earmark. It did these various companies and projects Mr. REID. Mr. President, I think the not come out of the mind of the Presi- could have been implemented. Instead, only speakers left are Dr. Coburn and dent of the United States or from the they were inserted in an appropriations myself, so he can go ahead and use any Defense Department. It came from the bill without authorization, without time he wants and if he goes over, I can minds of the members of the com- hearings, and without scrutiny. It is a use my time. mittee. I dare anyone to suggest that very large amount of money—over $10 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- these are evil products. It has helped to million which is being appropriated— ator from Oklahoma. shorten the war. It has helped to save and I am sure the payment to that lob- Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, this lives. It will bring back the brave and bying group comes out of the money amendment is straightforward. There courageous men and women from Iraq. they are able to secure through this is an alleged significant violation of Yes, there are many more I can cite. process. Federal law associated with the firm But I think these few should remind us So a cursory examination of the 14 that was responsible for lobbying for that earmarks are not evil. projects identified revealed over $2 mil- the insertion of these 13 earmarks. I I yield the floor and suggest the ab- lion paid to PMA as a fee for their serv- have not said anything about the qual- sence of a quorum. ices of a lobbying group that secured ity of these earmarks. I have not said The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the earmarks. I think it is another rea- anything about the individuals who ac- clerk will call the roll. son why the Coburn amendment should tually placed them. What I ask my col- The legislative clerk proceeded to be adopted. If the Coburn amendment leagues is, in light of where we are call the roll. is not adopted, then clearly, it is not today, should we not back off and say Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I ask only business as usual in Washington, these should be stricken from the bill unanimous consent that the order for but it indicates without a doubt that at this time until that situation is the quorum call be rescinded. even if the FBI raids your head- clarified? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without quarters, even if the home of the head It is prudent from a couple of stand- objection, it is so ordered. of the lobbying group is raided by the points. The investigation is rolling for- Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, the FBI, your projects will still be inserted ward. We have had private residences Coburn amendment concerning the re- into appropriations bills without au- now searched by the FBI, computers moval of line item appropriations from thorization, without scrutiny, and taken, and information pulled under the bill that were sponsored by a group without competition. subpoenas and search warrants issued called PMA is pending before the Sen- This is a very important vote that is by Federal courts. Do we want to be in ate. I think it would be of interest to coming up. It is only—when I say the midst of passing things that were my colleagues to have some additional ‘‘only’’—$10 million, but this organiza- connected with what appears to be and information about this organization. tion, PMA, has been able to secure is alleged to be improper behavior both I have mentioned before this organi- hundreds of millions of dollars over the in terms of the source of the funds, the zation’s offices were raided in Novem- years for various entities. If we go payment of campaign funds, and the ber in connection with an FBI inves- ahead and do not remove these lobbying efforts on behalf of these tigation into its campaign contribution projects, then it is not only business as firms? practices. According to multiple news usual in Washington, it has hit a new I cast no aspersion on the firms or accounts, the Associated Press re- low. the entities that are getting this, nor ported Tuesday that the home of the I wish to thank the Senator from on the individuals who have placed founder of the PMA group, former Oklahoma for his courage. I am aware, these earmarks. But I can tell my col- House appropriations aide Paul as he is, that it is not the most popular leagues the American people are not Magliochetti, was also raided. Also, by thing to do, to come to the floor and going to be happy if we don’t recognize doing some cursory research, we be- try to eliminate these projects and that maybe there is a checkpoint here came aware that CQ reported last week help work to reform the system that is where we ought to reconsider what we that 104 Members of the House spon- obviously badly broken. are doing in light of the developing sit- sored or cosponsored earmarks for cli- I note the presence of the majority uation around this firm. If we go for- ents of the PMA group in a single bill— leader on the floor. I did note his quote ward and assume there will be prosecu- the fiscal 2008 Defense appropriations today where he said that the amend- tions and convictions, we find our- bill. That set of lawmakers got $1.8 ment is ‘‘a nice try, but there’s no lob- selves in a very uncomfortable position million in campaign contributions bying organization I know of that is of having encouraged it. We also send a from the PMA group and its employees earmarked.’’ signal to other individual lobbying between 2001 and 2008. I also pointed Well, they are identified in the bill as firms that there isn’t a standard of be- out earlier today there was a Wash- according to the legislation or rule we havior to which we will not respond to ington Post story as well as others re- passed last year. It may be a nice try, their lobbying efforts. porting that there are campaign con- but I want to assure the majority lead- I ask my colleagues to take a look at tributors who are listed as being con- er that as long as I am here, I will this not as Members of the Senate but tributors who have no knowledge, nor come to this floor and I will go to the as individual citizens outside of the

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.056 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 Senate in the country, as others look two pilots with six-figure salaries. Ac- Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, I rise in at us and say, What are you doing? cording to the Orange County Great opposition to the Coburn amendment Is there not a point in time—again, I Park Corporation Website, ‘‘The Or- No. 610, which will eliminate, among make the point that the Senator from ange County Great Park Plan will pro- other appropriations requests one that Arizona made that it would be totally vide a wide array of active and passive my colleague from Maine, Senator COL- different if these were authorized ear- uses, including a 2.5 mile canyon and LINS, and I had submitted that would marks, but they are not. They went lake, miles of walking and biking help preserve and rehabilitate historic through the Appropriations Com- trails, a cultural terrace, Orange Coun- lighthouses along the Maine coast. mittee, not the authorizing commit- ty’s largest sports park, a botanical At a time when our economy con- tees. They have never been judged by a garden, and a tethered helium observa- tinues to cascade downward with un- group of our peers. They weren’t voted tion balloon that will be an icon for the employment at record highs, I do be- on; they were inserted. We raise the Great Park. More than 3,885 of the 4,700 lieve it is critical to scrutinize the size specter of whether we can be trust- acres will be dedicated to open space, and scope of spending measures which worthy in front of the American peo- education, and other public uses.’’ is frankly what we did in regard to the ple. We need to work to regain their As found by the Los Angeles Times, recently enacted stimulus package—so trust. the Great Park also includes a $300,000 I understand the impetus behind my I will not say any more. This will tent designed to resemble an airplane colleague’s amendment. At the same speak a lot about our body and what hangar that costs $75,000 a year to time, regrettably, his amendment the American people say. I understand clean; a four-person visitor center crew would potentially harm not only the the votes are lining up. I understand hired under a $370,000 annual contract; existence of an historic emblem of my that. But I will assure you that I will a series of orange dots painted along State and our Nation, but also a key keep coming to the floor on earmarks— the park’s entrance road at a cost of economic catalyst for tourism that is not because I am against earmarks. If $14,000. part and parcel of my home State and you authorize an earmark, I will give Additional costs have included the livelihood of many of her citizens. you your right to do whatever you $838,000 to build a road to the balloon, Each lighthouse tells a different want to do. On unauthorized earmarks plant citrus trees and buy a $300,000 story and each one is as integral to the that aren’t vetted and are put out in special 50-by-50-foot tent that will history and narrative of our State as front of the rest of the Congress and serve as the visitor center, $380,000 a the magnificent landscapes on which the rest of the individuals on commit- year for two balloon pilots, a hostess they proudly stand. That is why, in tees to have a vote on whether they are and maintenance, $100,000 a year for a 1995, I introduced a bill that would a priority, I am going to keep raising balloon replacement fund, $94,000 a later become law to establish the that issue. I am sorry if that is irri- year for portable restrooms, $52,000 an- Maine Lights Program. We succeeded tating, but that is the way it is going nually for security between 1 and 5 in preserving this significant compo- to be. a.m., and $30,000 a year for trash re- nent of American heritage through col- moval. Mr. President, Senator BOXER de- laboration among the Federal Govern- This appropriation of almost half a fended an earmark she sponsored that I ment, the State of Maine, local com- million dollars could have gone to any have singled out as an example of mis- munities, and private organizations, of these initiatives none of which placed priorities. while at the same time, relieving what sound like true national priorities. The Boxer earmark, which is one of Local county officials were, in fact, had become a costly strain on the U.S. nearly 9,000 tucked into this bill, is outraged with what local funds were Coast Guard. Across the country, responsibility for listed on page 100 of the bill’s report being appropriated for. The bulk of the the care of our lighthouses has been as- and is described only as $475,000 ‘‘for first $52 million the city spent on this improvements to the Orange County project went to hire a team of dozens of sumed by nonprofit historic societies— Great Park’’ from the Economic Devel- design, engineering and public rela- many of which are struggling in these opment Initiatives to ‘‘Orange County tions consultants, to build the balloon uncertain economic times. That is why Great Park Corporation, CA.’’ ride and to pay administrative staff. this bill would appropriate $380,000 to Nothing more is stated as to the pur- ‘‘To have nothing more than a bal- the American Lighthouse Foundation, pose or intent of this earmark. loon and the possibility of a 27-acre stewards of 11 of Maine’s 83 historic Senator BOXER claimed that my crit- park is disappointing,’’ said county Su- lighthouses. icism of this earmark was an insult to pervisor Bill Campbel, ‘‘ They’re spend- I believe that the essential word in veterans in her state. This is appar- ing a lot on engineers, PR people and my previous sentence is ‘‘stewards’’— ently because the unwritten and un- other things, and they’re not deliv- because the structures are still feder- specified intention of the earmark ac- ering.’’ ally owned property. It is not private cording to her statement is to restore State Assemblyman Todd Spitzer—a property, it is not city or town prop- the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station Republican from Orange Country—also erty or even State property, but Fed- Hangar Number 244 into a history mu- criticized the city for not building eral property. It is also imperative to seum and welcoming center. recreation facilities that could be used note that these lighthouses are oper- The reality is this type of legislating by the public, while wasting money on able aids to navigation. Lighthouses without transparency is an insult to all ‘‘a ridiculous, oversized balloon and may seem a quaint relic of a bygone taxpayers. free rides.’’ era, however they are not an anachro- With nearly 9,000 earmarks in this With a state-wide unemployment nism. Daily, lighthouses lead our Na- bill described with nothing more than a rate at over 10 percent and almost 2 tion’s mariners and fishermen away few words or a single vague phrase, it million unemployed, Californians may from danger. is next to impossible for anyone other also prefer these funds to be spent on Given that the maintenance of light- than the Senators and lobbyists who other more pressing priorities. houses is now being transferred under requested these earmarks to know the While we all want to honor the great the National Lighthouse Preservation real intent of how billions of dollars in sacrifices or our veterans, I do not be- Act from Federal ownership to non- taxpayer dollars are intended to be lieve this earmark is a national pri- profit historical societies like the spent. ority, especially in light of the poor American Lighthouse Foundation, the As I found from statements made by local spending decisions made in the task of providing the required re- the Senator from California and the past on this ambitious municipal park sources to ensure the longevity and vi- Great Park’s own Website, the Great project. Perhaps this money and the ability of these lighthouses would also Park ‘‘will be larger than New York’s billions spent on the other pork represent a welcomed economic boost Central Park and San Francisco’s projects in this bill could have been both to tourism and also to job cre- Golden Gate Park COMBINED.’’ better spent on veterans health care or ation. This municipal park is expected to survivor benefits for the spouses and The fact is, tourism has become in- cost $1.1 billion. Its main attraction is families of those who lost their lives creasingly crucial to Maine’s economy, a massive helium balloon operated by fighting for our great Nation. as manufacturing jobs have fled our

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.057 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2759 State, not to mention our Nation. In the myriad activities that have been and relevant to improving the lives of fact, in 2006, the most recent year for planned in the Harpers Ferry area our constituents. which statistics are available, approxi- throughout this year to highlight the For example, the tattoo removal ear- mately one-fifth of State sales tax rev- relevance of John Brown’s raid to the mark on this list is for a program run enues were attributable to tourism, history of this country. Ultimately, by Providence Holy Cross Hospital in and, when income and fuel taxes are the Interior Appropriations Sub- Mission Hills, CA, to remove gang in- added, the Maine State government committee, rather than supporting di- signia tattoos of reforming gang mem- collected $429 million tourism-related rect funding, included language to pro- bers. It is an effective anti-crime pro- tax dollars in that year. vide the National Park Service the au- gram founded by Sister June The Maine State Planning Office, thority to expend up to $300,000 for the Wilkerson. which has quantified more precisely anniversary effort. For ex-gang members, having a tat- the pivotal role tourism plays in the The Park Service is expecting that too often means not getting hired for a Maine economy, found that in 2006, nearly 100,000 people will participate in job, or beaten or killed. It is that sim- tourism generated $10 billion in sales of the series of reenactments, dramatic ple. It is that effective. goods and services, 140,000 jobs, and $3 productions, family activities, and spe- I have a few comments about the bill billion in earnings. Tourism accounts cial tours that have been planned by as a whole and earmarks. I would also for one in five dollars of sales through- the John Brown Sesquicentennial like to note that this bill reflects a re- out Maine’s economy and supported Quad-State Committee. Supporting the duction in earmarks of 45 percent from the equivalent of one in six Maine jobs. events for such crowds at the Harpers fiscal year 2006 and a 5-percent reduc- The Planning Office also discovered Ferry National Historical Park will tion from last year. These initiatives are not a surprise that an estimated 10 million overnight largely be the burden of the National to anyone in this chamber. Every ear- trips and 30 million day trips were Park Service. Without the additional mark in this bill is on the Internet. taken that year in Maine, with trav- support, the agency reports that elers spending nearly $1 billion on lodg- A few Members are simply trying to planned activities at Harpers Ferry pick a project here and a project there ing, $3 billion on food, and $1 billion on would likely have to be reduced in recreational activities. to attack to further their effort to scope by 75 percent. amend and delay passage and possibly But those statistics are from 3 years As a Congress, we should be doing all kill this bill. ago—before the economy began to un- in our power to keep the unique his- ravel at an accelerating rate, and so We need to finish our work here. tory of our country alive and accessible I have no problems with reforming given these economic times con- to anyone who wants to learn. In better fronting all of us, the financial neces- the way we do business, in fact, in our understanding the significance of the sity of our lighthouses, especially to continuing effort to provide unprece- Harpers Ferry raid, we learn about our tourism, has grown, not dissipated. dented transparency to the process, And so, I urge my colleagues to de- Nation’s failures, our mistakes, and Chairman OBEY and I announced fur- feat this amendment and send a mes- the inequities of our past. But we also ther reforms to begin with the 2010 sage not only that historic preserva- learn about the values and ideals upon bills, including: (1) a further reduction tion of our nation’s prominent build- which our Nation was founded—the in earmarks. We have committed to re- ings and structures—like our light- values and ideals that have inspired ducing earmarks to 50 percent from fis- houses—continues to be in the national the American people throughout our cal year 2006 level; (2) posting requests interest, but also that tourism is an in- history. Writing about the thousands online to offer more opportunity for dustry we should be striving to support of soldiers who lost their lives during public scrutiny of member requests. as a key antidote to our ailing econ- the Civil War battle at Antietam, his- Members will be required to post infor- omy. torian Bruce Catton explained that mation on their earmark requests on Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, my col- those men did not die for a few feet of their web sites at the time the request league from Oklahoma has offered an a cornfield or a rocky hill. They died is made explaining the purpose of the amendment which seeks to eliminate that this country might be permitted earmark and why it is a valuable use of funding for 11 initiatives. Among those to go on, and that it might be per- taxpayer funds; and (3) early public dis- initiatives he seeks to eliminate is lan- mitted to fulfill the great hope of our closure to increase public scrutiny of guage authorizing the National Park Founding Fathers. committee decisions. Service to expend up to $300,000 to de- So may be said of all those coura- Earmark disclosure tables will be fray the costs of the events associated geous men who participated in the his- made publically available the same day with the 150th anniversary of John toric raid on Harpers Ferry. They paid as the House or Senate subcommittee Brown’s raid on the arsenal at Harpers the ultimate sacrifice to permit this rather than full committee reports Ferry. country to go on, to fulfill the great their bill or 24 hours before full com- For those whose memories need re- hope of our Founding Fathers. They mittee consideration of appropriations freshing, on the evening of October 16, sacrificed to promote and to protect legislation that has not been marked 1859, abolitionist John Brown led a the freedom and liberties of all Ameri- up by a Senate subcommittee. group of men to Harpers Ferry to seize cans. As President Abraham Lincoln I urge my colleagues to oppose this control of the town and steal weapons said of those soldiers who fell in the amendment. from the old Federal armory to be used Battle of Gettysburg, they ‘‘gave their The PRESIDING OFFICER. The main the cause against slavery. By the lives that this Nation might live.’’ jority leader is recognized. morning of October 18, the engine Without this knowledge of our herit- Mr. REID. Mr. President, if I don’t house, later known as John Brown’s age, we cannot appreciate the hard-won finish my remarks before 5:35, I ask Fort, was surrounded by a company of freedoms that are now our birthright. that everybody recognize that the vote U.S. Marines under the command of As I have said before, one does not pro- may occur a minute or two right after COL Robert E. Lee of the U.S. Army. tect what one does not value. And one 5:35. With most of his men either dead or does not value what one does not un- This amendment directs the Senate captured, John Brown was taken into derstand. to eliminate 13 separate science and custody, tried, and found guilty of Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, many of education projects from this bill. The treason, conspiring with slaves to my colleagues whose spending initia- Senator from Oklahoma claims these rebel, and murder. Although John tives are under attack by this amend- projects are somehow associated with a Brown’s short-lived raid on Harpers ment have spoken today to provide a lobbying outfit that is under some kind Ferry failed, his trial and execution more detailed explanation of what the of an investigation. He acknowledges helped to focus the Nation’s attention funding would be used for. that the quality of the congressionally on the moral issue of slavery and con- If we took the time to listen, we dis- directed spending is not questioned, stituted a major step toward the Civil covered that what may appear frivo- that the persons whose names are asso- War. lous based on a three word description ciated with these congressionally di- I had requested $300,000 to enable the is actually relevant to the programs rected funding matters are not in ques- National Park Service to fully support under which the funding is provided, tion. So what is this all about?

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.060 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2760 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 I wish to remind my colleagues of the day, he filed a completely different The assistant legislative clerk read many reforms this Congress has im- amendment, No. 623, which he called to as follows: posed on the earmarking process. The the floor. That amendment purported CLOTURE MOTION days of unlimited and unaccountable to list earmarks in this bill that are as- We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- congressionally directed spending are sociated with this suspect lobbying or- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the gone. Those days are behind us. We ganization. Then, after he presented Standing Rules of the Senate, hereby move passed the most sweeping ethics and No. 623 to the Senate, he realized he to bring to a close debate on H.R. 1105, the lobbying reform in the history of the had a project listed in this amendment Omnibus Appropriations Act. country—and rightfully so. We have for DePaul University that probably Harry Reid, Daniel K. Inouye, Patty never gone beyond that. had absolutely nothing to do with this Murray, E. Benjamin Nelson, Mark L. Last year, when we were back in lobbying group. So he got consent—we Pryor, Amy Klobuchar, Debbie power for the first time in a number of didn’t object to changing the amend- Stabenow, Bernard Sanders, Patrick J. ment—to remove that project from the Leahy, Sheldon Whitehouse, Byron L. years, we Democrats dramatically re- Dorgan, Richard Durbin, Charles E. duced the volume of earmarks in the list. Schumer, Jack Reed, Barbara A. Mi- bills—by 43 percent. In this bill, we re- That is the central point. We don’t kulski, Mary L. Landrieu, Jon Tester, duced them another 5 percent. The vol- necessarily know who the lobbying Tom Harkin. groups are behind the projects that are ume of earmarks is less than half what Mr. REID. Mr. President, I indicated asked to be appropriated by Members they were in 2006 when our Republican to my friend, the distinguished Repub- of Congress, just as Senator COBURN colleagues were in the majority. lican leader, that I would file a cloture didn’t know who the lobbyist was for Just as important, under our re- motion. I didn’t tell him when. I said it this project for DePaul. We don’t in- forms, each and every congressionally would be today. One reason I am doing directed spending earmark in this bill clude earmarks at the behest of lobbyists; we include them at the behest of it now is that during the day we have is fully disclosed and transparent to had scores of other amendments filed. the public. What does that mean? Each elected Members of Congress. That is what the Appropriations Committee It is obvious there is no effort to help of these is backed by a letter from a us pass this extremely important legis- House or Senate sponsor certifying does. There are famous firms in town— lation. I think the time has come to that they and their family members bring it to a close. We can vote either have absolutely no financial interest in Tommy Boggs—everybody knows Pat- ton Boggs, but that firm has nothing in Friday morning or we can vote some- the earmark. For every one of these time tomorrow. Other amendments earmarks, the name of the grantee and here. They are a big lobbying outfit. Their name doesn’t appear on any- will be offered, and I understand that. the House or Senate sponsor are posted We will work with the minority as to on the Internet for the public to see. So thing. The only thing that appears is what is in the RECORD, and it is so what those amendments should be. We there is the name of the person re- know we have three pending. I have questing it, a certification that no one transparent, you could not try to hide anything if you wanted to anymore. talked to a number of other Senators benefits from it other than the person You have to list everything, and it ap- on the Republican side who want to to whom the money is directed, and pears in the RECORD days before we offer amendments. We will take those they are posted on the Internet before vote on it. into consideration. any of these are voted on in the House For the projects I champion in Ne- Mr. President, I ask that the manda- or Senate. vada, I don’t check to find out if a lob- tory quorum be waived. This amendment is the third separate byist cared. I don’t really care, Mr. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without amendment the Senator from Okla- President. A lot of my constituents in objection, it is so ordered. homa sought to present to the Senate the city of Las Vegas, Clark County; Mr. REID. I yield the floor. on this topic of congressionally di- the city of Reno, Boulder City; North The PRESIDING OFFICER. The rected spending. Everybody knows how Las Vegas, and the universities have question is on agreeing to amendment I feel about these. I am a Member of lobbyists. I don’t give those entities I No. 610, offered by Senator COBURN. the Congress of the United States. I be- just mentioned an earmark because Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask for lieve in the Constitution. I believe that some lobbyist asked for it. I support the yeas and nays. when the Founding Fathers set up this projects in Nevada because they are The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a country, they set up three separate and brought to me by my mayors, commu- sufficient second? There is a sufficient equal branches of Government. What nity organizations, and universities. I second. Congress has been doing since we be- support them because I believe they The clerk will call the roll. came a country is have the Congress will improve the lives of people in my The assistant legislative clerk called involved in where spending takes place. State. the roll. I have an obligation to the people of We cannot start picking and elimi- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the Nevada to make sure there is not some nating earmarks because we think we Senator from North Dakota (Mr. bureaucrat down in one of these big of- know who the lobbyist may be, just CONRAD) and the Senator from Massa- fices in Washington, DC, who deter- like DePaul University. Lobbyists chusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) are necessarily mines every penny spent in Nevada. I don’t face the voters. Lobbyists are not absent. think I have a better outlook on this accountable for the merits of these Mr. KYL. The following Senators are than a lot of people who are bureau- projects, and nobody has focused more necessarily absent: the Senator from crats. I have been here going on 27 attention on lobbyists than President Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS) and the Sen- years, and I have done my best to di- Obama. Congressmen and Senators are ator from Alabama (Mr. SESSIONS). rect congressional spending to places accountable for these projects, not lob- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there in Nevada where I think it helped. It byists. Congressmen and Senators will any other Senators in the Chamber de- has helped. I am one who believes we be held accountable by constituents, siring to vote? are going to reduce these earmarks not lobbyists. Every one of these objec- The result was announced—yeas 34, even more. We have made that com- tions to funding that the Senator from nays 61, as follows: mitment. But no one should lecture me Oklahoma has raised has the name of a on what my role is as a Member of Con- Member of Congress by it. That is the [Rollcall Vote No. 79 Leg.] gress. person responsible. YEAS—34 I say that this amendment, I repeat, I hope my colleagues will join me in Barrasso Crapo Inhofe is the third separate amendment the defeating this vexatious amendment Bayh DeMint Isakson Senator from Oklahoma has sought to which is without any foundation. Bennet Ensign Kyl Brownback Enzi Lugar present on this topic. A couple of days CLOTURE MOTION Bunning Feingold Martinez ago, the Senator filed amendment No. Mr. President, I send a cloture mo- Burr Graham McCain 609 to address this lobbying outfit tion to the desk. Chambliss Grassley McConnell Coburn Gregg Nelson (FL) known as PMA. I don’t even know what The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Corker Hatch that stands for; I have no idea. Yester- clerk will read the motion. Cornyn Hutchison

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.061 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2761 Risch Thune Vitter McConnell Roberts Vitter The other three amendments have Roberts Udall (CO) Wicker Murkowski Shelby Wicker Nelson (FL) Snowe had some discussion but we will have NAYS—61 Risch Thune to have some more because, of course, Akaka Gillibrand Nelson (NE) NAYS—52 they were laid down yesterday. Alexander Hagan Pryor I think that gives the body an under- Baucus Harkin Reed Akaka Harkin Reed standing of where we are and where we Begich Inouye Reid Baucus Inouye Reid Bennett Johnson Rockefeller Begich Johnson Rockefeller are going to go tomorrow. We will Bingaman Kaufman Sanders Bingaman Kaufman Sanders probably come in about 9:30 tomorrow Boxer Kerry Bond Kerry Schumer Schumer and try to work through these amend- Brown Kohl Boxer Klobuchar Shaheen Shaheen Brown Kohl Burris Landrieu ments. Shelby Specter Burris Landrieu Byrd Lautenberg Stabenow The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Snowe Cantwell Leahy Byrd Lautenberg Tester ator from Mississippi is recognized. Cantwell Leahy Specter Cardin Levin Udall (CO) AMENDMENTS NOS. 634, 613, AND 638 Cardin Levin Stabenow Carper Lieberman Udall (NM) Carper Lieberman Tester Casey McCaskill Mr. COCHRAN. Madam President, in Voinovich Casey Lincoln Udall (NM) Dodd Menendez Warner keeping with the statement of the ma- Cochran McCaskill Voinovich Dorgan Merkley jority leader, I ask unanimous consent Collins Menendez Warner Durbin Mikulski Webb Dodd Merkley Webb Feinstein Murray Whitehouse that the pending amendments be set Dorgan Mikulski Whitehouse Gillibrand Nelson (NE) Wyden aside and that amendment No. 634 by Durbin Murkowski Wyden Hagan Pryor Senator KYL, No. 613 by Senator Feinstein Murray NOT VOTING—4 INHOFE, and No. 638 by Senator CRAPO NOT VOTING—4 Conrad Kennedy be called up. Conrad Kennedy Johanns Sessions The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Johanns Sessions The amendment (No. 623), as modi- objection? The amendment (No. 610) was re- fied, was rejected. Without objection, it is so ordered. jected. Mrs. MURRAY. Madam President, I The clerk will report. Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I move to reconsider the vote and I move The legislative clerk read as follows: move to reconsider the vote. to lay that motion on the table. The Senator from Mississippi [Mr. COCH- Mr. LEAHY. I move to lay that mo- The motion to lay on the table was RAN], for Mr. KYL, proposes an amendment tion on the table. agreed to. numbered 634. Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, I The Senator from Mississippi [Mr. COCH- The motion to lay on the table was RAN], for Mr. INHOFE, proposes an amend- agreed to. suggest the absence of a quorum. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ment numbered 613. AMENDMENT NO. 623, AS MODIFIED clerk will call the roll. The Senator from Mississippi [Mr. COCH- The PRESIDING OFFICER. There The bill clerk proceeded to call the RAN], for Mr. CRAPO, for himself, Mr. VITTER, will now be 2 minutes of debate equally and Mr. CORKER, proposes an amendment roll. numbered 638. divided before a vote on amendment Mr. REID. Madam President, I ask No. 623, as modified. unanimous consent the order for the The amendments are as follows: The Senator from Oklahoma. quorum call be rescinded. AMENDMENT NO. 634 Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, I yield The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (Purpose: To prohibit the expenditure of back my time. objection, it is so ordered. amounts made available under this Act in Mrs. MURRAY. I yield back our Mr. REID. Madam President, we have a contract with any company that has a business presence in Iran’s energy sector) time. now pending three votes; three amend- The PRESIDING OFFICER. All time ments are still pending. I have spoken At the appropriate place, insert the following: is expired. to the distinguished manager of the bill on the Republican side. He wishes SEC. ll. (a) Except as provided under sub- The yeas and nays have not been or- section (b), none of the funds made available dered. to offer an amendment on behalf of under this Act may be spent by a Federal Mr. COBURN. I ask for the yeas and Senator KYL, Senator CRAPO, and one agency in a new contract or other expendi- nays. by Senator INHOFE. Is that right, I say ture of Federal funds with a company identi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a through the Chair to my friend from fied by the Department of the Treasury Of- sufficient second? Mississippi? fice of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) as There is a sufficient second. Mr. COCHRAN. Madam President, having a business presence in Iran’s energy sector, including Iran’s refineries, gasoline, The clerk will call the roll. the leader is correct. Mr. REID. That gives us six votes to refined petroleum products, and oil and nat- The bill clerk called the roll. work out sometime tomorrow. I think, ural gas fields. Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the from our perspective, we are drawing (b) The President may waive the applica- Senator from North Dakota (Mr. tion of subsection (a), on a case-by-case to the end of a little situation on which CONRAD) and the Senator from Massa- basis, if the President— we have been here all week. I think we chusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) are necessarily (1) determines that such waiver is nec- have given everyone the opportunity to absent. essary for the national security interests of offer amendments. We have filed now the United States; and Mr. KYL. The following Senators are about 70-some-odd amendments. I (2) submits an unclassified report to Con- necessarily absent: the Senator from think we have been more than reason- gress, with a classified annex if necessary, Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS) and the Sen- able on this bill. The time for this CR that describes the reasons such waiver is ator from Alabama (Mr. SESSIONS). runs out the day after tomorrow. necessary. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Ms. Originally, as some will recall, Fri- AMENDMENT NO. 613 CANTWELL). Are there any other Sen- day was listed as a ‘‘no vote’’ day and (Purpose: To provide that no funds may be ators in the Chamber desiring to vote? we were hopeful that could take place. made available to make any assessed con- The result was announced—yeas 43, I am still hopeful we can work out tribution or voluntary payment of the nays 52, as follows: something tomorrow. If we cannot United States to the United Nations if the [Rollcall Vote No. 80 Leg.] United Nations implements or imposes any work out something with the minority taxation on any United States persons) YEAS—43 tomorrow, we will have a cloture vote, On page 942, between lines 14 and 15, insert Alexander Cochran Gregg probably about 9:30 on Friday. We hope the following: Barrasso Collins Hatch that is not necessary but that we will RESTRICTION ON ASSESSED CONTRIBUTIONS AND Bayh Corker Hutchison see. We are going to do our best. Bennet Cornyn Inhofe VOLUNTARY PAYMENTS TO UNITED NATIONS Bennett Crapo Isakson I have been informed by the distinguished manager of the bill on the Re- SEC. 7093. None of the funds appropriated Bond DeMint Klobuchar or otherwise made available under any title Brownback Ensign Kyl publican side that he believes that each of this Act may be made available to make Bunning Enzi Lincoln of the three Senators—CRAPO, INHOFE Burr Feingold Lugar any assessed contribution or voluntary pay- Chambliss Graham Martinez and KYL—would agree to time agreement of the United States to the United Na- Coburn Grassley McCain ments on their amendments. tions if the United Nations implements or

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.025 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2762 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 imposes any taxation on any United States Total Funding Jason helped us fight a 10-year battle persons. Outlays ...... 1,104,500 and finally was successful. Senate 302(a) allocation: AMENDMENT NO. 638 The people of all of Louisiana will be Budget Authority ...... 1,012,686 grateful for many years for his service. (Purpose: To strike a provision relating to Outlays ...... 1,107,004 Federal Trade Commission authority over House-Passed Bill Com- He has led the people of Louisiana to home mortgages) pared To: great achievements. He has served the Strike section 626 of title VI, of Division D. Senate 302(a) allocation: people of our country well. I wanted to (At the request of Mr. REID, the fol- Budget Authority ...... 0 pay tribute to him today and to wish lowing statement was ordered to be Outlays ...... ¥2,504 him the best as he goes on to future en- printed in the RECORD.) Note: The bill also includes $100 million in emer- deavors here in the Washington, DC, gency funding for the Secret Service.∑ ∑ Mr. CONRAD. Madam President, I area. wish to offer for the record the Budget Mr. REID. Madam President, I sug- f gest the absence of a quorum. Committee’s official scoring of H.R. TROUBLED ASSET RELIEF PRO- 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll. GRAM OVERSIGHT ENHANCE- for fiscal year 2009. MENT ACT The bill, as passed by the House, pro- The bill clerk proceeded to call the Mr. INHOFE. Madam President, to vides $407.6 billion in nonemergency roll. date, over 380 companies have received discretionary budget authority, BA, for Mr. WARNER. Madam President, I some $300 billion taxpayer dollars from fiscal year 2009, which will result in ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded. the Troubled Asset Relief Program, new outlays of $244.5 billion. When out- supposedly to improve their financial lays from prior-year budget authority The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. stability. These include some of the are taken into account, discretionary largest corporations and financial in- f outlays for the bill will total $468.1 bil- stitutions in America. lion. MORNING BUSINESS Yet in recent years, many of these The bill also includes $100 million in Mr. WARNER. Madam President, I same firms found enough money to emergency discretionary BA for 2009 ask unanimous consent that the Sen- contribute annually to some of the resulting in $85 million in new outlays ate proceed to a period of morning most radical organizations in the na- for the Secret Service. business, with Senators permitted to tion. When the nonemergency funding in speak therein for up to 10 minutes They have donated large sums to H.R. 1105 is combined with the funding each. ACORN, Friends of the Earth, Planned included in H.R 2638, the Consolidated The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Parenthood, the Natural Resources De- Security, Disaster Assistance, and Con- objection, it is so ordered. fense Council, and Conservation Inter- tinuing Appropriations Act for fiscal national Foundation, to name just a year 2009, the overall level equals the f few. The vast majority of Americans do Appropriations Committee’s 302(a) al- HONORING JASON MATTHEWS not support the agendas of these fringe location for budget authority and is Ms. LANDRIEU. Madam President, I groups, whose excesses have been well- $2.5 billion below the committee’s allo- wish to pay tribute to a young man documented over the years. cation for outlays. who worked for me for many years—ac- Companies that get bailed out cannot carry on as if it were business as usual. Each appropriations subcommittee tually, for 12 years. He has been a very They should not grab for taxpayer dol- included in H.R. 1105 is at its respective vital part of the Landrieu staff. He is lars help with one hand and give money 302(b) suballocation for budget author- retired. He left our office after 12 years to these radical organizations with the ity and outlays. of wonderful service. other. The bill would cause the 2009 budget Jason Matthews started out with me resolution spending aggregates to be That is why I have introduced the as an assistant in my first campaign Troubled Asset Relief Program Over- exceeded and would therefore be sub- for the Senate as literally a young kid ject to a point of order under Section sight Enhancement Act. right out of college. He worked his way This legislation would let us see how 311(a)(2)(A) of the Congressional Budget up. He had no real political connec- Act. In addition, several provisions in these companies are spending their tions other than just a passion for the money. If they are not focused on in- the bill make changes in mandatory work, a heart for people, and a good programs—CHIMPs—that are subject creasing their solvency or liquidity, if mind. He came to Washington with me they are not working on lending to to a point of order under section 314 of 12 years ago and started out, maybe S. Con. Res. 70, the concurrent budget small businesses and individuals, if even answering the phones some days, they are not helping get this economy resolution for fiscal year 2009. Finally, and worked his way up as military LA the bill includes an emergency designa- back on track, and are instead financ- and then as legislative director and ing extremist organizations, then the tion pursuant to section 204 of S. Con. then general counsel and then left our Res. 21, the concurrent resolution on American people need to know about office with the title chief of staff. it. the budget for fiscal year 2008. No other Besides serving with such great points of order lie against the bill as ‘‘Transparency’’ is one of the new humor and a great mind for policy and, watchwords in Washington. Let’s have passed by the House. as I said, a great heart for people, he I ask unanimous consent that the some of that transparency for the sake served with great cheer through very of the American taxpayers, who de- table displaying the Budget Committee difficult times that our office and scoring of the bill be printed in the serve to see how these companies are many of my colleagues from Louisiana behaving after receiving hard-earned RECORD. have been through considering the There being no objection, the mate- tax dollars. storms of the past recent years and the f rial was ordered to be printed in the extra work our staffs have had to go RECORD, as follows: through because of them. Jason led IDAHOANS SPEAK OUT ON HIGH HR. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 that effort with good humor. Because ENERGY PRICES [Spending comparisons—House Passed Bill (in of him, many wonderful accomplish- Mr. CRAPO. Madam President, in millions of dollars)] ments in our office have been achieved. mid-June, I asked Idahoans to share Total Funding One I will mention, and I will share the with me how high energy prices are af- House-Passed Bill: rest for the record, is Louisiana’s long- fecting their lives, and they responded Budget Authority ...... 407,602 standing effort to achieve some bal- by the hundreds. The stories, num- Outlays ...... 468,067 ance and fairness in the distribution of bering well over 1,200, are heart- Previously-enacted: Budget Authority ...... 605,084 oil and gas royalties and revenues breaking and touching. While energy Outlays ...... 636,433 which interior States have enjoyed prices have dropped in recent weeks, Total: since 1927 and coastal States have not the concerns expressed remain very rel- Budget Authority ...... 1,012,686 because of the peculiarity in the law. evant. To respect the efforts of those

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.023 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2763 who took the opportunity to share make my supplies last me a lot longer. Since The argument that oil companies have their thoughts, I am submitting every the price of gas has gone so high, I have a lot ‘‘lots of unused land they have leases on’’ is e-mail sent to me through an address less money to buy food after I fill my truck an argument from someone with no idea of set up specifically for this purpose to with gas. I go nowhere else except to the doc- how the system works. The companies lease tor. the land to explore and then develop when it the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD. This is not Congress talks about everyone conserving is profitable. The oil companies know the po- an issue that will be easily resolved, and using less, but how much less do you in- tential of lands under their leases by geo- but it is one that deserves immediate tend for us to conserve. We could go back to logic maps and test drilling, and for many and serious attention, and Idahoans de- the 18th century and become a Third World areas the time/price is not right for extrac- serve to be heard. Their stories not country, but that seems a little bleak, does tion of that oil to be profitable. On other only detail their struggles to meet ev- not it! I do not understand why our Con- acres under lease there may be no oil at all! Oil speculation is another issue that keeps eryday expenses, but also have sugges- gressmen are working so hard to make it a reality. us on high alert. I understand the rules have tions and recommendations as to what Congress also tells us to use alternative been changed to allow wild speculation with- Congress can do now to tackle this sources of energy, but there are no sources out controls. It is time for the US to become problem and find solutions that last be- available, affordable, or viable. Congress is energy self-sufficient, including the use of yond today. I ask unanimous consent making laws to force us to use energy our own oil, wind and other resources. to have today’s letters printed in the sources that have not been invented yet (just JAMES, Boise. RECORD. talked about) or have not been perfected. Please weigh the consequences of your ac- So, how are gas prices affecting us? Not There being no objection, the mate- much. You see, we have always considered it rial was ordered to be printed in the tions. The quality of life and the security of America are at stake. Please tell your fellow a civic duty to try and limit our use of our RECORD, as follows: Congressmen to do what is best for our sur- natural resources. We drive modest, fuel-effi- I run a small 1-man truck brokerage busi- vival and our way of life. cient cars. We choose to live in an area that ness. The fuel prices are all but driving my JIM. allows us options to use alternate transpor- company out of business. The quotes I re- tation such as bicycles, public transport, and ceive from truckers leave little to no room We can all say our woes, and how much it walking. I am not writing this to be smug. for me to make a living. I have been in the cost, but we have to keep going. What I do My point is that citizens can, and should, transportation business for over twenty not get it, why are we not using our own re- take measures to reduce their use of fossil years and this is the first time I feel I will sources? Why are we not becoming self suffi- fuels. Nowhere in the Constitution does it have close my company. Any assistance that cient. If we are ever under attack, I ask you, guarantee cheap gas. can be offered to help lower fuel prices would who will come to our aid? Exactly—no one! Just as I think the citizens have a duty to be greatly appreciated. Also, health care We need to pull back to the basics here. We limit their use of natural resources, I think needs a serious reform. For the first time in are fighting terrorist, as rightly we should. our political leaders need to make the tough my adult life, my insurance premiums ex- But, they cannot just hurt us with guns and call and instead of reading melodramatic let- ceed my home mortgage payment. If all this bombs. They can infect our food we receive ters about someone not being able visit their keeps up, I will be forced to choose between from overseas, send disease, and undermine dying relative, explain to them that the days my home and my insurance. My vote this our food sources, our fuel sources. This does of cheap gas are gone and we need to invest next election depends on who is willing to not take a rocket scientist to figure out. I in public transport and more fuel efficient actually help with these issues. Something am just a wife, mother, grandmother work- vehicles. The drumbeat for more drilling is must change soon or millions of Americans ing her everyday job and I can see the light. not the answer either. Our political leaders will be in financial trouble. America needs to wake up before we are in are doing a disservice to us by bringing up the issue. We need to wean ourselves from RANDY. worse shape than we are now. We send so much overseas. Send them the knowledge to our reliance on oil and not add to it. Boise is a great city and could be a leader We need to let technology repair this gas care for themselves. We import so much; in innovative alternatives to gas guzzling ve- war. It has been said that necessity is the why-I have no idea. Wonder why we have so hicles caught in gridlock. It will take strong mother of invention. We need to loosen up on many out-of-work people. We do nothing but political will and citizens ready to do their new oil well drilling and other forms of en- outsource everything and take away from civic duty to their neighbors and their chil- ergy. The communities that have the wind our own American families. And why? turbines and oil wells should have cheaper I have lived in Nebraska and Kansas; I see dren. IM, power and fuel. It really eats at Idahoans in oil pumps standing still. Can you please ex- T Boise. Idaho Falls to have wind turbines in our plain why that is? I see no reason. Please, If we would drill for our own oil instead of yards and not reap the benefits. We need a this is your country going down the tubes allowing our enemies drill for our oil it few nuclear reactors making energy and eth- and no one is going to save it but us. would make a big difference. Another anol. We need to remove fields from CRP and CINDY. thought that might help would be to at least give farmers incentives to plant. We need limit the amount of refined oil that leaves technology to invent better engines that use Thank you for the opportunity to express our country and keep it here it would also higher blends of ethanol and less oil-based my thoughts on the current gasoline price/ make a big difference. oil price fiasco. As an retiree in the state of fuels. In the meantime, record numbers of BOB and CINDY. Americans are going to go broke. I person- Idaho, I have a fixed income. It is not quite ally have cut back my driving by half. to the point of ‘‘gas or food,’’ but could be Thank you for the opportunity to speak TODD, Idaho Falls. soon under the current trend. We have sig- out. I have lived in Idaho Falls my whole nificantly altered the way we live. life. I am a father of three, married, and have The president needs to overturn the execu- Some people have said how much it now a modest home. Over the past five years, my tive order not to develop natural energy re- costs them to go to the coast. We cannot af- wife and I have made it our goal to get out sources. [Conservatives] need to be hollering ford to go to the coast as much as I would of debt, pay off our home early, and save for to anyone who will listen that we need oil, like to see family and do some chartered retirement. I am sure you have heard similar natural gas, coal production and nuclear fishing. We carefully evaluate local trips to stories before. I am an average guy, with an power plants. Americans are not against al- see if they are truly necessary, and attend- average income, with an average house. ternative energy, but let us develop it before ance at many events within a couple hours In order to put things into perspective, I we shut off the oil spigot. The Green move- drive is eliminated. The cost of oil is tied to would like to go back to December 2002. Gas ment is whispering in the ears of the [lib- most things for transportation, extraction/ prices at that time were $1.30 per gallon give erals] and they have no choice but to be harvesting and processing. That results in or take a few cents. In 2003, they rose to against developing our petroleum resources. less we can buy as the cost goes up. $1.80. By 2004, they rose again to nearly $2.00 Believe me, [liberals] drive as much as I do It seems we are unofficially under ‘‘eco- per gallon. In 2005 we saw prices hit $2.50 and are as mad. Help us go forward. There nomic sanctions’’ by OPEC.’’ Under a pure mark and above. By 2006, Idahoans were pay- needs to be leadership in D.C., let [liberals] supply and demand situation, we should see ing $3.00 and above for a gallon of gas. As keep saying no to oil, they will cut their own the price of oil/gasoline drop when the de- 2007 approached, gas prices were in the $3.50 throat. If nothing is done, 1861 is around the mand drops. Lately when we drop our de- range. As we approach the mid-point of sum- corner. T mand for oil, the OPEC scales back oil pro- mer 2008, a gallon of fuel is now at the $4.00 WADE. duction-keeping the supply low to keep the mark for regular. I might add here that gas demand up and the prices high. This is basi- is typically cheaper as winter approaches Thank you for working hard for us in cally declaring economic war on the world in and demands for fuel are not as great. So Idaho. I am a 64 year old man, disabled and general, and the US in particular. We need to these figures are just representative numbers on SSA. I have a wife and a 14-year-old son. increase our production to override some of at a glance. I live 50 miles from the nearest place where this manipulation of our economy. It is time As you can see, a gallon of gas has tripled I can shop for food and supplies. I use to go to remove the restrictions on energy devel- in price since 2002. If you were to look at his- to town once a month. Now I have to try to opment from oil shale. torical data, you would find that gasoline

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.007 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2764 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 prices were stable from about 1985 through through November so I would not have to fill day 11 to 12 hours. I live in a rural area of most of 2002. For about 17 years, Americans the pick-up with gas too much. Government Canyon County, so ride-sharing or car- enjoyed what I would consider a fair price for wants us to recycle to help environment and pooling is not a viable option for me. I have a gallon of gas. I did some research on cur- I am all for it, but when we try to do our to drive 18 miles to work so riding a bike is rent gas prices in Iran and Iraq. part, we do not get any help in return. If you not an option especially after putting in a 12 Currently Iran pays 5 cents per liter and do get an electric car which no one can af- hour day. I drive a small pick up Chevy S–10 Iraq pay 8 cents per liter. If you were to con- ford but the wealthy. to help reduce my gas usage, my wife in I vert liters to gallons, it would take 3.78 li- I see my single parent daughter trying to traded in our ford tarsus for a KIA Spectra ters per gallon. If you were to buy 4 liters of commute and make ends meet and it gets in- last November to help save money and pro- gas (over a gallon), it would cost 20 cents in creasingly difficult because with gas prices tect our budget of the current (November 07) Iran, 32 cents in Iraq. See link for pricing she goes with less food for family, etc. high gas prices. http://www.nationmaster.com/red/graph/ I think it is outrageous for our country What I can say is that the only way out of enelgaslpri-energy-gasoline- and politicians to allow these price increases our current situation is for our Congress to prices&bldesc=1. I could go on, but you get when we have the means to take care of this show OPEC, that we are willing to take back the point. Oil being produced by these coun- country. 20 years ago they spoke of getting control of our oil dependence. tries is reaping the benefit of cheaper prices. alternatives and did not push this issue and ROBERT. I must digress a moment. I now need to had they done so much more could have been complain. Remember, I am the average guy done. I am afraid that before long we will see f with the average income. I would like to talk violence in this country mainly because our about how rising fuel prices have affected my jobs are gone, price increases in every area of MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT family. As fuel prices rise, so have other products, but no one ever increases the Messages from the President of the commodities. Produce, meats, poultry, wages to meet the demands of other in- United States were communicated to grains, and dairy have all spiked in the last crease. What is the matter with people in government and businesses? the Senate by Mrs. Neiman, one of his year. Consumer goods and durables have also secretaries. risen. The past three years have been very I do not like to see government control but difficult to stay on a budget since gas prices because our business people will not use f have raised so dramatically. Our family is common sense to see what happens when the committed to stay out of consumer debt. We jobs go there is not sufficient jobs to go and EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED have no credit cards nor do we have any buy the products. What is wrong with this picture? We need to start taxing products As in executive session the Presiding store credit that we borrow from. Both of the Officer laid before the Senate messages vehicles we own are pre-2000 year models. We from overseas that come here so business’s do not overspend what we make but we feel will come back to the states and put our peo- from the President of the United the crunch and feel that we make less money ple back to work. How sad our government States submitting sundry nominations now than when we did four years ago. The has deserted their own people. which were referred to the appropriate I am hoping with all my heart that some- dollar just does not stretch enough these committees. one will step up to the plate and really try to days. It is frustrating and depressing as we make a difference. We have to do something (The nominations received today are budget our money each month down to the as everything is getting out of control and it printed at the end of the Senate pro- penny. is sad because of what our forefathers have ceedings.) Now that I have got that off my chest, tried to do before us to make it a great coun- what is the solution? I firmly believe that f try. I am angry and I do not like politics but America has the technology now to manufac- when I see people trying to do well for their ture and make our own fuels. There are NOTICE RELATIVE TO THE CON- families and that means is taken away from many alternative fuels out there that can TINUATION OF THE NATIONAL them someone needs to speak up. and already have been developed. Grain alco- EMERGENCY WITH RESPECT TO DEVERA, Nampa. hol is viable. Continued exploration of fossil THE ACTIONS AND POLICIES OF fuels is also very important. Alternative en- Many of our family members are opting CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE GOV- ergy sources need to be used more. Wind out of a treasured activity this summer be- ERNMENT OF ZIMBABWE AND Power in south east Idaho needs to be cause of the fuel prices: we normally have a OTHER PERSONS TO UNDERMINE tapped. Solar energy is another avenue. Elec- family reunion (as everyone is all over the tric cars are also viable and cheaper to drive ZIMBABWE’S DEMOCRATIC PRO- place) and meet each other and catch up. CESSES OR INSTITUTIONS—PM 10 and cleaner than any gas engine. Countries Many aren’t coming because as they said, ‘‘I that manufacture their own fuels always pay just cannot afford to pay the gas to drive The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be- less at the pump. Why cannot we do the there and plane tickets are just as expen- fore the Senate the following message same? Another idea is to offer incentives to sive.’’ My sister and I would not think twice from the President of the United states to develop, manufacture, and sell the normally about taking a drive down to our States, together with an accompanying cheapest (and best) fuels. Regardless of what relatives or drive to get to our vacation spot, people think, nuclear power is one of the but now we are rethinking going on vacation report, which was referred to the Com- cheapest and cleanest sources of power on at all. My family and I have also started mittee on Banking, Housing, and the planet. There are many countries that buying online because it is cheaper than Urban Affairs: use nuclear power (Japan) and have for many driving around town to find what we need. To the Congress of the United States: years without mishap. We need to move for- We have also cut down our ‘‘dining out’’ to ward start implementing existing tech- practically once every two months (if that). Section 202(d) of the National Emer- nology that is proven to work. If the local businesses aren’t feeling the con- gencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) provides Again, my ideas are not new. This tech- sequences of that, I’ll be surprised because for the automatic termination of a na- nology is here now. It has been developed. my family is not the only one that is doing tional emergency unless, prior to the We just need to implement it. Thank you for it. anniversary date of its declaration, the your time and hope this letter reaches you in We aren’t getting as much fresh produce in President publishes in the Federal Reg- good health. I think you are doing a super our diets this year because they just cost too ister and transmits to the Congress a job for us in the Senate. much (the grocer claims that the fuel prices MARK, Idaho Falls. are affecting the food prices). This also notice stating that the emergency is to makes us buy less food and the cheaper continue in effect beyond the anniver- I would like to see the speed limit reduced brands. I have even caught myself of sus- sary date. In accordance with this pro- to 55 mph. Everybody knows how that would pecting the grocer and the gas station man- vision, I have sent the enclosed notice benefit energy and lives. The 75 mph speed ager of glutting themselves by gouging us to the Federal Register for publication, limit between Boise and Mountain Home with the ‘‘it is OPEC’s fault you pay so stating that the national emergency should be the first one reduced. Then cut the much’’ (and these people are my neighbors, with respect to the actions and policies 65 mph between Boise and Mc Call. (and right which makes me feel a little ashamed of my- up the line) self). of certain members of the Government DONABETH, Boise. All of this is only the parts of my life of Zimbabwe and other persons to un- where I have seen the biggest impact. I real- dermine Zimbabwe’s democratic proc- I am 63 years old and last year, right before ly cannot think of many aspects in my life esses or institutions is to continue in the prices went out of control, already had that have not been affected by the fuel hikes. effect beyond March 6, 2009. purchased an electric bike to use to get to Hope this enlightens you to the trials of at The crisis constituted by the actions work. Fortunately I only live a little over a least one voter. and policies of certain members of the mile away and can use this bike that goes 15 JEORGETTE. miles an hour. My determination to ride this Government of Zimbabwe and other bike increased as the hot days turned into I do not have much of a different story persons to undermine Zimbabwe’s colder ones and I was able to ride my bike than many other Idahoans. I work hard each democratic processes or institutions

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:11 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.038 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2765 has not been resolved. These actions all levels in planning, interpreting, and pro- port Regulations; Proposed Revision to Re- and policies pose a continuing unusual tecting sites where historic battles were porting Requirements’’ ((Docket No. AMS- and extraordinary threat to the foreign fought on American soil during the armed FV-07-0110)(FV07-944/980/999-1 FR)) received in policy of the United States. For these conflicts that shaped the growth and devel- the Office of the President of the Senate on opment of the United States, and for other February 24, 2009; to the Committee on Agri- reasons, I have determined that it is purposes; to the Committee on Energy and culture, Nutrition, and Forestry. necessary to continue this national Natural Resources. EC–878. A communication from the Admin- emergency and to maintain in force the istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, f sanctions to respond to this threat. Department of Agriculture, transmitting, BARACK OBAMA. MEASURES READ THE FIRST TIME pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled THE WHITE HOUSE, March 3, 2009. ‘‘Irish Potatoes Grown in Washington; Re- The following bill was read the first laxation of Handling and Import Regula- f time: tions’’ ((Docket No. AMS-FV-08-0036)(FV08- TRANSMITTING CERTIFICATION H.R. 146. An act to establish a battlefield 946-1 FIR)) received in the Office of the acquisition grant program for the acquisi- President of the Senate on February 24, 2009; THAT THE EXPORT OF TWO EN- tion and protection of nationally significant to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, VIRONMENTAL CHAMBERS TO BE battlefields and associated sites of the Revo- and Forestry. USED TO TEST AUTOMOTIVE lutionary War and the War of 1812, and for EC–879. A communication from the Admin- PARTS IS NOT DETRIMENTAL TO other purposes. istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture, transmitting, THE U.S. SPACE LAUNCH INDUS- f TRY AND WILL NOT MEASUR- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ABLY IMPROVE MISSILE OR EXECUTIVE AND OTHER ‘‘Nectarines and Peaches Grown in Cali- COMMUNICATIONS fornia; Changes in Handling Requirements SPACE LAUNCH CAPABILITIES for Fresh Nectarines and Peaches’’ ((Docket OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF The following communications were No. AMS-FV-08-0108)(FV09-916/917-1 IFR)) re- CHINA—PM 11 laid before the Senate, together with ceived in the Office of the President of the The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be- accompanying papers, reports, and doc- Senate on February 24, 2009; to the Com- fore the Senate the following message uments, and were referred as indicated: mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- EC–871. A communication from the Direc- estry. from the President of the United EC–880. A communication from the Admin- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- States, together with an accompanying istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, report; which was referred to the Com- Department of Agriculture, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled mittee on Foreign Relations: pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Chlorothalonil; Pesticide Tolerances’’ ‘‘Olives Grown in California; Increased As- (FRL-8402-7) received in the Office of the To the Congress of the United States: sessment Rate’’ ((Docket No. AMS-FV-08- President of the Senate on February 26, 2009; In accordance with the provisions of 0105)(FV09-932-1 IFR)) received in the Office to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, section 1512 of the Strom Thurmond of the President of the Senate on February and Forestry. National Defense Authorization Act for 24, 2009; to the Committee on Agriculture, EC–872. A communication from the Direc- Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law 105–261), I Nutrition, and Forestry. tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- EC–881. A communication from the Admin- hereby certify to the Congress that the ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, export of two environmental chambers istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Department of Agriculture, transmitting, to be used to test automotive parts is ‘‘Dimethomorph; Pesticide Tolerances’’ pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled not detrimental to the U.S. space (FRL-8401-6) received in the Office of the ‘‘Grapes Grown in a Designated Area of launch industry, and that the material President of the Senate on February 26, 2009; Southeastern California; Decreased Assess- and equipment, including any indirect to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, ment Rate’’ ((Docket No. AMS-FV-08- technical benefit that could be derived and Forestry. 0107)(FV09-925-2 IFR)) received in the Office EC–873. A communication from the Direc- of the President of the Senate on February from this export, will not measurably tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- improve the missile or space launch ca- 26, 2009; to the Committee on Agriculture, ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, Nutrition, and Forestry. pabilities of the People’s Republic of pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled EC–882. A communication from the Admin- China. ‘‘Famoxadone; Pesticide Tolerances’’ (FRL- istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, BARACK OBAMA. 8400-9) received in the Office of the President Department of Agriculture, transmitting, THE WHITE HOUSE, March 3, 2009. of the Senate on February 26, 2009; to the pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and f ‘‘Tart Cherries Grown in the States of Michi- Forestry. gan, et al.; Final Free and Restricted Per- MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE EC–874. A communication from the Direc- centages for the 2008–2009 Crop Year for Tart tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Cherries’’ ((Docket No. AMS-FV-08- At 12:01 p.m., a message from the ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, 0089)(FV09-930-1 FR)) received in the Office of House of Representatives, delivered by pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled the President of the Senate on February 26, Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- ‘‘Fluazifop-P-butyl; Pesticide Tolerances’’ 2009; to the Committee on Agriculture, Nu- nounced that the House has passed the (FRL-8401-1) received in the Office of the trition, and Forestry. following bills, in which it requests the President of the Senate on February 26, 2009; EC–883. A communication from the Execu- concurrence of the Senate: to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, tive Director, Commodity Futures Trading and Forestry. Commission, transmitting, pursuant to law, H.R. 146. An act to establish a battlefield EC–875. A communication from the Direc- the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Proceedings acquisition grant program for the acquisi- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Before the Commodity Futures Trading tion and protection of nationally significant ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, Commission’’ (RIN3038-AC50) received in the battlefields and associated sites of the Revo- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Office of the President of the Senate on lutionary War and the War of 1812, and for ‘‘Propoxycarbazone; Pesticide Tolerances’’ March 2, 2009; to the Committee on Agri- other purposes. (FRL-8400-4) received in the Office of the culture, Nutrition, and Forestry. H.R. 548. An act to assist citizens, public President of the Senate on February 26, 2009; EC–884. A communication from the Assist- and private institutions, and governments at to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, ant Secretary of Defense (Reserve Affairs), all levels in planning, interpreting, and pro- and Forestry. transmitting, pursuant to law, the 2008 an- tecting sites where historic battles were EC–876. A communication from the Direc- nual report relative to the STARBASE Pro- fought on American soil during the armed tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- gram; to the Committee on Armed Services. conflicts that shaped the growth and devel- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, EC–885. A communication from the Assist- opment of the United States, and for other pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ant Secretary of the Navy (Research, Devel- purposes. ‘‘Tebuconazole; Pesticide Tolerance’’ (FRL- opment and Acquisition), transmitting, pur- f 8399-3) received in the Office of the President suant to law, a report relative to overseas of the Senate on February 26, 2009; to the ship repairs; to the Committee on Armed MEASURES REFERRED Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Services. The following bill was read the first Forestry. EC–886. A communication from the Acting EC–877. A communication from the Admin- Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and and the second times by unanimous istrator, Agricultural Marketing Service, Readiness), transmitting, pursuant to law, a consent, and referred as indicated: Department of Agriculture, transmitting, report relative to the Critical Skills Reten- H.R. 548. An act to assist citizens, public pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled tion Bonus program; to the Committee on and private institutions, and governments at ‘‘Fruit, Vegetable, and Specialty Crops—Im- Armed Services.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.027 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2766 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 EC–887. A communication from the Assist- ‘‘New Source Performance Standards; Sup- on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- ant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and plemental Delegation of Authority to the fairs. Reserve Affairs), transmitting, pursuant to State of Wyoming’’ (FRL-8770-2) received in EC–908. A communication from the Acting law, a notice of additional time required to the Office of the President of the Senate on Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legis- complete a report relative to recruiting in- March 3, 2009; to the Committee on Environ- lative Affairs, Department of Justice, trans- centives; to the Committee on Armed Serv- ment and Public Works. mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to ices. EC–898. A communication from the Acting the Department’s activities under the Civil EC–888. A communication from the Acting United States Trade Representative, Execu- Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act; to Under Secretary of Defense (Personnel and tive Office of the President, transmitting, the Committee on the Judiciary. Readiness), transmitting a report on the ap- pursuant to law, the 2009 Trade Policy Agen- EC–909. A communication from the Staff proved retirement of Lieutenant General da and 2008 Annual Report of the President Director, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, James N. Soligan, United States Air Force, of the United States on the Trade Agree- transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- and his advancement to the grade of lieuten- ments Program; to the Committee on Fi- ative to the Commission’s recent appoint- ant general on the retired list; to the Com- nance. ment of members to the Oklahoma Advisory mittee on Armed Services. EC–899. A communication from the Chief of Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- EC–889. A communication from the Sec- the Publications and Regulations Branch, In- ary. retary, Federal Trade Commission, transmit- ternal Revenue Service, Department of the EC–910. A communication from the Staff ting, pursuant to law, an annual report on Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Director, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, the actions taken by the Commission rel- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Safe Harbors for transmitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Sections 143 and 25’’ (Rev. Proc. 2009-18) re- ative to the Commission’s recent appoint- Act during fiscal year 2008; to the Committee ceived in the Office of the President of the ment of members to the Mississippi Advisory on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Senate on March 3, 2009; to the Committee Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- EC–890. A communication from the Sec- on Finance. ary. retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- EC–900. A communication from the Chief of ant to law, a six-month periodic report on the Publications and Regulations Branch, In- f the national emergency with respect to Iran ternal Revenue Service, Department of the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND as declared in Executive Order 12957 of March Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the JOINT RESOLUTIONS 15, 1995; to the Committee on Banking, Hous- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Research Credit ing, and Urban Affairs. Claims Audit Techniques Guide: Credit for The following bills and joint resolu- EC–891. A communication from the Sec- Increasing Research Activities IRC Section tions were introduced, read the first retary, Office of the General Counsel, Securi- 41—Revised Exhibit C’’ (LMSB-4-0209-008) re- and second times by unanimous con- ties and Exchange Commission, transmit- ceived in the Office of the President of the sent, and referred as indicated: ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Senate on March 3, 2009; to the Committee By Ms. MURKOWSKI (for herself and titled ‘‘Adjustments to Civil Monetary Pen- on Finance. Mr. BEGICH): alty Amounts’’ (17 CFR Part 201) received in EC–901. A communication from the Chief of S. 522. A bill to resolve the claims of the the Office of the President of the Senate on the Publications and Regulations Branch, In- Bering Straits Native Corporation and the February 26, 2009; to the Committee on ternal Revenue Service, Department of the State of Alaska to land adjacent to Salmon Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Lake in the State of Alaska and to provide EC–892. A communication from the Chief of report of a rule entitled ‘‘Tier I Issue For- for the conveyance to the Bering Straits Na- Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- eign Tax Credit Generator Directive—Revi- tive Corporation of certain other public land tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to sion 1’’ (LMSB-04-0109-002) received in the Of- in partial satisfaction of the land entitle- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Amend- fice of the President of the Senate on March ment of the Corporation under the Alaska ment of Section 73.622(i), Final DTV Table of 3, 2009; to the Committee on Finance. Allotments, Television Broadcast Stations; EC–902. A communication from the Acting Native Claims Settlement Act; to the Com- Indianapolis, Indiana’’ (MB Docket No. 08- Assistant Secretary, Office of Legislative Af- mittee on Energy and Natural Resources. 122) received in the Office of the President of fairs, Department of State, transmitting, By Mr. TESTER (for himself and Mrs. the Senate on March 2, 2009; to the Com- pursuant to law, weekly reports relative to FEINSTEIN): mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- Iraq for the period of December 15, 2008, S. 523. A bill to amend the Energy Policy tation. through February 15, 2009; to the Committee Act of 2005 to establish pilot project offices EC–893. A communication from the Chief of on Foreign Relations. to improve Federal permit coordination for Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- EC–903. A communication from the Assist- renewable energy; to the Committee on En- tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to ant Legal Adviser for Treaty Affairs, Depart- ergy and Natural Resources. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Implemen- ment of State, transmitting, pursuant to the By Mr. FEINGOLD (for himself and Mr. tation of the DTV Delay Act’’ (FCC 09-11) re- Case-Zablocki Act, 1 U.S.C. 112b, as amended, MCCAIN): ceived in the Office of the President of the the report of the texts and background state- S. 524. A bill to amend the Congressional Senate on March 2, 2009; to the Committee ments of international agreements, other Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. than treaties (List 2009-0020—2009-0027); to to provide for the expedited consideration of EC–894. A communication from the Acting the Committee on Foreign Relations. certain proposed rescissions of budget au- Assistant Secretary, Office of Legislative Af- EC–904. A communication from the Sec- thority; to the Committee on the Budget. fairs, Department of State, transmitting, retary of Energy, transmitting, pursuant to By Mr. DORGAN (for himself, Ms. pursuant to law, a report relative to the De- law, a report relative to the Department’s SNOWE, Mr. GRASSLEY, Mr. KENNEDY, partment’s Alternative Fuel Vehicle pro- competitive sourcing activities during fiscal Mr. MCCAIN, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. gram for fiscal year 2008; to the Committee year 2008; to the Committee on Energy and BINGAMAN, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. DURBIN, on Energy and Natural Resources. Natural Resources. Mr. NELSON of Florida, Mr. KOHL, Mr. EC–895. A communication from the Direc- EC–905. A communication from the Direc- LEVIN, Mr. LEAHY, Mr. SANDERS, Mr. tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- tor of the Regulations Policy and Manage- KERRY, Mr. BROWN, Mr. FEINGOLD, ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, ment Staff, Food and Drug Administration, Mr. JOHNSON, Mr. INOUYE, Mr. TEST- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Department of Health and Human Services, ER, Mr. CASEY, Mrs. MCCASKILL, Mr. ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of Implementa- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of THUNE, Mr. BEGICH, and Mrs. tion Plans; Hawaii; Correction’’ (FRL-8771-1) a rule entitled ‘‘Institutional Review Boards; SHAHEEN): received in the Office of the President of the Registration Requirements’’ (RIN0910-AB88) S. 525. A bill to amend the Federal Food, Senate on March 3, 2009; to the Committee received in the Office of the President of the Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to the on Environment and Public Works. Senate on February 9, 2009; to the Com- importation of prescription drugs, and for EC–896. A communication from the Direc- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and other purposes; to the Committee on Health, tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Pensions. Education, Labor, and Pensions. ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, EC–906. A communication from the Chair- By Mrs. MCCASKILL: pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled man, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, trans- S. 526. A bill to provide in personam juris- ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of Implementa- mitting, pursuant to law, the Commission’s diction in civil actions against contractors tion Plans; State of California; 2003 State Annual Report for calendar year 2008; to the of the United States Government performing Strategy and 2003 South Coast Plan for One- Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- contracts abroad with respect to serious bod- Hour Ozone and Nitrogen Dioxide’’ (FRL- ernmental Affairs. ily injuries of members of the Armed Forces, 8770-1) received in the Office of the President EC–907. A communication from the Direc- civilian employees of the United States Gov- of the Senate on March 3, 2009; to the Com- tor, Office of Management and Budget, Exec- ernment, and United States citizen employ- mittee on Environment and Public Works. utive Office of the President, transmitting, ees of companies performing work for the EC–897. A communication from the Direc- pursuant to law, a report entitled ‘‘Fiscal United States Government in connection tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Year 2008 Report to Congress on Implementa- with contractor activities, and for other pur- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, tion of The Federal Information Security poses; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Management Act of 2002’’; to the Committee rity and Governmental Affairs.

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A resolution to amend the shall be allowed for charitable con- of amendment No. 615 intended to be Standing Rules of the Senate to ensure that tributions of literary, musical, artistic, proposed to H.R. 1105, a bill making all congressionally directed spending items or scholarly compositions created by omnibus appropriations for the fiscal in appropriations and authorization legisla- the donor. tion fall under the oversight and trans- year ending September 30, 2009, and for parency provisions of S. 1, the Honest Lead- S. 422 other purposes. ership and Open Government Act of 2007; to At the request of Ms. STABENOW, the AMENDMENT NO. 622 the Committee on Rules and Administration. name of the Senator from Connecticut At the request of Mr. ENSIGN, the By Mrs. BOXER (for herself and Mr. (Mr. LIEBERMAN) was added as a co- name of the Senator from Wyoming CARPER): sponsor of S. 422, a bill to amend the (Mr. BARRASSO) was added as a cospon- S. Res. 64. A resolution recognizing the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act need for the Environmental Protection sor of amendment No. 622 intended to Agency to end decades of delay and utilize and the Public Health Service Act to be proposed to H.R. 1105, a bill making existing authority under the Resource Con- improve the prevention, diagnosis, and omnibus appropriations for the fiscal servation and Recovery Act to comprehen- treatment of heart disease, stroke, and year ending September 30, 2009, and for sively regulate coal combustion waste and other cardiovascular diseases in other purposes. the need for the Tennessee Valley Authority women. to be a national leader in technological inno- AMENDMENT NO. 638 S. 473 vation, low-cost power, and environmental At the request of Mr. CRAPO, the stewardship; to the Committee on Environ- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the name of the Senator from Wyoming ment and Public Works. name of the Senator from New Jersey (Mr. ENZI) was added as a cosponsor of f (Mr. LAUTENBERG) was added as a co- amendment No. 638 proposed to H.R. sponsor of S. 473, a bill to establish the ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS 1105, a bill making omnibus appropria- Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad tions for the fiscal year ending Sep- S. 144 Foundation. tember 30, 2009, and for other purposes. At the request of Mr. KERRY, the S. 482 f name of the Senator from Tennessee At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the (Mr. ALEXANDER) was added as a co- name of the Senator from South Caro- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED sponsor of S. 144, a bill to amend the lina (Mr. GRAHAM) was added as a co- BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to re- sponsor of S. 482, a bill to require Sen- By Ms. MURKOWSKI (for herself move cell phones from listed property ate candidates to file designations, and Mr. BEGICH): under section 280F. statements, and reports in electronic S. 522. A bill to resolve the claims of S. 295 form. the Bering Straits Native Corporation At the request of Mr. BINGAMAN, the S. 484 and the State of Alaska to land adja- name of the Senator from Rhode Island At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the cent to Salmon Lake in the State of (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) was added as a co- names of the Senator from Maine (Ms. Alaska and to provide for the convey- sponsor of S. 295, a bill to amend title SNOWE) and the Senator from New Jer- ance to the Bering Straits Native Cor- XVIII of the Social Security Act to im- sey (Mr. LAUTENBERG) were added as poration of certain other public land in prove the quality and efficiency of the cosponsors of S. 484, a bill to amend partial satisfaction of the land entitle- Medicare program through measure- title II of the Social Security Act to re- ment of the Corporation under the ment of readmission rates and resource peal the Government pension offset and Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act; use and to develop a pilot program to windfall elimination provisions. to the Committee on Energy and Nat- provide episodic payments to organized S. 506 ural Resources. groups of multispecialty and multi- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I At the request of Mr. LEVIN, the level providers of services and suppliers name of the Senator from New Hamp- rise to speak to a bill that I am intro- for hospitalization episodes associated ducing today to resolve a land convey- shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- with select, high cost diagnoses. sponsor of S. 506, a bill to restrict the ance dispute in Northwest Alaska, the S. 330 use of offshore tax havens and abusive Salmon Lake Land Selection Resolu- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the tax shelters to inappropriately avoid tion Act. name of the Senator from California Federal taxation, and for other pur- Shortly after Alaska became a State (Mrs. BOXER) was added as a cosponsor poses. in 1959, Alaska selected lands near of S. 330, a bill to amend title XVIII of Salmon Lake, a major fishery resource S. 510 the Social Security Act to deliver a in the Bering Straits Region of North- meaningful benefit and lower prescrip- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the west Alaska. In 1971, Congress passed tion drug prices under the Medicare names of the Senator from Minnesota the Alaska Native Claims Settlement program. (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) and the Senator from Act to resolve aboriginal land claims Georgia (Mr. CHAMBLISS) were added as S. 355 throughout the 49th State. In that act cosponsors of S. 510, a bill to amend the At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the Congress created 12 regional Native name of the Senator from Missouri Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act corporations in state, providing the with respect to the safety of the food (Mr. BOND) was added as a cosponsor of corporations with $966 million and the S. 355, a bill to enhance the capacity of supply. right to select 44 million acres of land the United States to undertake global S. RES. 49 in return for giving up claims to their development activities, and for other At the request of Mr. LUGAR, the traditional lands in Alaska. The land purposes. name of the Senator from Delaware and money was to go to make the cor- S. 388 (Mr. KAUFMAN) was added as a cospon- porations profitable to provide benefits At the request of Ms. MIKULSKI, the sor of S. Res. 49, a resolution to express to their shareholders, the native inhab- names of the Senator from Colorado the sense of the Senate regarding the itants of Alaska. The Bering Straits (Mr. UDALL) and the Senator from Ohio importance of public diplomacy. Native Corporation, one of those 12 re- (Mr. BROWN) were added as cosponsors AMENDMENT NO. 607 gional corporations, promptly selected of S. 388, a bill to extend the termi- At the request of Mr. WICKER, the lands in the Salmon Lake region over- nation date for the exemption of rename of the Senator from Kansas (Mr. lapping state selections, because the turning workers from the numerical BROWNBACK) was added as a cosponsor lake and the waters upstream and limitations for temporary workers. of amendment No. 607 proposed to H.R. downstream from the lake spawn and

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When editorial pages argue for reational activities. hope this body can ratify this bill a new line-item veto, they, too, cite For the past 38 years there have been swiftly and move it to the House of congressional earmarks as the reason conflicts over the conveyances, delay- Representatives for its concurrence for granting the President this new au- ing land from going to the corporation, and eventual signing by the President. thority. harming the economic and cultural The bill is important for residents of That is exactly what our bill does. It benefits of the corporation to Native Nome who utilize the area and for all provides the President with new expe- shareholders, and complicating land Alaska Natives who live in the Bering dited rescission authority—what has and wildlife management issues be- Straits Region. been commonly referred to as a line- tween federal agencies and the State of item veto—to cancel congressional ear- Alaska. Starting in 1994, but accel- By Mr. FEINGOLD (for himself marks. The definitions of earmarks erating in 1997, talks began among the and Mr. MCCAIN): that we use are the very definitions S. 524. A bill to amend the Congres- State, Federal agencies and native cor- upon which each house has agreed in sional Budget and Impoundment Con- porations and towns in the region, lo- passing the Honest Leadership and cated north of Nome—Salmon Lake trol Act of 1974 to provide for the expedited consideration of certain proposed Open Government Act in the 110th Con- itself is located 38 miles north of gress. Nome—to reach a consensus on land rescissions of budget authority; to the Committee on the Budget. Unauthorized congressional ear- uses in the region. Those talks reached marks are a serious problem. By one agreement on June 1, 2007 with a reso- Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I am pleased to once again offer this meas- estimate, in 2004 alone more than $50 lution that satisfied all parties. This ure, the Congressional Accountability billion in earmarks were passed. While seemingly non-controversial legisla- and Line-Item Veto Act of 2009 with some in Congress may wish to dismiss tion will implement the new land man- my colleague from Wisconsin, the this issue, this year a single bill, the agement regime in the area and finally Ranking Member of the House Budget omnibus appropriations bill we are con- complete the conveyance of ANCSA Committee, Congressman PAUL RYAN. I sidering in the Senate, has by one lands to the Bering Straits Native Cor- have worked with Congressman RYAN count over eight thousand earmarks poration—giving the corporation title on this issue for the last two years. He that cost over $7 billion. That is just after surveys to the last of the 145,728 and I belong to different political par- one bill. We haven’t even begun the ap- acres it was promised by Section 14 ties, and differ on many issues. But we propriations process for the coming i (h)(8) of ANCSA nearly four decades do share at least two things in com- cal year. ago. mon—our hometown of Janesville, WI, There is no excuse for a system that By this bill the Corporation will gain and an abiding respect for Wisconsin’s allows that kind of wasteful spending conveyance to 1,009 acres in the Salm- tradition of fiscal responsibility. year after year, and while I have op- on Lake area, 6,132 acres at Windy I am also delighted to be joined by posed granting the President line-item Cove, northwest of Salmon Lake, and my colleague, the senior Senator from veto authority to effectively reshape 7,504 acres at Imuruk Basin, on the Arizona, Mr. MCCAIN, in introducing programs like Medicare and Medicaid, north shore of Imuruk Basin, a water the Congressional Accountability and for this specific category, I support giv- body north of Windy Cove. In return Line-Item Veto Act of 2009. Senator ing the President this additional tool. the Corporation relinquishes rights to MCCAIN has been one of the preeminent Under our proposal, wasteful spend- another 3,084 acres at Salmon Lake to champions of earmark reform, and I ing does not have anywhere to hide. It the federal government, the govern- have been pleased to work with him in is out in the open, so that both Con- ment then giving part of the land to fighting this abuse over the last two gress and the President have a chance the State of Alaska for it to maintain decades. to get rid of wasteful projects before a key airstrip in the area. The Federal The measure we are each introducing they begin. Bureau of Land Management also re- today would grant the President spe- The taxpayers—who pay the price for tains ownership and administration of cific authority to rescind or cancel these projects—deserve a process that a 9–acre campground at the outlet of congressional earmarks, including ear- shows some real fiscal discipline, and Salmon Lake, which provides road ac- marked spending, tax breaks, and tariff that’s what we are trying to get at cessible public camping opportunities benefits. This new authority would with this legislation. from the Nome-Teller Highway. The sunset at the end of 2014, ensuring that President Obama recognizes the per- agreement also retains public access to Congress will have a chance to review nicious effect earmarks have on the en- BLM managed lands in the Kigluaik its use in two different presidential tire process. When he asked Congress Mountain Range. terms before considering whether or to take the extraordinary step of send- The bill fully protects recreation and not to extend it. While not a true line- ing him a massive economic recovery subsistence uses in the area, while pro- item veto bill, our measure provides for package, he knew such a large package viding the Corporation with access to fast-track consideration of the Presi- of spending and tax cuts would natu- recreational-tourism sites of impor- dent’s proposed cancellation of ear- rally attract earmarks. He also recog- tance to its shareholders and which marks. Thus, unlike current law, it en- nized that were earmarks to be added might some day produce revenues for sures that for the specific category of the Corporation. The agreement has congressional earmarks, the President to the bill, it would undermine his abil- prompted no known environmental will get an up or down vote on his pro- ity to get it enacted, so he rightly in- group concerns and seems to be the posed cancellations. sisted it be free of earmarks. classic ‘‘win-win-win’’ solution that all There have been a number of so- I was pleased to hear reports that sides should be congratulated for called line-item veto proposals offered President Obama looks forward to giv- crafting. The key, however, is for Con- in the past several years. But the ing the line item veto a ‘‘test drive.’’ I gress to ratify the land conveyance measure we propose today is unique in very much hope that with this bill we changes by 2011, when the agreement that it specifically targets the very can give him that opportunity. ratification window closes. items that every line-item veto pro- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- Passage of this act is certainly in ponent cites when promoting a par- sent that the text of the bill be printed keeping with the spirit of the Alaska ticular measure, namely earmarks. in the RECORD. Lands Conveyance Acceleration Act When President Bush asked for this There being no objection, the text of that this body passed 5 years ago that kind of authority, the examples he the bill was ordered to be printed in was intended to help settle all out- gave when citing wasteful spending he the RECORD, as follows: standing land conveyance issues by wanted to target were congressional S. 524 2009—the 50th anniversary of Alaska earmarks. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- statehood. In Alaska where con- When Members of the House or Sen- resentatives of the United States of America in troversy abounds over land use, this is ate tout a new line-item veto authority Congress assembled,

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SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘(D) MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SPECIAL MES- to that special message. The previous ques- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Congres- SAGES.—The President may not transmit to tion shall be considered as ordered on the sional Accountability and Line-Item Veto the Congress more than one special message motion to its adoption without intervening Act of 2009’’. under this subsection related to any bill or motion. A motion to reconsider the vote by SEC. 2. LEGISLATIVE LINE ITEM VETO. joint resolution described in subsection (a), which the motion is disposed of shall not be (a) IN GENERAL.—Title X of the Congres- but may transmit not more than 2 special in order. sional Budget and Impoundment Control Act messages for any omnibus budget reconcili- ‘‘(C) CONSIDERATION.—The approval bill of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 621 et seq.) is amended by ation or appropriation measure. shall be considered as read. All points of striking all of part B (except for sections 1016 ‘‘(2) ENACTMENT OF APPROVAL BILL.— order against an approval bill and against its and 1013, which are redesignated as sections ‘‘(A) DEFICIT REDUCTION.—Congressional consideration are waived. The previous ques- 1019 and 1020, respectively) and part C and in- earmarks, limited tariff benefits, or targeted tion shall be considered as ordered on an ap- serting the following: tax benefits which are repealed or canceled proval bill to its passage without intervening ‘‘PART B—LEGISLATIVE LINE-ITEM VETO pursuant to enactment of a bill as provided motion except five hours of debate equally ‘‘LINE ITEM VETO AUTHORITY under this section shall be dedicated only to divided and controlled by the proponent and reducing the deficit or increasing the sur- ‘‘SEC. 1011. (a) PROPOSED CANCELLATIONS.— an opponent and one motion to limit debate Within 30 calendar days after the enactment plus. on the bill. A motion to reconsider the vote of any bill or joint resolution containing any ‘‘(B) ADJUSTMENT OF LEVELS IN THE CONCUR- on passage of the bill shall not be in order. congressional earmark or providing any lim- RENT RESOLUTION ON THE BUDGET.—Not later ‘‘(D) SENATE BILL.—An approval bill re- ited tariff benefit or targeted tax benefit, the than 5 days after the date of enactment of an ceived from the Senate shall not be referred President may propose, in the manner pro- approval bill as provided under this section, to committee. vided in subsection (b), the repeal of the con- the chairs of the Committees on the Budget ‘‘(3) CONSIDERATION IN THE SENATE.— gressional earmark or the cancellation of of the Senate and the House of Representa- ‘‘(A) REFERRAL AND REPORTING.—Any com- any limited tariff benefit or targeted tax tives shall revise allocations and aggregates mittee of the Senate to which an approval benefit. If the 30 calendar-day period expires and other appropriate levels under the appro- bill is referred shall report it to the Senate during a period where either House of Con- priate concurrent resolution on the budget without amendment not later than the sev- gress stands adjourned sine die at the end of to reflect the repeal or cancellation, and the enth legislative day after the date of its in- Congress or for a period greater than 30 cal- applicable committees shall report revised troduction. If a committee fails to report the endar days, the President may propose a can- suballocations pursuant to section 302(b), as bill within that period or the Senate has cellation under this section and transmit a appropriate. adopted a concurrent resolution providing special message under subsection (b) on the ‘‘(C) ADJUSTMENTS TO STATUTORY LIMITS.— for adjournment sine die at the end of a Con- first calendar day of session following such a After enactment of an approval bill as progress, such committee shall be automati- period of adjournment. vided under this section, the Office of Man- cally discharged from further consideration ‘‘(b) TRANSMITTAL OF SPECIAL MESSAGE.— agement and Budget shall revise applicable of the bill and it shall be placed on the ap- ‘‘(1) SPECIAL MESSAGE.— limits under the Balanced Budget and Emer- propriate calendar. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The President may gency Deficit Control Act of 1985, as appro- ‘‘(B) MOTION TO PROCEED TO CONSIDER- transmit to the Congress a special message priate. ATION.—After an approval bill is reported by proposing to repeal any congressional ear- ‘‘(D) TRUST FUNDS AND SPECIAL FUNDS.— or discharged from committee or the Senate marks or to cancel any limited tariff bene- Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), nothing has adopted a concurrent resolution profits or targeted tax benefits. in this part shall be construed to require or viding for adjournment sine die at the end of ‘‘(B) CONTENTS OF SPECIAL MESSAGE.—Each allow the deposit of amounts derived from a a Congress, it shall be in order to move to special message shall specify, with respect to trust fund or special fund which are canceled proceed to consider the approval bill in the the congressional earmarks, limited tariff pursuant to enactment of a bill as provided Senate. A motion to proceed to the consider- benefits, or targeted tax benefits to be re- under this section to any other fund. ation of a bill under this subsection in the pealed or canceled— ‘‘PROCEDURES FOR EXPEDITED CONSIDERATION Senate shall not be debatable. It shall not be ‘‘(i) the congressional earmark that the ‘‘SEC. 1012. (a) EXPEDITED CONSIDERATION.— in order to move to reconsider the vote by President proposes to repeal or the limited ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The majority leader or which the motion to proceed is agreed to or tariff benefit or the targeted tax benefit that minority leader of each House or his des- disagreed to. the President proposes be canceled; ignee shall (by request) introduce an ap- ‘‘(C) LIMITS ON DEBATE.—Debate in the Sen- ‘‘(ii) the specific project or governmental proval bill as defined in section 1017 not later ate on a bill under this subsection, and all functions involved; than the third day of session of that House debatable motions and appeals in connection ‘‘(iii) the reasons why such congressional after the date of receipt of a special message therewith (including debate pursuant to sub- earmark should be repealed or such limited transmitted to the Congress under section paragraph (D)), shall not exceed 10 hours, tariff benefit or targeted tax benefit should 1011(b). If the bill is not introduced as pro- equally divided and controlled in the usual be canceled; vided in the preceding sentence in either form. ‘‘(iv) to the maximum extent practicable, House, then, on the fourth day of session of ‘‘(D) APPEALS.—Debate in the Senate on the estimated fiscal, economic, and budg- that House after the date of receipt of the any debatable motion or appeal in connec- etary effect (including the effect on outlays special message, any Member of that House tion with a bill under this subsection shall and receipts in each fiscal year) of the pro- may introduce the bill. be limited to not more than 1 hour, to be posed repeal or cancellation; ‘‘(2) CONSIDERATION IN THE HOUSE OF REP- equally divided and controlled in the usual ‘‘(v) to the maximum extent practicable, RESENTATIVES.— form. all facts, circumstances, and considerations ‘‘(A) REFERRAL AND REPORTING.—Any com- ‘‘(E) MOTION TO LIMIT DEBATE.—A motion in relating to or bearing upon the proposed re- mittee of the House of Representatives to the Senate to further limit debate on a bill peal or cancellation and the decision to pro- which an approval bill is referred shall re- under this subsection is not debatable. pose the repeal or cancellation, and the esti- port it to the House without amendment not ‘‘(F) MOTION TO RECOMMIT.—A motion to re- mated effect of the proposed repeal or can- later than the seventh legislative day after commit a bill under this subsection is not in cellation upon the objects, purposes, or pro- the date of its introduction. If a committee order. grams for which the congressional earmark, fails to report the bill within that period or ‘‘(G) CONSIDERATION OF THE HOUSE BILL.— limited tariff benefit, or the targeted tax the House has adopted a concurrent resolu- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—If the Senate has re- benefit is provided; tion providing for adjournment sine die at ceived the House companion bill to the bill ‘‘(vi) a numbered list of repeals and can- the end of a Congress, such committee shall introduced in the Senate prior to a vote cellations to be included in an approval bill be automatically discharged from further under subparagraph (C), then the Senate that, if enacted, would repeal congressional consideration of the bill and it shall be may consider, and the vote under subpara- earmarks and cancel limited tariff benefits placed on the appropriate calendar. graph (C) may occur on, the House com- or targeted tax benefits proposed in that spe- ‘‘(B) PROCEEDING TO CONSIDERATION.—After panion bill. cial message; and an approval bill is reported by or discharged ‘‘(ii) PROCEDURE AFTER VOTE ON SENATE ‘‘(vii) if the special message is transmitted from committee or the House has adopted a BILL.—If the Senate votes, pursuant to sub- subsequent to or at the same time as another concurrent resolution providing for adjourn- paragraph (C), on the bill introduced in the special message, a detailed explanation why ment sine die at the end of a Congress, it Senate, then immediately following that the proposed repeals or cancellations are not shall be in order to move to proceed to con- vote, or upon receipt of the House companion substantially similar to any other proposed sider the approval bill in the House. Such a bill, the House bill shall be deemed to be repeal or cancellation in such other message. motion shall be in order only at a time des- considered, read the third time, and the vote ‘‘(C) DUPLICATIVE PROPOSALS PROHIBITED.— ignated by the Speaker in the legislative on passage of the Senate bill shall be consid- The President may not propose to repeal or schedule within two legislative days after ered to be the vote on the bill received from cancel the same or substantially similar con- the day on which the proponent announces the House. gressional earmark, limited tariff benefit, or his intention to offer the motion. Such a mo- ‘‘(b) AMENDMENTS PROHIBITED.—No amend- targeted tax benefit more than one time tion shall not be in order after the House has ment to, or motion to strike a provision under this Act. disposed of a motion to proceed with respect from, a bill considered under this section

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.048 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2770 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 shall be in order in either the Senate or the any rule or precedent of the Senate, any rev- section 105 of title 1, United States Code, in- House of Representatives. enue or reconciliation bill or joint resolution cluding any general or special appropriation ‘‘PRESIDENTIAL DEFERRAL AUTHORITY which includes any amendment to the Inter- Act, or any Act making supplemental, defi- ‘‘SEC. 1013. (a) TEMPORARY PRESIDENTIAL nal Revenue Code of 1986 reported by a com- ciency, or continuing appropriations, that AUTHORITY TO WITHHOLD CONGRESSIONAL mittee of conference of the two Houses may has been signed into law pursuant to Article EARMARKS.— include, as a separate section of such bill or I, section 7, of the Constitution of the United ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—At the same time as the joint resolution, the information contained States. President transmits to the Congress a spe- in the statement of the chairmen, but only ‘‘(2) APPROVAL BILL.—The term ‘approval cial message pursuant to section 1011(b), the in the manner set forth in paragraph (2). bill’ means a bill or joint resolution which President may direct that any congressional ‘‘(2) APPLICABILITY.—The separate section only approves proposed repeals of congres- earmark to be repealed in that special mes- permitted under subparagraph (A) shall read sional earmarks or cancellations of limited sage shall not be made available for obliga- as follows: ‘Section 1021 of the Congressional tariff benefits or targeted tax benefits in a tion for a period of 45 calendar days of con- Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 special message transmitted by the Presi- tinuous session of the Congress after the shall llllll apply to llllllll.’, dent under this part and— date on which the President transmits the with the blank spaces being filled in with— ‘‘(A) the title of which is as follows: ‘A bill special message to the Congress. ‘‘(A) in any case in which the chairmen approving the proposed repeals and cancella- ‘‘(2) EARLY AVAILABILITY.—The President identify targeted tax benefits in the state- tions transmitted by the President on shall make any congressional earmark de- ment required under subsection (a), the word lll’, the blank space being filled in with ferred pursuant to paragraph (1) available at ‘only’ in the first blank space and a list of all the date of transmission of the relevant spe- a time earlier than the time specified by the of the specific provisions of the bill or joint cial message and the public law number to President if the President determines that resolution in the second blank space; or which the message relates; ‘‘(B) in any case in which the chairmen de- continuation of the deferral would not fur- ‘‘(B) which does not have a preamble; and clare that there are no targeted tax benefits ther the purposes of this Act. ‘‘(C) which provides only the following in the statement required under subsection ‘‘(b) TEMPORARY PRESIDENTIAL AUTHORITY after the enacting clause: ‘That the Congress (a), the word ‘not’ in the first blank space TO SUSPEND A LIMITED TARIFF BENEFIT.— approves of proposed repeals and cancella- and the phrase ‘any provision of this Act’ in ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—At the same time as the tions lll’, the blank space being filled in the second blank space. President transmits to the Congress a spe- with a list of the repeals and cancellations ‘‘(c) IDENTIFICATION IN REVENUE ESTI- cial message pursuant to section 1011(b), the contained in the President’s special message, MATE.—With respect to any revenue or rec- President may suspend the implementation ‘as transmitted by the President in a special of any limited tariff benefit proposed to be onciliation bill or joint resolution with respect to which the chairmen provide a state- message on llll’, the blank space being canceled in that special message for a period filled in with the appropriate date, ‘regard- of 45 calendar days of continuous session of ment under subsection (a), the Joint Com- mittee on Taxation shall— ing llll.’, the blank space being filled in the Congress after the date on which the with the public law number to which the spe- President transmits the special message to ‘‘(1) in the case of a statement described in cial message relates; the Congress. subsection (b)(2)(A), list the targeted tax ‘‘(D) which only includes proposed repeals ‘‘(2) EARLY AVAILABILITY.—The President benefits in any revenue estimate prepared by and cancellations that are estimated by CBO shall terminate the suspension of any lim- the Joint Committee on Taxation for any to meet the definition of congressional ear- ited tariff benefit at a time earlier than the conference report which accompanies such mark or limited tariff benefits, or that are time specified by the President if the Presi- bill or joint resolution, or identified as targeted tax benefits pursuant dent determines that continuation of the ‘‘(2) in the case of a statement described in to section 1014; and suspension would not further the purposes of 13 subsection (b)(2)(B), indicate in such rev- ‘‘(E) if no CBO estimate is available, then this Act. enue estimate that no provision in such bill ‘‘(c) TEMPORARY PRESIDENTIAL AUTHORITY or joint resolution has been identified as a the entire list of legislative provisions pro- TO SUSPEND A TARGETED TAX BENEFIT.— targeted tax benefit. posed by the President is inserted in the sec- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—At the same time as the ‘‘(d) PRESIDENT’S AUTHORITY.—If any rev- ond blank space in subparagraph (C). President transmits to the Congress a spe- enue or reconciliation bill or joint resolution ‘‘(3) CALENDAR DAY.—The term ‘calendar cial message pursuant to section 1011(b), the is signed into law— day’ means a standard 24-hour period begin- President may suspend the implementation ‘‘(1) with a separate section described in ning at midnight. of any targeted tax benefit proposed to be re- subsection (b)(2), then the President may use ‘‘(4) CANCEL OR CANCELLATION.—The terms pealed in that special message for a period of the authority granted in this section only ‘cancel’ or ‘cancellation’ means to prevent— 45 calendar days of continuous session of the with respect to any targeted tax benefit in ‘‘(A) a limited tariff benefit from having Congress after the date on which the Presi- that law, if any, identified in such separate legal force or effect, and to make any nec- dent transmits the special message to the section; or essary, conforming statutory change to en- Congress. ‘‘(2) without a separate section described in sure that such limited tariff benefit is not ‘‘(2) EARLY AVAILABILITY.—The President subsection (b)(2), then the President may use implemented; or shall terminate the suspension of any tar- the authority granted in this section with ‘‘(B) a targeted tax benefit from having geted tax benefit at a time earlier than the respect to any targeted tax benefit in that legal force or effect, and to make any nec- time specified by the President if the Presi- law. essary, conforming statutory change to en- dent determines that continuation of the ‘‘TREATMENT OF CANCELLATIONS sure that such targeted tax benefit is not implemented and that any budgetary resources suspension would not further the purposes of ‘‘SEC. 1015. The repeal of any congressional this Act. earmark or cancellation of any limited tariff are appropriately canceled. ‘‘IDENTIFICATION OF TARGETED TAX BENEFITS benefit or targeted tax benefit shall take ef- ‘‘(5) CBO.—The term ‘CBO’ means the Di- rector of the Congressional Budget Office. ‘‘SEC. 1014. (a) STATEMENT.—The chairman fect only upon enactment of the applicable of the Committee on Ways and Means of the approval bill. If an approval bill is not en- ‘‘(6) CONGRESSIONAL EARMARK.—The term House of Representatives and the chairman acted into law before the end of the applica- ‘congressional earmark’ means a provision of the Committee on Finance of the Senate ble period under section 1013, then all pro- or report language included primarily at the acting jointly (hereafter in this subsection posed repeals and cancellations contained in request of a Member, Delegate, Resident referred to as the ‘chairmen’) shall review that bill shall be null and void and any such Commissioner, or Senator providing, author- any revenue or reconciliation bill or joint congressional earmark, limited tariff ben- izing or recommending a specific amount of resolution which includes any amendment to efit, or targeted tax benefit shall be effective discretionary budget authority, credit au- the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 that is as of the original date provided in the law to thority, or other spending authority for a being prepared for filing by a committee of which the proposed repeals or cancellations contract, loan, loan guarantee, grant, loan conference of the two Houses, and shall iden- applied. authority, or other expenditure with or to an entity, or targeted to a specific State, local- tify whether such bill or joint resolution ‘‘REPORTS BY COMPTROLLER GENERAL contains any targeted tax benefits. The ity or Congressional district, other than ‘‘SEC. 1016. With respect to each special chairmen shall provide to the committee of through a statutory or administrative for- message under this part, the Comptroller conference a statement identifying any such mula-driven or competitive award process. General shall issue to the Congress a report targeted tax benefits or declaring that the ‘‘(7) ENTITY.—As used in paragraph (6), the determining whether any congressional ear- bill or joint resolution does not contain any term ‘entity’ includes a private business, mark is not repealed or limited tariff benefit targeted tax benefits. Any such statement State, territory or locality, or Federal enti- or targeted tax benefit continues to be sus- shall be made available to any Member of ty. pended after the deferral authority set forth Congress by the chairmen immediately upon ‘‘(8) LIMITED TARIFF BENEFIT.—The term in section 1013 of the President has expired. request. ‘limited tariff benefit’ means any provision ‘‘(b) STATEMENT INCLUDED IN LEGISLA- ‘‘DEFINITIONS of law that modifies the Harmonized Tariff TION.— ‘‘SEC. 1017. As used in this part: Schedule of the United States in a manner ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any ‘‘(1) APPROPRIATION LAW.—The term ‘appro- that benefits 10 or fewer entities (as defined other rule of the House of Representatives or priation law’ means an Act referred to in in paragraph (12)(B)).

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.048 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2771 ‘‘(9) OMB.—The term ‘OMB’ means the Di- ‘‘Sec. 1018. Expiration. ics in New York; $650,000 for beaver rector of the Office of Management and ‘‘Sec. 1019. Suits by Comptroller General. management in North Carolina and Budget. ‘‘Sec. 1020. Proposed Deferrals of budget au- Mississippi; $1 million for mormon thority.’’. ‘‘(10) OMNIBUS RECONCILIATION OR APPRO- cricket control in Utah; $332,000 for the PRIATION MEASURE.—The term ‘omnibus rec- (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments design and construction of a school onciliation or appropriation measure’ made by this Act shall take effect on the means— date of its enactment and apply only to any sidewalk in Franklin, Texas; $870,000 ‘‘(A) in the case of a reconciliation bill, congressional earmark, limited tariff ben- for a wolf breeding facilities in North any such bill that is reported to its House by efit, or targeted tax benefit provided in an Carolina and Washington, $300,000 for the Committee on the Budget; or Act enacted on or after the date of enact- the Montana World Trade Center; $1.7M ‘‘(B) in the case of an appropriation meas- ment of this Act. ‘‘for a honey bee factory’’ in Weslaco, ure, any such measure that provides appro- SEC. 4. SENSE OF CONGRESS ON ABUSE OF PRO- TX; $951,500 for Sustainable Las Vegas; priations for programs, projects, or activities POSED REPEALS AND CANCELLA- $143,000 for Nevada Humanities to de- falling within 2 or more section 302(b) sub- TIONS. velop and expand an online encyclo- allocations. It is the sense of Congress no President or pedia; $475,000 to build a parking ga- ‘‘(11) TARGETED TAX BENEFIT.—The term any executive branch official should condi- ‘targeted tax benefit’ means— tion the inclusion or exclusion or threaten to rage in Provo City, Utah; $200,000 for a ‘‘(A) any revenue provision that— condition the inclusion or exclusion of any tattoo removal violence outreach pro- ‘‘(i) provides a Federal tax deduction, cred- proposed repeal or cancellation in any spe- gram in the LA area; $238,000 for the it, exclusion, or preference to a particular cial message under this section upon any Polynesian Voyaging Society in Hono- beneficiary or limited group of beneficiaries vote cast or to be cast by any Member of ei- lulu, Hawaii; $100,000 for the regional under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986; and ther House of Congress. robotics training center in Union, SC; ‘‘(ii) contains eligibility criteria that are Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I am $1,427,250 for genetic improvements of not uniform in application with respect to honored to once again be joining my switchgrass; $167,000 for the Autry Na- potential beneficiaries of such provision; or ‘‘(B) any Federal tax provision which pro- friend, colleague, and partner in re- tional Center for the American West in vides one beneficiary temporary or perma- form, Senator FEINGOLD, in introducing Los Angeles, CA; $143,000 to teach art nent transition relief from a change to the the Congressional Accountability and energy; $100,000 for the Central Ne- Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Line-Item Veto Act. Additionally, I braska World Trade Center; $951,500 for ‘‘EXPIRATION would like to thank Republican PAUL the Oregon Solar Highway; $819,000 for ‘‘SEC. 1018. This title shall have no force or RYAN from Wisconsin for introducing catfish genetics research in Alabama; effect on or after December 31, 2014’’. this legislation in the House of Rep- $190,000 for the Buffalo Bill Historical SEC. 3. TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- resentatives. I applaud my two col- Center in Cody, WY; $209,000 to improve MENTS. leagues from Wisconsin for their lead- blueberry production and efficiency in (a) EXERCISE OF RULEMAKING POWERS.— ership on this important issue. GA; $400,000 for copper wire theft pre- Section 904 of the Congressional Budget Act Our bill does a number of things. vention efforts; $250,000 to enhance re- of 1974 (2 U.S.C. 621 note) is amended— First, it provides the President with a (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘1017’’ and search on Ice Seal populations; $238,000 inserting ‘‘1012’’; and constitutional line item veto author- for the Alaska PTA; $150,000 for a rodeo (2) in subsection (d), by striking ‘‘section ity. This legislation would ensure time- museum in South Dakota; $47,500 to re- 1017’’ and inserting ‘‘section 1012’’. ly consideration of earmark rescission model and expand a playground in Ot- (b) ANALYSIS BY CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET requests by the President, which must tawa, IL; $285,000 for the Discovery OFFICE.—Section 402 of the Congressional be submitted to Congress within 30 cal- Center of Idaho in Boise, ID; $632,000 Budget Act of 1974 is amended by inserting endar days of signing a bill into law. It for the Hungry Horse Project; $380,000 ‘‘(a)’’ after ‘‘402.’’ and by adding at the end gives the House and Senate 12 legisla- for a recreation and fairground area in the following new subsection: ‘‘(b) Upon the receipt of a special message tive days to act after the President Kotzebue, AK; $118,750 for a building to under section 1011 proposing to repeal any sends a rescission. It respects and pre- house an aircraft display in Rantoul, congressional earmark, the Director of the serves Congress’s constitutional re- IL; $380,000 to revitalize downtown Congressional Budget Office shall prepare an sponsibilities, as it requires both the Aliceville, AL; $380,000 for lighthouses estimate of the savings in budget authority House and Senate to pass a rescission in Maine; $190,000 to build a Living or outlays resulting from such proposed re- request before it can become law. This Science Museum in New Orleans, LA; peal relative to the most recent levels cal- bill limits the number of rescission re- $7,100,000 for the conservation and re- culated consistent with the methodology quests per bill to guard against grid- covery of endangered Hawaiian sea tur- used to calculate a baseline under section 257 of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Def- lock in Congress due to multiple rescis- tle populations; $900,000 for fish man- icit Control Act of 1985 and included with a sion proposals. Finally, it sunsets at agement; $150,000 for lobster research; budget submission under section 1105(a) of the end of 2014 in order to review how $381,000 for Jazz at Lincoln Center, New title 31, United States Code, and transmit the authority is working after the ad- York; $1.9 million for the Pleasure such estimate to the chairmen of the Com- ministration has had the opportunity Beach Water Taxi Service Project, CT; mittees on the Budget of the House of Rep- to work with Congress to employ this $238,000 for Pittsburgh Symphony Or- resentatives and Senate.’’. tool to control spending and to deter- chestra for curriculum development; (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.—(1) Section mine if it should be renewed. 1(a) of the Congressional Budget and Im- $95,000 for Hawaii Public Radio; $95,000 poundment Control Act of 1974 is amended by Why do we need to grant the Presi- for the state of New Mexico to find a striking the last sentence. dent a line-item veto authority? Cur- dental school location; $143,000 for the (2) Section 1022(c) of such Act (as redesig- rently the Senate is debating a pork- Dayton Society of Natural History in nated) is amended is amended by striking filled $410 billion, 2,967 page Omnibus Dayton, OH; $190,000 for the Guam Pub- ‘‘rescinded or that is to be reserved’’ and in- appropriations bill to fund the Federal lic Library; $143,000 for the Historic sert ‘‘canceled’’ and by striking ‘‘1012’’ and Government through the second half of Jazz Foundation in Kansas City, MO; inserting ‘‘1011’’. the fiscal year. Not surprising, the $3,806,000 for a Sun Grant Initiative in (3) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of contents set forth in section 1(b) of the Congres- measure is chock full of over 9,000 un- South Dakota; $59,000 for Dismal sional Budget and Impoundment Control Act necessary and wasteful earmarks. We Swamp and Dismal Swamp Canal in of 1974 is amended by deleting the contents need serious reform and we need it Virginia; and $950,000 for a Convention for parts B and C of title X and inserting the now—this Omnibus appropriations bill Center in Myrtle Beach, SC; following: is a perfect example of what is wrong This waste is outrageous, and the ‘‘PART B—LEGISLATIVE LINE-ITEM VETO with this system. President should veto this omnibus ‘‘Sec. 1011. Line item veto authority. Here are some examples of the ear- spending bill. The process is clearly ‘‘Sec. 1012. Procedures for expedited consid- marks contained in the omnibus legis- broken, and the American public de- eration. lation: serves better. ‘‘Sec. 1013. Presidential deferral authority. $1.7 million for pig odor research in We need to curtail earmarks, not just ‘‘Sec. 1014. Identification of targeted tax Iowa; $2 million for the promotion of disclose them. Again, the examples I benefits. ‘‘Sec. 1015. Treatment of cancellations. astronomy in Hawaii; $6.6 million for have just mentioned are earmarks that ‘‘Sec. 1016. Reports by comptroller general. termite research in New Orleans; $2.1 are among the over 9,000 contained in ‘‘Sec. 1017. Definitions. million for the Center for Grape Genet- the omnibus legislation currently

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.048 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2772 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 being considered in the Senate—so it is ford, literally, to continue to operate spending bills—usually only getting a clear that the lobbying and ethics re- under the same Washington status quo. handful of votes each time. Earmarks form bill that was enacted in August Let’s consider some cold, hard facts: are like a cancer. Left unchecked, they 2007 has done nothing to curb this proc- current national debt: $10.7 trillion; have grown out of control. And just as ess—even though it continues to be 2009 projected deficit: $1.2 trillion; total cancer destroys tissue and vital organs, touted for its ‘‘tough’’ and ‘‘historic’’ cost of the economic stimulus enacted the corruption associated with the two weeks ago: $1.124 trillion; ($789 bil- earmark reform provisions. process of earmarking is destroying Perhaps even more troubling than lion plus interest; TARP I and II: $700 what is vital to our strength as a Na- the number of earmarks is to whom billion; TARP III: $250 billion–$750 bil- and how some of this funding is being lion, or more; President’s Budget Re- tion, that is, the faith and trust of the directed. Contained within the Omni- quest for 2010: $3.6 trillion. American people in their elected rep- bus appropriations legislation are 14 I was encouraged in January 2007 resentatives and in the institutions of earmarks, totaling nearly $9.7 million, when the Senate passed, by a vote of 96 their Government. directed to clients of the PMA Group, a to 2, an ethics and lobbying reform We must keep in mind that even lobbying firm recently forced to close package which contained real, mean- strong line-item veto authority will their doors after being raided last No- ingful earmark reforms. I thought not solve all of our fiscal problems. We vember by the FBI for suspicious cam- that, at last, we would finally enact also desperately need to reform our paign donation practices. That firm re- some effective reforms. Unfortunately, earmarking process and our lobbying mains under investigation today. I that victory was short lived. In August practices—and we must remember that 2007, we were presented with a bill con- have long spoken of a broken appro- it is ultimately Congress’s responsi- taining very watered down earmark priations process, vulnerable to corrup- bility to control spending. However, tion and abuse, and the allegations provisions and doing far too little to granting the President the authority against the PMA Group and some rein in wasteful earmarks and to propose rescissions that then must Members of Congress stand as a testa- porkbarrel spending. We can change ment to the urgent need for reform. It that and enact reforms that will help be approved by the Congress would go a is wholly inappropriate for Congress to to restore the faith and confidence of long way toward restoring credibility allow these provisions to move forward the American people in their elected to a system ravaged by congressional while their principal sponsor is under representatives—and passing this bill waste and special interest pork. I look Federal investigation. Together with should be the first step we take. forward to the Senate’s consideration my colleague from Oklahoma, Dr. Again, the bill we are introducing of this legislation. It is abundantly COBURN, we offered an amendment to today will ensure timely congressional clear that the time has come for us to strip these earmarks from the omni- consideration of earmark rescission re- eliminate the corrupt, wasteful prac- bus. If our amendment fails we will ef- quests by the President. This will en- tice of earmarking. able the President to propose the re- fectively be giving our tacit approval In his final State of the Union Ad- moval of wasteful earmarks from legis- to the abuses we have repeatedly de- dress, President Reagan stood for the lation that arrives on his desk for sig- clared our intention to eliminate. last time before both Houses of Con- Six months ago, in a debate in Ox- nature and send these earmarks back gress and asked for line-item veto au- ford, MS, President Obama stated that to Congress for expedited votes on thority for future Presidents. On that ‘‘We need earmark reform, and when whether or not to rescind funding; give I’m president, I will go line by line to the House and Senate 12 legislative evening, the President had with him make sure that we are not spending days after the President sends a rescis- three pieces of legislation: an appro- money unwisely.’’ I fully agree. All one sion request to Congress to bring a re- priations bill that was 1,053 pages long needs to do is read the Omnibus appro- scission bill to consideration on the and weighed 14 pounds; a budget rec- priations bill pending before the Sen- floor of the full House and Senate; re- onciliation bill that was 1,186 pages ate to know that we need serious, com- spect and preserve Congress’s constitu- long and weighed 15 pounds; and a con- prehensive earmark reform and we tional responsibilities, as it requires tinuing resolution that was 1,057 pages need to grant the President a constitu- both the House and Senate to pass a re- long and weighed 14 pounds. President tional line-item veto authority so that scission request before it can become Reagan slammed down on the lectern he can go line by line through these law. If either the House or Senate votes the 43 pounds of paper and ink, which bloated, earmark filled appropriations against a rescission by a simple major- represented $1 trillion worth of spend- bills and send rescission requests to ity, it is not enacted; require the Presi- ing. He did so to emphasize the mag- Congress. dent to submit earmark rescission re- nitude of wasteful spending in the Our current economic situation and quests to Congress within 30 calendar bills—spending that the President our vital national security concerns re- days of signing a bill into law; limit could not stop unless he was willing to quire that now, more than ever, we the number of rescission requests per veto each piece of legislation in its en- prioritize our Federal spending. But bill, to guard against gridlock in Con- tirety. In the case of the continuing our appropriations bills do not always gress due to multiple rescission pro- resolution, that would have meant that put our national priorities first. The posals. Under this legislation, the the Federal government would shut process is broken and it needs to be President can propose one rescission down. fixed. We have entered the second year package per ordinary bill, or two re- of a recession. Record numbers of scission packages for omnibus legisla- More than 20 years later we are in ex- homeowners face foreclosure. The nation. Each rescission package may in- actly the same situation we were in tional unemployment rate stands at clude multiple earmarks; sunset at the when President Reagan said to Con- 7.2%—the highest in 16 years—with end of 2014, providing a President this gress, ‘‘Let’s help ensure our future of over 1.9 million people having lost tool to control spending over the por- prosperity by giving the President a their jobs in the last 4 months of 2008. tions of two different Presidential tool that, though I will not get to use Additionally, we learned just Friday terms. The sunset provision would give it, is one I know future Presidents of that the GDP sank 6.2 percent in the Congress the ability to review this leg- either party must have. Give the Presi- last quarter of 2008—far worse even islation and decide whether to renew dent the same authority that 43 Gov- than what was expected—with the it. ernors use in their States: the right to economy contracting by the fastest As my colleagues are well aware, for reach into massive appropriation bills, years I have been coming to the Senate pace in a quarter century. pare away the waste, and enforce budg- Even when faced with these tremen- floor to read list after list of the ridicu- et discipline. Let’s approve the line- dous difficulties, Congress’s appetite lous items we have spent money on— item veto.’’ for pork seems bigger than ever. When hoping enough embarrassment might are people going to wake up and truly spur some change. And year after year The time has come to heed Ronald grasp the seriousness of the economic I would offer amendment after amend- Reagan’s call for line-item veto au- situation confronting us? We cannot af- ment to strip porkbarrel projects from thority.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:12 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.054 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2773 SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS ator, each committee of jurisdiction shall party because the split is 60–40 right make available for public inspection on the now. Sixty percent of the earmarks—it Internet the written statements and certifi- is kind of an unwritten rule—go to the SENATE RESOLUTION 63—TO cations under subparagraph (a) not later majority party and 40 percent go to the AMEND THE STANDING RULES than 48 hours after receipt of such statements and certifications.’’. minority party. It was the other way OF THE SENATE TO ENSURE around when the Democrats were not THAT ALL CONGRESSIONALLY Mrs. MCCASKILL. Mr. President, I in power. That doesn’t seem to me to DIRECTED SPENDING ITEMS IN disagree with earmarks. I disagree with be a very logical way to spend public APPROPRIATIONS AND AUTHOR- the process. Although we have made money. It should be about the merit of IZATION LEGISLATION FALL great strides in reforming earmarks, I the project. It should be about cost- UNDER THE OVERSIGHT AND do think there are further steps we benefit. TRANSPARENCY PROVISIONS OF need to take. There are many people making the S. 1, THE HONEST LEADERSHIP Today, I have introduced a resolu- argument that we should not let bu- AND OPEN GOVERNMENT ACT OF tion, a Senate resolution, with the sen- reaucrats decide. Congress has had the 2007 ior Senator from Colorado, Mr. UDALL, power of the purse for over 200 years. to bring even more transparency to CCASKILL (for herself and Mr. Congress has been directing spending Mrs. M this process. Basically, this resolution UDALL of Colorado) submitted the fol- in this country for over 200 years. requires all requests to be posted on Earmarks are a new creation. The lowing resolution; which was referred committee Web sites and the Member’s first earmarking started in the 1970s, to the Committee on Rules and Admin- Web site within 48 hours of request. It that ability to make a solitary, lonely istration: requires all information in the request decision as to where money is going to S. RES. 63 letter be listed online, including loca- be directed. In fact, in 1991, there were Resolved, tion, purpose, and cost. This is not only 541 earmarks, and at the height of SECTION 1. AMENDMENT TO THE STANDING presently required. It requires elec- earmarking, under President Bush and RULES OF THE SENATE. tronically searchable text of all bills under a Republican-controlled Con- (a) FURTHER TRANSPARENCY.—Rule XLIV of and conference reports, and it gress, there was $27 billion in ear- the Standing Rules of the Senate is amended by adding at the end thereof the following: strengthens the ability to remove earmarks. In fact, the number of earmarks ‘‘13.(a) All congressionally directed spend- marks by a point of order. has been cut in half under the leader- ing items shall be included in the text of an There are some loopholes that we, I ship of my party. appropriations or authorization bill and any think inadvertently, created when we This notion that bureaucrats are conference report related to that appropria- did S. 1 early in my first year as a Sen- doing the decisionmaking is wrong—we tions or authorization bill. ator. have the power to tell the bureaucrats ‘‘(b) Not later than 48 hours after the re- This resolution will require earmarks how to spend the money. We can tell quest, each request for a congressionally di- to be in the bill text. I discovered that them it is formula grants. We can tell rected spending item for an appropriations them it is competitive grants. In fact, or authorization bill made by a Senator shall there were some airdropped earmarks be posted on the Senator’s web site. The in a bill. Because they were in a man- that is what we do for 99 percent of the posting of the request for a congressionally agers’ statement, the point of order budget. We tell the executive branch directed spending item shall include the was not possible. So this requires all how to spend the money. It is now only name and location of the specifically in- the earmarks to be in the bill text, for 1 percent that we decided we cannot tended recipient, the purpose of the congres- which will subject them to the rules. It tell the bureaucrats how to spend the sionally directed spending item, and the dol- applies the airdrop point of order to money, so this notion that somehow we lar amount requested. If there is no specifi- the authorization bills in addition to need to do earmarks because the bu- cally intended recipient, the posting shall in- reaucrats are going to run amok—I clude the intended location of the activity, the appropriations bills, and it further limits earmarks to public projects don’t get it. the purpose of the congressionally directed In fact, most earmarks skim money spending item, and the dollar amount re- only. quested. In this time, I do not believe we can off other programs. You can look at ‘‘(c) It shall not be in order to consider an afford to be earmarking in the private the history of the Byrne grants. They appropriations or authorization bill, amend- sector or anywhere other than the pub- have gone down over the last 8 or 9 ment, or conference report if it contains a lic sector as we struggle with our defi- years. Now we are increasing them— congressionally directed spending item for a cits and our spending. which is great. Byrne grants are com- private for-profit or non profit entity.’’. But I really rose today not to speak petitive at the local level. But what (b) CLARIFYING APPLICATION TO CON- happened while the Byrne grants were FERENCE REPORTS.—Paragraph 8 of rule so much about the resolution I have introduced today but more to speak a lit- going down? In the same time, ear- XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate is marks were going up. There is a con- amended by— tle bit about how confused I have been (1) striking subparagraph (a) and inserting over the last few weeks by many of my nection. When money is skimmed off the for- the following: friends on the other side of the aisle. mula for highways, that is just more ‘‘(a) A Senator may raise a point of order While we have a lot of work to do in re- local projects that the local people against one or more provisions of a con- gard to earmarks, I congratulate my ference report if they constitute a congres- want to build that are not built be- party because we have created trans- sionally directed spending item that was not cause a Senator or Congressman knows parency. We now know who is ear- included in the measure originally com- better. mitted to the conferees by either House. The marking, and because of that we now Now, here is the weird part about Presiding Officer may sustain the point of know that earmarking has nothing to this. This is what I want to focus on order as to some or all of the congressionally do with party. Yes, there are thousands today: my friends on the other side of directed spending items against which the of earmarks in this bill by Democrats, Senator raised the point of order.’’; and the aisle. I listened while podiums were but there are thousand of earmarks in pounded about wasteful spending dur- (2) striking subparagraph (e). this bill by Republicans. (c) REQUIRING FULL SEARCHABILITY.—Para- ing the debate on the stimulus bill, graph 3(a)(2) of rule XLIV of the Standing Earmarking is not about party. Ear- during the debate on the economic re- Rules of the Senate is amended by inserting marking is about power. This is about covery bill. I watched as my friends ‘‘in an searchable format’’ after ‘‘available’’. whether you have the power to get an across the aisle took to the airwaves (d) SUPERMAJORITY REQUIREMENT.—Para- earmark, and power depends on various and gave many different speeches graph 10 of rule XLIV of the Standing Rules things when it comes to earmarking. It about wasteful spending in the stim- of the Senate is amended by striking ‘‘or 3’’ depends on what committee you are on. and inserting ‘‘3, or 13’’. ulus bill. It depends on whether you are an ap- Let me quote some of the things they (e) AVAILABILITY BY THE COMMITTEE OF JU- propriator. It depends on your senior- RISDICTION.—Paragraph 6(b) of rule XLIV of said: the Standing Rules of the Senate is amended ity. It depends on whether you have a Pet programs. Honey pot for whatever you to read as follows: tough election fight. It depends, to need. A porkulus bill. Wasteful spending. Pet ‘‘(b) With respect to each congressionally some extent, on whether you are in the projects. Earmarks. Earmarks. Earmarks. directed spending item requested by a Sen- minority party or in the majority An orgy of spending.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.049 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2774 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 That was what they said about the Now, the American people expect us limiting earmark requests to the pub- stimulus bill, when, in reality, there to act with speed but not haste. They lic sector, we avoid the risk of inad- were no earmarks in the stimulus bill. also expect Federal spending will re- vertently helping a campaign donor or Everything that was spent in the stim- flect critical national priorities and mixing a private gain with a public ulus bill was either competitive grants broader public purpose. Most of all, purpose. An earmark to help our com- or formula funding. they expect Congress to pass funding munities ought to be community based Now, here is the weird part. They bills in ways that ensure wise use of and community supported. There ought went on and on and on during the stim- taxpayer dollars. to be a public benefit that is recognized ulus bill about earmarking. No fewer Those are the purposes of this legis- in a way that is accountable to public than 17 different Senators stood, and lation. It is not just about preventing decisionmakers. with absolute righteous indignation, the abuse of so-called congressional Fourth, this bill prevents earmarks talked about the pet projects in the earmarks, it is, rather, about reas- from mysteriously surfacing in con- stimulus bill. Guess what? Every single suring the American people that their ference negotiations on authorization one of them has earmarks in this bill. dollars and the debt future generations bills. Previous legislation already pro- One member of Republican leadership will incur as a result of our spending hibits this air dropping of earmarks in said: will be debated in the sunshine of pub- conference negotiations on appropria- That is the problem with earmarks. All lic scrutiny. tions bills, but this reform would In short, this bill is about restoring Senators are equal, except some Senators are broaden that proposition to include au- more equal than others when it comes to integrity to a legislative process that thorization bills, which are often con- slipping things in bills. has, for a number of reasons, gone off sidered to be blueprints for the annual Every single member of the Repub- track. It is about restoring public con- funding bills. lican leadership has earmarks in this fidence in the legislative branch. Now, bill. Every single one of them. Every I say this without casting any asper- Let me be clear. I admire the hard single one of those people rejected the sions on the motive of my colleagues in work of our committee chairs and their stimulus that was one of the largest this institution or my former col- staffs, and my experience in both tax cuts in American history, but had leagues in the other body. Most of us Chambers has led me to the conclusion no earmarks, because supposedly they have sought earmarks for our States that great effort is made to ensure in- were so upset about wasteful spending. and our districts because of a sincere tegrity and accountability in spending Those very same Senators have ear- desire to help our constituents and sup- bills. Important, and often very com- marks in this bill, such as the Inter- port worthy projects. plex bills, can be undermined in the state Shellfish Sanitation Conference. Along the way, however, the public public eye when individual earmarks The Interstate Shellfish Sanitation has lost confidence in the integrity of are not carefully scrutinized. We can Conference, beaver management, park- this process. Although there have been all agree that it often takes only one ing lots, all brought to you by the very too many ‘‘bridges to nowhere,’’ the bad apple to spoil even the best barrel, same people who called out wasteful problem is as much about the process and this provision is designed to keep spending in the President’s economic that yields these earmarks. They are out the bad apples. recovery bill. tucked into spending bills without an Fifth, the bill requires that all appro- If you do not take my word for it, opportunity to debate or consider their priations and authorization conference check out the Taxpayers For Common merits or even their true authors. reports be electronically searchable at Sense Web site. According to their sta- This bill brings important reform to least 48 hours before they can be con- tistics, 6 of the top 10 earmarkers in the earmark process. First, it requires sidered by the full Senate. This reform this bill are my friends on the other that all earmarks be included in the will help the public and Congress iden- side of the aisle. In fact, the Repub- text of bills rather than a separate tify earmarks that were added during lican leader has twice as many solo ‘‘statement of managers’’ that is not the conference in appropriations bills earmark dollars in this bill than the technically part of the bill text. Pre- that can be thousands of pages long. Democratic leader. viously legislation allows Senators to In conclusion, I believe we can begin America, do not be fooled. Ear- strip out earmarks from bill text only, the important work of restoring public marking is an equal opportunity activ- not from the statement of managers. confidence in the way Congress legis- ity. It is a bad habit. The minority This reform will result in greater lates if we continue on the path we party is taking full advantage of it. Do transparency because it will make it began in 2007, with earmark and ethics not take anyone seriously who says one possible for any earmark to be stripped reform. This bill closes loopholes in the thing and does another. That is the out of the bill. Second, the bill requires law we passed in 2007, and strengthens worst sin of all. Any parent knows one that all earmarks requested by a Sen- accountability, transparency, and in- basic rule: The example you set is way ator be posted on a Senator’s Web site tegrity. more important than anything you within 48 hours after the request. It Now, there are some who would argue say. also requires committees to post on for abolishing all earmarks, including Mr. UDALL of Colorado. Mr. Presi- their Web sites all information that those supporting governmental enti- dent, I rise in support of the McCaskill- Senators are required to submit about ties. I have to tell you, I think that Udall resolution on earmark reform, an earmark request, including the may be a case of throwing the baby out and I am proud to be an original co- name of the proposed recipient, the lo- with the bathwater. At a time of eco- sponsor of this legislation so ably au- cation, purpose, and financial certifi- nomic crisis, I believe it is important thored by my colleague, Senator cation from Senators certifying they for Senators to have the tools that can MCCASKILL. I have appreciated the op- have no financial interest in that direct Federal funding to job-creating portunity to work with her in devel- project and all within 48 hours of re- projects in their home States. oping this bill, which is designed to ceiving that request. strengthen transparency and account- This reform, in short, offers a check For those of us who are not fortunate ability in the way Congress authorizes against the information that Senators enough to be appropriators, the oppor- and appropriates Federal dollars. post on their own Web sites and pro- tunity to offer carefully considered If there was ever a time in our his- vides fuller transparency by requiring earmarks is important. I have not tory when we needed to reassure the this information to be compiled in a come to the conclusion that all ear- American people that Congress under- central location. Citizens know how to marks are bad; in fact, it is the process stands the need for reform and integ- use the Web, and it has increasingly be- of their consideration and inclusion rity in the process of authorizing and come a watchdog tool for Government. that needs reform. appropriating Federal funds, it is now. Instead of shrinking from it, I believe Along with a constitutional line item It is today. As our economy continues we should embrace this technology to veto and other reform measures, I be- a deep slide into recession, we have inform our constituents and, yes, in- lieve that, in fact I know, we can con- found it necessary to stimulate recov- vite their comment and even criticism. struct a path of reform that is both fis- ery with historic levels of public spend- Third, this bill prohibits earmarks cally responsible and in keeping with ing. from private or nonprofit entities. By the highest ethical standards.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G04MR6.036 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2775 SENATE RESOLUTION 64—RECOG- Whereas the spill from the Kingston plant SA 641. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- NIZING THE NEED FOR THE EN- covered half of a square mile of land and ment intended to be proposed by him to the VIRONMENTAL PROTECTION water with waste up to 12 feet deep, destroy- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie AGENCY TO END DECADES OF ing roads, waterways, wildlife, trees, railroad on the table. tracks, and impacting 42 properties, 40 SA 642. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- DELAY AND UTILIZE EXISTING homes, and sections and coves of the Emory ment intended to be proposed by him to the AUTHORITY UNDER THE RE- River used by businesses, community mem- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie SOURCE CONSERVATION AND RE- bers, families, and children; on the table. COVERY ACT TO COMPREHEN- Whereas the Kingston spill occurred SA 643. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- SIVELY REGULATE COAL COM- around 1:00 a.m. in the morning in December, ment intended to be proposed by him to the but if it had occurred at midday during the bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie BUSTION WASTE AND THE NEED on the table. FOR THE TENNESSEE VALLEY summer, when businesses, community members, families, and children regularly use the SA 644. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- AUTHORITY TO BE A NATIONAL river and coves, the already-extensive prop- ment intended to be proposed by him to the LEADER IN TECHNOLOGICAL IN- erty damage could have been far greater and bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie NOVATION, LOW-COST POWER, the loss of life could have been catastrophic; on the table. AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEW- Whereas the United States Department of SA 645. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by him to the ARDSHIP Energy has information demonstrating wet storage impoundments present risks to pub- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie Mrs. BOXER (for herself and Mr. lic safety, health, and the environment: on the table. SA 646. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- CARPER) submitted the following reso- ‘‘[W]et impoundment systems require sub- ment intended to be proposed by him to the lution; which was referred to the Com- stantially greater disposal site volumes than bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie mittee on Environment and Public dry systems. . . Also, the presence of free liq- on the table. uid increases the possibility of leachate (i.e., Works: SA 647. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- a combination of ash solids and water) cre- S. RES. 64 ment intended to be proposed by him to the ation and its potential for migration into un- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie Whereas the burning of coal creates more derlying soils and groundwater’’; on the table. than 130,000,000 tons of coal combustion Whereas in 2006 the United States Depart- SA 648. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- waste a year; ment of Energy reported inconsistent coal Whereas coal combustion waste is made up ment intended to be proposed by him to the combustion waste disposal standards, with bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie of various types of waste, including fly ash, some States weakening safeguards and oth- bottom ash, boiler slag, and flue gas emis- on the table. ers improving protections; SA 649. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- sion control waste; Whereas the United States Environmental Whereas the National Academy of Sciences ment intended to be proposed by him to the Protection Agency in 2000 produced a draft bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie found that coal combustion waste ‘‘often regulatory determination that certain fossil contain a mixture of metals [including ar- on the table. fuel combustion wastes, including coal ash, SA 650. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- senic, lead, selenium, mercury, cadmium, be- should be regulated as a hazardous waste ment intended to be proposed by him to the ryllium, chromium, thorium and uranium] under the Resource Conservation and Recov- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie and other constituents in sufficient quan- ery Act; and on the table. tities that they may pose public health and Whereas the United States Environmental SA 651. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- environmental concerns if improperly man- Protection Agency has continued to issue in- ment intended to be proposed by him to the aged.’’; formation on the adverse effects of coal com- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie Whereas the 2 most common forms of dis- bustion waste but the agency has so far not on the table. posal for coal combustion waste are landfills required any consistent Federal regulatory SA 652. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- and surface impoundments, with impound- protections for coal combustion waste dis- ment intended to be proposed by him to the ments generally holding a ‘‘wet’’ waste mix- posal practices despite their clear authority bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie ture of water and landfills holding a ‘‘dry’’ to do so: Now, therefore, be it on the table. waste that does not include intentionally Resolved, That the Senate— SA 653. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- added water, although other forms of dis- (1) recognizes the need for the United ment intended to be proposed by him to the posal also occur in other areas including States Environmental Protection Agency bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie mines; to— on the table. Whereas a 1993 report prepared for the (A) immediately conduct and complete re- SA 654. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- United States Department of Energy found views, including onsite confirmatory exami- ment intended to be proposed by him to the that over the preceding 50 years, roughly nations, of all coal combustion waste im- bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie 500,000,000 tons of coal combustion waste poundments and landfills to ensure the safe- on the table. were disposed of at then-existing or oper- ty of people and the environment located in SA 655. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- ating waste management units, and that any area that may be threatened by a spill ment intended to be proposed by him to the about 1,000,000,000 tons of coal combustion or release from an impoundment or landfill; bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie wastes had been disposed of at an estimated (B) report to the Senate Committee on En- on the table. 759 closed units; vironment and Public Works on the earliest SA 656. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- Whereas the United States Environmental date possible that the Agency can regulate ment intended to be proposed by him to the Protection Agency reported to Congress in coal combustion waste using their existing bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie 1999 that there were roughly 600 fossil fuel authority under the Resource Conservation on the table. SA 657. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- combustion waste disposal units operating at and Recovery Act; ment intended to be proposed by him to the approximately 450 coal-fired power plants; (C) propose rules as quickly as possible to bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie Whereas the United States Department of regulate coal combustion waste under the on the table. Energy in 2006 found: ‘‘The total number of Resource Conservation and Recovery Act SA 658. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- [coal combustion waste] disposal units per- using the substantial information currently available to the Agency; and ment intended to be proposed by him to the mitted, built, or laterally expanded between bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie January 1, 1994 and December 31, 2004 (‘new (D) issue final rules as quickly as possible on regulating coal combustion waste under on the table. units’) is not known, as no industry organi- SA 659. Mr. INHOFE submitted an amend- the Resource Conservation and Recovery zation or government agency tracks this in- ment intended to be proposed by him to the Act; and formation,’’; bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie (2) recognizes the need for the Tennessee Whereas on Monday, December 22, 2008 at on the table. Valley Authority to meet the intentions of 1:00 a.m. a wall constructed of coal combus- SA 660. Mr. VOINOVICH submitted an Congress and be ‘‘a national leader in tech- tion waste and dirt failed on a 84-acre sur- amendment intended to be proposed by him nological innovation, low-cost power, and en- face impoundment holding coal combustion to the bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was or- vironmental stewardship’’. waste and water at the Kingston Fossil Plant dered to lie on the table. in Harriman, Tennessee, 40 miles west of f SA 661. Mr. TESTER (for himself and Mr. Knoxville; AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND BARRASSO) submitted an amendment in- Whereas the spill from this ‘‘wet storage’’ tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. impoundment at the Kingston plant released PROPOSED 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie on the 5,400,000 cubic yards of waste, equaling more SA 640. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amend- table. than 1,000,000,000 gallons or an amount near- ment intended to be proposed by him to the SA 662. Mr. THUNE (for himself, Mr. ly 100 times greater than the amount of oil bill H.R. 1105, making omnibus appropria- DEMINT, Mr. INHOFE, and Mr. ENZI) sub- spilled in the Exxon Valdez disaster, into the tions for the fiscal year ending September 30, mitted an amendment intended to be pro- Emory River and the surrounding valley and 2009, and for other purposes; which was or- posed by him to the bill H.R. 1105, supra; community; dered to lie on the table. which was ordered to lie on the table.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.051 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2776 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 SA 663. Mr. ENZI (for himself and Mr. used for a honey bee laboratory in Texas other purposes; which was ordered to BARRASSO) submitted an amendment in- through a congressionally directed spending lie on the table; as follows: tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. initiative and the amount made available At the end of title II of division B, add the 1105, supra; which was ordered to lie on the under that heading is reduced by $1,762,000. following: table. SEC. ll. PROHIBITION OF USE OF FUNDS FOR SA 664. Mr. BAUCUS (for himself, Mr. Mr. DEMINT submitted an SA 644. ANTI-BULLYING PROGRAMS. GRASSLEY, and Ms. STABENOW) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by Notwithstanding any other provision of amendment intended to be proposed by him him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- this Act— to the bill H.R. 1105, supra; which was or- bus appropriations for the fiscal year (1) none of the funds appropriated or other- dered to lie on the table. ending September 30, 2009, and for wise made available in title II of division B, f other purposes; which was ordered to under the heading ‘‘JUVENILE JUSTICE PRO- lie on the table; as follows: GRAMS’’ may be available for the Self-Deter- TEXT OF AMENDMENTS mination Anti-Bullying in Lifetown in At the end of title III of division F, add the Michigan through a congressionally directed SA 640. Mr. DEMINT submitted an following: amendment intended to be proposed by spending initiative; and SEC. ll. PROHIBITION OF USE OF FUNDS TO (2) the amount made available under such him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- TEACH SCIENTISTS TO TALK TO THE heading shall be reduced by $820,000. bus appropriations for the fiscal year PRESS. Notwithstanding any other provision of ending September 30, 2009, and for SA 648. Mr. DEMINT submitted an this Act— other purposes; which was ordered to amendment intended to be proposed by lie on the table; as follows: (1) none of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available in title III of division F, him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- At the appropriate place, insert the fol- under the heading ‘‘HIGHER EDUCATION’’ may bus appropriations for the fiscal year lowing: be available for Stony Brook University ending September 30, 2009, and for SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other pro- School of Journalism in New York through a other purposes; which was ordered to vision of this Act, none of the funds made congressionally directed spending initiative; lie on the table; as follows: available in Title II of Division C under the and heading ‘‘JUVENILE JUSTICE PROGRAMS’’ At the appropriate place, insert the fol- (2) the amount made available under such lowing: under the heading ‘‘OFFICE OF JUSTICE PRO- heading shall be reduced by $214,000. GRAMS’’ may be used for the At the Park SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other After Dark Gang Prevention Program in provision of this Act, section 110 of title I of SA 645. Mr. DEMINT submitted an division B shall have no effect. California through a congressionally di- amendment intended to be proposed by rected spending initiative and the amount him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- made available under that heading is re- SA 649. Mr. DEMINT submitted an duced by $50,000. bus appropriations for the fiscal year amendment intended to be proposed by ending September 30, 2009, and for him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- other purposes; which was ordered to SA 641. Mr. DEMINT submitted an bus appropriations for the fiscal year amendment intended to be proposed by lie on the table; as follows: ending September 30, 2009, and for him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- On page 427, lines 10 and 11, strike other purposes; which was ordered to bus appropriations for the fiscal year ‘‘$6,590,000, to remain available until ex- lie on the table; as follows: pended’’ and insert ‘‘$5,090,000, to remain Strike section 221 of division F. ending September 30, 2009, and for available until expended: Provided, That no other purposes; which was ordered to amounts made available under this heading Mr. DEMINT submitted an lie on the table; as follows: SA 650. shall be made available for the California amendment intended to be proposed by At the appropriate place, insert the fol- National Historic Trail Interpretive Center’’. him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- lowing: bus appropriations for the fiscal year SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other pro- SA 646. Mr. DEMINT submitted an vision of this Act, none of the funds made amendment intended to be proposed by ending September 30, 2009, and for available in Title II of Division C under the him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- other purposes; which was ordered to heading ‘‘STATE AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCE- bus appropriations for the fiscal year lie on the table; as follows: MENT ASSISTANCE’’ under the heading ‘‘OF- ending September 30, 2009, and for At the appropriate place, insert the fol- FICE OF JUSTICE PROGRAMS’’ may be used for other purposes; which was ordered to lowing: a tattoo removal violence prevention out- SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other reach program in California through a con- lie on the table; as follows: provision of this Act, none of the funds ap- gressionally directed spending initiative and At the end of title VII in Division A, before propriated under this Act may be used to re- the amount made available under that head- the short title, insert the following: peal or amend part 88 of title 45, Code of Fed- ing is reduced by $200,000. SEC. 7ll. (a) Notwithstanding any other eral Regulations. provision of this Act, none of the funds made available under this Act may be used for con- SA 642. Mr. DEMINT submitted an SA 651. Mr. DEMINT submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by gressionally directed spending initiative re- amendment intended to be proposed by lated to— him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- (1) the Virus-Free Wine Grape Cultivars or bus appropriations for the fiscal year bus appropriations for the fiscal year Wine/Grape Foundation Block in Wash- ending September 30, 2009, and for ington; ending September 30, 2009, and for other purposes; which was ordered to (2) the Viticulture Consortium in Cali- other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: fornia, New York, or Pennsylvania; lie on the table; as follows: At the end of title VII in Division A, before (3) the Center for Advanced Viticulture and At the appropriate place, insert the fol- the short title, insert the following: Tree Crop Research in California; or lowing: (4) the Center for Grape Genetics in New SEC. 7ll. Notwithstanding any other pro- SEC. lll. PROHIBITION OF USE OF APPRO- vision of this Act, section 726 of this title York. PRIATED FUNDS TO STUDY, REC- shall have no effect. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of OMMEND, OR IMPLEMENT A NEW this Act, the amount made available under METHOD OF TAXATION BASED ON the heading ‘‘SALARIES AND EXPENSES’’ under VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED. SA 643. Mr. DEMINT submitted an the heading ‘‘AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERV- Notwithstanding any other provision of amendment intended to be proposed by ICE’’ in title I is reduced by $1,677,000. this Act, none of the funds appropriated or him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of otherwise made available by this Act may be bus appropriations for the fiscal year this Act, the amount made available under used to study, recommend, or implement a ending September 30, 2009, and for the heading ‘‘RESEARCH AND EDUCATION AC- new method of taxation based on vehicle other purposes; which was ordered to TIVITIES’’ under the heading ‘‘COOPERATIVE miles traveled. lie on the table; as follows: STATE RESEARCH, EDUCATION, AND EXTENSION SERVICE’’ in title I is reduced by $4,384,000. SA 652. Mr. DEMINT submitted an At the end of title VII in Division A, before amendment intended to be proposed by the short title, insert the following: SA 647. Mr. DEMINT submitted an him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- SEC. 7ll. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, none of the funds made amendment intended to be proposed by bus appropriations for the fiscal year available under the heading ‘‘SALARIES AND him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- ending September 30, 2009, and for EXPENSES’’ under the heading ‘‘AGRICUL- bus appropriations for the fiscal year other purposes; which was ordered to TURAL RESEARCH SERVICE’’ in title I may be ending September 30, 2009, and for lie on the table; as follows:

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:29 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.056 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2777 On page 823, beginning on line 12, strike of taking from a private individual or entity gated or expended to construct, modify, or ‘‘may be used to pay’’ and all that follows an interest in property for transfer of owner- otherwise enhance any facility in the United through ‘‘practice abortions’’ on line 14 and ship of, or a leasehold interest in, the inter- States or its territories to house any indi- insert ‘‘may be made available for any pri- est to another private individual or entity. vidual currently held at the detainee com- vate, nongovernmental, or multilateral orga- (b) EXCEPTION.—Subsection (a) shall not plex at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba nization that performs or actively promotes apply to any transfer of an interest in prop- abortion as a method of birth control’’. erty for— SA 660. Mr. VOINOVICH submitted (1) use by a public utility; an amendment intended to be proposed SA 653. Mr. DEMINT submitted an (2) a road or other right-of-way open to the by him to the bill H.R. 1105, making amendment intended to be proposed by public or common carriers for transpor- omnibus appropriations for the fiscal him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- tation; (3) an aqueduct, pipeline, or similar use; year ending September 30, 2009, and for bus appropriations for the fiscal year (4) a prison or hospital; or other purposes; which was ordered to ending September 30, 2009, and for (5) any use relating to, and that occurs lie on the table; as follows: other purposes; which was ordered to during, a national emergency or national On page 444, line 21, insert ‘‘, of which lie on the table; as follows: disaster declared by the President under $2,000,000 shall be available for Cuyahoga At the appropriate place in title VI of divi- Federal law. Valley National Park, of which $1,500,000 sion D, insert the following: shall be available for emergencies and hard- SEC. ll. No funds made available under SA 657. Mr. DEMINT submitted an ships, of which $1,500,000 shall be available this Act shall be used to ensure compliance amendment intended to be proposed by for inholdings,’’ before ‘‘and of which’’. with the requirements of subchapter IV of him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- chapter 31 of title 40, United States Code, or bus appropriations for the fiscal year SA 661. Mr. TESTER (for himself and any other provision of law requiring pre- ending September 30, 2009, and for Mr. BARRASSO) submitted an amend- vailing wages to be paid. other purposes; which was ordered to ment intended to be proposed by him lie on the table; as follows: to the bill H.R. 1105, making omnibus SA 654. Mr. DEMINT submitted an appropriations for the fiscal year end- amendment intended to be proposed by At the appropriate place, insert the following: ing September 30, 2009, and for other him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- SEC. ll. Notwithstanding any other pro- purposes; which was ordered to lie on bus appropriations for the fiscal year vision of law, Federal funds may not be made the table; as follows: ending September 30, 2009, and for available to the Palestinian Authority, any At the appropriate place, insert the fol- other purposes; which was ordered to Federal Government agency, or other entity lowing: lie on the table; as follows: receiving any foreign assistance from the United States for humanitarian relief, recon- SEC. ll. CABIN USER FEES. At the appropriate place, insert the fol- Title VI of the Cabin User Fee Fairness lowing: struction, or assistance in the Gaza Strip until the Secretary of State certifies to Con- Act of 2000 (16 U.S.C. 6201 et seq.) is amended SEC. lll. USE OF APPROPRIATED FUNDS FOR by adding at the end the following: 2010 CENSUS. gress that none of the United States foreign ‘‘SEC. 615. DELAYED IMPLEMENTATION. Notwithstanding any other provision of assistance is being used to provide material ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any this Act, funds appropriated or otherwise support or resources, training, or expert ad- other provision of this title, this title shall made available under this Act for the 2010 vice or assistance (as such terms are defined not be implemented until January 1, 2010. Census shall be used in a nonpartisan fashion in section 2339A(b) of title 18, United States Code) to a terrorist organization (as defined ‘‘(b) PAYMENTS FOR 2009.—For fiscal year preserving the integrity and independence of 2009, cabin user fees shall be equal to the fee the census process, and no such funds shall in section 2339B(g)(6) of title 18, United States Code). applicable for fiscal year 2008, as adjusted be used by the Executive Office of the Presi- under section 614(a).’’. dent or other political officials to interfere SA 658. Mr. DEMINT submitted an with the conduct of the 2010 Census or to ma- SA 662. Mr. THUNE (for himself, Mr. nipulate the census process for partisan gain. amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- DEMINT, Mr. INHOFE, and Mr. ENZI) sub- SA 655. Mr. DEMINT submitted an bus appropriations for the fiscal year mitted an amendment intended to be amendment intended to be proposed by ending September 30, 2009, and for proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1105, him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- other purposes; which was ordered to making omnibus appropriations for the bus appropriations for the fiscal year lie on the table; as follows: fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, ending September 30, 2009, and for On page 1120, between lines 6 and 7, insert and for other purposes; which was or- other purposes; which was ordered to the following: dered to lie on the table; as follows: lie on the table; as follows: DETENTION OF INDIVIDUALS AT GUANTANAMO On page 410, after line 2, insert the fol- On page 183, between lines 21 and 22, insert BAY, CUBA lowing: the following: SEC. 414. (a) None of the funds appropriated SEC. 753. None of the funds appropriated in or otherwise made available by this Act may this Act may be used by the Federal Commu- SEC. lll. PREVENTION OF CONGRESSIONAL nications Commission to prescribe any rule, REAPPORTIONMENT DISTORTIONS. be used to construct, modify, or otherwise regulation, policy, doctrine, standard, guide- Notwithstanding any other provision of enhance any facility in the United States or line, or other requirement that has the pur- this Act, no funds appropriated or otherwise its territories to house any individual held pose or effect of reinstating or repromul- made available under this Act may be used at the detainee complex at Guantanamo Bay, gating (in whole or in part)the requirement in conducting the 2010 Census to include Cuba, as of the date of the enactment of this that broadcasters present or ascertain oppos- aliens who are in the United States in viola- Act. ing viewpoints on issues of public impor- tion of the immigration laws of the United (b) Notwithstanding section 3 of this Act, tance, commonly referred to as the ‘‘Fair- States for purposes of tabulating population for purposes of this section, the term ‘‘this ness Doctrine’’, as such doctrine was re- for the apportionment of Representatives in Act’’ shall be treated as referring to divi- pealed in In re Complaint of Syracuse Peace Congress among the several States. sions A through J of this Act. Council against Television Station WTVH, Syracuse New York, 2 FCC Rcd. 5043 (1987). SA 656. Mr. DEMINT submitted an SA 659. Mr. INHOFE submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by amendment intended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- SA 663. Mr. ENZI (for himself and Mr. him to the bill H.R. 1105, making omni- BARRASSO) submitted an amendment bus appropriations for the fiscal year bus appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, and for intended to be proposed by him to the ending September 30, 2009, and for bill H.R. 1105, making omnibus appro- other purposes; which was ordered to other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: priations for the fiscal year ending lie on the table; as follows: September 30, 2009, and for other pur- At the end of title VI of division D, add the In title V of division B, insert after section 530 the following: poses; which was ordered to lie on the following: table; as follows: SEC. 6ll. PROHIBITION ON FUNDING FOR EMI- PROHIBITION ON USE OF FUNDS TO CONSTRUCT NENT DOMAIN. OR ENHANCE FACILITIES IN THE UNITED On page 451, strike lines 3 through 9. (a) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in STATES TO HOUSE DETAINEES AT GUANTA- subsection (b), notwithstanding any other NAMO BAY, CUBA SA 664. Mr. BAUCUS (for himself, Mr. provision of law, none of the funds made SEC. 531. Notwithstanding any other provi- GRASSLEY, and Ms. STABENOW) sub- available by this Act shall be used for any sion of law, no funds appropriated or other- mitted an amendment intended to be exercise of eminent domain for the purpose wise made available by this Act may be obli- proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1105,

VerDate Nov 24 2008 01:26 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR6.059 S04MRPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S2778 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 4, 2009 making omnibus appropriations for the mittee on Homeland Security and Gov- tion and protection of nationally significant fiscal year ending September 30, 2009, ernmental Affairs be authorized to battlefields and associated sites of the Revo- and for other purposes; which was or- meet during the session of the Senate lutionary War and the War of 1812, and for dered to lie on the table; as follows: on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 9 a.m. other purposes. On page 679, after line 22, add the fol- to conduct a hearing entitled ‘‘Where Mr. WARNER. Madam President, I lowing: Were the Watchdogs? Systemic Risk ask for its second reading and object to SEC. 524. TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE and the Breakdown of Financial Gov- my own request. FOR COMMUNITIES.— The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- (a) APPROPRIATIONS FOR TRADE ADJUST- ernance.’’ tion is heard. MENT ASSISTANCE FOR COMMUNITIES.—There The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without are appropriated— objection, it is so ordered. The bill will receive its second read- (1) $60,000,000 to the Economic Develop- COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY ing on the next legislative day. ment Administration of the Department of Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, Presi- Commerce to carry out the trade adjustment f assistance for communities program under dent, I ask unanimous consent that the subchapter A of chapter 4 of the Trade Act of Senate Committee on the Judiciary be ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, MARCH 1974; authorized to meet during the session 5, 2009 (2) $20,000,000 to the Secretary of Labor to of the Senate, to conduct a hearing en- Mr. WARNER. Madam President, I carry out the Community College and Career titled ‘‘Getting to the Truth Through a ask unanimous consent that when the Training Grant Program under subchapter B Nonpartisan Commission of Inquiry’’ of chapter 4 of the Trade Act of 1974; and Senate completes its business today, it on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 10 a.m., adjourn until 9:30 a.m. Thursday, (3) $20,000,000 to the Secretary of Labor to in room SD–106 of the Dirksen Senate carry out the Industry or Sector Partnership March 5; that following the prayer and Grant Program for Communities Impacted Office Building. the pledge, the Journal of proceedings by Trade under subchapter C of chapter 4 of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without be approved to date, the morning hour the Trade Act of 1974. objection, it is so ordered. be deemed expired, the time for the two (b) OFFSETS.— PERMANENT SUBCOMMITTEE ON INVESTIGATIONS leaders be reserved for their use later (1) The amount appropriated or otherwise Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask made available by title V of division D under in the day, and the Senate proceed to a unanimous consent that the Perma- the heading ‘‘LIMITATIONS ON AVAILABILITY OF period of morning business for up to 1 REVENUE’’ under the heading ‘‘FEDERAL nent Subcommittee on Investigations hour, with Senators permitted to speak BUILDINGS FUND’’ under the heading ‘‘REAL of the Committee on Homeland Secu- therein for up to 10 minutes each and PROPERTY ACTIVITIES’’ under the heading rity and Governmental Affairs be au- with the time equally divided and con- ‘‘GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION’’ is de- thorized to meet during the session of trolled between the two leaders or creased by $50,000,000. the Senate on Wednesday, March 4, at their designees; further, that the Sen- (2) The amount appropriated or otherwise 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing entitled ate resume consideration of H.R. 1105, made available by title IV of this division ‘‘Tax Haven Banks and U.S. Tax Com- under the heading ‘‘LIMITATION ON ADMINIS- the Omnibus appropriations bill. pliance—Obtaining the Names of U.S. TRATIVE EXPENSES’’ under the heading ‘‘SO- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without CIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION’’ is decreased Clients with Swiss Accounts.’’ objection, it is so ordered. by $50,000,000. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without f f objection, it is so ordered. SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO PROGRAM Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask MEET unanimous consent that the Special Mr. WARNER. Madam President, ear- COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND Committee on Aging be authorized to lier this evening the majority leader FORESTRY meet during the session of the Senate filed cloture on the Omnibus appropria- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask on Wednesday, March 4, 2009 from 10 tions bill. As a result, the filing dead- unanimous consent that the Senate a.m.–12 p.m. in Dirksen 562. line for first-degree amendments is 1 Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without p.m. tomorrow. Rollcall votes in rela- and Forestry be authorized to meet objection, it is so ordered. tion to pending amendments are ex- during the session of the Senate on pected to occur throughout the day. Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 9:30 a.m. f in room 216 of the Hart Senate office PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR f building. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I ask ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 9:30 A.M. objection, it is so ordered. unanimous consent that Sara Crouse TOMORROW and Lauren Gannon from my staff be COMMITTEE ON FINANCE Mr. WARNER. Madam President, if Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask granted the privilege of the floor for the duration of today’s session. there is no further business to come be- unanimous consent that the Com- fore the Senate, I ask unanimous con- mittee on Finance be authorized to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. sent that it stand adjourned under the meet during the session of the Senate previous order. on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at 10 a.m., f There being no objection, the Senate, in room 215 of the Dirksen Senate Of- MEASURE READ THE FIRST at 7:06 p.m., adjourned until Thursday, fice Building. TIME—H.R. 146 March 5, 2009, at 9:30 a.m. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. Mr. WARNER. Madam President, I f COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS understand that H.R. 146 has been re- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask ceived from the House and is at the NOMINATIONS unanimous consent that the Com- desk. Executive nominations received by mittee on Foreign Relations be author- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the Senate: ator is correct. ized to meet during the session of the DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN Senate on Wednesday, March 4, 2009, at Mr. WARNER. I ask unanimous con- DEVELOPMENT sent for its first reading. 2:30 p.m. RONALD C. SIMS, OF WASHINGTON, TO BE DEPUTY SEC- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. The RETARY OF DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DE- objection, it is so ordered. clerk will read the title of the bill for VELOPMENT, VICE ROMOLO A. BERNARDI, RESIGNED. COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY AND the first time. OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS The legislative clerk read as follows: JOHN BERRY, OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, TO BE DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask A bill (H.R. 146) to establish a battlefield FOR A TERM OF FOUR YEARS, VICE LINDA M. SPRINGER, unanimous consent that the Com- acquisition grant program for the acquisi- RESIGNED.

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AMBASSADOR RICHARD SKLAR or politics. Richard wanted the last word in thought about Bosnia without knowing ‘‘this is any conversation—and usually he got it. what President Clinton thinks.’’ HON. NANCY PELOSI Richard and I shared a birthplace—Balti- While Richard bore the title of ambassador, OF CALIFORNIA more, Maryland—and a love for progressive it is Barbara, with her grace and grit, who is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES values and Democratic politics. Richard and the true family diplomat, negotiating strong Barbara were long involved in local and na- personalities and countless adventures in par- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 tional politics from McGovern to Obama. They enting: from Eric’s pierced ear to Marc’s high Ms. PELOSI. Madam Speaker, on January participated in every election cycle, building school parties. Of course, according to Rich- 20, 2009, just hours after President Obama coalitions and urging participatory democracy. ard, Karen and Pamela were perfect. took the oath of office, our nation lost a tre- They opened their home for candidates for of- As they traveled the world, Barbara pro- mendous American: Richard Sklar. fice at all levels of service. If you showed up vided the sense of home, keeping their net- My friend Richard Sklar was a master build- at the Sklar house during TEDDY KENNEDY’s work of family and friends together even while er: of family, of ideas, of infrastructure, of 1980 campaign, any number of KENNEDY fam- she developed her own networks in civics and peace, of the future. ily and friends might be there for breakfast or philanthropy. Barbara’s artistry captured on My husband, Paul, and I first met Richard dinner. canvas their life from California to New York to and his beautiful wife Barbara in the 1970s. I And more often than not, you would see Italy to the Balkans. remember the day the Sklars moved into the that great Sklar and KENNEDY friend, ANNA For their entire relationship, Richard called neighborhood. My daughters Christine and ESHOO. Richard delighted in ANNA’s success her, ‘‘Beautiful Barbara.’’ She was always the Nancy met them first, running home to exclaim as a Member of Congress over the years. most beautiful person that he knew. to me, ‘‘A new family has moved in. They Richard and Barbara taught their children to Like all great visionaries, Richard knew he have children our age. Their mother is beau- be active in civic life and have always taken was building a future he would not see. tiful, and their father sings show tunes. And great pride in their children’s public service. Even when he became ill, Richard never did I tell you, they’re Democrats?’’ Throughout the years, Richard’s role as stopped his work for the next generation. He My five children became fast friends with master builder of ideas manifested itself in his continued his work on the local Public Utilities the Sklar children: Karen, Eric, Marc, and work to preserve our planet for future genera- Commission, mentored political figures, and Pamela. We all quickly came to cherish Rich- tions. A force of nature himself, he never fought for a cure for cancer—if not for him, ard’s larger-than-life personality, sense of stopped thinking about new ways to save the then for others. Richard taught us how to fight: humor, and love of life and family. planet, promote energy independence, and never giving up, never losing hope, ever con- Richard was like the pied piper when it create innovative solutions by sheer force of fident that the struggle was worth it for every came to children. When one of my kids wasn’t will and intellect. extra minute it gave him with Barbara, his four home, there was a good chance that the San Francisco will always bear the mark of children, and his eight grandchildren. SkIars were hosting a basketball game, movie, Richard the master builder of infrastructure. In He also used the time to come up with new meal, or party. Over 20 years ago, the kids his lifetime, Richard oversaw construction of ideas about how to rebuild our country. How saw the Smurf movie and bestowed Richard the Moscone Convention Center, kick-started we will miss those phone calls and detailed with the nickname ‘‘Papa Smurf.’’ They—and Muni, and supervised the reconstruction of voice messages—mine always contained stra- he—used it ever since. San Francisco’s historic cable car system. tegic advice for the House Democrats. With a zest for the organic and the exotic, When you attend a conference at the My last message from Richard came after Richard and Barbara were ‘‘foodies’’ long be- Moscone Center, commute on an electric bus, he heard President Obama’s inaugural ad- fore the term was officially invented. You could or catch a cable car ride, you are among mil- dress. He thought it was wonderful, and char- count on expanding your palate at the Sklar lions of people benefiting from the city that acteristically had some thoughts to share tables in San Francisco and Napa. He was Richard helped rebuild. about it. Later that same day, Richard left us. proud of his homegrown grapes and figs, and The Balkans bear the touch of Richard the Knowing Richard’s interest in show busi- enjoyed the small celebrations—weekends in master builder of peace. In the 1990s, Presi- ness, the movie that I think best describes his the country, birthdays, and family dinners—as dent Clinton asked him to help rebuild war- journey is, ‘‘It’s a Wonderful Life’’. With Rich- much as the big holidays. Though Jewish and torn Bosnia, where he coordinated programs ard Sklar in it, it was indeed a wonderful life. proud of his heritage, Richard put up the big- with the European Union, World Bank and f gest Christmas tree anyone had ever seen. International Monetary Fund to bring economic Richard was a master builder of ideas. A reconstruction and strategic reform to eight IN HONOR OF LAUREL BRENNAN brilliant engineer, businessman, diplomat and Balkan countries. He was responsible for re- AND THE WOMEN IN LEADER- mediator, Richard brought his passion, talents storing basic electricity and water services, re- SHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM and determination to every challenge he opening the Sarajevo airport and strength- faced. As pragmatic as he could be in busi- ening mine removal efforts. He would return to HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. ness, Richard was at heart a dreamer—al- the area a few years later to help with Mon- OF NEW JERSEY ways pursuing big ideas, big ideals, and big tenegrin independence for which he received IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES innovations. the highest non-citizen medal of honor. Richard loved people—earning the respect Richard also served with distinction as U.S. Wednesday, March 4, 2009 of all, from the people on the street to the Ambassador to the United Nations, and will be Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today President of the United States. His confidence long remembered for his work to reform man- to honor Laurel Brennan, Secretary-Treasurer in their possibilities inspired greatness in re- agement, budgetary financing and personnel of the New Jersey State AFL–CIO and the turn. practices there. Women in Leadership Development (WILD) But Richard wasn’t afraid to use tough love Richard said that when he was an ambas- program. As a devoted mentor, Ms. Brennan as well, because he was passionate, mission- sador in Sarajevo, he made a point of writing has been generous with her time in helping driven and fearless in all his endeavors. In out personal notes to the White House on the hundreds of women. Through her tireless ef- one such tough love work moment, he said ‘‘I fax cover sheets that he knew the Bosnian forts to help women advance in their profes- didn’t come here to be uncritically loved; I get staffers would surreptitiously read—and dis- sional endeavors, many have reached new that from my grandkids.’’ He certainly had his cuss—as they sent his weekly reports back to heights in the labor movement and other priorities in order. Washington. He wanted the Bosnians to know fields. Richard had an opinion about everything that President Clinton never thought about In 1997, Ms. Brennan became the first and was never shy about expressing his Bosnia without considering ‘‘what does Rich- woman to hold the position of Secretary- views—whether about family, movies, books, ard Sklar think?’’ and that Richard Sklar never Treasurer of the New Jersey State AFL–CIO.

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.001 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E540 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 Since this accomplishment she has imple- talion and the 11th Brigade Soldiers coura- technology center for recruiting and devel- mented and developed the WILD program. geous and heroically completed their critical oping emerging companies. The faculty and Every year, under the leadership of Ms. Bren- mission. They represent the best of Southern students of Southwestern University will par- nan, the New Jersey State AFL–CIO sponsors Arizona and our Army. As with all of our brave ticipate in research partnerships and intern- the WILD Conference in New Brunswick, NJ. men and women, we are proud and appre- ships using the requested laboratory equip- The conference brings key players together to ciate their service to our nation. ment, wet lab, and nanotechnology clean address a wide array of questions of how f room. unions help women and how women help Budget: Key equipment and activities to be unions. The conference is designed to ensure EARMARK DECLARATION funded through this one-time federal request that union women will have the opportunity to are as follows: be educated, develop leadership skills and HON. JOHN R. CARTER VWR Science Instruments—$48,549 build diversity within labor movements. OF TEXAS VWR Wet Lab—55,924 Ms. Brennan’s WILD program began in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES VWR Clean Room—29,839 March 2004 as a way to recognize Inter- VWR Conference Room and Equipment— Wednesday, March 4, 2009 national Women’s Day. During the first year 31,882 she brought together 75 women to spend the Mr. CARTER. Madam Speaker, pursuant to NanoScience Atomic Force Microscope— day at the Rutgers Labor Education Center. the House Republican standards on earmarks, 101,058 Over the years, the number of women attend- I am submitting the following information re- Leeds Instruments Confocal Microscope— ing the conference expanded to reach over garding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 95,000 250 people. 1105, FY2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act: Applied Biosystems Mass Spectrometer— The New Jersey State AFL–CIO has been a Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. 35,000 leading proponent for workers’ rights in our CARTER Ground Zero Anti-static Flooring—2,295 community. Representing a robust one million Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Ground Zero Installation—2,000 workers in our great state, the New Jersey Account: Bus and Bus Facilities Guardian Power Generator—16,500 AFL–CIO has an impressive record of advo- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Capital Guardian Generator Pad and Installation— cating on behalf of working families. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority 7,500 Women in Leadership Development con- Address of Requesting Entity: 2910 E. 5th Indirect Costs (15%)—63,832 ference is a unique entity of the AFL–CIO. As Street, Austin, TX 78702 Total—$489,379 Ms. Brennan’s brainchild, WILD empowers Description of Request: $2,612,500 is re- Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. women in unions. For the first time in its six ceived for Capital Metro’s Paratransit Vehicle CARTER year history, WILD will be bringing ten union Replacement. Pursuant to, and in accordance Bill Number: H.R. 1105 women from the United Kingdom to compare with, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Cap- Account: Higher Education (Includes FIE) efforts globally. This unique program not only ital Metro provides door-to-door van and Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Texas benefits my community, but provides an ex- sedan Para-transit service throughout Central State University (Round Rock Higher Edu- ceptional foundation for women all over the Texas for persons with disabilities and senior cation Center) world to use in the advancement of their ca- citizens. This $11.7 million (FY08 operating Address of Requesting Entity: 601 Univer- reers. budget) program provides more than 500,000 sity Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666 Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my rides each year. Capital Metro will be replac- Description of Request: $476,000 in funding colleagues will join me in celebrating the work ing many of the vans and sedans that serve will continue to support the efforts to establish of Laurel Brennan and the WILD program. Her this program, as they are retired during the a nursing program at RRHEC. The Bachelor advocacy for women in the labor movement coming fiscal year. of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an entirely new has a lasting impact on many New Jerseyans Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. major for Texas State University only to be of- and others. I am confident that Ms. Brennan CARTER fered at RRHEC. Funding for equipment for and the WILD women will continue to inspire Bill Number: H.R. 1105 the clinical and simulation laboratories and ad- and benefit many others for years to come. Account: Health Resources and Services ditional nursing faculty and staff for the simula- f Administration (HRSA) tions laboratories continues to be needed and Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Temple FY09 funding will be used for the salaries for RECOGNIZING THE RETURN OF Health & Bioscience Economic Development the nursing program personnel as well as the THE 40TH EXPEDITIONARY SIG- District simulation lab equipment and operating costs. NAL BATTALION TO FORT Address of Requesting Entity: 938 Canyon Future funding requests are expected. HUACHUCA FROM IRAQ Creek Drive, Temple, TX 76502 FY09 Budget—$1,500,000 Description of Request: $381,000 is for the Funding Request for Salaries and Benefits HON. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS seed money to acquire a state of the art cyclo- for Nursing Program Personnel—$700,000 OF ARIZONA tron and related equipment for the production Director for Community and Continuing Edu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of radioisotopes. Future funding requests may cation (1) be submitted. Administrative and Lab Staff (4) Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Cyclotron—$2,350,000 Faculty (5) Ms. GIFFORDS. Madam Speaker, I rise Micro PET Scanner—$265,000 Simulation Laboratory Equipment and Oper- today to recognize, congratulate and welcome Micro Lab—$58,000 ating Costs—$800,000 home the remaining Soldiers of the 40th Expe- Lab Equipment—$375,000 Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. ditionary Signal Battalion, part of the 11th Sig- Shielding—$32,000 CARTER nal Brigade, to Fort Huachuca, Arizona. Rigging—$35,000 Bill Number: H.R. 1105 The battalion’s 600 Soldiers began their de- Building Construction $425,000 Account: Elementary and Secondary Edu- ployment in December 2007. The men and Start-Up Funding—$65,000 cation women of the 40th Signal Battalion supported Misc. Expenses—$17,000 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Commu- combat operations throughout the Middle East Total—$3,622,000 nities-in-Schools, Bell-Coryell Counties, Inc. as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom by pro- Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. Address of Requesting Entity: 4520 E. Cen- viding secure communications and command- CARTER tral Texas Expressway, Suite 106, Killeen, TX and-control networks for both U.S. war fighters Bill Number: H.R. 1105 76543 and coalition partners. This was the third time Account: Health Resources and Services Description of Request: $143,000 was se- the unit was called to war since the conflicts Administration (HRSA) cured for the Youngest Victims of War Project. in Iraq and Afghanistan began. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: South- The goal of the project is to continue to impact This week the remainder of the 40th Signal western University (Georgetown, TX) the lives of a minimum of 1,800 military chil- Battalion returned home to a proud and grate- Address of Requesting Entity: 1001 E. Uni- dren in a positive way by keeping them in ful nation. They join other Soldiers from 11th versity Avenue, Georgetown, TX 78626 school and focused on performing to their Signal Brigade who returned to Fort Huachuca Description of Request: $466,000 is for the greatest potential. To accomplish this, the CIS at the end of December from a similar mission TLCC, which is an innovative national model staff focus on the following components while in the Middle East. Together, the 40th Bat- for a biotechnology, life-sciences and nano- case managing students: Supportive Guidance

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.002 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E541 and Counseling, Educational Enhancement, Description of Request: $1 million to assist IN HONOR OF FRED SEARS, II Parental and Family Involvement, Enrichment in stretching available potable water resources Activities, Health and Human Service Coordi- by combining several current and future HON. MICHAEL N. CASTLE nation, and Employment Skills Training. These projects into a Williamson County Regional OF DELAWARE activities encourage academic excellence, pro- Reuse System. Total project cost is approx. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mote positive self-esteem, stress community $24 million. Federal share cannot exceed 25% Wednesday, March 4, 2009 involvement, and promote growth opportunities of that amount. The local communities provide for students and their families. Future funding the remaining 75%. Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with requests are expected. Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute Budget breakdown for the project: CARTER to Fred Sears, II. In a state with many ‘‘firsts’’ PERSONNEL: ($628,943) Bill Number: H.R. 1105 in its history, I am proud of the fact that Fred 18 CIS Site Directors @ $30,603 annual Account: Department of Justice, OJP-Byrne Sears will be the first recipient of the ‘‘Goldey- salary = $550,854 Discretionary Grants Beacom College Ethics in Business Award.’’ (each Site Director will case manage a min- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Tarleton As a native of Delaware, Fred’s career in imum of 100 students) State University the banking industry spanned 38 years and 1 Data Entry Spclst @ $20,912 annual sal- Address of Requesting Entity: 1333 W. culminated with his serving as President of ary = $20,912 Washington, Stephenville, TX 76402 Commerce Bank. Since 2003, Fred has 10% Fringe for 19 these positions = Description of Request: Provide an earmark served as President and CEO of the Delaware $57,177 of $1.5 million to establish a rural law enforce- Community Foundation where he oversees the (7.65% FICA and Medicare and 2.35% Or- ment information technology and anti-terrorism management of 900 funds with more than ganizational Insurance—W/C, Professional Li- service at Tarleton State University. On an an- $230 million in assets and the distribution of ability) nual basis, approximately 28.4% will be used $15 million in grants annually. These chari- PROGRAM EXPENSES: ($22,464) for salaries and benefits; 7.9% for travel for table funds benefit all of us in Delaware. Currently, the average cost for overseeing training and meetings with agencies; 1% for However, Fred’s leadership at the Delaware CIS Campus operations is $1,248 per cam- equipment; .7% for office supplies; 5.4% for Community Foundation is only a small glimpse pus. With an addition of 18 campuses, the consulting for steering committees; 54% for of the impact he has had on our community. total cost will be $22,464. This cost covers the database records management and assist- He has served on at least 56 boards, clubs or coordinated services as mandated for CIS by ance; and .3% for meeting expenses and tele- organizations over the past five decades. His the Texas Education Agency by: 1) providing conferencing. leadership, guidance, counsel and support are documentation to report program progress, 2) Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. sought by government entities, non-profits, supervising CIS campus staff, 3) collaborating CARTER sports programs, community groups, edu- with ISD and campus administrators to maxi- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 cational institutions, and businesses. His will- mize program success, and 4) overseeing the Account: Department of Justice, COPS Law ingness to help others has no limit and we are coordination of resources for students and Enforcement Technology all forever appreciative of what he has done to their families. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of make our state a better place for everyone. TOTAL COST: $651,407 Austin Leaders like Fred Sears come along once Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. Address of Requesting Entity: 301 West 2nd every couple of generations. His integrity and CARTER Street, Austin, TX 78701 ethics are unsurpassed and he is a great ex- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Description of Request: I have requested an ample for others to follow. This is not the first Account: EPA State and Tribal Assistance earmark of $350,000 to complete phase 1 of time Fred has been honored or recognized for Grant (STAG) a security camera system for pedestrian-heavy his good deeds. In 1977 the Wilmington Junior Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of and crime-ridden areas of the City of Austin. Chamber of Commerce presented him with Temple, TX The initial build out will include 2–5 cameras, the Young Man of the Year Award. Since then Address of Requesting Entity: 2 North Main with the capacity to expand to a 20–100 cam- Fred has been recognized by the Boy Scouts Street, Suite 306, Temple, TX 76501 era system. The cameras will be able to cap- of America, the Wilmington Rotary Club, the Description of Request: $500,000 was se- ture and transmit real-time video footage and United Negro College Fund, the NCCJ, and cured for a wastewater Interceptor that will en- have high-resolution, outdoor pan/tilt/zoom, the Opportunity Center, Inc. Each time, these able the construction of approximately 9,000 and low light vision capabilities. Approximately community organizations recognized Fred for feet of wastewater main line and 11,500 feet 60% of the grant funds will be applied towards his leadership and willingness to assist others. of wastewater interceptor. $50,000 will be design, hardware (including servers) and in- I have known Fred for many, many years spent on a Preliminary Design, $155,000 on stallation costs; the remaining 40% for soft- and I am most proud of being able to call him the Final Design, $10,000 to Bid & Award con- ware, installation and maintenance. my friend. Individuals like Fred Sears bring struction, $1.7 million for construction, and Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. about positive change, and when a small state $85,000 for construction administration. The CARTER like Delaware finds someone like him it allows federal government has provided $500,000 of Bill Number: H.R. 1105 us to show a nation how people working to- the $2 million price tag. The requesting entity Account: NRCS, Conservation Operations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Texas gether can make the world a better place. I will provide the required funding match. congratulate Fred on receiving the first ever Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. A&M University Address of Requesting Entity: 113 Jack K. ‘‘Goldey-Beacom College Ethics in Business CARTER Williams Administrative Bldg., 2142 TAMU, Award’’ and thank him for his extraordinary Bill Number: H.R. 1105 service to Delaware. Account: Corps of Engineers—O&M College Station, TX 77843 f Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Con- Description of Request: I have requested an gressman JOHN R. CARTER earmark of $333,000 to demonstrate the use HONORING RED CROSS MONTH Address of Requesting Entity: 409 Cannon of composted dairy manure, soil management, House Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20515 seeding, and erosion control structures to in- HON. ZOE LOFGREN crease vegetation and reduce erosion on ma- Description of Request: $2.85 million in the OF CALIFORNIA neuver areas. Research results are docu- O&M account for the Army Corps of Engi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES neers, Fort Worth District (SWF) to repair menting practice impacts on vegetation growth Wednesday, March 4, 2009 three parks surrounding Stillhouse Hollow and water quality. In addition, the project is re- Dam and Lake which were devastated in June moving composted dairy manure from the Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Madam 2007 during massive rains and flooding. North Bosque River watershed to help meet Speaker, I rise this March day to celebrate Requesting Member: Congressman JOHN R. total maximum daily load requirements. Ap- ‘‘Red Cross Month.’’ Since 1943, we have CARTER proximately $188,700 will be spent on salaries been celebrating March as Red Cross Month Bill Number: H.R. 1105 and benefits; $52,329 will be used for supplies and promoting the services provided to the Account: Bureau of Reclamation—Title 16 and materials; $6342 will go toward travel ex- public by the Red Cross each day. The Red Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Lower penses; $19,029 will be applied to equipment Cross has been at the forefront of helping indi- Colorado River Authority (LCRA) rental and contracts; and $66,600 will be viduals and families prevent, prepare for, and Address of Requesting Entity: 3700 Lake spent on administrative fees of the NRCS and respond to large and small scale disasters for Austin Blvd. Austin, TX 78767 AgriLife. more than 127 years.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.001 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E542 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 In my district, the Santa Clara Chapter of Over 30 percent of 7th graders in California using the federal poverty level, find it dif- the American Red Cross helps many people in are overweight and almost 40 percent cannot ficult to pay the reduced fee, and the fee for times of need. They range from victims of dis- pass the state’s fitness test. a paid meal is an insurmountable barrier to The Resolution passed by the California participation for an increasing number of asters such as house or apartment fires, families in California; and floods or mudslides, and earthquakes; to vic- Legislature urges Congress and the President Whereas, The eligibility scale to qualify tims encountered through national disasters of the United States to ensure that child nutri- pupils for free or reduced-price meals is the such as Hurricanes Ike and Katrina and inter- tion programs establish comprehensive nutri- same scale throughout the country and does national disasters such as the 2005 tsunami tion and wellness policies in schools. not consider regions with higher costs of liv- and the philippine earthquake. In addition, this resolution supports the re- ing; and This year in my district, the American Red authorization of federal child nutrition pro- Whereas, A self-sufficiency index, which Cross Chapter is hard at work and has al- grams and requests adequate reimbursements identifies the income levels at which fami- ready responded to local disasters, including a to fund the cost of producing a healthy school lies can meet their most basic needs without public support, is available in all regions to 5-unit townhome fire on January 12, 2009 that meal in the region where it is served. I urge my colleagues to follow California’s apply to meal eligibility standards; and left 14 people homeless and caused more Whereas, A single-parent household with than $2 million in damages. example and work together to ensure proper two children in San Mateo County, Cali- The Red Cross is committed to making our nutrition and fitness for American children. fornia, needs $67,867 to be self-sufficient, homes and our communities safe and works I would now like to insert the following text while a similar family in Hardeman County, closely with local, state and national partners from the California Assembly Joint Resolution Tennessee, is self-sufficient with only $21,657; to help people personalize their risk to natural No. 69. now, therefore, be it hazards and make preparedness a personal ASSEMBLY JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 69 Resolved by the Assembly and the Senate of Whereas, The National School Lunch Pro- the State of California, jointly, That the Legis- priority. Join me in applauding the hard work lature supports reauthorization of federal of the American Red Cross volunteers and gram is declared to be the policy of Congress, ‘‘as a measure of national security, to safe- child nutrition programs and urges the celebrating March as American Red Cross guard the health and well-being of the na- President and the Congress of the United Month. tion’s children and to encourage the domes- States to ensure that reimbursement rates f tic consumption of nutritious agricultural are adequate to fully fund the cost of pro- commodities and other food, by assisting the ducing a nutritious school meal relative to A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE states, through grants-in-aid and other the cost of living in a region; and be it fur- 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE means, in providing an adequate supply of ther TUSCARAWAS COUNTY CHAMBER food and other facilities for the establish- Resolved, That the eligibility scale used to OF COMMERCE. ment, maintenance, operation, and expan- qualify families for free and reduced-price sion of nonprofit school lunch programs’’; meals be adjusted according to the self-suffi- and ciency index for the region served; and be it HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE Whereas, Federal regulations further state further OF OHIO that participating schools shall ensure that Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the As- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES children gain a full understanding of the re- sembly transmit copies of this resolution to lationship between proper eating and good the President and Vice President of the Wednesday, March 4, 2009 health; and United States, to the Speaker of the House Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: Whereas, Child nutrition programs are re- of Representatives, to the Majority Leader of Whereas, the Tuscarawas County Chamber sponsible for collaborating with the school the Senate, and to each Senator and Rep- community to implement comprehensive nu- resentative from California in the Congress of Commerce has nearly 600 businesses as trition and wellness policies in school dis- of the United States. members; and tricts; and Whereas, at 1:15 PM on May 21, 1959, the Whereas, All of California’s more than 6 f Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce million pupils deserve access to high-quality, was created out of the former New Philadel- safe, nutritious meals available in the school FLORIDA EVERGLADES BRIDGE phia Chamber of Commerce; and setting, recognizing the link between ade- Whereas, the Tuscarawas County Chamber quate nourishment and educational perform- HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. ance; and of Commerce has been instrumental in attract- Whereas, Children that experience hunger OF TENNESSEE ing new industries to the area; and have been shown to be more likely to have IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Whereas, the Chamber of Commerce has lower math scores, decreased attentiveness, Wednesday, March 4, 2009 held as the core of its mission to promote the increased likelihood of repeating a grade, in- civic, economic and social welfare of creased absences and tardiness, and more re- Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, in yester- Tuscarawas County; therefore, be it ferrals to special education services; and day’s Washington Times is an article about a Resolved that along with the friends, mem- Whereas, Child nutrition programs in Cali- very controversial bridge project through the fornia provide over 4 million meals to school Florida Everglades. ber businesses, and the residents of the 18th children daily, and must comply with com- Congressional District, I commend the plex state and federal requirements, provide This project has been strongly opposed by Tuscarawas County Chamber of Commerce adequate food preparation and dining facili- the Miccosukee Tribe through whose land this for their staunch support of the county and ties, and meet budget requirements despite bridge would be built. their ever-present efforts to bring economic rapidly escalating food, energy, transpor- A federal judge has blasted this projected growth and industry to the people of tation, labor, and other costs; and bridge in a scathing opinion, but our Omnibus Tuscarawas County. Whereas, Losses in the school meal pro- bill ordered that it be constructed anyway. grams must be offset by other revenue f The estimated cost is $225 million, but be- sources that would otherwise support class- cause almost all federal projects are given CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS room instruction; and Whereas, For each lunch provided to a lowball estimates on the front end, it would child who qualifies for a free meal, the esti- probably end up costing much, much more. I HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ mated average cost of producing the lunch is have discussed this project with my friend, OF CALIFORNIA $3.10; the reimbursement received for each Representative MARIO DIAZ-BALART in whose meal, provided that all state and federal re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES district this bridge project is located. quirements are met, is $2.6895 (a federal re- He told me he has discussed this bridge Wednesday, March 4, 2009 imbursement of $2.47 and a state reimburse- with the Army Corps of Engineers and all of ment of $0.2195); and Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. Whereas, The difference between reim- the interested parties. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate bursement and cost undermines the ability He believes that, while a bridge may have the California Legislature on the passage of to continue to provide nutritious meals to to be built at some point, that other, cheaper Assembly Joint Resolution No. 69 addressing all pupils; and alternatives should be considered first. child nutrition programs. Whereas, The United States Department of I agree with Representative BALART, for The high occurrence of malnutrition, obesity Agriculture recognizes higher cost as a fac- whom I have the greatest respect. tor in determining reimbursement rates by and poor fitness in California are frightening. allowing a higher federal reimbursement I would like to call to the attention of my col- Currently, only 6 percent of school lunches rate in Alaska and Hawaii; and leagues and other readers of the RECORD the meet all of the School Meal Initiative (SMI) Whereas, Many families that qualify for re- following article about this project from the standards. duced-price meals, prescribed by federal law Washington Times.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.003 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E543 [From the Washington Times] Miccosukee land is going to be further dam- THANKING DEBORAH PRICE FOR ‘BRIDGE TO NOWHERE’ OK’D FOR EVERGLADES aged,’’ said Terry Rice, owner of an environ- HER SERVICE TO THE HOUSE (By Stephen Dinan) mental services company and a former head of the Army Corps of Engineers district that A provision buried inside Congress’ giant includes the Everglades, who served as a wit- HON. ROBERT A. BRADY spending bill would overturn a federal court ness for the tribe in court. OF PENNSYLVANIA order, discard part of environmental law and ‘‘Why do you say you have to build a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES reject an Indian tribe’s plea, forcing the gov- project and you’re not going to abide by any ernment to build a bridge in Everglades Na- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 laws unless you can’t abide by the laws?’’ tional Park that a federal judge declared ‘‘a Mr. Rice said. Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Madam complete waste of taxpayer dollars.’’ The judge apparently agreed. Speaker, on the occasion of her retirement at The project is being opposed by the the end of February 2009, I rise to thank Ms. Miccosukee tribe, and U.S. District Judge In issuing her preliminary injunction Ursula Ungaro called it an ‘‘environmental against the bridge, she said it won’t begin to Deborah Price for her 25 years of outstanding bridge to nowhere.’’ She ordered the govern- help water flow until the corps takes other service to the United States House of Rep- ment in November to comply with federal steps, which are still in the planning stages. resentatives. environmental laws, which would further Given that, the judge said, rushing to build Deborah began her career with the House delay the long-controversial project. the project amounts to ‘‘no more than con- on September 19, 1984, and served in posi- But lawmakers inserted a provision in the struction of an ‘environmental bridge to notions within the Office of Finance of the Chief 1,123-page omnibus spending bill that is where’ that accomplishes (and harms) nothing but which would be a complete waste of Administrative Officer. As a Team Lead within pending in the Senate. It waives those laws the Office of Financial Counseling, she pro- and in sweeping language orders the Army taxpayer dollars.’’ Corps of Engineers to begin building the Backers acknowledged that tacking this vided financial assistance and guidance to all bridge ‘‘immediately and without further sort of provision onto a spending bill was un- Member and Committee offices including mon- delay.’’ usual, but said the bridge has widespread itoring and projecting available fund balances Those pushing for the bridge, which would support, and only the tribe—and now the fed- and ensuring expenditures comply with both elevate the Tamiami Trail roadway to allow eral judge—objected. House and Committee rules and regulations. water to flow freely into the Everglades, say Still, it could not be learned Monday who Deborah has provided financial guidance to Congress’ urgency is justified. approved the insertion of the provision that every entity of the House, assuring that House ‘‘The project has been studied and delayed forces the bridge to be built into the $410 bil- staff and vendors are paid accurately. Her lion spending bill making its way through over and over again for 20 years. Meantime, passionate customer service and tireless com- one of the world’s great treasures continues Congress. to die,’’ said Dan McLaughlin, a spokesman The Miccosukee, in an ad last week, mitment to the countless House staff members for Sen. Bill Nelson, Florida Democrat. ‘‘The blamed House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and who have worked with her will be deeply National Academy of Sciences, in a report to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid for the missed. Congress, says the bridge is needed to allow measure. The tribe called it ‘‘a lamentable On behalf of the entire House community, water north of the road to flow south into blast from the past in American history.’’ we extend congratulations to Deborah for her the Everglades. Senator Nelson supports it. But both leaders’ offices said they weren’t many years of dedication and contributions to It’s absolutely essential to restoring the responsible. the financial management of the House. We ‘Glades. No bridge—no water flow. No ‘‘We had nothing to do with this,’’ said Jim wish Deborah many wonderful years enjoying water—no Everglades.’’ Manley, a spokesman for Mr. Reid, Nevada her retirement. But the Miccosukee, who went to court Democrat. last year to stop the bridge, are crying foul, ‘‘This language was included at the request f saying it’s hypocritical of Congress to ignore of the Bush administration and has bipar- A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE its own environmental laws. tisan support. Neither the speaker nor her 187TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE The tribe also said that overturning a office played a role in its inclusion,’’ said court order smacks of the broken treaties Drew Hammill, a spokesman for Mrs. Pelosi, QUINN CHAPEL AFRICAN METH- and poor treatment Indians suffered in years California Democrat. ODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH past. The Army Corps of Engineers also said it ‘‘You tell the tribe to follow the law, but wasn’t the source. HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE when the tribe follows the law and wins, you ‘‘To our knowledge the corps did not pro- OF OHIO throw them out of court. It’s really immoral mote or draft this language,’’ said spokes- and unconscionable,’’ said Dexter Lehtinen, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES woman Lt. Col Elizabeth Robbins. an attorney for the tribe. His wife is Rep. The Interior Department did not return Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, a Florida Republican messages for comment. who Mr. Lehtinen said recuses herself from Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: these matters. Spokesmen for Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Whereas, the Quinn Chapel African Meth- The $212 million bridge is part of a complex California Democrat, and Rep. Norm Dicks, odist Episcopal Church was founded in 1821 and contentious decades-old plan to try to Washington Democrat, the chairmen of the and is celebrating its 187th anniversary in restore the free flow of water through the Senate and House subcommittees that wrote Chillicothe, Ohio; and Everglades, the swamp that covers much of the parts of the bill funding the Interior De- Whereas, the congregation of Quinn Chapel partment, didn’t have a comment Monday southern Florida and is considered critical to African Methodist Episcopal Church can trace the state’s ecosystem. Decades of develop- night. A spokeswoman said Rep. Mario Diaz- their roots to the first Methodist church con- ment and road-building have ruined the gregation in Chillicothe and can boast to be usual water flows. Balart, a Florida Republican whose district Plans to restore water flow have changed could be affected, was unavailable, while a among the first African Methodist Episcopal repeatedly, and parts have been caught up in spokeswoman for Sen. Mel Martinez, Florida churches in the state, and litigation, including the proposal to build a Republican, said the senator did not request Whereas, the church was founded to extend one-mile-long bridge along the northern the provision, but she said she couldn’t say equal rights and privileges of worship to Afri- park boundary at the Tamiami Trail, or U.S. whether he supported it. can congregants at a time when such Highway 41, which backers say would help Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a Florida congregants were not afforded the same con- the free flow. Democrat whose district is also affected, siderations as their white brethren and has does support moving forward, said spokes- The Miccosukee trace their time in the Ev- continued to seek equality and brotherhood erglades back to the 1700s when they moved man Jonathan Beeton. to avoid encroaching upon European settlers ‘‘The congresswoman supports this project that transcends race. Congregants from the farther north, in what is now Georgia, Ala- because it is the essential next step in Ever- Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal bama and northern Florida. They gained glades restoration,’’ Mr. Beeton said. ‘‘This Church played integral roles in the Under- U.S. government recognition in 1962 and view is supported by the National Academy ground Railroad and other abolitionist causes have both official reservation land and other of Sciences. At the same time, she under- throughout the 19th century; now, therefore, land in perpetual lease. stands the concerns and the deep commit- be it Rather than the bridge, the tribe wants the ment of the Miccosukee Tribe to the restora- Resolved that along with the residents of government to instead clean out culverts tion of the Everglades.’’ the 18th Congressional District, I commend Several Democrats pointed to the Bush ad- and build swells that the Miccosukee say the Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal better and more cheaply restore water flow. ministration’s support for the provision. But ‘‘The judge found that the likelihood is that came in his fiscal 2009 budget, sub- Church for nearly two centuries of dedication that people in Miami-Dade County are going mitted nine months before the judge ruled and service to the Chillicothe community and to be flooded, there’s not going to be any that the environmental laws hadn’t been fol- their efforts to preach equality and faith among benefit to Everglades National Park, and lowed. all races and religions throughout the years.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.005 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E544 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 RECOGNITION OF THE PASSING IN HONOR OF JOHN JOSEPH Whereas, Tuscarawas County Council for AND LIFE OF WILBERT ‘‘BILL’’ ‘‘WACKO’’ HURLEY OF SOUTH Church and Community has been faithfully TATUM BOSTON, MA serving the community of Tuscarawas County since 1966; and HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH Whereas, the Tuscarawas County Council OF MASSACHUSETTS for Church and Community has participated in OF NEW YORK IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ‘‘Character Counts! Week,’’ a character build- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, March 4, 2009 ing program meant to instill six pillars of char- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 acter in children, from October 19–25; and Mr. LYNCH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in Whereas, the ‘‘Character Counts!’’ program Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, once in a honor of John Joseph ‘‘Wacko’’ Hurley, in rec- while someone leaves this Earth and their teaches young people about the six pillars of ognition of his outstanding contributions to his character—trustworthiness, respect, responsi- life’s story needs to be told, not just because hometown of South Boston, MA, and to com- it’s interesting, but because it illustrates les- bility, fairness, caring, and citizenship—and is mend him for over 50 years of dedicated serv- an enrichment and community extension of sons that should be passed along. Madam ice to his community. the Tuscarawas County Council for Church Speaker, I rise today to recall the life Wilbert The son of Margaret and Michael Hurley, ‘‘Bill’’ Tatum, longtime publisher of the immigrants from County Kerry, Ireland, John and Community Character Formation Pro- Amsterd News and my personal friend, who, was born on May 11, 1930 in South Boston gram, now, therefore, be it Resolved that along with the residents of to the sadness and shock of my community, and lived on East Fifth St. until 1965 when he the 18th Congressional District, I commend died suddenly last week. Bill lived the life that moved to East Fourth St. in South Boston the participants of the ‘‘Character Counts!’’ people dream of and few attain, and while where he currently resides. program on their commitment to citizenship doing so became a friend, mentor, and ‘‘broth- John attended Nazareth School at O and and respect of themselves and one another. I er’’ to countless people. Third St., and South Boston High School grad- also commend those involved in the program In the early 1970s, Mr. Tatum, along with uating in 1948. Subsequent to his graduation, for their dedication to the youth of our commu- former State Comptroller H. Carl McCall and John enlisted in the United States Navy, serv- nity and preparing them for lives of thoughtful- former Manhattan borough president Percy ing from 1950–1952 aboard the USS Noah ness, respect, and civic responsibility. Sutton, bought the Amsterdam News. This (DD–841). venture into the news industry reflected their Upon completion of his distinguished service f to our country, John worked for the State Vet- longtime involvement in civic activism and EARMARK DECLARATIONS passion for their community. Bill maximized erans Services for 20 years. Following this position, John worked as an office manager for his passion as the paper’s publisher, a role for HON. GARY G. MILLER which his life prepared him. the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Author- OF CALIFORNIA Bill’s voice goes back to his high school ora- ity for 18 years. Along with providing distinguished service to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tory competition days in North Carolina. He his country and his state, John is also an ac- was a journalist, writing for three small news- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 tive member of his community. A faithful pa- papers that provided information to Black rishioner at St. Brigid’s Church in South Bos- Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Madam farmers. He served his country in the Marine ton, John can be found daily at the 7 a.m. Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leader- Corps, graduated from Lincoln University in early morning mass followed by his walk ship standards on earmarks, I am submitting Pennsylvania, and received his master’s de- around Castle Island. John also brought to the the following information regarding earmarks I gree from Occidental College in Los Angeles. United States Supreme Court the case (John received as part of the FY 2009 Omnibus. In New York, he was a community activist who J. Hurley v. GLIB) that affirmed the First Requesting Member: Congressman GARY served as deputy Manhattan Borough Presi- Amendment right of the South Boston Allied G. MILLER dent under Percy Sutton’s borough presidency War Veterans Council to organize a private Bill Number: H.R. 1105 and held various city-level posts. parade. He won a victory with a 9–0 vote. This Account: Natural Resources Conservation Under Bill’s ownership, the Amsterdam law can now be found in every law book in the Service, Resource Conservation and Develop- News was a brash and controversial voice for country. In fact, John has organized the Evac- ment the Black community, regularly scorching poli- uation Day/St. Patrick’s Day Parade in South Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Municipal ticians like 1970’s Mayor Ed Koch. He was Boston for the past 50 years. Water District of Orange County one of the angriest—and most eloquent—of John was recently awarded the Bishop Address of Requesting Entity: 18700 Ward voices on issues of politics, civil rights, and Cheverus Medal from Cardinal Sean O’Malley, Street, Fountain Valley, CA 92728 community action. What some perceived as Archbishop of Boston, for Community Service Funding Secured: $134,000 sensational journalism, we in the community and Catholic Dedication. You will find John Description of Request: Funding will be knew reflected the honest views of the pub- every Thanksgiving and Christmas at St. used to expand an existing $2.2 million pro- lisher and his readers. At the same time, he Monica/St. Augustine serving holiday meals to gram launched in 2004 to distribute an addi- filled the pages with colorful articles on social the less fortunate. tional 5,500 Smart Irrigation Controllers by the and community happenings. Madam Speaker, John is known for his end of 2011 to the highest water using resi- Bill was a gentleman who loved people and quick sense of humor and great storytelling. dential and commercial properties in Orange derived no bigger joy than helping his commu- He has had the good fortune to be married to County. This ‘‘smart’’ Irrigation Controller tech- nity. He gave opportunities to scores of bud- Molly for 56 years; they are the proud parents nology assists customers in delivering the ap- ding journalists and was a friend and profes- of 7 children, 15 grandchildren, and 2 great propriate amount of irrigation water to land- sional mentor to many. A kind and decent per- grandchildren. scape based on soil, slope, type of landscape, son with a keen sense of humor, Bill was a Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to and changing water conditions. Smart irriga- man for all seasons and fierce defender of the take the floor of the House today to join with tion controllers will help use exiting water re- causes he believed in. Despite an illness that John J. ‘‘Wacko’’ Hurley’s family, friends, and sources and efficiently as possible to help take confined him to a wheelchair, he and his be- contemporaries to thank him for his remark- pressure off of our imported water supplies loved wife Susan continued their travels able service to his community of South Bos- from Northern California and the Colorado around the world. He entrusted his daughter ton. River. When fully implemented there will be a Eli to succeed him as publisher and editor, f reoccurring 40,000 acre foot savings of water and she has done an admirable and success- A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE every year. ful job in filling his shoes. TUSCARAWAS COUNTY COUNCIL Requesting Member: Congressman GARY Wilbert Bill Tatum will be remembered as an FOR CHURCH AND COMMUNITY G. MILLER honorable man of tough love, who used his Bill Number: H.R. 1105 brilliant mind and the First Amendment to de- HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE Account: Community Oriented Policing Serv- nounce injustices he saw in his community. ices’ Law Enforcement Technology Program OF OHIO His life reminds us that the greatest love we Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES can share with others is the power to speak Brea up and be honest about where we are and Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Address of Requesting Entity: 1 Civic Cen- where we need to go. I will miss him dearly. Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: ter Circle, Brea, CA 92821

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.007 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E545 Funding Secured: $50,000 lent of crimes, such as homicides and rapes. Address of Requesting Entity: 18700 Ward Description of Request: The City will use the Due to these backlogs, volume crimes are ei- Street, Fountain Valley, California funds to develop of a forensics criminal ther ‘‘not processed’’ or significantly delayed. It Funding Secured: $558,000 science laboratory for its police department. is well documented that those who commit Description of Request: Funds will be used This will allow the Brea Police Department to burglaries, also commit other crimes. These to supply 72,000 acre feet per year of water meet legal and scientific standards in the crimes include, but are not limited to, rapes, and will provide the backbone facilities for fu- proper handling and processing of biological homicides, robberies, gang violence, drug posture ground water replenishment system ex- evidence (DNA, blood, semen, saliva, and tis- session and sales, carjacking, auto theft, etc. pansion. The Groundwater Replenishment sues); to process evidence in a manner that Requesting Member: Congressman GARY System (GWR System) is a jointly funded meets safety standards for the evidence tech- G. MILLER project of the Orange County Water District nicians; more efficiently and effectively identify Bill Number: H.R. 1105 (OCWD) and the Orange County Sanitation and collect latent fingerprint evidence through Account: Office of Justice Programs, Byrne District (OCSD) with OCWD serving as the the use of chemistry and light. The creation of Discretionary Grants lead or constructing agency. When complete, the forensics criminal science laboratory will Legal Name of Requesting Entity: County of the GWR System will be the largest water re- give the Department the means in which to San Bernardino cycling project of its kind in the world, reusing identify more suspects and solve more crime. Address of Requesting Entity: 655 E Third 140,000 acre feet per year (AFY) of advance It will also reduce the workload on outside Street, San Bernardino, California treated wastewater (recycled water). Phase I, Funding Secured: $1,925,000 companies that Brea Police Department con- currently under construction, will supply Description of Request: The request is for tracts with and the Orange County Sheriff’s 72,000 AFY and will provide the backbone fa- the purchase of the Automated Fingerprint crime lab. Finally, it will allow the department cilities for future GWR System expansion. The Identification System for mobile and fixed to control the speed in which evidence is proc- GWR System will supplement existing water identification. In 1985, the Counties of River- essed and maintained. supplies by providing a new, reliable, high- side and San Bernardino embarked on a joint Requesting Member: Congressman GARY quality source of water to recharge the Orange venture to create a regional identification sys- G. MILLER County Groundwater Basin and protect the tem designed to be shared by all law enforce- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Basin from further degradation due to sea- ment agencies in the 27,360 square mile juris- Account: Office of Justice Programs, Juve- water intrusion. By treating excess storm flows diction (with a combined population of over nile Justice Delinquency Programs along the Santa Ana River, the GWR System 3,250,000). The system provides fingerprint, Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Hope project also postpones the need for OCSD to photo, and DNA services to all public safety Through Housing Foundation construct a new ocean outfall in Huntington agencies including the local police depart- Address of Requesting Entity: 9065 Haven Beach. ments, district attorneys, school districts, coro- Avenue, Suite 100 Rancho Cucamonga, Cali- Requesting Member: Congressman GARY ners, and Sheriffs’ Departments in both coun- fornia 91730 G. MILLER ties. It is also available to other state and fed- Funding Secured: $750,000 Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Description of Request: Funding will be eral law enforcement agencies that utilize Account: Environmental Protection Agency’s used to administer an after school program on these services on a routine basis. State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) Requesting Member: Congressman GARY site at National CORE affordable housing fa- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Orange G. MILLER cilities that is designed to help prevent vio- County Sanitation District Bill Number: H.R. 1105 lence and keep at risk youths off the streets. Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Con- Address of Requesting Entity: Ellis Avenue, This program includes an array of services es- struction Fountain Valley, California 92708 sential to assisting at-risk youth gain the re- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: County of Funding Secured: $300,000 sources they will need to succeed in life and Orange Description of Request: The Orange County school. An afternoon at Hope’s After School Address of Requesting Entity: 300 N Flower Sanitation District (OCSD) is under a Consent and Beyond—Violence Prevention includes: Street, Santa Ana, California Decree mandate to comply with the Clean team building exercises, self esteem building Funding Secured: $14,000,000 Water Act through implementation of sec- activities, homework assistance, family literacy Description of Request: This funding will go ondary wastewater treatment standards. The and Peace Builders, the nationally acclaimed to construction, acquisition of property rights, Consent Decree compliance effort requires violence prevention curriculum. These ele- relocations, environmental mitigation and en- that OCSD undertake an enormous capital im- ments will further develop positive and com- hancement in Orange, Riverside, and San provement program to construct, rehabilitate, munity networks that will support youth in their Bernardino counties for the Santa Ana River and upgrade the facilities needed to comply journey into adulthood, and will support their Mainstem Project. The Army Corps of Engi- with secondary treatment standards. Federal families in helping them on this journey. neers considers the Santa Ana River as the support has been provided to municipalities, Requesting Member: Congressman GARY worst flood threat west of the Mississippi including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, G. MILLER River. The Corps estimated that 3 million peo- and Boston, for similar projects. These funds Bill Number: H.R. 1105 ple and 110,000 acres would be impacted, will go to meet this mandate. Account: Office of Justice Programs, Com- with potential loss of 3,000 lives and $15 bil- Requesting Member: Congressman GARY munity Oriented Police Services’ Law Enforce- lion in economic losses in 1987 price levels. G. MILLER ment Technology Estimated impacts and loss without the Project Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Orange being constructed would be much greater with Account: Department of Education, Elemen- County District Attorney current population growth and value of land tary and Secondary Education Address of Requesting Entity: 401 Civic and structures. In addition to protecting a Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Hope Center Drive, Santa Ana, California 92701 large, highly populated and rapidly growing Through Housing Foundation Funding Secured: $500,000 area of Southern California, the Project has Address of Requesting Entity: 9065 Haven Description of Request: Funds will provide and will improve protection of major transpor- Avenue, Suite 100 Rancho Cucamonga, Cali- for three DNA mobile collection vehicles that tation corridors. The Santa Ana River fornia 91730 would travel to the five branch courts in Or- Mainstem Project including Prado Dam was Funding Secured: $330,000 ange County to collect DNA on site from of- authorized under the Water Resources Devel- Description of Request: These funds will be fenders and volunteers. Funds would also pro- opment Act (WRDA) of 1986, and Section 309 used to administer an after school tutoring vide for related equipment, supplies and DNA of WRDA, 1996. The flood control districts of program on site at National CORE housing fa- processing. By expanding collection efforts, these counties are the Local Sponsors who cilities. The project will combine intensive age- the District Attorney would be able to collect are responsible for implementing the Project. appropriate academic tutoring with enrichment approximately 50 samples a day. The Orange Requesting Member: Congressman GARY activity for children in grades K–8. In addition, County District Attorney DNA Expansion G. MILLER a family literacy component and community Project will strengthen local law enforcement Bill Number: H.R. 1105 building technical assistance program will efforts to solve, and ultimately prevent, ‘‘vol- Account: Department of the Interior and strengthen the support services available to ume crimes’’ such as burglaries, auto thefts, U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, Water and Re- children and youth. The program includes tu- and robberies. Currently, throughout the coun- lated Resources, Title XVI toring each day where a student attends, they try, law enforcement DNA laboratories are Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Orange receive 60 minutes of small group academic backlogged and must focus on the most vio- County Water District tutoring in both math and English/language

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.009 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E546 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 arts. Each learning center is a literacy-rich en- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of at risk of going to market rate, and full service vironment stocked with age appropriate books, Rancho Santa Margarita construction management with expertise in as well as creative writing and reading mate- Address of Requesting Entity: 22112 El multifamily and mixed use development. rials. Students are encouraged to check out Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita, California f books, create journals, and engage in any Funding Secured: $95,000 A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE type of activity that encourages them to read Description of Request: The project will con- SANDY VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL and write. sist of removing failed pavement, installing Requesting Member: Congressman GARY new pavement in the failed areas, cold milling CARDINALS FOOTBALL TEAM G. MILLER the pavement, overlaying the entire roadway Bill Number: H.R. 1105 surface with Asphalt Rubber Hot Mix, repairing HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE Account: Health Resources & Services Ad- the sidewalks, installing Concrete Access OF OHIO ministration Ramps, adjusting utility manholes and water IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Children’s valves to grade, and installing new striping Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Hospital of Orange County at Mission and traffic loops along the Antonio Parkway. Address of Requesting Entity: 27700 Med- Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: The Antonio Parkway was constructed in the Whereas, the Sandy Valley High School ical Center Road, Mission Viejo, California mid to late 1980s. Since that time, heavy use 92691 Cardinals football team admirably squared off combined with the natural aging process has against the Garaway High School Pirates on Funding Secured: $95,000 caused transverse block cracking, heaving, Description of Request: Funds will be used the night of Friday, September 12, 2008; and and shoving on its surface. A new surface to purchase needed equipment to retrofit all Whereas, recognizing the game was not course of asphalt rubber hot mix combined patient rooms on the Medical/Surgical unit with going their way, the Sandy Valley Cardinals, with full depth dig-out repairs will extend the sleep sofas to improve the comfort and restful- under the direction of Coach John Groff, ex- life of the pavement another 20 years. ness of overnight accommodations for parents emplified the finest in sportsmanship and class Requesting Member: Congressman GARY of children in the Children’s Hospital of Or- by allowing the Pirate’s team manager, Craig G. MILLER ange County at Mission. To facilitate and Gordon, a young man with Down Syndrome, Bill Number: H.R. 1105 maximize parental and family involvement in to record his first touch of the football during Account: Department of Housing and Urban a game; and patient care at CHOC at Mission, the hospital Development, Economic Development Initia- Whereas, Cardinals players allowed Gordon maintains open visiting hours and encourages tive to carry the football into the end zone for a parents to spend as much time as possible Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Hillview touchdown, giving him a memory and a feeling with their children, including sleeping overnight Acres Children’s Home of pride that will last a lifetime, now, therefore, with their children, in the hospital. CHOC at Address of Requesting Entity: 3683 Chino be it Mission provides a family lounge area, two Avenue, Chino, California Resolved that along with the residents of separate parent sleep rooms with bathrooms, Funding Secured: $95,000 the 18th Congressional District, I commend and sleep accommodations for parents in Description of Request: This request is for the players and coaches of the Sandy Valley each room on the general Medical/Surgical construction and improvements to Hiliview High School Cardinals for showing the very unit. Acres Children’s Home facilities. One of the highest in class, sportsmanship, and character Requesting Member: Congressman GARY biggest challenges Hiliview faces today is their by allowing Gordon the opportunity to fulfill a G. MILLER aging physical plant. The campus’s relation- dream of scoring a touchdown during a game Bill Number: H.R. 1105 in his senior year. Coach Groff, his coaching Account: Federal Highway Administration, ship impact model was written and imple- staff, and the Cardinals players have proven Interstate Maintenance Discretionary mented in the 1970s. Since that time, Hiliview Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Orange has continued to be progressive in the way to be decent and honorable men who should County Transportation Authority they treat and care for injured children. As be proud of their actions on the field that Address of Requesting Entity: 550 South their success in taking care of abused and ne- night. Main Street, Orange, CA 92868 glected children maintains and increases in f strength, their facilities have weakened and no Funding Secured: $237,500 TROOPS TO TEACHERS longer parallel the quality of their program. Description of Request: Funds will be used IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2009 for the examination of the technical feasibility Requesting Member: Congressman GARY of options to connect SR–91 Express Lanes G. MILLER with SR–241 and for the preliminary engineer- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 HON. THOMAS E. PETRI OF WISCONSIN ing for funding for the SR–91 corridor and the Account: Department of Housing and Urban IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Costa Mesa Freeway (SR–55) Interchange. Development, Economic Development Initia- The SR–91 is the only significant transpor- tive Wednesday, March 4, 2009 tation facility connecting Orange County and Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, today I am re- Riverside County. The facility is currently oper- Community Renaissance introducing the Troops to Teachers Improve- ating at full capacity during peak hours and is Address of Requesting Entity: 9065 Haven ment Act to improve opportunities for veterans critical for the movement of goods from the Avenue, Suite 100, Rancho Cucamonga, Cali- to transition into second careers in teaching. I ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to in- fornia am pleased to once again be joined in this ef- land destinations. The request is partly for ex- Funding Secured: $950,000 fort by Congresswoman DORIS MATSUI. I have amination of the technical feasibility of options Description of Request: Funding will be been a supporter of the Troops to Teachers to connect SR–91 Express Lanes with SR– used for the construction of affordable housing program since its authorization, and I am 241. A direct connection between high occu- communities. With this funding, National Com- proud of its success over the last decade. pancy toll (HOT) lanes on the SR–91 and the munity Renaissance will undertake one or Since 1994, this program has placed nearly SR–241 toll road will provide a new travel op- more large-scale neighborhood revitalization 10,000 veterans in our nation’s classrooms. tion for SR–91 commuters and allow for a projects, develop or acquire and preserve over Troops to Teachers is a unique program more balanced distribution of travel along the 10,000 additional apartments in at least 10 that provides retiring military with a $5,000 sti- highly congested SR–91 corridor. The request more states nationwide, and establish a best- pend to help cover the costs of teaching cer- is also for the preliminary engineering for fund- in-class non-profit Web portal, a free informa- tification in exchange for three years service in ing for the SR–91 corridor and the Costa tion resource that will become the go-to loca- a high-need school, which until recently was Mesa Freeway (SR–55) Interchange. Con- tion for updates and information assistance in defined as receiving grants under part A of structing this project will alleviate current and using affordable housing resources. National Title I. To further encourage participants to future congestion at the interchange of SR–91 Community Renaissance is one of the largest teach in schools with the greatest need, a and SR–55. nonprofit affordable housing development cor- $10,000 bonus is offered to those who agree Requesting Member: Congressman GARY porations in the United States. It manages to teach for three years in a school with 50 G. MILLER several business lines that contribute to the percent of students below the poverty level. Bill Number: H.R. 1105 development and preservation of high quality This structure has proven very effective in Account: Federal Highway Administration, affordable housing throughout the country, in- transitioning qualified retiring military per- Transportation, Community and System Pres- cluding development of new affordable hous- sonnel into second careers in teaching. In- ervation ing, preservation of existing affordable housing deed, Troops participants fill several critical

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.010 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E547 needs among educators: eighty-two percent would correct this error and restore the origi- the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home are male, over one-third ethnic minorities, and nal intent of the Troops to Teachers program. Improvement and Structural Alteration Pro- a majority bring an expertise in science and Our bill would ensure that veterans partici- gram. math to the classroom. In an increasingly pating in the Troops to Teachers program may Known as the HISA program, this important globalized economy, these valuable character- receive a $5,000 stipend for teaching for three VA benefit provides grants to seriously dis- istics provide a vital resource for schools years in any school that is in a district receiv- abled veterans who require home adaptations across the country. ing grants under part A of Title I. This legisla- to provide access to in-home medical care. However, this success is now in jeopardy tion would result in a 49% increase in the Typically, HISA grants are used for such due to a drafting error in the 2001 No Child number of eligible schools for the program. things as widening doors; putting in handrails Left Behind Act which has inadvertently re- This would mean that in my home state of or special lighting; making kitchens, bath- stricted the number of schools at which partici- Wisconsin, 94 percent of the schools in the rooms, windows, or electrical outlets and pants may fulfill their service. The applicable state would once again be eligible for the pro- switches more accessible; building ramps or definition for ‘‘high-need local education agen- gram. improving entrance paths and driveways. cies’’ for Troops to Teachers was inadvertently The legislation would retain the current cri- The benefit is paid from the medical care changed as it was included in the section of teria for troops to receive an additional bonus appropriation and is available to both veterans the legislation regarding other alternative pro- of $5,000 for teaching in a high need school, with service-connected and non-service con- grams that had a different definition. This defined as in a school district that has at least nected disabilities. A service-connected vet- stricter definition requires a higher threshold 10% or greater who come from families living eran can receive a HISA grant in addition to for ‘‘high-need,’’ requiring the school to have below the poverty level and a school where at other home adaptations grants available either 10,000 students or 20 percent of stu- least 50% of students are eligible for free or through the Veterans Benefits Administration. dents from families below the poverty level. reduced lunch or have a ‘‘high percentage’’ of Congress first authorized VA to establish However, the original Title I definition of high- students with disabilities. the HISA program as part of outpatient care need was also retained in the law in the sec- I urge my colleagues to join me and Con- for home health services in 1973. We have tion specifically detailing the Troops program. gresswoman MATSUI in supporting this suc- been engaged in the Global War on Terror for Essentially, Congress inadvertently created cessful program and restoring the opportunity nearly eight years and are seeing an increas- two conflicting definitions of ‘‘high-need’’ with to ‘‘serve again’’ to our nation’s veterans. ing number of servicemembers returning from regard to this program. f Iraq and Afghanistan utilizing VA health care. Early on, the Department of Education and It is especially important that this program re- the Troops to Teachers program recognized A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE mains relevant and can meet the needs of our this unintended change in law and worked to- 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE newest generation of veterans. gether to address it. From 2003–2005, while CHALFONT METHODIST CHURCH The current maximum amount of a HISA discussions were being held on how to rec- grant is $4,100 for service-connected veterans oncile this discrepancy, the program continued HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE and $1,200 for non-service connected vet- to operate under the original and intended def- OF OHIO erans. This amount was established by Con- inition. However, after the completion of a ne- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gress in 1992 and has not been raised in sev- gotiated rulemaking process in September enteen years. Wednesday, March 4, 2009 2005, the Department issued a regulation stat- My bill would increase the maximum amount ing that the new, stricter definition was not an Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: of the grants to $6,800 for service-connected error but congressional intent. As one of the Whereas, the Chalfont Methodist Church veterans and $2,000 for non-service con- leading supporters of this program during the was founded in 1808 and is celebrating its nected veterans. This recommended increase drafting of No Child Left Behind, I can assure 200th anniversary in Washington Township, reflects a three percent increase for each year my colleagues that this clearly was not the in- Ohio; and since 1992. It accounts for inflation and the intent of the supporters of the program. Whereas, the congregation was started by creased cost of home modifications. Madam Speaker, the unfortunate result of Mordecai Chalfant, a member of the society in I urge my colleagues to join me in cospon- this, aside from limiting the number of schools Methodism in 1808 but did not have a church soring this legislation. It would have a direct at which veterans may teach and honor their until 1811, and and immediate impact on improving health obligation of three-years service, is that it has Whereas, in June of 1970, when the East care and the quality of life for our disabled vet- disproportionately impacted western and rural Ohio Conference of the Methodist Church de- erans. states. In my home state of Wisconsin, the cided to close the parish due to dwindling f number of eligible school districts has been re- membership, the building was turned over to duced from approximately 420 to 13. Not sur- another congregation and scheduled to be de- SOLID WASTE GREENHOUSE GAS prisingly, participation in the program has fall- molished, the community came together to REDUCTION ACT en significantly since the implementation of the form the Chalfant Society, raising money to new definition. This decision, although under- purchase the building and have it named to HON. JAMES P. MORAN standable given the conflicting definitions con- the National Register of Historic Buildings; OF VIRGINIA tained in the law, is a disservice both to vet- now, therefore, be it IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES erans wishing to continue their service to our Resolved that along with the residents of Wednesday, March 4, 2009 nation as educators as well as children who the 18th Congressional District, I commend stand to benefit from their unique expertise. the Chalfont Methodist Church for two cen- Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Madam Speaker, The bottom line is that we are losing out on turies of dedication and service to the Wash- today I am introducing the ‘‘Solid Waste great teachers because they cannot accept ington township community and their deter- Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act,’’ legislation the certification stipend due to a lack of mination to save the church building and con- that will reduce our nation’s contribution to schools meeting the higher needs threshold in tinue the good works of the parish. global warming by addressing the methane their communities. The more we restrict oppor- f gas that escapes from municipal solid waste tunities for participation, the fewer teachers we landfills. will be able to bring into public education, and H.R. 1293, DISABLED VETERANS Hardly a week goes by without reports of the fewer teachers we will eventually be able HOME IMPROVEMENT AND new evidence that the world climate is chang- to attract to the schools with the greatest STRUCTURAL ALTERATION ing because of human activities that are put- need. Further, given the nation’s need for GRANT INCREASE ACT OF 2009 ting greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. more math and science teachers, we should Scientists predict that as the earth warms, be removing, not creating, restrictions that pre- HON. STEVE BUYER droughts and flooding will become more se- vent qualified teachers in these areas from OF INDIANA vere, threatening the world’s food supply. teaching in our nation’s classrooms. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Warmer ocean waters are producing expand- Madam Speaker, with Troops to Teachers, ing oxygen-depleted zones that are unable to the Department already has an established Wednesday, March 4, 2009 support sea life. Higher temperatures are program that is well-funded and successful. Mr. BUYER. Madam Speaker, I am pleased shrinking the Arctic ice cap, threatening coast- Rather than restricting it, we should be maxi- to introduce a bill to provide an increase in the al communities with rising sea levels and de- mizing this program’s potential. This legislation amount payable to disabled veterans under stroying the habitat that polar bears depend

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.011 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E548 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 on for survival. It is imperative that we look at Whereas, this is the team’s second con- made him unique. In a day of constantly all the options available to us for reducing secutive win in the Division III championship streaming news and information, Harvey made emissions of greenhouse gases. tournament and its third in five years, creating each of us feel like we were listening to a While most of us are familiar with the harm- a dynastic legacy of sportsmanship, skill, and local radio commentator, not a national pro- ful effects of CO2, methane is a greenhouse determination, and gram. gas that is even more harmful. The U.S. Envi- Whereas, Garaway’s Kevin Miller, finished America’s air waves are a little quieter ronmental Protection Agency reports that as the individual state champion for the sec- today. methane is over 20 times more effective at ond year in a row defeating challenger Nathan So I end today with the immortal words of trapping heat in the atmosphere than CO2. Tarter of Mogadore High School, 141 to 144; Mr. Harvey, ‘‘Good day, America.’’ Decomposing waste in landfills is the largest now, therefore, be it f source of U.S. anthropogenic methane emis- Resolved that along with the residents of sions, accounting for approximately 24 percent the 18th Congressional District, I commend INTRODUCTION OF A BILL TO ES- of these emissions. About 138 million tons of Kolt Andreas, Donny Beechy, Michael Dague, TABLISH THE POSITION OF PHY- municipal solid waste were discarded into Kevin Miller, Greg Moomaw, and Ryan Troyer SICIAN ASSISTANT SERVICES 1,754 landfills in 2006, according to EPA esti- for their excellent performance on the golf WITHIN THE OFFICE OF THE mates. Municipal and other landfills emitted course and congratulate them on their second UNDER SECRETARY OF VET- over 6 million metric tons of methane gas into win in as many years. The Garaway High ERANS AFFAIRS FOR HEALTH the atmosphere in 2005, the equivalent of 132 School Golf Team has shown exemplary million tons of CO2. sportsmanship and skill under the manage- HON. PHIL HARE The Solid Waste Greenhouse Gas Reduc- ment of Coaches Taggart and Felton, and OF ILLINOIS tion Act will create a new national program to should be proud of their achievement. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES address these emissions. By requiring the f owner or operator of a municipal solid waste Wednesday, March 4, 2009 landfill to collect a modest fee on each ton of INTRODUCTION OF BILLS TO HELP Mr. HARE. Madam Speaker, I am pleased waste disposed of, revenue will be made THE UNEMPLOYED to introduce a bill today that would elevate the available to support programs to reduce the current position of Physicians Assistant (PA) amount of waste entering landfills and to make HON. RON PAUL Advisor to a full-time Director of PA Services beneficial use of the methane generated by OF TEXAS in the VA Central Office. decomposing landfill waste. I would like to thank my good friend Rep- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES A fee of $5.00 per ton will produce close to resentative JERRY MORAN for leading this effort $700 million in revenue for this program. The Wednesday, March 4, 2009 with me, as well as Chairman FILNER and fees will be remitted to the local government Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, today I am in- Ranking Member BUYER and all of my col- having jurisdiction over the area in which the troducing two pieces of legislation to help the leagues who are original cosponsors of this landfill is located. The local government could increasing number of Americans who, be- legislation. I would also like to thank the Amer- use the fees itself to undertake greenhouse cause of the recession, have lost their jobs. ican Academy of Physician Assistants for their gas reduction projects that were determined The first bill, the Unemployed Tax Relief Act, tireless work on this bill. by EPA to be cost-effective. Alternatively, the makes a laid-off worker’s last paycheck tax There are currently about 1,600 PAs serving local government could provide grants, loans, free. in the Veterans’ Health Administration (VHA), or other financial assistance to other entities to The second bill, the Unemployment Assist- including many veterans, National Guard and undertake such projects, or could transfer the ance Act, allows unemployed people to make Reservists. PAs are a critical component of fees to the State for that purpose. Projects penalty-free withdrawals from accounts such the health care delivery system and are re- could include waste reduction measures or reas Roth IRAs and 401(k)s, to cover living ex- sponsible for roughly one-quarter of all primary cycling programs to reduce the amount of penses, health care, education, and job train- care patients seen in the VHA. methane generated by decomposition, landfill ing expenses. People who make these pen- The change from the current role of PA Ad- gas recovery, and waste recovery including alty-free withdrawals while unemployed will be visor, who works part time and is based in the energy generation. able to replenish their accounts once they field, to a full-time Director is necessary in Americans understand the enormous chal- have started new jobs. order to ensure that PAs are being appro- lenge we face as a nation in preventing global Madam Speaker, while we may disagree priately and effectively utilized throughout the warming and are asking how they can make about the best solutions to the economic crisis VHA. Right now, the PA Advisor is being left a difference. With the funding provided by this gripping the nation, I hope my colleagues will out of strategic planning discussions and long- legislation, local communities can identify and at least agree on these commonsense meas- term staffing initiatives, leaving PAs with no implement projects that will make a real con- ures and cosponsor the Unemployed Tax Re- voice and no advocate. tribution to reducing greenhouse gases. I urge lief Act and the Unemployment Assistance Additionally, there is a severe disparity my colleagues to support the ‘‘Solid Waste Act. throughout VHA facilities in how PAs are Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act.’’ f being utilized, what medical services they can f perform, and even whether facilities can hire PAUL HARVEY PAs. A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE Most importantly, the unnecessary restric- GARAWAY HIGH SCHOOL GOLF tions and widespread confusion are causing TEAM ON THEIR SECOND HON. ADRIAN SMITH the VA to miss an important opportunity to im- STRAIGHT DIVISION III STATE OF NEBRASKA prove the quality of health care for veterans. CHAMPIONSHIP IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES One of the biggest challenges facing current Wednesday, March 4, 2009 and future PAs in the VA system is their ex- HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. I rise today to re- clusion from any recruitment and retention ef- OF OHIO member Paul Harvey, one of our nation’s forts or benefits; the VA designates certain po- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES great storytellers and a fixture for anyone who sitions, such as physicians and nurses, as crit- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 spent time listening to radio while traveling ical occupations, which are given priority in Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: Nebraska’s highways. loan repayment and scholarship programs. Whereas, the Garaway High School Pirates Unfortunately, we lost one of our most dis- Since PAs are not designated as a critical oc- Golf team competed in the Ohio State Division tinctive voices on Saturday when Harvey cupation, they are excluded from these mon- III Boys Golf Championship Tournament; and passed away at the age of 90. ies, despite the fact that the VA has deter- Whereas, under the direction of head coach Since 1951, his signature ‘‘Stand by . . . for mined PAs and Nurse Practitioners are func- Ryan Taggart and assistant coach Mike news’’ alerted listeners to both stories which tionally interchangeable and equal in the work Felton, the team overcame a two stroke deficit would strike a chord for the common man, and they perform. to Lima Central Catholic after the first day of for commentary which would bring smiles to The underutilization, lack of recruitment and play to win the tournament by eight strokes faces and nods across our country. retention efforts, and pay disparity are all lead- with a combined score of 631 to Lima’s 639, Paul Harvey’s strength was his ability to tap ing PAs to not consider the VHA as a viable and into the humor, empathy and charm which employment option.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.013 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E549 PAs are very important for veterans living in tuna cannery remaining in the United States in Description: The Antelope Creek Flood rural areas, like those living in my congres- Santa Fe Springs, CA in my 38th Congres- Damage Reduction Project is a critical ele- sional district. Veterans that live in under- sional District. This cannery relies on imported ment of a flood control, transportation and served areas made the same sacrifices as tuna loins from Asia to manufacture canned community revitalization project known as the their urban and suburban counterparts. With a tuna in the U.S. Antelope Valley Project. The project is being disproportionate number of these brave men For 75 years, Congress and the administra- constructed in central Lincoln adjacent to the and women being cared for by PAs, it is crit- tion have implemented a $10 per loin ton (less University of Nebraska Lincoln main campus ical that we establish a system that will best than 1%) duty rate on tuna loins while having to improve flood control, transportation net- serve the needs of those veterans so as not a 12.5% duty rate on canned tuna. The dif- works and community well-being in the city’s to compromise their care. ference in these duty rates is to encourage downtown area. Considering the fact that nearly 40 percent companies like Bumble Bee to can tuna in the f of all VA PAs are projected to retire in the United States. Given our current economic sit- next five years, the VA is in danger of losing uation, it is of maximum importance to help A CALL FOR CONGRESSIONAL RE- its PA workforce unless some attention is paid maintain and create jobs in the United States. SPONSIBILITY AND TRANS- to this critical group. Bumble Bee imported tuna loins in plastic PARENCY My bill will allow the Director of PA Services bags sealed with metal clips and paid the to become an integral component within the lesser duty rate. At the direction of the Food HON. JERRY MORAN VA system, to proactively solve the many and Drug Administration in 2000, Bumble Bee OF KANSAS issues facing PAs, and give PAs a fair and stopped this practice and instead began pack- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES long overdue voice within the VA. aging loins with a heat seal to improve product Wednesday, March 4, 2009 quality and safety. Madam Speaker, this commonsense legisla- Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I tion promotes quality medical care for our vet- Upon inspection of the heat sealed bags in August 2006, the local Customs Service at the rise in opposition to a cost-of-living increase erans and I am proud to introduce it again this for Members of Congress. Across our country, Congress. This bill (H.R. 2790) passed the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach concluded that the new bags were airtight and im- the faltering economy is closing businesses House in the 110th Congress, but stalled in and leaving many without jobs. Our national the Senate. I look forward to working with my posed increased duties of 12.5%. This is con- tradictory to Congress’ intent and the historical debt is climbing to levels that future genera- Congressional colleagues to once again bring tions will be responsible for. I believe it is past this measure to the floor so our nation’s he- application of customs regulations that put a lower tariff rate on imported tuna loins to pro- time for Congress to be responsible. One ac- roes have access to the care they need and tion we can take is to cancel the automatic deserve. mote the domestic tuna canning industry. The fact that current imports of loins are in heat pay increase. f Without a direct yes-or-no vote on this provi- sealed plastic bags to more effectively prevent sion, we add to the impression that too many A PROCLAMATION HONORING THE contamination of frozen tuna loins should not people have of Congress. If Congress is to 200TH ANNIVERSARY OF change the underlying classification of the vote itself a raise in pay, it should be done in TUSCARAWAS COUNTY product. The bill I am introducing today will clarify the full view. This process should be reformed. Members previously long standing customs regulations HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE of Congress should not be able to receive an and allow tuna companies to continue to safe- OF OHIO automatic cost-of-living increase. Each of us ly import tuna loins at a lower duty rate to can IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES should be on the record with the citizens of in the U.S. The bill requires Customs to adopt our districts whether we believe an increase to Wednesday, March 4, 2009 a clear test to determine whether a container our own salary is justified. In this time of in- Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: is ‘‘airtight’’ that is based on universal stand- creased economic hardship, I am going on the Whereas, Tuscarawas County is celebrating ards, promotes health and safety, and com- record in firm opposition to this increase in the 200th anniversary of its organization; and ports with the intent of the tariff legislation. pay. Since I was not allowed to directly vote Whereas, Tuscarawas County has contrib- Under such a test, heat sealed loin bags yes or no, this forum has become my only re- uted greatly to the history and culture of east- would not be subject to the higher duty rate course. We will not have the transparent proc- ern Ohio and its residents should take pride in paid by canned tuna imports. ess promised to my fellow Americans until we the accomplishments of the county and look Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cease this automatic system. I only wish I forward to its future; and support this bill which will clarify Congress’ in- could do more to right this injustice to the Whereas, the residents of Tuscarawas tent to protect the domestic canning industry American taxpayer. We have a long way to go County will celebrate the county’s 200th anni- by maintaining a lower duty rate on imported in gaining the people’s trust. Ending this unfair versary with a Bicentennial Parade, fireworks tuna loins. practice would help. show, music by local school and adult per- f formers, and exhibits commemorating the his- f EARMARK DECLARATION tory and culture of Tuscarawas County; now, 2009 ACADEMY NOMINEES therefore, be it Resolved that along with the residents of HON. JEFF FORTENBERRY OF NEBRASKA HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN the 18th Congressional District, I commend OF NEW JERSEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the residents of Tuscarawas County, past and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES present, for their contribution to the state of Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Ohio over the last 200 years, congratulate Mr. FORTENBERRY. Madam Speaker, pur- them on the bicentennial of the county, and suant to the Republican Leadership standards Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Madam Speaker, wish them well in the festivities planned to on member requests, I am submitting the fol- every year more high school seniors from the commemorate this once in a lifetime event. lowing information regarding an earmark I re- 11th Congressional District trade in varsity f ceived as part of H.R. 1105, the FY09 Omni- jackets for Navy pea coats, Air Force flight suits, and Army brass buckles than most other INTRODUCTION OF DOMESTIC bus Appropriations Bill: Requesting Member: Congressman JEFF districts in the country. But this is nothing new. TUNA CANNING BILL FORTENBERRY Our area has repeatedly sent an above aver- Bill Number: H.R. 1105, FY09 Omnibus Ap- age contingent of its sons and daughters to HON. GRACE F. NAPOLITANO propriations Bill the nation’s military academies for decades. OF CALIFORNIA Account: Corps of Engineers—Construction This should not come as a surprise. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Project Name: Antelope Creek Flood Dam- educational excellence of our area’s schools is age Reduction Project well known and has long been a magnet for Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Amount: $4,620,000 families looking for the best environment in Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Madam Speaker, today Name and Address of Requesting Entity: which to raise their children. Our graduates I am introducing a bill to clarify existing tariff Lower Platte South Natural Resources District are skilled not only in mathematics, science, law and protect our domestic tuna canning in- located at 3125 Portia Street, Lincoln, Ne- and social studies, but also have solid back- dustry. Bumble Bee Foods operates the only braska 68521. grounds in sports, debate teams, and other

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.016 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E550 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 extracurricular activities. This diverse upbring- and notified applicants and my office of their Whereas, Martha Miller will soon celebrate ing has caught the eye of military academy final decision on admittance. her 100th birthday; and leaders, as many of them now know our towns As these highly motivated and talented Whereas, she has been able to drive a car and schools by name. young men and women go through the acad- and maintain a home through her 97th year; Since the 1830s, Members of Congress emy nominating process, never let us forget and have enjoyed meeting, talking with, and nomi- the sacrifice they are preparing to make. This Whereas, Martha Miller has volunteered as nating those superb young people to our mili- holds especially true at a time when our nation a poll worker through her 94th year; therefore, tary academies. But how did this process is fighting the war against terrorism. The cur- be it evolve? In 1843, when West Point was the rent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan serve as Resolved that along with her friends, family, sole academy, Congress ratified the nomi- constant reminder that wars are fought by the and the residents of the 18th Congressional nating process and became directly involved young. And, while our military missions are District, I congratulate Martha Miller on achiev- in the makeup of our military’s leadership. The both important and sometimes dangerous, it is ing her 100th birthday, and for her contribu- procedure, still used today, is a further check reassuring to know that we continue to put tions to her community and country. America’s best and brightest in command. and balance in our democracy. It was origi- f nally designed to weaken and divide political ACADEMY NOMINEES FOR 2009—11TH coloration in the officer corps, provide geo- CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT NEW JERSEY INTRODUCTION OF THE CAN DO graphical balance to our armed services, and AIR FORCE ACADEMY BILL to make the officer corps more resilient to the Nicholas A. Davis, Sparta, Sparta H.S. unfettered nepotism that had handicapped Eu- Joseph W. Geib, Oak Ridge, Jefferson H.S. HON. BOBBY L. RUSH Richard B. T. Margerison, Long Valley, ropean armies. OF ILLINOIS In 1854, Representative Gerritt Smith of West Morris Central H.S. Matthew D. Nafie, Basking Ridge, Ridge IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES New York added a new component to the H.S. Wednesday, March 4, 2009 academy nomination process, the academy MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY review board. This was the first time a Mem- Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, today I am in- ber of Congress appointed prominent citizens Ian M. Bland, Somerville, Somerville H.S. troducing the Communities in Action Neighbor- Dalton R. Harbula, Parsippany, Parsippany from his district to screen applicants and as- Hills H.S. hood and Opportunity bill, also known as the sist with the serious duty of nominating can- Yehudi Maldonado, Morristown, Morris- CAN DO bill. The Department of Justice re- didates for academy admission. Today, I am town H.S. ports that, on average, 45 people are shot and honored to continue this wise tradition in my Kevin M. McCormick, Lake Hopatcong, killed daily in America. Annually, there are service to the 11th Congressional District. Pope John XXIII H.S. 16,000–17,000 gun deaths in America. The Academy Review Board is composed of Ryan J. McCoy, Flanders, Roxbury H.S. The Communities in Action Neighborhood six local citizens, several of whom are distin- Andrew M. Seals, Long Valley, West Mor- Defense and Opportunity Act is a comprehen- ris Central H.S. guished veterans, who have shown exemplary sive, community-based approach designed to service to New Jersey, their communities, and MILITARY ACADEMY address the issue gun violence. The bill calls to the continued excellence of education in our Alex P. Filauro, Denville, Morristown for a four-pronged strategy in addressing gun area. Members of the board come from di- Beard. violence in our nation’s most crime-infested John G. French, Jr., Denville, Morris verse backgrounds and professions, but they Catholic H.S. neighborhoods, including aggressive law en- all share a common dedication that the best Steven T. Godine, Whippany, Hanover forcement, increased access to mental health qualified and motivated graduates attend our Park H.S. and psychological counseling, additional em- academies. And, as true for most volunteer Christopher A. Johnson, Chester, Home ployment training and job placement, and in- groups, their service goes largely unnoticed. Schooled. creased educational and recreational services I would like to recognize these men and Matthew D. Parsons, Green Pond, Morris for at-risk youth. women and thank them publicly for partici- Knolls H.S. Madam Speaker, the issue of gun violence Stephen E. Rogacki, North Caldwell, Seton pating in this important panel. Serving as Hall Prep. affects all Americans, white, black, Latino, Na- board member requires hard work and an ob- Luke T. Suczewski, Chatham, Delbarton tive American, and Asian. And gun violence jective mind. They have the responsibility of School. pervades in all of our communities: urban, interviewing over 50 outstanding high school Russell J. Tepper, Flanders, Mt. Olive H.S. suburban, and rural. This issue is not a black seniors every year in the academy review NAVAL ACADEMY or white issue, and it is not an urban or rural process. Kristen A. Asdal, Chester, West Morris issue. This is an American issue that we must The nomination process follows a general Mendham H.S. address with all of the resources we have at timetable. Interested high school seniors mail Zachary GP Beecher, Randolph, Randolph our disposal. personal information directly to the Military H.S. The research confirms that in order to effec- Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force William B. Brundage, New Vernon, Pingry. tively combat the causes of youth gun vio- Academy, and the Merchant Marine Academy. Douglas F. Chesnulovitch, Sparta, Sparta lence, there must be a holistic approach that H.S. Information includes academic achievement, Aaron Z. DeWitt, Califon, West Morris provides not only aggressive law enforcement, college entry test scores, and other relevant Mendham H.S. but also provides at-risk youth with construc- activities. At this time, they also inform my of- Robert F. Eckert, Parsippany, Parsippany tive alternatives to their dangerous lifestyles fice of their desire to be nominated. H.S. and gives them access to critical social serv- The academies then assess the applicants, Michael C. Jones, Basking Ridge, Ridge ices and programs. rank them based on the data supplied, and re- H.S. This bill is unique in that it brings together turn the files to my office with their notations. Jacob B. Levin, Madison, Madison H.S. the entire community to provide alternatives to Marykate B. Moore, Chatham, Villa Walsh In late November, our Academy Review Board Academy. youth by establishing partnerships between interviews all of the applicants over the course Jack A. Morado, West Caldwell, St. Bene- public and private agencies, businesses, com- of 2 days. They assess a student’s qualifica- dict’s Prep. munity-based nonprofits, churches, schools, tions and analyze character, desire to serve, and universities. There is an ’all hands on’ ap- f and other talents that may be hidden on proach in order to get all of the stakeholders paper. A PROCLAMATION CONGRATU- involved and provide a comprehensive and ef- This year the board interviewed 38 appli- LATING MARTHA MILLER ON fective strategy that families and communities cants. Nominations included ten to the Naval ACHIEVING HER 100TH BIRTHDAY can support and get behind. Academy, eight to the Military Academy, five Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to the Merchant Marine Academy, and five to HON. ZACHARY T. SPACE to support the CAN DO bill and help end the the Air Force Academy; the Coast Guard OF OHIO destruction that is tearing apart so many of Academy does not use the Congressional IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES our communities. Americans of conscious nomination process. The recommendations must come together to stop the senseless are then forwarded to the academies by Janu- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 death of ‘‘The Daily 45.’’ When will we say ary 31, where admissions staff reviewed files Mr. SPACE. Madam Speaker: ‘‘enough is enough, stop the killing!’’

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A04MR8.020 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E551 EARMARK DECLARATION Account: Transportation and Community Bill Number: H.R. 1105 and Safety Preservation Account: Federal Aviation Administration HON. ADRIAN SMITH Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Pan- Airport Improvement account OF NEBRASKA handle Area Development District Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Bur- Address of Requesting Entity: 1432 10th IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lington-Alamance County Regional Airport Street, Gering, Nebraska, USA Address of Requesting Entity: 3441 North Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Description of Request: Provide an earmark Aviation Drive, Burlington, North Carolina Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, of $475,000 for the Heartland Expressway 27215 pursuant to the House Republican standards Corridor Management Study. The funding Description of Request: Provide an earmark on earmarks, I am submitting the following in- would be used to prepare a corridor develop- of $855,000 for lengthening the existing run- formation regarding earmarks the Third Con- ment and management plan for the Heartland way to 6,400 feet. Specifically, funds will be gressional District will receive as part of the Expressway High Priority Corridor which will used for site preparation, along with paving Consolidated Appropriations for Fiscal Year update project cost estimates, schedule seg- and airfield strengthening of a 1,500-foot run- 2009. ment priorities, and quantify economic devel- way extension to 6,400 feet. The airport is lo- Requesting Member: Congressman ADRIAN opment benefits. The plan will include, at a cated in the heart of North Carolina’s premier SMITH minimum, a coordinated corridor development area of growth and development along the Bill Number: H.R. 1105 plan and schedule, including a timetable for Interstate 40/Interstate 85 corridor between Account: Small Business Administration, completion of all planning and development Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill and Greensboro- Salaries and Expenses activities, environmental reviews and permits, High Point-Winston-Salem. While completion Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University and construction of all segments; the results of of significant airport enhancement projects of Nebraska Kearney any environmental reviews and mitigation such as the installment of a High Intensity Address of Requesting Entity: 905 West plans; a gap analysis identifying areas that Runway Lighting System and the strength- 25th Street, Kearney, Nebraska, USA need environmental reviews; a complete and ening of the existing runway to support Description of Request: Provide an earmark comprehensive analysis of corridor costs and 120,000-pound aircraft have been successful of $100,000 for the University of Nebraska benefits; a finance plan, including any innova- in increasing corporate air traffic, safe oper- World Trade Center. The funding would be tive financing methods and a State-by-State ations of these aircraft are marginal on the air- used to provide market research to busi- breakdown of corridor finances; and, the iden- port’s existing 5,000-foot runway. This project nesses, facilitate participation in trade shows, tification of any impediments to the develop- received $1,000,000 in Fiscal Year 2004 and organize trade missions, conduct international ment and construction of the corridor, includ- $980,000 in Fiscal Year 2008. trade education for businesses, and offer busi- ing any environmental, social, political and Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- ness services that directly support trade for cli- economic objections. ARD COBLE ents. This program will be a one-stop resource f Bill Number: H.R. 1105 for businesses at various stages, from explor- Account: Federal Highway Administration ing opportunities to forming export and import RECOGNIZING NEWTON-CONOVER Transportation and Community Systems Pres- agreements with trade partners. The Small HIGH SCHOOL’S STATE FOOT- ervation account Business Administration has recognized that BALL TITLE Legal Name of Requesting Entity: North support for entrepreneurship is critical to eco- Carolina Department of Transportation nomic growth, as reflected in SBA’s guiding HON. PATRICK T. McHENRY Address of Requesting Entity: North Caro- principles of supporting entrepreneurs through OF NORTH CAROLINA lina Department of Transportation, 1542 Mail a network of local resource partners and em- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699 powering the spirit of entrepreneurship in Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Description of Request: Provide an earmark every community. This project will provide of $427,500 for the widening of SR 1306 and Mr. MCHENRY. Madam Speaker, I would specific support for growth-oriented small busi- SR 1363 (Mebane Street) from SR 1158 to like to recognize the Red Devils of Newton- nesses that need access to larger markets, a NC 54 in Burlington, North Carolina. Specifi- Conover High School for winning the North particular challenge faced in non-metropolitan cally, this project, TIP number U-3303, pro- Carolina state football championship. The Red areas. Because impact is closely tied to the poses to widen to multi-lanes SR 1306 and Devils, led by head coach Nick Bazzle, met geographic distribution of resources, this SR 1363 (Mebane Street) from SR 1158 the Tarboro Vikings in the University of North project will achieve federal interests by locat- (Huffman Mill Road) to NC 54 (Chapel Hill Carolina’s Kenan Stadium for the state 2A ing a resource partner in a critical region. Road) in Burlington, NC. The length of the title. Requesting Member: Congressman ADRIAN project is 2.4 miles. Right-of-way acquisition is Roughly 5,000 fans from Catawba County SMITH currently underway and construction is set to traveled to Chapel Hill to cheer on the Red Bill Number: H.R. 1105 begin in Fiscal Year 2009. This project has re- Devils to the school’s first state football cham- Account: Transportation and Community ceived no prior federal appropriations. pionship. The hard work and dedication that and Safety Preservation Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- these young men have put into the Newton- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Nebraska ARD COBLE Conover football program paid off with an im- Department of Roads Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Address of Requesting Entity: 1500 High- pressive 51–28 victory in the title game. Account: Federal Railroad Administration The enthusiastic support shown by the stu- way 2, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA Grade Crossings on Designated High Speed dents, Principal Kevin Campbell, and the com- Description of Request: Provide an earmark Rail Corridors account munity has made this football season a his- of $570,000 for a new interchange located on Legal Name of Requesting Entity: North toric one for Newton-Conover High School. I Interstate 80 at Cherry Avenue, which is lo- Carolina Department of Transportation commend them for their efforts—and a great cated approximately three miles east of Address of Requesting Entity: North Caro- victory! Kearney’s only interstate exit. This project will lina Department of Transportation, 1542 Mail provide efficient access from Interstate 80 to f Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699 the large industrial and commercial area on EARMARK DISCLOSURE Description of Request: Provide an earmark the northeaster part of the city and relieve traf- of $2,280,000 for the Southeast High Speed fic congestion along 2nd Avenue. Currently, HON. HOWARD COBLE Rail (SEHSR) Corridor Initiative from Greens- regional and national truck traffic serving these boro to Charlotte. The project is located on the OF NORTH CAROLINA businesses must pass through the center of rail corridor between Greensboro and Char- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kearney, causing delays and safety concerns. lotte. Specifically, funding will be used to re- A new interchange and connecting roadway Wednesday, March 4, 2009 store three double track sections, adding ca- will encourage economic development and in- Mr. COBLE. Madam Speaker, pursuant to pacity, improving freight and passenger serv- vestment in this part of the country at a time the House Republican standards on earmarks, ice reliability and bi-directional operation. when rural areas are experiencing difficult I am submitting the following information re- North Carolina has invested significant funds economic times. garding earmarks I received as part of H.R. to renovate or replace all passenger stations, Requesting Member: Congressman ADRIAN 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009. improve grade crossing safety, and reduce SMITH Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- travel time by approximately one hour to be Bill Number: H.R. 1105 ARD COBLE automobile-competitive. The corridor supports

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.013 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E552 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 some 60 freight and 6 passenger trains daily. way Patrol (NCSHP) Communications En- Description of Request: Provide an earmark The project will be developed and imple- hancement project. Specifically, funds will be of $250,000 for the ON TRACK—LEARN mented with the communities, Norfolk South- used to purchase and install a state-of-the-art MATH project. Specifically, funds will be used ern Railway, and the North Carolina Railroad communications console at Troop D Head- to develop a reform-based problem-solving Company. quarters in Greensboro, North Carolina. The mathematics enrichment program for use in Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- console to be replaced is outdated technology after school settings with elementary school- ARD COBLE and parts are no longer available. Parts must aged children. Undergraduate majors in ele- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 be scavenged from other abandoned consoles mentary education at UNCG and elementary Account: Federal Highway Administration of the same vintage (if they can be found) or school teachers in Guilford County will team Transportation and Community Systems Pres- fabricated. together to deliver the ON TRACK programs. ervation account Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- The ON TRACK program, together with cur- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of ARD COBLE rent efforts spearheaded by local and state High Point, North Carolina Bill Number: H.R. 1105 curriculum directors, will address several prob- Address of Requesting Entity: 211 South Account: COPS Law Enforcement Tech- lems related to mathematics instruction and Hamilton Street, High Point, North Carolina nology account achievement: the manner and methods used 27261 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alamance to teach mathematics, low student achieve- Description of Request: Provide an earmark County, North Carolina ment, teachers’ low expectations of students of $95,000 for the High Point Greenway Address of Requesting Entity: 124 West Elm in this area, and the upcoming reforms to the Project. The project encompasses a 3.8 mile Street, Graham, North Carolina 27253 NC mathematics curriculum in 2009. To foster greenway is located in High Point, North Caro- Description of Request: Provide an earmark student engagement and parent support for lina and funding will be used for completing of $500,000 for the 800 MHz Emergency this program, the program will provide fun, the remaining 1.1 miles to create walking, jog- Communications System Conversion project in stimulating activities that use hands-on experi- ging, bicycling and other recreational activities. Alamance County, North Carolina. Specifically, ences to reinforce conceptual learning. This The City of High Point is contributing $1.3 mil- funds will be used to convert its current VHF project has not received federal funds and is lion to this project, and needs federal assist- emergency communications system to an 800 lead by Rep. BRAD MILLER ance to complete the project. This project MHz emergency communications system be- Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- meets all of the requirements of FHWA’s tween January 1, 2009 and July 1, 2009. The ARD COBLE Transportation, Community, and System Pres- reason for converting to the 800 MHz emer- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 ervation program from which federal funds are gency communications system is based on Account: Health and Human Services Office being sought. two primary needs: safety and interoperability. of the Secretary account This area is rapidly urbanizing and opportu- Under the current VHF system, there are Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University nities to preserve and develop recreational re- areas within the county that are without cov- of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNC-G) sources in the future will be limited. The High erage which causes a safety issue for many of Address of Requesting Entity: 1601 MHRA Point Greenway provides high quality healthy our system users and health and/or safety Building, 1111 Spring Garden Street, Greens- living resources to the citizens of High Point issues for those in need of emergency serv- boro, North Carolina 27412 and Guilford County, as well as to tourists ices. There are times when the users are un- Description of Request: Provide an earmark from across the world who visit the City. Some able to communicate with anyone. Because of $238,000 for the North Carolina Council for of those tourists include people who visit High many of the users in Alamance County are on Health Literacy project. Specifically, dollars will Point for the International Furniture Market, different VHF systems, there is also a lack of be used to support the infrastructure for this which is the largest home furnishings trade interoperability between users. Currently, only initiative, which would address health literacy. show in the world, and is the largest biannual the City of Burlington, the Town of Elon, and This includes support training for public health event in the state to which an average the Town of Gibsonville Guilford/Greensboro’s and clinical health professionals; statewide 140,000 people from more than 100 countries 800 MHz system. readability service, media campaign; and tar- attend. Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- geted research and evaluation projects. This ARD COBLE ARD COBLE project has not received federal funds and is Bill Number: H.R. 1105 lead by Rep. BRAD MILLER. Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Department of Commerce, Inter- Account: Federal Transit Administration Bus national Trade Administration account and Bus Facilities account f Legal Name of Requesting Entity: North Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of HONORING PATRICIA ANNE McKEE Greensboro, North Carolina Carolina State University’s National Textile Address of Requesting Entity: Greensboro Center and the Textile/Clothing Technology 2 Transit Administration, 320 East Friendly Ave- Corporation [TC] HON. MARK H. SCHAUER nue, Greensboro, North Carolina 27401 Address of Requesting Entity: N.C. State OF MICHIGAN Description of Request: Provide an earmark University, Contracts and Grants, Administra- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tive Services Building III, Raleigh, NC 27695 of $1,140,000 for the Greensboro Mainte- Wednesday, March 4, 2009 nance/Operations/Administration Transit Facil- and 211 Gregson Drive, Cary, NC 27511 ity, Land Acquisition, Design and Construction. Description of Request: Provide an earmark Mr. SCHAUER. Madam Speaker, I am This project, NC TIP number TD-4915, would of $100,000 for the National Textile Center proud to honor today one of Michigan’s finest replace the existing facility that is too small and the Textile/Clothing Technology Corpora- postal service employees, Patricia Anne 2 and outdated to handle Greensboro’s growing tion [TC] . Specifically, funding will be used McKee of Albion, Michigan. Patricia is retiring fleet and operations. The facility will enhance for developing new materials; providing trained after 35 years of service with 29 years of su- the Greensboro Transit Authority’s service de- personnel, industrial partnerships and tech- pervisory and postmaster experience. She has livery efficiency and the quality of transit serv- nology transfer mechanisms; strengthening the been a postmaster for 25 years and a dedi- ices. No previous funds have been appro- nation’s textile research and education efforts; cated member of the Albion community for 22 priated for this project. Dollars will be used for and improving textile and apparel productions years. Patricia has served our state with honor land acquisition, design and construction. Rep. techniques. This request was almost made by and distinction and has shown extraordinary devotion to her community, being active and MEL WATT is the lead on this request. Reps. WATT, MYRICK, Hayes, SHULER, and Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- BUTTERFIELD. serving on many boards and committees as ARD COBLE Requesting Member: Congressman HOW- well as volunteering in her spare time. She Bill Number: H.R. 1105 ARD COBLE has done all of this as a loving mother to Account: COPS Law Enforcement Tech- Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Travis and a loving grandmother to Kemar. In nology account Account: Department of Education Elemen- her spare time she enjoys reading, traveling, Legal Name of Requesting Entity: North tary and Secondary Education (FIE) account playing the piano and spending time with fam- Carolina State Highway Patrol Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University ily, friends and special partner, Greg. Patricia Address of Requesting Entity: 4702 Mail of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNC-G) is a model of patriotism and well deserves our Service Center, Raleigh, North Carolina 27699 Address of Requesting Entity: 1601 MHRA respect and appreciation for her years of dedi- Description of Request: Provide an earmark Building, 1111 Spring Garden Street, Greens- cation to the postal service and the Albion of $350,000 for the North Carolina State High- boro, North Carolina 27412 Community.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.015 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E553 EARMARK DECLARATION hurricane activity and flooding. The State of niles in Miami-Dade County. A successful Florida is completing a state-wide collection of completion of this demonstration project will HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART data from airborne lasers to record detailed continue to reduce juvenile crime in Miami- OF FLORIDA elevation information. Combined with new Dade County and provide a valuable blueprint computational capabilities and overland flow for similar efforts across the country. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES algorithms, the proposed models would allow ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT Wednesday, March 4, 2009 Florida the best understanding of storm surge Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. effects and subsequent planning advantages. DIAZ-BALART Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican This new information will save lives and miti- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Leadership standards on earmarks, I am sub- gate property loss due to storm surge flooding. Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Oper- mitting the following regarding earmarks I re- Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN ations and Maintenance account ceived as part of the FY 2009 Omnibus. DIAZ-BALART Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Florida In- AGRICULTURE, FDA AND RELATED PROGRAMS Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus land Navigational District, Intracoastal Water- Account: Department of Justice, Juvenile Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN way Maintenance Justice account DIAZ-BALART Address of Requesting Entity: 1314 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: ARISE Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Marcinski Road, Jupiter, FL 33477 Foundation Account: Cooperative State Research Edu- Description of Request: I have secured Address of Requesting Entity: 4001 Edmund cation and Extension Service, Research and $4,019,000 for the maintenance dredging of Benson Boulevard, Miami, FL 33178 the Intracoastal Waterway in portions of St. Education Description of Request: I have secured Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University Johns, Duval, St. Lucie, Martin and Indian $300,000 to educate at-risk youth. Established River Counties. of Miami in 1986, ARISE has trained over 5,000 cer- Address of Requesting Entity: 4600 Ricken- Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN tified life skills instructors who have gone on to DIAZ-BALART backer Causeway, Miami, FL 33149 teach over 3,600,000 documented hours of Description of Request: I have secured Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus evidence-based life skills lessons. Specifically Account: Department of Energy, Science $2,494,000 for the Southeastern Climate Con- targeting high-risk youth, ARISE’s goal is to BER account sortium Application of Climate Forecasts in the stop the cycle of crime and violence while of- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Barry Uni- Southeastern United States. The Consortium fenders are young enough to learn life les- versity reduces economic risks and improves social sons—and ultimately, to reduce rates of recidi- Address of Requesting Entity: 11300 NE well-being by providing climate information vism, drug abuse and violence while building 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL 33161 that is integral to agricultural decision-making. skills to keep juveniles in school and out of Description of Request: I have secured The program seeks to develop flood fore- harm’s way. The ARISE Life Management $761,200 to fund Phase II of the Institute for casting methods to help farmers and pro- Skills Lessons provide both training and pro- Collaborative Sciences Research which is in- ducers plan for reducing risks of economic gram materials for teaching such lessons to tended to create a state-of-the-art research in- losses and environmental damage; develop incarcerated youth through interactive meth- frastructure through new laboratory and teach- partnerships and methods for incorporating cli- ods that help develop positive social and emo- ing space. The focus of the Institute will be to mate forecasts and other climate information tional skills needed to break the cycle of vio- prepare minority leaders for future work in into agricultural and water policy decisions; lence and crime that would otherwise doom healthcare professions while facilitating impor- and begin development of a prototype deci- many of today’s juvenile offenders. Further, it tant research that has a direct benefit on mi- sion support system for the application of cli- provides demonstrable outcome measures on nority populations in my South Florida commu- mate forecasts to water resource manage- the value of expanding this statistically proven, nity. Barry University is one of the largest ment, especially for agricultural water use. award-winning, professionally managed inter- independent universities in Florida. The uni- COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE vention program. versity boasts a student body that is more Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN than 60% minority and 42% are the first in DIAZ-BALART DIAZ-BALART their family to attend college. Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Account: Department of Justice, COPS Law Account: Department of Justice, Juvenile DIAZ-BALART Enforcement Technology account Justice account Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- Account: Office of Science, BER account Hialeah Dade County, FL Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Thom- Address of Requesting Entity: 501 Palm Av- Address of Requesting Entity: 111 NW 1st as University enue, Hialeah, FL 33010 Street, Suite 1032, Miami, FL 33128 Address of Requesting Entity: 16401 NW Description of Request: I have secured Description of Request: I have secured 37th Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054 $600,000 to enhance the City of Hialeah po- $200,000 to continue the partnership between Description of Request: I have secured lice department’s current radio system which Miami-Dade County and the Department of $570,200 for a continuation of the university’s does not allow for radio interoperability among Justice in administering the JAC program Minority Science Program and its commitment other law enforcement agencies, especially which has been recognized by the White to attract top minority students to pursue a ca- important during times of statewide response House Office of National Drug Control Policy reer in science and provide them with up-to- to natural disasters, domestic security inci- for its exemplary results in reducing the recidi- date laboratories, cutting edge curriculum, ex- dents or multi-agency jurisdictional public safe- vism rate among juveniles in Miami-Dade perienced professors and research opportunity efforts. The XPS radio system would bridge County. The Office of Justice Programs also ties. To this end, STU is constructing a state- the current gap and achieve interoperability strongly supports the JAC’s initiative to pro- of-the-art science facility, the Carnival Cruise with the State of Florida by replacing and up- vide an expanded data base, as it could offer Lines Science and Technology Building. The grading fixed end, portable and mobile radio valuable lessons to other large jurisdictions U–CORTE project will be located in the space communication equipment. across the U.S. The Juvenile Assessment vacated by the Department of Natural Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Center, a centralized processing, referral, and Sciences when it moves to the new building. DIAZ-BALART evaluation center for all juveniles arrested in It consists of establishing a university-commu- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Dade County, opened in late October 1997 nity resource center and programs to stimulate Account: Department of Commerce, NOAA, and has served over 100,000 arrested juve- and expand linkages between the university Operations, Research and Facilities account niles. The JAC allows representatives from and local community partners. This partner- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Florida law enforcement and social services to work ship will address disparities in access to crit- International University together to provide a complete range of serv- ical health, mental health and legal services in Address of Requesting Entity: University ices at the initial stages of the juvenile’s in- the low-income, minority communities of Miami Park Campus, 11200 SW 8th Street, Miami, volvement with the Juvenile Justice System. Gardens and Opa Locka, which are adjacent FL 33199 Over 5,000 juveniles have participated in the to St. Thomas University. Description of Request: I have secured Post-Arrest Diversion component of the project Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN $500,000 to develop the capability of real-time since 2000, with a success rate of 73% and a DIAZ-BALART forecasting for storm surges associated with sharply decreased recidivism rate among juve- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.017 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E554 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Con- funding source, and c) it allows nursing eligi- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus struction account ble older adults to remain at home. Account: Administration for Children and Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Families Social Services account Dade County, FL DIAZ-BALART Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Barry Uni- Address of Requesting Entity: 111 NW 1st Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus versity Street, Suite 1032, Miami, FL 33128 Account: Department of Health and Human Address of Requesting Entity: 11300 NE Description of Request: I have secured Services, HRSA account 2nd Avenue, Miami Shores, FL 33161 $478,000 for dredging of the Miami Harbor at Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami Description of Request: I have secured the Port of Miami which includes the design, Children’s Hospital $167,000 to support the Center for Community preparation of plans and specifications for bid- Address of Requesting Entity: 3100 SW Services Initiatives (CCSI) to enhance oppor- ding. The Chief of Engineers has rec- 62nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33155 tunities for external individuals and groups to ommended the deepening project to 50–52 Description of Request: I have secured participate in on-campus programs. The Cen- feet and Congress has authorized the project $285,000 to construct two new hybrid pediatric ter will serve as an educational resource to (Title I, Water Resources Development Act of cardiac suites under the Miami Children’s Hos- community organizations, including health pro- 2007). It is essential that the Planning, Engi- pital Congenital Heart Institute. These adjoin- viders. Barry service-learning opportunities neering, and Design (PED) begin in FY09. Ex- ing hybrid suites will feature: full cardiac oper- support local community clinics, helping to im- tended delay in the proposed dredging im- ating room capabilities including prove the quality and accessibility of health provements could be detrimental to the econ- cardiopulmonary bypass, dedicated pediatric care, including behavioral health care. omy of South Florida and the nation. Cargo cardiac anesthesia, state of the art hybrid car- Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN growth at the Port of Miami has been phe- diac surgical/interventional table, low dose dig- DIAZ-BALART nomenally strong. However, the industry ital flat panel imaging technology and oper- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus standard container ship is becoming larger, ating room ventilation and temperature control. Account: Department of Education, Elemen- and the Port cannot handle the newer ships The goal of CHI is to achieve 100% surviv- tary and Secondary Education (FIE) account Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- without deeper channels. In addition, the Port ability for children with congenital heart dis- Dade County Public Schools ease, and to improve their health status has been facing increasing competition from Address of Requesting Entity: 1450 NE 2nd throughout their lives. This mission is entirely foreign ports with existing significantly deeper Avenue, Miami, FL 33132 channels and faces lost business to foreign consistent with the goals of HRSA and HHS, Description of Request: I have secured ports (such as Freeport). and better medical interventions at the early $143,000 to develop a curriculum modeled on Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN stages of the disease lead to better quality of world-class standards, delivered by a high- DIAZ-BALART life for patients, shorter hospital stays, and quality teaching corps, resulting in an inter- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus fewer hospital admissions over their lifetime. nationally superior level of student achieve- Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Inves- Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN ment, and to establish an international edu- tigations R&D account DIAZ-BALART cation model of excellence. The membership Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus of the ECIC will include chief education offi- Dade County, FL Account: Department of Health and Human cers, national and international education re- Address of Requesting Entity: 111 NW 1st Services, HRSA account searchers, business leaders, and mayors of Street, Suite 1032, Miami, FL 33128 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Florida major urban cities from around the world, en- Description of Request: I have secured International University suring that work of the ECIC is informed by $239,000 for an ongoing feasibility study being Address of Requesting Entity: 11200 SW the context of the new world economy and conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- 8th Street, Miami, FL 33199 what will be required to succeed in it. neers and Miami-Dade County that examines Description of Request: I have secured the affect of canal and groundwater dis- $238,000 to establish a nanotechnology facility TRANSPORTATION/HUD charges on Biscayne Bay’s hydrodynamics, to develop biosensors capable of measuring Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN water quality and ecology. This study will help exposure to environmental and occupational DIAZ-BALART determine the historic freshwater flows to Bis- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus hazards for community safety. The proposed Account: Federal Transit Administration, cayne Bay and help to improve the eco- Center for Advanced Diagnostics Devices New Starts account system. would be able to design regional toxin moni- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- LABOR, HHS AND EDUCATION toring systems. In addition, the project allows Dade County, FL Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Florida International University’s College of Address of Requesting Entity: 111 NW 1st DIAZ-BALART Medicine to merge research and treatment Street, Suite 1032, Miami, FL 33128 Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus with real time toxin exposure detection. Description of Request: I have secured Account: Department of Health and Human Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN $20,000,000 for Phases II and III of the Miami- Services, HRSA account DIAZ-BALART Dade County Transit Authority’s Metrorail Or- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus ange Line Expansion. Primarily, in Phase II, Jewish Home and Hospital Hialeah PACE Account: SAMHSA Mental Health account Miami-Dade County Department of Transit is Center Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Spectrum in the final planning stage for the construction Address of Requesting Entity: 5200 NE 2nd Programs, Inc. of a 9.2-mile Metrorail extension along NW Avenue, Miami, FL 33138 Address of Requesting Entity: 11031 NE 6th 27th Avenue between the existing Dr. Martin Description of Request: I have secured Avenue, Miami, FL 33161 Luther King, Jr., Metrorail station and the $476,000 to develop a PACE Center in Hia- Description of Request: I have secured Broward County line. Phase III, the County’s leah, Florida. The Program of All-Inclusive $238,000 to demonstrate the effectuality of a East-West Corridor Rapid Transit Project pro- Care for the Elderly (PACE) is an innovative mental health and substance abuse treatment poses to extend Metrorail some 10–13 miles long-term care model that allows frail elders to continuum that integrates research, best prac- from the Miami Intermodal Center to Florida remain at home. The goal of PACE is to de- tices and emergent treatment methodologies International University and points west. As liver high quality, cost-effective care while across the spectrum of mental health, sub- fewer than 48% of the County’s residents live managing participants’ complex medical, func- stance abuse, and co-occurring disorders in a outside incorporated Miami, this Orange Line tional, and social needs. PACE integrates fi- continuous improvement model, making the expansion project will allow for more options nancing and delivery of acute and long-term processes and procedures of behavioral for commuting and travel around Miami-Dade care services. PACE enables older individuals health treatment more effective, the timelines County. who are eligible for nursing home care to con- to improved behavioral health shorter, and the Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN tinue living in the community with a full spec- gains more sustainable, substantially reducing DIAZ-BALART trum of medical, social and rehabilitative serv- the catastrophic personal, family, and societal Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus ices. The Program of all Inclusive Care for the consequences of historically disaggregated Account: Federal Highway Administration, Elderly (PACE) meets three important objec- treatment approaches. The funding will estab- TCSP account tives in providing long-term care services: a) it lish the Florida Center for Excellence in Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of allows long term care in operate in a managed Emerging Behavioral Health Strategies. Hialeah, FL care environment, b) it integrates Medicare Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN Address of Requesting Entity: 501 Palm Av- and Medicaid into a seamless and transparent DIAZ-BALART enue, Hialeah, FL 33010

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.017 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E555 Description of Request: I have secured Address of Requesting Entity: 8300 NW I oppose the automatic cost-of-living in- $570,000 to enable the city’s Streets & Engi- 53rd Street, Suite 100, Doral, FL 33166 crease for Members of Congress. Each of us neering Department to develop and implement Description of Request: I have secured should be on the record with our constituents the City’s 5-year Capital Improvement Pro- $237,500 for property acquisition, design, per- as to whether we believe an increase to our gram. The City of Hialeah has a rapidly aging mitting, and construction of roadway gaps and own salaries is justified. In this time of in- infrastructure with some areas facing more intersections identified to be in need of capac- creased economic hardship, I am going on the than 50 years since any work has been done ity improvements. This will help to alleviate record in firm opposition to this pay increase. in repairs/reconstruction. Areas have been roadway sections that are failing due to large Since I was not allowed to vote yes or no, this chosen throughout the city, based on roadway traffic volumes. In addition, there are several forum has become my only recourse. Until the need, drainage concerns, areas that have not roadway gaps where development has ex- procedural barriers are removed, we will not been reconstructed for over three decades panded the grid pattern of the City roadways have the transparent process that Americans and fill-in for sections that are still needed. surrounding small parcels that have not been deserve from their government. I will continue Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN developed. The completion of these small sec- to fight for fiscal responsibility at all levels of DIAZ-BALART tions of roadway would complete the City’s government spending. Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus grid pattern and provide additional options for f Account: Federal Highway Administration, increasing traffic to avoid already congested ANNA BELLE CLEMENT O’BRIEN TCSP account intersections. PRESENTED WITH 2009 HUMANI- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN TARIAN LEADERSHIP AWARD Sweetwater, FL DIAZ-BALART Address of Requesting Entity: 500 SW Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus 109th Avenue, Sweetwater, FL 33174 Account: Department of Housing and Urban HON. LINCOLN DAVIS Description of Request: I have secured Development, EDI account OF TENNESSEE $475,000 to repair, resurface and mill city Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sidewalks and streets. Many of the city’s side- Miami Springs, FL Wednesday, March 4, 2009 walks and streets have not been serviced in Address of Requesting Entity: 201 West- Mr. DAVIS of Tennessee. Madam Speaker, over 20 years due to the lack of funding for ward Drive, Miami Springs, FL 33166 I could not think of a more fitting person to re- improvements and maintenance. These dam- Description of Request: I have secured ceive the Frank G. Clement 2009 Humani- aged sidewalks and streets compromise cit- $237,500 to replace the municipal gymnasium tarian Leadership Award. Miss Anna Belle, a izen safety (several are unsafe for walking and in Miami Springs, Florida. The new community well known political figure in Tennessee, has bicycling); cause damage to property (i.e., center will be a focal point of Miami Springs, providing functions including theater, elderly long been an advocate for Tennessee’s chil- cars, bicycles); and give the city an undesir- dren and working families living in the Upper able aesthetic appearance. Sweetwater does continuing education and gymnasium functions. Cumberland region. have approximately $300,000 in matching Anna Belle Clement O’Brien was reared and funds for sidewalk and street-related projects. f schooled in the values and lessons of life west Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN OMNIBUS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, of Nashville in Dickson, Tennessee, before DIAZ-BALART 2009 embarking on a path that led her through the Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus Office of Price Administration, the Governor’s Account: Federal Transit Administration, SPEECH OF office, the Tennessee House of Representa- Buses and Bus Facilities account Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Miami- HON. J. RANDY FORBES tives and the Tennessee Senate. Known for her great storytelling abilities, Dade County, FL OF VIRGINIA wonderful sense of humor, quick wit, warm Address of Requesting Entity: 111 NW 1st IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES smile, it’s hard not to be comfortable around Street, Suite 1032, Miami, FL 33128 Wednesday, February 25, 2009 Description of Request: I have secured Miss Anna Belle. Over the years I have Mr. FORBES. Madam Speaker, I rise in op- learned much about what molded her into the $475,000 to purchase additional buses for position to a cost-of-living increase for Mem- Miami-Dade County. Federal bus and bus-re- role model and leader she has been. bers of Congress. We are currently faced with Armed with a great memory, you will quickly lated funds will enhance current levels of serv- difficult economic times and an expanding fed- learn through Miss Anna Belle’s stories that ice to meet the growing transportation de- eral deficit. Our economy is in a recession, un- she was raised in an environment where serv- mand—increasing bus routes and improving employment figures are on the rise, home val- ice to your neighbor is not only spoken, but service frequencies. The purchase of addi- ues are falling, and our national debt exceeds actually done. The majority of us lucky enough tional buses will have an important collective $10 trillion. Congress must not insulate itself to serve the public believe in the power of a impact on Miami-Dade County’s ability to de- from the crises at hand and I believe it is past good and responsive government. Miss Anna crease congestion and promote intermodal time for Congress to be responsible. The most Belle articulates those beliefs well by saying, linkages for passengers throughout the South immediate action we can take is to cancel the ‘‘Politics is a beautiful word to me.... I truly Florida region. automatic pay increase system currently in believe politics make handicap children walk Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN place for Members of Congress. and the mentally ill have a better life. Politics DIAZ-BALART To address this issue, I recently cospon- Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus builds roads and makes education available sored H.R. 156 in this 111th Congress, legis- Account: Federal Transit Administration, for all.’’ lation that would prevent Members from re- Buses and Bus Facilities account Those words couldn’t ring more true. Miss Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of ceiving an automatic cost of living adjustment Anna Belle, the first woman to ever serve as Pembroke Pines, FL in the future. The 27th Amendment to the a committee chair, brought common sense Address of Requesting Entity: 10100 Pines Constitution restricts the current Congress and a tireless work ethic to the job and a love Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 from altering its pay for 2009. I am dis- of the people she served. Description of Request: I have secured appointed that H.R. 156 was not brought to I read an interview she gave once in a local $475,000 to purchase three buses for the City the House floor for a vote to address this im- newspaper where she said, ‘‘I love this area of Pembroke Pines senior center for trans- portant issue. Rather, this issue was lumped we moved to over 40 years ago. No thought porting the elderly population. This program into a controversial 1100-plus page omnibus was given by either of us to run for public of- will help to alleviate congestion on already bill for political purposes. By not allowing an fice before we moved here. It wasn’t planned crowded city streets and ensure additional independent yes-or-no vote on this provision, this way, but it has been a most exciting life. safety of the elderly population who frequent we simply reinforce the impression that many I am grateful to the people in the community the senior center. important legislative measures are structured for allowing me to serve for all those years.’’ Requesting Member: Congressman LINCOLN to be political gamesmanship. If Congress is Well, Miss Anna Belle, I along with the count- DIAZ-BALART to vote itself a pay raise, it should be done in less Tennesseans you have helped over the Bill Number: FY 2009 Omnibus sunlight in the full view of the American public, years, thank you for your tireless leadership in Account: Federal Highway Administration, not through a quiet procedural motion hidden working to make sure future generations have TCSP account in the shadows. The people of Virginia de- a better quality of life. Congratulations for Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of serve accountability and transparency from being recognized for your hard work. It is well Doral, FL their elected officials. earned and most deserved.

VerDate Nov 24 2008 03:01 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K04MR8.017 E04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E556 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 4, 2009 INTRODUCTION OF THE ‘‘AFGHANI- tees, and committees of conference. Commission on Security and Cooperation STAN-PAKISTAN SECURITY AND This title requires all such committees in Europe PROSPERITY ENHANCEMENT to notify the Office of the Senate Daily To hold hearings to examine the impact ACT’’ Digest—designated by the Rules Com- of potential climate remediation poli- mittee—of the time, place, and purpose cies on carbon-intensive United States of the meetings, when scheduled, and industries and creating climate-friend- HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN ly economic and trade polices, focusing any cancellations or changes in the OF MARYLAND on how the financial crisis impacts the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES meetings as they occur. implementation of climate-friendly As an additional procedure along Wednesday, March 4, 2009 policies within the United States and with the computerization of this infor- among trading partners. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise mation, the Office of the Senate Daily SR–428A to introduce the Afghanistan-Pakistan Security Digest will prepare this information for 10:30 a.m. and Prosperity Enhancement Act. The legisla- printing in the Extensions of Remarks Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs tion is aimed at protecting our national security section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD To hold hearings to examine enhancing and that of our allies in the fight against Al- on Monday and Wednesday of each investor protection and the regulation Qaeda and the Taliban. I am pleased to be week. of securities markets. joined by Mr. HOEKSTRA, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. KIRK, Meetings scheduled for Thursday, SD–538 Mr. BURTON, Mr. SMITH (WA), Mr. CROWLEY, March 5, 2009 may be found in the Daily 2:30 p.m. Budget Mr. MORAN, Mr. ACKERMAN, Mr. WELCH and Digest of today’s RECORD. To hold hearings to examine the Presi- Ms. JACKSON-LEE. Senator CANTWELL has in- dent’s proposed budget for fiscal year troduced the companion measure in the Sen- MEETINGS SCHEDULED 2010. ate. MARCH 6 SD–608 This bill authorizes the President of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions 9:30 a.m. United States to designate Reconstruction Op- To hold hearings to examine the next Joint Economic Committee portunity Zones, ROZs, in Afghanistan and in generation of national service. To hold hearings to examine the employ- certain areas of Pakistan. Qualified busi- SD–430 nesses operating in those zones will gain ment situation for February 2009. SD–106 duty-free access to U.S. markets for des- MARCH 11 ignated products, thereby providing significant MARCH 9 10 a.m. employment opportunities where few currently 2:30 p.m. Budget exist. A ROZ program could go a long way to- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions To hold hearings to examine the Presi- ward bolstering economic development in this To hold hearings to examine preventing dent’s proposed budget request for fis- critical region of the world where extremists worker exploitation, focusing on pro- cal year 2009 for the Department of En- have tried to exploit the lack of economic op- tecting individuals with disabilities ergy. portunities to gain recruits for their radical and other vulnerable populations. SD–608 agenda. SD–430 Judiciary The 9/11 attacks against the United States 5 p.m. Constitution Subcommittee Finance To hold joint hearings with the House resulted from Al-Qaeda exploiting a safe To hold hearings to examine the nomina- haven in Taliban controlled Afghanistan. We Committee on the Judiciary Sub- tion of Ronald Kirk, of Texas, to be committee on the Constitution, Civil cannot allow this to happen again. These ex- United States Trade Representative, Rights, and Civil Liberties to examine tremists pose a threat to the people of Afghan- with the rank of Ambassador. S.J. Res. 7 and H.J. Res. 21, proposing istan, Pakistan and the United States. SD–215 an amendment to the Constitution of I commend President Obama for his focus the United States relative to the elec- MARCH 10 on the threat that this region poses to our nation of Senators. tional security. I am pleased that the President 9:30 a.m. SH–216 and Secretary Clinton have appointed a sea- Armed Services Homeland Security and Governmental Af- soned negotiator, Ambassador Holbrooke, as To hold hearings to examine current and fairs future threats to the national security To hold hearings to examine violent the Special Representative for Afghanistan of the United States; with the possi- Islamist extremism, focusing on al- and Pakistan. bility of a closed session to follow in Shabaab recruitment in American. U.S. and NATO forces are essential to con- SH–219. fronting the threat. However, the President has SH–216 SD–342 recognized that the threat cannot be neutral- Veterans’ Affairs Rules and Administration ized by military force alone. We need a com- To hold an oversight hearing to examine To hold hearings to examine voter reg- prehensive strategy to deal with these coun- budget for veterans programs for fiscal istration, focusing on assessing current year 2010. problems. tries. Such a plan must include programs to SR–301 expand the economic opportunities of the peo- SR–418 10 a.m. 2:30 p.m. ple in this region. Energy and Natural Resources Commerce, Science, and Transportation Towards that end, hopefully Congress will To hold hearings to examine proposed Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security revisit the foreign assistance bill that was in- legislation to provide for the conduct Subcommittee troduced by Senators BIDEN and LUGAR in the of an in-depth analysis of the impact of To hold hearings to examine Federal last Congress. The Reconstruction and Oppor- energy development and production on Aviation Administration reauthoriza- tunity Zone bill that we are introducing today the water resources of the United tion, focusing on NextGen and the ben- is another vital tool to bolster these econo- States. efits of modernization. mies. In my recent trip to Afghanistan and SD–366 SR–253 Finance Pakistan, the importance of this ROZ bill was To hold hearings to examine the Presi- MARCH 12 specifically raised by Presidents Zardari and dent’s fiscal year 2010 health care pro- 9:30 a.m. Karzai. I urge the House to pass this bill posals. quickly to assist these countries in achieving SD–215 Energy and Natural Resources economic sustainability. Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions To hold hearings to examine proposed legislation regarding siting of elec- f To hold hearings to examine rebuilding economic security, focusing on empow- tricity transmission lines, including in- SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS ering workers to restore the middle creased federal siting authority and re- class. gional transmission planning. Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, SD–366 agreed to by the Senate on February 4, SD–106 Judiciary Veterans’ Affairs 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- To hold hearings to examine patent re- To hold joint hearings to examine legis- tem for a computerized schedule of all form in the 111th Congress, focusing on lative presentations of veterans’ serv- meetings and hearings of Senate com- legislation and recent court decisions. ice organizations. mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- SD–226 SD–106

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HIGHLIGHTS House and Senate met in a Joint Meeting to receive the Right Honorable Gordon Brown, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Brit- ain and Northern Ireland. Senate Thune Modified Amendment No. 635, to provide Chamber Action funding for the Emergency Fund for Indian Safety Routine Proceedings, pages S2723–S2778 and Health, with an offset. Pages S2728, S2754 Measures Introduced: Five bills and two resolu- Murkowski Amendment No. 599, to modify a tions were introduced, as follows: S. 522–526, and provision relating to the repromulgation of final S. Res. 63–64. Pages S2766–67 rules by the Secretary of the Interior and the Sec- retary of Commerce. Page S2728 Measures Considered: Cochran (for Kyl) Amendment No. 634, to pro- Omnibus Appropriations Act: Senate continued hibit the expenditure of amounts made available consideration of H.R. 1105, making omnibus appro- under this Act in a contract with any company that priations for the fiscal year ending September 30, has a business presence in Iran’s energy sector. 2009, taking action on the following amendments Page S2761 proposed thereto: Pages S2728–62 Cochran (for Inhofe) Amendment No. 613, to pro- Rejected: vide that no funds may be made available to make By 38 yeas to 57 nays (Vote No. 77) Coburn any assessed contribution or voluntary payment of Amendment No. 596, to require the use of competi- the United States to the United Nations if the tive procedures to award contracts, grants, and coop- United Nations implements or imposes any taxation erative agreements funded under this Act. on any United States persons. Pages S2761–62 Pages S2734–35, S2748–51 Cochran (for Crapo (and others)) Amendment No. By 37 yeas to 58 nays (Vote No. 78) Coburn 638, to strike a provision relating to Federal Trade Amendment No. 608, to provide for the Emmett Commission authority over home mortgages. Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act from funds al- Pages S2761–62 ready provided for the Weed and Seed Program. A motion was entered to close further debate on Pages S2732–34, S2735–40, S2743–46, S2751–54 the bill and, in accordance with the provisions of By 34 yeas to 61 nays (Vote No. 79) Coburn Rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Senate, a Amendment No. 610, to prohibit funding for cer- vote on cloture will occur on Friday, March 6, 2009. tain congressional earmarks. Pages S2741, S2754–61 A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- By 43 yeas to 52 nays (Vote No. 80) Coburn viding for further consideration of the bill at ap- Modified Amendment No. 623, to prohibit taxpayer proximately 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, dollars from being earmarked to 14 clients of a lob- 2009. Page S2760 bying firm under Federal investigation for making Escort Committee—Agreement: A unanimous- campaign donations in exchange for political favors consent agreement was reached providing that the for the group’s clients. Pages S2741–43, S2746–48, S2761 President of the Senate be authorized to appoint a Pending: committee on the part of the Senate to join with a Wicker Modified Amendment No. 607, to require like committee on the part of the House of Rep- that amounts appropriated for the United Nations resentatives to escort the Honorable Gordon Brown, Population Fund are not used by organizations Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, into the which support coercive abortion or involuntary steri- House Chamber for the joint meeting on Wednes- lization. Pages S2728, S2754 day, March 4, 2009. Page S2728 D206

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:42 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04MR9.REC D04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D207 Messages from the President: Senate received the following messages from the President of the United Committee Meetings States: (Committees not listed did not meet) Transmitting, pursuant to law, a notice relative to the continuation of the national emergency with re- CHILDREN’S NUTRITION spect to the actions and policies of certain members Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Com- of the Government of Zimbabwe and other persons mittee concluded a hearing to examine improving to undermine Zimbabwe’s democratic processes or nutrition for America’s children in difficult economic institutions; which was referred to the Committee on times, after receiving testimony from Katie Wilson, Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. (PM–10) Onalaska School District, Onalaska, Wisconsin; Pages S2764–65 Susan Bartlett, Abt Associates Inc., Cambridge, Mas- Transmitting, pursuant to the provisions of sec- sachusetts; Connie K. Boldt, Knoxville Community tion 1512 of the Strom Thurmond National Defense Schools, Knoxville, Iowa; David M. Page, The John Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1999 (Public Law Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; Lucy 105–261), certification that the export of two envi- Nolan, End Hunger Connecticut!, Hartford; and ronmental chambers to be used to test automotive Kenneth Hecht, California Food Policy Advocates, parts is not detrimental to the U.S. space launch in- Oakland. dustry and will not measurably improve missile or BUDGET space launch capabilities of the People’s Republic of China; which was referred to the Committee on For- Committee on Finance: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the President’s proposed budget for fiscal eign Relations. (PM–11) Page S2765 year 2010, after receiving testimony from Timothy Nominations Received: Senate received the fol- F. Geithner, Secretary of the Treasury. lowing nominations: Ronald C. Sims, of Washington, to be Deputy IRAN Secretary of Department of Housing and Urban De- Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee met in velopment. closed session to receive a briefing to examine the John Berry, of the District of Columbia, to be Di- Iran status report, focusing on nuclear and political rector of the Office of Personnel Management for a issues, from national security briefers. term of four years. Page S2778 FINANCIAL GOVERNANCE SYSTEMIC RISK Messages from the House: Page S2765 AND BREAKDOWN Measures Referred: Page S2765 Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- fairs: Committee concluded a hearing to examine Measures Read the First Time: Pages S2765–S2778 systemic risk and breakdown of financial governance, Executive Communications: Pages S2765–66 after receiving testimony from Robert E. Litan, Additional Cosponsors: Page S2767 Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, Kansas City, Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Missouri; Damon A. Silvers, American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations Pages S2767–75 (AFL–CIO), Washington, D.C.; and Robert C. Amendments Submitted: Pages S2775–78 Pozen, MFS Investment Management, Boston, Mas- Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S2778 sachusetts. Privileges of the Floor: Page S2778 TAX HAVEN BANKS Record Votes: Four record votes were taken today. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- (Total—80) Pages S2750–51, S2753, S2760–61, S2761 fairs: Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations concluded a hearing to examine financial institutions Adjournment: Senate convened at 9:30 a.m. and which are located in offshore tax havens and which adjourned at 7:06 p.m., until 9:30 a.m. on Thurs- use practices that facilitate tax evasion and other day, March 5, 2009. (For Senate’s program, see the misconduct by United States clients, after receiving remarks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s testimony from John DiCicco, Acting Assistant At- Record on page S2778.) torney General, Tax Division, Department of Justice; Doug Shulman, Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Treasury; and Mark Branson, UBS Global Wealth Management and Swiss Bank, Zurich, Switzerland.

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NONPARTISAN COMMISSION OF INQUIRY HEALTH CARE REFORM Committee on the Judiciary: Committee concluded a Special Committee on Aging: Committee concluded a hearing to examine a nonpartisan commission of in- hearing to examine health reform in an aging Amer- quiry, after receiving testimony from Thomas R. ica, after receiving testimony from Thomas E. Ham- Pickering, Hills and Company, and David B. ilton, Center for Medicaid and State Operations, Rivkin, Jr., Baker Hostetler LLP, both of Wash- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Depart- ington, D.C.; Lee F. Gunn, Vice Admiral, USN ment of Health and Human Services; Karen E. Tim- (Ret.), Institute for Public Research, and Jeremy A. berlake, Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Rabkin, George Mason University School of Law, Madison; Holly Benson, Florida Agency for Health both of Arlington, Virginia; John J. Farmer, Jr., Care Administration, Tallahassee; Henry Claypool, Arseneault, Whipple, Farmer, Fassett, and Azzarello, Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute (PHI), New LLP, Chatham, New Jersey; and Frederick A.O. York, New York; Melanie Bella, Center for Health Schwarz, Jr., New York University School of Law Care Strategies, Hamilton, New Jersey; and Judith Brennan Center for Justice, New York. Feder, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. h House of Representatives Chamber by a committee comprised of Representa- Chamber Action tives Hoyer, Clyburn, Larson (CT), Becerra, DeLauro, Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 25 pub- Skelton, Berman, Neal (MA), McIntyre, Watson, lic bills, H.R. 1292–1318; and 6 resolutions, H.J. Chandler, Boehner, Cantor, Pence, McCotter, Res. 37; and H. Res. 206–210 were introduced. McMorris Rodgers, Carter, McCarthy (CA), Ros- Pages H2978–80 Lehtinen, King (NY), McHugh, and Petri; and Sen- Additional Cosponsors: Pages H2980–81 ators Reid, Durbin, Kerry, Dodd, Feingold, Boxer, Report Filed: A report was filed today as follows: Cardin, Webb, Shaheen, Kaufman, McConnell, Kyl, H. Res. 205, providing for further consideration Lugar, Corker, Isakson, Risch, Barrasso, and Wicker. of the bill (H.R. 1106) to prevent mortgage fore- Pages H2928–31 closures and enhance mortgage credit availability (H. Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules Rept. 111–23). Page H2978 and pass the following measures: Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she Recognizing Beverly Eckert’s service to the Na- appointed Representative Jackson-Lee (TX) to act as tion and particularly to the survivors and families Speaker Pro Tempore for today. Page H2927 of the September 11, 2001, attacks: H. Res. 201, Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the guest to recognize Beverly Eckert’s service to the Nation Chaplain, Chaplain Cherita Potter, National Chap- and particularly to the survivors and families of the lain, American Legion Auxiliary, Seaside, Oregon. September 11, 2001, attacks, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay Page H2927 vote of 419 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 94; Pages H2934–36, H2946 Recess: The House recessed at 10:05 a.m. for the purpose of receiving the Right Honorable Gordon Recognizing and honoring the employees of the Brown, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Department of Homeland Security on its sixth an- Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The House re- niversary for their continuous efforts to keep the convened at 12:45 p.m., and agreed that the pro- Nation safe: H. Res. 195, to recognize and honor ceedings had during the Joint Meeting be printed in the employees of the Department of Homeland Secu- the Record. Page H2928 rity on its sixth anniversary for their continuous ef- 2 Joint Meeting to receive the Right Honorable forts to keep the Nation safe, by a ⁄3 yea-and-nay Gordon Brown, Prime Minister of the United vote of 418 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland: 95; Pages H2936–38, H2946–47 The House and Senate met in a joint session to re- Raising awareness and promoting education on ceive the Right Honorable Gordon Brown, Prime the criminal justice system by establishing March Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain as ‘‘National Criminal Justice Month’’: H. Res. and Northern Ireland. He was escorted into the 45, to raise awareness and promote education on the

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:42 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04MR9.REC D04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST March 4, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D209 criminal justice system by establishing March as INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED ‘‘National Criminal Justice Month’’, by a 2⁄3 yea- AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS and-nay vote of 415 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Inte- Roll No. 96; and Pages H2940–42, H2947–48 rior, Environment and Related Agencies held a hear- Extending certain immigration programs: H.R. ing on EPA Oversight. Testimony was heard from 1127, to extend certain immigration programs. John Stephenson, Director, Natural Resources and Pages H2942–45 Environment, GAO; and Bill A. Roderick, Acting Suspension—Proceedings Postponed: The House Inspector General, EPA. debated the following measure under suspension of MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES the rules. Further proceedings were postponed: Committee on Energy and Commerce: Ordered reported Supporting the goals and ideals of Multiple Scle- the following bills: H.R. 1256: Family Smoking rosis Awareness Week: H. Con. Res. 14, to support Prevention and Tobacco Control Act; H.R. 1259, the goals and ideals of Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Dextromethorphan Distribution Act of 2009; H.R. Week. Pages H2938–40 1246, Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act Presidential Messages: Read a message from the of 2009; H.R. 1253, Health Insurance Restrictions President certifying that export of certain items to and Limitations Clarification Act of 2009; H.R. 20, the People’s Republic of China is not detrimental to as amended, Melanie Blocker Stokes Mom’s Oppor- the U.S. space launch industry—referred to the tunity to Access Health Education, Research, and Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered printed Support for Postpartum Depression Act; H.R. 479, (H. Rept. 111–21) and Page H2957 as amended, Wakefield Act; H.R. 577, as amended, Read a message from the President wherein he no- Vision Care for Kids Act of 2009; H.R. 756, Na- tified Congress of the continuation beyond March 6, tional Pain Care Policy Act of 2009; H.R. 914, Phy- 2009 of the national emergency with respect to the sician Workforce Enhancement Act of 2009; and actions and policies of certain members of the Gov- H.R. 307, Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis ernment of Zimbabwe and other persons to under- Act. mine Zimbabwe’s democratic processes or institutions referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs TARP OVERSIGHT and ordered printed (H. Rept. 111–22). Page H2957 Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on Fi- Quorum Calls—Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes de- nancial Institutions and Consumer Credit held a veloped during the proceedings of today and appear hearing entitled ‘‘TARP Oversight: Is TARP Work- on pages H2946, H2946–47, H2947–48. There ing for Main Street?’’ Testimony was heard from were no quorum calls. public witnesses. Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- IMMIGRATION IMMIGRANT LAW journed at 7:32 p.m. Committee on Homeland Security: Held hearing entitled ‘‘Examining 287(g): The Role of State and Local Law Committee Meetings Enforcement in Immigration Law.’’ Testimony was heard from William Riley, Acting Chairman, Office COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AND of State and Local Coordination, U.S. Immigration RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS and Customs Enforcement, Department of Homeland Security; Richard Stana, Director, Homeland Secu- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Com- rity and Justice Issues, GAO; from the following of- merce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies held a ficials of the State of Maryland: Chief J. Thomas hearing on the Place of NOAA Science in the Over- Manger, Montgomery County Police Department; all Science Enterprise. Testimony was heard from Sheriff Chuck Jenkins, Fairfax County and a public public witnesses. witness. ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AFGHANISTAN AND PAKISTAN: APPROPRIATIONS UNDERSTANDING A COMPLEX THREAT Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy ENVIRONMENT and Water Development and Related Agencies held Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- a hearing on Department of Energy: Project Manage- committee on National Security and Foreign Affairs ment Oversight. Testimony was heard from a public held a hearing on Afghanistan and Pakistan: Under- witness. standing a Complex Threat Environment. Testimony

VerDate Nov 24 2008 02:42 Mar 05, 2009 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D04MR9.REC D04MRPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST D210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 4, 2009 was heard from Paul R. Pillar, former National In- ing; H.R. 1088, Mandatory Veterans Specialist telligence Officer for the Near East and South Asia; Training Act of 2009; H.R. 1089, Veterans Employ- and public witnesses. ment Rights Realignment Act of 2009; and other HELPING FAMILIES SAVE THEIR HOMES draft legislation. Testimony was heard from Rep- ACT OF 2009 resentatives Doggett, Israel, Welch, and Alexander; Keith M. Wilson, Director, Office of Education Committee on Rules: Committee granted, by non- Service, Department of Veterans Affairs; Patrick H. record vote, a rule providing for further consider- Boulay, Chief, USERRA Unit, U.S. Office of Special ation of H.R. 1106, Helping Families Save Their Counsel; representatives of veterans organizations; Homes Act of 2009. The rule provides that amend- and public witnesses. ment number 1 printed in House report 111–21 to be offered by Representative John Conyers or his PRESIDENT’S FISCAL YEAR 2010 BUDGET designee shall be perfected by the modification OVERVIEW printed in the report of the Committee on Rules. Committee on Ways and Means: Concluded hearings on the President’s Fiscal Year 2010 Budget Overview. 21st CENTURY WATER PLANNING Testimony was heard from Pete R. Orszag, Director, Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on OMB. 21st Century Water Planning: the Importance of a PREPARING FOR COPENHAGEN: HOW Coordinated Federal Approach. Testimony was heard DEVELOPING COUNTRIES ARE FIGHTING from public witnesses. CLIMATE CHANGE CURRENT ECONOMY—STATE OF Select Committee on Energy Independence: Held a hearing RENEWABLE FUELS entitled ‘‘Preparing for Copenhagen: How Devel- Committee on Small Business: Held a hearing entitled oping Countries Are Fighting Climate Change.’’ Tes- ‘‘The State of the Renewable Fuels Industry in the timony was heard from public witnesses. Current Economy.’’ Testimony was heard from pub- f lic witnesses. COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR THURSDAY, WATER QUALITY INVESTMENT ACT OF MARCH 5, 2009 2009 (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- committee on Water Resources and Environment ap- Senate proved for full Committee action H.R. 1262 ‘‘Water Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: to Quality Investment Act of 2009.’’ hold hearings to examine American International Group, focusing on government intervention and implications for VA LEGISLATION future regulation, 10 a.m., SD–538. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Eco- Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: to hold hear- nomic Opportunity held a hearing on the following ings to examine draft legislative proposals on energy re- bills: H.R. 147, To amend the Internal Revenue search and development, 9:30 a.m., SH–216. Code of 1986 to allow taxpayers to designate a por- Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to examine United States strategy regarding Iran, 10:30 a.m., tion of their income tax payment to provide assist- SD–419. ance to homeless veterans; H.R. 228, To direct the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish a scholar- to hold hearings to examine transparency and account- ship program for students seeking a degree or certifi- ability for recovery and reinvestment spending, 10 a.m., cate in the areas of visual impairment and orienta- SD–342. tion and mobility; H.R. 297, Veterans Vocational Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Gov- Rehabilitation and Employment Subsistence Allow- ernment Information, Federal Services, and International ance Improvement Act of 2009; H.R. 466, Wound- Security, to hold hearings to examine how the Obama ed Veteran Job Security Act; H.R. 929, To amend Administration can achieve an accurate and cost-effective title 38, United States Code, to require the Secretary 2010 census, 2:30 p.m., SD–342. of Veterans Affairs to carry out a program of train- Committee on the Judiciary: business meeting to consider S. 386, to improve enforcement of mortgage fraud, secu- ing to provide eligible veterans with skills relevant rities fraud, financial institution fraud, and other frauds to the job market; H.R. 942, Veterans Self-Employ- related to federal assistance and relief programs, for the ment Act of 2009; H.R. 950, To amend chapter 33 recovery of funds lost to these frauds, S. 49, to help Fed- of title 38, United States Code, to increase edu- eral prosecutors and investigators combat public corrup- cational assistance for certain veterans pursuing a tion by strengthening and clarifying the law, S. 146, to program of education offered through distance learn- amend the Federal antitrust laws to provide expanded

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coverage and to eliminate exemptions from such laws that prises, hearing entitled ‘‘Perspectives on Systemic Risk,’’ are contrary to the public interest with respect to rail- 10 a.m., 2128 Rayburn. roads, S. 256, to enhance the ability to combat meth- Committee on Foreign Affairs, hearing on the Role for amphetamine, and the nominations of Elena Kagan, of Congress and the President in War: The Recommenda- Massachusetts, to be Solicitor General of the United tions of the National War Powers Commission, 10 a.m., States, Thomas John Perrelli, of Virginia, to be Associate 2172 Rayburn. Attorney General, and David S. Kris, of Maryland, to be Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on Man- an Assistant Attorney General, all of the Department of agement, Investigations and Oversight, hearing entitled Justice, 10 a.m., SD–226. ‘‘Putting People First: A Way Forward for the Homeland Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: to hold joint hearings to Security Workforce,’’ 10 a.m., 311 Cannon. examine the legislative presentations of veterans’ service Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Immigra- organizations, 9:30 a.m., SD–106. tion, Citizenship, Refugees, Border Security and Inter- Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to national Law, to adopt Rules of Procedure and Statement examine intelligence matters, receiving testimony from of Policy for Private Immigration bills; Adopt rules of officials of the intelligence community, 2:30 p.m., Procedure for Private Claims bills; Continue the Sub- SH–219. committee’s Policy on the Granting of Federal Charters; and to request Department of Homeland Security Depart- House mental Reports on the Beneficiaries of certain private Im- migration bills 10 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Com- Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Energy merce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, on Science and Mineral Resources, oversight hearing entitled ‘‘En- Education, 10 a.m., and on Where Are We Today: To- ergy Outlooks, and the Role of Federal Onshore and Off- day’s Assessment of ‘‘The Gathering Storm,’’ 2 p.m., shore Resources in Meeting Future Energy Demand,’’ 2 2359 Rayburn. p.m., 1324 Longworth. Subcommittee Defense, executive, on Global Mobility, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Sub- 10 a.m., H–140 Capitol. committee on Information Policy, Census, and National Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Re- Archives, hearing on Status of 2010 Census Operations, lated Programs, on The Role of Civilian and Military 10 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. Agencies in the Advancement of America’s Diplomatic Committee on Science and Technology, Subcommittee on and Development Objectives, 10 a.m., 2362A Rayburn. Space and Aeronautics, hearing on Cost Management Committee on Armed Services, hearing on combating pi- Issues in NASA’s Acquisitions and Programs, 10 a.m., racy on the high seas, 10 a.m., 2118 Rayburn. 2318 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, hearing Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, to mark on Can DOD Travelers Book a Trip? Defense Travel Sys- up the following bills: H.R. 915, FAA Reauthorization tem Update, 1 p.m., 2212 Rayburn. Act; and 1262, Water Quality Investment Act, 11 a.m., Committee on the Budget, hearing on Treasury Depart- 2167 Rayburn. ment Fiscal Year 2010 Budget, 10 a.m., 210 Cannon. Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Subcommittee Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on on Terrorism, Human Intelligence, Analysis and Counter- Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection, hearing on intelligence, executive briefing entitled ‘‘Hot Spots Up- Consumer Protection in the Used and Subprime Car Mar- date,’’ 1 p.m. H–304 Capitol. ket, 10 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Energy and Environment, hearing on Joint Meetings the role of offsets in climate legislation, 9:30 a.m., 2322 Joint Hearing: Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Rayburn. to hold joint hearings to examine the legislative presen- Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Capital tations of veterans’ service organizations, 9:30 a.m., Markets, Insurance and Government Sponsored Enter- SD–106.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 9:30 a.m., Thursday, March 5 10 a.m., Thursday, March 5

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Thursday: After the transaction of any Program for Thursday: Complete consideration of H.R. morning business (not to extend beyond 10:30 a.m.), Sen- 1106—Helping Families Save Their Homes Act of 2009 ate will continue consideration of H.R. 1105, Omnibus (Subject to a Rule). Appropriations Act.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue.

HOUSE Frelinghuysen, Rodney P., N.J., E549 Pelosi, Nancy, Calif., E539 Giffords, Gabrielle, Ariz., E540 Petri, Thomas E., Wisc., E546 Brady, Robert A., Pa., E543 Hare, Phil, Ill., E548 Rangel, Charles B., N.Y., E544 Buyer, Steve, Ind., E547 Lofgren, Zoe, Calif., E541 Rush, Bobby L., Ill., E550 Carter, John R., Tex., E540 Lynch, Stephen F., Mass., E544 Sanchez, Loretta, Calif., E542 Castle, Michael N., Del., E541 McHenry, Patrick T., N.C., E551 Coble, Howard, N.C., E551 Miller, Gary G., Calif., E544 Schauer, Mark H., Mich., E552 Davis, Lincoln, Tenn., E555 Moran, James P., Va., E547 Smith, Adrian, Nebr., E548, E551 Diaz-Balart, Lincoln, Fla., E553 Moran, Jerry, Kans., E549 Space, Zachary T., Ohio, E542, E543, E544, E546, E547, Duncan, John J., Jr., Tenn., E542 Napolitano, Grace F., Calif., E549 E548, E549, E550 Forbes, J. Randy, Va., E555 Pallone, Frank, Jr., N.J., E539 Van Hollen, Chris, Md., E556 Fortenberry, Jeff, Nebr., E549 Paul, Ron, Tex., E548

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