E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 110 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 153 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2007 No. 142 House of Representatives The House met at 12:30 p.m. and was tion, and that’s despite fits and starts now seen is a health care clinic in called to order by the Speaker pro tem- with government health and so forth. Johnson Bayou, where the community pore (Ms. HIRONO). It’s the individuals, local officials, fam- came together to put this in place to f ilies on the ground that made the dif- create access for health care. ference. You know, we all talk about how all DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO This storm also caused unprece- politics is local, but I would submit TEMPORE dented damage to the oil and gas indus- that all health care is local. If we don’t The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- try. Again, individuals working in have access to health care, it doesn’t fore the House the following commu- those companies got our oil and gas in- matter. It doesn’t matter what’s avail- nication from the Speaker: frastructure back up and running in able in Boston, Massachusetts, or in record time, so that we could fuel San Francisco and New York, because WASHINGTON, DC, if the folks down in Johnson Bayou September 24, 2007. America’s energy needs. I hereby appoint the Honorable MAZIE K. At the Federal level, funds have been don’t have access to health care, then HIRONO to act as Speaker pro tempore on appropriated for assistance, but they what good is it? What good is the great this day. have been clearly slow to arrive, be- advance in Boston or the wonderful , cause of bureaucracy. This has been an hospitals around the country if folks Speaker of the House of Representatives. ongoing battle that we in Congress can’t even enter into the health care f have had to fight with and local offi- system in their own community? Access is critically important, and MORNING-HOUR DEBATE cials have had to fight with as well. Two weeks ago, I was down there at there are many, many things, many The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Johnson Bayou, that little town where factors that affect access. I know this firsthand, as a cardiovascular surgeon ant to the order of the House of Janu- they struggled to get their school back. before coming to Congress, that many ary 4, 2007, the Chair will now recog- Actually, private funding allowed the rural communities don’t have access nize Members from lists submitted by school to come back before we could because there aren’t doctors in these the majority and minority leaders for even get Federal funds down there, be- rural communities, or there are no morning-hour debate. cause of the bureaucracy. That took 2 The Chair will alternate recognition clinics in these rural communities. years, but private funds allowed for the We have a severe shortage of physi- between the parties, with each party school to be rebuilt. It was one of the cians nationwide right now, and there limited to 30 minutes and each Mem- first schools to be rebuilt back in Lou- are many reasons we have shortages. I ber, other than the majority and mi- isiana. have asked for a GAO study in the past nority leaders and the minority whip, I was down there 2 weeks ago for a on this and tried to pass an amendment limited to 5 minutes. very special time. We had a ribbon-cut- in the higher education bill last year to The Chair recognizes the gentleman ting for a new health clinic in Johnson look at why we have these shortages. from Louisiana (Mr. BOUSTANY) for 5 Bayou down in Cameron Parish. This Clearly there are a number of factors, minutes. little town did not have a health care and we need to correct those defi- f clinic. It never had one. In fact, fami- ciencies to get a sufficient physician lies had to drive many, many miles on HEALTH CARE workforce to fill our rural commu- small roads or oftentimes had to rely nities and provide access. Mr. BOUSTANY. Madam Speaker, 2 on a ferry to cross a body of water to There are cost issues that limit ac- years ago, on September 24, Hurricane receive health care, and if that ferry cess, cost for families, where they can’t Rita smashed into Louisiana and was down, they were stranded. afford health insurance. There are Texas, making landfall first in my dis- But with the opening of this health costs, actually, reimbursement factors trict at Johnson Bayou in Cameron clinic, for the first time, families at for physicians which do not provide Parish, a small town in southwest Lou- Johnson Bayou now have access to adequate incentives for physicians and isiana. The storm was one of the worst health care. This was very special, be- nurses to be in rural communities. We ever to enter into the Gulf of Mexico, cause a family donated the land for the have a severe shortage of nurses. All causing $11 billion of damage to the clinic. A company actually put up health care is local, and we have to re- area. money, $2 million to build the clinic, member that if we are going to reform Hard-working individuals at the com- and an additional $1 million to fund its the health care system. munity level have had the greatest im- ongoing operations for the next 3 The United States has one of the best pact on our recovery and reconstruc- years. For the first time what we have health care systems in the world, and

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.

H10699

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.000 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10700 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 we spend significantly more on health As a priority, Lord, help us to pray for 1 minute and to revise and extend care than any other nation. Health with sincerity for lawmakers in this her remarks.) care costs have doubled between 1993 Congress and around the world. Their Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, you and 2004, growing to nearly $2 trillion decisions and their indifference has a know, there is quite a bit of disgust annually. ripple effect upon other nations. Guide with what is taking place in New York In addition to this, malpractice pre- them, that Your people everywhere City today with Ahmadinejad at Co- miums have continued to skyrocket. may live in security and flourish with lumbia University. There is disgust Physicians premiums rose 15 percent human ingenuity, both now and for- also with the United Nations. And between 2000 and 2002, and as much as ever. Amen. rightfully so. And we are hearing from 33 percent for some specialties. Many f our constituents about this. physicians are basically retiring early And then to top it off, the New York from their practices because of the se- THE JOURNAL Times, who for 2 weeks denied that vere costs imposed by malpractice pre- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The they gave special price breaks to miums. Chair has examined the Journal of the moveon.org for the liberal group’s ad Some of my Democratic colleagues last day’s proceedings and announces attacking General Petraeus, finally and some of the presidential hopefuls to the House his approval thereof. yesterday through their public editor have lately been advocating a govern- Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- or their ombudsman had to come clean ment-run universal health care pro- nal stands approved. with the truth. gram, saying that this is the only way Yes, indeed, moveon.org should have f we can have universal coverage. But I paid $142,000 for that ad, but somehow will tell you this, and I know this as a PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE it was cut in half. The reduced price physician, that universal coverage does The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the was a mistake, they said, and they ad- not equate to access. Coverage is one gentleman from Texas (Mr. POE) come mitted they had violated their own ad- thing, but if you don’t have the facili- forward and lead the House in the vertising policy of barring attacks of a ties, you don’t have the physicians, Pledge of Allegiance. personal nature. Two pretty glaring you don’t have the nurses, you don’t Mr. POE led the Pledge of Allegiance mistakes, don’t you think? have the clinic or you can’t afford in- as follows: The Times claims it is not a poster surance, or you can’t find access, it child for the liberal media, but in the I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the doesn’t matter about the coverage. It’s United States of America, and to the Repub- recent admission that sometimes re- access that’s important. lic for which it stands, one nation under God, porters had fabricated stories while Now, one of the things that Congress indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. management cut a deal to a liberal at- is looking at is the SCHIP bill. One of tack group and violated their own eth- f the things that SCHIP fails to recog- ics, well, as my grandmother would nize is that the measure fails to take HATEMONGER SPEAKS AT say, their little actions sure are speak- into account that children’s health, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY ing a lot louder than their words. Bless separated from the parents’ health cov- (Mr. POE asked and was given per- their little hearts. erage, is not going to be good enough. mission to address the House for 1 Again, it’s access. minute.) f I think we have to have three prin- Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, the Univer- ciples, information, choice and control sity of Hate has a new branch campus COMMUNICATION FROM THE in health care. In a subsequent speech, and it is called Columbia University. CLERK OF THE HOUSE I will get into more of those things. Madman, maniac, Mahmoud Ahma- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- f dinejad, is speaking today at Columbia. fore the House the following commu- RECESS The Iranian President believes in the nication from the Clerk of the House of murder of the Jewish people in . Representatives: The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- He is a hater of Americans. He is send- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair OFFICE OF THE CLERK, ing money, arms, and ammunition to HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, declares the House in recess until 2 Iraq that is used to kill American p.m. today. Washington, DC, September 21, 2007. troops. Not the kind of person that de- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 38 serves a U.S. audience. The Speaker, House of Representatives, minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- But Columbia doesn’t care. The Uni- Washington, DC. cess until 2 p.m. versity said that they would have even DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the f invited warmonger Hitler to speak on permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II their campus. of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- b 1400 tives, the Clerk received the following mes- But the university does have some sage from the Secretary of the Senate on AFTER RECESS people that they refuse to allow on September 21, 2007, at 11:25 a.m.: The recess having expired, the House campus. This is the same university That the Senate passed without amend- was called to order by the Speaker pro that, in 1969 during the Vietnam War ment H.R. 3580. tempore (Mr. KANJORSKI) at 2 p.m. and peacenik movement, banned the With best wishes, I am, ROTC from campus. And in spite of Sincerely, f current law and a Supreme Court rul- LORRAINE C. MILLER, PRAYER ing, still bans the ROTC. Clerk of the House. The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. Columbia University clearly shows a f Coughlin, offered the following prayer: pattern of being anti-American by pro- At worship this weekend, Lord, Your moting forums to warmongers and by people heard this admonition from the preventing the U.S. military ROTC ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER sacred scriptures: program on campus. Maybe the univer- PRO TEMPORE ‘‘First of all, I urge that petitions, sity should just relocate to Tehran. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiv- And in the meantime, the U.S. tax- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair ings be offered for all peoples, espe- payers have no business sending Amer- will postpone further proceedings cially for rulers and those in positions ican money to the University of Hate. today on motions to suspend the rules of authority; that we may be able to And that’s just the way it is. on which a recorded vote or the yeas lead undisturbed and tranquil lives, f and nays are ordered, or on which the with solid piety and true dignity.’’ vote is objected to under clause 6 of Lord, by Your grace, even in our AHMADINEJAD AND COLUMBIA rule XX. prayer, You lead us beyond self-con- (Mrs. BLACKBURN asked and was Record votes on postponed questions cern to embrace the needs of others. given permission to address the House will be taken after 6:30 p.m. today.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.003 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10701 NATIONAL HUNTING AND FISHING The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion 634, encouraging participation in DAY objection to the request of the gen- hunting and fishing activities and sup- Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I move to tleman from West Virginia? porting the goals and ideals of National suspend the rules and agree to the reso- There was no objection. Hunting and Fishing Day. lution (H. Res. 634) encouraging par- Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield This past weekend Americans all ticipation in hunting and fishing, and myself such time as I may consume. over our great Nation celebrated Na- House Resolution 634, as amended, supporting the goals and ideals of Na- tional Hunting and Fishing Day. recognizes the contributions that tional Hunting and Fishing Day and In 1971, Senator Thomas McIntyre of American sportsmen and -women make the efforts of hunters and fishermen to- New Hampshire and Representative in promoting wildlife conservation. ward the scientific management of Bob Sikes of introduced a joint The resolution calls on the President wildlife and conservation of the nat- resolution authorizing National Hunt- to issue a proclamation supporting Na- ural environment, as amended. ing and Fishing Day on the fourth Sat- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- tional Hunting and Fishing Day. urday of September. In 1972, President There are an estimated 42.5 million tion. Richard Nixon signed the first procla- The text of the resolution is as fol- Americans who hunt and fish, accord- mation recognizing National Hunting ing to the most recent survey con- lows: and Fishing Day. ducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife H. RES. 634 Thirty-five years later, thousands of Service. Aside from supporting efforts Whereas, since the beginning of the 20th events have taken place at hunting to protect our natural environment, clubs and sportsmen’s stores nation- century, hunters and fishermen of the United these men and women also contribute States have been among the most vocal sup- wide, bringing communities together in porters of the scientific management of wild- to our economy. They spent $75 billion a grass-roots effort to promote outdoor life and conservation of the natural environ- in 2006 on hunting and fishing activi- activities and conservation. ment; ties. Mr. Speaker, I believe that we, the Whereas President Theodore Roosevelt, I commend Congresswoman GILLI- United States Congress, should high- who was himself a hunter, fisherman, and BRAND from New York for introducing light these historic national pastimes conservationist, called throughout his Presi- this resolution, and I urge adoption of dency for laws to promote wildlife conserva- by recognizing the contributions that the resolution, as amended. hunters and fishermen have on Amer- tion and to provide lands for recreation; Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ica’s rich culture, and encouraging par- Whereas, in June 1971, Senator Thomas my time. McIntyre of New Hampshire and Representa- Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield ticipation in hunting and fishing as a tive Robert Sikes of Florida sponsored a myself such time as I may consume. way to promote family values, environ- joint resolution calling for the celebration of mental conservation, and stewardship ‘‘National Hunting and Fishing Day’’ on the First, let me thank and commend the gentleman from West Virginia for ex- of our national resources. fourth Saturday of every September; Each year, over 45 million Americans Whereas, in 2006, an estimated 42,500,000 in- peditiously bringing this bill to the dividuals in the United States participated floor. I rise in strong support of H. Res. take part in these traditions. Many of in hunting or fishing activities; 634, urging the establishment of a Na- these sportsmen and -women live in my Whereas, in 2006, hunters and fishermen tional Hunting and Fishing Day. district in upstate New York. When I made a significant contribution to the econ- Since the founding of our Republic hold a town hall meeting in the Hudson omy of the United States by spending nearly more than 230 years ago, hunting and Valley, constituents tell me about the $75,000,000,000 on hunting and fishing activi- fishing have been woven into the very economic impact that these sports ties; fabric of our cultural heritage. There is bring to our rural communities. I also Whereas hunters and fishermen recognize hear from them about the need for the importance of natural resources to the no question that sportsmen are among character, heritage, and future of the United the foremost supporters of sound wild- strong conservation policies so that States, and work to protect and conserve life management and the conservation they may continue the tradition of those resources; and of our natural resources. sportsmanship in their families. Whereas the fourth Saturday of September In fact, without the billions of dol- Many of the folks that I have had the would be an appropriate day to as celebrate lars that have been paid by sportsmen opportunity to speak with have lived National Hunting and Fishing Day: Now, in excise taxes and duck stamp fees, it all of their lives in New York’s rural therefore, be it is likely that President Theodore Roo- communities and view hunting and Resolved, That— fishing not only as a pastime, but also (1) it is the sense of the House of Rep- sevelt’s vision of a national wildlife resentatives that— refuge system would never have been a reflection of upstate New York’s his- (A) there should be established a day achieved. Today, that system is com- toric character. known as National Hunting and Fishing Day; prised of more than 96 million acres, One week from today, turkey season and and more than 90 percent of those Fed- will begin in upstate New York. Every (B) the President should issue a proclama- eral lands are open to the 42 million year my mother and brother are among tion calling on the people of the United Americans who hunt and fish. the very first in the woods when the States to observe such a day with appro- It is appropriate that we designate a season begins. My mother takes great priate programs and activities; and pride in her ability to shoot a turkey (2) the House of Representatives— National Hunting and Fishing Day and (A) encourages participation in hunting that we celebrate on October 9, the for our Thanksgiving dinner every and fishing; and 10th anniversary of the National Wild- year. (B) commends the contributions of hunters life Improvement Act of 1997. This his- I now have the honor to represent and fishermen toward the scientific manage- toric law, sponsored by the gentleman over a dozen hunting wildlife manage- ment of wildlife and conservation of the nat- from Alaska (Mr. YOUNG) and myself, ment areas in three of New York ural environment. has the fundamental purpose of work- State’s environmental conservation re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ing to ensure that the American people gions. Nearly 700,000 New Yorkers par- ant to the rule, the gentleman from have the finest refuge system in the ticipate in hunting and fishing each West Virginia (Mr. RAHALL) and the world and the ability to hunt and fish year and contribute extensively to our gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. on lands they largely purchased with local and national economy through li- SAXTON) each will control 20 minutes. their hard-earned dollars. It is achiev- censing, educational courses, and The Chair recognizes the gentleman ing that goal that I believe is very, equipment purchases. from West Virginia. very important. The promotion of hunting and fishing GENERAL LEAVE Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance activities coincides with environ- Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I ask of my time. mental stewardship. Hunters and fish- unanimous consent that all Members Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield ermen were among the first to call for may have 5 legislative days within such time as she may consume to the policies to protect our environment which to revise and extend their re- gentlelady from New York (Mrs. and, to this day, continue to advocate marks and include extraneous material GILLIBRAND). for land protection and preservation ef- on the bill, as amended, under consid- Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. Speaker, I forts to maintain our wildlife and envi- eration. rise today on behalf of House Resolu- ronment for our future generations.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.007 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10702 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 I want to take this opportunity to The Chair recognizes the gentleman natural setting. Today, Brookgreen Gardens is encourage all Americans to get into from West Virginia. a National Historic Landmark and contains the outdoors and enjoy all that God has GENERAL LEAVE more than 550 works from American artists in provided us. Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I ask what was the country’s first public sculpture I thank my colleagues for their sup- unanimous consent that all Members garden. port of this important resolution. may have 5 legislative days within Brookgreen Gardens also offers a nature Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield which to revise and extend their re- and historical preserve; it also includes a small back the balance of my time. marks and include extraneous material zoo that is accredited by American Zoo and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The on the measure under consideration. Aquarium Association, and a nature exhibition question is on the motion offered by The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there center. The natural exhibition center and zoo the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. objection to the request of the gen- exhibit educate visitors on the unique species RAHALL) that the House suspend the tleman from West Virginia? and issues of coastal South Carolina. rules and agree to the resolution, H. There was no objection. In conclusion, I would like to thank the rest Res. 634, as amended. Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, House of my colleagues from the South Carolina del- The question was taken; and (two- egation. They have shown unity in celebrating thirds being in the affirmative) the Concurrent Resolution 186, introduced by our colleague on the Natural Re- the 75th anniversary of Brookgreen Gardens rules were suspended and the resolu- by unanimously agreeing to be cosponsors of tion, as amended, was agreed to. sources Committee, Representative HENRY BROWN, honors the 75th anniver- this resolution. A motion to reconsider was laid on To honor the 1932 opening of Brookgreen the table. sary of Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina. Gardens to the public, I urge my colleagues to f When Brookgreen Gardens opened to support this bill. HONORING THE 75TH ANNIVER- the public in 1932, they were the first Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I have no SARY OF BROOKGREEN GAR- public sculpture gardens in the coun- further requests for time, and I yield DENS IN MURRELLS INLET, try. The gardens reflect the distin- back the balance of my time. Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I have no SOUTH CAROLINA guished career of Anna Hyatt Hun- further requests for time, and I yield Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I move to tington, a sculptor whose work back the balance of my time. spanned a period of 70 years. suspend the rules and agree to the con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The On October 5, 1992, the Secretary of current resolution (H. Con. Res. 186) question is on the motion offered by the Interior recognized the significance honoring the 75th anniversary of the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, of the site by designating Brookgreen RAHALL) that the House suspend the Gardens as a National Historic Land- South Carolina. rules and agree to the concurrent reso- The Clerk read the title of the con- mark based on the more than 550 works lution, H. Con. Res. 186. current resolution. of American artists displayed in the The question was taken; and (two- The text of the concurrent resolution sculpture portion of the gardens. is as follows: thirds being in the affirmative) the Mr. Speaker, we support House Con- rules were suspended and the concur- H. CON. RES. 186 current Resolution 186 and recommend rent resolution was agreed to. Whereas 2007 is the 75th year that its adoption by the House. A motion to reconsider was laid on Brookgreen Gardens is open to the public; I reserve the balance of my time. the table. Whereas in 1930 philanthropist Archer M. Mr. SAXTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield Huntington and his wife, sculptor Anna myself such time as I may consume. f Hyatt Huntington, purchased 9,100 acres of Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. RECOGNIZING ALL HUNTERS South Carolina land that stretched from the ACROSS THE UNITED STATES Waccamaw River to the Atlantic Ocean; Con. Res. 186. House Concurrent Reso- Whereas within the tract of such land were lution 186 recognizes Brookgreen Gar- FOR THEIR CONTINUED COMMIT- the remnants of four rice plantations, in- dens in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, MENT TO SAFETY cluding the Oaks, Springfield, Laurel Hill, in honor of the 75th anniversary of its Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I and Brookgreen; opening to the public. move to suspend the rules and agree to Whereas the Huntingtons created In 1931, Archer and Anna Hyatt Hun- the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. Brookgreen Gardens on a 300-acre parcel of tington founded Brookgreen Gardens to land with massive live oak trees which were 193) recognizing all hunters across the preserve the natural flora and fauna United States for their continued com- planted nearly two centuries earlier; and to display objects of art within Whereas in 1932 the Huntingtons opened mitment to safety. Brookgreen Gardens to the public and estab- that natural setting. The Clerk read the title of the con- lished it as both a nature preserve and a Today, Brookgreen Gardens is a Nat- current resolution. showcase for American figurative sculpture; ural Historic Landmark and contains The text of the concurrent resolution Whereas Brookgreen Gardens consists of more than 550 works from American is as follows: two main components: the Huntington artists in what was the country’s first H. CON. RES. 193 Sculpture Garden and the Lowcountry His- public sculpture garden. tory and Wildlife Preserve; Whereas in 2006 there were over 16,000,000 Whereas more than 550 works by hundreds b 1415 hunters in the United States of which only .0013 percent incurred an injury during the of American artists are displayed in the Hun- The Gardens also offer a nature and tington Sculpture Garden; past hunting season; historical preserve, small zoo, and a Whereas in 2006 this injury rate was lower Whereas the Lowcountry History and Wild- nature exhibition center. To honor the life Preserve is rich with evidence of the than many other forms of recreation; great rice plantations of the 1800s, contains 1932 opening of the Brookgreen Gardens Whereas there are 70,000 hunter education native and domestic animal exhibits, and is to the public, I urge my colleagues to instructors teaching hunter safety, ethics, the only zoo accredited by the Association of support this bill. and conservation to approximately 750,000 Zoos and Aquariums on the coast of either Additionally, I would like to recog- students successfully each year; Whereas State fish and game agencies North Carolina or South Carolina; and nize the strong efforts of Congressman Whereas Brookgreen Gardens is designated began offering hunter safety programs in HENRY BROWN for his persistence and 1949, and since then, more than 35,000,000 peo- a National Historic Landmark by the Na- diligent work in bringing this resolu- tional Park Service: Now, therefore, be it ple have been certified; Resolved by the House of Representatives (the tion to the floor. Whereas much of the success of hunter Senate concurring), That Congress honors Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- safety can be contributed to hunter edu- Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, South er, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 186 cation training and the role of responsible Carolina, on its 75th anniversary of being which honors the 75th anniversary of hunters in the field; open to the public. Brookgreen Gardens, one of the most beau- Whereas Congress commends Pennsylvania hunters for setting a new State safety record The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tiful places in coastal South Carolina. in 2006; ant to the rule, the gentleman from In 1931, Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington Whereas hunters continue year after year West Virginia (Mr. RAHALL) and the founded Brookgreen Gardens to preserve the to improve their safety record; and gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. native flora and fauna of coastal South Caro- Whereas hunters are the vital link in pre- SAXTON) each will control 20 minutes. lina and to display objects of art within that serving and maintaining the great natural

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.009 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10703 resources in the United States, including I want to thank hunters for their Chair’s prior announcement, further wild places: Now, therefore, be it commitment to safety, and honor those proceedings on this motion will be Resolved by the House of Representatives (the who teach hunting safety. Hunters postponed. Senate concurring), That the Congress— (1) recognizes all hunters across the United have shown that they can proudly rep- f resent the sport and put safety first, States for their continued commitment to EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF THE and that is something that I am proud safety; and HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (2) directs the Secretary of the Senate to to support. THAT A DAY OUGHT TO BE ES- transmit a copy of this resolution to the Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield TABLISHED TO BRING AWARE- Pennsylvania State Game Commissioner and myself such time as I may consume. NESS TO THE ISSUE OF MISSING the Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife House Concurrent Resolution 193 rec- PERSONS Service. ognizes all hunters for their continued The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- commitment to safety and to increase Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- awareness of the organizations and pro- move to suspend the rules and agree to linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- grams dedicated to hunting education the resolution (H. Res. 303) expressing woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) and safety activities. There are cur- the sense of the House of Representa- each will control 20 minutes. rently 16 million hunters in the U.S., of tives that a day ought to be established The Chair recognizes the gentleman which less than 1 percent incurred an to bring awareness to the issue of miss- from Illinois. injury during the last hunting season. ing persons. GENERAL LEAVE Continued education on hunting safety The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I will ensure lower injury rates for fu- tion. The text of the resolution is as fol- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- ture hunting seasons. The success of lows: bers may have 5 legislative days in these programs has allowed more than H. CON. RES. 303 which to revise and extend their re- 35 million hunters to obtain certifi- marks. cation. Fortunately, we can continue Whereas each year tens of thousands of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there people go missing in the United States; to see high safety records with respon- objection to the request of the gen- Whereas, on any given day, there are as sible and safe hunters who are well tleman from Illinois? many as 100,000 active missing persons cases There was no objection. educated on hunting safety. in the United States; Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support Whereas the Missing Persons File of the as a member of the House Committee House Concurrent Resolution 193. National Crime Information Center (NCIC) on Oversight and Government Reform, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of was implemented in 1975; my time. Whereas, in 2005, 109,531 persons were re- I’m pleased to join my colleagues in ported missing to law enforcement agencies the consideration of H. Con. Res. 193, a Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I might con- nationwide, of whom 11,868 were between the bill recognizing all hunters across the ages of 18 and 20; United States for their continued com- sume. Whereas section 204 of the PROTECT Act, mitment to safety. Mr. Speaker, in 2006 there were over known as Suzanne’s Law and passed by Con- H. Con. Res. 193, which has 91 cospon- 16 million hunters in the United gress on April 10, 2003, modifies section sors, was introduced by Representative States, of which only .0013 percent in- 3701(a) of the Crime Control Act of 1990 (42 CHRISTOPHER CARNEY on July 26, 2007. curred an injury during the past hunt- U.S.C. 5779(a)), so that agencies must enter H. Con. Res. 193 was reported from the ing season. To ensure and raise aware- records into the NCIC database for all miss- ness for hunter safety, there are 70,000 ing persons under the age of 21; Oversight Committee on September 20, Whereas Kristen’s Act (42 U.S.C. 14665), 2007 by a voice vote. hunter education instructors teaching hunter safety, ethics and conservation passed in 1999, has established grants for or- Mr. Speaker, I would like to yield to ganizations to, among other things, track Representative CARNEY as much time to approximately 750,000 students suc- missing persons and provide informational as he would consume as the sponsor of cessfully each year. services to families and the public; this resolution. Hunter safety can be contributed to Whereas, according to the NCIC, 48,639 Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise hunter education training and the role missing persons were located in 2005, an im- today in support of a bipartisan resolu- of responsible hunters in the field. This provement of 4.2 percent from the previous tion that honors our hunters for their helps to lower the incidence of hunting year; commitment to safety. I want to par- accidents, improve hunter behavior and Whereas many persons reported missing restore many species of wildlife abun- may be victims of Alzheimer’s disease or ticularly acknowledge the significant other health-related issues, or may be vic- bipartisan support from the members dance. tims of foul play; of the Pennsylvania delegation, a great Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- Whereas, regardless of age or cir- number of whom have signed on this league, Representative CHRISTOPHER cumstances, all missing persons have fami- bill. CARNEY, for introducing this legisla- lies who need support and guidance to endure This resolution honors our hunters tion, and urge swift passage of this bill. the days, months, or years they may spend for their commitment to safety and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of searching for their missing loved ones; and stewardship of the environment. Hunt- my time. Whereas it is important to applaud the ing is a beloved tradition. It is some- Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I would committed efforts of families, law enforce- ment agencies, and concerned citizens who thing I enjoyed both with my father, urge my colleagues to vote for this res- work to locate missing persons and to pre- when I was growing up, and now with olution, and yield back the balance of vent all forms of victimization: Now, there- my own children. my time. fore, be it But as any avid sportsman knows, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I Resolved, That it is the sense of the House hunters must have a commitment to yield back the balance of my time. of Representatives that— safety. We recognize that this sport re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (1) a day ought to be established to bring quires maturity and responsibility. In question is on the motion offered by awareness to the issue of missing persons; 2006, there were over 16 million hunters the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. and (2) the people of the United States should in the United States, of which only DAVIS) that the House suspend the be encouraged to— .0013 percent incurred an injury. This rules and agree to the concurrent reso- (A) observe the day with appropriate pro- low injury rate demonstrates a clear lution, H. Con. Res. 193. grams and activities; and commitment to safety. In fact, in 2006, The question was taken. (B) support worthy initiatives and in- hunters in Pennsylvania set a safety The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the creased efforts to locate missing persons. record, and for this I commend them. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- State fish and game agencies have in the affirmative, the ayes have it. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- been offering hunter safety programs Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- started in 1949, and since then more on that I demand the yeas and nays. woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) than 35 million people have been cer- The yeas and nays were ordered. each will control 20 minutes. tified. That is why I introduced this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The Chair recognizes the gentleman resolution. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the from Illinois.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.003 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10704 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 GENERAL LEAVE Government to improve our laws in I am pleased to join my colleague in Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I order to prevent future abductions. the consideration of H. Res. 303, a reso- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- In 1983, President Reagan established lution expressing the sense of the bers may have 5 legislative days in May 25 as the National Missing Chil- House of Representatives that a day which to revise and extend their re- dren’s Day, and last May Americans ought to be established to bring aware- marks. marked the 25th National Missing Chil- ness to the issue of missing persons. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there dren’s Day. This important day is set H. Res. 303, which has 58 cosponsors, objection to the request of the gen- aside to draw attention to children who was introduced by Representative tleman from Illinois? are still missing, whether they have KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND on April 17, 2007. There was no objection. been missing for a few days or for dec- H. Res. 303 was reported from the Over- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I ades. sight Committee on September 20, 2007, yield such time as she might consume Yet a day has not yet been set aside by voice vote. to the sponsor of this resolution, Rep- to remember those Americans who are Mr. Speaker, reports of missing per- resentative KIRSTEN GILLIBRAND. over the age of 18 and are missing from sons have increased sixfold in the past Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. Speaker, I their families. With over 100,000 Ameri- 25 years, from roughly 150,000 people in thank Representative DAVIS for his cans unaccounted for, mothers, fathers, 1980 to about 900,000 this year. The support of this resolution and for gen- sisters, brothers, sons, and daughters, a CourtTV’s Crime Library estimates erously yielding. day must be established to remind the that 2,300 people are reported missing I’ve introduced House Resolution 303 public of those missing and our coun- every day in America. in order to allow all Americans to try’s dedication to solving their cases I support establishing a day to bring honor and reflect on the number of and, hopefully, reuniting them with awareness to the issue of missing per- Americans who remain missing, and to families and loved ones. sons. We should all reflect to remember remember their families and loved ones In 2001, former Governor George the victims, their families, and local who hope and pray every day for their Pataki established April 6, Suzanne’s law enforcement and community vol- safe return. birthday, as the State’s Missing Per- unteers who help search for missing in- dividuals. As a matter of fact, Mr. b 1430 sons Day in New York. It is my hope that this date can also become the na- Speaker, even as we speak, in my city This issue is especially significant tional day of remembrance for all miss- in the area where I live, there is a for my constituents. On March 2, 1998, ing Americans. This day will allow young woman who has been missing now for several days, and it has created Suzanne Lyall, a 19-year-old sophomore Americans to appropriately remember a tremendous outpouring of empathy at SUNY Albany, was kidnapped and the victims, their families, and the ef- and sympathy on the part of the people never seen again. This crime cap- forts of local law enforcement and the for her parents and other family mem- tivated the country’s attention and has community. bers who are searching diligently, hop- left a permanent mark on the commu- Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues ing and praying that she will be found nity that I serve. Over 9 years later, will join me in unanimously approving her case remains unsolved. safely. this resolution and that the President So, Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- Tragically, similar situations occur will soon establish a day to bring league, Representative KIRSTEN every day in America. On any given awareness to the issue of missing per- day, there are as many as 100,000 active GILLIBRAND, for introducing this legis- sons. lation and urge its swift passage. missing-person cases in the United Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield States. In addition, missing-adult cases Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of myself such time as I may consume. my time. often go unreported in the media. Even House Resolution 303 establishes a Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I have though the first few days after a crime day to bring awareness to the issues no further requests for time, and I is committed are the most critical in surrounding missing persons. I con- yield back the balance of my time. solving a case, there can be significant gratulate the sponsor on this bill. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I delays in beginning the search for Each year tens of thousands of people yield back balance of my time. someone over the age of 18 who has go missing in the United States. Prob- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gone missing. Sadly, in New York there ably there isn’t a day goes by that question is on the motion offered by are over 3,500 missing-person cases, in- some newspaper doesn’t report either a the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. cluding nearly 1,400 cases involving child or adult that is missing. It is a DAVIS) that the House suspend the New Yorkers over the age of 18. national crisis affecting thousands of rules and agree to the resolution, H. Furthermore, the statistics show families. I think these families strug- Res. 303. that a disproportionate number of gle through the loss and pain of losing The question was taken; and (two- adults reported missing are college- their loved ones and often need support thirds being in the affirmative) the aged women. Currently in New York and guidance during the search for rules were suspended and the resolu- State, over two-thirds of the college- their missing friends or family mem- tion was agreed to. aged individuals reported missing are bers. A motion to reconsider was laid on female, and this group also makes up Through effective legislation, grants the table. approximately half of all missing have been provided to our organiza- f adults. It is important that the Federal tions tasked with tracking missing per- NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE Government partners with local law sons and provide much-needed support AWARENESS MONTH enforcement to protect young women services to families. Legislation has as they attend college or enter the also ensured that agencies are able to Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I workforce. keep updated databases on missing per- move to suspend the rules and agree to I am honored to represent Suzanne’s sons. It’s important that we take time the resolution (H. Res. 584) supporting parents, Doug and Mary, who are lead- to recognize and applaud the work of the goals and ideals of ‘‘National Life ers in New York and around the coun- law enforcement agencies, concerned Insurance Awareness Month’’. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- try in bringing attention to crimes in- citizens, and, of course, the families volving young adults. They have used tion. who unite together to find their loved The text of the resolution is as fol- their personal nightmare to assist ones and support prevention efforts. lows: other parents and families who have I urge the passage of this resolution. H. CON. RES. 584 had loved ones go missing. They found- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ed the Center for Hope, an organization my time. Whereas life insurance is an essential part with the mission of providing resources Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I of a sound financial plan; Whereas life insurance provides financial to educate, assist, and support families yield myself such time as I may con- security for families by helping surviving and friends to cope with the disappear- sume. members meet immediate and long-term fi- ance of a loved one. The center works As a member of the House Committee nancial obligations and objectives in the with the New York State and Federal on Oversight and Government Reform, event of a premature death in their family;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.016 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10705 Whereas approximately 68,000,000 United ance coverage needed to ensure a se- the National Association of Insurance States citizens lack the adequate level of life cure financial future for their loved and Financial Advisors, the American insurance coverage needed to ensure a secure ones. Council of Life Insurers, and a coali- financial future for their loved ones; I support the goals and ideals of Na- tion representing hundreds of leading Whereas life insurance products protect against the uncertainties of life by enabling tional Life Insurance Awareness Month life insurance providers and advocates individuals and families to manage the fi- because it will make people more have designated September 2007 as Life nancial risks of premature death, disability, aware of their insurance needs and mo- Insurance Awareness Month. and long-term care; tivate them to seek information about Our collective goal for this month is Whereas individuals, families, and busi- obtaining life insurance. to make consumers more aware of nesses can benefit from professional insur- So, Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- their life insurance needs, seek profes- ance and financial planning advice, including league, Representative JUDY BIGGERT, sional advice, and take the actions nec- an assessment of their life insurance needs; for introducing this legislation and essary to achieve financial security for and urge its swift passage. Whereas numerous groups supporting life their families. Many of my colleagues insurance have designated September 2007 as Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of on both the Financial Services and the ‘‘National Life Insurance Awareness Month’’ my time. Education and Workforce Committees as a means to encourage consumers to— Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield have been working very hard to in- (1) become more aware of their life insur- myself such time as I may consume. crease the level of financial literacy ance needs; I would like to thank my colleague and economic education in this Nation. (2) seek professional advice regarding life from Illinois, DANNY DAVIS, for man- Understanding how financial products insurance; and aging this resolution today. work and how they work to build fi- (3) take the actions necessary to achieve fi- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my nancial security are two important in- nancial security for their loved ones: Now, colleagues to support House Resolution therefore, be it gredients in a complete financial edu- Resolved, That the House of Representa- 584, which supports the goals and ideals cation. tives— of designating September 2007 as Na- It is my hope that recognizing Life (1) supports the goals and ideals of ‘‘Na- tional Life Insurance Awareness Insurance Awareness Month will moti- tional Life Insurance Awareness Month’’; Month. I also would like to thank my vate Americans to seek out informa- and friend and colleague, the gentleman tion about the benefits of life insurance (2) calls on the Federal Government, from Pennsylvania (Mr. KANJORSKI), so that if premature death of a loved States, localities, schools, nonprofit organi- for introducing this resolution with me one does occur, they will be spared the zations, businesses, and the citizens of the for the fourth year in a row and for his United States to observe the month with ap- economic hardships that often accom- propriate programs and activities. support on this important issue. Con- pany tragedy. gressman KANJORSKI serves with me The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- I ask my colleagues to join me and both on the Financial Services Com- support the goals and ideals of desig- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- mittee and the Financial and Eco- linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- nating September National Life Insur- nomic Literacy Caucus and has been an ance Awareness Month. woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) outstanding leader on the important each will control 20 minutes. Mr. Speaker, I have no further re- issue of financial security. quests for time, and I yield back the The Chair recognizes the gentleman I would also like to thank the gen- from Illinois. balance of my time. tleman from , Chairman Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I GENERAL LEAVE , and the gentleman yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I from Virginia, TOM DAVIS, for moving I will close and just simply reempha- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- this resolution through the Committee size the importance of this legislation. bers may have 5 legislative days in on Oversight and Government Reform. Again, I want to commend Representa- which to revise and extend their re- And, last, I would like to acknowl- tive BIGGERT and yourself, Mr. Speak- marks. edge and thank Senator BEN NELSON of er, for leading the way. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Nebraska and Senator SAXBY I think many people think of resolu- objection to the request of the gen- CHAMBLISS of for their con- tions like this as a simple something tleman from Illinois? tributions to this effort. They worked that has taken place; but I am re- There was no objection. with those of us on this side of the Cap- minded that in the community where I Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I itol to craft identical resolutions that live and work, oftentimes people will yield myself such time as I may con- garnered both bipartisan and bicameral die and not have the wherewithal with sume. support. It’s my hope that the Senate which to bury themselves. As a member of the House Committee will soon pass its version of the resolu- on Oversight and Government Reform, tion soon. b 1445 I am pleased to join my colleague in Mr. Speaker, life insurance too often Our young people will be killed and the consideration of H. Res. 584, a reso- is thought of only when it is too late. their families take up a collection to lution supporting the goals and ideals How many times have we heard friends get them buried. And so I think that of National Life Insurance Awareness or loved ones who are sadly reflecting this is a very important resolution. I Month. that the deceased had no life insurance commend both of you, once again, for H. Res. 584, which has 87 cosponsors, or had too little life insurance? Today, its introduction. was introduced by Representative JUDY only four in 10 adult Americans own an Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance BIGGERT on July 30, 2007. H. Res. 584 individual life insurance policy; and of my time. was reported from the Oversight Com- among those who do have life insur- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. mittee on September 20, 2007, by voice ance, the amount often is too small to KANJORSKI). The question is on the mo- vote. safeguard the financial future of their tion offered by the gentleman from Illi- Mr. Speaker, studies have found that loved ones. Because of insufficient cov- nois (Mr. DAVIS) that the House sus- when an unexpected death occurs, in- erage, family members often are forced pend the rules and agree to the resolu- sufficient life insurance coverage can to work extra jobs or longer hours, bor- tion, H. Res. 584. cause significant economic hardship row money, or move to less desirable The question was taken. for the loved ones left behind. The lack housing. In short, these outcomes are The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the of sufficient coverage drives many fam- only symptoms of the crisis of under- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being ily members of the deceased to work insurance that exists in our Nation in the affirmative, the ayes have it. additional jobs, borrow money, pre- today. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, maturely withdraw money from sav- Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 584 on that I demand the yeas and nays. ings and investment accounts, and in calls on the Nation to observe the The yeas and nays were ordered. many cases to move to less desirable month of September as Life Insurance The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- housing. It is estimated that 68 million Awareness Month. The Life and Health ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the Americans say they lack the life insur- Insurance Foundation for Education, Chair’s prior announcement, further

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.005 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10706 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 proceedings on this motion will be H. Res. 605, which has 108 cosponsors, Gold Star Mothers, Incorporated. The postponed. was introduced by Representative mission of the organization is to honor f PETER ROSKAM on August 1, 2007. the men and women who made the ulti- H. Res. 605 was reported from the mate sacrifice for their country and to SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND Oversight Committee on September 20, assist veterans with processing claims IDEALS OF GOLD STAR MOTH- 2007 by voice vote. made to the Department of Veterans ERS DAY Mr. Speaker, Gold Star Mothers Day Affairs. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I is an organization for mothers who The service provided by the Gold move to suspend the rules and agree to have lost a son or daughter in service Star Mothers does not end there. They the resolution (H. Res. 605) supporting to our country. In 1940, President inspire patriotism and love of country. the goals and ideals of Gold Star Moth- Franklin D. Roosevelt designated the They promote peace and goodwill ers Day. last Sunday in September as Gold Star through annual special events. The The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Mothers Day to recognize and com- Gold Star Mothers work in cooperation tion. memorate the tremendous sacrifice with all veterans organizations and The text of the resolution is as fol- these courageous mothers have en- lend their support giving many hours lows: dured on behalf of our Nation. This of volunteer work and personal service H. RES. 605 wonderful group of women have turned to veteran families. It is an organiza- Whereas the American Gold Star Mothers their personal tragedy into patriotism tion that inspires community service, have suffered the supreme sacrifice of moth- and public service. honor of country, and takes great pride erhood by losing a son or daughter who Today, numerous chapters of Gold in having our brave men and women served in the Armed Forces, and thus perpet- Star Mothers across our Nation offer serving in our Armed Forces. uate the memory of all whose lives are sac- important programs and services to I am proud to honor these brave rificed in war; Whereas the American Gold Star Mothers improve the lives of veterans and their women for their continued efforts and assist veterans of the Armed Forces and families. They assist veterans of the their tireless support of our Nation. their dependents in the presentation of Armed Forces and their dependents in With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back claims to the Department of Veterans Af- the presentation of claims to the De- the balance of my time. fairs and aid members of the Armed Forces partment of Veterans Affairs. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I who served and died or were wounded or in- I support the goals and ideals of Gold will close by simply stating that I have capacitated during hostilities; Star Mothers Day. And I have the ut- a very active, passionate and involved Whereas the services rendered to the most respect for mothers and fathers chapter of Gold Star Mothers in my United States by the mothers of America congressional district. And so on behalf have strengthened and inspired Americans that have sacrificed their sons and throughout the history of the United States; daughters for peace, freedom and the of them, and all of the Gold Star Moth- Whereas Americans honor themselves and security of our Nation. ers and Fathers throughout the coun- the mothers of America when they revere And so, Mr. Speaker, I commend my try, I would urge passage of this resolu- and emphasize the role of the home and the colleague, Representative PETER tion. family as the true foundations of the United ROSKAM, for introducing this legisla- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance States; tion and urge its swift passage. of my time. Whereas by doing so much for the home, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the American mother is a source of moral my time. question is on the motion offered by and spiritual guidance for the people of the the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. United States and thus acts as a positive Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield DAVIS) that the House suspend the force to promote good government and peace myself such time as I may consume. among all mankind; and I, too, applaud PETER ROSKAM of Illi- rules and agree to the resolution, H. Whereas September 30, 2007, is being recog- nois for his introduction of this resolu- Res. 605. nized as Gold Star Mothers Day: Now, there- tion. He had every intention of being The question was taken; and (two- fore, be it here, but unfortunately he missed his thirds being in the affirmative) the Resolved, That the House of Representa- plane, so he is not able to make it at rules were suspended and the resolu- tives— this time. tion was agreed to. (1) supports the goals and ideals of Gold During World War I, Grace Seibold’s A motion to reconsider was laid on Star Mothers Day; and the table. (2) requests that the President issue a son, George, served with the British proclamation calling upon the people of the Royal Flying Corps in France. While on f United States to observe such day with ap- combat duty, he regularly sent letters SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND propriate ceremonies and activities. home to his family in Washington, D.C. IDEALS OF SICKLE CELL DIS- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Around Christmas of 1918, the letters EASE AWARENESS MONTH ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- stopped and the Seibold family never Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- heard from him again. Because his move to suspend the rules and agree to woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) military unit was under British con- the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. each will control 20 minutes. trol, the U.S. had no information of his 210) supporting the goals and ideals of The Chair recognizes the gentleman whereabouts or safety. After months of Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month. from Illinois. waiting, they received notice of his The Clerk read the title of the con- death. GENERAL LEAVE current resolution. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I Throughout the war, Grace Seibold The text of the concurrent resolution ask unanimous consent that all Mem- had been spending her time visiting is as follows: with soldiers in military hospitals and bers may have 5 legislative days in H. CON. RES. 210 which to revise and extend their re- providing solace and assistance with their recuperation. After her own son’s Whereas Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited marks. blood disorder that is a major health prob- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there death, she met with fellow mothers of lem in the United States, primarily affecting objection to the request of the gen- soldiers who had been killed serving ; tleman from Illinois? their country. Whereas Sickle Cell Disease causes the There was no objection. The women began to share their grief rapid destruction of sickle cells, which re- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I and quickly found support for each sults in multiple medical complications, in- yield myself such time as I may con- other. Their uncommon bond brought cluding anemia, jaundice, gallstones, sume. them closer and helped them to heal. strokes, and restricted blood flow, damaging As a member of the House Committee The group also encouraged community tissue in the liver, spleen, and kidneys, and on Oversight and Government Reform, service by volunteering at local hos- death; Whereas Sickle Cell Disease causes epi- I am pleased to join my colleague in pitals for veterans. sodes of considerable pain in one’s arms, the consideration of H. Res. 605, a bill After years of careful planning, in legs, chest, and abdomen; supporting the goals and ideals of Gold June of 1928, 25 mothers joined in Whereas Sickle Cell Disease affects over Star Mothers Day. Washington, D.C. to form the American 70,000 Americans;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.021 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10707 Whereas approximately 1,000 babies are today that I ask for support of H. Con. ity of life for those who suffer from born with Sickle Cell Disease each year in Res 210. SCD. Because SCD affects so many peo- the United States, with the disease occurring Sickle cell disease is an inherited ple and research funding is critical to in approximately 1 in 300 newborn African blood disorder characterized by af- effectively treating and ultimately pre- American infants; Whereas more than 2,000,000 Americans fected red blood cells that mutate into venting the disease, we are grateful for have the sickle cell trait, and 1 in 12 African the shape of a crescent or sickle, and as organizations such as the Sickle Cell Americans carry the trait; such are unable to pass through small Disease Association of America that Whereas there is a 1 in 4 chance that a blood vessels. The horrific outcomes of continue to shine the light of hope for child born to parents who both have the this condition include considerable all of those affected. sickle cell trait will have the disease; pain in one’s arms, chest, legs and ab- Therefore, I ask my colleagues to Whereas the life expectancy of a person domen, anemia, gallstone, strokes, as support the designation of the month with Sickle Cell Disease is severely limited, well as damaging tissue in the liver, of September as National Sickle Cell with an average life span for an adult being 45 years; spleen, kidney, and death. Disease Awareness Month so that com- Whereas, though researchers have yet to This disease affects over 70,000 Amer- munities throughout the country will identify a cure for this painful disease, ad- icans and cripples over 1,000 newborn become aware of this disease and the vances in treating the associated complica- babies each year in the United States. need for additional research, effective tions have occurred; By supporting H. Con. Res 210, we ac- treatments and prevention programs Whereas researchers are hopeful that in knowledge the importance of raising that will ultimately lead to a cure. less than two decades, Sickle Cell Disease awareness for advance in sickle cell I urge my colleagues to support may join the ranks of chronic illnesses that, disease research, prevention treatment House Concurrent Resolution 210. when properly treated, do not interfere with and potential cure. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the activity, growth, or mental development of affected children; As the sponsor of H. Con. Res 210, I of my time. Whereas Congress recognizes the impor- would urge all of my colleagues to sup- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I tance of researching, preventing, and treat- port swift passage of this bill. want to thank the gentlewoman from ing Sickle Cell Disease by authorizing treat- I would also just note, Mr. Speaker, Illinois, Representative BIGGERT, for ment centers to provide medical interven- that the devastation of this disease on her support of this resolution. tion, education, and other services and by those who are affected by it is, indeed, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance permitting the Medicaid program to cover tremendous. I have had firsthand expe- of my time. some primary and secondary preventative rience with it by virtue of having run a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The medical strategies for children and adults question is on the motion offered by with Sickle Cell Disease; sickle cell community education Whereas the Sickle Cell Disease Associa- project for the University of Illinois in the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. tion of America, Inc. remains the preeminent Chicago and came in contact with DAVIS) that the House suspend the advocacy organization that serves the sickle many of the patients and their fami- rules and agree to the concurrent reso- cell community by focusing its efforts on lies; saw the pain and suffering first- lution, H. Con. Res. 210. public policy, research funding, patient serv- hand. And so I would urge passage of The question was taken. ices, public awareness, and education related this resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the to developing effective treatments and a Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being cure for Sickle Cell Disease; and my time. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Whereas the Sickle Cell Disease Associa- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, tion of America, Inc. has requested that the Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Congress designate September as Sickle Cell myself such time as I may consume. on that I demand the yeas and nays. Disease Awareness Month in order to edu- I congratulate Mr. DAVIS for bringing The yeas and nays were ordered. cate communities across the Nation about this important resolution to the floor. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- sickle cell and the need for research funding, This resolution seeks to bring atten- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the early detection methods, effective treat- tion to sickle cell disease and to sup- Chair’s prior announcement, further ments, and prevention programs: Now, there- port the designation of September as proceedings on this motion will be fore, be it Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month. postponed. Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Sickle cell disease is a deadly genetic Senate concurring), That the Congress sup- f blood disorder that strikes primarily ports the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Dis- SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND people of African descent. Those af- ease Awareness Month. IDEALS OF VETERANS OF FOR- fected by the disease most often appear The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- EIGN WARS DAY ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- to be healthy, but their lives are dis- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- turbed by sporadic and painful attacks move to suspend the rules and agree to woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) in their arms, legs, chest and abdomen. the resolution (H. Res. 663) supporting each will control 20 minutes. SCD also causes the rapid destruction The Chair recognizes the gentleman of sickle cells that results in multiple the goals and ideals of Veterans of For- from Illinois. medical complications, including ane- eign Wars Day. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- GENERAL LEAVE mia, jaundice, gallstones, strokes, and tion. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I restricted blood flow causing tissue damage, cardiovascular and organ dam- The text of the resolution is as fol- ask unanimous consent that all Mem- lows: bers may have 5 legislative days in age. H. RES. 663 which to revise and extend their re- Approximately 80,000 African Ameri- marks. cans suffer from sickle cell disease, and Whereas veterans of the Spanish-American The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there millions are affected worldwide. Statis- War and Philippine Insurrection, the Na- tics shockingly show that one in every tion’s first major foreign conflicts, faced objection to the request of the gen- hardships to include a complete lack of med- tleman from Illinois? 350 African American babies born in the United States has the disease, and ical care and pensions upon discharge from There was no objection. the service; Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I one in eight African American babies Whereas on September 29, 1899 the Amer- yield myself such time as I may con- carry the sickle cell trait. There is a ican Veterans of Foreign Service and in De- sume. one-in-four chance that a child born to cember 1899, the National Society of the Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support parents who both carry the sickle cell Army of the Philippines, were established to of H. Con. Res 210, which pays homage trait will have the disease. Life expect- advocate for the rights and benefits then de- to a tradition that both the Senate and ancy is limited, as an average life span nied to veterans of the Spanish-American House have honored for over two dec- for an adult with the disease is only War and Philippine Insurrection; about 45 years. Whereas, in subsequent years, membership ades. in these and other veterans organizations In 1983, Congress first recognized Sep- A universal cure, though, remains continued to grow; tember as the month to nationally elusive. However, early diagnosis Whereas these veterans organizations, rec- commemorate sickle cell disease through newborn screening and edu- ognizing their common goals and the impor- awareness. And it is in that same vein cation has improved survival and qual- tance of unity, merged to form the present-

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.009 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10708 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 day Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United bers have proudly carried on the orga- them, and they were left to care for them- States in 1914; nization’s mission of ensuring rights, selves. Whereas membership in the Veterans of remembering sacrifices, promoting pa- The founders of the VFW sought to remedy Foreign Wars continued to grow and reached triotism, performing community serv- that and provide support and encouragement nearly 200,000 in 1936 when the organization to all of our veterans who had served in for- received its Congressional Charter; ices, and advocating for a strong na- Whereas the 2.3 million members of the tional defense. The VFW has advocated eign wars. Their mission statement was Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxil- for our Nation’s veterans to include straightforward, ‘‘to honor the dead by helping iary remain committed to the organization’s helping establish the present-day De- the living.’’ Over time their mission expanded mission of ‘‘ensuring rights, remembering partment of Veterans Affairs, creating to ‘‘ensuring rights, remembering sacrifices, sacrifices, promoting patriotism, performing the Montgomery GI Bill of Rights, de- promoting patriotism, performing community community services, and advocating for a veloping the national cemetery system, services, and advocating for a strong national strong national defense’’; and assisting combat-wounded veterans defense.’’ Whereas the organization continues this in receiving compensation for their in- They have a rich history of advocacy. The honorable mission by effectively advocating VFW has been instrumental in establishing the for our Nation’s veterans, to include helping juries for service to our Nation. I sup- establish the present-day Department of Vet- port the goals and ideas of Veterans of Veterans Administration, creating a GI bill for erans Affairs, creating the Montgomery G.I. Foreign Wars Day, which honors our the 20th century, the development of the na- Bill, developing the national cemetery sys- veterans’ achievements and their serv- tional cemetery system, and the fight to en- tem, and assisting combat wounded veterans ice to our country. sure combat wounded veterans from all wars receive compensation for their injuries; and Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- receive proper compensation. Whereas the members of the Veterans of league, Representative JOHN KLINE, for In addition, they have been a powerful force Foreign Wars celebrate the organization’s es- introducing this legislation, and I urge behind the creation of the Vietnam, Korean tablishment and achievements on September War, World War II and Women in Military 29th while carrying on the vital mission of swift passage of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Service Memorials. their predecessors: Now, therefore, be it: Today, the organization has grown to more Resolved, That the House of Representa- my time. tives supports the goals and ideals of Vet- Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield than 2.3 million members worldwide and con- erans of Foreign Wars Day. myself such time as I may consume. tinues to advocate for all of our foreign vet- Mr. Speaker, the present-day Vet- erans. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- I applaud the work of these individuals. erans of Foreign Wars organization ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- Their continued commitment to each other and traces its origin to 1899 when two orga- linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- this great country of ours is truly inspirational. nizations were founded to achieve bene- woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) I am humbled by the work they have done for fits and recognition for United States each will control 20 minutes. our veterans and I am honored to be bringing veterans of the Spanish-American War. The Chair recognizes the gentleman this resolution to the floor. from Illinois. These veterans were committed to en- Today, as we stand to celebrate the estab- GENERAL LEAVE suring that their efforts in that con- lishment and achievements of an organization Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I flict were recognized, honored, and re- that was born of patriotism, the Veterans of ask unanimous consent that all Mem- spected by their government. Foreign Wars, I would ask each of my col- bers may have 5 legislative days in As the United States became in- leagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 663. which to revise and extend their re- volved in later foreign conflicts, the Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speaker, I rise marks. number of members of the VFW grew. today to recognize the outstanding work the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there The VFW received its congressional Members the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post objection to the request of the gen- charter in 1936. Currently, there are 2.3 696 in Owensboro, Kentucky continue to do to tleman from Illinois? million members of the VFW and the improve their community. Post 696 has exem- There was no objection. Ladies Auxiliary. Efforts by the VFW plified the mission of the VFW: Honor the Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I were instrumental in establishing a De- dead by helping the living. yield myself such time as I may con- partment of Veterans Affairs, the GI The Post has donated over $22,000 to local sume. Bill, the national cemetery system, and state organizations in the past year. As a Member of the House Committee and assisting combat-wounded veterans Beneficiaries of their generosity have included on Oversight and Government Reform, to receive compensation for their inju- local schools, the Boy Scouts, shelters, and I am pleased to join my colleague in ries. churches. Their generosity has also been ex- the consideration of H. Res. 663, a bill In recognition of their achievements tended to organizations such as the Wendell supporting the goals and ideals of Vet- in peacetime and the role of its mem- Foster Center, Shriners Hospitals, the Chil- erans of Foreign Wars Day. bers in wartime, I would ask that my dren’s Wish Foundation, the Disabled Amer- colleagues honor the VFW and declare b 1500 ican Veterans, and JEVCO. a Veterans of Foreign Wars Day. I urge Post 696 recently sponsored a going away H. Res. 663, which has 57 cosponsors, my colleagues to join in supporting picnic for the members of Ft. Campbell’s was introduced by Representative JOHN House Resolution 663. Alpha Troop and their families being deployed KLINE on September 19, 2007. H. Res. 663 Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance to Iraq. The City of Owensboro adopted Alpha was reported from the Oversight and of my time. Troop through the Americans Supporting Government Reform Committee on Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, Americans’ Adopt-a-Unit-Program. I thank the September 20, 2007, by a voice vote. we have no further requests for time. I members of the troop for their service and the Mr. Speaker, in 1899, veterans of the think there is no doubt there is no City of Owensboro for this commitment to Spanish-American War and the Phil- greater group of citizens in our country these brave soldiers. ippine Insurrection were upset by the than those who have served and fought The VFW Post 696 Honor/Color Guard has poor treatment they received following in foreign wars. I urge swift passage of been busy serving the community as well. their return from America’s first major this resolution. Since 2001, they have participated in over 400 overseas conflict. As a result, the Mr. KLINE of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, as a Veteran funerals and 50 community events in American Veterans of Foreign Service lifetime member of VFW Post 210 in Lakeville, Daviess County. and the National Society of the Army Minnesota, I rise today in strong support of H. I want to recognize the leaders of Post 696 of the Philippines were established to Res. 663, a resolution supporting the goals Commander Richard ‘‘Ike’’ Eisenmenger Jr., advocate for the rights and benefits and ideals of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Ladies Auxiliary President Marilu Goodsell, then denied to veterans of foreign con- The VFW traces its roots back to 1899, and Color/Honor Guard Commander Joseph flicts. when veterans of the Spanish-American War Hayden. They have worked tirelessly to serve In 1914, these veteran organizations, and the Philippine Insurrection founded local veterans and improve their community. recognizing their common goals and organizations to secure rights and benefits for It is my privilege to honor the members of the importance of unity, merged to their service. VFW Post 696 today, before the entire United form the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Before that time, many of our veterans States House of Representatives, for their VFW, of the United States. In the 108 would return home wounded or sick. There past service to our country and continued years since the VFW’s founding, mem- was no medical care or veterans’ pension for dedication to serving their community.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.010 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10709 Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I (3) These voyages were two of the most sig- (6) assist in the appropriate development of yield back the balance of my time. nificant passages in the European explo- heritage tourism and economic benefits to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ration and discovery of America, and in- the United States; and question is on the motion offered by cluded two of the earliest contacts in the (7) support and facilitate the related ef- forts of the Lake Champlain Basin Program the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. New World between Native Americans and Europeans. in the coordination of efforts to commemo- DAVIS) that the House suspend the (4) These explorations led to the establish- rate the voyage of Samuel de Champlain. rules and agree to the resolution, H. ment of Fort Orange, a Dutch (and later SEC. 102. COORDINATION. Res. 663. English) settlement of what is now the cap- The two commissions established under The question was taken. ital city of the State of New York, as well as this Act shall ensure coordination of their the establishment of French trading posts, The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the activities to achieve seamless and successful opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being military posts, and settlements as far south commemorations, and ensure consistency in the affirmative, the ayes have it. as Lake George. From these early establish- with the plans and programs of the com- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, ments came trade, commerce, cultural, and memorative commissions established by the on that I demand the yeas and nays. religious impact deep into the Mohawk Val- States of New York and Vermont. The yeas and nays were ordered. ley and as far west as Lake Erie. These set- tlements influenced the Nation’s history, TITLE II—CHAMPLAIN QUADRICENTEN- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- culture, law, commerce, and traditions of NIAL COMMEMORATION COMMISSION ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the liberty that extend to the present day, and Chair’s prior announcement, further SEC. 201. DEFINITIONS. that are constantly reflected in the position In this title: proceedings on this motion will be of the United States as the leader of the na- (1) COMMEMORATION.—The term ‘‘com- postponed. tions of the free world. memoration’’ means the commemoration of f (5) In 1807, Robert Fulton navigated the the 400th anniversary of Samuel de Cham- Hudson River from the city of New York to plain’s voyage. HUDSON-FULTON-CHAMPLAIN Albany in the steamboat CLERMONT, suc- (2) COMMISSION.—The term ‘‘Commission’’ QUADRICENTENNIAL COMMEMO- cessfully inaugurating steam navigation on a means the Champlain Quadricentennial RATION ACT OF 2007 commercial basis. This event is one of the Commemoration Commission established by Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I most important events in the history of section 202(a). navigation. It revolutionized waterborne move to suspend the rules and pass the (3) LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM.—The commerce on the great rivers of the United term ‘‘Lake Champlain Basin Program’’ bill (H.R. 1520) to establish the Cham- States, transformed naval warfare, and fos- plain Quadricentennial Commemora- means the partnership with Federal agencies tered international relations through trans- established by the States of New York and tion Commission, the Hudson-Fulton oceanic travel and trade. Vermont under section 120 of the Federal 400th Commemoration Commission, (6) In 1909, the Congress authorized a Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1270) and for other purposes. Champlain Tercentennial Commission and to implement the Lake Champlain manage- The Clerk read the title of the bill. supported its activities. The Congress recog- ment plan entitled ‘‘Opportunities for Ac- The text of the bill is as follows: nized the 350th anniversary by establishing a tion’’. similar commission to coordinate Federal H.R. 1520 (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ participation in the 1959 celebration of Hud- means the Secretary of the Interior. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- son’s and Champlain’s discoveries. (5) STATES.—The term ‘‘States’’— resentatives of the United States of America in (7) The National Park Service owns and op- (A) means the States of New York and Congress assembled, erates significant resources in New York re- Vermont; and SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. lated to the early history of the Nation and (B) includes agencies and other entities of (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as the Hudson River Valley. each such State. the ‘‘Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricen- (8) In 2000, Canada’s Province of Quebec es- tennial Commemoration Act of 2007’’. tablished a Quebec 400 Commission with a SEC. 202. CHAMPLAIN QUADRICENTENNIAL COM- MEMORATION COMMISSION. (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- budget in excess of $1,000,000, of which com- tents for this Act is as follows: memoration of the 1609 Champlain voyage (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- tablish a commission to be known as the Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. into the Lake Champlain region is a part. ‘‘Champlain Quadricentennial Commemora- TITLE I—FINDINGS AND PURPOSE (9) In 2002, the State of New York estab- lished a Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Commis- tion Commission’’. Sec. 101. Findings and purpose. sion. (b) MEMBERSHIP.— Sec. 102. Coordination. (10) In 2003, the State of Vermont estab- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall be TITLE II—CHAMPLAIN QUADRICENTEN- lished a Lake Champlain Quadricentennial composed of 11 members, of whom— NIAL COMMEMORATION COMMISSION Commission. (A) 2 members shall be employees of the Sec. 201. Definitions. National Park Service, of whom— (b) PURPOSE.—The purpose of this Act is to Sec. 202. Champlain Quadricentennial Com- (i) one shall be the Director of the National memoration Commission. establish the Champlain Quadricentennial Park Service (or a designee of the Director); Sec. 203. Audit of Commission. Commemoration Commission and the Hud- and Sec. 204. Authorization of appropriations. son-Fulton 400th Commemoration Commis- (ii) one shall be an employee of the Na- TITLE III—HUDSON-FULTON 400TH sion, to— tional Park Service having experience rel- COMMEMORATION COMMISSION (1) ensure a suitable national observance of evant to the commemoration, who shall be the Henry Hudson, Robert Fulton, and Sam- appointed by the Secretary; Sec. 301. Definitions. uel de Champlain 2009 commemorations (B) 4 members shall be appointed by the Sec. 302. Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemora- through cooperation with and assistance to Secretary from among individuals who, on tion Commission. the programs and activities of New York, the date of the enactment of this Act, are Sec. 303. Audit of Commission. Vermont, and the commemorative commis- serving as members of the State of New Sec. 304. Authorization of appropriations. sions formed by these States; York’s Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricen- TITLE I—FINDINGS AND PURPOSE (2) assist in ensuring that Hudson-Fulton- tennial Commission and are residents of the SEC. 101. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE. Champlain 2009 observances provide an excel- Champlain Valley; (a) FINDINGS.—The Congress finds the fol- lent visitor experience and beneficial inter- (C) 4 members shall be appointed by the lowing: action between visitors and the natural and Secretary from among individuals who, on (1) The first European exploration of the cultural resources of the New York and the date of the enactment of this Act, are Hudson River and Lake Champlain and the Vermont sites; serving as members of the State of introduction of steam navigation to mari- (3) assist in ensuring that Hudson-Fulton- Vermont’s Lake Champlain Quadricenten- time commerce were events of major histor- Champlain 2009 observances are inclusive and nial Commission and are residents of ical importance, both in the United States appropriately recognize the diverse Hudson Vermont; and and internationally. River and Lake Champlain Valley commu- (D) one member shall be appointed by the (2) In 1609, Englishman Henry Hudson, act- nities that developed over four centuries; Secretary from among individuals who have ing in the service of the Dutch East India (4) facilitate international involvement, an interest in, demonstrated their support Company, was the first European to sail up including the involvement of the commemo- for, and demonstrated expertise appropriate the river later named for him in the vessel rative commission formed by Canada, in the to, the commemoration, and are knowledge- HALF MOON. Also in 1609, French explorer Hudson-Fulton-Champlain 2009 observances; able of the Champlain Valley. Samuel de Champlain was the first European (5) support and facilitate marketing efforts (2) TERM; VACANCIES.— to see the lake later named for him, as well for a commemorative coin, a commemora- (A) TERM.—Each member of the Commis- as the shores of Northern New York and tive stamp, and related activities for the sion shall be appointed for the life of the Vermont. Hudson-Fulton-Champlain 2009 observances; Commission.

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(B) VACANCIES.— performance plans in accordance with sec- (C) TRAVEL EXPENSES.—A member of the (i) IN GENERAL.—A vacancy on the Commis- tion 1115 of title 31, United States Code, for Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, sion shall be filled in the same manner in the activities of the Commission carried out including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at which the original appointment was made. under this Act. rates authorized for an employee of an agen- (ii) PARTIAL TERM.—A member appointed (3) REPORTS.— cy under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, to fill a vacancy on the Commission shall (A) ANNUAL REPORT.—The Commission United States Code, while away from the serve for the remainder of the term for which shall submit to the Congress an annual re- home or regular place of business of the the predecessor of the member was ap- port that contains a list of each gift, be- member in the performance of the duties of pointed. quest, or devise with a value of more than the Commission. (3) MEETINGS.— $250, together with the identity of the donor (2) STAFF.— (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall of each such gift, bequest, or devise. (A) IN GENERAL.—The chairperson of the meet— (B) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than Sep- Commission may, without regard to the civil (i) at least twice each year; or tember 30, 2010, the Commission shall submit service laws (including regulations), appoint (ii) at the call of the chairperson or the to the Secretary a final report that con- and terminate an executive director and majority of the members of the Commission. tains— such other additional personnel as are nec- (B) INITIAL MEETING.—Not later than 30 (i) a summary of the activities of the Com- essary to enable the Commission to perform days after the date on which all members of mission; the duties of the Commission. the Commission have been appointed, the (ii) a final accounting of funds received and (B) CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE DIREC- Commission shall hold the initial meeting of expended by the Commission; and TOR.—The employment of an executive direc- the Commission. (iii) the findings and recommendations of tor shall be subject to confirmation by the (4) CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON.— the Commission. Commission. (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall (d) POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.— (3) COMPENSATION.— N GENERAL elect the chairperson and the vice chair- (1) I .—The Commission may— (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in person of the Commission on an annual (A) solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, subparagraph (B), the chairperson of the basis. bequests, or devises of money or other real Commission may fix the compensation of the (B) VICE CHAIRPERSON.—The vice chair- or personal property for the purpose of aid- executive director and other personnel with- person shall serve as the chairperson in the ing or facilitating the work of the Commis- out regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and absence of the chairperson. sion; subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United (B) appoint such advisory committees as (5) QUORUM.—A majority of voting mem- States Code, relating to classification of po- the Commission determines to be necessary bers of the Commission shall constitute a sitions and General Schedule pay rates. quorum, but a lesser number may hold meet- to carry out this Act; (B) MAXIMUM RATE OF PAY.—The rate of (C) authorize any member or employee of ings. pay for the executive director and other per- the Commission to take any action that the (6) VOTING.—The Commission shall act sonnel shall not exceed the rate payable for Commission is authorized to take by this only on an affirmative vote of a majority of level V of the Executive Schedule under sec- Act; the voting members of the Commission. tion 5316 of title 5, United States Code. (c) DUTIES.— (D) subject to the availability of appropria- (4) DETAIL OF GOVERNMENT AND LAKE CHAM- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall— tions, procure supplies, services, and prop- PLAIN BASIN PROGRAM EMPLOYEES.— (A) plan, develop, and execute programs erty, and make or enter into contracts, (A) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES.— and activities appropriate to commemorate leases, or other legal agreements, to carry the 400th anniversary of the voyage of Sam- out this Act, except that any contracts, (i) IN GENERAL.—At the request of the Com- uel de Champlain, the first European to dis- leases, or other legal agreements made or en- mission, the head of any Federal agency may cover and explore Lake Champlain; tered into by the Commission directly or detail, on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable (B) facilitate Champlain-related activities with administrative assistance from the basis, any of the personnel of the agency to throughout the United States; Lake Champlain Basin Program shall not ex- the Commission to assist the Commission in (C) coordinate its activities with State tend beyond the date of the termination of carrying out the duties of the Commission commemoration commissions and appro- the Commission; under this Act. priate Federal Government entities, includ- (E) use the United States mails in the (ii) CIVIL SERVICE STATUS.—The detail of an ing the Departments of Agriculture, Defense, same manner and under the same conditions employee under clause (i) shall be without State, and Transportation, the Lake Cham- as other Federal agencies; interruption or loss of civil service status or plain Basin Program, the National Endow- (F) subject to approval by the Commission privilege. ment for the Humanities and the National and the availability of appropriations, make (B) STATE EMPLOYEES.—The Commission Endowment for the Arts, and the Smithso- grants in amounts not to exceed $20,000 to may— nian Institution; communities, nonprofit organizations, and (i) accept the services of personnel detailed (D) encourage civic, patriotic, historical, commemorative commissions formed by the from States (including subdivisions of educational, artistic, religious, economic, States to develop programs to assist in the States); and and other organizations throughout the commemoration; (ii) reimburse States for services of de- United States to organize and participate in (G) subject to the availability of appropria- tailed personnel. anniversary activities to expand the under- tions, make grants in amounts not to exceed (C) LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM EM- standing and appreciation of the significance $20,000 to research and scholarly organiza- PLOYEES.—The Commission may— of the voyage of Samuel de Champlain; tions to research, publish, or distribute in- (i) accept the services of personnel from (E) provide technical assistance to States, formation relating to the early history of the Lake Champlain Basin Program; and localities, and nonprofit organizations to the voyage of Champlain; and (ii) reimburse the Lake Champlain Basin further the commemoration; (H) provide technical assistance to the Program for services of detailed personnel. (F) coordinate and facilitate for the public States, localities, and nonprofit organiza- (5) VOLUNTEER AND UNCOMPENSATED SERV- scholarly research on, publication about, and tions to develop programs and facilities to ICES.—Notwithstanding section 1342 of title interpretation of, the voyage of Samuel de further the commemoration. 31, United States Code, the Commission may Champlain; (2) COORDINATION AND CONSULTATION WITH accept and use voluntary and uncompensated (G) ensure that the Champlain 2009 anni- LAKE CHAMPLAIN BASIN PROGRAM.—The Com- services as the Commission determines nec- versary provides a lasting legacy and long- mission shall coordinate and consult with essary. term public benefit by assisting in the devel- the Lake Champlain Basin Program in pro- (6) SUPPORT SERVICES.—The Director of the opment of appropriate programs and facili- viding grants and technical assistance under National Park Service shall provide to the ties; subparagraphs (F), (G), and (H) of paragraph Commission, on a reimbursable basis, such (H) assist in ensuring that the observances (1) for the conduct of activities relating to administrative support services as the Com- of the voyage of Samuel de Champlain are the commemoration of the voyage of Samuel mission may request. inclusive and appropriately recognize the ex- de Champlain. (f) PROCUREMENT OF TEMPORARY AND INTER- periences and heritage of all people present (e) COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS.— MITTENT SERVICES.—Subject to the avail- when Samuel de Champlain arrived in the (1) COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE COM- ability of appropriations, the chairperson of Champlain Valley; and MISSION.— the Commission may procure temporary and (I) consult and coordinate with the Lake (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in intermittent services in accordance with sec- Champlain Basin Program and other rel- subparagraph (B), a member of the Commis- tion 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at evant organizations in the planning and de- sion shall serve without compensation. rates for individuals that do not exceed the velopment of programs and activities for the (B) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES.—A member of the daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic commemoration of the voyage of Samuel de Commission who is an officer or employee of pay prescribed for level V of the Executive Champlain. the Federal Government shall serve without Schedule under section 5316 of that title. (2) STRATEGIC PLAN AND ANNUAL PERFORM- compensation in addition to the compensa- (g) FACA NONAPPLICABILITY.—Section 14(b) ANCE PLANS.—The Commission shall prepare tion received for the services of the member of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 a strategic plan in accordance with section as an officer or employee of the Federal Gov- U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Commis- 306 of title 5, United States Code, and annual ernment. sion.

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(h) NO EFFECT ON AUTHORITY.—Nothing in an interest in, demonstrated their support (D) encourage civic, patriotic, historical, this section supersedes the authority of the for, and demonstrated expertise appropriate educational, artistic, religious, economic, States or the National Park Service con- to, the commemoration, of whom— and other organizations throughout the cerning the commemoration. (i) one shall be knowledgeable of the Hud- United States to organize and participate in (i) TERMINATION.—The Commission shall son River Valley National Heritage Area; anniversary activities to expand the under- terminate on December 31, 2010, and shall and standing and appreciation of the significance transfer all documents and materials of the (ii) one shall be knowledgeable of New of the voyages of Henry Hudson and Robert Commission to the National Archives or York City as it relates to the commemora- Fulton; other appropriate Federal entity. tion; (E) provide technical assistance to States, SEC. 203. AUDIT OF COMMISSION. (F) one member shall be the chairperson of localities, and nonprofit organizations to The Inspector General of the Department any commemorative commission formed by further the commemoration; of the Interior shall perform an annual audit New York, or the designee of the chair- (F) coordinate and facilitate for the public of the Commission, shall make the results of person; and scholarly research on, publication about, and the audit available to the public, and shall (G) two members shall be appointed by the interpretation of, the voyages of Henry Hud- transmit such results to the Committee on Secretary, after consideration of the rec- son and Robert Fulton; Government Reform of the House of Rep- ommendation of the mayor of the City of (G) ensure that the Hudson-Fulton 2009 resentatives. New York and after consultation with Mem- commemorations provide a lasting legacy SEC. 204. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. bers of the House of Representatives whose and long-term public benefit by assisting in districts encompass the City of New York. There is authorized to be appropriated the development of appropriate programs $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through (2) TERM; VACANCIES.— and facilities; and 2011 to carry out this title, of which— (A) TERM.—Each member of the Commis- (H) assist in ensuring that the observances (1) 45 percent shall be for New York activi- sion shall be appointed for the life of the of the voyage of Henry Hudson are inclusive ties relating to the Samuel de Champlain Commission. and appropriately recognize the experiences commemoration; (B) VACANCIES.— and heritage of all people present when (2) 45 percent shall be for Vermont activi- (i) IN GENERAL.—A vacancy on the Commis- ties relating to the Samuel de Champlain sion shall be filled in the same manner in Henry Hudson sailed the Hudson River. commemoration; and which the original appointment was made. (2) STRATEGIC PLAN AND ANNUAL PERFORM- (3) 10 percent shall be for distribution by (ii) PARTIAL TERM.—A member appointed ANCE PLANS.—The Commission shall prepare the Commission in accordance with this Act to fill a vacancy on the Commission shall a strategic plan in accordance with section for activities relating to the commemora- serve for the remainder of the term for which 306 of title 5, United States Code, and annual tion. the predecessor of the member was ap- performance plans in accordance with sec- tion 1115 of title 31, United States Code, for TITLE III—HUDSON-FULTON 400TH pointed. the activities of the Commission carried out COMMEMORATION COMMISSION (3) MEETINGS.— N GENERAL under this Act. SEC. 301. DEFINITIONS. (A) I .—The Commission shall (3) REPORTS.— In this title: meet— (i) at least twice each year; or (A) ANNUAL REPORT.—The Commission (1) COMMEMORATION.—The term ‘‘com- shall submit to the Congress an annual re- memoration’’ means the commemoration (ii) at the call of the chairperson or the port that contains a list of each gift, be- of— majority of the members of the Commission. quest, or devise with a value of more than (A) the 200th anniversary of Robert Ful- (B) INITIAL MEETING.—Not later than 30 $250, together with the identity of the donor ton’s voyage in the CLERMONT; and days after the date on which all members of (B) the 400th anniversary of Henry Hud- the Commission have been appointed, the of each such gift, bequest, or devise. son’s voyage in the HALF MOON. Commission shall hold the initial meeting of (B) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than Sep- the Commission. (2) COMMISSION.—The term ‘‘Commission’’ tember 30, 2010, the Commission shall submit means the Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemo- (4) CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON.— to the Secretary a final report that con- ration Commission established by section (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall tains— 302(a). elect the chairperson and the vice chair- (i) a summary of the activities of the Com- person of the Commission on an annual (3) GOVERNOR.—The term ‘‘Governor’’ mission; means the Governor of the State of New basis. (ii) a final accounting of funds received and York. (B) VICE CHAIRPERSON.—The vice chair- expended by the Commission; and person shall serve as the chairperson in the (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (iii) the findings and recommendations of means the Secretary of the Interior. absence of the chairperson. the Commission. (5) QUORUM.—A majority of voting mem- (5) STATE.—The term ‘‘State’’— (d) POWERS OF THE COMMISSION.— (A) means the State of New York; and bers shall constitute a quorum, but a lesser number may hold meetings. (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission may— (B) includes agencies and entities of each (A) solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, such State. (6) VOTING.— (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall act bequests, or devises of money or other real SEC. 302. HUDSON-FULTON 400TH COMMEMORA- or personal property for the purpose of aid- TION COMMISSION. only on an affirmative vote of a majority of the voting members of the Commission. ing or facilitating the work of the Commis- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- sion; tablish a commission to be known as the (B) NONVOTING MEMBER.—The individual (B) appoint such advisory committees as ‘‘Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemoration Com- appointed under subparagraph (D)(ii) of para- the Commission determines to be necessary mission’’. graph (1) shall be a nonvoting member, and to carry out this Act; (b) MEMBERSHIP.— shall serve only in an advisory capacity. (C) authorize any member or employee of (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall be (c) DUTIES.— composed of 16 members, of whom— (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall— the Commission to take any action that the (A) 1 member shall be appointed by the (A) plan, develop, and execute programs Commission is authorized to take by this Secretary, after consideration of the rec- and activities appropriate to commemorate Act; ommendation of the Governor; the 400th anniversary of the voyage of Henry (D) subject to the availability of appropria- (B) 6 members shall be appointed by the Hudson, the first European to sail up the tions, procure supplies, services, and prop- Secretary, after consideration of the rec- Hudson River, and the 200th anniversary of erty, and make or enter into contracts, ommendations from the Members of the the voyage of Robert Fulton, the first person leases, or other legal agreements, to carry House of Representatives whose districts en- to use steam navigation on a commercial out this Act except that any contracts, compass the Hudson River Valley; basis; leases, or other legal agreements made or en- (C) 2 members shall be appointed by the (B) facilitate Hudson-Fulton-related ac- tered into by the Commission shall not ex- Secretary, after consideration of the rec- tivities throughout the United States; tend beyond the date of the termination of ommendations from the Members of the Sen- (C) coordinate its activities with the State the Commission; ate from New York; commemoration commission and appropriate (E) use the United States mails in the (D) 2 members shall be employees of the Federal Government agencies, including the same manner and under the same conditions National Park Service, of whom— Departments of Agriculture, Defense, State, as other Federal agencies; (i) one shall be the Director of the National and Transportation, the National Park Serv- (F) subject to approval by the Commission Park Service (or a designee of the Director); ice with respect to the Hudson River Valley and the availability of appropriations, make and National Heritage Area, and the American grants in amounts not to exceed $20,000 to (ii) one shall be an employee of the Na- Heritage Rivers Initiative Interagency Com- communities, nonprofit organizations, and tional Park Service having experience rel- mittee established by Executive Order 13061, commemorative commissions formed by the evant to the commemoration, who shall be dated September 11, 1997, the National En- State to develop programs to assist in the appointed by the Secretary; dowment for the Humanities and the Na- commemoration; (E) 2 members shall be appointed by the tional Endowment for the Arts, and the (G) subject to the availability of appropria- Secretary from among individuals who have Smithsonian Institution; tions, make grants in amounts not to exceed

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.011 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10712 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 $20,000 to research and scholarly organiza- (f) PROCUREMENT OF TEMPORARY AND INTER- Mr. Hudson sailed to Nova Scotia and tions to research, publish, or distribute in- MITTENT SERVICES.—Subject to the avail- then sailed south. In 1609, he found formation relating to the early history of ability of appropriations, the chairperson of what is now called the Hudson River. the voyages of Hudson and Fulton; and the Commission may procure temporary and Also in 1609, a French explorer, Samuel (H) provide technical assistance to the intermittent services in accordance with sec- State, localities, and nonprofit organizations tion 3109(b) of title 5, United States Code, at de Champlain, was exploring Lake to develop programs and facilities to further rates for individuals that do not exceed the Champlain, as well as the shore of the commemoration. daily equivalent of the annual rate of basic northern New York and Vermont. (e) COMMISSION PERSONNEL MATTERS.— pay prescribed for level V of the Executive These voyages were two of the most (1) COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE COM- Schedule under section 5316 of that title. significant passages in the European MISSION.— (g) FACA NONAPPLICABILITY.—Section 14(b) exploration and discovery of America. (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 They led to the establishment of a subparagraph (B), a member of the Commis- U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Commis- Dutch settlement of what is now the sion shall serve without compensation. sion. (h) NO EFFECT ON AUTHORITY.—Nothing in capital city of the State of New York. (B) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES.—A member of the Also, it led to the establishment of Commission who is an officer or employee of this section supersedes the authority of the the Federal Government shall serve without States or the National Park Service con- French trading posts, military posts compensation in addition to the compensa- cerning the commemoration. and settlements as far south as Lake tion received for the services of the member (i) TERMINATION.—The Commission shall George. These settlements had a great as an officer or employee of the Federal Gov- terminate on December 31, 2010, and shall influence on our Nation’s history, cul- ernment. transfer all documents and materials of the ture, law, and commerce. Commission to the National Archives or (C) TRAVEL EXPENSES.—A member of the In 1807, Robert Fulton navigated the other appropriate Federal entity. Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, Hudson River from the city of New including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at SEC. 303. AUDIT OF COMMISSION. The Inspector General of the Department York to Albany in a steamboat which rates authorized for an employee of an agen- successfully began the use of steam cy under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, of the Interior shall perform an annual audit United States Code, while away from the of the Commission, shall make the results of navigation on a commercial basis. It home or regular place of business of the the audit available to the public, and shall revolutionized waterborne commerce member in the performance of the duties of transmit such results to the Committee on on the great rivers of the United States the Commission. Government Reform of the House of Rep- and fostered international relations (2) STAFF.— resentatives. through transoceanic travel and trade. (A) IN GENERAL.—The chairperson of the SEC. 304. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. The Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quad- Commission may, without regard to the civil There is authorized to be appropriated ricentennial Commemoration Act of service laws (including regulations), appoint $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2007 through 2007 establishes two commissions that and terminate an executive director and 2011 to carry out this title, of which— such other additional personnel as are nec- (1) 80 percent shall be for Hudson Valley would ensure a national observance of essary to enable the Commission to perform activities relating to the commemoration; the Henry Hudson, Robert Fulton, and the duties of the Commission. (2) 10 percent shall be for Samuel de Champlain 2009 commemo- (B) CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE DIREC- activities relating to the commemoration; rations through cooperation with the TOR.—The employment of an executive direc- and assistance to the programs and activi- tor shall be subject to confirmation by the (3) 10 percent shall be for distribution by ties of New York, Vermont, and the Commission. the Commission in accordance with this Act commemorative commissions formed (3) COMPENSATION.— for activities relating to the commemora- by these States. (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in tion. Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- subparagraph (B), the chairperson of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- league, Representative MAURICE HIN- Commission may fix the compensation of the ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- executive director and other personnel with- CHEY, for introducing this legislation, out regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- and I urge its swift passage. subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of States Code, relating to classification of po- each will control 20 minutes. my time. sitions and General Schedule pay rates. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield (B) MAXIMUM RATE OF PAY.—The rate of from Illinois. myself such time as I may consume. pay for the executive director and other per- GENERAL LEAVE Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1520 establishes sonnel shall not exceed the rate payable for Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I two important and historically based level V of the Executive Schedule under sec- tion 5316 of title 5, United States Code. ask unanimous consent that all Mem- commissions. One commission recog- (4) DETAIL OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES.— bers may have 5 legislative days in nizes the explorations of Henry Hudson (A) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES.— which to revise and extend their re- and Robert Fulton in New York and (i) IN GENERAL.—At the request of the Com- marks. Vermont, and the other recognizes mission, the head of any Federal agency may The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Samuel de Champlain’s discoveries in detail, on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable objection to the request of the gen- the same region. The overall goal of basis, any of the personnel of the agency to tleman from Illinois? the Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemora- the Commission to assist the Commission in There was no objection. tion Commission is to plan, develop, carrying out the duties of the Commission under this Act. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I and perform activities to commemo- (ii) CIVIL SERVICE STATUS.—The detail of an yield myself such time as I may con- rate the 400th anniversary of Henry employee under clause (i) shall be without sume. Hudson’s voyage on the New York river interruption or loss of civil service status or Mr. Speaker, as a Member of the named in his honor and the 200th anni- privilege. House Committee on Oversight and versary of Robert Fulton’s voyage. (B) STATE EMPLOYEES.—The Commission Government Reform, I am pleased to In 1609, Englishman Henry Hudson, may— join my colleague in the consideration under the direction of the Dutch East (i) accept the services of personnel detailed of H.R. 1520, a bill to establish the India Company, was named the first from the State (including subdivisions of the Champlain Quadricentennial Com- State); and European to sail up the river later to (ii) reimburse the State for services of de- memoration Commission and the Hud- be named for him and his significant tailed personnel. son-Fulton 400th Commemoration exploration. In 1807, Robert Fulton’s (5) VOLUNTEER AND UNCOMPENSATED SERV- Commission. H.R. 1520 was introduced breakthrough use of commercial steam ICES.—Notwithstanding section 1342 of title by Representative MAURICE HINCHEY on navigation revolutionized water-based 31, United States Code, the Commission may March 14, 2007. This legislation was re- commerce, naval warfare, and inter- accept and use voluntary and uncompensated ported from the Oversight and Govern- national relations. services as the Commission determines nec- ment Reform Committee on July 19, It was these important expeditions essary. 2007, by voice vote. which brought about the earliest en- (6) SUPPORT SERVICES.—The Director of the National Park Service shall provide to the Mr. Speaker, Henry Hudson was hired counters of Native Americans and Eu- Commission, on a reimbursable basis, such by the Dutch East India company to ropeans. These voyages introduced new administrative support services as the Com- try to find the Northwest Passage. On methods of commerce and trade and mission may request. this trip in a ship called the Half Moon, also introduced new religious beliefs,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:06 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.011 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10713 cultural exchange, and traditions was a United States of America. The char- The Clerk read the title of the bill. which extend into the present day. To- acter of the region, and the history of the na- The text of the bill is as follows: gether, these two historic events will tion, was strongly shaped by two separate H.R. 1389 be celebrated through the creation of voyages that occurred almost 400 years ago. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- the Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemora- In July of 1609, the French explorer Samuel resentatives of the United States of America in tion Commission. The same year of de Champlain, having already founded the Congress assembled, Hudson’s exploration, Francis Samuel settlement of Quebec, arrived with a group of SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. de Champlain became the first Euro- Native Americans at what would eventually be This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Star-Span- pean to discover the New York lake known as Lake Champlain. This expedition gled Banner and War of 1812 Bicentennial later to be named in his honor. would lay the groundwork for the settlement of Commission Act’’. The Champlain Quadricentennial the Champlain valley by French colonists in SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE. Commemoration Commission will co- the ‘‘New World’’. (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds that— ordinate its festivities and celebrations The next month, Henry Hudson would begin (1) the War of 1812 served as a crucial test for the United States Constitution and the with the Hudson-Fulton Commission. the voyage aboard that Half Moon that would bring him into New York under the Dutch flag. newly established democratic Government; These commissions promote continued (2) vast regions of the new multi-party de- education and observations of historic His efforts to find a sea route to on be- mocracy, including the Chesapeake Bay, the events such as these which have helped half of the Dutch East India Company travels Gulf of Mexico and the Niagara Frontier, to make our country what it is today. would eventually take him up what is now the were affected by the War of 1812 including They influence the culture, heritage, Hudson River almost to Albany. Hudson was the States of , Connecticut, Dela- and way of life for all early citizens of to be the first European explorer to navigate ware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indi- America. and note the full length of the Hudson River, ana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mis- I urge my colleagues to support the and along the way he noted the region’s inher- ent beauty and engaged in trade with Native sissippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, New passage of H.R. 1520. Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Penn- Mr. MCHUGH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Americans. By laying the groundwork for settlement and sylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Ten- strong support of H.R. 1520, the Hudson-Ful- nessee, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West ton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commemora- commerce in the region, these voyages would Virginia, and the District of Columbia; tion Act of 2007. I am proud to be an original help establish a corridor for trade that helped (3) the British occupation of American ter- cosponsor of this legislation, which I have to drive the prosperity of the ‘‘New World’’ and ritory along the Great Lakes and in other re- been working with the Gentleman from New continues to be an economic engine of Amer- gions, the burning of Washington, DC, the ica. American victories at Fort McHenry, New York, Mr. HINCHEY, since 2003 to enact. In Two centuries after those fateful journeys, Orleans, and Plattsburgh, among other bat- fact, the House previously passed our bill, the region was once again home to a break- tles, had far reaching effects on American so- H.R. 2528, by voice vote during the 108th through that would transform commerce and ciety; Congress. transportation throughout the continent. On (4) at the Battle of Baltimore, Francis The bill, H.R. 1520, before the House today Scott Key wrote the poem that celebrated August 17, 1807 Robert Fulton successfully would authorize $500,000 annually from fiscal the flag and later was titled ‘‘the Star-Span- sailed his steamboat from New York City to year 2007 through fiscal year 2011 for the gled Banner’’; Albany in the first long-distance trip of such a Champlain Quadricentennial Commemoration (5) the poem led to the establishment of vessel. This 32-hour long trip opened the Commission, to plan and execute programs the flag as an American icon and became the gateway to a new means of trade and trans- words of the national anthem of the United and activities to commemorate the 400th anni- portation. States in 1932; and versary of Samuel de Champlain’s voyage. The Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadri- (6) it is in the national interest to provide Likewise, H.R. 1520 would also authorize centennial Commemoration Act of 2007 will for appropriate commemorative activities to $500,000 annually from fiscal year 2007 make sure that these events, and their con- maximize public understanding of the mean- ing of the War of 1812 in the history of the through fiscal year 2011 for a second commis- tribution to the greatness of our nation, will be sion, the Hudson-Fulton 400th Commemora- United States. appropriately honored. By establishing the (b) PURPOSES.—The purposes of this Act tion Commission, to plan and execute pro- Champlain Quadricentennial Commemoration grams and activities to commemorate the are to— Commission the Hudson-Fulton 400th Com- (1) establish the Star-Spangled Banner and 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s voyage, memoration Commission to plan and execute War of 1812 Commemoration Commission; as well as the 200th anniversary of Robert commemorative activities in the region, the bill (2) ensure a suitable national observance of Fulton’s invention of the steamboat. honors the storied past of the Hudson Valley, the War of 1812 by complementing, cooper- Samuel de Champlain, the ‘‘Father of New will bring increased prosperity to the region, ating with, and providing assistance to the France,’’ explored a great deal New York’s programs and activities of the various States and perhaps open the door to the Corridor’s 23rd Congressional District. In fact, he discov- involved in the commemoration; next great adventure. (3) encourage War of 1812 observances that ered Lake Champlain in 1609 and traveled ex- I yield back the balance of my time. tensively on the St. Lawrence River. Thus, my provide an excellent visitor experience and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I beneficial interaction between visitors and constituents in Northern New York, particularly yield back the balance of my time. the natural and cultural resources of the those in Clinton County, have a keen interest The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. various War of 1812 sites; in H.R. 1520, particularly its potential to en- MCGOVERN). The question is on the mo- (4) facilitate international involvement in hance tourism. tion offered by the gentleman from Illi- the War of 1812 observances; Thus, I greatly appreciate the work the Gen- nois (Mr. DAVIS) that the House sus- (5) support and facilitate marketing efforts tleman from New York, Mr. HINCHEY, the Gen- pend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. for a commemorative coin, stamp, and re- tleman from California, Mr. WAXMAN, and the 1520. lated activities for the War of 1812 observ- ances; and Gentleman from Virginia, Mr. DAVIS, have The question was taken; and (two- done to bring H.R. 1520 to the House floor (6) promote the protection of War of 1812 thirds being in the affirmative) the resources and assist in the appropriate devel- and I urge my colleagues to vote for it today. rules were suspended and the bill was opment of heritage tourism and economic Mr. HALL of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise passed. benefits to the United States. today to express my strong support for the A motion to reconsider was laid on SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial the table. In this Act: Commemoration Act of 2007, which will simul- f (1) COMMEMORATION.—The term ‘‘com- taneously pay homage to the history of New memoration’’ means the commemoration of York’s Hudson Valley while helping to build a STAR-SPANGLED BANNER AND the War of 1812. vibrant future for the region. WAR OF 1812 BICENTENNIAL COM- (2) COMMISSION.—The term ‘‘Commission’’ I would like to thank my colleague, Rep- MISSION ACT means the Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission established in resentative HINCHEY, for his leadership in Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I section 4(a). drafting and introducing this important piece of move to suspend the rules and pass the (3) QUALIFIED CITIZEN.—The term ‘‘quali- legislation. bill (H.R. 1389) to establish the Star- fied citizen’’ means a citizen of the United Mr. Speaker, the Hudson Valley has been a Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Bicen- States with an interest in, support for, and cradle of prosperity and a driver of growth and tennial Commission, and for other pur- expertise appropriate to the commemora- exploration in America since long before there poses, as amended. tion.

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(4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (h) REMOVAL.—Any member who fails to (2) appoint such advisory committees as means the Secretary of the Interior. attend 3 successive meetings of the Commis- the Commission determines to be necessary (5) STATES.—The term ‘‘States’’— sion or who otherwise fails to participate to carry out this Act; (A) means the States of Alabama, Ken- substantively in the work of the Commission (3) authorize any member or employee of tucky, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, may be removed by the Secretary and the the Commission to take any action the Com- Vermont, Virginia, New York, Maine, Michi- vacancy shall be filled in the same manner mission is authorized to take under this Act; gan, and Ohio; and as the original appointment was made. Mem- (4) use the United States mails in the same (B) includes agencies and entities of each bers serve at the discretion of the Secretary. manner and under the same conditions as State. SEC. 5. DUTIES. other agencies of the Federal Government; SEC. 4. STAR-SPANGLED BANNER AND WAR OF (a) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall— and 1812 COMMEMORATION COMMIS- (1) plan, encourage, develop, execute, and (5) make grants to communities, nonprofit, SION. coordinate programs, observances, and ac- commemorative commissions or organiza- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- tivities commemorating the historic events tions, and research and scholarly organiza- tablish a commission to be known as the that preceded and are associated with the tions to develop programs and products to ‘‘Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Bi- War of 1812; assist in researching, publishing, marketing, centennial Commission’’. and distributing information relating to the (b) MEMBERSHIP.— (2) facilitate the commemoration through- out the United States and internationally; commemoration. (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall be (b) LEGAL AGREEMENTS.— composed of 22 members, of whom— (3) coordinate the activities of the Com- mission with State commemoration commis- (1) IN GENERAL.—In carrying out this Act, (A) 11 members shall be qualified citizens the Commission may— appointed by the Secretary after consider- sions, the National Park Service, the Depart- ment of Defense, and other appropriate Fed- (A) procure supplies, services, and prop- ation of nominations submitted by the Gov- erty; and ernors of Alabama, Kentucky, Indiana, Lou- eral agencies; (4) encourage civic, patriotic, historical, (B) make or enter into contracts, leases, or isiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, New other legal agreements. York, Ohio, Vermont, and Virginia; educational, religious, economic, tourism, (2) LENGTH.—Any contract, lease, or other (B) 3 members shall be qualified citizens and other organizations throughout the United States to organize and participate in legal agreement made or entered into by the appointed by the Secretary after consider- Commission shall not extend beyond the ation of nominations submitted by the May- the commemoration to expand the under- standing and appreciation of the significance date of termination of the Commission. ors of the District of Columbia, the City of (c) INFORMATION FROM FEDERAL AGEN- of the War of 1812; Baltimore, and the City of New Orleans; CIES.— (5) provide technical assistance to States, (C) 2 members shall be employees of the (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission may se- localities, units of the National Park Sys- National Park Service, of whom— cure directly from a Federal agency such in- tem, and nonprofit organizations to further (i) 1 shall be the Director of the National formation as the Commission considers nec- the commemoration and commemorative Park Service (or a designee); and essary to carry out this Act. (ii) 1 shall be an employee of the National events; (2) PROVISION OF INFORMATION.—On request (6) coordinate and facilitate scholarly re- Park Service having experience relevant to of the Chairperson of the Commission, the search on, publication about, and interpreta- the commemoration; head of the agency shall provide the informa- tion of the people and events associated with (D) 4 members shall be qualified citizens tion to the Commission in accordance with appointed by the Secretary with consider- the War of 1812; applicable laws. (7) design, develop, and provide for the ation of recommendations— (d) FACA NONAPPLICABILITY.—Section 14(b) (i) 1 of which are submitted by the major- maintenance of an exhibit that will travel of the Federal Advisory Committees Act (5 ity leader of the Senate; throughout the United States during the U.S.C. App.) shall not apply to the Commis- (ii) 1 of which are submitted by the minor- commemoration period to interpret events of sion. ity leader of the Senate; the War of 1812 for the educational benefit of (e) NO EFFECT ON AUTHORITY.—Nothing in (iii) 1 of which are submitted by the major- the citizens of the United States; this Act supersedes the authority of the ity leader of the House of Representatives; (8) ensure that War of 1812 commemora- States or the National Park Service con- (iv) 1 of which are submitted by the minor- tions provide a lasting legacy and long-term cerning the commemoration. ity leader of the House of Representatives; public benefit leading to protection of the SEC. 7. PERSONNEL MATTERS. and natural and cultural resources associated (a) MEMBERS OF THE COMMISSION.— (E) 2 members shall be appointed by the with the War of 1812; and (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in sub- Secretary from among individuals with ex- (9) examine and review essential facilities section (c)(1)(A), a member of the Commis- pertise in the history of the War of 1812. and infrastructure at War of 1812 sites and sion shall serve without compensation. (2) DATE OF APPOINTMENTS.—The appoint- identify possible improvements that could be (2) TRAVEL EXPENSES.—A member of the ment of a member of the Commission shall made to enhance and maximize visitor expe- Commission shall be allowed travel expenses, be made not later than 120 days after the rience at the sites. including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at date of enactment of this Act. (b) STRATEGIC PLAN; ANNUAL PERFORMANCE rates authorized for an employee of an agen- (c) TERM; VACANCIES.— PLANS.—The Commission shall prepare a cy under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, (1) TERM.—A member shall be appointed strategic plan and annual performance plans United States Code, while away from the for the life of the Commission. for any activity carried out by the Commis- home or regular place of business of the (2) VACANCIES.—A vacancy on the Commis- sion under this Act. member in the performance of the duties of sion— (c) REPORTS.— the Commission. (A) shall not affect the powers of the Com- (1) ANNUAL REPORT.—The Commission shall (3) STATUS.—A member of the Commission, mission; and submit to Congress an annual report that who is not otherwise a Federal employee, (B) shall be filled in the same manner as contains a list of each gift, bequest, or devise shall be considered a Federal employee only the original appointment was made. to the Commission with a value of more than for purposes of the provisions of law related (d) VOTING.— $250, together with the identity of the donor to ethics, conflicts of interest, corruption, (1) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall act of each gift, bequest, or devise. and any other criminal or civil statute or only on an affirmative vote of a majority of (2) FINAL REPORT.—Not later than Sep- the members of the Commission. regulation governing the conduct of Federal tember 30, 2015, the Commission shall submit employees. (2) QUORUM.—A majority of the members of to the Secretary and Congress a final report (b) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND OTHER the Commission shall constitute a quorum. that includes— STAFF.— (e) CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON.— (A) a summary of the activities of the (1) IN GENERAL.—The Chairperson of the (1) SELECTION.—The Commission shall se- Commission; lect a chairperson and a vice chairperson Commission may, without regard to the pro- (B) a final accounting of any funds received visions of title 5, United States Code, gov- from among the members of the Commis- or expended by the Commission; and sion. erning appointments in the competitive (C) the final disposition of any historically service and termination of employees (in- (2) ABSENCE OF CHAIRPERSON.—The vice significant items acquired by the Commis- chairperson shall act as chairperson in the cluding regulations), appoint and terminate sion and other properties not previously re- an executive director, subject to confirma- absence of the chairperson. ported. (f) INITIAL MEETING.—Not later than 60 tion by the Commission, and appoint and days after the date on which all members of SEC. 6. POWERS. terminate such other additional personnel as the Commission have been appointed and (a) IN GENERAL.—The Commission may— are necessary to enable the Commission to funds have been provided, the Commission (1) solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts perform the duties of the Commission. shall hold the initial meeting of the Commis- or donations of money, services, and real and (2) STATUS.—The Executive Director and sion. personal property related to the commemo- other staff appointed under this subsection (g) MEETINGS.—Not less than twice a year, ration in accordance with Department of the shall be considered Federal employees under the Commission shall meet at the call of the Interior and National Park Service written section 2105 of title 5, United States Code, chairperson or a majority of the members of standards for accepting gifts from outside notwithstanding the requirements of such the Commission. sources; section.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.013 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10715 (3) CONFIRMATION OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.— lent of the annual rate of basic pay pre- fort’s still standing with its huge flag The employment of an executive director scribed for level V of the Executive Schedule flying in the breeze of victory that Mr. shall be subject to confirmation by the Com- under section 5316 of that title. Such per- Key wrote a poem celebrating this bat- mission. sonnel shall be considered Federal employees tle and the flag. He composed the lines (4) COMPENSATION.— under section 2105 of title 5, United States (A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in Code, notwithstanding the requirements of about our great flag, the Star-Spangled subparagraph (B), the Chairperson of the such section. Banner, which later became our coun- Commission may fix the compensation of the SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. try’s national anthem. executive director and other personnel with- (a) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to I support H.R. 1389, a bill that will es- out regard to the provisions of chapter 51 and be appropriated to carry out this Act not to tablish the Star-Spangled Banner and subchapter III of chapter 53 of title 5, United exceed $500,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 War of 1812 Bicentennial Commission States Code, relating to classification of po- through 2015. to encourage, plan and execute pro- sitions and General Schedule pay rates. (b) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.—Amounts ap- grams commemorating the historic (B) MAXIMUM RATE OF PAY.—The rate of propriated under this section for any fiscal events that are associated with the basic pay for the executive director and year shall remain available until December other personnel shall not exceed the rate 31, 2015. War of 1812. payable for level V of the Executive Sched- SEC. 9. TERMINATION OF COMMISSION. b 1515 ule under section 5316 of title 5, United (a) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall Mr. Speaker, I would commend Rep- States Code. terminate on December 31, 2015. (c) GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES.— (b) TRANSFER OF MATERIALS.—Not later resentative SARBANES for introducing (1) FEDERAL EMPLOYEES.— than the date of termination, the Commis- this legislation. (A) SERVICE ON COMMISSION.—A member of sion shall transfer any documents, mate- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the Commission who is an officer or em- rials, books, manuscripts, miscellaneous my time. ployee of the Federal Government shall serve printed matter, memorabilia, relics, exhib- Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield without compensation in addition to the its, and any materials donated to the Com- myself such time as I may consume. compensation received for the services of the mission that relate to the War of 1812, to member as an officer or employee of the Fed- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support Fort McHenry National Monument and His- of H.R. 1389, the Star-Spangled Banner eral Government. toric Shrine. (B) DETAIL.—At the request of the Commis- (c) DISPOSITION OF FUNDS.—Any funds held and War of 1812 Bicentennial Commis- sion, the head of any Federal agency may de- by the Commission on the date of termi- sion Act. The commission established tail, on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable nation shall be deposited in the general fund by this legislation would be responsible basis, any of the personnel of the agency to of the Treasury. for developing programs, observations, the Commission to assist the Commission in (d) ANNUAL AUDIT.—The Inspector General and activities commemorating the his- carrying out the duties of the Commission of the Department of the Interior shall per- under this Act. toric events associated with the War of form an annual audit of the Commission, 1812. The commission would also en- (C) CIVIL SERVICE STATUS.—Notwith- shall make the results of the audit available standing any other provisions in this sec- to the public, and shall transmit such results hance the visitor experience at the War tion, Federal employees who serve on the to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- of 1812 sites and facilitate scholarly re- Commission, are detailed to the Commission, ment Reform in the House of Representa- search on the people and events associ- or otherwise provide services under the Act, tives and the Committee on Judiciary in the ated with the War of 1812. This legisla- shall continue to be Federal employees for Senate. tion would provide for appropriate the purpose of any law specific to Federal The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- commemorative activities to increase employees, without interruption or loss of civil service status or privilege. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- public understanding, particularly that (2) STATE EMPLOYEES.—The Commission linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- of young people, of the meaning of the may— woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) War of 1812 and the history of the (A) accept the services of personnel de- each will control 20 minutes. United States. tailed from States (including subdivisions of The Chair recognizes the gentleman There is much to be learned about States) under subchapter VI of chapter 33 of from Illinois. the effect of the War of 1812 on Amer- title 5, United States Code; and GENERAL LEAVE ican history, including the victories at (B) reimburse States for services of de- Fort McHenry, New Orleans and tailed personnel. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I (d) MEMBERS OF ADVISORY COMMITTEES.— ask unanimous consent that all Mem- Plattsburg. As one example, it is often Members of advisory committees appointed bers may have 5 legislative days in overlooked or even forgotten that under section 6(a)(2)— which to revise and extend their re- Francis Scott Key wrote the Star- (1) shall not be considered employees of the marks. Spangled Banner during the War of Federal Government by reason of service on The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there 1812. the committees for the purpose of any law objection to the request of the gen- The commission is intending to raise specific to Federal employees, except for the public awareness through observations purposes of chapter 11 of title 18, United tleman from Illinois? States Code, relating to conflicts of interest; There was no objection. that will bring this important chapter and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I in American history to thousands of (2) may be paid travel expenses, including yield myself such time as I may con- visitors. I urge support of this bill. per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates au- sume. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of thorized for an employee of an agency under Mr. Speaker, as a member of the my time. subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United House Committee on Oversight and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, States Code, while away from the home or Government Reform, I am pleased to it is my pleasure to yield such time as regular place of business of the member in join my colleague in the consideration he might consume to the author of this the performance of the duties of the com- legislation, the gentleman from Mary- mittee. of H.R. 1389, a bill to establish the (e) VOLUNTEER AND UNCOMPENSATED SERV- Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 land (Mr. SARBANES). ICES.—Notwithstanding section 1342 of title Bicentennial Commission. Mr. SARBANES. I want to thank 31, United States Code, the Commission may H.R. 1389 was introduced by Rep- Chairman DAVIS for yielding me time. accept and use such voluntary and uncom- resentative John Sarbanes on March 7, Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support pensated services as the Commission deter- 2007. This legislation was reported from of H.R. 1389, the Star-Spangled Banner mines necessary. the Oversight and Government Reform and War of 1812 Bicentennial Commis- (f) SUPPORT SERVICES.—The Director of the National Park Service shall provide to the Committee on July 19, 2007, by voice sion Act, which I had the privilege of Commission, on a reimbursable basis, such vote. introducing. This legislation would em- administrative support services as the Com- Mr. Speaker, the War of 1812 was power a commission to plan and coordi- mission may request. fought between the United States and nate what I believe is going to be one (g) PROCUREMENT OF TEMPORARY AND Great Britain from June 1812 to the of the most spectacular and memorable INTERMITTENT SERVICES.—The Chairperson of spring of 1815. During this time, a commemorations in recent history in the Commission may employ experts and consultants on a temporary or intermittent young lawyer by the name of Francis this country, and that is the bicenten- basis in accordance with section 3109(b) of Scott Key witnessed the last assault by nial celebration of the War of 1812 and title 5, United States Code, at rates for indi- the British against Fort McHenry in the Francis Scott Key poem written viduals that do not exceed the daily equiva- Baltimore. He was so inspired by the during the British bombardment of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.013 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10716 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 Fort McHenry, Maryland, which later Mr. Speaker, this is no small flag. It So I thank the gentleman from Mary- became the Star-Spangled Banner, our is 30 feet by 42 feet in size. Such a flag land (Mr. SARBANES) again for intro- national anthem. could be seen for miles and miles away ducing this legislation and urge its pas- The Park Service recommended the from Fort McHenry. An American law- sage. creation of such a commission in a 2004 yer named Francis Scott Key was on- Mr. MCHUGH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in study. Its membership would be drawn board a British ship during the battle. strong support of H.R. 1389, the Star-Span- from citizens from historically signifi- He was there seeking the release of an gled Banner and War of 1812 Bicentennial cant States, from National Park Serv- American captive. After watching the Commission Act. I am proud to be an original ice officials, historical experts, and night battle and seeing the glorious cosponsor of this legislation, which is of great other individuals selected by congres- U.S. flag at sunrise, he wrote a poem, importance to my constituents in Northern sional leadership. later turned into a song called the New York. Thus, I greatly appreciate the work Because we are fast approaching the Star-Spangled Banner to honor this the Gentleman from Maryland, Mr. SARBANES, bicentennial of the War of 1812, I am American victory. the Gentleman from California, Mr. WAXMAN, pleased the House has taken up this This national anthem of ours is and the Gentleman from Virginia, Mr. DAVIS, legislation. I hope that the Senate will played at sports games and ceremonies have done to bring H.R. 1389 to the House do so as well and the measure can be and events across the Nation every floor. signed into law in the near future. day. In fact, I think the first time it I represent New York’s 23rd Congressional Mr. Speaker, many refer to the War was played at a sporting event was at a District, which encompasses most of Northern of 1812 as the ‘‘second war of independ- Chicago White Sox game in the early New York. From Lake Champlain in the east, ence.’’ When the war began, our fragile 1900s. Chairman DAVIS could correct my District runs along the St. Lawrence River experiment in democracy was still in me if that is incorrect. and our nation’s Northern border to Lake On- its early stages, and the Nation found Mr. Speaker, it is important that tario in the west. The District encompasses itself under attack from one of the Americans understand what the an- territory that played an important role in our most powerful countries in the world. them stands for and why it was writ- nation’s early history; much of it was literally Many wondered whether a democracy ten. I totally support H.R. 1389. This on the front lines of the War of 1812. could hold together through the trials bill will create a commission to plan During the War of 1812, my District was not of war. The War of 1812 proved that it activities, programs and observances of only the site of skirmishes but also the signifi- could, and set the stage for the spread history events surrounding this War of cant Battles of Plattsburgh and Sackets Har- of democracy around the world. 1812. I am proud of how the United bor. In fact, 193 years ago on September 11, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chair- States as a new democracy developed 1814, Commodore Thomas McDonough re- man WAXMAN and Chairman DAVIS for into a great Nation during this time. pulsed a British invasion led by Sir George bringing this measure to the floor. I This war and Francis Scott Key should Provost at Plattsburgh Bay on Lake Cham- hope all of my colleagues will support be celebrated and honored and recog- plain. McDonough’s victory was significant be- the bill, which will help ensure a fit- nized. cause it ended a grave threat and gave impe- ting celebration of the War of 1812 and By the way, Mr. Speaker, the British tus to then-ongoing peace negotiations. Like- the Star-Spangled Banner bicenten- left the United States permanently wise, but earlier during the war and on the nial. after the battle of Fort McHenry and other side of the District, Brigadier General Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield after Andrew Jackson and his boys de- Jacob Brown stopped a British invasion led by such time as he may consume to the feated the British at the Battle of New Sir George Provost and Commodore James distinguished gentleman from Texas Orleans. Yeo at Sackets Harbor. Of note, Sackets Har- (Mr. POE). Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I bor was the United States’ main shipbuilding Mr. POE. I thank the gentlewoman continue to reserve my time. naval base on Lake Ontario. for yielding, and I thank Mr. SARBANES Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, it is my In addition to providing a mechanism to for introducing this very important understanding that the majority has properly remember and honor these and other legislation. offered an amendment that I think im- significant events in our nation’s history, H.R. Mr. Speaker, it is imperative for all proves this bill. I support the amend- 1389 is also important to my constituents be- Americans to know our early American ment and would encourage others to cause of its potential to help increase tourism. history. Soon after the War of Inde- join me in supporting H.R. 1389, estab- Tourism is an important component of the pendence and American independence, lishing the Star-Spangled and War of economy in New York’s 23rd District and is a the new struggling United States had 1812 Bicentennial Commission. cornerstone of efforts to further much-needed to go to war again with to I applaud the gentleman from Mary- economic development. Accordingly, I ask my keep its independence. land (Mr. SARBANES) for his introduc- colleagues to vote for H.R. 1389 today and I Sometimes the War of 1812 is referred tion of this bill, and I would urge pas- look forward to working further to enact this to as the forgotten war in American sage. legislation. history. It is referred to as the ‘‘second Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I American War of Independence.’’ Be of my time. yield back the balance of our time. that as it may, we went to war with Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I The SPEAKER pro tempore. The England a second time because the support H.R. 1389, as amended, and I question is on the motion offered by British kidnapped American sailors on want to commend the gentleman from the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. the high seas and made them involun- Maryland for introducing this legisla- DAVIS) that the House suspend the tary servants in the British Navy. tion and for bringing to our attention rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1389, as When the British invaded the United the importance of the War of 1812, the amended. States during the War of 1812, they importance of our Star-Spangled Ban- The question was taken; and (two- burned this city, Washington. They ner. thirds being in the affirmative) the used Thomas Jefferson’s books to burn I also take this opportunity to com- rules were suspended and the bill, as this Capitol. They burned the White mend my elementary school teachers, amended, was passed. House. The President had to flee in the especially Mrs. Beadie King, who A motion to reconsider was laid on darkness of a torrential rainstorm. The taught in a one-room school, who was the table. United States future looked bleak. so good that she could teach about the f So after capturing Washington, DC, Star-Spangled Banner and you could the British headed north to finish the feel shivers kind of going up and down WOODROW WILSON PRESIDENTIAL United States off in Baltimore. During your back. I am so pleased that I can LIBRARY AUTHORIZATION ACT a heated sea battle, the British still at times feel those and recognize Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I bombarded Fort McHenry, defending perhaps what Francis Scott Key may move to suspend the rules and pass the the harbor of Baltimore. But the fort have been thinking and what he may bill (H.R. 1664) to authorize grants for commander stood defiant, refused to have been feeling when he looked up contributions toward the establish- surrender, and hoisted a massive Amer- and saw that the flag was still stand- ment of the Woodrow Wilson Presi- ican flag over the fort. ing. dential Library.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.032 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10717 The Clerk read the title of the bill. for contributions toward the establish- students and quickly made Princeton The text of the bill is as follows: ment of the Woodrow Wilson Presi- one of the most renowned universities H.R. 1664 dential Library. H.R. 1664 was intro- in the world. Due to Wilson’s legacy at Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- duced by Representative BOB GOOD- Princeton, I am pleased to have the resentatives of the United States of America in LATTE on March 23, 2007. This legisla- support of current Princeton President Congress assembled, tion was reported from the Oversight Shirley Tilghman as we establish this SECTION 1. GRANTS FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF Committee on July 19, 2007, by voice library. THE WOODROW WILSON PRESI- vote. H.R. 1664 gives the National Archives DENTIAL LIBRARY. Mr. Speaker, as a statesman, scholar the authority to make pass-through (a) GRANTS AUTHORIZED.—Subject to sub- and President, Woodrow Wilson faced grants for the establishment of the sections (b), (c), and (d), the Archivist of the Presidential library in Stanton, Vir- National Archives and Records Administra- an economic crisis and a world war tion may make grants to contribute funds while serving the country as Com- ginia, Woodrow Wilson’s birthplace, for the establishment in Staunton, Virginia, mander in Chief. Historians believe and does not create a new program. In of a library to preserve and make available that World War I and President Wil- addition, to ensure that this is a pub- materials related to the life of President son’s leadership radically altered the lic-private partnership, this legislation Woodrow Wilson and to provide interpretive role of diplomacy as a tool of foreign mandates that no grant shall be avail- and educational services that communicate policy, a policy that established a new able for the establishment of this li- the meaning of the life of Woodrow Wilson. path for America’s role in promoting brary until a private entity has raised (b) LIMITATION.—A grant may be made democracies throughout the world. His at least twice the amount to be allo- under subsection (a) only from funds appro- cated by the Archives. Quite frankly, priated to the Archivist specifically for that vision helped shape the powers and re- purpose. sponsibilities of the executive branch more Federal public-private programs (c) CONDITIONS ON GRANTS.— in times of war. should operate in this manner. (1) MATCHING REQUIREMENT.—A grant under H.R. 1664, the Woodrow Wilson Presi- Finally, and to ensure that the Wood- subsection (a) may not be made until such dential Library Authorization Act, will row Wilson Presidential Library is not time as the entity selected to receive the allow the National Archives to provide part of the Presidential Library Sys- grant certifies to the Archivist that funds grants for the establishment of a Presi- tem, this legislation states that the have been raised from non-Federal sources dential library to provide educational Federal Government shall have no role for use to establish the library in an amount or responsibility for the operation of equal to at least double the amount of the services to honor the life of former President Woodrow Wilson. the library. grant. I am also pleased to have the support (2) RELATION TO OTHER WOODROW WILSON Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- of several other presidential sites SITES AND MUSEUMS.—The Archivist shall fur- league, Representative BOB GOOD- ther condition a grant under subsection (a) LATTE, for introducing this legislation, throughout the Commonwealth of Vir- on the agreement of the grant recipient to and urge swift passage. ginia, known as the birthplace of Presi- operate the resulting library in cooperation Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of dents, including Monticello, Poplar with other Federal and non-Federal historic my time. Forest, Montpelier, Ash Lawn, and sites, parks, and museums that represent Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mount Vernon. significant locations or events in the life of Mr. Speaker, in order to increase the Woodrow Wilson. Cooperative efforts to pro- such time as he may consume to the distinguished gentleman from Virginia awareness and understanding of the mote and interpret the life of Woodrow Wil- life, principles and accomplishments of son may include the use of cooperative (Mr. GOODLATTE), the sponsor of this agreements, cross references, cross pro- bill. the 28th President of the United motion, and shared exhibits. Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I States, I ask that you join me in sup- (d) PROHIBITION OF CONTRIBUTION OF OPER- would like to thank the gentleman porting this legislation. I want to ATING FUNDS.—Grant amounts may not be from Illinois and the gentlewoman thank House leadership for scheduling used for the maintenance or operation of the from Illinois for their assistance with this bill today. The cosponsors include library. AX the entire Virginia delegation. I am (e) NON-FEDERAL OPERATION.—The Archi- this legislation, as well as Mr. W - MAN, the chairman of the Government also grateful to the staff of the Govern- vist shall have no involvement in the actual ment Reform Committee and the Office operation of the library, except at the re- Reform Committee, and my colleague quest of the non-Federal entity responsible from Virginia, Congressman TOM of Legislative Counsel for their assist- for the operation of the library. DAVIS, all of whom have been a great ance in crafting this bill. (f) AUTHORITY THROUGH FISCAL YEAR help in moving this legislation forward. As a reminder to my colleagues, this 2011.—The Archivist may not use the author- I rise in support of H.R. 1664, the legislation is identical to a bill the ity provided under subsection (a) after Sep- Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library House passed by a voice vote in the tember 30, 2011. Authorization Act, which will author- 109th Congress but was not considered The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ize grants from the National Archives in the Senate. At this time, I urge my ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- for the establishment of a Presidential colleagues to support this legislation. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentle- library to provide educational and in- continue to reserve. woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) terpretive service to honor the life of Mrs. BIGGERT. I yield myself such each will control 20 minutes. Woodrow Wilson. time as I may consume. The Chair recognizes the gentleman As a statesman, scholar and Presi- from Illinois. Mr. Speaker, during President dent, Woodrow Wilson faced economic Franklin D. Roosevelt’s second term of GENERAL LEAVE crisis, democratic decay and a world office, he decided there should be a way Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I war. Presidential historians agree that to preserve and maintain official ask unanimous consent that all Mem- World War I and President Wilson’s records and artifacts from his Presi- bers may have 5 legislative days in leadership radically altered the role of dency and the Presidency of future which to revise and extend their re- diplomacy as a tool of foreign policy, a generations. Until his Presidency, marks. policy that established a new path for many historic documents had been The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there America’s role in promoting democ- damaged, ruined or unaccounted for objection to the request of the gen- racies throughout the world. So, too, over the years. tleman from Illinois? did Wilson’s high-minded ideals craft a There was no objection. legacy that shaped the powers and re- b 1530 Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I sponsibilities of the executive branch President Roosevelt realized the need yield myself such time as I might con- in times of war. for preserving these valuable pieces of sume. Mr. Speaker, as a professor and presi- history and sought a way to make Mr. Speaker, as a member of the dent of Princeton University, Wilson them available to the public. House Committee on Oversight and created a more selective and account- There are currently 12 Presidential Government Reform, I am pleased to able system for higher education. By libraries, including the Nixon Presi- join my colleague in the consideration instituting curriculum reform, Wilson dential Materials. Each is funded of H.R. 1664, a bill to authorize grants revolutionized the roles of teachers and through private donations, and upon

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:06 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.035 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10718 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 completion of the library is turned SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (2) by striking the period at the end of over to the National Archives. These li- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Federal paragraph (4) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and braries are essentially museums and Aviation Administration Extension Act of (3) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- centers for learning about these Presi- 2007’’. lowing: SEC. 2. EXTENSION OF TAXES FUNDING AIRPORT ‘‘(5) such sums as may be necessary for the dents and their terms in office. H.R. AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND. 3-month period beginning October 1, 2007.’’. 1664 authorizes funding for the estab- (a) FUEL TAXES.—Subparagraph (B) of sec- lishment of a Woodrow Wilson Presi- tion 4081(d)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code SEC. 8. RESEARCH, ENGINEERING, AND DEVEL- OPMENT. dential Library in his birthplace of of 1986 is amended by striking ‘‘September Staunton, Virginia. It also states the 30, 2007’’ and inserting ‘‘December 31, 2007’’. Section 48102(a) of title 49, United States National Archives and Records Admin- (b) TICKET TAXES.— Code, is amended— istration will provide a matching grant (1) PERSONS.—Clause (ii) of section (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of para- graph (11)(L); towards the establishment of the li- 4261(j)(1)(A) of such Code is amended by striking ‘‘September 30, 2007’’ and inserting (2) by striking the period at the end of brary. The library will coordinate its ‘‘December 31, 2007’’. paragraph (12)(L) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and efforts with other Woodrow Wilson mu- (2) PROPERTY.—Clause (ii) of section (3) by adding at the end the following: seums to share exhibits and edu- 4271(d)(1)(A) of such Code is amended by ‘‘(13) such sums as may be necessary for cational services. striking ‘‘September 30, 2007’’ and inserting the 3-month period beginning October 1, The Presidency of Woodrow Wilson is ‘‘December 31, 2007’’. 2007.’’. known for many achievements, among (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made by this section shall take effect on Oc- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- them are establishing the Federal ant to the rule, the gentleman from Trade Commission and the Federal Re- tober 1, 2007. Michigan (Mr. LEVIN) and the gen- serve. He served his second term during SEC. 3. EXTENSION OF AIRPORT AND AIRWAY TRUST FUND EXPENDITURE AU- tleman from Missouri (Mr. HULSHOF) World War I and worked with European THORITY. each will control 20 minutes. nations on peace negotiations, includ- (a) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (1) of section ing the Treaty of Versailles and the 9502(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 The Chair recognizes the gentleman creation of the League of Nations. is amended— from Michigan. It is critical we preserve the Presi- (1) by striking ‘‘October 1, 2007’’ and insert- GENERAL LEAVE dential papers, historical records, and ing ‘‘January 1, 2008’’, and Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- other artifacts of Woodrow Wilson’s (2) by inserting ‘‘or the Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2007’’ before imous consent that all Members may Presidency as we do with the previous the semicolon at the end of subparagraph have 5 legislative days within which to 11 Presidents. These libraries offer citi- (A). revise and extend their remarks and in- zens the opportunity to learn, study (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Paragraph clude extraneous material on H.R. 3540. and appreciate an important period of (2) of section 9502(f) of such Code is amended American history. I urge my colleagues by striking ‘‘October 1, 2007’’ and inserting The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there to support the passage. I applaud the ‘‘January 1, 2008’’. objection to the request of the gen- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments gentleman from Virginia (Mr. GOOD- tleman from Michigan? made by this section shall take effect on Oc- LATTE) for introducing this bill and tober 1, 2007. There was no objection. urge passage. SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF AIRPORT IMPROVEMENT Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance PROGRAM. self such time as I may consume. of my time. (a) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3540 extends the fi- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, if (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 48103 of title 49, my history serves me right, President United States Code, is amended— nancing and spending authority of the Woodrow Wilson did not hold an elect- (A) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of para- Airport and Airway trust fund. ed public office prior to becoming graph (3); The trust fund taxes and spending au- President of the United States of (B) by striking the period at the end of thority are scheduled to expire on Oc- America, which I think is indeed a feat paragraph (4) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and tober 1, 2007. H.R. 3540 extends these (C) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- in and of itself. So I want to commend lowing: taxes at current rates for 3 months. the gentleman from Virginia for his in- ‘‘(5) $918,750,000 for the 3-month period be- H.R. 3540 was unanimously reported troduction of this legislation, and urge ginning October 1, 2007.’’. out of the Ways and Means Committee its support. (2) OBLIGATION OF AMOUNTS.—Sums made with bipartisan support. This bill will Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance available pursuant to the amendment made keep the Airport and Airway trust fund of my time. by paragraph (1) may be obligated at any taxes and operations in place until the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time through September 30, 2008, and shall long-term FAA Reauthorization Act is question is on the motion offered by remain available until expended. signed into law. the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. (b) PROJECT GRANT AUTHORITY.—Section 47104(c) of such title is amended by striking CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE COST DAVIS) that the House suspend the ‘‘September 30, 2007,’’ and inserting ‘‘Decem- ESTIMATE—SEPTEMBER 21, 2007 rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1664. ber 31, 2007,’’. H.R. 3540 The question was taken; and (two- SEC. 5. EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY TO LIMIT thirds being in the affirmative) the THIRD PARTY LIABILITY OF AIR Federal Aviation Administration Exten- rules were suspended and the bill was CARRIERS ARISING OUT OF ACTS OF sion Act of 2007—As ordered reported by the passed. TERRORISM. House Committee on Ways and Means on A motion to reconsider was laid on Section 44303(b) of title 49, United States September 18, 2007 the table. Code, is amended by striking ‘‘December 31, 2006’’ and inserting ‘‘December 31, 2007’’. Summary: H.R. 3540 would extend, through f SEC. 6. FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION OP- the end of calendar year 2007, the existing ERATIONS. taxes that are dedicated to the Airport and FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRA- Airway Trust Fund and are set to expire on TION EXTENSION ACT OF 2007 Section 106(k)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended— September 30, 2007. The Joint Committee on Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I move to (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- Taxation (JCT) estimates that enacting H.R. suspend the rules and pass the bill graph (C); 3540 would have no effect on revenues rel- (H.R. 3540) to amend the Internal Rev- (2) by striking the period at the end of sub- ative to the current baseline projection for taxes dedicated to the trust fund. enue Code of 1986 to extend the funding paragraph (D) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and and expenditure authority of the Air- (3) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the The bill also would extend, through the port and Airway Trust Fund, as amend- following: end of calendar year 2007, the authority to ‘‘(E) such sums as may be necessary for the expend amounts from the trust fund (includ- ed. 3-month period beginning October 1, 2007.’’. ing interest) for major programs adminis- The Clerk read the title of the bill. SEC. 7. AIR NAVIGATION FACILITIES AND EQUIP- tered by the Federal Aviation Administra- The text of the bill is as follows: MENT. tion (FAA). CBO estimates that imple- H.R. 3540 Section 48101(a) of title 49, United States menting the bill would increase discre- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Code, is amended— tionary spending by $3.1 billion over the resentatives of the United States of America in (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of para- 2008–2012 period by authorizing appropriation Congress assembled, graph (3); of revenues expected to be collected during

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:06 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.037 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10719 the first three months of fiscal year 2008. En- dates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates costs of this legislation fall within budget acting the bill would not affect direct spend- Reform Act (UMRA). function 400 (transportation). ing. Estimated costs to the Federal Govern- JCT has determined that the bill contains ment: The estimated budgetary impact of no intergovernmental or private-sector man- H.R. 3540 is shown in the following table. The

By fiscal year, in millions of dollars— 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION Spending from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund under Current Law: Authorization Level 1 ...... 11,846 0 0 0 0 0 Estimated Outlays ...... 12,310 4,714 1,944 744 214 35 Proposed Changes: Estimated Authorization Level 2 ...... 0 3,091 0 0 0 0 Estimated Outlays ...... 0 2,782 278 31 0 0 Spending from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund under H.R. 3540: Estimated Authorization Level ...... 11,846 3.091 0 0 0 0 Estimated Outlays ...... 12,310 7,496 2,222 775 214 35 1 The 2007 level is the amount of discretionary budgetary resources provided from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund for that year for major FAA programs. Discretionary budgetary resources include appropriations for FAA operations, fa- cilities and equipment, and research programs as well as limitations on the obligations of contract authority for the Airport Improvement Program. It does not include additional amounts appropriated to the FAA from the General Fund. 2 The estimated level is for one-quarter of fiscal year 2008. If funded for the full year, that amount would total approximately $12.4 billion.

Basis of estimate: For this estimate, JCT Estimate approved by: Peter H. Fontaine, the Ways and Means Committee, as and CBO assume that H.R. 3540 will be en- Assistant Director for Budget Analysis; G. well as the ranking member of the acted near the start of fiscal year 2008 and Thomas Woodward, Assistant Director for Transportation and Infrastructure that appropriation actions consistent with Tax Analysis. Committee, Mr. MICA, and Mr. PETRI, the bill will be taken in fiscal year 2008. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of REVENUES the ranking member of the sub- my time. committee. The existing excise taxes that are dedi- Mr. HULSHOF. Mr. Speaker, I yield cated to the Airport and Airway Trust Fund myself such time as I may consume. Last Thursday, the House passed are scheduled to expire on September 30, Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. H.R. 2881, the FAA Reauthorization 2007. The taxes consist of levies on transpor- tation of persons and property by air, use of 3540, the Federal Aviation Administra- Act of 2007, a long-term authorization international air facilities, and use of avia- tion Extension Act of 2007. As the gen- of the FAA programs. However, until tion fuels and are estimated to generate rev- tleman, my colleague on the Ways and H.R. 2881 is signed into law, it is imper- enues of over $11 billion in fiscal year 2007. Means Committee, indicated, this bill ative that we not allow the FAA’s crit- The bill would extend all of the taxes at the is a 3-month extension of the excise ical programs to lapse. This legislation current rate through the end of calendar taxes that currently fund the Airport before us today would extend the avia- year 2007. Under the projection rules in section 257 of and Airway trust fund. tion trust fund taxes for an additional the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Time is of the essence, as the Speak- 3 months at their current rate. Control Act, which are followed for Congres- er knows, as these taxes are due to ex- During our last funding debate 10 sional scorekeeping purposes, estimates of pire at the end of the month, and it is the revenue effects of the legislation assume years ago, there was a lapse in the imperative that we do not cut off this aviation taxes. At that time, the un- that expiring excise taxes dedicated to a source of funding that benefits our Na- trust fund are extended indefinitely and are committed balance of the trust fund measured relative to a baseline that assumes tion’s airports and the aviation com- was sufficient to continue funding our that the expiring excise taxes are extended munity, as well as the tens of thou- aviation program and services without at the same rates that would be in place im- sands of airline passengers. I see my significant disruption to the system. mediately before their scheduled expiration. colleague from Illinois nodding, and we As a result, JCT estimates no change in rev- Today we do not have that luxury. The shared a plane ride here moments ago. trust fund balances cannot sustain a enue from the three-month extension in this In addition, there has been a lot of long-term lapse in taxes, which is why bill. discussion about a way to reformulate it is critical that we pass this legisla- SPENDING SUBJECT TO APPROPRIATION the way we fund the trust fund. There By extending, through the first three tion before us today. have been some interesting ideas ban- months of fiscal year 2008, the authority to In addition to extending the aviation expend amounts from the Airport and Air- died about by different points of view. way Trust Fund, CBO estimates that the bill This temporary extension allows us taxes, H.R. 3540 extends the Airport Im- would authorize appropriations of the that additional time to consider some provement Program. Because the AIP amounts that CBO estimates would be depos- fundamental reforms to the tax struc- is funded by contract authority rather ited in the fund during that three-month pe- ture that finances the Airport and Air- than discretionary appropriations, riod—about $3.1 billion. Assuming appropria- way trust fund and to spend some more funding for it is not automatically ex- tion action consistent with the bill, CBO es- tended by continuing resolutions. H.R. timates that implementing H.R. 3540 would time studying the NextGen air traffic increase discretionary spending by $3.1 bil- control modernization proposal before 3540 creates $918.75 million in AIP con- lion over the 2008–2012 period. (If the funding we move towards conference with the tract authority to fund the programs were authorized for the entire fiscal year, it Senate to consider FAA reauthoriza- for the next 3 months from October 1, would yield a total annualized amount of tion. 2007 through December 31, 2007. When $12.4 billion.) As the gentleman from Michigan annualized, this equates to $3.675 bil- Intergovernmental and private-sector im- pointed out, this bill was reported out lion for the full fiscal year of 2008, pact: JCT has determined that the bill con- tains no intergovernmental or private-sector of our committee by voice vote. Since which is the current baseline level for mandates as defined in UMRA. it extends to the end of the calendar this program. This will ensure that air- Previous CBO estimate: On September 18, year the existing taxes dedicated to the port funding is not interrupted due to a 2007, CBO transmitted a cost estimate for trust fund, there is no effect on reve- lapse in the AIP authorization. H.R. 3539, the Airport and Airway Trust nues as we extend the current baseline. This is not the first time we have Fund Financing Act of 2007, as ordered re- I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘yes’’ on ported by the House Committee on Ways and passed a short-term extension. In 1999 Means on September 18, 2007. Differences in the bill. and 2000, as Congress was debating JCT’s estimates of revenues result from pro- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of what eventually became the Wendell H. visions in H.R. 3539 that would increase the my time. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield such excise tax rates on noncommercial aviation- Act for the 21st Century, or AIR–21, we time as he may consume to my distin- grade kerosene and aviation gasoline. JCT passed four extensions of the FAA’s also determined that increasing the tax rate guished colleague, the gentleman from contract authority. on aviation-grade kerosene would impose a Illinois (Mr. COSTELLO). private-sector mandate as defined in UMRA. Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise For FAA’s operations, facilities and In addition, CBO’s estimate of discretionary today in support of H.R. 3540, the FAA equipment, and research and develop- spending under H.R. 3539 reflects the four- ment programs, the bill authorizes the year authorization contained in that bill. Extension Act of 2007. Estimate prepared by: Federal Revenues: I want to thank Chairman RANGEL, appropriation of such sums as may be Barbara Edwards; Federal Spending: Megan Ranking Member MCCRERY, and my necessary for a 3-month period of this Carroll. friends from Michigan and Missouri on extension.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:06 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.020 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10720 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 Finally, current law allows the Sec- The current authorization for aviation pro- the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. retary to limit to $100 million the grams and taxes expires on September 30, LEVIN) that the House suspend the third-party liability exposure of air- 2007. Last week, the House overwhelmingly rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3540, as lines and aircraft manufacturers for passed H.R. 2881, the ‘‘FAA Reauthorization amended. any cause resulting from a terrorist Act of 2007,’’ to reauthorize the aviation pro- The question was taken; and (two- event. This authority expires on Sep- grams for four years. Until this long-term reau- thirds being in the affirmative) the tember 30, 2007. The legislation before thorization bill can be signed into law, there rules were suspended and the bill, as us today extends this authority to De- are a few critical provisions that must not be amended, was passed. cember 31 of this year. allowed to lapse at the end of this week. The title was amended so as to read: Aviation is too important to our Na- These important provisions are extended in ‘‘A bill to amend the Internal Revenue tion’s economy, contributing $1.2 tril- H.R. 3540, the bill before us today. Code of 1986 to extend the funding and lion in output and approximately 11.4 I strongly support the extension of the avia- expenditure authority of the Airport million U.S. jobs. It is too important to tion excise taxes as proposed in H.R. 3540. and Airway Trust Fund, and for other allow for any lapse of taxes or funding These taxes are necessary to support the Air- purposes.’’. for critical aviation programs. Until port and Airway Trust Fund, which in recent A motion to reconsider was laid on H.R. 2881 is signed into law, we must years has provided about 80 percent of the the table. ensure that the FAA has the funds it Federal Aviation Administration’s budget. With f needs to continue its vital programs. an uncommitted cash balance of less than $2 Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3540 provides a billion, any lapse in the aviation taxes could RECOGNIZING ESTABLISHMENT OF short 3-month extension to ensure put the solvency of the Trust Fund at risk. HUNTERS FOR THE HUNGRY FAA’s programs remain fully funded, In addition to extending the aviation taxes, PROGRAMS and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3540 extends the Airport Improvement Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I move this legislation. Program. Because the Airport Improvement to suspend the rules and agree to the Mr. HULSHOF. Mr. Speaker, I am Program is funded by contract authority, rather resolution (H. Res. 79) recognizing the pleased to yield such time as he may than discretionary appropriations, funding for it establishment of Hunters for the Hun- consume to the gentleman from Wis- is not automatically extended by Continuing gry programs across the United States consin (Mr. PETRI), the ranking mem- Resolutions. H.R. 3540 creates $918.75 mil- and the contributions of those pro- ber of the Aviation Subcommittee. lion in Airport Improvement Program contract grams efforts to decrease hunger and Mr. PETRI. Mr. Speaker, I thank my authority to fund the program for the three- help feed those in need. colleague from Missouri. month period from October 1, 2007, to De- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Last week, Members of this body con- cember 31, 2007. This amount, when tion. sidered and passed the FAA Reauthor- annualized, equals the fiscal year 2007 The text of the resolution is as fol- ization Act of 2007, H.R. 2881, which re- amount for the program ($3.675 billion). This lows: authorized the FAA for the next 4 provision will ensure that airport funding is not H. RES. 79 years. interrupted because of a lapse in the Airport Whereas Hunters for the Hungry programs Unfortunately, the authority of the Improvement Program’s authorization. FAA’s programs and taxes expires this are cooperative efforts among hunters, The bill also authorizes the appropriation of sportsmen’s associations, meat processors, Sunday, September 30. As it is unlikely such sums as may be necessary for Federal Congress will be able to send a FAA re- State meat inspectors, and hunger relief or- Aviation Administration Operations, Facilities ganizations to help feed those in need; authorization bill to the President for and Equipment, and Research and Develop- Whereas during the past three years Hunt- signature before the September 30 ment programs for the three-month period of ers for the Hungry programs have brought deadline, we have before us H.R. 3540, the extension. hundreds of thousands of pounds of venison the Federal Aviation Administration Finally, current law allows the Secretary to to homeless shelters, soup kitchens, and food Extension Act of 2007, to extend the limit to $100 million the third-party liability ex- banks; and funding and expenditure authority of posure of airlines and aircraft manufacturers Whereas each year donations have multi- the FAA for the next 90 days through for any cause resulting from a terrorist event. plied as Hunters for the Hungry programs the end of this year. continue to feed those in need: Now, there- This authority expires September 30, 2007. fore, be it H.R. 3540 provides 3 months of AIP H.R. 3540 extends this authority to December contract authority at the budget 2007 Resolved, That the House of Representa- 31, 2007. tives— level, authorizes such sums as are nec- In summary, this bill simply continues avia- (1) recognizes the cooperative efforts of essary for FAA facilities and equip- tion programs and financing under the same hunters, sportsmen’s associations, meat ment, research and development, and terms and conditions as current law. It en- processors, State meat inspectors, and hun- operations for 3 months and extends sures that these important programs continue ger relief organizations to establish Hunters the authority to limit the third-party to operate without any interruption. for the Hungry programs across the United States; and liability of air carriers arising out of I thank Chairman RANGEL and Ranking (2) recognizes the contributions of Hunters acts of terrorism for 3 months. Member MCCRERY of the Committee on Ways Most importantly, the bill will en- for the Hungry programs to efforts to de- and Means for working with the Committee on crease hunger and help feed those in need. sure that our national aviation system Transportation and Infrastructure to include The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- continues to operate until a full FAA the aviation authorization provisions in H.R. ant to the rule, the gentleman from reauthorization can be enacted. 3540. I also thank my Committee colleagues, California (Mr. CARDOZA) and the gen- There is much work yet to be done on Ranking Member MICA, Subcommittee Chair- tleman from Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) the reauthorization bill. We must work man COSTELLO, and Subcommittee Ranking each will control 20 minutes. in a bipartisan and bicameral fashion Member PETRI, for working with me on this The Chair recognizes the gentleman to craft legislation that our President critical legislation. can sign. That’s our task. That is what I look forward to Senate passage of its long- from California. the communities involved and our con- term FAA reauthorization bill and sending a Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield stituents expect of us. bill to the President in the coming months. myself such time as I may consume. I support this clean 3-month exten- I urge my colleagues to join me in sup- Mr. Speaker, I come before the House sion, and I appreciate the efforts of my porting H.R. 3540. today to encourage passage of House colleagues on the Ways and Means Mr. HULSHOF. We have no other Resolution 79, recognizing the estab- Committee for drafting and intro- speakers remaining, and I urge my col- lishment of Hunters for the Hungry ducing H.R. 3540, and look forward to leagues to vote ‘‘yes,’’ and I yield back programs across the United States and working with them as we continue con- the balance of my time. recognizing the contributions of those sideration of the FAA reauthorization Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, there being programs to decrease hunger and help bill. no further requests on this side of the feed those in need. Mr. OBERSTAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise in aisle, I yield back the balance of my Hunters for the Hungry is a unique strong support of H.R. 3540, the ‘‘Federal time. and innovative program that addresses Aviation Administration Extension Act of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The hunger in communities nationwide. 2007.’’ question is on the motion offered by Hunters can donate their game and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.041 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10721 fowl to Hunters for the Hungry which Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of One such organization, Mr. Speaker, processes the meat and provides it to my time. in my district is Pure Cuts Deer Proc- food banks and other feeding programs. Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I con- essing in Floyd County. Nick Ballinger This cooperative effort between hunt- tinue to reserve. operates this volunteer effort, and it ers, processors, and the hunger commu- Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, at feeds thousands of hungry people in nity is an innovative example of how this time it’s my pleasure to yield to northwest Georgia. He’s always open to groups can work together toward a sin- the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. both financial contributions and veni- gle worthy goal. GINGREY) such time as he may con- son donations so that he can expand This legislation received unanimous sume. the organization and feed more people support in the House Agriculture Com- Mr. GINGREY. Mr. Speaker, I want annually. Nick is just one of many mittee, and I strongly encourage pas- to thank Chairman PETERSON and kindhearted hunters who donate their sage of this bill. Ranking Member GOODLATTE, my good time and money for those in need. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of friend from California (Mr. CARDOZA), Mr. Speaker, I once again ask the my time. my classmate, and all the members on House to speak in one voice of grati- the Agriculture Committee for bring- b 1545 tude and urge passage of the Hunters ing this resolution to the floor today for the Hungry resolution to honor this Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I during the inaugural Congressional great community service. yield myself such time as I may con- Sportsmen’s Week. Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield sume, and I rise in support of H. Res. 79 I also want to thank the Congres- myself such time as I may consume, and applaud this body for recognizing sional Sportsmen’s Caucus, under the and I’d like to rise to congratulate my the collaborative efforts of hunters, leadership of co-chairs RON KIND of colleague, Mr. GINGREY from Georgia, sportsmen’s associations, meat proc- Wisconsin and PAUL RYAN of Wis- on this legislation, and also thank my essors, State meat inspectors and hun- consin, during this Congress. This bi- colleague and friend Mr. GOODLATTE for ger relief associations to establish partisan organization, comprised of managing it on the Republican side. Hunters for the Hungry programs close to 300 Members of the House and Our chairman on the Democratic across the U.S. Senate, focuses on protecting the inter- side, Mr. PETERSON, is an avid hunter When a hunter donates a deer, it is ests of our Nation’s sportsmen. As a and, I’d like to say, a very successful processed by professional meat cutters proud member of the Congressional one as well. I know he wants to extend at inspected facilities. The meat is Sportsmen’s Caucus, I know that it his gratitude for this bill and totally then packaged, frozen and distributed works diligently for our sportsmen who supports it. to food banks, soup kitchens, church have historically shaped the character Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of food pantries, the Salvation Army and and the quality of America’s cultural my time. other nonprofit organizations serving heritage, natural resources and eco- Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I the States’ hungry. Funds are raised to nomic vitality. yield back the balance of my time. cover the cost of processing, distribu- Mr. Speaker, as Mr. GOODLATTE said, Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield tion and the overhead expenses of oper- I first introduced the Hunters for the back the balance of my time. ation so that the meat can be provided Hungry resolution in the 108th Con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to these agencies at no cost. Through gress to bring attention to an often question is on the motion offered by the program, food banks and soup overlooked group, our Nation’s hunt- the gentleman from California (Mr. kitchens are provided with a low-fat, ers, who help feed thousands of home- CARDOZA) that the House suspend the high-protein meat that may not other- less and hungry people each year. The rules and agree to the resolution, H. wise be available. purpose of this resolution is to praise Res. 79. In my own State of Virginia, the Vir- the work of Hunters for Hungry pro- The question was taken; and (two- ginia Hunters for the Hungry program grams across our country. These pro- thirds being in the affirmative) the has distributed over 2.3 million pounds grams provide a unique way in which rules were suspended and the resolu- of venison since its establishment in to address our Nation’s hunger prob- tion was agreed to. 1991. In the first year, roughly 33,000 lem. A motion to reconsider was laid on pounds of venison was donated, proc- Although these organizations are the table. essed and distributed through the pro- called by different names across the f gram. Now, the average exceeds 300,000 country, Hunters for the Hungry orga- pounds a year, and this program is a nizations show the humanitarian and GENERAL LEAVE reflection of the generosity of the the kindhearted spirit of our Nation’s Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I ask American spirit. hunting community. These programs unanimous consent that all Members I commend the generosity of Virginia are volunteer and cooperative efforts have 5 legislative days within which to hunters and all who participate in the among hunters, sportsmen’s associa- revise and extend their remarks on the Hunters for the Hungry program, tions, meat processors, State meat in- resolution just considered. whose contributions are a step in the spectors and hunger relief organiza- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there right direction in the fight against tions. objection to the request of the gen- hunger. Over the past 3 years, these programs tleman from California? Mr. Speaker, let me say on a personal have brought hundreds of thousands of There was no objection. note that I have had the pleasure of pounds of excess venison to homeless f supporting this organization for sev- shelters, soup kitchens and food banks. eral years now, and just recently, a few Each year, donations have multiplied, PESTICIDE REGISTRATION weeks ago, attended a Hunters for the and many programs now cannot even IMPROVEMENT RENEWAL ACT Hungry banquet, at which the spirit of cover the costs of processing, pack- Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I move not just hunters but people who are aging, storing and distributing the to suspend the rules and pass the Sen- generous and want to take care of the abundant supply of donated venison. ate bill (S. 1983) to amend the Federal needs of those who can use additional Hunters for the Hungry organizations Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide sustenance and I think in a very effi- serve as a great example of how our Act to renew and amend the provisions cient way have participated in this pro- Nation can address issues like hunger for the enhanced review of covered pes- gram and showed that generosity once without government intervention. ticide products, to authorize fees for more. These organizations receive no Federal certain pesticide products, to extend So I commend all those, not just in funds, and they operate from donations and improve the collection of mainte- Virginia but across the country, who and volunteer service. We must raise nance fees, and for other purposes. participate in this, and I particularly the awareness of these organizations so The Clerk read the title of the Senate commend the gentleman from Georgia they can have the resources and the bill. (Mr. GINGREY) who has fostered this volunteers to serve America’s under- The text of the Senate bill is as fol- legislation. privileged. lows:

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S. 1983 (b) AMOUNTS FOR REGISTRANTS.—Section ‘‘(iii) after review of the application, the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- 4(i)(5) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, Administrator determines that a different resentatives of the United States of America in and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136a–1(i)(5) is registration service fee and decision review Congress assembled, amended— period apply to the application. (1) in subparagraph (D)— ‘‘(F) EFFECT OF FAILURE TO PAY FEES.—The SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (A) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘shall be’’ and Administrator shall reject any application This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Pesticide all that follows through the end of subclause submitted without the required registration Registration Improvement Renewal Act’’. (IV) and inserting ‘‘shall be $71,000 for each service fee. SEC. 2. REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS. of fiscal years 2008 through 2012; and’’; and ‘‘(G) NON-REFUNDABLE PORTION OF FEES.— Section 3(c)(3)(B)(ii) of the Federal Insecti- (B) in clause (ii), by striking ‘‘shall be’’ ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall cide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 and all that follows through the end of sub- retain 25 percent of the applicable registra- U.S.C. 136a(c)(3)(B)(ii)) is amended— clause (IV) and inserting ‘‘shall be $123,000 tion service fee. (1) in subparagraph (I), by striking ‘‘within for each of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.’’; ‘‘(ii) LIMITATION.—Any waiver, refund, 45 days’’ and all that follows through ‘‘and,’’ and credit or other reduction in the registration and inserting ‘‘review the application in ac- (2) in subparagraph (E)(i)— service fee shall not exceed 75 percent of the cordance with section 33(f)(4)(B) and,’’; and (A) in subclause (I), by striking ‘‘shall be’’ registration service fee. (2) in subparagraph (II), by striking ‘‘with- and all that follows through the end of item ‘‘(H) COLLECTION OF UNPAID FEES.—In any in’’ and inserting ‘‘not later than the appli- (dd) and inserting ‘‘shall be $50,000 for each case in which the Administrator does not re- cable decision review time established pursu- of fiscal years 2008 through 2012; and’’; and ceive payment of a registration service fee ant to section 33(f)(4)(B), or, if no review (B) in subclause (II), by striking ‘‘shall be’’ (or applicable portion of the registration time is established, not later than’’. and all that follows through the end of item service fee) by the date that is 30 days after SEC. 3. REGISTRATION REVIEW. (dd) and inserting ‘‘shall be $86,000 for each the fee is due, the fee shall be treated as a Section 3(g)(1) of the Federal Insecticide, of fiscal years 2008 through 2012.’’. claim of the United States Government sub- Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. (c) EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR COL- ject to subchapter II of chapter 37 of title 31, 136a(g)(1)) is amended— LECTING MAINTENANCE FEES.—Section United States Code.’’. (1) in subparagraph (A)— 4(i)(5)(H) of the Federal Insecticide, Fun- gicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136a– (b) AMOUNT OF FEES.—Section 33(b) of the (A) in the first sentence, by striking ‘‘The 1(i)(5)(H) is amended by striking ‘‘2008’’ and Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and registrations’’ and inserting the following: inserting ‘‘2012.’’ Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(b)) is ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The registrations’’; (d) OTHER FEES.— amended— (B) in the second sentence, by striking (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 4(i)(6) of the Fed- (1) in paragraph (3)— ‘‘The Administrator’’ and inserting the fol- eral Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘Pes- lowing: Act (7 U.S.C. 136a–1(i)(6)) is amended by ticide Registration Improvement Act of ‘‘(ii) REGULATIONS.—In accordance with striking ‘‘2010’’ and inserting ‘‘2014’’. 2003’’ and inserting ‘‘Pesticide Registration this subparagraph, the Administrator’’; and (2) PROHIBITION ON TOLERANCE FEES.—Sec- Improvement Renewal Act’’; and (C) by striking ‘‘The goal’’ and all that fol- tion 408(m) of the Federal Food, Drug, and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking lows through ‘‘No registration’’ and insert- Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 346a(m)) is amended ‘‘S11631’’ and all that follows through the end ing the following: by adding at the end the following: of the subparagraph and inserting ‘‘S10409 ‘‘(iii) INITIAL REGISTRATION REVIEW.—The ‘‘(3) PROHIBITION.—During the period begin- through S10411, dated July 31, 2007.’’; and Administrator shall complete the registra- ning on the effective date of the Pesticide (2) by striking paragraph (6) and inserting tion review of each pesticide or pesticide Registration Improvement Renewal Act and the following: case, which may be composed of 1 or more ending on September 30, 2012, the Adminis- ‘‘(6) FEE ADJUSTMENT.— active ingredients and the products associ- trator shall not collect any tolerance fees ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Effective for a covered ated with the active ingredients, not later under paragraph (1).’’. pesticide registration application received than the later of— (e) REREGISTRATION AND EXPEDITED PROC- during the period beginning on October 1, ‘‘(I) October 1, 2022; or ESSING FUND.— 2008, and ending on September 30, 2010, the ‘‘(II) the date that is 15 years after the date (1) SOURCE AND USE.—Section 4(k)(2)(A) of Administrator shall increase by 5 percent on which the first pesticide containing a new the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and the registration service fee payable for the active ingredient is registered. Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136a–1(k)(2)(A)) is application under paragraph (3). ‘‘(iv) SUBSEQUENT REGISTRATION REVIEW.— amended— ‘‘(B) ADDITIONAL ADJUSTMENT.—Effective Not later than 15 years after the date on (A) in the first sentence, by inserting ‘‘and for a covered pesticide registration applica- which the initial registration review is com- to offset the costs of registration review tion received on or after October 1, 2010, the pleted under clause (iii) and each 15 years under section 3(g)’’ after ‘‘paragraph (3)’’; Administrator shall increase by an addi- thereafter, the Administrator shall complete (B) in clause (i), by inserting ‘‘and to offset tional 5 percent the registration service fee a subsequent registration review for each the costs of registration review under sec- in effect as of September 30, 2010. pesticide or pesticide case. tion 3(g)’’ after ‘‘paragraph (3)’’; and ‘‘(C) PUBLICATION.—The Administrator ‘‘(v) CANCELLATION.—No registration’’; (C) in clause (ii), by inserting ‘‘and to off- shall publish in the Federal Register the re- (2) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as set the costs of registration review under vised registration service fee schedules.’’. subparagraph (C); and section 3(g)’’ after ‘‘paragraph (3)’’. (c) WAIVERS AND REDUCTIONS.—Section (3) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the (2) EXPEDITED PROCESSING OF SIMILAR AP- following: 33(b)(7)(F) of the Federal Insecticide, Fun- PLICATIONS.—Section 4(k)(3)(A) of the Fed- gicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w– ‘‘(B) DOCKETING.— eral Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide 8(b)(7)(F)) is amended— ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Subject to clause (ii), Act (7 U.S.C. 136a–1(k)(3)(A)) is amended by after meeting with 1 or more individuals (1) in clause (ii), by striking ‘‘all’’ and in- striking ‘‘2007 and 2008’’ and inserting ‘‘2008 serting ‘‘75 percent’’; and that are not government employees to dis- through 2012’’. cuss matters relating to a registration re- (2) in clause (iv)(II), by striking ‘‘all’’ and SEC. 5. PESTICIDE REGISTRATION SERVICE FEES. inserting ‘‘75 percent of the applicable.’’. view, the Administrator shall place in the (a) DOCUMENTATION.—Section 33(b)(2) of the docket minutes of the meeting, a list of Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and (d) REFUNDS.—Section 33(b)(8)(A) of the attendees, and any documents exchanged at Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(b)(2)) is Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and the meeting, not later than the earlier of— amended— Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(b)(8)(A)) is ‘‘(I) the date that is 45 days after the meet- (1) in subparagraph (C), by striking clause amended by striking ‘‘10 percent’’ and insert- ing; or (ii) and inserting the following: ing ‘‘25 percent.’’. ‘‘(II) the date of issuance of the registra- ‘‘(ii) payment of at least 25 percent of the (e) PESTICIDE REGISTRATION FUND.—Section tion review decision. registration service fee and a request for a 33(c) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, ‘‘(ii) PROTECTED INFORMATION.—The Admin- waiver from or reduction of the remaining and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(c)) is istrator shall identify, but not include in the amount of the registration service fee.’’; and amended— docket, any confidential business informa- (2) by adding at the end the following: (1) in paragraph (1)(B), by striking ‘‘para- tion the disclosure of which is prohibited by ‘‘(D) PAYMENT.—The registration service graph (4)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph (5)’’; section 10.’’. fee required under this subsection shall be (2) in paragraph (3)— SEC. 4. MAINTENANCE FEES. due upon submission of the application. (A) by striking subparagraph (B) and in- (a) TOTAL AMOUNT OF FEES.—Section ‘‘(E) APPLICATIONS SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL serting the following: 4(i)(5)(C) of the Federal Insecticide, Fun- FEES.—An application may be subject to ad- ‘‘(B) WORKER PROTECTION.— gicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136a– ditional fees if— ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For each of fiscal years 1(i)(5)(C)) is amended by striking ‘‘amount ‘‘(i) the applicant identified the incorrect 2008 through 2012, the Administrator shall of’’ and all that follows through the end of registration service fee and decision review use approximately 1⁄17 of the amount in the clause (v) and inserting ‘‘amount of period; Fund (but not less than $1,000,000) to enhance $22,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2008 ‘‘(ii) after review of a waiver request, the scientific and regulatory activities relating through 2012’’. Administrator denies the waiver request; or to worker protection.

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‘‘(ii) PARTNERSHIP GRANTS.—Of the (ii) by inserting after clause (i) the fol- SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. amounts in the Fund, the Administrator lowing: This Act and the amendments made by shall use for partnership grants— ‘‘(ii) the number of label amendments that this Act take effect on October 1, 2007. ‘‘(I) for each of fiscal years 2008 and 2009, have been reviewed using electronic means; The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- $750,000; and ‘‘(iii) the amount of money from the Rereg- ant to the rule, the gentleman from ‘‘(II) for each of fiscal years 2010 through istration and Expedited Processing Fund 2012, $500,000. used to carry out inert ingredient review and California (Mr. CARDOZA) and the gen- ‘‘(iii) PESTICIDE SAFETY EDUCATION PRO- review of similar applications under section tleman from Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) GRAM.—Of the amounts in the Fund, the Ad- 4(k)(3); each will control 20 minutes. ministrator shall use $500,000 for each of fis- ‘‘(iv) the number of applications completed The Chair recognizes the gentleman cal years 2008 through 2012 to carry out the for identical or substantially similar appli- from California. pesticide safety education program.’’; and cations under section 3(c)(3)(B), including Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I yield (B) by striking subparagraph (C); and the number of such applications completed myself such time as I may consume. (3) in paragraph (5)— within 90 days pursuant to that section;’’; Mr. Speaker, I come before the House and (A) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) today to encourage passage of S. 1983, through (C) as clauses (i) through (iii), re- (iii) in clause (vi) (as redesignated by spectively; clause (i))— the Pesticide Registration Improve- (B) by striking ‘‘Amounts’’ and inserting (I) in subclause (II), by striking ‘‘and’’ at ment Renewal Act. This reauthoriza- the following: the end; tion will ensure continued, stable EPA ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Amounts’’; and (II) in subclause (III), by striking ‘‘and’’ at funding for pesticide registration pro- (C) by adding at the end the following: the end; and grams, provide predictable timelines ‘‘(B) USE OF INVESTMENT INCOME.—After (III) by adding at the end the following: for industry, and support the introduc- consultation with the Secretary of the ‘‘(IV) providing for electronic submission and review of labels, including process im- tion of new and safer products for con- Treasury, the Administrator may use income sumers that are better for the environ- from investments described in clauses (ii) provements to further enhance the proce- and (iii) of subparagraph (A) to carry out dures used in electronic label review; and ment. this section.’’. ‘‘(V) the allowance and use of summaries of This legislation received extensive acute toxicity studies; and’’; (f) ASSESSMENT OF FEES.—Section 33(d)(2) input and strong support from a unique of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘and’’ alliance of the pesticides industry and at the end; Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(d)(2)) is the environmental community. S. 1983 (C) in subparagraph (C), by striking the pe- amended by striking ‘‘For fiscal years 2004, builds on the success of the Pesticide riod at the end and inserting a semicolon; 2005 and 2006 only, registration’’ and insert- and Registration Improvement Act of 2003 ing ‘‘Registration’’. (D) by adding at the end the following: and deserves to be passed with the (g) DECISION REVIEW TIMES.—Section 33(f) ‘‘(D) a review of the progress in carrying unanimous consent of this Chamber. of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and out section 3(g), including— Mr. Speaker, there are a few points I Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(f)) is ‘‘(i) the number of pesticides or pesticide would like to clarify regarding the text amended— cases reviewed; (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘Pesticide of this legislation. Regarding section 5, ‘‘(ii) a description of the staffing and re- the summaries of acute toxicity stud- Registration Improvement Act of 2003’’ and sources relating to the costs associated with inserting ‘‘Pesticide Registration Improve- the review and decision making relating to ies shall be based on real data to fur- ment Renewal Act’’; reregistration and registration review for ther protect public health and the envi- (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘S11631’’ compliance with the deadlines specified in ronment, and acute toxicity studies and all that follows through the end of the this Act; shall be conducted in a manner which paragraph and inserting ‘‘S10409 through ‘‘(iii) to the extent determined appropriate accomplishes that goal. The summaries S10411, dated July 31, 2007.’’; and by the Administrator and consistent with (3) in paragraph (4), by striking subpara- of the acute toxicity studies are in- the authorities of the Administrator and tended to supplement the full submis- graph (B) and inserting the following: limitations on delegation of functions by the ‘‘(B) COMPLETENESS OF APPLICATION.— Administrator, recommendations for— sion of data from the registrants, not ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 21 days ‘‘(I) process improvements in the handling to replace that data. Registrants must after receiving an application and the re- of registration review under section 3(g); still provide a full submission of acute quired registration service fee, the Adminis- ‘‘(II) providing for accreditation of outside toxicity data in their registration ap- trator shall conduct an initial screening of reviewers and the use of outside reviewers in plication. the contents of the application in accordance the registration review process; and There are three errors in the chart with clause (iii). ‘‘(III) streamlining the registration review printed in the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD ‘‘(ii) REJECTION.—If the Administrator de- process, consistent with section 3(g); termines under clause (i) that the applica- of July 31, 2007: The registration serv- ‘‘(E) a review of the progress in meeting ice fee for new category No. 133 should tion does not pass the initial screening and the timeline requirements for the review of cannot be corrected within the 21-day period, antimicrobial pesticide products under sec- be $78,750, rather than $278,250; the de- the Administrator shall reject the applica- tion 3(h); and cision time for new category No. 47 in tion not later than 10 days after making the ‘‘(F) a review of the progress in carrying fiscal year 3 should be 12 months; and determination. out the review of inert ingredients, including the action description for the new cat- ‘‘(iii) REQUIREMENTS OF SCREENING.—In the number of applications pending, the egory No. 61 should read: ‘‘Non-food conducting an initial screening of an appli- number of new applications, the number of use; outdoor; FIFRA, subsection 2(mm) cation, the Administrator shall determine applications reviewed, staffing, and re- whether— uses (1).’’ sources devoted to the review of inert ingre- And lastly, section 3 of S. 1983 ‘‘(I)(aa) the applicable registration service dients and recommendations to improve the fee has been paid; or timeliness of review of inert ingredients.’’. amends FIFRA to add, among other ‘‘(bb) at least 25 percent of the applicable (i) TERMINATION OF EFFECTIVENESS.—Sec- provisions, a new section that is in- registration service fee has been paid and the tion 33(m) of the Federal Insecticide, Fun- tended to reflect EPA’s current prac- application contains a waiver or refund re- gicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 U.S.C. 136w– tice of identifying in the docket any in- quest for the outstanding amount and docu- 8(m)) is amended— formation claimed, but not necessarily mentation establishing the basis for the (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘2008’’ and substantiated, as confidential business waiver request; and inserting ‘‘2012’’; and information. The language in this new ‘‘(II) the application contains all the nec- (2) in paragraph (2)— essary forms, data, and draft labeling, for- (A) in subparagraph (A)— section is not intended to change matted in accordance with guidance pub- (i) in the subparagraph heading, by strik- EPA’s responsibilities or practices, lished by the Administrator.’’. ing ‘‘2009’’ and inserting ‘‘2013’’; and pursuant to other statutes, regarding (h) REPORTS.—Section 33(k) of the Federal (ii) by striking ‘‘2009’’ and inserting ‘‘2013’’; the docketing of information claimed Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and as confidential under FIFRA. (7 U.S.C. 136w–8(k)) is amended— (B) in subparagraphs (B) and (C)— With this legislation, EPA will con- (1) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘March 1, (i) in the subparagraph headings, by strik- tinue to have the resources to review 2009’’ and inserting ‘‘March 1, 2014’’; and ing ‘‘2010’’ each place it appears and inserting each pesticide product using the best (2) in paragraph (2)— ‘‘2014’’; and (A) in subparagraph (A)— (ii) by striking ‘‘2010’’ each place it appears scientific practices in a more predict- (i) by redesignating clauses (ii) through and inserting ‘‘2014’’; and able timeframe. The pesticide registra- and (iv) as clauses (v) through (vii), respec- (C) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘2008’’ tion program is a model of good gov- tively; each place it appears and inserting ‘‘2012’’. ernment because it includes systemized

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:33 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.019 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10724 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 stakeholder involvement and furthers In 2003, with the collaboration of agriculture, b 1600 the openness and transparency for pesticide manufacturers and public interest or- GENERAL LEAVE which all Federal Government pro- ganizations, Congress established a new fee grams should strive. schedule and registration process timeline for Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I ask I strongly encourage the passage of the Environmental Protection Agency, This unanimous consent that all Members this bill. Pesticide Registration Improvement Act (PRIA) may have 5 legislative days within Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of was designed to improve pesticide registration which to revise and extend their re- my time. and review, and PRIA has been extremely marks on the bill just considered. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I successful for all parties involved. yield myself such time as I may con- SIRES). Is there objection to the re- As the Ranking Member of the Agriculture quest of the gentleman from Cali- sume and rise in support of this legisla- Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Ag- tion. fornia? riculture, which has jurisdiction over pesticide There was no objection. Mr. Speaker, the legislation before us issues, I am pleased the stakeholders have f represents the efforts of several con- again worked with Congress and the EPA This stituent organizations working with bill today continues and builds upon the suc- RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVER- the administration and the Congress to cessful pesticide registration process over the SARY OF THE SEPTEMBER 25, reach consensus. next five years. 1957, DESEGREGATION OF LITTLE Among the organizations who worked Before PRIA, applicants for pesticide reg- ROCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL BY to produce this proposal were the Nat- istration had no certainty on how long the re- THE LITTLE ROCK NINE ural Resources Defense Council, Crop view process at EPA would take or how much Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I move Life America and the Consumer Spe- they would need to pay in fees. The EPA was to suspend the rules and agree to the cialty Products Association. I appre- under pressure from the public interest com- resolution (H. Res. 668) recognizing the ciate their hard work and their willing- munity to reassess tolerances for pesticides 50th anniversary of the September 25, ness to set aside past differences to de- already registered as required under the Food 1957, desegregation of Little Rock Cen- velop a fair and balanced funding Quality Protection, Act. As a result, consumers tral High School by the Little Rock mechanism for the EPA pesticide reg- who depend on effective and safe pesticide Nine. istration program that satisfies the products were not always able to take advan- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- needs of government, industry and the tage of new products. Delays impacted farm- tion. environment. ers’ ability to access improved plant protection The text of the resolution is as fol- As Chairman CARDOZA pointed out, and pest products. lows: this legislation renews the successful H. RES. 668 program established in 2004 to fund the PRIA worked because it set a firm fee schedule for pesticide registration applicants, Whereas on May 17, 1954, the United States pesticide registration program admin- Supreme Court announced in Brown v. Board istered by the Environmental Protec- giving the EPA resources needed to do re- views. In return, the EPA was held to specific of Education (347 U.S. 483) that, ‘‘in the field tion Agency. of education, the doctrine of ‘separate but The original legislation had many timelines in its reviews and approvals. PRIA equal’ has no place’’; successes including providing stable also enabled the EPA to complete tolerance Whereas the Brown decision recognized as funding for the EPA, predictable reassessments for products approved in the a matter of law that the segregation of pub- timelines for industry, new products past through product maintenance fees from lic schools deprived students of the equal for consumers, and the necessary fund- manufacturers. protection of the laws under the Fourteenth By continuing the fees and increasing reg- Amendment to the Constitution of the ing for the EPA to complete the toler- United States; ance reassessment process mandated istration funding, S. 1983 provides the EPA Whereas in 1957, three years after the land- by the Food Quality Protection Act of with the resources needed to maintain this mark Brown v. Board of Education decision, 1996. While the 2004 legislation doesn’t successful system. Additionally, the bill con- the promise of access and equality within expire until next year, the realities of tinues the periodic review of registered prod- the realm of education remained unfilled in Federal budgetary pressure and the re- ucts, requiring the EPA to reassess each Little Rock, Arkansas, and throughout the sulting uncertainty regarding the ade- product every 15 years. Nation; quacy of appropriations make imme- The pesticide registration and review proc- Whereas on September 4, 1957, nine African American students who would later be diate action on this reauthorization ess must be based on sound science. Suc- deemed the Little Rock Nine, Minnijean legislation critical. cess also requires confidence in the regulatory Brown, Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest Green, S. 1983 reauthorizes the existing pes- system. This reauthorization and enhancement Thelma Mothershed, Melba Pattillo, Gloria ticide registration program with sev- of PRIA helps ensure that the EPA is using Ray, Terrence Roberts, Jefferson Thomas, eral enhancements aimed toward clari- the best science to review applicants. and Carlotta Walls, were denied admittance fying what is covered and which activi- Timelines for reviews bring more transparency to Little Rock Central High by the Arkansas ties the fees can be used to support, to the process, and this transparency gives National Guard at the order of the Arkansas while protecting funding for certain en- confidence to pesticide users such as agri- Governor; Whereas on September 23, 1957, the Little vironmental grant programs. culture, manufacturers and the public interest Rock Nine, armed with a Federal court Again, I want to commend the groups community. order, again tried to attend Little Rock Cen- whose efforts were instrumental in pro- I urge my colleagues to support continuation tral High and implement the law of the land, ducing this legislation. I also want to of this successful regulatory process that has but protests and violence forced the group of commend Chairman PETERSON and brought effective and safe products to market students to leave the school; Subcommittee Chairman CARDOZA and not only for agriculture but for all consumers. Whereas on September 25, 1957, this Nation urge all Members to join us in sup- would realize a historic day when the Little Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I Rock Nine, escorted by Federal troops at the porting this legislation. yield back the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of order of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Mr. CARDOZA. I yield back the bal- successfully integrated Little Rock Central my time. ance of my time. High; Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I have The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Whereas throughout their tenure at Little no further Members who seek time on Rock Central High, the Little Rock Nine, my side. I just wish to also thank my question is on the motion offered by with conviction and dignity, championed colleague from Virginia for his co- the gentleman from California (Mr. school integration despite death threats, operation on working together with us CARDOZA) that the House suspend the verbal and physical assaults, school closings, to extend this program. rules and pass the Senate bill, S. 1983. and other adversities; Mr. Speaker, I reserve my time. The question was taken; and (two- Whereas the Little Rock Nine are symbolic of the victorious dismantling of school seg- Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Mr. Speaker, I rise thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the Senate regation, as well as the full and equal par- today in support of S. 1983, the Pesticide ticipation in American society that all citi- Registration Improvement Renewal Act, and bill was passed. zens are entitled to, and continue to advance encourage my colleagues to support this legis- A motion to reconsider was laid on such principles through the Little Rock Nine lation. the table. Foundation;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.047 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10725 Whereas the significance of the Little momentous Supreme Court decision of After the schools reopened in 1959, Rock Nine and their actions have been ac- 1954 that ruled the 14th amendment’s three more of the Little Rock Nine knowledged with numerous awards and rec- guarantee of equal protection prohib- would go on to graduate from Central ognitions, including the 2007 Little Rock ited segregation in the public schools. High. All of them would become pro- Central High School Desegregation 50th An- niversary Commemorative Coin, the Con- This landmark Brown v. Board of Edu- ductive, contributive members of our gressional Gold Medal in 1999, the inclusion cation decision struck down the noto- society. From social work to education of Little Rock Central High School in the rious State-sanctioned Jim Crow in the to government, the Little Rock Nine National Park System in 1998, and the des- realm of education once and for all. were and remain represented in all pro- ignation of Little Rock Central High School Unfortunately, this critical deter- fessional sectors. They have also con- as a National Historic Landmark in 1982; mination would not easily be accepted. tinued their commitment to education Whereas on the 50th anniversary of the de- It would take nine young strong and with the founding of the Little Rock segregation of Little Rock Central High determined African American students Nine Foundation, which is dedicated to School by the Little Rock Nine, the Nation to begin actually implementing the will celebrate this great civil rights achieve- providing educational opportunities to ment through forums and town halls, com- new laws of the land. These nine stu- students of color. memorations, and significantly, the dedica- dents, Minnijean Brown, Elizabeth On the 50th anniversary of the inte- tion of a permanent Little Rock Central Eckford, Ernest Green, Thelma gration of Central High by the Little High School Museum and Visitor Center; and Mothershed, Melba Pattillo, Gloria Rock Nine, I am pleased to recognize Whereas in 2007, as the Little Rock Nine Ray, Terrence Roberts, Jefferson that great progress has been made in and the entire Nation celebrates 50 years of Thomas, and Carlotta Walls, imple- education. But I must also acknowl- integration, we must acknowledge recent mented the promise of Brown v. The edge recent setbacks to the guarantee setbacks to the guarantee of opportunity and Board. In the footsteps of Rosa Parks, inclusion within our educational system, in of opportunity and inclusion within both K–12 and higher education: Now, there- these students, too, started a move- our educational system. A recent Su- fore, be it ment to dismantle years of segregation preme Court decision now severely lim- Resolved, That the House of Representa- and inequalities in our public school its school districts in their efforts to tives— systems. achieve racial balance and diversity in (1) acknowledges and commemorates the On the shoulders of Dr. Martin Lu- primary and secondary education. 50th anniversary of the desegregation of Lit- ther King, Jr., these brave young nine But in acknowledging recent set- tle Rock Central High School by the Little boys and girls faced a hatred and a vio- backs, I would be remiss to not com- Rock Nine; lence that is embarrassing to recall, ment on the Jena Six. Just as the Lit- (2) encourages all Americans, upon this 50th anniversary, to recognize the historic and they faced it with nonviolent re- tle Rock Nine stood up to the inequi- contributions of the Little Rock Nine, who sistance. They were peaceful. Dr. King ties of their time, we must lift up the not only secured integration for Little Rock himself said ‘‘to meet physical force Jena Six in response to the inequities Central High School, but hundreds of thou- with soul force.’’ And that is what they of their time. sands of schools across the country; and did. Dr. King asked the students to The Little Rock Nine did not mean (3) commits itself, in the wake of recent think of the big picture as they moved to make national or world history; challenges, to continuing the legacy of forward, for they were going to be the they were just standing up for what Brown v. Board of Education and the Little frame for that picture. they believed was right. Rock Nine by protecting and advancing So on September 25, 1957, the stu- In considering this resolution, I ask equal educational opportunity for all. dents who came to be known as the that all of our Members move forward The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Little Rock Nine integrated Little with this same kind of determination ant to the rule, the gentleman from Rock Central High School, and history and understanding of what our democ- Michigan (Mr. CONYERS) and the gen- was forever changed. Escorted by 1,000 racy is all about. On this 50th anniver- tleman from Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) members of the 101st Airborne Division sary, let us all pledge to continue the each will control 20 minutes. of the , the Little legacy of the Little Rock Nine and The Chair recognizes the gentleman Rock Nine claimed the fair and equal Brown v. The Board by protecting and from Michigan. education that they were entitled to. advancing equal educational oppor- GENERAL LEAVE It took close to a month to secure tunity for all. Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I ask this access and opportunity, but these I omit the great work that was done unanimous consent that all Members young men and women persevered in by President Dwight Eisenhower and may have 5 legislative days within their mission of school integration. others that helped move this situation which to revise and extend their re- Defying Arkansas Governor Orval forward some 50 years ago. And I note marks and include extraneous material Faubus, segregationists and other also that Arkansas was not a hot bed of on the bill under consideration. protestors, the Little Rock Nine were segregation. It was considered, frankly, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there victorious in ending segregated edu- a moderate Southern State. But things objection to the request of the gen- cation. transpired so that it became that one tleman from Michigan? The Little Rock Nine’s first attempt activity in which these nine boys and There was no objection. to attend Central High School was on girls have gone into American history. Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield September 4, 1957; but the Arkansas They have been celebrated, and they myself such time as I may consume. Governor called in the National Guard have been talked about. I have been Mr. Speaker and my colleagues, I am of his State to keep them out. On Sep- hearing about them all week long as we pleased to join the entire Arkansas tember 23, the Little Rock Nine, armed prepare for this celebration. And I am congressional delegation, Representa- with a Federal court order, again tried so proud to bring this resolution on the tives VIC SNYDER, MARION BERRY, MIKE to attend Central High School, but pro- 50th anniversary of the desegregation ROSS, JOHN BOOZMAN, all in celebrating tests and violence forced the group of of Little Rock Central High School be- the 50th anniversary of the integration students out of the school. It was not fore this body. of the Little Rock Central High School until Federal protection was provided Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of by the Little Rock Nine. I would like that the students would be able to safe- my time. also to recognize the distinguished ly attend school on September 25. This Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I members of the House Judiciary Com- Federal protection would remain until yield myself such time as I may con- mittee, Ranking Member LAMAR SMITH the end of the school year, enabling Af- sume. and former chairman, JIM SENSEN- rican American senior Ernest Green to Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support BRENNER, who have joined me in the in- graduate. But, sadly, this year of of House Resolution 668, commemo- troduction of this resolution. progress would be tainted by the Ar- rating the Little Rock Nine, the Afri- Fifty years ago, on September 25, kansas Governor’s decision to close all can American students who enrolled in 1957, the Little Rock Nine, as they of the high schools the following year. Little Rock Central High School in 1957 were called, successfully challenged The Little Rock Nine would remain and were initially prevented from en- the status quo of ‘‘separate but equal.’’ champions of education and school in- tering that segregated school. I want Three years earlier, we all recall the tegration despite the fierce opposition. to commend Chairman CONYERS for

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.027 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10726 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 bringing this legislation forward and Little Rock Central High School Bennett, who comes to the floor with our ranking member, Congressman found itself in the spotlight of the en- me today. I yield the gentleman as SMITH, for his support of it as well. tire Nation on September 25, 1957, when much time as he may consume. President Dwight Eisenhower, fol- nine students escorted by the 101st Air- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I lowing the landmark Supreme Court borne Division of the U.S. Army want to thank Chairman CONYERS for, decision in Brown v. Board of Edu- walked up the front steps and inte- not only his leadership on this issue, cation, sent Federal troops to enforce grated the school. but so many issues involving civil integration and protect the Little The names of these nine individuals rights down through the years and for Rock Nine. On September 24, 1957, the are barely recognizable alone, but col- bringing this legislation to the floor. President ordered the Army to Little lectively as the Little Rock Nine they On May 17, 1954, the Supreme Court Rock, and the nine students entered gained national attention for their announced its decision in Brown vs. the school the next day. Thereafter, strength and unified determination to Board of Education, holding that the each of the students was given an indi- make our public schools a place where segregation in public schools was ille- vidual escort inside Central High everyone can learn regardless of race. gal. Three years later, nine black stu- School to prevent them from harass- dents entered Little Rock Central b 1615 ment by other students. High: Carlotta Walls, Jefferson Thom- It was surely a sad day when the Fed- This resolution honors their courage as, Elizabeth Eckford, Thelma eral Government had to use the most by commemorating the 50th anniver- Mothershed, Melba Pattillo, Terrance powerful military in the world to inte- sary of desegregation of Little Rock Roberts, Gloria Ray, Minniejean Brown grate one high school in Little Rock, Central High School and encourages all and Ernest Green. I feel a certain Arkansas. But it was also a proud day Americans to recognize the historic amount of kinship to these nine stu- as well, as it demonstrated how our contributions of the Little Rock Nine, dents because, at that very same time, Constitution and each branch of gov- who not only secured integration for I was a freshman in college, just 50 ernment had, since the Civil War, fi- Little Rock Central High School, but miles away at the University of Arkan- nally had been honed and fitted to ful- for hundreds of thousands of schools sas at Pine Bluff. And so over the fill the promise of racial equality in across our country. years, I had an opportunity to interact America. Tomorrow marks the 50th anniver- with several of them. Chairman CONYERS has already listed sary of this historic event, and I’m also Of course, the most well known is Er- the Little Rock Nine, but the efforts of proud to be taking part in the celebra- nest Green, who became an assistant which they themselves and their fami- tion of this civil rights achievement secretary in the U.S. Department of lies must be most proud are deserving through the dedication of a permanent Labor and is now the managing direc- of mentioning them again: Ernest Little Rock Central High School Mu- tor of Lehman Brothers investment Green, Elizabeth Eckford, Jefferson seum and Visitors Center. I’ll be joined firm. Thomas, Terrence Roberts, Carlotta tomorrow by many of my colleagues, Minniejean Brown, I spent a weekend Walls LaNier, Minnijean Brown, Gloria including the Arkansas congressional with, down at Southern Illinois Univer- Ray Karlmark, Thelma Mothershed, delegation, Congressmen JOHN sity, where she graduated just a few and Melba Pattillo Beals. With each BOOZMAN, MARION BERRY and VIC SNY- years ago when we were both there for step they took through the school- DER. some activity. house doors, they paved a path forward The Little Rock Nine have been ac- I did student teaching with Melba for countless other African Americans. knowledged with numerous awards and Pattillo’s mother, Mrs. Pattillo, who And when the school bell rang that recognitions, including the 2007 Little was a teacher in North Little Rock, Ar- day, it marked not only the start of Rock Central High School desegrega- kansas when I did student teaching. the school day; it rang for liberty and tion 50th anniversary commemorative And so it’s been a great move. It’s equality as well. coin, one of only two such coins that hard to imagine that 50 years ago I was The Little Rock Nine were awarded are done annually. And I want to thank there, but I guess I was, JOHN. It’s been the Congressional Gold Medal on No- my good friend from Arkansas, Con- vember 9, 1999. This resolution renews a long time, but much has happened gressman VIC SNYDER for leading the our commemoration of their coura- since then. effort in securing this as one of the two I simply want to congratulate Gov- geous actions of the 50th anniversary coins for this year. They’ve also been ernor Beebe, the Mayor of Little Rock, of their historic first steps into his- recognized for the Congressional Gold tory. I urge my colleagues to support all of the elected officials in Little Medal. That was back in 1999. This res- this resolution. Rock, for the tremendous display of I reserve the balance of my time. olution adds one more recognition to commemoration and celebration that Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I am this important group of individuals. has taken place over these 3 days as pleased now to recognize the distin- As we memorialize their legacies of they commemorate the tremendous guished gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. bravery so that future generations of movement. And I agree with Chairman ROSS), who has been serving in the Americans will forever know their CONYERS in suggesting that not only Congress for a period of years and we struggle, we can never forget the sac- has Little Rock, but the country has have enjoyed a very good working rela- rifices endured by these nine individ- come a long way since 1957. We’ve made tionship with him. I yield him such uals for the sake of progress on behalf tremendous progress, even though time as he may consume. of millions. The Little Rock Nine are there is much further to go. Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today symbolic of the victorious dismantling Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I in support of House Resolution 668, a of school segregation, and as such, I am have no further speakers. If the gen- resolution honoring and recognizing proud to cosponsor this resolution hon- tleman is prepared to close, I will yield the 50th anniversary of the desegrega- oring their contributions, and I urge back the balance of my time. tion of Little Rock Central High my fellow colleagues to vote in favor of Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield School by the Little Rock Nine. First, it today. myself just a minute to close to ob- I would like to thank Chairman CON- Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I re- serve that Arkansas, I have always YERS for his support and leadership in serve the balance of my time. connected with the former Governor of moving this resolution from the Judici- Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I am that State, the former President of this ary Committee to the floor of the pleased now to recognize the gen- country, Bill Clinton. And I understand United States House of Representa- tleman from Illinois, Mr. DANNY DAVIS, he’s going to be there tomorrow to cut tives. who, himself, grew up in Arkansas. He the ribbon, and I only wish that all of I am proud to be a cosponsor of this was a distinguished alderman in Chi- us who will be supporting and voting resolution, which honors the anniver- cago before becoming a Member of Con- for this resolution could be there with sary of the nine students who gained gress. He has worked with the Judici- him. national attention 50 years ago when ary Committee with particular interest I think Arkansas has come a long Little Rock Central High School was on re-entry programs, and he also hap- way. They’ve made a lot of progress, integrated. pens to represent my counsel, Kanya and we’re all working to make this a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.050 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10727 color-free society, where the content of Then, they did what was, in fact, the most im- bers have 5 legislative days to revise one’s character is far more important portant thing that day: They went inside to and extend their remarks and include and significant than the color of one’s learn. extraneous material on the bill under skin. While Central High School will always be consideration. I urge support for Resolution 668 and the event at the forefront of our memories The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there yield back the balance of my time. when it comes to the history of desegregation, objection to the request of the gen- Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Mr. Speaker, as we it is my hope that, as we remember the Nine, tleman from Virginia? commemorate the 50th anniversary of school we can also remember the other schools in There was no objection. desegregation in Arkansas and celebrate nine our State which preceded them, including Fay- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, brave young people and the families that sup- etteville, Hoxie, and the community of Charles- I yield myself such time as I may con- ported them, it is a day of bittersweet reflec- ton—who first broke down the barrier in Ar- sume. tion because the dreams they sought to fulfill kansas on August 23, 1954. H.R. 1199 was introduced on February for generations of African Americans remain I would also like to remember the names of 27 of this year by the gentleman from still not fully realized. Joe Ferguson, Jessie Ferguson, Mary Fer- California (Mr. CARDOZA). Currently, Today, as in 1957, we believe that edu- guson, Barbara Williams, Robert Williams, the legislation enjoys the support of 15 cation will help African Americans to get better Etholia Williams, Time Freeman, Betty Free- additional bipartisan cosponsors. jobs and to gain influence in American society. man, Myrdle Freeman, Leroy Jones, Raymond The measure, on its face, is quite But, 50 years later, the struggle is not over. Webb, Duty Webb, and Henry Web, who simple and straightforward. It simply While in 1957, African American students joined their fellow residents of Charleston to extends funding for the Drug Endan- struggled to get into high schools, today they bring about peaceful change. gered Children Grant Program through struggle to stay in school. In describing the As we spend this day reflecting on our past, fiscal year 2009. The current authoriza- current state of education for African Ameri- we should remember all the brave children, tion for the program is set to expire cans, an author stated ‘‘burdened with a his- families, and educators across the state this year. tory that includes the denial of education, sep- who—by their courage—set in motion a chain The Drug Endangered program was arate and unequal education, and religion to of events which created the Arkansas of the first authorized as title VII of the USA unsafe, substandard inner-city schools, the present and will resonate in the Arkansas of PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthor- quest for quality education remains an elusive the future. ization Act of 2005, which authorizes up dream for the African American community.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to $20 million a year for grants to ad- The current drop out rate among African question is on the motion offered by dress this problem. American males is estimated at 40 percent, 72 the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. One of the most troubling aspects of percent are jobless, and the likelihood of being CONYERS) that the House suspend the drug use is its impact on children. Ac- incarcerated is 60 percent. Fifty years later, rules and agree to the resolution, H. cording to the Drug Enforcement Agen- the playing field is not leveled. Res. 668. cy, over 15,000 children were found at H. Res. 668, not only recognizes the 50th The question was taken. methamphetamine labs from 2000 to anniversary of that momentous occasion on The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the 2004. The problem, however, is not lim- September 25, 1957, but it also calls for all to opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being ited to meth abuse. A Health and commit to continuing the legacy of Brown v. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Human Services study found that over Board of Education and the Little Rock Nine Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, on that 1.6 million children live in homes by protecting and advancing equal educational I demand the yeas and nays. where a variety of illicit drugs are opportunity for all. This would be a great way The yeas and nays were ordered. used. These drug-infested conditions to honor and continue to pay tribute to heroic The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- stretch child welfare agencies beyond actions of the Little Rock Nine. Little Rock ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the their capacities because of the in- Nine opened the door for education but we Chair’s prior announcement, further creased violence and neglect. must continue to close the gap in providing proceedings on this motion will be On February 6, the Crime Sub- quality education for all. postponed. committee held a hearing on H.R. 545, I urge all of my colleagues to join us in hon- f the Native American Methamphet- amine Enforcement and Treatment Act oring the people who made history on that DRUG ENDANGERED CHILDREN of 2007, which has been reported by day, and to also join them and us in working ACT OF 2007 toward the day when there will truly be equal both the Crime Subcommittee and the opportunity in education in every part of our Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, full Judiciary Committee. A central Nation. I move to suspend the rules and pass provision of that bill extends eligi- Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, on September the bill (H.R. 1199) to extend the grant bility for drug-endangered children 25th, our State—and our Nation—will recog- program for drug-endangered children. grants to Native American tribes. How- nize nine brave men and women who, when The Clerk read the title of the bill. ever, unless the Congress passes H.R. they were teenagers, came forward to claim The text of the bill is as follows: 1199, the authorization for the drug-en- their Constitutional right to an equal education H.R. 1199 dangered children grants will expire despite protests, threats of violence and even Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- this year, negating our recent efforts the Arkansas National Guard. resentatives of the United States of America in to help Native American children. I strongly Support this legislation which hon- Congress assembled, With this said, Mr. Speaker, I urge ors not only a red-letter date in our State’s his- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. my colleagues to support this much- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Drug Endan- tory, but a seminal event in the movement to gered Children Act of 2007’’. needed legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time. unite our country as truly one people, indivis- SEC. 2. DRUG-ENDANGERED CHILDREN GRANT ible. PROGRAM EXTENDED. Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I Fifty years ago, Minnijean Brown, Elizabeth Section 755(c) of the USA PATRIOT Im- yield myself as much time as I may Eckford, Ernest Green, Thelma Mothershed, provement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 consume. Melba Pattillo, Gloria Ray, Terrence Roberts, (42 U.S.C. 3797cc–2(c)) is amended by striking Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support Jefferson Thomas, and Carlotta Walls, climbed ‘‘fiscal years 2006 and 2007’’ and inserting of H.R. 1199, the Drug Endangered Chil- the steps of Central High School. Few other ‘‘fiscal years 2008 and 2009’’. dren Act of 2007, and commend my col- moments in our history can compare to the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- league from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT) for ascent made by the Little Rock Nine. It was ant to the rule, the gentleman from his leadership on this issue. an ascent to a new plateau in the relations of Virginia (Mr. SCOTT) and the gen- This legislation extends the existing Americans to their fellow citizens and a new tleman from Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) authorization for grants to State and plateau on the path to the American we now each will control 20 minutes. local governments and Indian tribes to know. The Chair recognizes the gentleman protect and help drug-endangered chil- On September 25, 1957, when the Nine from Virginia (Mr. SCOTT). dren. It is a sad consequence of our Na- made it to the top of those Central High GENERAL LEAVE tion’s drug problem that drug traf- School steps, they stood in a place where, up Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, fickers have such a devastating impact till that point, others said they could not go. I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- on innocent children who live and play

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.051 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10728 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 in areas used to facilitate the produc- pact of drug abuse on the foster care were under the age of 6. Nearly one-quarter tion and distribution of illegal drugs. system. were less than a year old. We owe it to our Nation’s children to Ladies and gentlemen, we must do These statistics are staggering but they do all that we can to protect them and more to help these children in need. have a very real face. They represent Iowa’s provide them the services needed to Methamphetamine is an extremely most vulnerable population—a population that allow them to grow and develop in a dangerous drug for children not only demands not only our attention but our action. healthy and loving home. because meth addicts are more likely The Iowa Drug Endangered Children Pro- It is often said that you can judge to abuse and abandon their children gram was established in 2004 to assist local the health of a society by the way in but also because meth-addicted parents communities in their efforts to protect the which it treats the innocent and vul- often set up meth labs in their homes. health and safety of children exposed to ille- nerable, our children. Too often we These labs are highly toxic and suscep- gal, toxic drugs in their homes. In my district, hear from law enforcement about chil- tible to fire and explosions and there- Linn and Wapello counties have created com- dren being used or abused by drug traf- fore place innocent children in physical munity-based Drug Endangered Children pro- fickers. The consequences to our chil- danger. In my district, children have grams in order to coordinate services and pro- dren are devastating. We must do been found at labs with burns from vide immediate intervention, long-term assist- whatever we can to protect our chil- spilled ingredients from the meth- ance, and follow-up care for children found in dren from the evils of drug dealing and amphetamine production process. In homes where illegal drugs are used, manufac- provide them with a safe environment addition, there is a high risk of lasting tured, or trafficked. in which to live. health damage from toxic fume inhala- Since 2001, 4,000 methamphetamine labs I urge my colleagues to support this tion. Tragically, according to the Drug have been dismantled in Iowa. Roughly 30 legislation, and I reserve the balance of Enforcement Administration, DEA, percent of these labs were based in homes my time. children are found present at 20 percent with children. State and local law enforcement, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, of all meth labs that are seized. prosecutors, and child welfare organizations I yield such time as he may consume to H.R. 1199, the Drug Endangered Chil- are dedicated to the protection of children the sponsor of this bill, the gentleman dren Act, will address the challenges found to be living in homes where dangerous from California (Mr. CARDOZA). facing children abandoned, neglected, and illicit drugs are present, but they cannot Mr. CARDOZA. Mr. Speaker, I’d like or abused by parents addicted to illicit carry out this enormous and vitally urgent task to thank my colleague from Virginia drugs. The legislation would authorize on their own. who’s been a tremendous supporter and the Department of Justice to make $20 This bill authorizes $20 million annually for assistance on this piece of legislation. the Drug Endangered Children grant program I rise in strong support of H.R. 1199, million in grants available for drug-en- for Fiscal Years 2008 and 2009. These grants the Drug Endangered Children’s Act. dangered children for fiscal years 2008 will assist in the coordination of State and And let me also thank, as well as my and 2009. The grants are designed to local agencies and will help to assure the swift colleague from Virginia, my colleague, improve coordination among law en- forcement, prosecutors, children pro- and safe transition of children from dangerous Mr. CONYERS, who’s the chairman of homes to safe residences. the Judiciary Committee, who also as- tection services, social service agen- We cannot sit by while almost 2 million chil- sisted us in bringing this legislation to cies, and health care providers to help dren nationwide continue to live in homes the floor. I appreciate both their ef- transition drug-endangered children where illegal drugs are present. This bill is an forts on behalf of our Nation’s children. into safe residential environments. Drug trafficking and abuse have a The Drug Endangered Children pro- essential step toward assuring the health and devastating impact on the children of gram would build on the successful safety of our Nation’s children, and I strongly this country and contribute to domes- Federal, State, and local partnerships urge its passage. Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong tic violence, abuse and neglect. Accord- of the COPS program and the Edward support of H.R. 1199, the Drug Endangered ing to a recent study, Health and Byrne Memorial Grant program. By Children Act. The Drug Endangered Children Human Services has said that over 1.6 funding coordination across jurisdic- program is critically important to my congres- million children live in a home where tions and among several different types sional district and others that have been at least one parent abuses illicit drugs, of government agencies, the Drug En- plagued by the meth scourge. Thanks to the including cocaine, methamphetamine, dangered Children program would fos- outstanding leadership of Susan Webber- heroin or prescription drugs. ter cooperative efforts to address the In my district in the central valley of needs of children affected by drug Brown, Butte County, California, was one of California, I have seen the harmful ef- abuse. These grants would leverage the the first jurisdictions in the country to create a fects of methamphetamine on chil- Federal Government’s investment by Drug Endangered Children team to focus on dren’s lives. While visiting schools in offering an incentive for local govern- the safety and protection of children during my area, I’ve been told by teachers and ment to invest their own money in con- law enforcement operations. However, due in administrators and, frankly, by the fronting this important problem. part to a lack of federal support, the state of students themselves, that a significant It’s time to pass this vital piece of California terminated DEC grant funding in portion of the students have a parent legislation. The 1.6 million children 2003. Since then, Butte and other counties or relative who abuses methamphet- across this country impacted by paren- have struggled to keep their programs up and amine. Sadly, I know that I’m not tal drug abuse need our help. Let us running. alone, as similar stories could be told help these children by passing the Drug As a former chairman of the House sub- in other parts the country where illicit Endangered Children Act and rid our- committee dealing with child welfare and fos- drugs are prevalent. selves of the scourge of drug abuse. ter care issues, I have heard countless heart- I’m particularly concerned about the I urge my colleagues to vote for H.R. breaking stories of children trapped in some of impact of this drug epidemic and what 1199. the most awful living conditions imaginable as it’s having on our foster care system. Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I a result of their parents’ or guardians’ involve- According to the National Association have no further requests for time, and ment with illegal drugs. The Drug Endangered of Counties, 40 percent of child welfare I yield back the balance of my time. Children program helps rescue children from officials nationwide report an increase Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, these dangerous environments, provide for in child welfare cases caused by meth- I ask the House to pass this important their immediate physical and psychological amphetamine. piece of legislation, and I thank the needs, and give them hope for a better life. I This issue strikes close to home for gentleman from California for his lead- hope my colleagues will join me in voting to me. In my home county of Merced, ership in introducing the bill. reauthorize this vitally needed program. California, between 67 and 75 percent of Mr. LOEBSACK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, foster care cases are methamphet- strong support of the Drug Endangered Chil- I yield back the balance of my time. amine-related. dren Act. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Over the last 6 years, 7,500 drug-related question is on the motion offered by b 1630 child abuse cases were reported in Iowa. In the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. As a father of two adopted children, I 2004, over 1,700 of Iowa’s children tested SCOTT) that the House suspend the have seen firsthand the damaging im- positive for illegal drugs. Two-thirds of them rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1199.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.053 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10729 The question was taken. databases to upload and compare evidence so 18th DNA-evidence case, a rape inves- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the that such victims ultimately may be located tigation open since 1978. After 29 years, opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being and identified and returned to their loved a victim will finally see justice. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. ones where they belong; and Mr. Speaker, we can and must con- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, (E) working to raise awareness among vic- tinue to fund advancing DNA tech- tim service providers and the general public on that I demand the yeas and nays. about the use of DNA and the Combined DNA nology because, although there has The yeas and nays were ordered. Index System to identify the unidentified been much success, there remains The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- dead; and much to do. Over 40,000 samples of bio- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the (3) directs the Clerk of the House of Rep- logical evidence related to missing per- Chair’s prior announcement, further resentatives to transmit an enrolled copy of sons are in laboratories around the proceedings on this motion will be this resolution to the Office for Victims of country ready for entry into DNA data- postponed. Crime and the National Institute for Justice bases with the potential of identifying in the Department of Justice. f almost 40 percent of our missing per- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- sons. And although DNA backlog re- EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE ant to the rule, the gentleman from duction grants have cleared more than HOUSE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF Virginia (Mr. SCOTT) and the gen- 60,000 criminal cases, exonerating the PROVIDING A VOICE FOR VIC- tleman from Ohio (Mr. CHABOT) each innocent and identifying the guilty, TIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN- will control 20 minutes. the backlog level remains almost un- VOLVED IN MISSING PERSONS The Chair recognizes the gentleman changed. Police departments and pros- AND UNIDENTIFIED HUMAN RE- from Virginia. ecutors recognizing the benefits of MAINS CASES GENERAL LEAVE DNA evidence have been trained in its Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, collection and are using the technology I move to suspend the rules and agree I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- more than ever before, which adds sam- to the resolution (H. Res. 340) express- bers have 5 legislative days to revise ples at the rate that the backlog is ing the sense of the House of Rep- and extend their remarks and include being cleared. resentatives of the importance of pro- extraneous material on the resolution Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to viding a voice for the many victims under consideration. support continued DNA-evidence back- (and families of victims) involved in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there log reduction grants in identifying missing persons cases and unidentified objection to the request of the gen- missing persons and to exonerate the human remains cases. tleman from Virginia? innocent and to identify the guilty. We The Clerk read the title of the resolu- There was no objection. have seen what the technology can do, tion. Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, and we have the wherewithal to fund The text of the resolution is as fol- I yield myself such time as I may con- those activities. Justice demands that lows: sume. we view continued funding as a major H. RES. 340 Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support responsibility. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Whereas there are more than 100,000 active of House Resolution 340 to express the missing person cases on any given day; commitment of the House of Rep- my time. Whereas every year tens of thousands of resentatives in giving victims involved Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield people vanish under suspicious cir- in missing persons and unidentified myself such time as I may consume. I, first of all, would like to thank the cumstances; human remains cases a voice through gentleman from Virginia for his leader- Whereas there are more than 40,000 sets of advancing DNA technology. ship on this very important issue. I human remains held in the property rooms The grief of loss of a loved one, par- of medical examiners, coroners, and police know Mr. SCOTT has been one of those ticularly a parent’s loss of a child, can departments across the country that cannot who has cared greatly about those fam- only be surpassed by the endless tor- be identified by conventional means; ilies that have suffered the trauma of a ment of not knowing. When a loved one Whereas of such 40,000 sets of human re- lost person within their family. So I mains, only six thousand sets of human re- is missing, there is no finality, no way want to thank Mr. SCOTT on this. And mains have been entered into the National to begin the grieving process so that I think this is another issue in which Crime Information Center (NCIC) and fewer closure may eventually come and fam- have been entered into other Federal data- we have seen bipartisanship in this ily and friends can begin healing. House. Sometimes you don’t see a lot bases such as the Violent Criminal Appre- Going on, often hoping against hope, hension Program (ViCap) or the Integrated of instances of that, but I think this is Automated Fingerprint Identification Sys- knowing the news they fear the most one where we can work together in a tem (IAFIS), or the National Missing Per- may come at any moment is a tor- bipartisan fashion, and I want to thank menting experience. sons DNA Database; Mr. SCOTT for his leadership on this. Whereas many cities and counties continue But with today’s DNA technology, Given that tomorrow is the first an- to bury or cremate unidentified human re- much of this burden can be removed. nual day of remembrance for murder mains without any attempt to collect DNA Over 6,000 samples of DNA evidence and many laboratories are unable to perform victims, it is only fitting that we rec- have been used to identify remains of ognize and respond to a segment of the timely DNA analysis of human remains, es- missing persons; and with continued pecially when they are old or are degraded; victim population that too often goes Whereas such victims and their families and increased funding, we can bring unrecognized: those victims who are have been without a voice for far too long: more justice to victims and peace to missing and whose remains have yet to Now, therefore, be it the families and friends. be identified. Unfortunately, it is far Resolved, That the House of Representa- Mr. Speaker, I further support the more common than one would think, tives— continued funding of DNA initiatives just how many families are searching (1) is committed to giving victims involved because of the incredible part DNA evi- for some clue as to the location of the in missing persons cases and unidentified dence has played both in determining remains of their missing family mem- human remains cases a voice; guilt and protecting the innocent. (2) supports that such voice should be bers, and too often families are alone heard by— Since 2002, over 200 wrongly convicted in their effort to locate their loved one. (A) continuing Federal funding for DNA persons have been exonerated through On any given day, there are more testing and the Combined DNA Index Sys- DNA evidence, including death row in- than 100,000 active missing-person tem; mates. In fact, just this weekend two cases in this country. Just think of (B) supporting greater cooperation between incredible stories arose in the Balti- that: over 100,000 active cases in this local, State, and Federal law enforcement; more area. On Saturday, September 22, Nation. Every year tens of thousands (C) providing more comprehensive training prosecutors dropped all charges against of people vanish under suspicious cir- and education for the more than 17,000 law a Baltimore man who had been held in enforcement agencies involved in missing cumstances. Equally disturbing is the persons cases and unidentified human re- a rape and assault of a 59-year-old knowledge that the skeletal remains of mains cases; woman just last month. This morning more than 40,000 individuals are being (D) providing medical examiners and coro- the Baltimore Sun newspaper reports stored with coroners, medical exam- ners with greater accessibility into Federal that Baltimore County has solved their iners, and police departments around

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.055 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10730 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 the country. And these may very well As a former judge and prosecutor and ence of minorities in the financial serv- be the very persons that those families founder of the Victims’ Rights Caucus, ices industry and minorities and are trying to identify. They don’t know I certainly understand how crime vic- women in upper level positions of man- what happened to their brother, their tims may be distraught and scared and agement, and expressing the sense of sister, their mother, their aunt, their hopeless. Some die in this emotional the Congress that active measures uncle, whomever it might be. Many of nightmare and some of those who die should be taken to increase the demo- these jurisdictions do not have the are kids. But now they need not be graphic diversity of the financial serv- technology to identify these individ- voiceless. Congress can be a voice for ices industry, as amended. uals. And even if they do, most States crime victims, especially those who The Clerk read the title of the con- do not require these officials to obtain have been murdered. current resolution. samples before burying or cremating I am proud to cosponsor H.R. 340. The text of the concurrent resolution the remains. Think of that. Your sister This resolution provides a voice for is as follows: could be in the State right next door in victims and their families, those that H. CON. RES. 140 the coroner’s office or a police station are involved in missing-person cases Whereas the financial services industry is vi- and the remains may be cremated, and and unidentified human remains cases. you may go the rest of your life and tally important to the United States economy; Any given day in the United States, Whereas in 2005, employment in the financial your family never knowing what hap- there are over 100,000 missing persons. services industry was about 7 percent of total pened to your sister. There are over 40,000 remains in med- employment in the United States, with over I know the impact of this ineffective ical examiners’ offices and coroners’ of- 10,000,000 employees; model on families, because in my own fices that cannot be identified. Cities Whereas since 1995, the average hourly earn- State of Ohio, a very good friend, some- and counties bury or cremate the un- ings of non-supervisory workers in financial ac- body that, unfortunately, I have gotten identified human remains without col- tivities was above the private industry and in- to know through a terrible tragedy in creased from approximately $13 in 1997 to $18.80 lecting DNA in many cases. So Con- in 2006; her own family, Deborah Culberson, gress must continue to fund DNA test- the mother of a murder victim, Carrie Whereas minorities and women face various ing, train and educate law enforcement challenges in obtaining and maintaining posi- Culberson, has been searching for the on these issues, and raise awareness tions, especially upper-level positions, within remains of her daughter for the last 11 about the use of this scientific phe- the financial services industry; years. While Carrie’s murderer will, nomenon, DNA, so that it can be used Whereas minorities and women often cite the hopefully, spend the rest of his life in to identify the unidentified. lack of mentors and leadership training as bar- jail, her body has never been found. riers to their advancement; Moreover, speculation exists that Car- b 1645 Whereas in 2005, about 14.9 percent of the rie’s remains may be in the State of We owe this to those silent who can- board seats at the Fortune 100 companies were Kentucky, we really don’t know, which not speak for themselves. held by minorities, and women comprised about does not mandate the same require- 16.9 percent of Fortune 100 company board seats DNA identifies missing victims as in 2005; ments for identifying human remains well as convicts the guilty and frees Whereas in the financial services industry, the as my State, Ohio. the innocent. For all of these reasons, percentage of black employees has slowly de- Rapidly advancing DNA technology this resolution should be adopted. So I creased from about 10.5 percent to 9.8 percent has proven to be a critical tool that totally support this resolution. between 2000 to 2005; law enforcement and families can ac- Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Whereas in 2005, blacks were approximately cess to locate and identify individuals back the balance of my time. 9.8 percent of those employed in the financial and solve cold cases. Yet as Debbie Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, services industry and about 7.4 percent of finan- Culberson’s search demonstrates, the cial managers; I yield myself such time as I may con- Whereas from 2000 to 2005, Hispanics have technology is not being utilized to its sume just to thank the gentleman from fullest. For example, many family been an increasing percentage of the United Ohio for his leadership in introducing States workforce and the financial services in- members of the missing or unidentified this resolution. I urge the House to dustry; do not know they can provide their adopt it. Whereas in 2005, Hispanics comprised about own DNA to assist law enforcement. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance 9.7 percent of those employed in the financial Some law enforcement officials do not of my time. services industry, just 6 percent of financial know that this DNA technology can as- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. managers, and less than 2 percent of the direc- sist in solving cold cases. Even if law tors of Fortune 1,000 companies; SIRES). The question is on the motion Whereas in 2004, Asians represented about 5.5 enforcement knows the technology ex- offered by the gentleman from Virginia ists, States may not mandate DNA percent of the employees in the financial serv- (Mr. SCOTT) that the House suspend the testing for this segment of the victim ices industry and about 6.3 percent of all finan- rules and agree to the resolution, H. cial managers; population. Whereas in 2004, the financial services indus- We, as elected officials, have a re- Res. 340. The question was taken. try ranked third in the percentage of women em- sponsibility to take the lead in ensur- ployed in the workforce behind healthcare and ing, number one, that adequate funding The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being education; and effective education and training Whereas approximately half of financial man- for law enforcement and the public ex- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. agers are women and the percentage of women ists; and, two, that all available re- Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, financial managers was approximately 51.7 in sources and tools are being used to on that I demand the yeas and nays. 2005; their fullest ability. The yeas and nays were ordered. Whereas in a 2001 survey of 2,200 senior and This resolution acknowledges The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- pipeline level women and men representing ap- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the proximately 60 securities firms, 65 percent of Congress’s commitment to these vic- women reported that women have to work hard- tims and to their families, that it will Chair’s prior announcement, further proceedings on this question will be er than men to get the same rewards, and 51 do everything within its authority to percent of women report that women are paid locate, identify, and return these sons, postponed. less than men for doing similar work; daughters, mothers, and fathers to f Whereas a minority of women (32 percent) and those families who are still searching RECOGNIZING THE LOW PRESENCE men (43 percent) believe that promotion deci- sions are made fairly in their firm; for their loved ones. OF MINORITIES IN THE FINAN- I urge my colleagues to support this Whereas the House-approved Financial Serv- CIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY AND ices Regulatory Relief Act of 2005 directed each important resolution. MINORITIES AND WOMEN IN Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he Federal banking agency to submit biennial re- UPPER LEVEL POSITIONS OF ports to Congress on the status of the employ- may consume to the gentleman from MANAGEMENT ment by the agency of women and minorities; Texas, Judge POE. Whereas the Government Accountability Of- Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Mr. MEEKS of New York. Mr. Speak- fice found in its report ‘‘Financial Services In- gentleman from Ohio for yielding me er, I move to suspend the rules and dustry: Overall Trends in Management-Level time and for offering this important agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Diversity and Diversity Initiatives, 1993–2003’’, piece of legislation. Con. Res. 140) recognizing the low pres- issued in June 2006, that overall diversity at the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.056 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10731 management level in the financial services in- There was no objection. cation from which to operate was an dustry did not change substantially from 1993 to Mr. MEEKS of New York. I yield my- available and skilled workforce. 2004; and self such time as I may consume. As a Member from New York, which Whereas, although the Government Account- Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the is America’s financial services capital, ability Office acknowledged that financial serv- ices firms have initiated programs to increase leadership of this House for bringing and a member of the Financial Serv- workforce diversity, the Office found that these this resolution to the floor. I’m an in- ices Committee, I have interacted and initiatives face challenges: Now, therefore, be it dividual who has great concerns about visited many financial services firms Resolved by the House of Representatives (the America’s ability to maintain its glob- from the various sectors of this indus- Senate concurring), al advantage economically in the years try. I’ve been very supportive of the in- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. to come. dustry because it is of importance to This resolution may be cited as the ‘‘Fi- Globalization is making the world a America’s competitive advantage and nancial Services Diversity Initiative’’. much smaller place. And although the financial health of my dear city, SEC. 2. FINANCIAL SERVICES DIVERSITY INITIA- TIVE. globalization has improved economic New York. However, the lack of diver- (a) CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION.—The Con- conditions in many parts of the world sity in the industry is glaring, particu- gress— and has contributed greatly and might- larly where African Americans and (1) recognizes that minorities and women ily to the United States’ prosperity, it Latinos are concerned. Although still face unique challenges entering into and also means that competition that was women are more than 50 percent of the obtaining upper level positions within the fi- once domestic is now international. industry, their absence is much greater nancial services industry; (2) encourages financial institutions to Young children today don’t only have in the executive management and the partner with organizations which are focused to compete with people of their town boardrooms. on developing opportunities for minorities for work, now they compete with the In a 2006 study conducted by the GAO and women to place talented young minori- people from their region. Businesses that was requested by the Financial ties and women in industry internships, sum- that once faced regional competition Services Committee, firm officials that mer employment, and full-time positions; now face international competition. were surveyed acknowledged that de- (3) encourages financial institutions to Not only can you now ship products all spite having problems, they still faced partner with inner-city high schools, girls’ over the globe, but modern commu- high schools, and high schools with majority challenges in recruiting and retaining minority populations to establish or enhance nications now allows you to contract minority candidates. According to the financial literacy programs and provide men- professional services from anywhere in report, ‘‘Some officials also said that toring; the world without needing a person and gaining employees’ buy-in to diversity (4) encourages financial institutions, in- personal meetings. Capital now moves programs was a challenge, particularly cluding Federal and State financial institu- across the planet instantaneously at among middle managers who were tion regulatory agencies, to build and retain the push of a button. often responsible for implementing key a diverse staff through initiatives, includ- What does all this have to do with aspects of such programs.’’ ing— my resolution, Mr. Speaker, the Finan- To bring the issue closer to home, in (A) providing financial support for minori- ties and women undergraduate and graduate cial Services Diversity Initiative? It New York State, the Department of business programs; has to do with the fact one of Amer- Labor statistics shows that financial (B) heavily recruiting at historically Black ica’s leading industries where we have activities account for approximately colleges and universities, Hispanic serving the global advantage is, in fact, finan- 460,000 jobs. African Americans and institutions, women’s colleges, and colleges cial services. Latinos together make up 53 percent of that typically serve majority minority popu- As outlined in the resolution, finan- New York City’s population. The same lations; cial services represents 7 percent of the source states that nearly 40 percent of (C) sponsoring and recruiting at job fairs in total employment in the United States, blacks and 35 percent of Latinos are urban communities; and and the industry is a key component of (D) placing job ads in newspapers and mag- unemployed. This is not to say that the azines oriented toward people of color; the U.S. trade surplus in services. financial services industry is respon- (5) encourages financial institutions to ap- The service sector is the largest and sible for the unemployment, but the point more minorities and women as board most dynamic force in the U.S. econ- fact of the matter is that if you are not members; and omy. Services account for over 80 per- able to place your majority population (6) encourages financial institutions, and cent of the United States’ GDP and em- in the majority industries of your city, public and private pension funds to seek ployment. Financial services is a key you’re going to have a serious unem- qualified minority and women owned firms component of our dominance in serv- ployment problem. And let’s face it, as investment managers, underwriters and ices, along with express delivery, tele- other business relationships. whatever industry you’re talking (b) SENSE OF THE CONGRESS.—It is the sense communications, information tech- about, your greatest resource is going of the Congress that— nology, audiovisual, energy, transpor- to be human resources. (1) active measures should be taken by em- tation and professional services. In this resolution, I’m not asking for ployers and educational institutions to in- In every single congressional district quotas or percentages, I’m asking for crease the demographic diversity of the fi- in the United States, the majority of the government and the industry to nancial services industry; and the workforce is employed in the serv- take steps that are consistent with (2) diversity within the financial services ice sector. In no district is there fewer America’s promise of fairness and op- industry is vitally important not only to than 70 percent of the workforce em- promoting innovation and creativity in the portunity toward increasing the diver- industry but to developing a more inclusive ployed in services, and in some dis- sity of the industry on all levels. workforce for a fair and just economy. tricts that figure is as high as 92 per- Years ago, this Congress passed the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- cent. Moreover, the service sector is Community Reinvestment Act, and ant to the rule, the gentleman from projected to account for virtually all banks found out that doing business New York (Mr. MEEKS) and the gentle- new job growth in the United States with a more diverse client base was woman from Illinois (Mrs. BIGGERT) over the next half decade. And States very profitable. I believe the entire in- each will control 20 minutes. like New York, North Carolina, Florida dustry will find the same is true with a The Chair recognizes the gentleman and California that already have major more diverse workforce. from New York. financial services, financial services I strongly encourage the Members of GENERAL LEAVE will be a major component of that this House to pass this resolution, Mr. MEEKS of New York. Mr. Speak- growth. which simply says that we want the er, I ask unanimous consent that all Despite current conditions, our long- best opportunities for all Americans. Members may have 5 legislative days term dominance in this area is not in- Let me take a moment to thank within which to revise and extend their evitable. As the McKenzie Report indi- Chairman FRANK and Ranking Member remarks on this legislation and to in- cated, our lead in financial services is BACHUS for working in a bipartisan way sert extraneous material thereon. being challenged all over the globe, in bringing this through the committee The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there particularly by . In that study, and to the floor. I also want to thank objection to the request of the gen- the executives surveyed stated that Jameel Johnson of my staff, Erika Jef- tleman from New York? one of the key factors in choosing a lo- fers and Jaime Lizarraga of Mr.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.034 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10732 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 FRANK’s staff, who happen to be two tunities to advance to senior leadership my home district of Dallas, TX. While many in- African Americans, one is a female and in their firm have increased over the dustries have successfully created a diverse one is a Latino, showing how diversity past 5 years,’’ and ‘‘60 percent of workplace, the financial service industry has works, and we are working together. women report opportunities to advance fallen short, creating an unacceptable disparity Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of to senior leadership have improved for minorities and women. As a society, it is my time. somewhat or slightly.’’ our responsibility to promote the diversity in Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in So, what do we do about the rel- the workplace and ensure confidence in any support of House Concurrent Resolu- atively small number of women leaders individual’s ability to succeed at all levels. tion 140. This resolution recognizes the in the financial services industry? I In order to raise awareness and combat low presence of minorities in the finan- would suggest that step one is to recog- these disparities, we must furnish all children cial services industry and minorities nize the problem, which we are doing a first class education. Education is the vital and women in upper-level positions of with this resolution today, and step threshold in expanding opportunities to quali- management. It also expresses the two is to encourage the financial serv- fied candidates, regardless of their race or sense of Congress that active measures ices industry to take action and ex- sex. The Financial Services Diversity Initiative should be taken to increase the demo- plore ways to increase the involvement enforce fairness and accountability to all edu- graphic diversity of the financial serv- of women and minorities in the finan- cational and employment sectors. ices industry. cial services industry. Mr. Speaker, as a person of color and a I would like to thank the gentleman Currently, programs like those spon- woman, I know first hand the importance of from New York, Congressman MEEKS, sored by Girls, Incorporated are work- equality and diversity. I strongly support the for introducing this resolution and for ing to promote economic and financial Financial Services Diversity Initiatives which his leadership in the very important literacy among young women. I would offers to eliminate the inequality among mi- issue of diversity in the financial serv- like to commend them for their work, norities and women in the financial services ices industry. and also commend the efforts of all of industry. As co-Chair of the Women’s Caucus those involved with Women’s Policy Mr. MEEKS of New York. Mr. Speak- Business Task Force and as one of only Inc., Women Impacting Public Policy, er, I yield back the balance of my time. 13 women in the U.S. Congress, includ- the Small Business and Entrepreneur- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ing the House and the Senate, who ship Council, and many others who are question is on the motion offered by serve on a committee overseeing the fi- promoting women in business. the gentleman from New York (Mr. nancial services sector, I would like to In addition, it is my hope that during MEEKS) that the House suspend the focus my remarks today on women in this Congress we can go beyond this rules and agree to the concurrent reso- lution, H. Con. Res. 140, as amended. this industry. resolution. I hope that we can examine The question was taken; and (two- As I have learned from my own expe- ways to propel women in business, thirds being in the affirmative) the rience on the Financial Services Com- women in financial services forward rules were suspended and the concur- mittee, women are few and far between and help them secure leadership roles rent resolution, as amended, was in upper-level positions of management in the industry. agreed to. and in financial services. This resolu- As the new ranking member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on A motion to reconsider was laid on tion acknowledges this factor and Financial Institutions and Consumer the table. rightly encourages industry to take ac- Credit, I intend to request that our f tion to increase diversity. Mr. Speaker, women and minorities subcommittee hold a hearing to exam- b 1700 ine the issues of access to capital for are still just that, the minority, in cor- women business owners, especially SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND porate boardrooms throughout the fi- those in the financial services. I hope IDEALS OF FEDERAL CREDIT nancial services industry. According to that we can hold such a hearing during UNION MONTH a publication called ‘‘Women in Finan- this Congress. cial Services: The Word on the Street’’ Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I It is important that we continue to move to suspend the rules and agree to released by Catalyst in 2001, women examine the barriers confronting the resolution (H. Res. 658) supporting cited a number of reasons why they women in business and find ways to the goals and ideals of Federal Credit might be missing at the table. help them overcome these barriers. I Almost three-quarters of the women Union Month and recognizing the im- believe that increasing the number of portance of Federal credit unions to surveyed cited a lack of mentors as an qualified women in leadership roles in the economy, and their critical mission obstacle barring them from advancing. the financial services industry will in serving those of modest means. Well over 50 percent of the women cited both enrich the industry and make it The Clerk read the title of the resolu- exclusion from informal networks of more competitive. tion. communication, lack of women role Again, I thank the author of this res- The text of the resolution is as fol- models, failure of senior leadership to olution, Mr. MEEKS. lows: assume accountability for women’s ad- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance H. RES. 658 vancement, and several additional fac- of my time. Whereas, on June 26, 1934, President Frank- tors as barriers to success. The same Mr. MEEKS of New York. I yield my- lin Roosevelt signed into law the Federal report cites that 65 percent of women self such time as I may consume sim- Credit Union Act, thus enabling credit have to work harder than men to get ply to thank the gentlelady from Illi- unions to be organized throughout the the same rewards, and that women are nois for her support in working in a United States under the charters approved paid less for doing similar work. clearly bipartisan manner in this par- by the Federal Government; The Government Accountability Of- ticular matter so that we can get our Whereas Federal credit unions were char- fice released the report that Mr. MEEKS friends in the financial services to offer tered as uniquely democratic economic orga- just spoke about revealing that over an nizations, founded on the principle that per- opportunities to men and women who sons of good character and all backgrounds, 11-year period, the commitment to di- happen to be minorities, and we can including those of modest means, joining to- versity in the financial services indus- move on and share in this great popu- gether in cooperative spirit and action, can try was strong. However, the GAO lation. promote thrift, create a source of credit for found that this commitment has yet to Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. productive purposes, and build a better translate into any real progress for Mr. Speaker, I rise today to identify the low standard of living for themselves; women. representation of minorities and women in the Whereas Federal credit unions have con- The GAO report also said, ‘‘Research financial services industry. The Financial Serv- sistently met those purposes and exemplified reports suggest that minority and ices Diversity Initiative calls upon the public the traditional American values of thrift, women-owned businesses have dif- self-help, and volunteerism, carving out a and private sector to provide more opportuni- special place for themselves among the Na- ficulty obtaining access to capital for ties for minorities and women to succeed in tion’s financial institutions; several reasons.’’ According to another the financial services industry. Whereas Federal credit unions operate Catalyst study, ‘‘a small minority of The financial service industry has an ex- with the credo ‘‘Not for profit, not for char- women, 18 percent, report that oppor- traordinary impact on the country, including ity—but for service’’ and have consistently

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:06 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.061 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10733 reflected this philosophical tradition and the unions in several areas like capital employees, in particular, Chairwoman cooperative spirit of ‘‘people helping people’’ standards, business lending, and the JoAnn Johnson, at the National Credit that gave birth to the Federal Credit Union ability of some credit unions to provide Union Administration, the Federal Act; services to underserved areas. From credit union regulator. Whereas there are over 5,000 Federal credit Again, I thank the cosponsors of this unions in the United States serving nearly my perspective, we should revisit these 50,000,000 Americans in all 50 States; and areas and work to help credit unions resolution. Whereas September 2007 has been des- operate more effectively and efficiently Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. ignated as Federal Credit Union Month: Now, in the years ahead. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I therefore, be it In closing, I am proud to be a sup- rise today to recognize the goals and ideals of Resolved, That the House of Representa- porter of the credit union movement Federal Credit Union Month. Credit unions tives— and am pleased to speak in support of across the United States have been a vital (1) supports the goals and ideals of Federal recognizing September as National component to economic growth and empower- Credit Union Month; and Credit Union Month. ment. (2) recognizes the importance of Federal This month is intended to bring awareness credit unions to the economy, and their crit- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ical mission in serving those of modest support this important resolution. to credit union’s impact on the economy and means. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the tremendous service they provide to their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- my time. members. Our federal credit unions play an ant to the rule, the gentleman from Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in important role in the lives of many Americans, my district in Dallas, TX, included. Credit Pennsylvania (Mr. KANJORSKI) and the support of House Resolution 658, a reso- gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. lution supporting the goals and ideals unions offer the chance for its members to participate in their financial lives as owners, BIGGERT) each will control 20 minutes. of designating September 2007 as Fed- The Chair recognizes the gentleman eral Credit Union Month. First, I would rather than just account holders. from Pennsylvania. like to thank the Congresswoman and Credit unions help communities and families achieve their part of the American Dream by GENERAL LEAVE the Congressman from New York, Mrs. offering financial services and banking oppor- Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I ask MALONEY and Mr. WALSH, for their tunities that many members would otherwise unanimous consent that all Members leadership and for introducing this im- be denied with a privately owned institution. may have 5 legislative days within portant resolution. I would also like to These opportunities enhance stability and af- which to revise and extend their re- thank my colleague from Pennsylvania fordability in ownership and security for credit marks on this legislation and to insert (Mr. KANJORSKI) for managing this res- olution. union members. extraneous material thereon. Mr. Speaker, federal credit unions remain The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Second, I, too, would like to recog- an important financial institution for many of objection to the request of the gen- nize credit unions for the important our Nation’s hard working people. It is impor- tleman from Pennsylvania? role that they play in our community. There was no objection. This resolution honors the 5,000 Fed- tant that we as a body continue to articulate Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I eral credit unions that serve the finan- support for our Nation’s federal credit unions. yield myself such time as I may con- cial needs of 50 million Americans, or As a loyal member of a federal credit union I sume. about 17 percent of all U.S. citizens. strongly support the goals and ideas this Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my Democratic organizations that are run month promotes. thoughts about House Resolution 658, by their members, credit unions have Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield of which I am proud to be a cosponsor. provided millions of Americans the back the balance of my time. Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I House Resolution 658 would designate credit and financial services that they have no further requests for time, and September as National Credit Union need to buy cars, build homes, and pay I yield back the balance of my time. Month. America’s credit union move- for education. Of particular importance The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ment began during the Great Depres- is that credit unions across the country question is on the motion offered by sion with the passage of the Federal promote financial education and are a the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Credit Union Act. With its mission of part of our national effort to increase KANJORSKI) that the House suspend the helping people of modest means, the financial literacy rates, especially rules and agree to the resolution, H. credit union movement has blossomed, among our Nation’s youth. Res. 658. and these financial institutions help to The mission of credit unions is to The question was taken; and (two- keep our economy vibrant. Today, serve those of modest means. In my thirds being in the affirmative) the credit unions serve more than 89 mil- congressional district, the 13th District rules were suspended and the resolu- lion members at more than 9,000 State of Illinois, credit unions serve police- tion was agreed to. and federally chartered institutions. men, teachers, post office employees, A motion to reconsider was laid on These financial entities are coopera- airline pilots, and health care profes- the table. sionals. Credit unions also serve sci- tive organizations that are owned and f controlled by their members. From my entists, engineers, and their support perspective, the credit union move- staff at Argonne National Laboratory, RECESS ment represents democratic capital of a Department of Energy laboratory The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- our society. The movement also rep- that supports cutting-edge basic re- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair resents the grass-roots of our democ- search and the advanced development declares the House in recess until ap- racy. of advanced energy technologies rang- proximately 6:30 p.m. today. Among other things, credit unions ing from next generation nuclear reac- Accordingly (at 5 o’clock and 5 min- provide much-needed services to young tors to fuel cells for hydrogen-powered utes p.m.), the House stood in recess families and small businesses, often of- cars. It could be said that by serving until approximately 6:30 p.m. fering mortgages and startup loans at scientists and engineers in my congres- f low rates. In addition, credit unions in- sional district, credit unions are help- b 1830 vest in the areas where they are lo- ing, literally and figuratively, to drive cated by assisting in community revi- our future. AFTER RECESS talization and economic renewal ef- Finally, I would like to recognize all The recess having expired, the House forts, as well as working with under- of the credit unions and associations, was called to order by the Speaker pro served populations to help them gain especially those in Illinois, for their tempore (Mr. SALAZAR) at 6 o’clock and access to our Nation’s banking system. contributions to our communities. Spe- 30 minutes p.m. More than 9 years ago, we passed the cifically, I would like to recognize and f Credit Union Membership Access Act, thank the Credit Union National Asso- which I helped to introduce. This legis- ciation, the National Association of ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER lation modernized Federal credit union Federal Credit Unions, and the Illinois PRO TEMPORE laws. Unfortunately, however, it also Credit Union League. Last but not The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- imposed severe restrictions on credit least, I would like to thank all of the ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.038 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10734 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 will resume on motions to suspend the Heller McHenry Sarbanes Snyder Tiahrt Waters rules previously postponed. Hensarling McHugh Saxton Stupak Towns Westmoreland Herseth Sandlin McIntyre Schakowsky Votes will be taken in the following Higgins McKeon Schiff b 1856 order: Hill McMorris Schmidt Mr. MCNERNEY changed his vote H. Con. Res. 193, by the yeas and Hinchey Rodgers Schwartz Hinojosa McNerney from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ nays; Scott (GA) Hirono McNulty Scott (VA) So (two-thirds being in the affirma- H. Res. 668, by the yeas and nays; Hobson Meek (FL) Sensenbrenner tive) the rules were suspended and the H.R. 1199, by the yeas and nays; Hodes Meeks (NY) Serrano concurrent resolution was agreed to. H. Res. 340, by the yeas and nays. Hoekstra Melancon Sessions Holden Mica Sestak The result of the vote was announced The first electronic vote will be con- Holt Michaud Shadegg as above recorded. Hooley Miller (FL) ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Shays Hoyer Miller (MI) A motion to reconsider was laid on electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Shea-Porter Hulshof Miller (NC) the table. minute votes. Hunter Miller, Gary Sherman Inglis (SC) Miller, George Shimkus f f Inslee Mitchell Shuler Israel Mollohan Shuster RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVER- RECOGNIZING ALL HUNTERS Issa Moore (KS) Simpson SARY OF THE SEPTEMBER 25, Sires ACROSS THE UNITED STATES Jackson (IL) Moore (WI) 1957, DESEGREGATION OF LITTLE Jackson-Lee Moran (KS) Skelton FOR THEIR CONTINUED COMMIT- (TX) Moran (VA) Slaughter ROCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL BY MENT TO SAFETY Jefferson Murphy, Patrick Smith (NE) THE LITTLE ROCK NINE Johnson (GA) Murphy, Tim Smith (NJ) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Jones (NC) Murtha Smith (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- finished business is the vote on the mo- Jones (OH) Musgrave Smith (WA) finished business is the vote on the mo- tion to suspend the rules and agree to Jordan Myrick Solis tion to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. Kagen Napolitano Souder the resolution, H. Res. 668, on which Kanjorski Neugebauer Space 193, on which the yeas and nays were Kaptur Nunes Spratt the yeas and nays were ordered. ordered. Keller Oberstar Stark The Clerk read the title of the resolu- The Clerk read the title of the con- Kildee Obey Stearns tion. Kilpatrick Olver current resolution. Sullivan The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Kind Ortiz Sutton King (IA) Pallone The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Tancredo question is on the motion offered by King (NY) Pascrell question is on the motion offered by Tanner the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kingston Pastor Tauscher the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Kirk Paul CONYERS) that the House suspend the DAVIS) that the House suspend the Klein (FL) Payne Taylor rules and agree to the resolution, H. Kline (MN) Pearce Terry rules and agree to the concurrent reso- Thompson (CA) Res. 668. lution, H. Con. Res. 193. Knollenberg Perlmutter This will be a 5-minute vote. Kuhl (NY) Peterson (MN) Thompson (MS) The vote was taken by electronic de- Lamborn Petri Thornberry The vote was taken by electronic de- vice, and there were—yeas 385, nays 0, Lampson Pitts Tiberi vice, and there were—yeas 387, nays 0, not voting 47, as follows: Lantos Platts Tierney not voting 45, as follows: Larsen (WA) Poe Turner [Roll No. 891] Larson (CT) Porter Udall (CO) [Roll No. 892] YEAS—385 Latham Price (GA) Udall (NM) YEAS—387 LaTourette Price (NC) Upton Abercrombie Calvert Drake Lee Putnam Van Hollen Abercrombie Buyer Drake Ackerman Camp (MI) Dreier Ackerman Calvert Dreier Levin Radanovich Vela´ zquez Aderholt Campbell (CA) Duncan Aderholt Camp (MI) Duncan Lewis (CA) Rahall Visclosky Akin Cannon Edwards Akin Campbell (CA) Edwards Lewis (GA) Ramstad Walberg Alexander Cantor Ehlers Alexander Cannon Ehlers Lewis (KY) Rangel Walden (OR) Allen Capito Ellison Allen Cantor Ellison Linder Regula Walsh (NY) Altmire Capuano Ellsworth Lipinski Rehberg Altmire Capito Ellsworth Andrews Cardoza Emanuel Walz (MN) Andrews Capuano Emanuel LoBiondo Reichert Wamp Arcuri Carnahan Emerson Loebsack Renzi Arcuri Cardoza Emerson Baca Carney English (PA) Wasserman Baca Carnahan Engel Lofgren, Zoe Reyes Schultz Bachmann Carter Eshoo Lowey Reynolds Bachmann Carney English (PA) Watson Bachus Castle Everett Lungren, Daniel Richardson Bachus Carter Eshoo Watt Baird Castor Fallin E. Rodriguez Baird Castle Etheridge Waxman Baker Chabot Farr Lynch Rogers (KY) Baker Castor Everett Weiner Baldwin Chandler Fattah Mack Rogers (MI) Baldwin Chabot Fallin Barrett (SC) Clarke Feeney Mahoney (FL) Rohrabacher Welch (VT) Barrett (SC) Chandler Farr Barrow Clay Ferguson Maloney (NY) Ros-Lehtinen Weldon (FL) Barrow Clarke Fattah Bartlett (MD) Cleaver Filner Manzullo Roskam Weller Bartlett (MD) Clay Feeney Barton (TX) Clyburn Flake Marchant Ross Wexler Barton (TX) Clyburn Ferguson Bean Coble Forbes Markey Rothman Whitfield Bean Coble Filner Becerra Cohen Fortenberry Marshall Roybal-Allard Wicker Becerra Cohen Flake Berkley Cole (OK) Fossella Matheson Royce Wilson (NM) Berkley Cole (OK) Forbes Berman Conaway Foxx Matsui Ruppersberger Wilson (OH) Berman Conaway Fortenberry Biggert Conyers Frank (MA) McCarthy (CA) Rush Wilson (SC) Biggert Conyers Fossella Bilbray Cooper Franks (AZ) McCarthy (NY) Ryan (OH) Wolf Bilbray Cooper Foxx Bilirakis Costello Frelinghuysen McCaul (TX) Ryan (WI) Woolsey Bilirakis Costello Frank (MA) Bishop (NY) Courtney Gallegly McCollum (MN) Salazar Wu Bishop (NY) Courtney Franks (AZ) Blackburn Cramer Garrett (NJ) McCotter Sali Wynn Bishop (UT) Cramer Frelinghuysen Blumenauer Cuellar Gerlach McCrery Sa´ nchez, Linda Yarmuth Blackburn Cuellar Gallegly Blunt Culberson Giffords McDermott T. Young (AK) Blumenauer Culberson Garrett (NJ) Boehner Cummings Gilchrest McGovern Sanchez, Loretta Young (FL) Blunt Cummings Gerlach Bonner Davis (AL) Gillibrand Boehner Davis (AL) Giffords Bono Davis (CA) Gingrey NOT VOTING—47 Bonner Davis (CA) Gilchrest Boozman Davis (IL) Gohmert Bono Davis (IL) Gillibrand Boren Davis (KY) Gonzalez Berry Delahunt LaHood Boozman Davis (KY) Gingrey Boswell Davis, David Goode Bishop (GA) DeLauro Langevin Boren Davis, David Gohmert Boucher Davis, Lincoln Goodlatte Bishop (UT) Engel Lucas Boswell Davis, Lincoln Gonzalez Boustany Deal (GA) Gordon Brown, Corrine Etheridge Murphy (CT) Boucher Deal (GA) Goode Boyd (FL) DeFazio Granger Brown-Waite, Grijalva Nadler Boustany DeGette Goodlatte Boyda (KS) DeGette Graves Ginny Gutierrez Neal (MA) Boyd (FL) DeLauro Gordon Brady (PA) Dent Green, Al Burgess Hastert Pence Boyda (KS) Dent Granger Brady (TX) Diaz-Balart, L. Green, Gene Capps Herger Peterson (PA) Brady (PA) Diaz-Balart, L. Graves Braley (IA) Diaz-Balart, M. Hall (NY) Carson Honda Braley (IA) Diaz-Balart, M. Green, Al Pickering Broun (GA) Dicks Hall (TX) Costa Jindal Broun (GA) Dicks Green, Gene Pomeroy Brown (SC) Dingell Hare Crenshaw Johnson (IL) Brown (SC) Dingell Hall (NY) Pryce (OH) Buchanan Doggett Harman Crowley Johnson, E. B. Buchanan Doggett Hall (TX) Burton (IN) Donnelly Hastings (FL) Cubin Johnson, Sam Rogers (AL) Burgess Donnelly Hare Butterfield Doolittle Hastings (WA) Davis, Jo Ann Kennedy Burton (IN) Doolittle Harman Buyer Doyle Hayes Davis, Tom Kucinich Butterfield Doyle Hastings (FL)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.067 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10735 Hastings (WA) McHugh Sa´ nchez, Linda Snyder Tiahrt Waters Gillibrand Markey Rush Hayes McIntyre T. Stupak Towns Westmoreland Gingrey Marshall Ryan (OH) Heller McKeon Sanchez, Loretta Gohmert Matheson Ryan (WI) Hensarling McMorris Sarbanes ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Gonzalez Matsui Salazar Herseth Sandlin Rodgers Saxton The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Goode McCarthy (CA) Sali Higgins McNerney Schakowsky the vote). Members are advised there Goodlatte McCarthy (NY) Sa´ nchez, Linda Hill McNulty Schiff Gordon McCaul (TX) T. Hinchey Meek (FL) Schmidt are 2 minutes remaining in this vote. Granger McCollum (MN) Sanchez, Loretta Hinojosa Meeks (NY) Schwartz Graves McCotter Sarbanes Hirono Melancon Scott (GA) b 1902 Green, Al McCrery Saxton Hobson Mica Scott (VA) So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Green, Gene McDermott Schakowsky Hodes Sensenbrenner Hall (NY) McGovern Michaud tive) the rules were suspended and the Schiff Hoekstra Miller (FL) Serrano Hall (TX) McHenry Schmidt Holden Miller (MI) Sessions resolution was agreed to. Hare McHugh Schwartz Holt Miller (NC) Sestak The result of the vote was announced Harman McIntyre Scott (GA) Hooley Miller, Gary Shadegg Hastings (FL) McKeon Scott (VA) as above recorded. Hastings (WA) McMorris Hoyer Miller, George Shays Sensenbrenner A motion to reconsider was laid on Hayes Rodgers Hulshof Mitchell Shea-Porter Serrano Heller McNerney Inglis (SC) Mollohan Sherman the table. Sessions Hensarling McNulty Inslee Moore (KS) Shimkus Sestak Herseth Sandlin Meek (FL) Israel Moore (WI) Shuler f Shadegg Higgins Meeks (NY) Issa Moran (KS) Shuster Hill Melancon Shays Jackson (IL) Moran (VA) Simpson PERSONAL EXPLANATION Shea-Porter Jackson-Lee Sires Hinchey Mica Murphy, Patrick Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall Nos. Hinojosa Michaud Sherman (TX) Murphy, Tim Skelton Shimkus Jefferson Slaughter 891 & 892, had I been present, I would have Hirono Miller (FL) Murtha Hobson Miller (MI) Shuler Johnson (GA) Musgrave Smith (NE) voted ‘‘yea.’’ Shuster Jones (NC) Smith (NJ) Hodes Miller (NC) Myrick Hoekstra Miller, Gary Simpson Jones (OH) Nadler Smith (TX) f Sires Jordan Smith (WA) Holden Miller, George Napolitano Holt Mitchell Skelton Kagen Neugebauer Solis DRUG ENDANGERED CHILDREN Slaughter Kanjorski Souder Hooley Mollohan Nunes ACT OF 2007 Hoyer Moore (KS) Smith (NE) Kaptur Space Oberstar Hulshof Moore (WI) Smith (NJ) Keller Spratt The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Obey Inglis (SC) Moran (KS) Smith (TX) Kildee Stark Olver finished business is the vote on the mo- Inslee Moran (VA) Smith (WA) Kilpatrick Stearns Ortiz tion to suspend the rules and pass the Israel Murphy, Patrick Solis Kind Sullivan Pallone Issa Murphy, Tim Souder King (IA) Sutton bill, H.R. 1199, on which the yeas and Pascrell Jackson (IL) Murtha Space King (NY) Tancredo nays were ordered. Pastor Jackson-Lee Musgrave Spratt Kingston Tanner Paul The Clerk read the title of the bill. (TX) Myrick Stark Kirk Tauscher Payne Jefferson Nadler Stearns Klein (FL) Taylor The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Pearce Johnson (GA) Napolitano Sullivan Kline (MN) Terry question is on the motion offered by Pence Jones (NC) Neugebauer Sutton Knollenberg Thompson (CA) the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Jones (OH) Nunes Kuhl (NY) Perlmutter Thompson (MS) Tancredo Peterson (MN) SCOTT) that the House suspend the Jordan Oberstar Tanner Lamborn Thornberry Kagen Obey Lampson Petri Tiberi rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1199. Tauscher Pitts Kanjorski Olver Taylor Lantos Tierney This is a 5-minute vote. Kaptur Ortiz Larsen (WA) Platts Turner The vote was taken by electronic de- Terry Poe Keller Pallone Thompson (CA) Latham Udall (CO) vice, and there were—yeas 389, nays 4, Kennedy Pascrell LaTourette Porter Udall (NM) Thompson (MS) Price (GA) not voting 39, as follows: Kildee Pastor Thornberry Lee Upton Kilpatrick Payne Price (NC) Tiberi Levin Van Hollen [Roll No. 893] Kind Pearce Putnam Tierney Lewis (CA) Vela´ zquez King (IA) Pence Radanovich YEAS—389 Turner Lewis (GA) Visclosky King (NY) Perlmutter Rahall Udall (CO) Lewis (KY) Walberg Abercrombie Brown (SC) DeFazio Kingston Peterson (MN) Ramstad Udall (NM) Linder Walden (OR) Ackerman Buchanan DeGette Kirk Peterson (PA) Rangel Lipinski Walsh (NY) Aderholt Burgess DeLauro Klein (FL) Petri Upton LoBiondo Regula Walz (MN) Akin Burton (IN) Dent Kline (MN) Pitts Van Hollen ´ Loebsack Rehberg Wamp Alexander Butterfield Diaz-Balart, L. Knollenberg Platts Velazquez Lofgren, Zoe Reichert Wasserman Allen Buyer Diaz-Balart, M. Kuhl (NY) Poe Visclosky Lowey Renzi Schultz Altmire Calvert Dicks Lamborn Porter Walberg Lungren, Daniel Reyes Watson Andrews Camp (MI) Dingell Lampson Price (GA) Walden (OR) E. Reynolds Watt Arcuri Campbell (CA) Doggett Lantos Price (NC) Walsh (NY) Lynch Richardson Waxman Baca Cannon Donnelly Larsen (WA) Putnam Walz (MN) Mack Rodriguez Weiner Bachmann Cantor Doolittle Larson (CT) Radanovich Wamp Mahoney (FL) Rogers (AL) Welch (VT) Bachus Capito Doyle Latham Rahall Wasserman Maloney (NY) Rogers (KY) Weldon (FL) Baird Capuano Drake LaTourette Ramstad Schultz Manzullo Rogers (MI) Weller Baker Cardoza Dreier Lee Rangel Watson Marchant Rohrabacher Wexler Baldwin Carnahan Duncan Levin Regula Watt Markey Ros-Lehtinen Whitfield Barrett (SC) Carney Edwards Lewis (CA) Rehberg Waxman Matheson Roskam Wicker Barrow Carter Ehlers Lewis (GA) Reichert Weiner Matsui Ross Wilson (NM) Bartlett (MD) Castle Ellison Lewis (KY) Renzi Welch (VT) McCarthy (CA) Rothman Wilson (OH) Barton (TX) Castor Ellsworth Linder Reyes Weldon (FL) McCarthy (NY) Roybal-Allard Wilson (SC) Bean Chabot Emanuel Lipinski Reynolds Weller McCaul (TX) Royce Wolf Becerra Chandler Emerson LoBiondo Richardson Wexler McCollum (MN) Ruppersberger Woolsey Berkley Clarke Engel Loebsack Rodriguez Whitfield McCotter Rush Wu Berman Clay English (PA) Lofgren, Zoe Rogers (AL) Wicker McCrery Ryan (OH) Wynn Biggert Cleaver Eshoo Lowey Rogers (KY) Wilson (NM) McDermott Ryan (WI) Yarmuth Bilbray Clyburn Etheridge Lungren, Daniel Rogers (MI) Wilson (OH) McGovern Salazar Young (AK) Bilirakis Coble Everett E. Ros-Lehtinen Wilson (SC) McHenry Sali Young (FL) Bishop (NY) Cohen Fallin Lynch Roskam Wolf Bishop (UT) Cole (OK) Farr Mack Ross Wu NOT VOTING—45 Blackburn Conaway Fattah Mahoney (FL) Rothman Wynn Blumenauer Conyers Feeney Maloney (NY) Roybal-Allard Yarmuth Berry Davis, Tom Kucinich Blunt Cooper Ferguson Manzullo Royce Young (AK) Bishop (GA) DeFazio LaHood Boehner Costello Filner Marchant Ruppersberger Young (FL) Brady (TX) Delahunt Langevin Bonner Courtney Forbes Brown, Corrine Grijalva Larson (CT) Bono Cramer Fortenberry NAYS—4 Brown-Waite, Gutierrez Lucas Boozman Cuellar Fossella Ginny Hastert Boren Culberson Foxx Broun (GA) Paul Marshall Flake Rohrabacher Capps Herger Murphy (CT) Boswell Cummings Frank (MA) Carson Honda Neal (MA) Boucher Davis (AL) Franks (AZ) Cleaver Hunter Boustany Davis (CA) Frelinghuysen NOT VOTING—39 Peterson (PA) Costa Jindal Boyd (FL) Davis (IL) Gallegly Berry Capps Cubin Pickering Crenshaw Johnson (IL) Boyda (KS) Davis (KY) Garrett (NJ) Bishop (GA) Carson Davis, Jo Ann Pomeroy Crowley Johnson, E. B. Brady (PA) Davis, David Gerlach Brown, Corrine Costa Davis, Tom Cubin Johnson, Sam Pryce (OH) Brady (TX) Davis, Lincoln Giffords Brown-Waite, Crenshaw Delahunt Davis, Jo Ann Kennedy Braley (IA) Deal (GA) Gilchrest Ginny Crowley Grijalva

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.039 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10736 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 Gutierrez Kucinich Snyder Emanuel Lee Rogers (MI) NOT VOTING—42 Hastert LaHood Stupak Emerson Levin Rohrabacher Berry Gutierrez Neal (MA) Herger Langevin Tiahrt Engel Lewis (CA) Ros-Lehtinen Bishop (GA) Hastert Pickering Honda Lucas Towns English (PA) Lewis (GA) Roskam Brown, Corrine Herger Poe Hunter Murphy (CT) Eshoo Lewis (KY) Ross Waters Brown-Waite, Honda Jindal Neal (MA) Etheridge Linder Pomeroy Westmoreland Rothman Ginny Jindal Johnson (IL) Pickering Everett Lipinski Pryce (OH) Woolsey Roybal-Allard Capps Johnson (IL) Johnson, E. B. Pomeroy Fallin LoBiondo Sessions Royce Carson Johnson, E. B. Johnson, Sam Pryce (OH) Farr Loebsack Snyder Ruppersberger Costa Johnson, Sam Fattah Lofgren, Zoe Stupak Rush Crenshaw Kucinich ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Feeney Lowey Tiahrt Ryan (OH) Crowley LaHood Ferguson Lungren, Daniel Towns The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Ryan (WI) Cubin Lantos Filner E. Waters the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Salazar Davis, Jo Ann Lucas Flake Lynch Sali Davis, Tom Manzullo Westmoreland ing in this vote. Forbes Mack Sa´ nchez, Linda Delahunt McCarthy (NY) Whitfield Fortenberry Mahoney (FL) b 1912 T. Grijalva Murphy (CT) Fossella Maloney (NY) Sanchez, Loretta Foxx Marchant Sarbanes ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Frank (MA) Markey Saxton tive) the rules were suspended and the Franks (AZ) Marshall The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Schakowsky Frelinghuysen Matheson the vote). Members are advised 2 min- bill was passed. Schiff Gallegly Matsui The result of the vote was announced Schmidt utes remain in this vote. Garrett (NJ) McCarthy (CA) Schwartz as above recorded. Gerlach McCaul (TX) A motion to reconsider was laid on Giffords McCollum (MN) Scott (GA) b 1919 Scott (VA) the table. Gilchrest McCotter So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Gillibrand McCrery Sensenbrenner Serrano tive) the rules were suspended and the f Gingrey McDermott Gohmert McGovern Sestak resolution was agreed to. Gonzalez McHenry Shadegg The result of the vote was announced EXPRESSING SENSE OF THE Shays Goode McHugh as above recorded. HOUSE OF THE IMPORTANCE OF Goodlatte McIntyre Shea-Porter PROVIDING A VOICE FOR VIC- Gordon McKeon Sherman A motion to reconsider was laid on TIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN- Granger McMorris Shimkus the table. VOLVED IN MISSING PERSONS Graves Rodgers Shuler Green, Al McNerney Shuster f AND UNIDENTIFIED HUMAN RE- Green, Gene McNulty Simpson MAINS CASES Hall (NY) Meek (FL) Sires Hall (TX) Meeks (NY) Skelton PERSONAL EXPLANATION The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Hare Melancon Slaughter Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- finished business is the vote on the mo- Harman Mica Smith (NE) avoidably absent from this chamber today. I tion to suspend the rules and agree to Hastings (FL) Michaud Smith (NJ) Hastings (WA) would like the RECORD to show that, had I the resolution, H. Res. 340, on which Miller (FL) Smith (TX) Hayes Miller (MI) Smith (WA) been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on the yeas and nays were ordered. Heller Miller (NC) Solis rollcall votes 891, 892, 893, and 894. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Hensarling Miller, Gary Souder Herseth Sandlin Miller, George tion. Space f Higgins Mitchell Spratt The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Hill Mollohan Stark question is on the motion offered by Hinchey Moore (KS) Stearns MESSAGE FROM THE SENATE the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Hinojosa Moore (WI) Sullivan Hirono Moran (KS) A message from the Senate by Ms. SCOTT) that the House suspend the Sutton Hobson Moran (VA) Tancredo Curtis, one of its clerks, announced rules and agree to the resolution, H. Hodes Murphy, Patrick Tanner that the Senate has passed a bill of the Hoekstra Murphy, Tim Res. 340. Tauscher Holden Murtha following title in which the concur- This is a 5-minute vote. Taylor Holt Musgrave rence of the House is requested: Terry The vote was taken by electronic de- Hooley Myrick Thompson (CA) S. 456. An act to increase and enhance law Hoyer Nadler vice, and there were—yeas 389, nays 1, Thompson (MS) enforcement resources committed to inves- Hulshof Napolitano not voting 42, as follows: Thornberry Hunter Neugebauer tigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to Tiberi [Roll No. 894] Inglis (SC) Nunes deter and punish violent gang crime, to pro- Tierney Inslee Oberstar tect law-abiding citizens and communities YEAS—389 Turner Israel Obey from violent criminals, to revise and en- Udall (CO) Abercrombie Boswell Cole (OK) Issa Olver hance criminal penalties for violent crimes, Ackerman Boucher Conaway Jackson (IL) Ortiz Udall (NM) Aderholt Boustany Conyers Upton to expand and improve gang prevention pro- Jackson-Lee Pallone grams, and for other purposes. Akin Boyd (FL) Cooper (TX) Pascrell Van Hollen ´ Alexander Boyda (KS) Costello Jefferson Pastor Velazquez The message also announced that the Allen Brady (PA) Courtney Johnson (GA) Payne Visclosky Senate agrees to the report of the com- Altmire Brady (TX) Cramer Jones (NC) Pearce Walberg Andrews Braley (IA) Cuellar Jones (OH) Pence Walden (OR) mittee of conference on the disagreeing Arcuri Broun (GA) Culberson Jordan Perlmutter Walsh (NY) votes of the two Houses on the amend- Baca Brown (SC) Cummings Kagen Peterson (MN) Walz (MN) ment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. Bachmann Buchanan Davis (AL) Wamp Kanjorski Peterson (PA) 1495) ‘‘An Act to provide for the con- Bachus Burgess Davis (CA) Kaptur Petri Wasserman Baird Burton (IN) Davis (IL) Keller Pitts Schultz servation and development of water Baker Butterfield Davis (KY) Kennedy Platts Watson and related resources, to authorize the Baldwin Buyer Davis, David Kildee Porter Watt Secretary of the Army to construct Barrett (SC) Calvert Davis, Lincoln Kilpatrick Price (GA) Waxman Barrow Camp (MI) Deal (GA) Kind Price (NC) Weiner various projects for improvements to Bartlett (MD) Campbell (CA) DeFazio King (IA) Putnam Welch (VT) rivers and harbors of the United Barton (TX) Cannon DeGette King (NY) Radanovich Weldon (FL) States, and for other purposes.’’. Bean Cantor DeLauro Kingston Rahall Weller Becerra Capito Dent Kirk Ramstad Wexler f Berkley Capuano Diaz-Balart, L. Klein (FL) Rangel Wicker Berman Cardoza Diaz-Balart, M. Kline (MN) Regula Wilson (NM) Biggert Carnahan Dicks Knollenberg Rehberg Wilson (OH) REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER Bilbray Carney Dingell Kuhl (NY) Reichert Wilson (SC) AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 661 Bilirakis Carter Doggett Lamborn Renzi Wolf Bishop (NY) Castle Donnelly Lampson Reyes Woolsey Mr. TERRY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- Bishop (UT) Castor Doolittle Langevin Reynolds Wu imous consent to have my name re- Blackburn Chabot Doyle Larsen (WA) Richardson Wynn Blumenauer Chandler Drake moved as a cosponsor of H.R. 661, to Larson (CT) Rodriguez Yarmuth which I was mistakenly added. Blunt Clarke Dreier Latham Rogers (AL) Young (AK) Boehner Clay Duncan LaTourette Rogers (KY) Young (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Bonner Cleaver Edwards objection to the request of the gen- Bono Clyburn Ehlers NAYS—1 Boozman Coble Ellison tleman from Nebraska? Boren Cohen Ellsworth Paul There was no objection.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.044 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10737 FORECLOSURE TAX RELIEF ACT RECOGNIZING AND HONORING and I offer my deepest, heartfelt condo- (Mr. BISHOP of New York asked and LINDA LOIZZO, NORTH MIAMI lences to his family. BEACH CHIEF OF POLICE was given permission to address the f House for 1 minute.) (Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ asked Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. Speak- and was given permission to address HONORING THE LITTLE ROCK NINE the House for 1 minute and to revise er, I rise tonight as a proud cosponsor (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked and extend her remarks.) of the Foreclosure Tax Relief Act. I and was given permission to address Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. commend its cosponsor, my colleague the House for 1 minute.) Speaker, I rise tonight to recognize from Ohio, Mr. SPACE, as well as the Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. City of North Miami Chief of Police, chairman of the Ways and Means Com- Speaker, I rise today enthusiastically Linda Loizzo. Linda is a true trail- mittee, Mr. RANGEL, for agreeing to and very humbly to honor the Little blazer. She has served the North Miami take up legislation that would give a Rock Nine in the 50th year of the very Police Department for more than 33 tax break to middle-class homeowners brave nine young men and women who years in a number of capacities: deputy who have been caught up in the exemplified courage to stand for what chief, assistant chief of operations, subprime mortgage fallout. is right in America, and that is equal- major in charge of administrative serv- Nearly 3,000 homeowners in Suffolk ity and justice and the opportunity for ices, commander in charge of the inves- County, New York alone, that’s one out all to be educated. tigative division, and supervisor of sev- of every 180 homes in my district, have Armed with a Federal Court order on eral special support services units. joined 2.2 million families nationwide September 23, 1957, these children went Linda was the first woman promoted whose subprime loans have already off to Little Rock High School. Turned to the rank of sergeant, the first failed or will end in foreclosure. Adding back by a protest and viciousness, they woman promoted to rank of lieutenant insult to injury, they face massive tax then went with Federal troops given to and major, and the first woman pro- bills once any portion of their mort- them by President Dwight D. Eisen- moted to the rank of chief of police for gage is cancelled. The IRS treats that hower. Their names were Minnijean the North Miami Beach Police Depart- forgiven debt as income and can even Brown, Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest ment. Chief Loizzo not only broke tack on interest and penalties. Green, Thelma Mothershed, Melba down walls in a male-dominated profes- In response to this unfair phantom Pattillo, Gloria Ray, Terrence Roberts, sion, but she also shattered and crum- tax, the Foreclosure Tax Relief Act Jefferson Thomas and Carlotta Walls. bled stereotypes for women in all pro- would set the tax exclusion for middle- I support the legislation. And al- fessions, and particularly those in law class families up to $50,000 in forgiven though it is not the same, we now need enforcement. debt on first mortgages and primary Federal intervention for the Jena Six. I congratulate Chief Loizzo on her re- residences. Therefore, I urge my col- We need justice for these young people. tirement and thank her for her dedi- leagues to support foreclosure tax re- We need to be able to understand that cated service to our community. lief legislation. these children are now being treated as f the children were treated some 50 years f HONORING THE LIFE OF ago. SPECIALIST DANE R. BALCON Justice for Little Rock Nine and jus- GLENVIEW GOOD GUYS tice for Jena Six. (Mr. LAMBORN asked and was given (Mr. KIRK asked and was given per- permission to address the House for 1 f mission to address the House for 1 minute.) minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I rise SPEAKING OUT AGAINST THE U.S.- marks.) today to honor the life of Specialist PERU FREE TRADE AGREEMENT Mr. KIRK. Mr. Speaker, 2 weeks ago Dane R. Balcon, who passed away on (Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- an incredible act of bravery took place September 5, 2007, in Balad, Iraq, in fornia asked and was given permission in my district. Last Saturday, three support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. to address the House for 1 minute.) high school students were stopped at a Specialist Balcon died of injuries sus- Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- train crossing in Glenview, Illinois. At tained when an improvised explosive fornia. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to 8:30, as Glenbrook South High School device detonated near his vehicle. join my colleagues in speaking out senior Tom Foust and sophomores Dane’s mother, Carla, resides in Colo- against the U.S.-Peru Free Trade Tyler Brown and Zach Demertzis rado Springs, Colorado, and his father, Agreement. This is not a choice be- reached the intersection, they noticed John, lives in Miami, Florida. tween trade and protectionism. It is a an 83-year-old woman in her vehicle From an early age, Dane dreamed of choice between fair trade, which can stopped on the tracks. It was clear the the opportunity to serve his country. benefit working families across the Na- car was stuck, spinning her tires in the His path to the military began at Sand tion, and unfair trade, which benefits gravel. Creek High School in Colorado Springs, the wealthiest few at expense of the At that moment, warning bells rang. where he joined the Army ROTC pro- rest of us. The three young men rushed to the car gram. The assistant principal at Sand I cannot support, and I urge my col- and tried to help her move it. They Creek remembered Dane as an out- leagues not to support, this Bush-nego- didn’t know how quickly the train was standing person and someone who had tiated Peru Free Trade Agreement. It coming, at 79 miles an hour. When the an absolute love for the military and uses the same North American Free woman did not leave, Tom reached in serving his country. Immediately fol- Trade Agreement model that has al- the vehicle and unclipped her seat belt. lowing graduation, Dane enlisted in the ready failed working families here and He pulled her out and got only 10 feet Army. abroad. from the southbound train when it de- Specialist Balcon comes from a proud I feel like I am at a used car lot and molished the car, spraying glass and tradition of military service. Both his the dealer is trying to sell the Amer- metal everywhere. The car was pushed mother and father served in the mili- ican people a beat-up old lemon with a into the northbound tracks and was tary. I am grateful for their service and new paint job. Well, we learned with immediately hit again by another train their selfless dedication to this great NAFTA that there are no refunds for going in the opposite direction. Nation. the American people when they are No one on the ground was injured. Specialist Balcon was a remarkable sold a bad bill of goods. Tom, Tyler, and Zach saved this wom- soldier and a devoted son who honor- Let’s learn from our mistakes and re- an’s life. I know I speak for the entire ably served the Nation he loved. Mak- ject this Peru FTA junker. The Amer- 10th District when I say how proud we ing the ultimate sacrifice, he died pro- ican people deserve trade that works are of the Glenview Good Guys, new he- tecting our freedom and security. for working families, and the Peru FTA roes. Our community is very lucky to I thank him, Specialist Dane R. won’t give us that. Vote ‘‘no’’ on the have them. Balcon, for his service to our country, Peru FTA.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.075 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10738 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 VOTE ‘‘NO’’ ON THE U.S.-PERU zens. Patients throughout the United OPPOSE PERU FREE TRADE FREE TRADE AGREEMENT States depend on medical imaging be- AGREEMENT (Mr. HARE asked and was given per- cause it often detects critical illnesses The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a mission to address the House for 1 at their most curable stage when they previous order of the House, the gen- minute.) are less costly to treat. Better, less tleman from Maine (Mr. MICHAUD) is Mr. HARE. Mr. Speaker, I rise this invasive care often means easier recov- recognized for 5 minutes. evening to encourage all of my col- eries and greater patient comfort are Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, on the leagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on the Peru Free additional reasons why drastic cuts to eve of the Ways and Means Committee Trade Agreement. I just lost the third medical imaging do not serve the pa- markup on the Peru free trade agree- of four clothing factories in my district tient well. ment, I rise tonight in strong opposi- on Friday; hardworking men and Medical imaging is an overall cost- tion to the Peru free trade agreement. women thrown out of work not because saver for patients and the health care I am extremely disappointed there they couldn’t do the job, but because system in general because it results in will be no formal committee hearing they couldn’t compete. fewer complications, earlier detection, on the Peru free trade agreement. The We have a responsibility as Members, shorter hospital stays, and better pain last hearing for the Peru free trade whether you are Republican or Demo- management. agreement in the Ways and Means crat, from whatever State you come Committee was held in 2006. Our goal should be keeping our work- Given that the administration and from, to stand up for the American ers healthy and on the job by helping workers. I can’t go back to my district leadership announced proposed changes them avoid surgery, long recuperation to the trade model in May, I believe it and I will not go back to my district and disability. For this reason, signifi- and try to explain to my workers who is critical to have a full hearing on the cant cuts to medical imaging are not Peru trade agreement. The diversity of are losing their jobs, if you will just the solution. That is why I ask your wait until we pass another trade deal viewpoints on the Peru FTA have not support and need it for H.R. 1293, Ac- been significantly heard by Members. that this President is not going to en- cess to Medical Care Imaging Act of force. Many of the newly elected freshmen 2007. My legislation would suspend for 2 Members campaigned on a platform of I urge all of my colleagues to please years drastic cuts to critical diagnostic vote ‘‘no’’ on the Peru Free Trade ensuring a significant change of course imaging services provided in physi- from the Bush trade policy. Agreement when it comes up. We can cians’ offices and imaging centers. do much better, we owe it to our work- The Peru free trade agreement is ers, and we will do much better. The cuts were agreed to with little based on the same flawed NAFTA and public debate by the U.S. House of Rep- CAFTA model that has been so dev- f resentatives, yet they account for more astating to industries across the Na- b 1930 than one-third of the Medicare cuts in tion. the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. Fur- When I campaigned for my seat 5 SPECIAL ORDERS thermore, as was directly pointed out years ago, the cornerstone of my cam- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under by Members on both sides of the aisle paign was fixing our broken trade poli- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- during the Energy and Health Sub- cies. I have seen firsthand what they uary 18, 2007, and under a previous committee hearing on July 18 last have done to the State of Maine. I order of the House, the following Mem- year, the policy was not recommended firmly believe in order to address our bers will be recognized for 5 minutes to Congress by MedPAC or CMS, and trade imbalance, we have to change the each. there has been no analysis of the im- trade model. The Peru FTA is the same old model with a little lipstick. f pact of the cuts on seniors’ access to imaging services. There is overwhelming opposition to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a the agreement by unions, consumers, previous order of the House, the gentle- Unfortunately, despite broad bipar- small business, and environmental woman from California (Ms. WATERS) is tisan support in Congress to delay the groups. They are all asking Congress to recognized for 5 minutes. DRA policy, the DRA imaging cuts oppose the Peru FTA. (Ms. WATERS addressed the House. went into effect in January of this Who supports this deal? Big Business Her remarks will appear hereafter in year. My legislation would place a 2- does. When Tom Donahue, president of the Extensions of Remarks.) year hold on the implementation of the the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, states f cuts and require a comprehensive GAO that he is ‘‘encouraged by assurances study on patient access and service that the labor provisions cannot be MEDICAL IMAGING SERVICES issues relating to the availability and read to require compliance with ILO The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a quality of imaging services in physi- conventions,’’ we should be very skep- previous order of the House, the gentle- cian offices and imaging clinics with tical. woman from New York (Mrs. MCCAR- special attention to seniors living in While we have all heard that the THY) is recognized for 5 minutes. rural and medically underserved areas. Peru agreement text improves labor Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. Mr. Please join over 150 of my colleagues and environmental standards, we fail Speaker, I rise today and ask my col- and become a cosponsor of H.R. 1293. to hear that they are added upon the leagues to support legislation reversing People have to understand sometimes old NAFTA and CAFTA text. The bot- the dangerous cuts made to medical the cuts that we make around here are tom line: this is another Bush NAFTA imaging services by the last Congress. not in the best interest certainly of our expansion. The incorporation of imaging tech- constituents. Spending most of my life Key unions are worried about the nology into medical practice has trans- as a nurse, preventive care is better labor provisions. The new provisions formed physician practice, patient than letting it go. That is why our require countries to adopt, maintain, care, and improved health outcomes for health care costs are so high. We need and enforce only the terms of the ILO millions of Americans. to do a better job of making sure that declaration on fundamental principles Unfortunately, the Deficit Reduction our constituents are served. and rights at work. The new FTA lan- Act last Congress slashed funding for guage does not require signatories to imaging services. These dangerous cuts f meet the ILO conventions. These are mean that women will have difficulty the binding standards; the declarations getting a mammogram. Doctors will The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a are nonbinding. It is highly likely that begin to phase out imaging services be- previous order of the House, the gen- changes in the environment and labor cause the reimbursement rate will tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) is recog- provisions will have no real effect on cause them to lose money. nized for 5 minutes. the ground. While these cuts may have saved the (Mr. POE addressed the House. His We all know that the Bush adminis- government money, it has increased remarks will appear hereafter in the tration has a long record of not enforc- the health risks of our Nation’s citi- Extensions of Remarks.) ing the standards of past trade deals.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.076 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10739 Why would they start now? There are ongoing. But we can’t start either of cus Special Order message hour today so many problems with the Peru FTA, these while we are funding this admin- that will focus on SCHIP as well as the whether it is the privatization of So- istration’s occupation. Jena Six. cial Security, ban on anti-offshoring, Despite the bravery of our men and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there or failure to protect our intellectual women in uniform, we all know that we objection to the request of the gentle- property rights, there are more than can’t bring peace and stability to an- woman from Ohio? enough reasons to oppose the Peru other country down the barrel of a gun. There was no objection. FTA. A recent report by the Congressional Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I could go on, but I do not have the Progressive Caucus found that this today 50 million Americans have no time. I ask my colleagues to really lis- misdirection of funds may actually be health insurance, including more than ten to what America is saying about endangering our own homeland. Each 8 million children. Eight out of 10 unin- these trade deals. I am asking Members of my colleagues can go to my Web sured Americans either work or are in to vote their conscience to oppose the site, www.Woolsey.house.gov, and find working families. Sadly, many of those Peru free trade agreement. out what it is costing their congres- uninsured and underinsured are Afri- can American. f sional district. Being uninsured means going with- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a My district of Marin and Sonoma out needed care. It means minor ill- previous order of the House, the gen- counties in California have already nesses become major ones because care tleman from North Carolina (Mr. paid $1.3 billion for the occupation of Iraq. That could have paid for nearly is delayed. Tragically, it means that JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. one significant medical expense can (Mr. JONES of North Carolina ad- 25,000 public safety officers or nearly wipe out a family’s life savings. There dressed the House. His remarks will ap- 18,000 port container inspectors to pro- are millions of working uninsured pear hereafter in the Extensions of Re- vide real security for our homeland. Americans who go to bed every night marks.) Instead of passing on a war deficit to our children and grandchildren, we worrying about what will happen to f could have been investing in their fu- them and their families if a major ill- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ture and, Mr. Speaker, we must. So far ness or injury strikes. previous order of the House, the gen- in paying for the occupation, we could In my home State of Ohio, there are tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is have paid for 20,000 more elementary currently 1,362,000 uninsured, an in- recognized for 5 minutes. school teachers, or we could have pro- crease of 18,000 people since 2003. We (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. vided almost 500,000 more children with have also seen the strain on many of His remarks will appear hereafter in health care, or 200,000 college scholar- the local hospitals in my district when the Extensions of Remarks.) ships to worthy students. people are forced to use emergency f America’s working families have de- rooms as their source of primary care. The problem is getting worse. As the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a manded, they went to the polls in No- price of health care continues to rise, previous order of the House, the gen- vember, they want us to end this occu- fewer individuals and families can af- tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is pation. They want real investment in ford to pay for coverage. Fewer small recognized for 5 minutes. their own communities. They want this businesses are able to provide coverage (Mr. BURTON of Indiana addressed Congress to stand up to the White for their employees, and those that do the House. His remarks will appear House and demand that our troops and are struggling to hold on to the cov- hereafter in the Extensions of Re- military contractors be brought home, erage they offer. It is a problem that marks.) not in 10 years, not in 50 years. They want our troops home in a safe and or- affects all of us, and we cannot sit idly f derly responsible manner by the holi- by while the people of this country ESCALATION IN IRAQ WAR COSTS days. continue to go without health insur- Enough of the endless occupation. ance. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Enough of the misspent billions. Tomorrow, we will have an oppor- previous order of the House, the gentle- Enough is enough, Mr. Speaker. Let’s tunity to expand one of the most effec- woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) bring the troops home. Let’s provide tive government programs imple- is recognized for 5 minutes. for a secure future for American and mented in the last decade, the State Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise Iraqi families. Children’s Health Insurance Program, tonight to draw attention to the surge, f or SCHIP. SCHIP is a joint State-Fed- or escalation, of the occupation of Iraq. eral program created in order to pro- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a This time it is not an escalation of vide health insurance to children in previous order of the House, the gentle- troops; it is the escalation in spending low-income households whose income, woman from Florida (Ms. GINNY to continue this senseless, apparently although meager, was still above Med- BROWN-WAITE) is recognized for 5 min- endless occupation. icaid eligibility. Recent estimates put the cost of the utes. military actions in Iraq and Afghani- (Mrs. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of b 1945 stan at $808 billion by the end of this Florida addressed the House. Her re- Currently, the program allows for year. That’s just knocking on the door marks will appear hereafter in the Ex- States to provide health insurance to of $1 trillion, Mr. Speaker. Let me say tensions of Remarks.) families whose household income is up that again: we are closing in on $1 tril- f to 200 percent of the poverty level. In lion, and we haven’t even begun to put CBC DISCUSSES SCHIP AND THE 2006, SCHIP provided coverage to over together a plan to bring our troops JENA SIX 6.7 million children, and although it home. has been successful since its inception, This administration has talked about The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under there are still 9 million children with- a Korean- or Vietnam-like presence in the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- out any health insurance, many of Iraq. This could mean as much as 50 uary 18, 2007, the gentlewoman from whom are minorities. Currently, more more years of U.S. boots on the ground. Ohio (Mrs. JONES) is recognized for 60 than 80 percent of the uninsured Afri- Conservative estimates put just one minutes as the designee of the major- can American children and 70 percent more decade of military spending at ity leader. of the Hispanic children are eligible for $1.5 trillion. Who knows what it will be GENERAL LEAVE SCHIP but not enrolled. after 20 or 30 or 50 years. Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I It gives me great pleasure to lead The United States has an obligation, ask unanimous consent that Members this special hour this evening on behalf both moral and political, to help the may have 5 legislative days in which to of the Congressional Black Caucus, and people of Iraq to rebuild their nation. revise and extend their remarks and in- I’m pleased at this time to yield time Whether through reconciliation or re- clude extraneous materials on the sub- to my colleague and good friend BAR- construction, our commitment must be jects of the Congressional Black Cau- BARA LEE from California.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.081 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10740 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 Ms. LEE. First, Mr. Speaker, let me was the California SCHIP initiative. Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, let me just thank my colleagues from the We were then and continue to be com- begin by also expressing my accolades Congressional Black Caucus for their mitted to extending the reach of the to the gentlewoman who is chairing leadership, especially our Chair, Con- program as much as possible with the this Special Order tonight from the gresswoman CAROLYN KILPATRICK, who available resources, and now Healthy great city of Cleveland in Ohio. has done such a wonderful job keeping Families in California provides low- As you know, she has served with dis- us focused on ‘‘Changing Course, Con- cost access to health care for over tinction in the past in the judicial sys- fronting Crises and Continuing the 800,000 children, more than any other tem as a judge. She is a former pros- Legacy.’’ State. ecutor, of course, and esteemed attor- I also want to thank the Chair of our The flexibility built into SCHIP has ney, and she now heads the very dif- Ethics Committee, Congresswoman allowed California to provide access to ficult Ethics Committee, which really STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES for her leader- health, dental and vision coverage for says that of all of the people in this ship on so many issues and also for her the children that it serves, and we body, it was deemed that she was the service on the House Ways and Means must continue to support that vital most qualified and suitable, in addition Committee. She has truly made history mission. to qualifications you need to be suited as the first African American woman Providing health care coverage for for a position, and so I commend you serving on that committee, and as we our children is one of the most cost-ef- for that. heard tonight, her commitment to chil- fective investments that America can Also, as I previously mentioned, dren’s health care is remarkable, and make. Children are the least costly to we’re very pleased with the Congres- she has done so much on behalf of our provide coverage for, and giving chil- sional Black Caucus as it continues to children, and so I thank Mrs. JONES for dren access to adequate primary health be the conscience of the Congress. Our her leadership and for this Special care will create a generation of chairperson from the great city of De- Order. healthier, better educated and, in the troit, Representative KILPATRICK, is Let me first rise in solidarity with end, more productive adults. doing an outstanding job. the tens of thousands of people around Under the Bush administration, the Today, I rise to speak briefly on two our Nation who took to the streets last number of uninsured Americans has subjects. First of all, I rise to speak about my support for the reauthorization of the week to protest the miscarriage of jus- continued to grow. Employers continue State Children’s Health Insurance Program, tice that has taken place in Jena, Lou- to cut coverage and shift more of the SCHIP, which expands and increases health isiana. burden to employees as costs continue insurance coverage for low-income children Students in my district are as out- to rise, but the SCHIP program has and improves the quality of health care that raged as students throughout the coun- slowed the growth for our Nation’s our children receive. But we need to pass a try. The case of the Jena Six is yet an- children. bill that fully funds and covers all eligible other example of the institutional rac- Additionally, comprehensive health children. How could the richest Nation in the ism in our criminal justice system, and coverage for children is an important world do less than to provide for its young? it is unacceptable. step towards eliminating the growing, It is critical and important because they are our future. We have come so far from the days of continuing, huge health disparities Today, our Nation is facing a health Jim Crow, but incidents like this one that plague minority populations, in- care crisis. Existing private insurance should serve as a solemn reminder of cluding 800,000 Asian Pacific Ameri- options are becoming increasingly less just how much further we must go in cans, 1.4 million African Americans, affordable for families, and 45 million seeking liberty and justice for all. and 3.4 million Latinos. individuals remain uninsured in our Just with Katrina, the Jena Six dem- Minority children make up more country, 9 million of whom are chil- onstrates in a glaring and tragic man- than 5 million of the 9 million unin- dren. The State Children’s Health In- ner the unfinished business of America. sured children. These children are more surance Program and Medicaid have Unfortunately, these are issues in than twice as likely as white children been successful in providing 6 million many instances of black and white. to die before their first birthday, and children with health care coverage. If we are ever to overcome the tragic these mortality rates are a direct re- In considering the reauthorization of legacy of racism in this Nation, we sult of these children being uninsured. SCHIP, we must build on past bipar- have a duty to our young people to see So, quite frankly, I think it’s two tisan success and work together to en- to it that the principle of equal justice months of the funding for this occupa- sure coverage for the 9 million children is upheld. If we truly believe in our Na- tion of Iraq, this funding would cover who remain uninsured. tion’s principle of equality under the every child in America for a year. It is I am proud to say that New Jersey law, then we must make sure that ev- a tragedy that children’s health care has made significant progress in pro- eryone, regardless of race, is held equal has not been funded at the level that viding health insurance for its chil- under the law. we’re funding the occupation of Iraq. dren. However, the progress cannot be There are Jenas everywhere in Amer- Now, unfortunately, I have to say it maintained unless we reauthorize legis- ica, and it’s not just where nooses are seems like the President is waging war lation which meets the real needs of hung from trees. Just look at the injus- against our children, and I hope that children and for children’s health cov- tice and the ramifications of manda- the American people hold him account- erage, including addressing the unique tory minimum sentences and three able. needs of children with disabilities. strikes laws. Young black men have re- I thank you for organizing this Spe- According to a study released by ceived sentences under these laws to- cial Order tonight. Families USA, the number of unin- tally disproportionate to the crime Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I sured children in my home State of committed. It’s time for America to thank my good friend from the great New Jersey could be reduced by 100,000 wake up and begin to complete this un- State of California, Congresswoman Statewide if SCHIP is fully reauthor- finished business. BARBARA LEE. ized. Now, let me just briefly talk about It gives me great pleasure at this Without this legislation, New Jersey children’s health care and say in no un- time to yield time to my good friend has more to lose than most States, un- certain terms that it’s really incred- from the great State of New Jersey. He fortunately. Why? Because New Jersey ibly irresponsible and downright is a leader in international relations did the right thing by increasing shameful that the President really does and is now the Chair of a new sub- SCHIP eligibility to 3.5 times the Fed- not support children’s health care. committee called Global Health as part eral poverty level because of the cost SCHIP is one of the most successful of the International Relations Com- of living, which is higher in New Jer- programs in our Nation, facilitating mittee. I give you my good friend and sey, especially housing costs. Simi- coverage for 6 million children. When I the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. larly, New Jersey enrolled low-income was in the State legislature, along with DONALD PAYNE). parents in part because research has Congresswoman HILDA SOLIS and now- (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given shown that this results in more low-in- Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, we wrote permission to revise and extend his re- come children being enrolled in the the Healthy Families program, which marks.) program.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.088 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10741 However, instead of being rewarded sense of common decency? Three days may consume to the gentlewoman from for these actions, under the Bush ad- of in-school suspension for the culprits the Virgin Islands, DONNA ministration’s proposal, over 28,000 of this prank equates to a slap on the CHRISTENSEN. children and 80,000 parents Statewide wrist. That punishment says shame on Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Thank you for could lose their health care coverage. you but really means no harm, no foul. yielding, Congresswoman, and for lead- ing this Special Order so we can speak In addition, thousands more children b 2000 who are eligible now but not partici- of these issues of importance to our pating would never be able to enroll in Yet, after almost 4 months of constituents. And let me join my other the program. underwhelming reactions from the colleagues in applauding our chair- Mr. Speaker, the Federal Govern- school administration who are sup- woman, Congresswoman CAROLYN ment must be a responsible partner in posed to protect and advocate for the CHEEKS KILPATRICK, for setting aside terms of State health coverage initia- students under their care, the school this hour, and let you know again how tives. Forty years ago, Medicare elimi- imploded. proud we are, how proud you make all nated the problem of the uninsured While I do not condone violence as a Americans as the first black woman on among the elderly. I believe we have an solution, couldn’t something have hap- the Ways and Means Committee and opportunity to take steps to do the pened before we even arrived at this also as Chair of the Ethics Committee. same now with our children by fully re- point? Yes, one student was injured, Tonight, this hour is devoted to two authorizing this vital health care pro- and thankfully he has recovered. But topics, the Jena Six case and the Chil- gram. attempted second degree murder, sec- dren’s Health Insurance Program. As I Mr. Speaker, my commitment to ond degree aggravated battery and con- tried to decide which one of these com- children’s health care is solid, and I spiracy? pelling and imminent issues to speak urge that we support a bill that fully The Jena school administration and on, it occurred to me that there is a reauthorizes, not half, not a quarter, the local legal system cannot run hot connection between the two. Both deal not three-quarters, but fully author- and cold while doling out punishments. with the well-being of our children and izes, and I hope that the bill that They have the responsibility to be ob- this Nation’s responsibility to provide comes before us will do just that. jective and fair, and not play with the equal opportunity for them for a life of Now, if I may speak for a few min- people’s lives like they are pawns in a quality and of achievement. utes on the Jena Six. chess game. The punishment must fit With the case of Michael Bell, who Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Absolutely, the crime. We are dealing with lives remains locked up with no bail, as well please proceed. here, especially the lives of young peo- as the other five Jena High School stu- Mr. PAYNE. Thank you very much. ple who still have a lot ahead of them. dents, this country is witnessing first- Because we stand here on the 50th an- Threatening to take their lives away at hand the kind of injustice perpetrated niversary of school desegregation in the stroke of a pen does not ring of the on far too many African American chil- the South and 43 years ago after the necessary objectivity and fairness be- dren which results in the destroying signing of the civil rights bill of 1964. fitting a district attorney who looked their dreams, their hopes, and their However, recent events, particularly at the black students and said, by the lives. It is time for the good people of in the last 2 years, give credence to the stroke of this pen I can have your fu- this country to rise up and say, no saying that all that glitters is not gold. ture of your life. more. So I want to thank the leader- Although we thought we were making And so as I conclude, Martin Luther ship of the CBC and all of our members tremendous progress, still many prob- King said, injustice anywhere is a for answering the call of these young lems remain. threat to justice everywhere. We are people. I thank the Reverend Jesse Two years ago, New Orleans washed caught in an inescapable network of Jackson, the Reverend Al Sharpton, away, exposing undertones of class and mutuality, tied in a single garment of the others of the faith leadership, the race that did not go away with the destiny. Whatever affects one directly, NAACP, and the thousands who signing of those two momentous de- affects all indirectly. marched in protest, for standing up and crees, Brown v. the Board of Ed and the As Members of Congress elected by standing with the Jena Six and for jus- Civil Rights Act of 1964. the people to represent them and to tice. In Jena, Louisiana, the issue of race, promulgate laws on their behalf, we These young people and Genarlo Wil- which had been simmering below the have to speak out against these types son of Georgia are just seven of the surface, had reached the boiling point of injustices that threaten the very countless others who have faced and late last year. Can you imagine that an foundation upon which this Nation continue to face the same fate, and we act of sitting under the unspoken white stands, equal treatment under the law. must never stop the work of protecting only tree will garner the reaction of If we fail to speak up for these young our children. nooses? Not only nooses, but nooses men, we will be abdicating our roles for That applies also to the issue of the decorated in the school colors being which we were elected. What is to say Children’s Health Insurance Program. hung from that same tree? There’s no that my grandchildren or your child Regardless of what one hears on TV mistake the symbolism that nooses will not be the next? Let us not sheep- and radio, there are about 6 million hanging from a tree means in the not- ishly accept this type of behavior, not children now in the program, 800,000 of so-distant history of America. in the 21st century. whom would lose their insurance if we As a matter of fact, the NAACP was Mrs. JONES of Ohio. I would like to reauthorize it at the level the Presi- founded in 1909 not for full employ- thank the gentleman from New Jersey dent says he will accept. There are now ment, not for equal accommodation. for his comments. almost 9 million children who are unin- The simple, original goal was simply to Today, as I said previously, under the sured, 6 million of whom are eligible try to stop lynchings, just try to stop leadership of our Chair of the Congres- for SCHIP, the children’s insurance. lynchings, and here we have nooses put sional Black Caucus, Congresswoman The bill the Senate Republicans are under a tree that is the tree for whites CAROLYN CHEEKS KILPATRICK, this is holding us at will only add about 2 mil- only, to send a message that if you sit the CBC’s special message hour. Today lion. I believe that every eligible child here, you don’t know what might hap- our message is on the SCHIP program must be covered, even if that means a pen to you in the future. and the Jena Six. shortened reauthorization to stay While I find what those students did It gives me great pleasure to yield within the funding limits set in the to be egregious, hanging the nooses on time to my colleague and good friend Senate. the tree, I am just as disgusted and from the Virgin Islands. She is a med- And the White House and Republican dumbfounded by the reaction of the ical doctor. Prior to coming to Con- talking heads need to stop misin- school administrators. Chalking up gress, she practiced medicine right forming and distorting the truth about those actions to be a youthful stunt here in Washington, DC. She is the what we are proposing in the House bill shows a dereliction of duty by the Jena leader of the Congressional Black Cau- and even proposing in the watered school administrators. Have you no cus health brain trust. It gives me down version that the Senate has sense of history? Have you have no great pleasure to yield such time as she reached agreement on. There are no

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.089 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10742 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 upper middle class, even middle class are illegal and sometimes foolish. But of income levels, our children have a children who would be covered under rather than looking at them as adults, birth right to grow up healthy and either the House original version or the let’s apply the law to them as young strong to face the challenges of a rap- current proposal. Coverage is provided people and apply it equally so they can idly changing world. for only up to 200 percent of poverty, learn their lesson. Thank you, STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES which is where it has always been. The With a stroke of the pen and destroy- and Mr. Speaker, for the time allowed. House SCHIP I still support would just ing the lives of six young men, I think Mrs. JONES of Ohio. I am about to finally provide adequate funding to get that sends the wrong message to the yield some time to a really good friend those already eligible, but not signed world. We are asking other countries to of mine who in fact was the Chair of up, covered. model their forms of government after the Equal Employment Opportunity Our children need access to health ours here in America. And I would give Commission when I was a trial lawyer care that includes dental care, mental a caution. We have made too many at the EEOC with my earlier career. health care; and it needs to begin at mistakes, and I would say don’t take But before I do that, I want to make a the very beginning by including pre- our mistakes as part of our Western- statement with regard to Jena Six. natal care for their mothers. The Terri- style democracy. They are truly mis- I have been blessed in my lifetime to tories need to have State-like treat- takes of man, not mistakes of law. And have a lot of opportunities in the law. ment, and we must also include immi- so I would hope that, after the dem- I was an assistant county prosecutor, grant children who are legally here. onstrations, after the fury, justice will criminal division for 21⁄2 years; I was a The American people want us to pro- take place and people will be treated municipal court judge for 2 years; I was vide health care to everyone. If we can- fairly. a general jurisdiction judge for 8 years; not begin with poor children, what Mr. Speaker, our American health and I also was the Cuyahoga County kind of country are we? Do we not un- care system is failing. According to the prosecutor for 8 years before I came to derstand that, in keeping our children Census Bureau, the number of Amer- Congress. And I give that statement, healthy, we save money by preventing ican children who lack health insur- my background, so you understand the more serious chronic illness later and ance has reached a new high, 8.7 mil- breadth and the experience that I have. that we build a stronger country by en- lion. Worst of all, that number has ac- The prosecutor in Jena, as I have abling them as healthier adults to con- tually increased by 1 million just over come to understand, as with every tribute to everyone’s well-being and the previous 2 years. Meanwhile, our other prosecutor in this country, has our Nation’s strength? gross domestic product during that an ethical obligation, and it is very dif- We in the House have built consensus same period increased by $1.5 trillion. ficult when the light is shone on you. around the better bill, and that was not So at the same time our economy was Here we have a young man who has easy. We need our colleagues on the growing by that amount, 1 million been in jail more than a year, a juve- other side of the Capitol to join us on more children were losing their health nile. Now a court has said to them that the side of right. Come on, colleagues, insurance. his trial should be overturned. That let’s give our children what they need. Mr. Speaker, it is absolutely shame- prosecutor, the prosecutor in Jena, Let’s do the right thing. Let’s send the ful that, in a Nation as wealthy as should be saying to himself, duh, President a bill that is truly observing ours, we leave so many children sick should I be rethinking the position I of the wonderful human beings full of and vulnerable. It is shameful that the have taken? Should I not encourage potential that are America’s children. richest Nation in the world has an in- the judge to do justice? Should I not If he vetoes it, let it be on him, not on fant mortality rate that ranks 35th, say to that judge, grant this young us. higher than any other rich nation. It is man bail until we work this out? Mrs. JONES of Ohio. I thank the gen- shameful that while we vote for tax b 2015 tlewoman from the Virgin Islands. giveaways for the richest Americans, It gives me great pleasure at this the poorest, most vulnerable Ameri- I’m confident it’s tough on him be- time to yield for comment to my good cans are left in the lurch. cause he’s got all these other people friend from the great State of Cali- I believe we were sent here to do saying, hold your ground; do what fornia, former ambassador to Micro- more than just apply Band-Aids to this you’ve been doing. It’s a lot easier to nesia, a now Member of Congress, such situation. I think we have the responsi- hold your ground than to do what’s time as she may consumer. We are glad bility to make sure that every Amer- right. And I’m calling upon that pros- to have her here. She is in her third ican, and certainly every child, can see ecutor, the prosecutor in Jena to term, the gentlewoman from Cali- a doctor when they are injured or fall rethink, go back in a corner in his of- fornia, Congresswoman DIANE WATSON. ill. Politics is often about compromise, fice all by himself without all the pres- Ms. WATSON. Mr. Speaker, I want to but which children should we decide sure, and contemplate why he was put give a special thanks to Representative not to allow the deserving health cov- in office. STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES for coordi- erage? Which of us would be willing to Prosecutors are some of the most nating this. She certainly has shown choose between our own children, say- powerful people in this country, and her leadership ability in everything ing one can be healthy but another I’m going to encourage young people that becomes her responsibility. And I must be ill? I think this is a false, im- who are listening to me to become an thank you for the time. moral choice; and I do not believe we assistant county prosecutor. When you I want to very quickly add my re- should accept anything less than full are the prosecutor, you are vested with marks to those of my colleagues ref- coverage for every American child. so much discretion that you would erencing the Jena Six. I was horrified In my district, the economics range have the opportunity to reconsider to see us take a step backwards into a from the dangerously poor to the what’s happened with this Jena Six. period of time when there was fear and superrich. And I say ‘‘dangerously But as I move forward, I want to say hatred displayed on people’s faces and poor’’ to describe the impact of poverty to this prosecutor, all of us talk about in their actions. And certainly we on children’s health. Poor children are justice and what’s happened in our ju- know that with every crime committed at risk from disease, from crime, from dicial process, in the judicial system. there is a punishment. poor education, and many other nega- Young people need to see in judicial of- But the symbol of justice in this tive influences that stem from a pov- ficers and prosecutors justice so that country of ours, the United States of erty environment. This list goes on. they will have faith in the system. America, is a symbol that has a scale When we talk about homeland secu- Again I’m calling upon this pros- and a blindfold, because justice should rity, we really mean the people on the ecutor to rethink what he did. You be blind. And in a country that uses land. So providing a health delivery know, it’s very easy to overcharge. the rule of law as its guide post, how is system for all our children is the only When you overcharge, then you can say it that we become so unjust when we way to guarantee a strong Nation of fu- to the people, well, I charged him with are dealing with our young people? ture Americans. So let’s invest in our this, but I was able to get a plea bar- Certainly, things happen and anger children rather than in war that can gain. Justice requires, ethics require builds up and children do things that take their lives too early, so regardless that the prosecutor apply the law to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.090 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10743 the facts and then make a decision not since I was a kid in the Student to do. But this school has gone through with regard to what the charge should Nonviolent Coordinating Committee four lockdowns over this event; the be. did I see a demonstration that was gen- local newspaper suggesting that the In this instance, again, I call upon erally led by young people. The orga- parents who tried to raise the issue at this prosecutor to take a look at the nized Civil Rights Movement played its a school board meeting soon thereafter circumstances. High school kids. And part. But nobody who looked at those and were denied were the cause of the we’ve seen fights among high school television pictures can have any doubt unrest. And there has been unrest. kids where the fights get rough and about who organized this extraordinary The expulsion hearing for hanging damage occurs and injury occurs. And demonstration. And look what it was. the nooses becomes an issue not simply I’m not saying by any stretch of the It was a peaceful protest in the tradi- because that was not considered imagination that there should not be tion of the peaceful nonviolent protests enough of a punishment. That’s argu- some question or responsibility for the of the 1960s and ’70s. able. I don’t want to stand here and say conduct that was engaged in. These kids, mostly college and high what was the proper punishment. It’s But I call upon the prosecutor again, school youngsters, who identified because people look at the fact that you do justice. Don’t wait for the judge clearly with the Jena Six of their age, that was mitigated to a few days and to do justice. Don’t wait for God to do came to Louisiana essentially to say compare it to the almost instant expul- justice. It’s in your hand to do justice, that adults had lost control of their sion of the black kids following a fight. to use the power that you have, that town and of their society. I went and I don’t regard these two things as the you’ve been vested with, that the peo- looked for what has happened, and I same. But I say to you that the reason ple of America expect you to do your want to say a few words about what that this appearance of unequal justice job; and your job will be to rethink the has happened that makes me say that heated up is because after the expul- decisions you’ve made in this case and adults lost control. sion was overturned to a few days’ sus- make sure that justice applies. And it’s This event that we all know about pension, the adults did not, in fact, in your power to do so. under the tree began almost a year react to the mounting tension in the It gives me great pleasure, at this ago. Well, in August. Well, August 2006, school, and it has mounted for over a time, to call upon my good friend, one as a matter of fact. Now we’re already year. of the great lawyers in the Congres- in, so that’s more than a year ago. When the parents of the black stu- sional Black Caucus who’s shown lead- Where, interestingly, these students dents weren’t allowed to speak at the ership in every area that I can think went and asked permission to sit under school board meeting, they apparently of, my good friend, the Delegate from a tree. Everything thereafter, it seems went a second time and were allowed to the District of Columbia, ELEANOR to me, falls squarely on the shoulders speak, but, quote, not about the noose HOLMES NORTON, for such time as she of the adults. Here the children are issue. There’s nobody in Jena, and I may consume. asking for permission. What do kids can forgive them that, they’re small- Ms. NORTON. I thank the gentlelady usually do when they see a shady spot? town folks, who understood that this for her very gracious remarks and kind And that’s what it was, apparently, one was mounting, and if you don’t get to words. To the gentlelady who remarked of the few shady spots close to the talk it out, if you don’t have small that I first knew her when I was Chair school has been preempted by people of groups, if you don’t have somebody of the Equal Employment Opportunity a certain color. Well, you know, the helping you, it’s just going to continue Commission, I must say to her that it way in which children go to school and to mount. gave me special personal pride to see college today, tragically, in separate Disciplinary issues continue all her elected to the Congress, much more groups, instead of going over and sim- around this separate incident. We have to see her become the first African ply starting a fight or simply sitting incidents of young blacks being at- American woman on the Ways and under the tree, they asked permission. tacked by whites in the town, all Means Committee, and she just did us Mr. Speaker, the noose, one can around this incident without anybody, proud again. argue about whether the three nooses months later, heating up, incident The gentlelady from Ohio has applied should have resulted in expulsion or after incident, all going back to the her distinguished career in the law to not. For myself, particularly if there’s nooses; gun pulled on some black kids, reminding the prosecutor what his first only one high school, I’m not for expel- not because they were involved with obligation is, and that is to do justice. ling anybody. I’m for using the good of- the whites who pulled the gun, but in That’s why the prosecutor is given fices of the adults to try to keep from retaliation for a prior incident. So here such discretion. He often doesn’t pros- doing that. And I doubt if there was you have retaliation going and people ecute, or he thinks of other things that more than one high school in Jena. going after whoever is not of their should be done. The onus is on him. But the fact is that, whether or not color. And I found your remarks especially the kids knew what the three nooses And the teachers begging for some- important in light of the fact that meant, once that word reached adults, body to do something over and over after what we’ve seen in Jena has left white and black, they knew for sure. again. The recounting of what hap- us to just get to one side or the other, And without recounting all of the pened for a full year says the teachers and that’s not solving the problem ei- events, it appears that many opportu- are saying, for goodness sakes, help us ther. nities to try to solve this issue were out. We see mounting tension in this I want to thank the gentlelady from lost because those in charge of the school. We had, a few months ago, a Michigan, who is the Chair of our cau- town refused to listen. dozen teachers threatening a ‘‘sick cus, for delegating to you this responsi- How could a prosecutor, the pros- out’’ if discipline was not restored in bility and for her great leadership, es- ecutor of which the gentlelady spoke, the school. And that’s when the pros- pecially in this week of the Congres- have essentially used the threatening ecutor comes forward and ups the sional Black Caucus events where we language about the stroke of a pen and charges of the six boys to attempted will be discussing public policy and making your lives disappear after a second-degree murder. That was his re- trying, as a group of African Ameri- school assembly? The school assembly sponse to mounting racial tension in a cans, to contribute not only to the was the right thing to do. school. Congress, but to our Nation. But I say to the Chair of tonight’s The prosecutor, I want to suggest to If the lady will, I would like to com- event, where is the civil rights unit of the gentlelady from Ohio, I believe, is ment on both issues. I decided that the the Justice Department? in violation of Louisiana rules of pro- issue, the consciousness on the issue, After more than a year with this fessional conduct, just as the pros- had been raised and no words that I thing heating up, they still have, so far ecutor was in violation of the North could say could further raise them. as I know, this unit that does not en- Carolina rules in the infamous case in- But my consciousness was raised gage in law enforcement but does help volving the woman who accused the when 50,000 people went to Jena, led by troubled communities. This is a small Duke players of rape. This prosecutor young people. Now understand, yes, town. They perhaps don’t have the re- has done the very same thing. He has there were civil rights leaders here, but sources or the expertise to know what gone before the press and spoken in

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.092 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10744 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 such a way that I believe he should be would hope that prosecutors in this Na- faced with a terrible dilemma, that investigated by his own under Lou- tion engage in their conduct and offi- those children who will be without isiana rules of professional conduct. cial responsibilities. health care are in a large number and And I believe and call upon the Lou- I yield to the gentlewoman. the salaries as seen nationwide do not isiana Bar Association to do so. Ms. NORTON. Just to respond to that explain why. But above all, I’m calling this and just say a few words about SCHIP, I looked at what were these places. evening on the Justice Department to what you say is so important. Also, the These places in order of highest, the lend its mediation resources to this power of the prosecutor, we have seen top three, to lowest are Hawaii, num- poor little town where both the blacks him send Members of Congress to jail. ber one; California, number two; and and the whites are greatly in need of You don’t need to tell him much. But the District of Columbia region, the outside assistance. This kind of racial above all, what the prosecutor needs to national capital region, number three. tension has built up over time, not know is this is not decades ago when a Is anybody surprised? People can’t only in this community, but I think prosecutor approaching black people even afford to live in the District of Co- young people around the country see got them to fear and trembling. These lumbia anymore because of the cost of Jena as emblematic of the abuses, are kids. This is 2007. That was seen as living. overcharging in the criminal justice a threat, and it didn’t do the job. In New York must be here coming up. I system. fact, it upped the ante, and it was irre- am just looking down the list. Just as this young man who’s being sponsible conduct because he should But essentially when you consider, held in jail without bail may have have been aware of how his words yes, there is some enhanced benefit been, and indeed did, if, in fact, he is would have been perceived. And if any- from the Federal Government, but thing, he needed to cool it down, per- found guilty now, and I do not know if what these jurisdictions have said is haps to say the law is here to do his job he has yet been found guilty as a juve- that the situation has become so bad if you don’t do yours, but certainly nile. The matter was thrown out when after our investigations for certain that kind of threat had the opposite ef- they wanted to prosecute him as adult. people who are, yes, above the Federal fect on teens. limit that we believe that hundreds of If he has engaged in that violence, Maybe on you and me, we might have thousands of children will, in fact, be you will not find anybody in the Con- said, well, wait a minute, we had better without health care unless we move. gressional Black Caucus or in this Con- stop here. But these are kids who had And I am astounded by the number of gress saying violence was the appro- spent a full year fighting each other States that believe this, and I am cha- priate response, given the fact that you anyway. And, again, where is it going grinned that we see a preemptive have not been appropriately responded to come to an end? The youngster who strike by the Bush administration to, to on the three nooses. That, you won’t remains in jail remains there. We don’t in fact, despite what we have passed, find us saying. know what is going to happen to him. keep States from bringing in, up to a What you’ll find us saying is that It seems to me the only way to bring it certain limit, certain families who every adult knew what maybe kids do to an end is to bring in outside forces not know, what three nooses have to to try to mediate this situation. have been priced out of health care in have meant to these kids’ parents and I want to say a word about SCHIP in their communities. to these kids. And, Mr. Speaker, the light of the allegation that many of us So I call upon Americans, as they adults in Jena allowed this to build up; simply want to give high earners ac- read about what we are trying to do beyond the adults, the Justice Depart- cess to this bill to provide health bene- here, to understand what we are really ment, who would have been in touch fits for children above the normal pov- trying to do here, to make sure that with these incidents. erty line. And the figure has been cited when we say we are covering all chil- dren who need health care and could b 2030 in some jurisdictions you can make $60,000 or $80,000 a year. This needs to not otherwise get it, we mean that and They are charged to be in touch with be explained to the American people. no more. these incidents over the last year. Yes, there may be some of us who see I thank the gentlewoman for yield- They did not move in and I call upon it as a way to get universal health ing. them to do so now. care, but I will tell you most of us Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. JONES of Ohio. If I could re- don’t see it that way. The reason we thank you very much, Congresswoman claim my time for a moment, in my have gone to children is because we ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON of the Dis- notes with regard to Jena Six, after the have failed utterly and know we will trict of Columbia. And I want you to new situation where the white students continue to fail in the foreseeable fu- know, and the people of the District of or whoever hung the nooses from the ture to get universal child care. And so Columbia to know, we are for your hav- tree, the African American students the whole point of the State health bill ing representation and a vote in the decided to protest. So here, then, the was to say at least let’s do it for chil- Congress, and we are going to be vigi- district attorney, accompanied by the dren. And the notion of doing it for lant and keep working on that very police, comes to the high school and people with high income needs to be issue. says to them, I can be your best friend explained. Ms. NORTON. Thank you. or your worst enemy. I can take away Poverty benefits are not adjusted for Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I your lives with the stroke of a pen. the cost of living in particular places. am currently serving on the Ways and My position would have been, again, That has enormous hardship. But its Means Committee. As many people and I say this very clearly, that this hardship when it comes to health costs have said this evening, I am blessed to prosecutor knows that he has power cannot be overemphasized because of be the first African American woman and people know that he has power. differences in the cost of living and in- in the history of this country to serve But there is this piece of poetry that flationary rise of health care in par- on this committee. I am pleased this says that when you are talking to ticular. Health care inflation is far year to work my way to the Health young people, in essence, what they greater than any other kind of infla- Subcommittee. And on that com- say to you is, I would rather see a ser- tion in the society. So you are faced in mittee, as a part of that committee, I mon than hear one every day. And this large cities, for example, with people have had the opportunity to work on district attorney should be setting the who can’t possibly afford even health the recent legislation passed by the example by engaging in conduct and care provided by their employer be- House on August 1 that took a vital setting justice as his point of entree cause the cost of living in the high-cost step towards ensuring the future with these students versus sitting down place where they live is such that they health of America by approving the and saying to them, along with the po- can barely afford to live there. So what Children’s Health and Medicare Protec- lice, cut down what you are doing be- is $61,000 in one place is not nearly tion Act. It was called the CHAMP Act cause I can be your worst enemy or what it is in a small town someplace of 2007. your best friend. And he truly can, but else. On the Health Subcommittee, I have being someone’s worst enemy or best I want to point that out because had the opportunity to talk with my friend is not the gauge by which we these high-cost-of-living regions are colleagues and listen to testimony

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.093 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10745 from doctors and those in health care Members of Congress and Members of cerned citizens from across the Nation have and those who provide kidney dialysis, the Senate understand how important organized, rallied, and raised money on behalf et cetera, to help me begin to formu- you know that health care for children of the Jena-6. Most recently, on September 9, late my position on many issues. is. 2007, Reverend Jesse Jackson met with fami- One of the things that has been clear And, lastly, I will focus back one lies of the Jena-6 and called upon Jena offi- to me, however, is if we don’t provide more time on the Jena Six. It was cials to reconsider the charges. Major rallies health care to our children, we are great to have an opportunity with my were held in Jena and around the country on writing our future. I recently had the colleagues to address that particular September 20, the day Bell’s sentencing was opportunity to go to university hos- issue. And on behalf of our great Chair, scheduled to occur. Tens of thousands trav- pitals in my congressional district to Congresswoman CAROLYN CHEEKS KIL- eled to Jena from across the country to show participate with some young people in PATRICK of the State of Michigan, I their support. what’s called the Healthy Children pro- thank the Speaker for granting us this This show of activism has had some effect. gram and their focus on obesity, one of Special Order for today. This month, charges against Jones, Shaw and the biggest problems that faces chil- Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, in the 21st Bailey were reduced to aggravated second-de- dren in our country and particularly century, there are some things that I had gree battery and conspiracy, although Purvis minority children whose diet tends to hoped we would have put behind us as a soci- still faces charges of attempted murder and be not as healthy, low-income folks, as ety. As we move to celebrate the 50th anni- conspiracy. A judge also granted a motion to folks who are able to choose fresh vege- versary of the ‘‘Little Rock Nine,’’ there are overturn Bell’s conspiracy conviction, stating tables, fruit, et cetera. And as I was things that I had hoped today’s children would that the case should have been tried in juve- playing with these children, and we not need to suffer. But as the Chairman of the nile court. In addition, the 3rd Circuit Court of were doing exercises and we were roll- Judiciary Committee, I know that we are still in Appeals overturned Bell’s remaining aggra- ing around the floor with these exer- search of equal justice across this Nation. vated second-degree battery conviction, also cise balls and these various types of There are still places where the progress of on the grounds that it should have been tried strings to help us lift and move our the civil rights era have not fully taken hold. in juvenile court. arms, I noticed that these young people The tragedy of the Jena-6, which is unfold- At the Federal, we cannot remain silent. In- were motivated, motivated, to change ing right now before the eyes of the Nation, deed, the Community Relations Service of the their eating habits as well as their life- shows us that we still have some distance to Department of Justice has been in Jena for style. travel before putting the demons of the past months to assist with conciliation efforts. In- Obesity has claimed so many of our behind us. The controversy dates back to Au- vestigation units of the Department have also children. Back in the day when I was in gust 2006 when black students at Jena High apparently reviewed the situation. It is impor- school, I remember there was this School attempted to sit under a tree where tant for members of Congress to maintain President’s requirement that you had white students socialized exclusively. The fol- careful oversight of Federal actions to ensure to do so many sit-ups, you had to run lowing day, three white students, who would that all the resources of the Justice Depart- so many laps, and you had to be in- later be punished only with suspensions, hung ment are employed to protect the rights of the volved in activity. And somehow we nooses from the tree. A series of racially local community. have to get our children back to that charged episodes involving off-campus vio- To that end, I will convene a panel at the activity. lence soon followed the noose incident. In one Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legisla- We have children with high blood instance, black student Robert Bailey would tive Conference to address, the plight of the pressure. We have children with diabe- be attacked in a white part of town at gun- Jena-6. The forum will be held on Friday, Sep- tes. We have children who are working point. The white student who attacked Bailey tember 28, at 3 p.m. in Room 209c of the their way to kidney failure as a result would face only simple battery and probation. Washington Convention Center. The panel will of the lack of health care and the lack The white man who pulled the gun on Bailey, feature: Prof Charles Ogletree, Harvard Uni- of preventative health care. however, would face no consequence. Ulti- versity Law School; Tory Pegram, Louisiana So there should be no surprise on the mately, Bailey would be charged with theft of Affiliate, ACLU; Family Members of Robert face of any person in the United States a firearm for wrestling the gun away. Bailey—Jena 6; Rep. Elijah Cummings (MD– of America that we need to have health Later, racial taunting directed at black stu- 7th); Michael Baisden, Radio Personality; care coverage for all of our children. dents in the high school cafeteria would lead Louis Granderson Scott, Attorney of Michael Now, the controversy becomes how to a fight in which a white student would be in- Bell (Jena-6); and Rev. Al Sharpton, Civil do you pay for it. And right now we are jured and sent to the hospital. These injuries, Rights Activist. in this Congress where we are saying however, would not prevent the student from Ultimately, I believe that a Judiciary Com- we want to be concerned about pay- attending a high school event that same mittee oversight hearing may be warranted, as fors. We want to be fiscally sound. So evening. The five of the Black teens involved the Department of Justice has intervened with we either have to come up with a way in the fight—Mychal Bell, Robert Bailey, little success. The Department investigated the to tax and change it, or we have to be Carwin Jones, Bryant Purvis, and Theo Shaw noose incident, but concluded that a hate able to reduce expenditures in other were charged as adults with attempted sec- crime had not been committed. However, we areas. I am one of those who believes ond-degree murder and conspiracy to commit should explore whether the apparently hostile that it is time to expend the money murder, sentences that carry up to 80 years in racial climate at the local high school opens that we need to expend for health care, prison. The sixth teen will be tried as a juve- federal jurisdiction under other civil rights stat- health care for all Americans, because nile and faces undisclosed charges. utes. Similarly, the activities of CRS should be I know we are spending much more One would have hoped that the elders of reviewed to determine their effectiveness at than that as we fight this war in Iraq Jena would have intervened in a way that led dispute resolution. and we provide health care to the peo- to healing in the community. Sadly, this was We have reached a point in history where ple of Iraq and still question whether not the case. Allegations of prosecutorial mis- this kind of situation is no longer tolerable. I we provide adequate health care to the conduct have been directed at LaSalle Parish commend everyone across the country for veterans of our country who have been District Attorney Reed Walters, who told Black participating in rallies, sending your support injured and maimed over there. students at a school assembly in response to and letting these students and the rest of the But today on behalf of the Congres- the noose incident that ‘‘I can be your best country know that we, as a Nation, will not sional Black Caucus, it has been my friend or your worst enemy. With a stroke of stand for this kind of injustice. pleasure to host this message hour. We my pen, I can make your lives disappear.’’ Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to sup- have had an opportunity to bring to This statement was proven true when Mychal port the bipartisan, bicameral plan to reauthor- the attention of the American public Bell was convicted in June of aggravated sec- ize the State Children’s Health Insurance Pro- our concerns about the State Chil- ond-degree battery and conspiracy by an all- gram, SCHIP, which the House will consider dren’s Health Insurance Program, white jury. The court-appointed attorney who later this week. This crucial legislation will en- which will be debated on the floor of represented Bell called no witnesses and pre- sure that millions of our children receive the this House tomorrow. sented no evidence in his defense. vital health services they need. I encourage America to tune in, lis- The families of Jena have not, however, Even though I support this legislation, I rise ten in, and call in and raise your com- faced this struggle alone. Just as happened in today with a heavy heart. It is nothing short of plaints, raise your concerns, and let the 1960’s, students, activists, and other con- a disgrace that here, in the wealthiest country

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.095 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10746 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 on earth, eight million children lack health in- Office estimates, the reduction in the number I thank all of my CBC colleagues who have surance coverage. We ought to be ashamed of uninsured children will approach 4 million been toiling in the vineyards for years devel- that we are having this debate at all. children. oping effective public policies and securing the I am absolutely stunned that some Congres- Under the agreement, quality dental cov- resources needed to eradicate racial and gen- sional Republicans and the President continue erage will be provided to all children enrolled der disparities in health and wellness. to oppose this legislation, particularly in light of in CHIP. The agreement also ensures states We know that the lack of healthcare contrib- the fact that the President used SCHIP as part will offer mental health services on par with utes greatly to the racial and ethnic health dis- of his campaign platform in 2004. Talk about medical and surgical benefits covered under parities in this country, so we must provide our shock and awe! I am shocked beyond belief CHIP. The agreement provides states with in- children with the health insurance coverage to that they can stand before the American peo- centives to lower the rate of uninsured low in- remain healthy. SCHIP, established in 1997 to ple with straight faces and refuse health care come children. It replaces the flawed CMS Au- serve as the healthcare safety net for low-in- for our children. I am in awe of the gall re- gust 17th letter to states with a more thought- come uninsured children, has decreased the quired to base the denial of these vital, life- ful and appropriate approach. In place of the number of uninsured low-income children in saving services on an ideological talking point. CMS letter, the agreement gives states time the United States by more than one-third. The Madam Speaker, the ideology of my col- and assistance in developing and imple- reduction in the number of uninsured children leagues on the other side of the aisle has not menting their own best practices to address is even more striking for minority children. provided health care for these children yet. It crowd-out. In 2006, SCHIP provided insurance to 6.7 is impossible for any serious person to believe The compromise proposal improves out- million children. Of these, 6.2 million were in that if this legislation is defeated the Repub- reach tools to simplify and streamline enroll- families whose income was less than $33,200 lican ideology will suddenly start working its ment of eligible children, providing $100 mil- a year for a family of three. SCHIP works in magic and provide health care for these chil- lion in grants for new outreach activities to conjunction with the Medicaid safety net that dren whose parents can’t afford to buy it in the states, local governments, schools, commu- serves the lowest income children and ones open market. nity-based organizations, safety-net providers with disabilities. Together, these programs In my years fighting for universal health and others. It also establishes a new quality provide necessary preventative, primary and care, we have often said, ‘‘Covering children is child health initiative to develop and implement acute healthcare services to more than 30 mil- easy. How could anyone refuse to support quality measures and improve state reporting lion children. Eighty-six percent of these chil- coverage for children?’’ It was coverage for of quality data. These measures are critical to dren are in working families that are unable to adults that was always perceived as the real ensuring that all our nation’s children get the obtain or afford private health insurance for challenge. health care they need. their Meanwhile, health care through SCHIP is But today, the Republicans have stooped Mr. Speaker, let’s tell the White House and cost effective: it costs a mere $3.34 a day or lower than even I thought was possible. Not the Congressional Republicans still standing $100 a month to cover a child under SCHIP, only are they saying ‘‘We can’t afford to give with it that it’s time to stop playing political according to the Congressional Budget Office. our children health care.’’ This is the same games. Let’s tell them it’s time to work to- There are significant benefits of the State Chil- party, by the way, that finds money for tax gether to ensure more children across the dren’s Health Insurance Program when look- cuts for the rich, that finds money to fund a country have the high-quality medical care ing at specific populations served by this pro- disaster of a war. Many times more money they deserve. The President might not be able gram. than what is needed to cover these children, to understand that it’s the right thing to do, but MINORITY CHILDREN in fact. the American people certainly will. SCHIP has had a dramatic effect in reduc- Not only are the Republicans admitting that Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, ing the number of uninsured minority children they prioritize tax cuts for the wealthy and let me thank my dear friend, Ms. TUBBS JONES and providing them access to care: feeding the military industrial complex over in- of Ohio, for organizing this special order on Between 1996 and 2005, the percentage of suring our children. They are now standing be- the very importance subject of SCHIP, the low-income African American and Hispanic fore the American people and saying ‘‘It is not State Children’s Health Insurance Program. I children without insurance decreased substan- our job to guarantee health insurance cov- am particularly pleased that we are having this tially. erage for America’s children.’’ They are refus- discussion tonight because I have very serious In 1998, roughly 30 percent of Latino chil- ing to make that promise. concerns about the SCHIP legislation that dren, 20 percent of African American children, Instead, they propose that our children’s comes before the House tomorrow. My major and 18 percent of Asian American and Pacific health should be subject to the ups and downs concern is that the version of the legislation Islander children were uninsured. After enact- of the stock market, that it should depend on that will come before the House tomorrow is ment, those numbers had dropped by 2004 to their parents’ employment status, or how less expansive than the version the House about 12 percent, and 8 percent, respectively. much they have in a bank account. It is utterly voted on previously. Half of all African American and Hispanic beyond conception how the Republicans can This is extremely important because reau- children are already covered by SCHIP or possibly think these concepts will be accepted thorization of SCHIP is crucial to closing the Medicaid. by the American people. But I will leave my racial and ethnic health disparities in this More than 80 percent of uninsured African colleagues on the other side of the aisle to country. Narrowing health care coverage of American children and 70 percent of unin- face the repercussions of this folly next No- our children, as this newly agreed upon sured Hispanic children are eligible but not en- vember. version does, clearly falls far short of the goal rolled in Medicaid and SCHIP, so reauthor- Let me move on to a more positive subject: that we had hoped for in our efforts to de- izing and increasing support for SCHIP will be the compromise SCHIP bill, which we will crease health disparities. It is crucial that this crucial to insuring this population. pass over these shameful objections. While I Congress continue to bring awareness to the Prior to enrolling in SCHIP, African Amer- would have preferred the original House- many health concerns facing minority commu- ican and Hispanic children were much less passed bill to the more modest bicameral nities and to acknowledge that we need to find likely than non-Hispanic White children to compromise, the House-Senate agreement is solutions to address these concerns. My col- have a usual source of care. After they en- a major improvement over the President’s pro- leagues in the Congressional Black Caucus rolled in SCHIP, these racial and ethnic dis- posal, which would result in 840,000 children and I understand the very difficult challenges parities largely disappeared. In addition, currently enrolled in SCHIP losing their cov- facing us in the form of huge health disparities SCHIP eliminated racial and ethnic disparities erage. among our community and other minority com- in unmet medical needs for African American The House-Senate agreement invests $35 munities. We will continue to seek solutions to and Hispanic children, putting them on par billion in new funding for SCHIP over five those challenges. with White children. SCHIP is also important years to strengthen the program’s financing, Reauthorization of the SCHIP is crucial to to children living in urban areas of the country. increase health insurance coverage for low-in- realizing those solutions. However, we must In urban areas: One in four children has come children, and improve the quality of not compromise away the health of millions of healthcare coverage through SCRIP. More health care children receive. It will provide children who will under this new SCHIP than half of all children whose family income health coverage to millions of low-income chil- version go without health care coverage. It is is $32,180 received healthcare coverage dren who are currently uninsured and ensures imperative for us to improve the prospects for through SCHIP. that the 6.6 million children who currently par- living long and healthy lives and fostering an CHILDREN IN URBAN AREAS ticipate in CHIP continue to receive health ethic of wellness in African-American and SCHIP is also important to children living in coverage. Pending final Congressional Budget other minority communities. urban areas of the country. In urban areas:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.068 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10747 One in four children has healthcare coverage the family budget, the American fam- 110th Democrat-controlled Congress through SCHIP. More than half of all children ily from the east coast to the west, the wrought? Most specifically, the largest whose family income is $32,180 received fact that they have to spend day after tax increase in U.S. history. Let me re- healthcare coverage through SCHIP. day working hard for their money, for peat that, and I will probably say that CHILDREN IN RURAL COMMUNITIES their income, to pay for their expenses, later on, the largest tax increase in SCHIP is significantly important to children when we focus on those facts and when U.S. history. And why is that? Well, for living in our country’s rural areas. In rural we focus on the fact that the American a couple of reasons. areas: One in three children has healthcare family has to pay for their housing, One, you have continued to see ex- coverage through SCHIP or more than half of their rent or their mortgage, the edu- cesses in spending out of the budget all children whose family income is under cation of their children, their food and coming from the other side of the aisle. $32,180 received healthcare coverage through their clothing and other expenses and That, in and of itself, is bad for the Medicaid or SCHIP. Seventeen percent of chil- health care and the like, if we keep our American economy and for the Amer- dren continue to be of the 50 counties with the mind focused on that, maybe we in this ican taxpayer. And secondly, those highest rates of uninsured children, 44 are Congress and the administration will higher taxes are part and parcel of the rural counties, with many located in the most not be amiss as to where those dollars Democrat plan. Why do I say that? remote and isolated parts of the country. Be- go in the long term. Well, because part of their plan when they came in here, and this is some- cause the goal is to reduce the number of un- b 2045 insured children, reauthorizing and increasing thing that they championed and they support for SCHIP will be crucial to helping If you may recall, it was just a week said was to be good, was something the uninsured in these counties and reducing ago this Monday that we celebrated the called PAYGO, pay-as-you-go. Now, in the 17 percent of uninsured. 220th anniversary of the U.S. Constitu- the heart of things you would think Mr. Speaker, I would much rather we extend tion. The Founding Fathers, brilliant that that is not a bad idea to pay as the deadline for reauthorization of SCHIP, men all, had wisdom probably beyond you go. When you think about it, that’s while we diligently and reasonably consider their years and beyond their ages when how every family in America really the unsettled issues in this debate so that mil- they crafted, in 1787, that document should be operating on their budget lions of the most vulnerable population, includ- that lives with us today. It is our job, each week or each month when they ing many African American and other minority as Members of Congress, to read that pay their bills, figure out how much is children can receive the health care coverage document, to understand that docu- in the checkbook, and before they can they need to remain healthy and develop into ment from an original intent point of go on any further they have to make productive citizens of this great country. It is view, and by that, I mean to under- sure they have enough income. not as important to reauthorize an inferior bill stand what the Founders intended at But when the American family needs under pressure of fast-approaching deadlines that time for generations to come. additional income to pay for additional as it is to ensure that we provide health care One of the hallmarks of that docu- expenses, where do they get it from? to those children who remain vulnerable to ment was to understand a federalist Well, they have to earn it through ad- health disparities. I urge my colleagues to join system of government. And within ditional work, or that American family me in ensuring health care coverage for mil- that, the States were sovereign in the has another alternative, just don’t lions of children and reducing health dispari- sense that they were to take care of spend the money in the first place. Un- ties among the most vulnerable populations. many factors; people were supposed to fortunately, the other side of the aisle have utmost responsibility for them- f doesn’t ever seem to want to choose selves and their family, and the Fed- that second option of decreasing spend- THE FEDERAL BUDGET AND OUR eral Government was to have very lim- ing or holding spending flat, and that’s TAX DOLLARS ited powers. And in that Constitution why we see spending continuing to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. it specifically set out, article I, section grow out of control. And as that spend- SALAZAR). Under the Speaker’s an- 8 sets out much of the limitations on ing continues to grow out of control, nounced policy of January 18, 2007, the the powers that Congress has. how do they make up for it? Well, they, gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. GAR- Just shortly after the enactment of unlike the American family, are not RETT) is recognized for 60 minutes as the Constitution, the Bill of Rights was out there earning those dollars for the designee of the minority leader. created and added a portion of the first those PAYGOs. They do it the old-fash- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Mr. 10 amendments to the Constitution. ioned way; they tax it. And they take Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity And the 10th Amendment to the Con- it out of my pocket and out of your to come to the floor now for the next 60 stitution says something that I think pocket, out of the American taxpayers’ minutes to address an issue that is of is important to our fiscal spending, and pocket. utmost importance to all Americans, that is, ‘‘All rights not specifically del- So we’re here to discuss those dilem- and it is a very simple one: Where do egated to the Federal Government are mas that are facing the American fam- my tax dollars go and why do I pay so retained by the States and the people, ily. And I’m pleased to be joined this much in taxes? We will see over the respectively.’’ Those powers that are evening by a gentleman who has been course of the next hour where some of retained by the people, all other ones fighting on this floor those very issues, the dollars go, and we will also see the are by the people and the States. fighting on the floor for the American fact that, quite honestly, it is hard to So the Constitution, if you would family to make sure that the American determine where some of those dollars look at it, basically just lists what the family can retain as much of their go and what the Republican conference Federal Government is supposed to do. hard-earned dollars as possible, and to has tried to do to address that issue, to Everything else is in the hands of the address these issues that we’ve begun try to nail down some of what the facts people or the States. Now, over the to address so far as far as spending and are. I am referring, of course, to ear- generations, unfortunately, especially trying to constrain it. So right now I marks and transparency in the budget in the last 40 or 50-some-odd years, the would like to yield the floor to the process because, as we all know for all Federal Government has grown expan- good gentleman from Texas. too long, it has been a difficult issue to sively. And because of that, so, too, has Mr. GOHMERT. Well, I thank my try just to figure out, when you send the budget, and so, too, has the burden friend very much. your taxes every April 15 to Wash- on the American family. And as you’ve been pointing out, we ington, DC, where some of those hard- We come tonight to point out that deal with these issues within our own earned dollars go to. the budget we have seen crafted by the families. My wife and I have been mar- These are important issues, as I said other side of the aisle continues to ried 29 years this summer, and we have at the very beginning, to the American grow out of control without constraint three fantastic daughters. But over the family because, as I have always said, I and, therefore, puts an additional bur- years, including this weekend, I’ve had believe, as Members of Congress, that den in the form of higher taxes. Here to tell my girls, you know, gee, I’d like our focus should be on the family budg- we stand 9 months into this 110th Con- to help, but money doesn’t grow on et as opposed to focusing on the Fed- gress, and what have we seen as far as trees. We’re not going to be able to do eral budget, because when we focus on the budget is concerned? What has this it right now; perhaps in the next month

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE7.070 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 or two we can go to that and we will as the House bill on SCHIP, and we’ve memory, how did that vote come down have the money to go forward and do heard a good deal of discussion before when we tried, and I know you were that. But they’ve also learned that, we got in here to start with this hour, one of the leaders on the floor at that and we don’t get the arguments we did but the SCHIP bill, you know, helping time, to make sure that that limita- when they were younger because now kids have health care, we’re all for tion would take place? If you recall they have begun to understand the that. That’s a good thing. But then how that vote actually came down. value of money and the value of a dol- when you started looking at this House Mr. GOHMERT. I thank the gen- lar and how, if you don’t have it, you version, the Democrat’s version on tleman for yielding back. I remember can’t spend it. That’s never seemed to this, to brutalize seniors on Medicare very well. The amendment to prevent have stopped the Federal Government. and saying we’re going to take from illegal aliens from getting such incred- And it appears that some Members of the seniors and give to the young peo- ible amounts of Federal taxpayer dol- Congress are having a harder time ple, and then it turns out the bill ex- lars passed by 215–213. We’ve seen the these days grasping that concept than I panded the age so it wasn’t just young video of the replay, so it’s not just my might have imagined. people, it was also adults were in- recollection; it’s there in the video. We And maybe I’m a little naive. Maybe, cluded. I think in the final bill, maybe passed the amendment with the Repub- Mr. Speaker, since this is only my sec- that will be taken out, but even there lican leadership, and as Mr. GARRETT ond term in Congress, I have been a lit- we’re not sure what is going to end up will recall, he was a big part of that, tle naive. But in the last Congress, being in there; we haven’t gotten to see and it was 215–213. It sat on the board when our friends, Democrats across the that. But then, again, adding subsidies, for a good while, the vote was closed, aisle, stand up and say, you know, and basically food stamps is what they the gavel came down. And then as we we’ve got to get this spending under amount to, to people in foreign coun- saw on the video, there were two people control, we’ve got to stop this wasteful tries instead of taking care of folks that came forward. They weren’t in the spending, we’ve got to quit spending here? The way it takes care of folks well. They came forward later and more than we’ve got coming in, I com- here is folks here get to pay a whole lot changed their vote after the vote was mented to some of my Republican col- more in taxes than they would other- all declared, after everything was done. leagues, you know, they’re really right, wise if we weren’t trying to take on The vote was final. And somehow, we have got to do that. And some of us, people that illegally were getting food when the smoke cleared, it was 212–216, including my friend, Mr. GARRETT, had stamps or weren’t sending such money I believe. So a vote that would have come together and demanded reform in to other countries. eliminated illegal aliens from receiving certain areas, demanded that we get Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Will benefits under this provision, it passed, some of this spending under control. the gentleman yield? and then the rules were violated and it And, you know, when the Republicans Mr. GOHMERT. I will certainly yield was taken away all so that people ille- lost the majority in November, I to the gentleman. gally here could get the hard-earned thought, well, you know, one of the sil- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Be- tax dollars from legal folks that are ver linings may be that these folks, the cause I think that’s an important one. here. Democratic majority that’s about to Someone in my district, years ago And if I could remind my gentleman when I first went into politics, said to take over in January, they wouldn’t friend from New Jersey, you know, we me, SCOTT, when you deal with all have gone out on a limb over and over talked a great deal. And some of us put these complicated issues that you will and over the way they did unless they our conservative rears on the line last deal with, at that time on the State really intended to control spending. year by demanding earmark reform level, or now that I’m here in Wash- Maybe that was naive. But anyway, as within our own Republican Party. And, ington, you have to translate it into, we’ve seen with every spending bill in fact, there were probably 30 or so of well, how does this impact upon me? that’s come before the House, it’s us that told our leadership we’re not And I remember that and try to bring draining American pockets with exces- voting for another major bill unless we it back home. sive tax hikes, with more spending get some type of earmark reform. So The point that you’re raising here we were thrilled, I know Mr. GARRETT than is necessary. with regard to these Federal programs, You know, I was shocked, also, that recalls, we were thrilled, Mr. Speaker, SCHIP and what have you, providing when we got an agreement from the the usually bipartisan farm bill ended benefits to illegal aliens, people com- up being shoved over into a partisan Speaker and we passed the amended ing into this country, breaking the rule here in the House that there could issue, that was so extremely unusual, law, and now looking to the American with a $4 billion partisan gimmick at not be any air-dropped earmarks, taxpayer to pay for their services I which were the biggest problem, no air- the expense of many taxpayers. I didn’t think is a critically important one. I realize until we actually took this farm dropped earmarks into conference re- think we’re all too aware of the fact ports without us having the ability to bill up since I’ve been in Congress, ap- that there are a number of services parently it comes up every 5 years and make a point of order objection and get that we would like to provide for our a vote on those bills. That was a big it had not come up since I’d been here, constituents at home, especially the but brought the bill up, and I didn’t re- deal. low-income individuals, especially And I just saw the current Speaker alize 66, 67 percent of the farm bill had when it’s something as critical as food, out in the Capitol in Statuary Hall. nothing to do with agriculture, that it and many times, I’m sure you hear in She was incredibly gracious. She met had to do with entitlements, and that your district that there’s just not some young people that are here in the those were running away. Some of us enough program to go around for your District of Columbia, was very gracious began to raise the issue, wait a minute, constituents as you would like to have to them. She didn’t have to stop, she this is going to be providing food them. was very kind. But I recall in Sep- stamps to illegal aliens, and yet we So when the Republican Conference tember of last year the current Speak- were told, well, it doesn’t actually do said, as you suggested, that we should er said, quote, ‘‘if you’re going to have that. It doesn’t provide food stamps to simply limit this program and limit earmarks and you’re going to have illegal aliens. And that sounded good, American taxpayers’ dollars to go to transparency, you have to do it in the except when you don’t require docu- American citizens and not to illegals, appropriations bill and in the tax bill mentation to prove legal status, then that, to me, hits home as, how does and in the authorization bill.’’ there is no way to determine whether that impact upon me? It means that someone is legally getting food stamps those dollars will be going to Ameri- b 2100 or not getting legal food stamps. So cans and to those who are most needy. She said, ‘‘I would put it in writing.’’ that seemed to fall on deaf ears as well. Is that your understanding as well? Democratic Chairman DAVID OBEY ad- When the majority was going to Mr. GOHMERT. I thank the gen- mitted that ‘‘the public wants us to promise and did promise energy re- tleman for yielding. Yes, that is my pass significant House reform.’’ He also form, we got an energy package that understanding. And I yield back. said, ‘‘To deal with the problem of ear- will raise taxes by potentially $16 bil- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. And if marks by only going after appropria- lion over the next 10 years. Now, also, the gentleman could just refresh my tions earmarks constituted basically

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.097 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10749 consumer fraud masquerading as lob- Mr. GARRETT. More importantly, I ers, they were saying. They were say- bying reform.’’ He said, ‘‘To not do thank the gentleman from Texas for ing that this administration was spend- something about authorizing com- your work in taking part in this battle. ing too much, signing on to all these mittee earmarks in the process is a I know that you do not simply come to budgets and signing on to all the ap- joke.’’ That was his quote. So that the floor in these matters, but you are propriation bills that were passed out sounds good. But that is not what is out there in committee process and of both the House and Senate. Of being done this year. Americans are you are on part of the team to make course, at that time, it was under Re- kind of fed up with having empty pock- sure that the system is run the appro- publican control, and so all the accusa- ets while the government has spending priate way and also to make the battle tions were against the Republic Party. sprees behind closed doors. continuous as far as making sure the Of course, what was being said was that Now, I am not for eliminating all ear- American tax dollar is spent as wisely Republicans were spending too much. marks. I think some of them are good. as possible. Although in this climate, I You would think that the next line Where we, as the most accountable must admit it is a difficult battle to be then out of the chairman’s mouth elected officials in the country, in engaged in. Thank you for your efforts. would have been, and out of the other some cases, can tell bureaucrats that You raised a couple of good points. side of the aisle’s comments would be, are locked up in a cubicle somewhere Let me just touch upon these to reit- at that time, And we are going to do that this is how this money should be erate them. One is that we all do want something about it. We are going to re- spent, but the important thing is sun- the same thing, as least on this side of duce spending. Or at the very least, as shine. It brings about great dis- the aisle, and that is more trans- Republicans had in past years, freeze infecting. That is where we are having parency, more openness and an under- spending at the same level as last year. the problem. That is why so many of standing of where the dollars are going But they did nothing of the sort. our colleagues have signed a discharge to. They did not freeze spending. They did petition that is designed to force the I know from the gentleman from not reduce spending. But they dras- House majority leadership to allow a Texas and myself, this is not some- tically increased spending over and vote on House Resolution 479 that thing new that we just came to the over again in line item, after line item, would ensure all taxpayer-funded ear- game at the last minute and are saying after line item, appropriation bill, marks are publicly disclosed and sub- these things. I am now in my third ject to challenge and open debate on after appropriation bill. There is not a term in office, my fifth year in Con- single appropriation bill that has come the House floor. gress. I have had the privilege and the I appreciate my friend from New Jer- to the floor that you haven’t seen what honor of serving on the House Budget sey yielding, as he has, and I would I am talking about: increasing in Committee during that time. In that just offer a couple more observations. spending. committee, many times I would raise Then I will yield back the time. In Jan- But when we bring it back to the the battle and raise the questions as to uary, frankly, when the Democratic issue of the earmarks, the same irony where our tax dollars are going, regard- majority said, ‘‘We are going to have goes here. All during the last cycle, the less of which agency we are talking even better earmark reform than what 109th Congress, when the Democrats the Republican conservatives got done about or whether we are fighting the were in the minority, clamoring, say- last year,’’ I was pretty happy about administration. Even though it is our ing that we were doing things wrong, that. I thought, that is a good thing. own administration on these issues, I saying that if they were in leadership How could we object to that? That is voted against a budget that has come or they were in power that they would great. But under the new rules, we were before this House, even though it is one do what? They would give us the trans- told that they did not allow any ear- of our own budgets, because I thought parency. They would give you open- marks. Like I say, there are some ear- we were spending too much. So I be- ness. What happens once they came marks where you have full disclosure. lieve I come to the well here with a into power? What have we seen? What Let them see light of day so people track record to stand on, as does the has this last 9 months wrought under know at whose request and what it is gentleman from Texas, as well, when it Democrat leadership? Well, as the gen- for. That can work out and still be a comes to saying we want to be fiscally tleman from Texas pointed out, we had good thing. But no earmarks is better responsible. to compel basically closing down the than having too many secret earmarks. Likewise, to the issue of earmarks, floor for a day at a time to compel So many of us were pleased. let’s spend a couple more minutes on them to give us some of that trans- Then, when the bill came out that that. Likewise in this area, I think the parency when it comes to earmark re- was chockfull of earmarks, we ob- gentleman from Texas and myself form. We thought we got some of that jected, which is allowed for in the new come from the same place. And that is transparency, but it is really not there rules, only to be told that there was a that even when we were in the major- completely as of yet. provision in the rules that said you ity, there were a number of us from There was an editorial in the Las could either have no earmarks whatso- this side of the aisle who were battling Vegas Review Journal saying: ‘‘Demo- ever, or in the bill in question you for, and eventually achieved what we cratic earmark reforms lasted just 100 could have a statement that there were were battling for at the end of the days. The anti-earmark reforms are no earmarks in the bill. And the bill in 109th Congress, and that was the issue just for show. Mere window dressing.’’ question before the floor, even though of earmark reform and transparency. That was an editorial in the early part it had lots of earmarks, there was the Unfortunately, that was lost at the be- of the summer. They point out in there statement in there that there were no ginning of the 110th Congress. You may that these are just some examples of earmarks; therefore, it didn’t violate recall the history. We had to come to earmarks that would have been subject the rule. Now, that was quite a shock. the floor again and literally almost to an up-or-down vote on the House You know, Mr. Speaker, the country shut things down on this floor in order floor had the Republican earmark re- wanted spending reform, not regres- to compel the Democrat leadership to form that we had talked about and sion, not reneging, not redoubling or do what they had promised in their that we had suggested and done in the retripling. They want true spending re- election of November of last year. last 109th Congress been in effect for form. So we need to clean up the waste- This may be one of the biggest iro- the 110th Congress. ful pork in legislation so that Amer- nies of the day, and we continue to see They go on to point out the gen- ican households can continue to bring it go out on this floor night after tleman from Pennsylvania, Represent- home their own bacon and not send it night. I think it was just last week ative MURTHA. A drug intelligence cen- somewhere else. when the Democrat conference Chair ter was included in the intel authoriza- I appreciate the time that has been was on the floor just in the podium to tion bill. Cost to taxpayers: $39 million yielded to me by my friend from New the right of me making basically the a year. Jersey. I appreciate, Mr. Speaker, our same campaign speech, if you will, that Now, we hear still to this day so friend from New Jersey’s battling and was made back prior to the November much talk about the infamous, and I agreeing to take this time and con- election. And what was that? Well, The agree it is infamous, not famous but in- centrate on these issues. Republicans are the party of big spend- famous, ‘‘Bridge to Nowhere,’’ a project

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.099 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10750 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 that some of us continue to rail and that really does not exist, is how selves, and presented here before the against and say it was wrong. I am glad the information is now being presented House when these bills were voted on. that Members on the Republican side to the American public. Let me explain All that information was there. It on the Senate did all they could to see it in this manner: If it was our desire could have been done very cleanly, to it that those funds would not go to make sure that information is being simply, so that Members of Congress there on a cause that truly was not projected out to the Members of Con- and, importantly, the American public worthwhile. But, you know, you hear gress in a useful fashion and also to the would have that information. about that in the news for around $267 American public in a useful fashion, Unfortunately, that was not the million, I believe, the price tag was how could we do it? transparent method that the Democrat there. But here is a $400 million dis- majority wanted to use. Instead, we are b 2115 aster, I think one of the papers called still a case of obfuscation and trying to it. But you don’t hear much about Well, in the earmark reform package blur the information that is out there, that. That, again, comes from the same that the Republicans were able to com- and basically hiding from the Amer- gentleman, same program. pel the Democrats to accept, we said ican public what information should be Quoting now from U.S. News and that what you have to do, very simply, readily available to us, information World Report, they criticized this pro- is this: Give us a list of all the ear- that the Republican leadership and gram, the NDIC as a ‘‘drug war boon- marks and give us a list of what the those people who have been on the doggle.’’ A former official with the of- project is, how much money we are floor before and joining us now as well fice of National Drug Control Policy spending, and who the bill’s sponsor is. have been fighting for continually as said, None of us wanted it in Johns- I should step back for a moment and far as transparency in these issues of town. That is from the gentleman from say, just as the gentleman from Texas our American tax dollars and where Pennsylvania’s district. ‘‘We viewed it said, that we are not suggesting that they are being spent. as a jobs program Murtha wanted for all earmarks are bad, that all earmarks What I would like to do in a moment, his district,’’ from U.S. News and are extra-Constitutional; that is to because we haven’t got a chance to get World Report. The Washington Exam- say, outside of the bounds of what the into this yet, is take a look at the iner I believe also commented on this Constitution says we should be spend- other side of the equation. We have earmark pork, as well. The House Over- ing it on. Not by any means. We are spent some time now looking at ear- sight and Government Reform Com- just suggesting that if we are going to marks and how money is spent. I think mittee called NDIC an expensive and have earmarks that are within the con- we also need to take a look at where duplicative use of scarce Federal drug fines of the Constitution, what we the revenue comes from in the form of enforcement resources. So by any ra- should be spending our American tax- taxation. tional standard, this $400 million dis- payer dollars on are on priority items. I see I have been joined by another aster should have been shut down a Shouldn’t we have that basic informa- valiant fighter from Texas, a leader on long time ago according to the edi- tion there, who the sponsor is, what these issues, who is also a leader of the torial in the Washington Examiner. the project is, and how much money is Republican Study Committee, an orga- So there is an example of a way to being spent on it? Three basic pieces of nization of individuals who are dedi- get around the earmark reform that information. cated to the issues and principles that the other side was touting in the last That is what we achieved. But here’s we have been discussing on the floor election, as Republicans continue to the rub. Here’s the little secret that tonight and in the past as far as adher- this day to push for, and as the gen- came about in the mechanism that the ing to the strict tenets of the Constitu- tleman from Texas indicated, now that Democrat majority put together when tion and being concerned about where there is what we call a discharge peti- they implemented that. Instead of put- the American tax dollars go, and con- tion being signed, at least by the Re- ting all that information on one sheet cerned about all the transparency publican side of the aisle. I will wait to or two sheets or three sheets, whatever issues, have been fighting both now see whether anyone from the other side you needed for all the many, many ear- under the Democratic leadership to in- of the aisle joins on with us with that marks, and there are many, unfortu- crease the transparency and bring discharge petition to compel the addi- nately, too many earmarks in one some fiscal constraint to these issues, tional reform, additional transparency, place, that we could basically, well, but also, this is important, was also to come to the floor for a vote. Just to what, put it on the Internet so the here engaged in the fight back in the give a 30-second explanation of that, a American public and bloggers and any- days when the Republicans were the discharge petition is a mechanism of body else who wanted to Google or majority. There was a voice out there this House so that when a piece of leg- Yahoo or use any other search engine on the conservative right of the party. islation, good reform legislation like look into it and find out what it is eas- I am pleased to be joined by my this, is in the hopper, ready to go, but ily. No, they didn’t do it that way. friend from Texas (Mr. HENSARLING). the controlling leadership will not post Instead, here’s what they did. They Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I that for a vote, because the leadership provided it in basically two sets of in- thank the gentlemen for yielding. I es- party in power is the one who decides formation. So over here you have a de- pecially appreciate the gentleman’s what bills get posted, there is a mecha- scription of the project and how much leadership, his principled leadership in nism in the rules in order to provide a money it is, and over here you have a this body. For the people of his district mechanism to get that up for a yes-or- description of the project and who the in New Jersey, Mr. GARRETT is some- no vote. That is called a discharge peti- sponsor is. Now, these are two worth- body who is truly committed to the tion. The Republicans are doing every- less pieces of information, unless they principles of Constitutional govern- thing in our power to make sure that are joined together. Of course, we are ment, limited government, fiscal re- does come up for a vote. looking at literally hundreds of pages sponsibility. He is a voice of sanity on Now, you may ask, again, why is this of documents that you have to sift this floor. He is admired and respected important to me? As I explained before through in order to gather that infor- by all of his colleagues, Mr. Speaker, to the gentleman from Texas, what it mation in one place. Basically, it and I certainly appreciate his leader- all really comes down to, it comes would take an army of staffers, or of ship here tonight. down to your tax dollars and where interns, or, maybe, and here’s an idea, It is an important topic that he has they are going to and shouldn’t you maybe of people out in the American introduced here tonight, and that is have the opportunity to know where public going through this, creating an the topic of earmarks, which many those tax dollars actually go to and Excel spreadsheet, if you will, to put people know as pork-barrel spending. I how they are spent. all that information together so it is in know perhaps pork-barrel spending has One thing that you might not know one place. been around since the dawn of the Re- is that when it comes to the trans- You know what? That could have all public, but too often, too often the parency that the Democrat majority been done on the first day that the ap- pork-barrel spending represents a says they have given us and the Amer- propriation bills came out of com- waste of the hard-earned taxpayer ican public when it comes to earmarks, mittee, by the committee staff them- money.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:32 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.100 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10751 If you look at the Federal budget, There is $231,000 for the Lincoln Air- are known as appropriation earmarks. and both myself and the gentleman port Commission, an airport in Illinois Ostensibly, the Democrats, our friends from New Jersey, Mr. Speaker, serve that doesn’t exist, and an airport that from the other side of the aisle, have on the Budget Committee, the dollars was supposed to come out of the pri- given us some limited accountability involved are still big. They are still vate sector. And the list goes on and on there. But there is also something big. We, in this Nation, and we should and on. known as tax earmarks. There is some- be ashamed of this, this body should be Now, I am not here, Mr. Speaker, to thing known as authorizing earmarks, ashamed that it spends more money on say that every single earmark is a bad more creative ways to spend the peo- earmarks than it does for the entire use of the people’s money. But, more ple’s money. It is all pork. If you want veterans health care system. Think often than not, earmarking represents to go on a lean pork diet, you just can’t about that. Think about that, Mr. a triumph of seniority over merit. It cut out the sausage. You have to cut Speaker. This is wrong. represents a triumph of secrecy over out the bacon and the ham as well. The In the last election, the Democrat accountability. And because of that, it Democrats said they were going to do party said they were going to be dif- wastes the people’s money and it leads so much more, and they have done so ferent. I agree with the gentleman to the culture of spending. much less. from New Jersey. We are both Repub- The American people are not over- We all know recently in what is licans. We were not always happy with taxed. The Federal Government spends known as the SCHIP bill, and, Mr. the leadership that we saw in our party too much. We know, Mr. Speaker, al- Speaker, we all know that Washington in dealing with earmarks, in dealing ready with just the government we excels at acronyms, but in this par- with the ‘‘bridges to nowhere,’’ in deal- have today, adding no new programs, ticular bill, approximately 25 Members ing with the ‘‘indoor rain forest’’ and no new benefits, just the government of Congress in the dark of night man- all the other earmarks that have come we have today is destined to bankrupt aged to cut some kind of deal in a to really represent fiscal irrespon- our children and grandchildren. smoke-filled backroom to get extra re- sibility. But my party finally awoke to Don’t take my word for it. The imbursements for their hospitals that the fact that the people would not tol- Comptroller General of America, the nobody else in America receives. erate this. chief fiduciary officer of our govern- Supposedly we were supposed to have The Republican party at the end of ment, has said that we are on the verge accountability. Supposedly we were the last Congress put in reforms to at of being the very first America genera- supposed to have transparency. But not least bring in the disinfectant of sun- tion in American history to leave the with all the loopholes that the Demo- shine into this body, so we at least next generation with a lower standard crats have put in to their so-called ear- knew where the earmarks were coming of living. Think about that, Mr. Speak- mark reform process. from, who was the sponsor, and we had er. It has never happened in the entire So I would like to say that talk is the ability, we had the ability to come history of America, that we could be cheap, but, unfortunately, talk is rath- to this floor, to come to the people’s the first generation to break faith with er expensive here, costing billions and House and offer amendments to strike all those other generations that have billions of dollars in earmarks that the those earmarks. left us with an America with greater Democrats refuse to clean up, that Now, the Democrat party had in freedom and greater opportunity. Now they claimed they would clean up in some respects rightfully criticized the here we are spending the people’s the 2006 election, and instead they keep Republican party. They said, well, if money, taking away from people who on coming. you will allow us to come to power, we do not vote because they are children I remember introducing an amend- will be different. We’ll be different. The and those who have not yet been born, ment on the floor to restrict an ear- Speaker said, ‘‘We pledge to make this and because of the spending patterns of mark that was geared towards the Hol- the most honest, ethical and open Con- the Federal Government, we are due to lywood movie industry to help train gress in history.’’ She also went on to leave them a lower standard of living. people, train people for Hollywood, this say, ‘‘I would just as soon do away with It was just this week on Wednesday struggling movie industry whose top all earmarks.’’ Yet now we wake up that my wife and I celebrated our son’s ten box office hits from just a few and the Speaker of the House, I believe, fourth birthday. We have a daughter weeks ago grossed almost $1 billion. now gets more earmarks than any who is 51⁄2. We have a great stake in Somehow the American taxpayer has other Member of Congress. If you are America’s future. I will not be a part, to help them recruit people for their going to lead, you have to lead by ex- the gentleman from New Jersey will movie sets. ample. not be a part, the Republican Study The list goes on and on and on. Noth- So what the Democrats have done, Committee will not be a part, the Re- ing, nothing has been done. The dollars Mr. Speaker, is that they have rolled publican Conference will not be a part are still going to the Saint Joseph’s back the transparency, they have of leaving the next generation with College theater renovation in Indiana; rolled back the accountability that the that lower standard of living; restrict- $150,000 for the Kansas Regional Pris- Republicans put in, albeit too late, in ing their freedoms, restricting their op- ons Museum in Lansing, Kansas. the last Congress. portunities, leaving an America that is There is no accountability. There is This is how under Democrat leader- less than the America we know. We no transparency. There is no reform ship we end up with the $2 million ear- won’t be a part of it. here. And because of this, because of mark for the Rangel Center for Public It all starts with the earmarks. The this, the next generation is looking at Service requested by none other than earmarks are the culture of spending. I a lower standard of living. Congressman CHARLES RANGEL to pro- wish I had been creative enough or ar- That is why I am so happy that the vide himself with an office and a li- ticulate enough to come up with the gentleman from New Jersey has come brary. This is transparency? This is ac- line from the Senator from Oklahoma, to the floor to lead on this issue for all countability? This is fiscal responsi- who said, ‘‘Earmarks are the gateway of the American people, and I am bility? One Member of Congress decides drug to spending addiction.’’ happy to yield back to him. to take $2 million of the people’s They teach people to become depend- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. On money and build a museum to himself? ent upon the Federal Government. It just your last point, you raised this a This is what the Democrats call re- totally, totally puts the value of merit moment ago, and before I say this, sponsibility? This is what they call fis- aside, and, because of that, it is critical happy birthday to your 4-year-old. But cal responsibility? that we reform the process and restrict maybe if your 4-year-old knew exactly There is $1 million for the Center for the number of earmarks. what the debt that he has is, he would Instrumental Critical Infrastructure in Democrats, the Democrats who in not have been so happy at his birthday Congressman MURTHA’s district? No the last election on some occasions party. one, including the chairman, no one, again rightfully criticized the Repub- including the chairman who wrote the licans for our earmark practice, but in- b 2130 bill, could confirm that the organiza- stead they are rolling it back. You raised the point that the next tion even existed. But somehow they Now, it is a little bit of inside base- generation for the first time in Amer- are going to end up with $1 million. ball, but in Washington you have what ican history is not going to be as well

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.101 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10752 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 off as the previous generation. Before can’t just have earmarks viewed as ap- every day that we are in session here of you came here, I said one of the things propriation bills unless you take up Republican Members standing down in that I learned early on in politics from earmarks in tax bills and earmarks in the well signing the discharge petition, a Member from the other side of the authorization bills. But if you are so they know it is coming. aisle back in my county was: What going to have earmarks and you are But let me give you two other quotes does this do for me? Or in this case: going to have transparencies, you have of what folks from the other side of the What does this do to me? to do it in the appropriation bills and aisle were saying last year about this. In this case it really hits home for in the tax bills and in the authoriza- When they were talking about the someone such as yourself or someone tion bills. I would put it in writing.’’ measure that would only provide for else who has a little one back at home. Who said that? Representative NANCY appropriations and not authorizations What does it do for my children? What PELOSI, California. last year, they said: ‘‘It is a half meas- does it do for my grandchildren? Or in Likewise, ‘‘To not do something ure at best that would do nothing to this case, what does it do to them? Of about Authorizing Committee ear- stop wasteful and unnecessary projects course, in this case, it saddles them marks in the process is a joke, in my like the bridge to nowhere.’’ That was with a debt, an obligation, for some- view.’’ Who said that? DAVID OBEY. the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. thing that they are not gaining any So we knew where they stood last HOLT). benefit from; but you and I and others year when they had their positions on Finally, ‘‘My proposal requires the in this generation may be gaining ben- transparency. Now that they are in the public disclosure of all earmarks, not efit from. But who is paying for it, majority, we wonder exactly where just those of the Appropriations Com- your 4-year-old. And that, of course, is they stand this year, when they have mittee, but authorizing and tax bills not fair. the ability to do something about it. I and much, much more.’’ Who said that? So many times, so many times we yield to the gentleman from Texas. Representative SLAUGHTER from New hear Members come to the floor and Mr. HENSARLING. I thank the gen- York, now head of the Rules Com- say: here is my program. Here is my tleman for yielding, and this is a very mittee. earmark. Fill in the blank for whatever important issue for this body to take So we seem to have some very impor- it is. It is the compassionate thing to up. tant people here last year from the do, to spend this money on this pro- Again, the term ‘‘discharge peti- other side of the aisle starting with gram. tion,’’ what does it mean? It is some- NANCY PELOSI, Speaker, to head of the Well, I guess it might be compas- thing that shouldn’t be necessary. Rules Committee saying they agree sionate if they were reaching into their What it says is we are asking Members with our ideas as far as broadening ear- pocket and pulling out their own to have the leadership schedule a vote mark reform and transparency. money to pay for that particular pro- on this bill so that the Democrats can’t So maybe tonight, and I think we gram. But, gosh, in the 5 years I have roll back the transparency and ac- only have a couple more minutes, I been here, I have not seen any Member countability reforms that the Repub- would be willing to stay with you here of Congress when they came with their licans put in at the end of the last Con- on the floor if you would join me, if program say they are going to spend gress. Again, we are talking about anyone from the other side of the aisle, for it. No, they are just going to saddle porkbarrel spending here. leadership from NANCY PELOSI’s office it onto America’s debt. Every single leader of the Democrat or the Rules Committee, to come and As you said, if you have little ones Party claimed they wanted more ac- join me and say they will sign on to out there, that debt is not necessarily countability. They wanted more trans- our petition, or if the Speaker would paid for by you and I, the current parency, and then they go and exempt agree to move that piece of legislation American taxpayers. It is going to be two-thirds of the spending in what we since that is what they wanted to do passed on the next generation. call authorizing. So they left out huge The question we should be asking the last year when they were in the minor- categories of this. But we shouldn’t be other side of the aisle, after they railed ity, and if they will do it now that they against the Republicans for spending so surprised because right after the elec- are in the majority. Will you wait with much, now they are spending even tion, when they were bringing spending me if they indicate they will come to more. Now they are going to have to bills to the floor, they actually wanted the floor? raise taxes under their PAYGO rules. us to vote on the spending bill and then Mr. HENSARLING. I will be happy to We will get to that in a little bit. How later, only later were they going to tell stay here as long as necessary to have compassionate are they when they us what the earmarks were in the bill. the Democrat leadership commit to the transfer that burden, when they trans- They tried to hide them from us. We words they made before the election fer that debt on to future generations? brought that to the attention of the and have their actions after the elec- Keeping to this issue of how to fix American people and the American tion comport with those words before the problem, the gentleman from people said no. And we enjoyed a vic- the election. Texas, you might want to comment on tory. Fiscal conservatives made the And if I could, and I know that time the petition that is currently being cir- Democrats at least make good on that is coming to a close, I would like to culated, a discharge petition which I pledge and bring this transparency and add, as you brought up, every Member explained earlier, and how that will ad- accountability back here. who comes to this floor with an ear- dress the issue of authorization lan- So this is a very important effort of mark says this is a good thing; the guage as well. the Republicans in the House, and we money can be used for a good cause. I But before you do that, let me share hope we will be joined by the Demo- don’t doubt that. There are many good with you a quote or two with regards crats who claim that they are com- causes in America. The YMCA, the Girl to what the other side of the aisle said mitted to fiscal responsibility, who Scouts, cut flowers. There are a lot of about this process last year when they claim that they want to have earmark great causes. But the question is, num- were in the minority. This is actually reform. They complained that the Re- ber one: Is it a Federal priority and something I had put forward last year publican earmark reforms didn’t go far how do we pay for it today? to say when it comes to earmark re- enough, and yet they rolled them back. Today, since the Federal Government form, you can’t just look at appropria- All we are saying is bring us what we continues to run a deficit, although tion bills; you have to look at the au- had at the end of the last Congress. under our President’s leadership with thorization language. And as men- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Mr. more tax revenue from economic tioned before with the earmark from Speaker, you raise a point: this is what growth, it is falling. But right now, the the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. they were saying last year but they are money for a earmark can only come MURTHA), the $400 million earmark, not doing it this year. We are hopeful from one of three sources. number one, that was in essence done through au- that at least now that we have dis- by raiding the Social Security trust thorization language. You have to do cussed this on the floor, the informa- fund. Is the earmark worth taking both of these. tion is out there, the discharge petition money away from our seniors? The other side of the aisle agreed is going forward, although that has not Under the Democrats, we now have a with us at that time. They said, ‘‘You been a secret because there is a line plan for the single largest tax increase

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.103 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10753 in history, almost $3,000 per family. (H.R. 976) to amend the Internal Rev- grams, and for other purposes; to the Com- More earmarks lead to more taxes. Is it enue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief mittee on the Judiciary in addition to the worth putting a $3,000 tax burden on a for small businesses, and for other pur- Committee on Energy and Commerce and the family of four to pay for the Charlie poses, which was referred to the House Committee on Education and Labor for a pe- riod to be subsequently determined by the Rangel Museum to himself? Or debt to Calendar and ordered to be printed. Speaker, in each case for consideration of our children and grandchildren? Is the f such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Charlie Rangel Museum to himself, is tion of the committee concerned. that worth passing on $2 million of LEAVE OF ABSENCE f debt to our children and grandchildren? By unanimous consent, leave of ab- It is not worth passing on that debt to sence was granted to: ENROLLED BILL SIGNED my children, and it is not worth pass- Mr. BISHOP of Georgia (at the request Ms. Lorraine C. Miller, Clerk of the ing on that debt to the children of the of Mr. HOYER) for today and September House, reported and found truly en- people of the Fifth Congressional Dis- 25 on account of official business. rolled a bill of the House of the fol- trict of Texas, much less the children Mr. HONDA (at the request of Mr. lowing title, which was thereupon of the people of America. HOYER) for today on account of official signed by the Speaker: And so I thank the gentleman from business. H.R. 3528. An act to provide authority to New Jersey for his leadership, his prin- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas the Peace Corps to provide separation pay cipled leadership, in trying to reform (at the request of Mr. HOYER) for today for host country resident personal services earmarks. on account of family matters. contractors of the Peace Corps. Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. I think Mr. STUPAK (at the request of Mr. f our time is just about up, and I appre- HOYER) for today on account of busi- ciate your efforts not only tonight, but ness in the district. ADJOURNMENT throughout your entire time here. It Mr. HERGER (at the request of Mr. Mr. ARCURI. Mr. Speaker, I move has been a pleasure working with you BOEHNER) for today and September 25 that the House do now adjourn. in the House while you stand beside the on account of illness. The motion was agreed to; accord- American family and the American Mr. LUCAS (at the request of Mr. ingly (at 9 o’clock and 56 minutes family budget. BOEHNER) for today on account of fam- p.m.), under its previous order, the Americans place much responsibility ily health issues. House adjourned until tomorrow, Tues- in the hands of their Representatives Mr. POE (at the request of Mr. day, September 25, 2007, at 9 a.m., for in Congress. The American public de- BOEHNER) for today after 7:00 p.m. and morning-hour debate. serves to know where their hard-earned September 25 on account of official f tax dollars go. They have a right to business. this information. If the Democrat ma- f EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, jority is not going to literally open the ETC. SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED books in a clear and concise manner so Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive the American public and Members of By unanimous consent, permission to communications were taken from the Congress know where the dollars go, if address the House, following the legis- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: the Democrat majority is not going to lative program and any special orders 3417. A letter from the Chief, Recruiting give us the transparency that the heretofore entered, was granted to: Policy Branch, Department of Defense, American public deserves when it (The following Members (at the re- transmitting the Department’s final rule — comes to where their dollars go, then quest of Mrs. JONES of Ohio) to revise Recruiting and Enlistments [Docket No. the Republican Party and the Repub- and extend their remarks and include USA-2007-0017] (RIN: 0702-AA57) received Sep- lican minority will see to it that the extraneous material:) tember 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. job is done on behalf of the American Ms. WATERS, for 5 minutes, today. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Armed Services. public. Mr. MICHAUD, for 5 minutes, today. 3418. A letter from the Counsel for Legisla- f Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. tion and Regulations, Department of Hous- Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, for 5 RECESS ing and Urban Development, transmitting minutes, today. the Department’s final rule — Public Hous- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. ing Operating Fund Program; Revised Tran- BRALEY of Iowa). Pursuant to clause (The following Members (at the re- sition Funding Schedule for Calendar Years 12(a) of rule I, the Chair declares the quest of Mr. MCCARTHY of California) 2007 Through 2012 [Docket Number FR-5105- House in recess subject to the call of to revise and extend their remarks and F-02] (RIN: 2577-AC72) received September 4, the Chair. include extraneous material:) 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Accordingly (at 9 o’clock and 40 min- Committee on Financial Services. Mr. POE, for 5 minutes, September 28 3419. A letter from the Director, Regula- utes p.m.), the House stood in recess and October 1. tions Policy and Mgmt. Staff, Department of subject to the call of the Chair. Mr. JONES of North Carolina, for 5 Health and Human Services, transmitting f minutes, September 28 and October 1. the Department’s final rule — Medical De- Mr. BURTON of Indiana, for 5 minutes, vices: Immunology and Microbiology De- b 2155 today and September 25, 26, 27, and 28. vices: Classification of In Vitro Human Im- munodeficiency Virus Drug Resistance Geno- AFTER RECESS Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida, for 5 minutes, today. type Assay [Docket No. 2007N-0294] received The recess having expired, the House September 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. was called to order by the Speaker pro Mr. ROHRABACHER, for 5 minutes, 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and September 25. tempore (Mr. BRALEY of Iowa) at 9 Commerce. o’clock and 55 minutes p.m. f 3420. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- f SENATE BILL REFERRED sion, transmitting the Commission’s final REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- A bill of the Senate of the following rule — In the Matter of Amendment of Sec- VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF title was taken from the Speaker’s tion 73.202(b), Table of Allotments, FM Broadcast Stations. (Charleston and Engle- SENATE AMENDMENTS TO H.R. table and, under the rule, referred as wood, Tennessee) [MB Docket No. 05-273 RM- 976, CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSUR- follows: 11273 RM-11307] received September 4, 2007, ANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZA- S. 456. An act to increase and enhance law pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- TION ACT OF 2007 enforcement resources committed to inves- mittee on Energy and Commerce. Mr. ARCURI, from the Committee on tigation and prosecution of violent gangs, to 3421. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media deter and punish violent gang crime, to pro- Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- Rules, submitted a privileged report tect law-abiding citizens and communities sion, transmitting the Commission’s final (Rept. No. 110–346) on the resolution (H. from violent criminals, to revise and en- rule — In the Matter of Amendment of Sec- Res. 675) providing for consideration of hance criminal penalties for violent crimes, tion 73.202(b), FM Table of Allotments, FM the Senate amendments to the bill to expand and improve gang prevention pro- Broadcast Stations. (Waukomis, Oklahoma)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE7.104 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H10754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 24, 2007 Reclassification of License of Station KYQQ rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic the Committee on Transportation and Infra- (FM), Arkansas City, Kansas [MB Docket No. Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Ocean Perch In the structure. 06-46 RM-11256 File No. BLH-19880120KA] re- Western Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alas- 3440. A letter from the Program Analyst, ceived September 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 ka [Docket No. 070213032-7032-01] (RIN: 0648- Department of Transportation, transmitting U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on En- XB86) received September 4, 2007, pursuant the Department’s final rule — Establishment ergy and Commerce. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on of Class E Airspace; Wellsboro, PA [Docket 3422. A letter from the Director, Office of Natural Resources. No. FAA-2006-23909; Airspace Docket No. 06- Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory 3432. A letter from the Deputy Assistant AEA-005] received September 14, 2007, pursu- Commission, transmitting the Commission’s Administrator For Regulatory Programs, ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee final rule — List of Approved Spent Fuel NMFS, National Oceanic and Atmospheric on Transportation and Infrastructure. Storage Casks: TN-68 Revision 1 (RIN: 3150- Administration, transmitting the Adminis- 3441. A letter from the Program Analyst, AI21) received September 4, 2007, pursuant to tration’s final rule — Fisheries of the North- Department of Transportation, transmitting 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on eastern United States; Northeast Multispe- the Department’s final rule — Establishment Energy and Commerce. cies Fishery; Haddock Size Limit Change of Class E Airspace; Tunkhannock, PA 3423. A letter from the Director, Office of [Docket No. 070709299-7300-01] (RIN: 0648- [Docket No. FAA-2006-23895; Airspace Docket Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory AV75) received September 4, 2007, pursuant No. 06-AEA-01] received September 14, 2007, Commission, transmitting the Commission’s to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- final rule — NRC Size Standards; Revision Natural Resources. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- (RIN: 3150-AI15) received September 4, 2007, 3433. A letter from the Acting Director Of- ture. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- 3442. A letter from the Program Analyst, mittee on Energy and Commerce. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- Department of Transportation, transmitting 3424. A letter from the Human Resources tion, transmitting the Administration’s final the Department’s final rule — Establishment Specialist, Department of Labor, transmit- rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic of Class E Airspace; Wilkes Barre, PA [Dock- ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Ocean Perch and et No. FAA-2006-23908; Airspace Docket No. cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on Pelagic Shelf Rockfish in the Western Regu- 06-AEA-004] received September 14, 2007, pur- Oversight and Government Reform. latory Area in the Gulf of Alaska [Docket suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- 3425. A letter from the Human Resources No. 070213032-7032-01] (RIN: 0648-XB79) re- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- Specialist, Department of Labor, transmit- ceived September 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 ture. 3443. A letter from the Director, Regula- ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Nat- tions and Disclosure Law, Department of cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on ural Resources. Oversight and Government Reform. 3434. A letter from the Acting Director Of- Homeland Security, transmitting the De- 3426. A letter from the Acting Senior Pro- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- partment’s final rule — NAFTA: MERCHAN- DISE PROCESSING FEE EXEMPTION AND curement Executive, (OCAO), GSA, General tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS [USCBP-2006- Services Administration, transmitting the tion, transmitting the Administration’s final 0090 CBP Dec. 07-76] (RIN: 1505-AB58) received Administration’s final rule — Federal Acqui- rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic September 12, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. sition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Cir- Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Catcher 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ways and cular 2005-18; Small Entity Compliance Processor Vessels Using Trawl Gear in the Guide [Docket FAR-2007-002, Sequence 3] re- Means. Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Manage- 3444. A letter from the Chief, Publications ceived September 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 ment Area [Docket No. 070213033-7033-01] and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on (RIN: 0648-XB89) received September 4, 2007, Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule Oversight and Government Reform. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- — 26 CFR 1.817-5: Diversification require- 3427. A letter from the Acting Senior Pro- mittee on Natural Resources. ments for variable annuity, endowment, and curement Executive, (OCAO), GSA, General 3435. A letter from the Acting Director Of- life insurance contracts (Also 408(p), 408(q), Services Administration, transmitting the fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- 408A, 415(m), 457(f).) (Rev. Rul. 2007-58) re- Administration’s final rule — Federal Acqui- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- ceived September 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 sition Regulation; FAR Case 2006-032, Small tion, transmitting the Administration’s final U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Business Size Representation [FAC 2005-18; rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Ways and Means. FAR Case 2006-032; Item I; Docket 2007-001, Zone Off Alaska; Rock Sole, Flathead Sole, 3445. A letter from the Chief, Publications Sequence 4] (RIN: 9000-AK78) received Sep- and ‘‘Other Flatfish’’ by Vessels Using Trawl and Regulations, Internal Revenue Service, tember 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Gear in Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands transmitting the Service’s final rule — Sec- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Oversight Management Area [Docket No. 070213033-7033- tion 807. — Rules for Certain Reserves (Also and Government Reform. 01] (RIN: 0648-XB88) received September 4, 805, 812, 832) (Rev. Proc. 2007-61) received Sep- 3428. A letter from the Acting Senior Pro- 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the tember 12, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. curement Executive, (OCAO), GSA, General Committee on Natural Resources. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ways and Services Administration, transmitting the 3436. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Means. Administration’s final rule — Federal Acqui- Administrator for Operations, NMFS, Na- 3446. A letter from the Chief, Publications sition Regulation; Federal Acquisition Cir- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- and Regulations, Internal Revenue Service, cular 2005-18; Introduction [Docket FAR-2007- tion, transmitting the Administration’s final transmitting the Service’s final rule — 2008 002, Sequence 3] received September 4, 2007, rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Transition Relief and Additional Guidance pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Zone Off Alaska; Individual Fishing Quota on the Application of 409A to Nonqualified mittee on Oversight and Government Re- Program; Community Development Quota Deferred Compensation Plans [Notice 2007-78] form. Program [Docket No. 0612242964-7332-02; I.D. received September 12, 2007, pursuant to 5 3429. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, 080106C] received September 4, 2007, pursuant U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Fish and Wildlife & Parks, Department of to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ways and Means. the Interior, transmitting the Department’s Natural Resources. 3447. A letter from the SSA Regulations Of- final rule — 2007-2008 Hunting and Sport 3437. A letter from the Program Analyst, ficer, Social Security Administration, trans- Fishing Regulations for the Upper Mis- Department of Transportation, transmitting mitting the Administration’s final rule — sissippi River National Wildlife and Fish the Department’s final rule — Establishment Amendment to the Attorney Advisor Pro- Refuge (RIN: 1018-AV36) received September of Class E Airspace; Ridgeway, PA [Docket gram [Docket No. SSA 2007-0036] (RIN: 0960- 4, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to No. FAA-2006-23907; Airspace Docket No. 06- AG49) received September 4, 2007, pursuant the Committee on Natural Resources. AEA-03] received September 14, 2007, pursu- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on 3430. A letter from the Acting Director Of- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee Ways and Means. fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- on Transportation and Infrastructure. f tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- 3438. A letter from the Program Analyst, tion, transmitting the Administration’s final Department of Transportation, transmitting REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic the Department’s final rule — Establishment PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Ocean Perch for of Class E Airspace; Troy, PA [Docket No. Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Trawl Catcher Vessels Participating in the FAA-2006-24318; Airspace Docket No. 06-AEA- Rockfish Entry Level Fishery in the Central 007] received September 14, 2007, pursuant to committees were delivered to the Clerk Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on for printing and reference to the proper [Docket No. 070213032-7032-01] (RIN: 0648- Transportation and Infrastructure. calendar, as follows: XB81) received September 4, 2007, pursuant 3439. A letter from the Program Analyst, Mr. RANGEL: Committee on Ways and to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Department of Transportation, transmitting Means. H.R. 3046. A bill to amend the Social Natural Resources. the Department’s final rule — Establishment Security Act to enhance Social Security ac- 3431. A letter from the Acting Director Of- of Class E Airspace: Jersey Shore Airport, count number privacy protections, to pre- fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- PA [Docket No. FAA-2006-23904; Airspace vent fraudulent misuse of the Social Secu- tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- Docket No. 06-AEA-02] received September rity account number, and to otherwise en- tion, transmitting the Administration’s final 14, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to hance protection against identity theft, and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:15 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L24SE7.000 H24SEPT1 bajohnson on PRODPC61 with HOUSE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10755 for other purposes; with an amendment [The following action occurred on September 21, maintenance of a James Madison memorial (Rept. 110–339). Referred to the Committee of 2007] in Washington, DC, and for other purposes; the Whole House on the State of the Union. H.R. 1400. Referral to the Committees on to the Committee on Natural Resources. Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts: Committee Ways and Means, Financial Services, Over- By Mrs. MUSGRAVE: on Financial Services. H.R. 3121. A bill to re- sight and Government Reform, and the Judi- H.R. 3641. A bill to allow teachers in rural store the financial solvency of the national ciary extended for a period ending not later areas who are highly qualified in one subject flood insurance program and to provide for than September 24, 2007. to have 3 years from their hiring date to be- such program to make available multiperil come highly qualified in each additional sub- coverage for damage resulting from wind- f ject they teach; to the Committee on Edu- storms and floods, and for other purposes, PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS cation and Labor. with an amendment (Rept. 110–340). Referred By Mr. PAYNE: to the Committee of the Whole House on the Under clause 2 of rule XII, public H.R. 3642. A bill to amend the Elementary State of the Union. bills and resolutions were introduced and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to pro- Mr. CONYERS: Committee on the Judici- and severally referred, as follows: vide grants for expanded learning time ary. H.R. 1199. A bill to extend the grant pro- By Mr. MANZULLO (for himself, Mr. schools and programs; to the Committee on Education and Labor. gram for drug-endangered children (Rept. CROWLEY, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. By Ms. PELOSI (for herself, Mrs. JONES 110–341 Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. BLUMENAUER, Mrs. TAUSCHER, Mr. of Ohio, and Ms. SLAUGHTER): Mr. CONYERS: Committee on the Judici- AKIN, Ms. WATSON, Mr. POE, Mr. H.R. 3643. A bill to amend the Public ary. H.R. 1943. A bill to provide for an effec- SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. FORTUN˜ O, Mr. Health Service Act to establish a Coordi- tive HIV/AIDS program in Federal prisons FLAKE, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, Mr. nated Environmental Public Health Net- (Rept. 110–342). Referred to the Committee of HARE, Mr. SMITH of Washington, and work, and for other purposes; to the Com- the Whole House on the State of the Union. Mr. MCCAUL of Texas): mittee on Energy and Commerce. Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota: Committee H.R. 3633. A bill to provide for export con- By Mr. SHAYS (for himself and Mr. on Agriculture. House Resolution 79. Resolu- trols of certain items relating to civil air- BLUMENAUER): tion recognizing the establishment of Hunt- craft; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. H.R. 3644. A bill to establish a nonpartisan ers for the Hungry programs across the By Mr. CLEAVER: Commission on Natural Catastrophe Risk United States and the contributions of those H.R. 3634. A bill to establish and determine Management and Insurance, and for other programs efforts to decrease hunger and help the eligibility of individuals for a loan for- purposes; to the Committee on Financial feed those in need (Rept. 110–343). Referred to giveness program for professional engineers Services. the House Calendar. in order to provide incentives for engineers By Mr. SPACE (for himself, Ms. SUT- Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota: Committee currently employed and engineering students TON, Ms. MATSUI, and Mr. on Agriculture. House Concurrent Resolu- and other students pursuing or considering RODRIGUEZ): tion 25. Resolution expressing the sense of pursuing a degree in science, technology and Congress that it is the goal of the United H.R. 3645. A bill to implement rec- engineering, and for the support of students ommendations of the President’s Commis- States that, not later than January 1, 2025, pursing such secondary and postsecondary the agricultural, forestry, and working land sion on Care for America’s Returning education; to the Committee on Education Wounded Warriors; to the Committee on of the United States should provide from re- and Labor. newable resources not less than 25 percent of Armed Services, and in addition to the Com- By Mr. CLAY (for himself, Mr. REYES, mittees on Veterans’ Affairs, Education and the total energy consumed in the United and Mr. RUSH): States and continue to produce safe, abun- Labor, House Administration, and Oversight H.R. 3635. A bill to amend the Public and Government Reform, for a period to be dant, and affordable food, feed, and fiber Health Service Act to establish a National (Rept. 110–344 pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. subsequently determined by the Speaker, in Organ and Tissue Donor Registry Resource each case for consideration of such provi- Mr. RANGEL: Committee on Ways and Center, to authorize grants for State organ Means. H.R. 3375. A bill to extend the trade sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the and tissue donor registries, and for other committee concerned. adjustment assistance program under the purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Trade Act of 1974 for 3 months; with an By Mr. STEARNS: Commerce. H.R. 3646. A bill to direct the Secretary of amendment (Rept. 110–345). Referred to the By Mr. BLUMENAUER (for himself and Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Labor Committee of the Whole House on the State Mr. PALLONE): to conduct a joint study on the fields of em- of the Union. H.R. 3636. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- ployment for which the greatest need for em- Mr. MCGOVERN: Committee on Rules. enue Code of 1986 to extend the financing of ployees exists in various geographic areas; to House Resolution 675. Resolution providing the Superfund; to the Committee on Ways the Committee on Education and Labor, and for the consideration of the Senate amend- and Means. in addition to the Committee on Veterans’ ments to the bill (H.R. 976) to amend the In- By Mr. BLUMENAUER (for himself, Affairs, for a period to be subsequently de- ternal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax Mr. EHLERS, Mr. WU, and Mr. BOU- termined by the Speaker, in each case for relief for small businesses, and for other pur- CHER): consideration of such provisions as fall with- poses (Rept. 110–346). Referred to the House H.R. 3637. A bill to direct the Secretary of in the jurisdiction of the committee con- Calendar. Education to provide grants to establish and cerned. DISCHARGE OF COMMITTEE evaluate sustainability programs, charged By Mr. WILSON of Ohio (for himself, Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII, the with developing and implementing inte- Mr. ROSS, Mr. ALLEN, Mr. BERRY, and Committee on Energy and Commerce grated environmental, economic and social Mr. ADERHOLT): discharged from further consideration. sustainability initiatives, and to direct the H.R. 3647. A bill to delay for 6 months the Secretary of Education to convene a summit requirement to use tamper-resistant pre- H.R. 1199 referred to the Committee of of higher education experts in the area of the Whole House on the State of the scription pads under the Medicaid Program; sustainability; to the Committee on Edu- to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Union. cation and Labor. By Mr. BACA: Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII the By Mr. BURTON of Indiana: H.J. Res. 51. A joint resolution dis- Committees on Ways and Means, Fi- H.R. 3638. A bill to end the cycle of illegal approving the rule submitted to the Congress nancial Services, Oversight and Gov- immigration in the United States; to the by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Serv- ernment Reform and Judiciary dis- Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition ices requiring certain lawful permanent resi- charged from further consideration. to the Committee on Homeland Security, for dents to apply for a new Permanent Resident a period to be subsequently determined by H.R. 1400 referred to the Committee of Card; to the Committee on the Judiciary. the Speaker, in each case for consideration By Mr. DINGELL (for himself and Mr. the Whole on the State of the Union. of such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- BARTON of Texas): Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII the tion of the committee concerned. H. Con. Res. 217. Concurrent resolution to Committees on Energy and Commerce By Mr. FARR (for himself, Mrs. CAPPS, correct technical errors in the enrollment of and Natural Resources discharged. H. Ms. ESHOO, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. the bill H.R. 3580; to the Committee on En- Con. Res. 25 referred to the House Cal- DEFAZIO, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. HIN- ergy and Commerce, and in addition to the endar and ordered to be printed. CHEY, Mr. KENNEDY, Ms. LEE, and Mr. Committee on House Administration, for a GEORGE MILLER of California): period to be subsequently determined by the f H.R. 3639. A bill to establish a program of Speaker, in each case for consideration of research and other activities to provide for such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- TIME LIMITATION OF REFERRED the recovery of the southern sea otter; to the tion of the committee concerned. BILL Committee on Natural Resources. By Mr. BARRETT of South Carolina: By Mr. HILL: H. Con. Res. 218. Concurrent resolution ex- Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII the H.R. 3640. A bill to establish the James pressing the sense of Congress regarding following action was taken by the Madison Memorial Commission to develop a United States immigration and border secu- Speaker: plan of action for the establishment and rity laws; to the Committee on Homeland

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Security, and in addition to the Committee gress of the United States to authorize the H.R. 1222: Mr. GOODE. on the Judiciary, for a period to be subse- Department of Veterans Affairs to convey H.R. 1223: Mr. GOODE and Mr. MICA. quently determined by the Speaker, in each the Thomas T. Connally Department of Vet- H.R. 1228: Mr. OBERSTAR. case for consideration of such provisions as erans Affairs Medical Center in Marlin, H.R. 1245: Mr. HULSHOF, Mr. JINDAL, and fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Texas, to the State of Texas; to the Com- Mr. GONZALEZ. concerned. mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. H.R. 1283: Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. BISHOP of By Mr. CLYBURN: 202. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of Georgia, Mr. BERMAN, Ms. MATSUI, and Mr. H. Res. 670. A resolution recognizing Col- the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- LARSEN of Washington. lege Summit for its achievements in increas- rent Resolution No. 1 urging the Congress of H.R. 1293: Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Mrs. ing the college enrollment rate of low-in- the United States to support legislation for MUSGRAVE, Mr. HOLT, and Mr. come students, and encouraging the Com- veterans’ health care budget reform to allow RUPPERSBERGER. mittee on Education and Labor and the Com- assured funding; to the Committee on Vet- H.R. 1302: Mr. DOYLE. mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and erans’ Affairs. H.R. 1303: Mr. BLUMENAUER. Pensions to determine how the Federal Gov- 203. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H.R. 1328: Ms. CARSON and Mr. CAPUANO. ernment can support the efforts of College the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- H.R. 1338: Mr. BOUCHER. Summit; to the Committee on Education and rent Resolution No. 35 urging the Congress of H.R. 1352: Ms. ESHOO. Labor. the United States to enact legislation to H.R. 1353: Mr. GORDON and Mr. MORAN of By Mr. ISRAEL (for himself and Ms. eliminate the 24-month Medicare waiting pe- Virginia. DELAURO): riod for participants in Social Security Dis- H.R. 1376: Mr. HINOJOSA. H. Res. 671. A resolution supporting the ability Insurance; to the Committee on Ways H.R. 1390: Mr. DUNCAN, Mr. Fortupo, Mr. goals and ideals of National Ovarian Cancer and Means. CHABOT, and Mr. SESSIONS. Awareness Month; to the Committee on 204. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H.R. 1415: Mr. WATT. Oversight and Government Reform. the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- H.R. 1422: Ms. HARMAN. By Ms. MATSUI (for herself and Mr. rent Resolution No. 16 urging the Congress of H.R. 1428: Mr. TIBERI. LATHAM): the United States to support the Belated H.R. 1432: Mr. VAN HOLLEN. H. Res. 672. A resolution supporting the Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of H.R. 1509: Mr. PASCRELL. goals and ideals of National Prostate Cancer World War II Act of 2005; jointly to the Com- H.R. 1514: Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. Awareness Month, and for other purposes; to mittees on Veterans’ Affairs and Ways and H.R. 1553: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Ms. ZOE the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Means. LOFGREN of California, Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. By Mr. SENSENBRENNER: 205. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of BONNER, and Mr. BERMAN. H. Res. 673. A resolution recognizing the the State of Nebraska, relative to Legisla- H.R. 1586: Mr. ISSA, Mr. KLINE of Min- importance of National Preparedness Month tive Resolution No. 28 opposing the enact- nesota, Mr. SAXTON, and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. and encouraging all Americans to take pre- ment or enforcement of the REAL ID Act; H.R. 1644: Mr. SHERMAN and Mr. CHANDLER. cautions to preserve lives and minimize the jointly to the Committees on the Judiciary, H.R. 1647: Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mrs. effects of a terrorist attack; to the Com- Homeland Security, and Oversight and Gov- MUSGRAVE, and Mr. BACHUS. mittee on Homeland Security. ernment Reform. H.R. 1655: Mr. WAMP, Mr. CRAMER, and Mr. TIERNEY. By Mr. WEXLER (for himself, Mr. f ENGEL, Mr. COHEN, Mr. BURTON of In- H.R. 1665: Mr. KELLER, Ms. ROYBAL-AL- diana, Mr. LINDER, Mr. BRADY of ADDITIONAL SPONSORS LARD, and Mr. UDALL of Colorado. H.R. 1671: Ms. CARSON and Ms. HARMAN. Pennsylvania, and Mr. RENZI): Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H. Res. 674. A resolution expressing the un- H.R. 1687: Mr. CALVERT, Mr. ARCURI, and equivocal support of the House of Represent- were added to public bills and resolu- Mr. LATHAM. atives for Israel’s right to self defense in the tions as follows: H.R. 1713: Mr. WELCH of Vermont. face of an imminent nuclear or military H.R. 12: Mr. JINDAL. H.R. 1726: Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. LANTOS, Ms. threat from Syria; to the Committee on For- H.R. 25: Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Flor- BERKLEY, Mr. SAXTON, and Mr. WEXLER. eign Affairs. ida. H.R. 1772: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts and Ms. MATSUI. f H.R. 89: Mr. MICA. H.R. 101: Ms. HIRONO. H.R. 1809: Mr. MILLER of North Carolina MEMORIALS H.R. 111: Mr. MURPHY of Connecticut. and Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Under clause 3 of rule XII, memorials H.R. 133: Mr. HALL of Texas. H.R. 1814: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 138: Mr. ROHRABACHER and Mr. MCIN- H.R. 1869: Mr. BOUCHER, Ms. CLARKE, and were presented and referred as follows: TYRE. Mr. WALBERG. 197. The SPEAKER presented a memorial H.R. 380: Ms. CASTOR and Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 1876: Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. UDALL of Colo- of the Legislature of the State of Texas, rel- H.R. 418: Mr. HELLER. rado, Mr. SIRES, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. 67 H.R. 463: Mr. KAGEN. of Texas, Ms. SCHWARTZ, Mr. LATHAM, Mr. urging the Congress of the United States to H.R. 479: Mr. ROYCE. POMEROY, and Mr. CARDOZA. provide further drought relief to Texas; to H.R. 549: Mr. ETHERIDGE. H.R. 1907: Ms. DELAURO. the Committee on Agriculture. H.R. 551: Mr. HALL of Texas. H.R. 2046: Mr. DELAHUNT. 198. Also, a memorial of the Senate of the H.R. 583: Mr. BARRETT of South Carolina. H.R. 2052: Mr. CAPUANO. Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, relative to H.R. 601: Ms. HARMAN. H.R. 2063: Mr. HOYER, Mr. SARBANES, Mr. Resolution No. 2425 expressing solidarity and H.R. 616: Mr. FOSSELLA and Mr. GENE HINCHEY, Mr. SOUDER, Mr. WYNN, Ms. SHEA- support of the Senate of Puerto Rico to the GREEN of Texas. PORTER, Mr. HARE, and Mr. UDALL of Colo- People of Cuba and its support to the claim H.R. 643: Mr. CARNEY and Mr. BRADY of rado. for the immediate holding of free and true Texas. H.R. 2074: Mr. EMANUEL. democratic elections in our sister island; to H.R. 657: Mr. GONZALEZ. H.R. 2075: Mr. MCNERNEY. the Committee on Foreign Affairs. H.R. 676: Mr. KENNEDY. H.R. 2087: Mr. MATHESON. 199. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H.R. 715: Mr. MEEK of Florida, Mr. WOLF, H.R. 2097: Mr. WYNN. the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, and Mr. LOBIONDO. H.R. 2108: Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Mr. rent Resolution No. 125 urging the Congress H.R. 728: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. CAPUANO, and Mr. LIPINSKI. of the United States to restore full funding H.R. 840: Ms. HARMAN, Mr. WEXLER, and H.R. 2109: Mr. MCHENRY. to the Community Oriented Policing Serv- Mr. GUTIERREZ. H.R. 2122: Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. ices program to assist Texas law enforce- H.R. 946: Mr. MEEKS of New York and Mr. ARCURI, Mr. SCHIFF, Mrs. MALONEY of New ment in patroling the border before author- CLEAVER. York, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, and Mr. BERMAN. izing funding for the police force of the H.R. 992: Mr. ROTHMAN. H.R. 2144: Mr. KAGEN. United Mexican States; to the Committee on H.R. 1064: Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky and Ms. H.R. 2164: Mr. ARCURI. the Judiciary. HARMAN. H.R. 2165: Mr. KUCINICH and Mr. CARNAHAN. 200. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H.R. 1070: Mr. COSTA. H.R. 2167: Mr. ABERCROMBIE. the State of Louisiana, relative to House H.R. 1076: Mr. PAYNE. H.R. 2210: Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Concurrent Resolution No. 41 memorializing H.R. 1092: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. H.R. 2266: Mr. SERRANO and Mr. WEXLER. the Congress of the United States to take H.R. 1125: Mr. DOYLE, Mr. FILNER, Mr. H.R. 2287: Mr. ETHERIDGE. such actions as are necessary to reserach and DICKS, Mrs. SCHMIDT, and Mrs. WILSON of H.R. 2295: Ms. LEE and Mr. HELLER. promote Virtual Command Technology to New Mexico. H.R. 2303: Mr. MILLER of Florida and Mr. improve police, emergency medical services, H.R. 1148: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. and fire protection; to the Committee on H.R. 1157: Mr. CASTLE, Mr. PASCRELL, and H.R. 2329: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN and Mr. BACH- Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. ISSA. US. 201. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of H.R. 1166: Mr. MATHESON. H.R. 2363: Mr. MORAN of Virginia and Mr. the State of Texas, relative to Senate Con- H.R. 1174: Mr. TIERNEY and Ms. ZOE VAN HOLLEN. current Resolution No. 46 urging the Con- LOFGREN of California. H.R. 2371: Mrs. LOWEY.

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H.R. 2417: Mr. STEARNS. H.R. 3204: Mr. WEXLER. H.R. 3585: Mrs. BONO and Ms. WATSON. H.R. 2443: Mrs. CUBIN. H.R. 3213: Mr. COBLE. H.R. 3586: Mr. WAMP. H.R. 2468: Mr. MICHAUD. H.R. 3223: Mr. ORTIZ and Mr. THOMPSON of H.R. 3605: Mr. ELLISON and Ms. SHEA-POR- H.R. 2478: Mr. FARR. California. TER. H.R. 2484: Mr. MCNERNEY. H.R. 3232: Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. THOMPSON of H.R. 3622: Mr. ROSS and Mr. WILSON of H.R. 2503: Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. BOUCHER, , Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. MATHE- South Carolina. and Mr. ROTHMAN. SON, Mr. ROSS, Ms. BERKLEY, Ms. CARSON, H.R. 3631: Mr. GORDON, Mr. CHANDLER, and H.R. 2516: Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, and Mr. MARKEY. Mr. BOUCHER. vania. H.R. 3257: Ms. CARSON and Mr. MORAN of H.J. Res. 6: Mr. COLE of Oklahoma, Mr. H.R. 2537: Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, Virginia. SAM JOHNSON of Texas, and Mr. MILLER of Ms. HARMAN, Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- H.R. 3258: Mr. SIMPSON. Florida. fornia, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California, and H.R. 3282: Mr. WEXLER. H.J. Res. 12: Mr. SIMPSON. Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. H.R. 3294: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. H.J. Res. 47: Ms. ESHOO, Ms. Linda T. H.R. 2574: Mr. LAMPSON. H.R. 3298: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ of California, and Mr. HONDA. H.R. 2610: Mr. SESSIONS. ZOE LOFGREN of California, and Mr. WEXLER. H. Con. Res. 25: Mr. HARE and Mr. SHIMKUS. H.R. 2620: Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. H.R. 3317: Ms. CARSON. H. Con. Res. 32: Mr. WELDON of Florida. H.R. 2634: Mr. EDWARDS, Mr. HONDA, Ms. H.R. 3327: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. H. Con. Res. 70: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey WATSON, Mr. WELCH of Vermont, Mr. MURPHY H.R. 3329: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota and and Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. of Connecticut, Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. Mr. WEXLER. H. Con. Res. 83: Mr. KING of Iowa. H.R. 3331: Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, PASTOR, and Mr. BERMAN. H. Con. Res. 122: Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Ms. KILPATRICK, and Ms. MCCOLLUM of Min- H.R. 2668: Mr. ETHERIDGE. California, Ms. SOLIS, Mr. FERGUSON, Ms. H.R. 2702: Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. SHULER, and nesota. HARMAN, Mr. PITTS, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Ms. H.R. 3334: Mr. BOUCHER. Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. MATSUI, and Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. H.R. 3337: Mr. FARR and Ms. WASSERMAN H.R. 2706: Mrs. MYRICK. H. Con. Res. 133: Mr. MARSHALL. SCHULTZ. H.R. 2717: Mr. PAUL. H. Con. Res. 154: Mr. GALLEGLY, Mr. PAYNE, H.R. 3355: Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. H.R. 2719: Mr. PAUL. Mr. FORTUN˜ O, Mr. MACK, and Mr. ROYCE. H.R. 3380: Mr. SMITH of Washington and Mr. H.R. 2744: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. H. Con. Res. 185: Mr. ANDREWS. MARSHALL. BLUMENAUER, Mr. HINCHEY, Ms. DELAURO, H. Con. Res. 198: Ms. NORTON, Mr. HINCHEY, H.R. 3381: Mr. COHEN. and Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. FILNER, Ms. JACKSON-LEE H.R. 3394: Mr. FILNER. H.R. 2758: Mr. BLUMENAUER and Mr. of Texas, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. H.R. 3406: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Ms. LINDA GUTIERREZ. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms. LINDA T. T. SA´ NCHEZ of California, and Mr. HOLDEN. H.R. 2762: Mr. BLUMENAUER and Mr. BART- SA´ NCHEZ of California, Mr. FARR, and Mr. H.R. 3416: Ms. DELAURO and Mr. MORAN of JOHNSON of Georgia. LETT of Maryland. Virginia. H.R. 2768: Mr. DELAHUNT, Ms. DELAURO, H. Con. Res. 200: Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of H.R. 3429: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. and Mr. ABERCROMBIE. California, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. PITTS, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. KANJORSKI, Mrs. MALONEY of H.R. 2769: Mr. DELAHUNT, Ms. DELAURO, MANZULLO, Mr. FORTUN˜ O, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. New York, Mr. STUPAK, Mr. HOLDEN, Mrs. and Mr. ABERCROMBIE. TOWNS, and Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. BOYDA of Kansas, Mr. ELLSWORTH, and Mr. H.R. 2779: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. H. Con. Res. 204: Mr. GINGREY, Mr. WEXLER. H.R. 2799: Mr. FORBES. TANCREDO, Mr. MILLER of Florida, and Mr. H.R. 3432: Ms. BORDALLO and Ms. CARSON. ILNER C ERNEY POE. H.R. 2802: Mr. F , Mr. M N , and H.R. 3457: Mr. ROSS, Mr. LATHAM, and Mr. EAL H. Con. Res. 208: Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. D of Georgia. BLUMENAUER. H. Res. 76: Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- H.R. 2832: Mr. WEXLER. H.R. 3467: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas and fornia. H.R. 2833: Mr. SARBANES and Mr. MORAN of Mr. CLAY. H. Res. 79: Mr. ROSS. Virginia. H.R. 3481: Mr. DOYLE, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. H. Res. 95: Mr. PENCE. H.R. 2840: Mr. WYNN. HALL of New York, Mr. SMITH of Washington, H. Res. 111: Mr. COBLE, Mr. HAYES, Mr. H.R. 2910: Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. HOLT, Mr. and Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. LANGEVIN, Mr. WU, Mr. PALLONE, and Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Mr. HARE, H.R. 3486: Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. FATTAH, Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. PAUL, and Mr. WILSON of H. Res. 143: Mr. MCNULTY. Mr. LAMPSON, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. MEEKS of Ohio. H. Res. 237: Mr. KENNEDY. New York, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. CROWLEY, and Mr. H.R. 3494: Mrs. MYRICK. H. Res. 282: Mr. BURGESS. HALL of New York. H.R. 3495: Mr. HARE and Ms. EDDIE BERNICE H. Res. 405: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, H.R. 2916: Mr. MCCAUL of Texas. JOHNSON of Texas. Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida, Mr. H.R. 2922: Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 3498: Mr. DOYLE. H.R. 2942: Mr. ARCURI and Mr. BARRETT of H.R. 3508: Mr. CASTLE, Mr. PEARCE, and Mr. ROSKAM, Mr. FOSSELLA, and Mr. PALLONE. South Carolina. GARY G. MILLER of California. H. Res. 470: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Ms. JACK- H.R. 2943: Mr. MCKEON and Mr. SMITH of H.R. 3521: Mr. WILSON of Ohio. SON-LEE of Texas, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. BERMAN, Washington. H.R. 3533: Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. Mr. TURNER, Mrs. LOWEY, and Mr. MOORE of H.R. 2949: Mr. WEINER. HIGGINS, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. Kansas. H.R. 2955: Mr. MEEKS of New York. MEEKS of New York, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, H. Res. 499: Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia and H.R. 2991: Mr. WICKER. Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, Ms. MCCOLLUM Mr. TIBERI. H.R. 3008: Mr. TOWNS. of Minnesota, Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- H. Res. 542: Mr. YOUNG of Florida, Mr. H.R. 3024: Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. fornia, Mr. REYNOLDS, Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. GINGREY, Mr. DOYLE, Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. H.R. 3036: Mr. FARR. FARR, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. ACKERMAN, and Mr. COBLE, Mr. BOYD of Florida, Mr. WOLF, Mr. H.R. 3053: Mr. GORDON and Mr. HERGER. KING of New York. CARNEY, Mr. KING of New York, and Mr. BU- H.R. 3055: Mr. ABERCROMBIE. H.R. 3541: Mr. BUCHANAN, Mr. MORAN of CHANAN. H.R. 3058: Mr. SALAZAR and Ms. LINDA T. Kansas, Mr. CAPUANO, and Mrs. MCCARTHY of H. Res. 548: Mr. INGLIS of South Carolina. SA´ NCHEZ of California. New York. H. Res. 573: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. WEXLER, H.R. 3077: Mr. ALLEN. H.R. 3543: Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. MICHAUD. Mrs. JONES of Ohio, and Mr. SERRANO. H.R. 3081: Mr. ROTHMAN. H.R. 3547: Mr. WEXLER, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, H. Res. 576: Mr. PASTOR. H.R. 3085: Mr. ARCURI. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. CARDOZA, and H. Res. 584: Mr. MOORE of Kansas. H.R. 3090: Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. H. Res. 590: Ms. BERKLEY, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. H.R. 3100: Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. H.R. 3558: Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- PETERSON of Pennsylvania, Mr. HARE, Mr. H.R. 3109: Mrs. JO ANN DAVIS of Virginia. fornia, Mr. FORBES, and Mr. SNYDER. OLVER, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, H.R. 3119: Mr. WELCH of Vermont. H.R. 3562: Ms. BERKLEY. and Ms. SUTTON. H.R. 3121: Mr. BACA, Mr. MELANCON, and H.R. 3563: Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. MORAN of Vir- H. Res. 605: Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. ginia, Mr. FERGUSON, Mr. MARSHALL, and Mr. Mr. MCKEON, Mr. WU, Mr. EDWARDS, Mr. H.R. 3140: Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. LIN- LOBIONDO. GARY G. MILLER of California, Mr. SMITH of COLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida, Ms. JACKSON- H.R. 3564: Mr. SMITH of Texas and Ms. ZOE Texas, and Mr. SMITH of Washington. LEE of Texas, and Mr. LATHAM. LOFGREN of California. H. Res. 618: Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin and H.R. 3168: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. HONDA, H.R. 3566: Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. CASTLE, Mr. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of California, and Ms. FORTUN˜ O, Mr. FERGUSON, Ms. MCCOLLUM of H. Res. 620: Mr. KENNEDY, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Minnesota, and Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. ACKERMAN, and Ms. BERKLEY. H.R. 3174: Mr. SCOTT of Virginia and Mr. H.R. 3567: Mr. TOWNS. H. Res. 630: Mr. GORDON, Mr. BRALEY of HOLT. H.R. 3569: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. MCNERNEY, and Iowa, Mr. HILL, Mr. HONDA, Mr. MOLLOHAN, H.R. 3186: Mr. CARNAHAN and Mr. Ms. HARMAN. Ms. HARMAN, Mr. LANGEVIN, Mr. TANNER, Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 3584: Mr. FORBES, Mr. FORTENBERRY, SHULER, Mr. TAYLOR, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, H.R. 3187: Mr. MCCOTTER. Mr. CULBERSON, Mr. KELLER, Mr. JONES of Mrs. TAUSCHER, Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. H.R. 3193: Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. North Carolina, and Mr. KLINE of Minnesota. ROSS, Mr. MOORE of Kansas, Mr. ORTIZ, Mr.

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SNYDER, Mr. EDWARDS, Mr. BOREN, Mr. H. Res. 658: Mr. KANJORSKI and Mr. WALZ of OFFERED BY MR. GEORGE MILLER OF ENGEL, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Ms. Minnesota. CALIFORNIA HERSETH SANDLIN, Mr. FRANK of Massachu- H. Res. 661: Ms. WATSON, Mrs. JONES of The amendment to be offered by Rep- setts, Mr. POMEROY, Mr. HARE, Mr. HIGGINS, Ohio, and Ms. CARSON. resentative Miller or a designee to H.R. 2693, and Mr. COURTNEY. H. Res. 668: Mr. BOOZMAN, Mr. WATT, Mr. the Popcorn Workers Lung Disease Preven- H. Res. 635: Mr. WU, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. NORTON, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, tion Act, does not contain any congressional ´ DELAHUNT, Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of Cali- Mr. CLEAVER, and Mr. TOWNS. earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited fornia, and Mr. HINOJOSA. H. Res. 669: Mr. OBEY. tariff benefits as defined in clause 9(d), 9(e), H. Res. 641: Mr. BROUN of Georgia. or 9(f) of Rule XXI. H. Res. 644: Mr. DENT, Mr. ROGERS of f Michigan, Mr. PETRI, and Mr. GERLACH. f H. Res. 647: Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida. CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- H. Res. 651: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. ACKERMAN, ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- DELETIONS OF SPONSORS FROM Mr. GALLEGLY, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. WEXLER, ITED TARIFF BENEFITS PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. MCCAUL of Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors Texas, Mr. HINOJOSA, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. ROTH- were deleted from public bills and reso- MAN, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. statements on congressional earmarks, HONDA, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. limited tax benefits, or limited tariff lutions as follows: FALEOMAVAEGA, and Mr. BUTTERFIELD. benefits were submitted as follows: H.R. 661: Mr. TERRY.

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Vol. 153 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2007 No. 142 Senate The Senate met at 2 p.m. and was U.S. SENATE, Mr. President, I have to comment on called to order by the Honorable JIM PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, this remarkable piece of legislative WEBB, a Senator from the State of Vir- Washington, DC, September 24, 2007. work. Senator BOXER and Senator To the Senate: ginia. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, INHOFE—you could have no two dif- of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby ferent political ideologies than the two PRAYER appoint the Honorable JIM WEBB, a Senator of them. One is the chairman of the The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- from the State of Virginia, to perform the committee, one is the ranking member. fered the following prayer: duties of the Chair. That was reversed—INHOFE was the Let us pray. ROBERT C. BYRD, chairman, BOXER was the ranking President pro tempore. Shepherd of love, as we begin today’s member last year. They worked to- legislative session, we pause to ac- Mr. WEBB thereupon assumed the gether well last year, and they worked knowledge Your sovereignty. You sit chair as Acting President pro tempore. extremely well together this year, as enthroned between the cherubim, so f evidenced by this bill, which I think shower us with gifts from Your bounty. RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY sets a good example for all of us here. Today, lead our lawmakers beside LEADER You do not have to have ideological parity to get things done around here. still waters and replenish their spirits The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- This is a good example of that. with Your power. As they grapple with pore. The majority leader is recog- The vote on the conference report is the challenges of our time, give them a nized. faith that will not shrink when facing expected around 5:45 p.m. today. This formidable obstacles. Lord, provide f could never, ever have been accom- them with wisdom to hear Your voice ORDER OF PROCEDURE plished without these two Senators and the courage to obey Your counsel. Mr. REID. Mr. President, I want Sen- working together. Once the Senate Remind them that success comes not ator BYRD and the minority response to completes action on the conference re- by might or power but by Your spirit. have the full hour. So when Senator port this evening, we will decide what Let Your hand rest on our Nation, MCCONNELL and I finish whatever re- we have to do. We have a lot to do this and lead it to a greatness that glorifies marks we would give, I hope there will week. I am going to spend some time You. Hasten the day when Your king- be unanimous consent that they could with the Republican leader and deter- dom shall reign. both have a full half hour. mine how we are going to accomplish We pray in Your mighty Name. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- what we have to do. Amen. pore. Without objection, it is so or- We have, perhaps, SCHIP, we have a dered. continuing resolution, we have a debt f f limit extension, and we have to finish this bill, which means we probably will SCHEDULE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE not finish this bill this week, but it is Mr. REID. Mr. President, we are something we have to do. So everyone The Honorable JIM WEBB led the going to be in a period of morning busi- should watch closely what is going on, Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: ness until shortly after 3 o’clock, with and we will try to work our way I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the the time equally divided and con- through this. There have been a num- United States of America, and to the Repub- trolled. The majority will control the ber of procedural hurdles to get lic for which it stands, one nation under God, first part, with Senator BYRD taking through. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. our time. The final portion will be con- I yield the floor. trolled by the Republicans. f The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Shortly after 3 p.m., the Senate will pore. The Republican leader is recog- proceed to the conference report to ac- nized. APPOINTMENT OF ACTING company H.R. 1495, the Water Re- f PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE sources Development Act. The debate The PRESIDING OFFICER. The time on that conference report will ex- MAHMUD AHMADI-NEJAD’S clerk will please read a communication tend until quarter to 6 tonight. The UNITED STATES VISIT to the Senate from the President pro majority manager, Senator BOXER, and Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I tempore (Mr. BYRD). Senator INHOFE will be here shortly rise to discuss Iranian President The assistant legislative clerk read after 3 to proceed forward with the de- Mahmud Ahmadi-Nejad’s visit to New the following letter: bate. York. The ostensible purpose of this

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

S11967

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Visions were painted for us opening its gates to this man’s hateful terror, one wonders whether the wreath of a peaceful and prosperous oasis of ideology, Columbia University is allow- was meant to honor the victims of the democracy and stability in the turbu- ing him to take full advantage of a World Trade Center attacks or its per- lent geography of the Middle East, if golden opportunity to spread it and petrators. only—and only if—our gallant soldiers giving it a level of deference it, frank- I support the administration’s ap- stayed for just a little while longer to ly, does not deserve. proach to the Iranian nuclear program. bring the dream to reality. Such a It is one thing for a foreign leader, Active diplomacy and ratcheting up grand vision, of course, produced yet even one as disreputable as Ahmadi- international sanctions are, at this another new Bush administration slo- Nejad, to visit the U.N. and remain point, the best path forward. That said, gan, ‘‘return on success,’’ which fits confined to the grounds of the U.N. As diplomacy is only as effective as the very nicely on a bumper sticker for the a head of state, he is legally entitled to credibility and potential force backing back of the lemon this team of sales- visit the United Nations. It is quite an- it up. The President, as Commander in men is trying to peddle. other to give a man who has referred to Chief, is correct to preserve a broad Like any good used car salesman, the the United States as the ‘‘Great Satan’’ spectrum of policy options in con- President insists that we take him up and who denies the Holocaust a coveted fronting the Iranian threat. on his once-in-a-lifetime good deal, platform from which to speak. Some groups on the left, such as just as he has insisted, each and every Let’s consider for a minute what Iran MoveOn.org, believe we should take time, that he needs a little more time has said and done during his Presi- military options off the table, then ne- for his war in Iraq. If we don’t buy in dency. Iran actively supports militias gotiate. Such an approach might make once again, Iraq will descend into that undermine the rule of law and ex- sense to the zealots on the far left, but chaos, militias will commence with port weapons that are killing our U.S. it will not help us in our efforts to slow ethnic cleansing, terrorists will set up soldiers and marines in Iraq. Iran is ac- Iran’s nuclear program. Why would complexes from which to launch at- tively pursuing a nuclear program that Iran take us seriously if we negotiate tacks on the United States, and Iran or puts it on a path toward possessing nu- with all carrots and no sticks? Why Syria, or both, will develop nuclear clear weapons. Iran is a state sponsor would they take us seriously when weapons and invade Iraq on their way of terror. Iran supports proxies that are their hateful screeds against us and our to Israel. undercutting attempts to bring peace, allies are met with an invitation to Mr. President, I suggest that we stop reconciliation, and democracy to Leb- join polite society’s lecture circuit? and take a little time to consider this anon. Ahmadi-Nejad has called for I will close by saying that I strongly offer, consider what was said and what Israel, one of America’s closest allies, support free speech. Free speech is a was not said. It is long past time to lift to be wiped off the map. Iran supports hallmark of democracy, a right not af- the hood and kick the tires. proxies in Syria and Gaza that are ac- forded by Ahmadi-Nejad to his own President Bush said in his speech tively trying to goad Israel into war people. There is a world of difference that things were going so well in Iraq and undercutting the efforts to facili- between not preventing Ahmadi-Nejad that the extra troops needed for the tate peace between Israel and the Pal- from speaking and handing a megalo- surge could begin returning home, as estinians. Ahmadi-Nejad has denied maniac a megaphone and a stage to use long as conditions continued to im- that the Holocaust ever took place, it. prove. In the only time line that he calling it a myth. He even hosted a I yield the floor. laid out, the President suggested that, convention of Holocaust deniers. subject to his fine print, the number of It is hard to imagine any nation on f U.S. troops in Iraq might be reduced to earth that threatens U.S. interests and RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME 137,000 by July 2008. While that is cer- those of its allies much more than The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- tainly welcome news, it carefully ne- Iran. It is equally hard to imagine any pore. Under the previous order, the glects to mention that this reduction greater American university of genera- leadership time is reserved. would still leave 7,000 more troops in tions past inviting a world leader to its Iraq than were present before the so- campus who supported groups that kill f called ‘‘temporary surge’’ began in U.S. soldiers and marines. Think of the MORNING BUSINESS February 2007. Frankly, that is not irony: Columbia University, home of much of a drawdown, given all the so- the core curriculum that prizes an in- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- called ‘‘progress’’ in Iraq cited by the depth understanding of Western civili- pore. Under the previous order, there President. zation and the free exchange of ideas, will now be a period for the transaction The President said in 2003, ‘‘Mission is bringing to its campus a state spon- of morning business for 60 minutes accomplished.’’ Now the President says sor of terror. A school that rejected the until the hour of 3:10 p.m., with Sen- that in December, it will be time to ROTC in 2005 on the grounds that the ators permitted to speak therein for up ‘‘transition to the next phase of our ‘‘don’t ask, don’t tell’’ policy discrimi- to 10 minutes each, with the time strategy in Iraq.’’ the President said, nated against gays now welcomes a equally divided between the two lead- and I quote, ‘‘As terrorists are de- man whose government reportedly exe- ers or their designees, with the major- feated, civil society takes root, and the cutes them. ity controlling the first half and Sen- Iraqis assume more control over their Whether Mahmud Ahmadi-Nejad ator BYRD recognized for 25 minutes of own security, our mission in Iraq will should be speaking at Columbia should the majority’s time and the Repub- evolve. Over time, our troops will shift not be the subject of a philosophical licans controlling the final portion. from leading operations, to partnering debate. He already rejected that debate The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- with Iraqi forces, and eventually to by leading a regime which has chosen pore. The Senator from West Virginia overwatching those forces.’’ terrorism over reason and open dialog. is recognized. In 2003, over 4 years ago, when U.S. Under Ahmadi-Nejad, the Iranian re- f forces overthrew the regime of Saddam gime trains, funds, and exports terror. Hussein, there was supposed to be a Defense Department sources tell us IRAQ rapid transition to a new civil govern- that explosively formed penetrators, Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, a few days ment in Iraq. In all the years since the the most lethal form of improvised ex- ago, Congress and the American public invasion, civil society has not yet put plosive devices used against our forces were treated to a sales job on Iraq that down strong roots despite our efforts. in Iraq, are being manufactured in would have made any used car sales- By every assessment and every bench- Iran. man proud. We heard the half-truths mark, it is not happening now, either. I was heartened to see some common and rosy visions put forth by authori- The Iraqi central government is no- sense was injected into the Iranian tative diplomats in dark suits and rib- where near achievng reconciliation,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.001 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11969 and equitable arrangements for the ry-picked statistics designed to bolster best way to support our troops is to sharing of oil revenue or holding elec- the President’s pitch for progress. bring them home—home, sweet home— tions are but dim and distant visions. The President and his men also did and the only way to get them home Iraqis have not assumed control over not talk about the price tag of this may be to somehow restrict the funds their own security. Indeed, independent shiny little war sedan. No need to dis- for this disastrous, awful war. We have assessments of Iraq have suggested cuss that before they have hooked us tried this before and the President, the that Iraqi security forces are riddled into writing the check. But the cost of President, vetoed the bill. I am here with sectarian corruption and will not this war should be uppermost in our today to insist that we must try again. be capable of providing security for minds, as the Senate addresses the De- Strings must be attached to this some time to come, if ever. fense authorization bill, and certainly money. This Senator will support no U.S. troops have been ‘‘partnering’’ before the Senate considers yet an- more blank checks for Iraq. with Iraqi troops for years now, and other war funding supplemental appro- On October 11, 2002, I was one of only U.S. troops have been training, equip- priations bill—the largest one ever. 23 Senators who voted against the au- ping and supporting Iraqi forces to the Congress has already appropriated thorization that led to this awful, in- tune of billions of dollars. U.S. troops over $450 billion for the war in Iraq, fernal war. I call on my colleagues, for have been conducting counterterrorism and if Congress approves the Presi- the sake of our soldiers and for the operations, as the President also noted dent’s latest request for supplemental sake of our Nation, to remember that in his speech. So what, pray tell, is new funds, that figure will grow to over $600 half-truths and misleading claims are or different about this strategy? I can billion during fiscal year 2008. That is a what led to this war. We can all recall see nothing by which to judge success price tag with nine zeroes in it, folks. that on February 5, 2003, the President so that our troops may ‘‘return on suc- These direct costs do not cover the sent Colin Powell, both a ribboned and cess.’’ It is just a nice paint job slath- many hidden, indirect costs of this starred general and a respected dip- ered across the same old junk car. war, such as higher Veterans Adminis- lomat, to the United Nations to sell The warranties on this new speech tration costs, more veterans’ disability this war to the UN and to the Nation. and this new sales job expire as soon as payments, the considerable interest on Secretary Powell painted frightening the car is driven off the lot. The only the additional debt, higher oil and gas- visions of anthrax, truck and rail car- timeline offered by President Bush or oline prices, increased security costs mounted mobile weapons laboratories, General Petraeus ran out of time after here at home, and the incalculable and nuclear weapons—none of it was July 2008. The pretty six-colored chart damage done to our image and reputa- accurate. The Nation was led to believe that General Petraeus used to show the tion in the world because of this war. that our troops would be greeted as lib- troop drawdown associated with the The combined direct and indirect costs erators, and that oil money would pay transition had no dates on it past July and obligations of this war will exceed for Iraq’s reconstruction. Now while 2008, though it was pretty clear that $1 trillion by the most conservative es- the half-truths have changed, the U.S. troops would be in Iraq for a very timates. Many economists believe that strategy of misleading the Nation re- long time to come. President Bush ex- the costs are much higher. mains the same. plicitly said that if he has his way, That $600 billion or $1 trillion Iraq may descend further into chaos U.S. troops would be in Iraq long past pricetag also does not begin to cover if U.S. troops leave now, or it may de- his exit from the White House. He bold- the lost opportunity costs—all the scend into chaos whenever they leave. ly asserts that he will leave his stag- ways in which money now spent on As long as the United States keeps the gering foreign policy calamity for Iraq could have been used to make our peace in Iraq, there is no incentive for someone else to clean up. Talk about bridges safer, secure our border, im- Iraqis to maintain the peace on their passing the buck. prove education, or to prepare for and own. After nearly 5 years of this awful, Mr. President, we simply cannot af- rebuild after natural disasters and terrible war, more than 3,800 deaths, ford another slick White House sales weather-related farming failures. That over 27,000 wounded, and no end in job. Too many young men and women money could have been used to develop sight, we must change course. This have died or have been maimed in this safe, clean, alternative energy sources war, this draining, desultory, dreadful horrific war. We owe it to them to take so that the United States would not occupation of Iraq must end. a good hard look at the facts. General have to rely so much on oil from the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Petraeus, in his testimony, suggested Middle East or other volatile regions of pore. The Senator from Connecticut. that because of the ‘‘surge,’’ the num- the world. f ber of Iraqi deaths have decreased, in- Nor does that $600 billion or $1 tril- dicating ‘‘progress.’’ That may or may lion cover the costs of keeping upwards COMMENDING SENATOR BYRD not be true—I do not know—but I do of 130,000 troops in Iraq for the many Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, be- know that General Petraeus carefully additional years the President and his fore I begin my remarks, I must pay did not note that the number of U.S. men suggest will be necessary to tribute to Senator BYRD. We are on dif- deaths in Iraq actually increased dur- achieve their vision of progress and ferent sides of the discussion on the ing the surge period, compared to the success. It boggles the mind to consider Iraq war, but he is an extraordinary same periods in prior years. General the long-term costs of buying this war. public servant who remains as full of Petraeus also did not note that the We all say that we support the not just passion, which is evident, but U.S. military death rate in Iraq, that troops. These brave men and women brainpower at a mature age, shall I is, the average number of deaths per have been given a near impossible task, say, as he was when he was a lot month, also continues to climb from which they have performed with dedi- younger. It is a privilege to serve with prior years. cation, professionalism, courage, and him and to have listened to him. General Petraeus pointed to the de- honor. The Congress has provided ev- f crease in the number of improvised ex- erything the generals have asked for, plosive device, or lED, attacks during and more. The President has taken IRANIAN REVOLUTIONARY GUARD the surge period of June through Au- that support for our men and women in CORPS gust as another sign of progress. It is uniform to imply support and even val- Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, I true that the number of attacks idation of his policy. He wants to keep rise to speak on amendment No. 3017 dropped—as it does every year during the U.S. military tied down in Iraq in- which Senator KYL of Arizona and I the very hottest months of June, July, definitely, trying to bargain for a little have offered. This amendment would and August. But what General more time, a little more time, time designate the Iranian Revolutionary Petraeus did not say is that the num- and time again, never grasping that his Guard Corps as a foreign terrorist orga- ber of U.S. deaths from IEDs increased policy is fatally flawed. History shows nization and thereby subject this dead- during the surge period, compared to the fallacy of thinking that democracy ly, nefarious group to a series of eco- the same period in prior years. That, as can be force-fed at the point of a gun. nomic and diplomatic sanctions that they say, is the rest of the story. That In the fifth year of this misguided, Senator KYL and I think will be felt in is the whole truth, not carefully cher- infernal war, I am convinced that the Iran and that this group, because of its

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.002 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11970 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 dangerous and destabilizing work side Iraq. As Ambassador Crocker tes- sponsible for the deaths of Lebanese, throughout Iraq and the Middle East, tified: Palestinians, Afghanis, and Israelis. deserves. While claiming to support Iraq in its tran- They are attempting to destabilize a This is obviously a week in which the sition, Iran has actively undermined it by series of moderate regimes in the Arab leader of Iran, President Ahmadi- providing lethal capabilities to the enemies world. Nejad, is in the United States of Amer- of the Iraqi state. Last week, Admiral Fallon, the com- ica. A great debate rages about what is The IRGC, Quds Force, is also im- mander of our Central Command, said the appropriate way to greet him? porting terrorists from the Lebanese the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps What sanctions, what platforms should Hezbollah to help build its extremist is supplying anticoalition forces with be given to him? What sanctions should proxies in Iraq. We know this because the same sophisticated explosive de- be discussed? coalition forces, American forces, have vices it is giving to extremists in Iraq. Personally, I feel it was a terrible captured one of the Hezbollah leaders In Admiral Fallon’s words: inside Iraq and recovered documents mistake for Columbia University to in- There is no doubt . . . that agents from vite him to speak because he comes lit- that detail the relationship between Iran are involved in aiding the insurgency. erally with blood on his hands—the the Iranian regime and the extremist groups they are sponsoring who are The fact is, it is Iraq that today is blood of American soldiers who are the central front of Iran’s efforts to be- being killed today in Iraq by Iraqi ex- killing Americans. General Petraeus said it when he was come the hegemonic power in the Mid- tremists trained by the Iranian Revolu- here: dle East. The Iranian regime knows tionary Guard Corps, the Quds Force, This is not intelligence. This is evidence. Iraq has become the central front in in Iran at bases surrounding Tehran. We also know Iran has been using its our war with Islamist terrorism. It is But I offer this amendment in this where they believe they can begin the spirit: If we are looking for a way to territory to train and organize these extremists, as I said. What is the process of pushing us out of the region meaningfully respond to the presence and seizing control. That is why I do of Ahmadi-Nejad in the United States, source of that? The U.S. military spokesperson in Iraq, BG Kevin not believe a person can be serious I cannot think of anything better than about responding to the threat of Iran adopting this resolution which docu- Bergner, U.S. Army. He has said groups of up to 60 Iraqi militants at a time while calling for our precipitous with- ments exactly the campaign of death drawal from Iraq. and murder of Americans and others have been taken to three camps near Tehran, where they received instruc- Ahmadi-Nejad, a few weeks ago, said: throughout the Middle East that it is tion in the use of mortars, rockets, im- The political power of the occupiers is col- carrying out. provised explosives, and other deadly lapsing rapidly. Regardless of where any individual tools of guerrilla warfare that they By that he means us. Member of this Chamber stands on the then use against our troops in Iraq. war in Iraq and what the best way for- Soon we will see a huge power vacuum in General Bergner also reported this the region. . . .We are prepared to fill that ward on the war in Iraq is, this matter summer the U.S. military has con- gap. of Iran’s deadly role in Iraq and cluded that ‘‘the senior leadership’’ in Asked about that statement, our own throughout the Middle East should Iran is aware of the activities of the Ambassador Crocker said: draw us all together. This is a matter Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps in Ahmadinejad means what he says, and is on which we are not for or against the sponsoring attacks against our soldiers war in Iraq, we are not Democrats or already trying to implement it, to the best in Iraq, and that, in his words, it is of his ability. Republicans, we are Americans stand- ‘‘hard to imagine’’ that the Supreme That is a quote from our Ambassador ing based of the evidence against a Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali force, the Iranian Republican Guard in Baghdad. Khamenei, does not know about them. It is vital to the national security in- Corps, the Quds Force, that has blood The consequences of this Iranian ter- on its hands, and the blood is American terests of the United States that the rorism in Iraq have been immense and Iranian Government not be allowed to blood. terrible for our men and women in uni- General Petraeus, 2 weeks ago, testi- prevail in its war against us and the form and for their families and friends Iraqi people’s hopes for a better future. fied before Congress, and he could not at home. According to LTG Ray have been clearer about the threat we The amendment Senator KYL and I and Odierno, the deputy commander of our others are offering, we believe, is an face from Iran. In his words: forces in Iraq, Iranian-supplied weap- important component of our response It is increasingly apparent to both coali- ons were responsible for a full one- to this threat. tion and Iraqi leaders that Iran, through the third of American combat deaths this First, it will send a clear message use of the Iranian Republican Guard Corps July. That builds on a similar record in both to the fanatical regime in Quds Force, seeks to turn the Shi’a militia preceding months. Let me repeat that. Tehran—not, I believe, representative extremists into a Hezbollah-like force to Up to a third of the deaths of American serve its interests and fight a proxy war of the feelings and hopes of the Iranian soldiers in Iraq in July were caused by against the Iraqi state and coalition forces. people—and it will send a clear mes- sophisticated explosive devices used by General Petraeus’s testimony is the sage to our allies in the region that the people trained in Iran, with those de- United States will not stand idly by latest in a growing dossier of evidence vices supplied by Iran. This means the about Iranian terrorism—call it what Iranians and their agents are killing and allow Iranian-backed terrorists to it is. Ahmadi-Nejad is maybe called our troops. Why are they doing it? Be- kill hundreds of American soldiers. We President; he is the terrorist dictator cause they want us to retreat from will not stand idly by and allow Iran, who, with a small group around him, Iraq. through its proxies and then directly, has seized control of a great Nation, The Iranians understand—sometimes, to dominate Iraq. Iran—a growing dossier of evidence it seems, better than a lot of Ameri- This amendment acknowledges what about Iranian terrorism in Iraq and cans do—that if American power col- our military commanders and top dip- throughout the region that we in this lapses in Iraq, if we retreat and aban- lomats are telling us, which is that re- Chamber have received from our Amer- don our allies and the hopes we share gardless of what we might desire in ican military commanders on the with them for a better future in Iraq Washington, the Government in ground in Iraq, from our top diplomats and throughout the Middle East, our Tehran has made a decision, and they there, and from our own intelligence position throughout the region will be- are carrying it out—to wage a proxy community. come much weaker and Iran’s position war against the United States in Iraq This is not opinion; this is fact. Spe- will become much stronger. and against our allies in the Arab cifically, we have received detailed in- Iranian aggression in Iraq fits world and Israel throughout the region. formation in recent months about how squarely into a larger pattern of re- We must respond. operatives from the Iranian Revolu- gional aggression, leading, they hope, Our amendment states it should be tionary Guard Corps have been train- to regional domination. the policy of the United States to stop ing—have been training—arming, fund- Tehran is also training, funding, and the violent activities and the desta- ing, and even directing extremists in- equipping radical groups that are re- bilizing influence inside Iraq of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.006 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11971 Government of the Islamic Republic of after a couple of rounds is that the Iranians Mr. KYL. Mr. President, first let me Iran, as well as its foreign facilitators were interested simply in the appearance of compliment my colleague from Con- such as Lebanese Hezbollah and the in- discussions, of being seen to be at the table necticut, who is largely responsible for with the U.S. as an arbiter of Iraq’s present digenous Iraqi extremists. and future, rather than actually doing seri- the idea of this amendment and much Our amendment recognizes that ous business. Right now— of the text of it, for his leadership over thwarting Iran’s campaign of terror Ambassador Crocker says— the years in trying to ensure we take must be among the crucial consider- I haven’t seen any signs of earnestness or se- appropriate action against Iran as it ations for any plan for the transition riousness on the Iranian side. confronts America, both with regard to and drawdown of our forces in Iraq. As Far from convincing the Iranian re- its nuclear program development as General Petraeus warned us in his tes- gime to stop its proxy attacks on Iraqi well as, more currently, its activities timony, the threat of Iran may, in the soldiers, the evidence is that these at- against our forces in Iraq. He has been long run, prove an even greater danger tacks have escalated—increased—over truly inspirational, and I appreciate to the stability of Iraq—their hopes for the last month. According to the most that leadership. political reconciliation and self-gov- recent National Intelligence Estimate: The Senator from Connecticut has ernment—than al-Qaida. We cannot ig- Iran has been intensifying aspects of its le- well laid out the case for this sense-of- nore Iran. thal support— the-Senate amendment that the U.S. For that reason, the amendment Sen- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Government should designate specifi- ator KYL and I are offering calls on the pore. The Senator’s time has expired. cally the Islamic Revolutionary Guard State Department to designate the Ira- Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, I as a foreign terrorist organization and nian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a wonder if I might ask unanimous con- include it on the list of Specially Des- foreign terrorist organization and place sent for 3 additional minutes. ignated Global Terrorists. In addition, the IRGC on the list of Specially Des- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- this sense-of-the-Senate amendment ignated Global Terrorists. This is no pore. Without objection, it is so or- urges the use of our diplomatic and small organization. I have seen esti- dered. economic tools to pressure the Iranian mates to say it is as large as 150,000 or Mr. LIEBERMAN. The war Iran is regime not only to abandon its nuclear 180,000. They have ground troops. They fighting against American troops and program but also to stop the use of its have air capability. They even have our allies in Iraq is an undeclared war, surrogates against our forces in Iraq. naval assets. They have businesses but it is, nonetheless, a real war in There have been only two questions which are doing business with other which real Americans and Iraqis are raised about this amendment. I am businesses throughout the region and being murdered by Iranian agents. We hoping and expecting that it will re- the world. cannot close our eyes to that out- ceive very strong bipartisan support This is the organization that the evi- rageous reality. This amendment ex- tomorrow, assuming we are able to dence, presented to us by the American poses that behavior and demands jus- vote on it tomorrow. The only two military intelligence communities, tice. questions were, first of all, Can this be tells us is responsible for the murder of As we speak, the President of Iran is read in any way as an authorization of American soldiers in Iraq. in the United States. There is no better military action against Iran? I will as- They are launching terrorist attacks time than that for us to stand to- sure my colleagues that is absolutely through their agents against our gether, united as Americans, regardless not our intention—in fact, quite the troops; therefore, they should be treat- of our position on Iraq or our party af- opposite. This is intended to obviate ed as terrorists. They must begin to filiation, and send a crystal clear mes- the necessity for such military con- sage to Mahmud Ahmadi-Nejad and the suffer the economic and diplomatic duct. Nobody wants to have to engage fanatical terrorists and tyrants who punishments that come with being des- in military action against Iran di- now run the great country of Iran and ignated as a foreign terrorist organiza- rectly, but what we would like to do is oppress its people that their campaign tion. get them to stop killing our troops. of terror against our troops in Iraq Of course, everyone in this Chamber One way to do that is to put economic must end and we will stand united as pressure on the organization that is would prefer that we find a way to con- Americans against it. Ahmadi-Nejad doing the killing, and that is what this vince the Iranian regime to stop these should not be given any American plat- amendment would ask the administra- attacks against our soldiers, Iraqi sol- form to speak from until he acts to diers, and civilians through negotia- tion to do. stop his government’s killing of Ameri- Secondly, there is the question of tion, but reality requires that we rec- cans. They have been shouting for al- whether the Islamic Revolutionary ognize that we have tried to use the most three decades ‘‘death to Amer- Guard is the appropriate entity to list tools of diplomacy with Iran, Mahmud ica.’’ He leads those chants of tens of on the Specially Designated Global Ahmadi-Nejad’s government, and it has thousands in Iran today. But they have Terrorists, and the answer to that is produced nothing. done more than shout; they have acted Since May, Ambassador Crocker, our to bring that death to Americans in clearly yes. As I will point out in a mo- Ambassador, has met three times with the marine barracks in Beirut, Khobar ment, we have incontrovertible evi- his Iranian counterparts in Baghdad— Towers in Saudi Arabia, and today in dence that this is the group, as Senator the highest level official meetings be- Iraq. LIEBERMAN pointed out, that is causing tween American and Iranian represent- Giving this evil and fanatical man a the trouble. atives in decades—and what have these platform at a great American univer- Some have said: Well, we should just talks produced? These talks, at which sity is an insult to the hundreds of designate the Quds Force of the Islamic our Ambassador has presented the Ira- Americans whose blood he and his ex- Revolutionary Guard as the terrorist nians with hard evidence that we know tremist allies in Iran have on their entity. That is like saying the Mafia the IRGC, the Iranian Revolutionary hands. He deserves no audience, no re- isn’t really responsible for what the Guard Corps, is training Iraqi extrem- spect, no opportunity to explain away Mafia does; it is only their hit men. ists who are coming back into Iraq and his hateful words and murderous ac- The Quds Force is the group of hit men killing American soldiers—what has tions. He and the ruling clique in Iran for this entity. This entity is clearly that evidence produced? Nothing. deserve the punishment, and more, this the overall entity responsible for this Nothing at all. In fact, there is some amendment Senator KYL and I are in- action, and it is the entity that en- evidence that the Iranian activity is troducing would impose on them as the gages in the economic activity which growing. terrorists they are. supplies the financial resources to the In Ambassador Crocker’s own words I urge my colleagues to support the Quds Force. So it would not be ade- as he testified before Congress: amendment. quate, obviously, just to designate the I laid out the concerns we have over Ira- I thank the Chair, and I yield the Quds Force, which is an arm of the nian activity that was damaging to Iraq’s se- floor. Revolutionary Guard, as the terrorist curity, but found no readiness on the Iranian The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- entity. side at all to engage seriously on these pore. The Senator from Arizona is rec- What evidence do we actually have issues. The impression I came away with ognized. that this is the entity of the Iranian

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.007 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11972 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 Government that is doing all the dirty or depressive—to see was to see the This is all IRGC. This is the entity work? Well, there are many public biggest, heaviest tank in the world, an which would be declared the terrorist statements, and I will quote from some Abrams tank, blown apart by these group under our amendment. of them. Senator LIEBERMAN quoted things as if it were a stick of dynamite Ray Takehy, of the Council on For- some of them. There is also other infor- in a tin can. The force and the destruc- eign Relations, recently said this—I am mation, as one might imagine, and my tive capability was almost beyond be- speaking of the IRGC: colleagues should be encouraged to lief. We saw examples of that in Gen- They are heavily involved in everything consult with terrorist agencies if they eral Odierno’s office—a canister about from pharmaceuticals to telecommuni- have any questions about the specific this big with a concave shape in the cations and pipelines—even the new Imam involvement of the Islamic Revolu- middle that he said is the shaped Khomeini Airport and a great deal of smug- tionary Guard. But it is clear that this charge that explodes up into the tank gling. is the entity on which we should be fo- or the humvee or whatever the mili- I am going on to quote him: cusing. tary vehicle is and devastates it. In Many of the front companies engaged in Senator LIEBERMAN quoted one of any event, they have no doubt whatso- procuring nuclear technology are owned and General Petraeus’s statements in his ever that this equipment which is kill- run by the Revolutionary Guards. They’re testimony before the Committee on ing American troops is coming from developing along the lines of the Chinese Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Iran. military, which is involved in many business Armed Services on September 10 that enterprises. It’s a huge business conglomera- The Department of Defense report to tion. it is apparent Iran, through the use of Congress entitled ‘‘Measuring Stability the Iranian Republican Guard Corps— and Security in Iraq’’ that was just re- This makes the point Senator Quds Force—is causing this proxy war. leased on September 18 of this year LIEBERMAN made before—that this Rev- Here is something else General states: olutionary Guard Corps is deeply in- volved in economic activity. They rely Petraeus also recently stated: Most of the explosives and ammunition We know that it goes as high as used by these groups are provided by the Ira- on financing for a lot of their activity. Suleimani— nian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps— It is this vulnerability which causes us And his full name is BG Qassem Quds Force. For the period of June through to believe that if they are listed as a Suleimani— the end of August, the Explosively Formed state-sponsored terrorist group, we Penetrator events— who is the head of the Quds Force of the Ira- can, through the use of the sanctions nian Republican Guards Corps. That is quite The equipment to which I just re- that are available to us, inhibit and high level. We believe that he works directly ferred— impede and ultimately stop their activ- for the supreme leader of the country. are projected to rise by 39 percent over the ity. There is a specific reference to the period of March through May. The Revolutionary Guard Corps plays IRGC. There is a very interesting story in a key role in the military industries in In addition, Brigadier General Time magazine, a recent issue, quoting Iran. According to Anthony Bergner, who is a spokesman for the a former CIA explosive expert who still Cordesman, who is a distinguished ex- Multi-National Force-Iraq, recently works in Iraq as saying that these ex- pert in this area and who is currently talked about the Quds Force operation plosively formed projectiles we are with the Center for Strategic and in three camps near Teheran, and he finding in Iran, that: International Studies, they have been said: The Iranians are making them. End of involved in the attempted acquisition The Quds Force, along with Hezbollah in- story. of nuclear weapons and surface-to-sur- structors, train approximately 20 to 60 Iraqis His argument is that only a state is face missiles, among other things. at a time, sending them back to Iraq orga- capable of manufacturing these EFPs. Interestingly, also, the unanimously nized into these special groups. They are In other words, these are manufactured passed U.N. Security Council resolu- being taught how to use Explosively Formed tions sanctioning Iran have listed sev- Penetrators, mortars, rockets, as well as in- by people officially connected with the telligence, sniper and killing operations. In government. They have access to the eral IRGC entities as being involved in addition to training, the Quds Force also equipment and material and tech- Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile ac- supplies the special groups with weapons and nology to make them. It is a com- tivities. funding of 750,000 to 3 million U.S. dollars a plicated process that is involved in the Finally, the UNSCR resolutions list month. making of the weapons I described. high-ranking IRGC personnel for their Now, Senator LIEBERMAN also re- Incidentally, this same individual is involvement in these programs, includ- ferred to General Odierno. When I was convinced that the IRGC is helping ing the deputy commander of the in Iraq last, I was ushered into General Iraqi Shia militias sight in their mor- IRGC, the chief of the IRGC joint staff, Odierno’s office to have a very candid tars on the Green Zone, helping them the commanders of IRGC ground discussion with him, and what an im- to make sure they actually land on the forces, the commander of the IRGC pressive military officer he is. He said: Green Zone: Navy, the commander of the Basij Re- Come look at what I have on the table The way they’re dropping them in, in neat sistance Force, the commander of the here, and he proceeded to show us a grids, tells me all I need to know that the Quds Force, and the Deputy Interior great deal of military hardware and de- Shi’a are getting help. And there’s no doubt Minister for Security Affairs, who is scribed to us what it was. Essentially, it’s Iranian, the Islamic Revolutionary also an IRGC officer. it was all of the things—examples of Guard Corps. I note that these resolutions, 1737 and many of the things they had found sup- The investigations into these par- 1747, which were immediately imple- plied by Iran, the weaponry that is ticular attacks, incidentally, were also mented by our European partners, have killing American troops. On one, he discussed in an August 2005 Time re- not yet been fully implemented by our said: Here, look at this. He said: You port about an Iranian operative who own Treasury Department. probably can’t read Farsi, but this headed a network of insurgents cre- I cite all of this evidence and these says, ‘‘Made in Iran.’’ Well, I accept his ated, again, by the Islamic Revolu- quotations to simply make the point statement of what the Farsi says: tionary Guard Corps and that they that there is absolutely no doubt that ‘‘Made in Iran.’’ began introducing these EFPs into the it is the IRGC that is involved in these He also showed us the earth country at the beginning of that year. activities against our American forces penetrators. Before we went to Iraq, we Abu Mustafa al-Sheibani, an Iranian and is responsible for their deaths in were in Kuwait at the base from which operative who headed a network of in- Iraq. It is the IRGC that needs to be a lot of our equipment has come back surgents created by the Islamic Revo- named to the Specially Designated out of Iraq for repair or disposition, lutionary Guard Corps, introduced the Global Terrorist list. I misspoke before and I say ‘‘disposition’’ because some EFPs into the country in early 2007. and said the state-sponsored list. I of it has been so devastated by the ex- U.S. military sources claimed to have meant the Specially Designated Global plosion of these weapons smuggled in captured EFPs that displayed the hall- Terrorist list. from Iran that there is nothing much marks of Iranian-manufactured weap- By being so listed, we can employ our left of them. What was so impressive— onry. financial and immigration sanctions,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.009 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11973 which could include them potentially Burns included enough Latinos in his ceived political advantage, not recog- blocking assets and even the prosecu- new television series on World War II. nizing that most voters would prefer tion of supporters who would provide This is one more reminder that we work together when Americans are funding to them. It could also involve ‘‘pluribus’’ comes easy, but ‘‘unum’’ is fighting and dying. refusal of visas and deportations of hard. Both sides deserve an ‘‘incomplete’’ members. It would allow us to block It would be a lot easier if ‘‘e pluribus on their report cards. the assets—in the United States—of unum,’’ the national motto displayed A unified country would speak with any foreign company doing business above the Presiding Officer’s desk in one voice on where we go from here in with them, in effect, cutting them out the Chamber, were reversed and be- Iraq because our troops deserve to hear of American markets. came ‘‘many from one’’ instead of ‘‘one it; because the enemy needs to hear it; Any lesser sanctions, such as focus- from many.’’ because one political party does not go ing on the Quds Force, would not in Ken Burns’s epic series on ‘‘The War’’ to war, our country does; and, finally, any way solve the problem. That is like began last night on public television. It because the Senate looks downright ri- the hit men for the Mafia; you have to promises to stick in our collective diculous lecturing Baghdad about being get to the Mafia. memory as only a few television events in a political stalemate when we can- We cannot settle for symbolism. This have—for example, the Roots series, not get out of one ourselves. is serious. As I said, finally—and this is Burns’ own Civil War series, and Super We still have an opportunity to speak my last point—our resolution should Bowls. with one voice on Iraq. Seventy-eight not be read as an authorization for the In fact, our country is so splintered of us in the House of Representatives use of force. I think we might even be these days and so enthralled with our and the Senate—35 Democrats and 43 changing a couple words in it to make diversity that not very much becomes Republicans—have cosponsored legisla- that crystal clear. That was not our in- collective memory, as did, for example, tion making the bipartisan Iraq Study tention. To the extent that anybody McGuffey’s Reader in the 19th century, Group recommendations the policy of might try to use that as an excuse for or the three network newscasts in the our Government. It is a consensus most not supporting it, you will not have mid-20th century. Members, I believe, agree with. It is This diminution of our common core that excuse. We took out a couple of sitting there staring us in the face, of beliefs and experiences is America’s waiting for us to adopt it and the phrases that were pointed out as poten- fundamental challenge because forging President to sign it. tially offering that degree of support. unity from our magnificent diversity is At West Point a few weeks ago, 30 ca- This is not such an authorization for America’s greatest achievement and dets told Ken Burns, after they had the use of military action. This is de- has created our capacity for other seen some of his World War II series, signed to prevent that. So if your con- achievements. that they had watched his Civil War se- cern is that we might ultimately be At the Library of Congress some ries with their parents and had decided forced—or some people might believe weeks ago, reflecting on his 6 years of then to attend West Point. We can only we might be forced—to take action work on this television series, Ken hope that Burns’ new series can have as against Iran, and you want to void that Burns said Americans were more much impact and remind us of that result, this kind of economic sanction united during World War II and its time—World War II and its aftermath— is within our power as Americans. We aftermath than at any other time. It when Americans pulled together, and don’t have to rely upon anybody else in was no coincidence that during this era remind us that today we could use a the world to do it; we can do that. We the ‘‘greatest generation’’ also accom- little less pluribus and a little more know it can hurt them, and it goes to plished the most: Welcoming new citi- unum. the entity causing harm to our forces zens based upon beliefs instead of race, Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- and, therefore, we believe it is an ap- building overwhelming military power sent to have printed in the RECORD the propriate action for the administration and the best universities, and pro- names of the 78 cosponsors of the Iraq to take. ducing nearly one-third of the world’s Study Group recommendations, on S. This would put the Senate on record wealth for 5 percent of the world’s peo- 1545 in the Senate and H.R. 2574 in the as urging the administration to take ple. House. In the Senate, there are nine this action as soon as possible, so we Quoting the late Arthur Schles- Democrats and eight Republicans can end the actions of the IRGC. inger’s book, ‘‘The Disuniting of Amer- among the cosponsors. I compliment my colleague from ica,’’ Ken Burns said America today There being no objection, the mate- Connecticut again for his leadership could use ‘‘a little less pluribus and a rial was ordered to be printed in the and sponsorship of the resolution. I little more unum.’’ RECORD, as follows: hope tomorrow we will vote on it and Following World War II, liberals such THE IRAQ STUDY GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS our colleagues will be supportive of it. as Schlesinger, Albert Shanker, and IMPLEMENTATION ACT The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Hubert Humphrey were vigorous apos- COSPONSORS OF S. 1545 pore. The Senator from Tennessee is tles of America’s common purpose. Democrats: Ken Salazar (D–CO), Mark recognized. Their Fourth of July speeches were as Pryor (D–AR), Robert Casey (D–PA), Blanche Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I effusive as anybody’s. Lincoln (D–AR), (D–FL), Mary ask unanimous consent to be added as But today, the left disdains, and the Landrieu (D–LA), Claire McCaskill (D–MO), a cosponsor to the legislation offered right seems to have forgotten the im- Kent Conrad (D–ND), and Tom Carper (D– by the Senator from Connecticut and portance of unum, which means we are DE). the Senator from Arizona. abandoning our greatest achievement. Republicans: Lamar Alexander (R–TN), We see this in our work in the Sen- Bob Bennett (R–UT), Judd Gregg (R–NH), The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- John Sununu (R–NH), Susan Collins (R–ME), pore. Without objection, it is so or- ate. There is no constituency for con- Pete Domenici (R–NM), Arlen Specter (R– dered. sensus, only for division, and many of PA), and Norm Coleman (R–MN). Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I those who work hardest for consensus COSPONSORS OF H.R. 2574 compliment them for their leadership are retiring or near the end of their ca- Democrats: Mark Udall (D–CO), Jason on this important issue. reers here. Altmire (D–PA), Leonard Boswell (D–IA), I ask unanimous consent that the de- A good example is the debate on Iraq, Rick Boucher (D–VA), Nancy Boyda (D–KS), bate time for the energy and resources a war that, unlike World War II, di- Robert Brady (D–PA), Henry Cuellar (D–TX), conference report be preserved. vides us instead of unites us. The Presi- Danny Davis (D–IL), Lincoln Davis (D–TN), The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- dent is conducting the war the way he John Dingell (D–MI), Charles Gonzalez (D– pore. Without objection, it is so or- wants to conduct the war, not recog- TX), Jane Harman (D–CA), Baron Hill (D– nizing that persuading at least half the IN), Steve Israel (D–NY), Daniel Lipinski (D– dered. IL), (D–FL), Jim Matheson (D– f people he is right is the only way he UT), Dennis Moore (D–KS), James Moran (D– can sustain a long-term U.S. presence FORGING UNITY VA), Donald Payne (D–NJ), Collin Peterson in Iraq. (D–MN), Mike Ross (D–AR), Bobby Rush (D– Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, a The Democratic majority, on the IL), John Salazar (D–CO), Heath Shuler (D– lot is being said about whether Ken other hand, is working hard for a per- NC), and David Wu (D–OR).

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.010 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11974 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 Republicans: Frank Wolf (R–VA), Mary that is very important, which is build- Ms. LANDRIEU. Yes. Bono (R–CA), Michael Castle (R–DE), John ing and rebuilding the water infra- Mrs. BOXER. I yield 10 minutes of Abney Culberson (R–TX), Tom Davis (R–VA), structure of our Nation. Today is a day my time to Senator LANDRIEU. I wish Charles Dent (R–PA), David Dreier (R–CA), to say before she begins, she has been a Vernon Ehlers (R–MI), Jo Ann Emerson (R– that is 7 years in the making. MO), Phil English (R–PA), Jeff Fortenberry I wish to start off by thanking my mover behind this bill. She has worked (R–NE), Luis Fortun˜ o (R–PR), Jim Gerlach committee, all of the Members on my her heart out to get this bill to the (R–PA), Wayne Gilchrest (R–MD), Dean Hell- side of the aisle, and Senator INHOFE, floor and, as a result of her working, of er (R–NV), David Hobson (R–OH), Peter our ranking member, and all his col- course, along with her colleague, Sen- Hoekstra (R–MI), Walter Jones (R–NC), Jack leagues on the Republican side of the ator VITTER, who is on the committee, Kingston (R–GA), Mark Kirk (R–IL), Randy aisle. This is an unusual day. This is a our committee came to Louisiana and Kuhl (R–NY), Michael McCaul (R–TX), Sue day where we come forward united on a held a very unique hearing. We had Wilkins Myrick (R–NC), Jim Ramstad (R– MN), Ralph Regula (R–OH), David Reichert bill that will authorize the projects and many colleagues—I see Senator CARDIN (R–WA), Christopher Shays (R–CT), Chris- policies of the Civil Works Program of is on the floor. He was there. We had a topher Smith (R–NJ), Patrick Tiberi (R–OH), the Army Corps of Engineers. I am so very good turnout, and Senator Fred Upton (R–MI), James Walsh (R–NY), pleased we will vote today on final pas- LANDRIEU was eloquent. She has been Zach Wamp (R–TN), Ed Whitfield (R–KY), sage of that bill, and we will send it to eloquent on the floor of the Senate in Roger Wicker (R–MS), and Don Young (R– the President. the past I look forward to hearing her AK). I hope President Bush will reconsider remarks. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- his veto threat of this bill. I think col- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- pore. The Senator from California is leagues will speak to how urgent this pore. The Senator from Louisiana is recognized. bill is. Imagine not having a water re- recognized. Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, could sources bill for 7 long years. That is Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I the Chair tell me what the order is this too long to wait. If colleagues are con- thank the Senator from California and morning. cerned about the size of the bill—truly, all of my colleagues on this particular f if we had gone back the way we did it, committee who have worked so hard. CONCLUSION OF MORNING every 2 years, it would be about the The ranking member, Senator INHOFE BUSINESS size that this bill is. As Senator INHOFE from Oklahoma, has also worked hard. will say when he gets here—and, as you But I have to say to this chairwoman The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- know, he and I don’t agree on many en- who took the chairmanship of this pore. Morning business is closed. vironmental matters, but on public committee and said 7 years is enough f works matters we do agree—this is the time to wait, it is too long for the peo- WATER RESOURCES DEVELOP- first step in a long process—the author- ple of Louisiana, for California, or MENT ACT OF 2007—CONFERENCE izing step—and then comes the appro- Florida, or Maryland—my good col- REPORT priations. league from Maryland, Senator CARDIN, The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- So every one of these projects that who serves on this committee has been pore. Under the previous order, the has gone through local governments all so forceful—she said: I am coming to Senate will proceed to the consider- over this country—remember, for every Louisiana. I want to see it for myself, ation of the conference report to ac- one of these projects, there is a local particularly after Hurricanes Katrina company H.R. 1495, which the clerk match. These are projects that came and Rita devastated our coast. As the chairwoman knows, we lost will report. from the bottom up, from our people The legislative clerk read as follows: who were saying to us we need help 267 square miles of land in south Lou- The committee of conference on the dis- with flood control, with economic de- isiana because of the storm and the agreeing votes of the two Houses on the velopment, with dredging and we need devastation of the tides, the surges, amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. help with wetlands restoration and in a and the flooding. That is more than the 1495), to provide for the conservation and de- number of areas involving the move- whole District of Columbia, more than velopment of water and related resources, to ment of water; and this country two and a half times the size of the 100 authorize the Secretary of the Army to con- learned it when we watched after Hur- square miles that represent the Dis- struct various projects for improvements to ricanes Rita and Katrina. trict of Columbia. This is a huge ex- rivers and harbors of the United States, and If we didn’t know it then, we cer- panse of land that was lost. for other purposes, having met, have agreed This Senator said enough. We have to recommend and do recommend that the tainly know it now. So I say to this House recede from its disagreement to the President, this bill is in line, in terms been waiting too long. It has been 7 amendment of the Senate and agree to the of the pricetag, with what we would long years. Today with this conference same with an amendment, signed by all con- have had if we had done this bill every report vote that is going to take place ferees on the part of both Houses. 2 years. There is huge support for this in about 2 hours, that wait will come to (The conference report is printed in bill. The votes in the House and the an end. The last step Congress can take the proceedings of the House in the Senate are enormous, very one-sided. to send this bill off will have been RECORD of July 31, 2007) So I hope, Mr. President, if you are taken. The conference report, hope- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- listening or people in your office are fully, will be approved by a vast major- pore. The Senator from California is listening, this is a respectful request to ity of Senators on both sides of the recognized. please join with us. We don’t have to aisle. It would not have happened with- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I am fight over every single thing. When it out Senator BOXER’s leadership. I am, very pleased to bring to the floor today comes to the economy, the quality of indeed, so grateful on behalf of the peo- the conference report on H.R. 1495, the life of our people, we should be united. ple I represent in Louisiana. Water Resources Development Act of The House vote on this conference re- This is a small map, but it shows my 2007. I think I can pick up on some- port was 381 to 40. We are hoping we colleagues the vastness of the land we thing Senator ALEXANDER said about will vote in that same fashion in the are trying to protect and preserve, this how divided we are in this country over Senate. great wetlands, which is the green area this Iraq war. That is very clear. No Mr. President, how much time do I shown on this chart. The Mississippi one understands more than our Sen- have, since I am Senator REID’s des- River comes down, of course, through ator who is sitting in the chair and pre- ignee? the mouth of the Mississippi River. siding today how we are divided. This The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- This is the Sabine River that divides is a different story, so we will take a pore. Each of the managers has 671⁄2 Louisiana from Texas and the Pearl little break out of our discussions minutes. The Senator has used 31⁄2 min- River that serves as a boundary be- about Iraq, and we will continue to utes. tween Mississippi and Louisiana. work for bipartisanship in bringing Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, will Sen- From east Texas, all of Louisiana, this war to an honorable close. ator LANDRIEU be amenable to taking and for west Mississippi, this is an ex- At this time, we take a little break 10 minutes at this time, and I will re- tremely important bill for our coastal from that and turn toward something serve time later for her in the debate? regions. It is going to provide historic

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.005 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11975 and first-time funding for a com- It is also very scary for Florida, Vir- Mr. VITTER. Mr. President, I also prehensive wetlands restoration, a ginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. rise and join so many colleagues on combination of levees, wetlands res- This is the track of all hurricanes from both sides of the aisle in strong support toration, and freshwater diversion 1955 to 2005. This is what the south- of this Water Resources Development projects that are going to not only pro- eastern part of this country has to Act conference report. Perhaps it is ap- tect the 3.5 million people who live brace itself for every year—year after propriate that we will pass this his- south of the I–10—when people say to year after year. toric legislation through the Senate me, Senator, why do you live there? I According to all reports, these today, September 24, the 2-year anni- don’t know exactly how to answer that storms are getting stronger and strong- versary of Hurricane Rita which dev- question other than to say we have er and more numerous. We have been astated large parts of southeast Texas been there for 300 years. very blessed that we have not had a and southwest Louisiana. I don’t know exactly why the first critical storm this summer. But the Of course, less than a month ago, Au- person—and that was before the Native season is still open until November. gust 29, was the 2-year anniversary of Americans. That was after the Native This yellow track is the track of Hurricane Katrina, also appropriate Americans settled the land. I am Katrina. This blue track is the track of that we are finally moving on this cru- speaking about when Bienville put up a Rita which actually hit 2 years ago cial legislation so near to that anniver- stake along the Mississippi River. I today. I was down in Cameron Parish sary. would say there are any number of rea- on the corner of Louisiana, and east In fact, I would go so far as to say sons, one of which is it was absolutely Texas is still hurting very badly, as that as we still battle to recover from imperative to settle on the mouth of well as our areas, from this storm. It those two devastating storms, as we the river for westward expansion for has not recovered yet. still climb out of that enormous set- the Nation. We couldn’t have had a na- My point is, this bill not only has back in Louisiana, as we still face im- tion without the Mississippi River and projects for inland waterways and navi- portant work to do related to that re- the Louisiana Purchase, of which 19 gation, but it provides vital projects covery in Congress, this conference re- States now are made up from the Lou- for all of the southeastern United port, this WRDA bill, is the single most isiana Purchase. States and for the eastern seaboard to important thing we can pass to help We remember our history. I cannot protect the people, the great indus- the gulf coast with that recovery, par- go into all the reasons, but they most tries, and manufacturing that are rep- ticularly medium and long term. That certainly are there with 300 years of resented through all sorts of navigable is how vital it is to improve hurricane history. There are 3 million people who waterways and ports that service this flood protection. That is how essential live here. We cannot relocate them. It whole Nation. it is to our very lifeblood survival re- would be cost prohibitive. We can only Without this bill, this whole area will covery from the devastating impact of protect them. We have put in smart become significantly more vulnerable Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Of course, as virtually everyone, I am planning and smart zoning. That is and open to storms, erosion, and very frustrated about how long it took what we are doing and have been doing. surges. This is a very dramatic chart us to get to this moment—7 years— The parishes put up money, and the that shows what we are up against. when a WRDA bill is expected to be State, and the Federal Government, I am going to come back later and passed every 2 years. But at least, I and that is what we are doing. show some other charts, but in conclu- will also say, we have done something I only have a few minutes remaining. sion, this is a historic bill for Lou- with that delay in improving the bill, I will speak later. isiana. It is extremely important for particularly to take account of the There is another way to look at the the Nation. For the first time we have needs and the lessons learned coming levee system that is crucial to protect authorized Morganza to the gulf which the people who live in south Louisiana. out of those devastating storms. protects Houma, LA, a city not a lot of I first came to the Senate after the Unlike many States, we do not have people hear about, but it is a very im- election of 2004, January 2005. The first beaches. I have been to the beautiful portant city. It is smaller than Baton committee I was assigned to was the beaches in California, and I want them Rouge, smaller than New Orleans, Environment and Public Works Com- preserved. I have been to some of the smaller than Lafayette, but it is cru- mittee, through which this WRDA bill, most beautiful beaches in Virginia and cial to the energy infrastructure of this of course, passes. That committee North Carolina and throughout the Nation. works on this bill. Even when I first country. We are the only State that We have many small towns in south came to the Senate 3 years ago, this does not have beaches. We only have Louisiana that my colleagues will not bill was about 2 years overdue. So it two: Holly Beach which is 7 miles hear a lot about, but we store oil and has been a long time coming. But we long—it was virtually destroyed in the gas there. We run pipelines through have worked on it, we have improved storm—and Grand Isle, which is 7 miles these towns. People are down there it, it has gone through the committee long. This coastline is thousands of working their hearts out to give us the process, and it has gone through the miles long with only two little beaches. energy security we need. The least we conference process. But we do have wetlands. We do not can do is protect their schools, their I also served on the conference com- have people living on these wetlands. communities, their way of life, and mittee. We finally have a very good, Sometimes there is a little camp here their culture. robust product and, again, we have at or a little community there. But they I thank Senator BOXER for allowing least taken advantage of that time are stuck on the high ridges. They have me to speak. I thank my colleague Sen- lapse to learn the lessons of Hurricanes been living on ridges that can be pro- ator VITTER, who is a member of this Katrina and Rita and to include key tected, and with the right kind of lev- committee. He will be speaking in a positions that Louisiana and the gulf ees and the right kind of comprehen- moment. He has been extremely help- coast need for their recovery and, in- sive system such as is in the Nether- ful, energetic, and forceful in his advo- deed, survival. lands and other places in the world, cacy for many of these projects. We What crucial provisions are included this can be done. It takes commitment, have worked together. I am very in this bill? A 100-year level of hurri- it takes dedication, and it needs a pleased that he has put so much time cane protection. President Bush, in his steady stream of funding. and effort into this bill. famous Jackson Square speech in mid- Mr. President, how many minutes do I see my colleague from Florida, who September 2005, made a clear, firm, and I have remaining? also has made a historic breakthrough historic commitment to that very high The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- on some projects, particularly the Ev- level of hurricane protection. pore. The Senator has 41⁄2 minutes re- erglades. This bill embodies that commitment maining. I yield back the remainder of my and passes it into law. It takes several Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, this time. steps forward toward that 100-year is a fairly dramatic chart I want to The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- level of protection. show people. It is a little scary for me pore. Who yields time? Recently the Corps determined that and, I am sure, the people I represent. The Senator from Louisiana. level of protection doesn’t exist in the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.014 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 greater New Orleans area. We are be- We establish the Louisiana Water Re- tending out from the Saco River, adja- tween 2 and 16 feet vertically deficient sources Council to improve the effi- cent to Camp Ellis Beach. This jetty in terms of our levees throughout the ciency and performance of projects. altered the pattern of currents and greater New Orleans area. This bill That is a very important part of Corps sand and it is the primary cause of the fully authorizes addressing that short- reform. We expedite the process so devastating erosion at Camp Ellis. The fall. that, hopefully, no longer will it take extent of the erosion is truly shocking. The second key component of the an average of 13 years—13 years—for an Some 36 houses have been washed into bill, moving on into the future, is a average Corps project to even get to the sea in the last 100 years. The 1998 greater level of hurricane protection the stage where the first shovel hits shoreline is 400 feet from where the even beyond the 100-year level, what we the ground. shoreline stood in 1908. The houses that in south Louisiana call category 5 pro- This bill contains so many other cru- are now in danger were once six or tection. In prior legislation, some of cial provisions—closing of the MRGO, more houses back from the sea. the supplemental appropriation bills major improvements to the Bonnet In April of this year, a devastating we passed on an emergency basis after Carre diversion alternative, major hur- Patriot’s Day storm hit Maine with the hurricanes, we told the Corps to ricane protection improvements to the heavy winds and a great deal of rain. get to work studying and designing lower Jefferson Parish and Lafourche This terrible storm, the worst natural that higher level of protection. This Parish, and crucial work in the south- disaster to strike Maine since the ice bill further refines that mandate and west part of the State, where Hurri- storm of 1998, caused massive storm directs the Corps in no uncertain terms cane Rita caused devastating damage, surges, astronomically high tides, and to offer specific project recommenda- including deeper access to the Port of inland and coastal flooding. tions toward that fundamentally high- Let me show my colleagues some of Iberia, coupled with greater flood and er, sounder level of protection. the evidence of the devastation that hurricane protection for Vermilion A third crucial component is coastal was caused by this April storm. As you restoration. As my colleague from Lou- Parish, and improved dredging and can see, this is the road that follows isiana has referred to, Louisiana has navigation on the Calcasieu River, and along the waterfront. It was utterly lost enormous amounts of land, having on and on and on. This bill is a lifeline devastated. In another picture I will it vanish into the gulf due to coastal for our continued survival in Lou- show my colleagues, this is what hap- land loss. We have lost more land than isiana. pened to some of the houses that were exists in the entire State of Delaware. As we move forward, I thank all of along the waterfront. As you can see, Right now, as we speak, we lose a foot- the folks who worked so hard to they were completely destroyed as the ball field of land every 38 minutes, and produce this bill, certainly including water took out the foundations and that is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 the leadership of my EPW Committee, caused terrible destruction. That is a weeks a year. It goes on and on and on. the chair, Chairman BOXER, the rank- power pole that has been thrown down This bill begins to address in a very se- ing member, Senator INHOFE, and the by the storm. In yet another example, rious way that national emergency. chair and ranking member of the sub- a house has been absolutely ruined as a This bill authorizes an ambitious committee of jurisdiction, Senators result of this storm. coastal restoration plan. ISAKSON and BAUCUS, and all of their Now, when the jetty was first con- Again, the bill is long overdue, but very devoted staff. As we move on, I structed 100 years ago, we didn’t have we have made use of that delay. When urge all of us to join together to pass the knowledge we do now, and no one I first came to the Senate, the WRDA the bill, and then to either avoid Presi- predicted the terrible impact. The in- bill then under consideration only de- dential veto or, if necessary, hopefully credible force of the ocean during the voted about $400 million to this na- work immediately in a bipartisan fash- storm earlier this year literally washed tional crisis of coastal land loss. It ion to override that veto and ensure out the foundations of the homes. The only authorized one specific project. that this crucial legislation, crucial for street that once ran along the ocean We knew we had to do more. We saw we the very survival of Louisiana, be- front was largely destroyed, leaving had to do more because of the experi- comes law. nothing between the remaining homes ences of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Mr. President, I yield the floor. and the open ocean. Many homeowners and so now we authorize around $4 bil- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I have a in the area were still dealing with lion of this crucial work, with 17 spe- little UC to take care of the people on flooded basements for weeks following cific coastal restoration projects fully the floor right now. the storm. This was a vivid reminder of authorized. I ask unanimous consent that Sen- the terrible impact a powerful storm Corps reform, another crucial provi- ator COLLINS be allowed to speak for up can have on those who live in this vul- sion, is embodied in the bill, although to 5 minutes; Senator NELSON for up to nerable community. I think we do Corps reform right, par- 10 minutes, and Senator BAUCUS for up The sea has advanced such that an- ticularly with regard to Louisiana to 10 minutes. other large storm could wash out the projects. One of the most bitter lessons The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- peninsula altogether and turn Camp of Hurricane Katrina in particular was pore. Does the Senator wish for the Ellis into an island. That, obviously, that the Corps had made serious engi- Members to speak in that order? would be devastating to the people who neering and other mistakes in the past Mrs. BOXER. Yes. And, for now, this live there. which led to the levee breaches and will be it, but I will do a second UC to We know what must be done to pre- devastating flooding throughout the include Senator LANDRIEU for another vent such a calamity. Studies under- New Orleans area. We had to reform 10 at a later time. taken at the direction of the Army the process to make sure that never The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Corps of Engineers indicate that an off- happened again. We had to bring in pore. Without objection, it is so or- shore breakwater and a spur coming off outside engineering and other expertise dered. the jetty are likely to be needed to pro- to integrate with the expertise within The Senator from Maine. tect Camp Ellis from further erosion the Corps to make sure those sorts of Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I thank and the destruction of even more prop- mistakes were never made again. the chair of the committee for yielding erty. The Camp Ellis jetty was built by I drafted, with the help of others, me this time, and I rise today in sup- the Federal Government at a time Corps reform provisions that are in port of the conference report for the when the erosional impacts of shore- this bill, some of them specific to Lou- Water Resources Development Act. line structures were largely unknown. isiana projects. For the first time ever, This legislation authorizes important The jetty has served its important we fully integrate hurricane, coastal, studies and projects to protect and navigational purpose well over the 100- flood protection, and navigation pro- maintain water resources throughout plus years of its existence, but now it grams within Louisiana and we man- our country. is time for the Federal Government to date a specific integration team that I am especially pleased that the con- make good on its obligation to help will help that become reality so that ference report includes $26.9 million for those people who have been harmed by one type of project isn’t done in isola- Camp Ellis, ME. More than 100 years the structure the Federal Government tion. ago, the Army Corps built a jetty ex- built in the first place.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.023 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11977 With the passage of the Water Re- starts way north, just south of Or- Douglas, when she wrote of her great sources Development Act, we will fi- lando. It flows in a meandering stream love of these Florida Everglades, nally have authorized the funds nec- called the Kissimmee River into Lake termed the ‘‘River of Grass.’’ essary to act upon the best available Okeechobee and historically spilled I will conclude with this. Senator science and to fully and finally protect over out of Lake Okeechobee and BOXER and her husband were kind the residents of Camp Ellis. I urge my flowed in a massive sheet flow in this enough to go down to the Everglades colleagues to support the conference direction, southernly and southwest- with me a few weeks ago. It was this report, and again I thank the com- erly, until the hurricanes of the 1920s, incredible sight. As we glided over this mittee for being responsive to the con- in which over 2,000 people were killed, river of grass in an airboat and as the cerns of the people of Maine. drowned, and the whole idea was to Sun began to set and as the shadows Mr. President, I yield the floor. come in and start diking and draining lengthened, as we came out of the river The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- for flood control. But in so doing, they of grass into the Big Cypress Preserve pore. The Senator from Florida. messed up what Mother Nature in- with these stands of cypress trees, with Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. Presi- tended. that little light available right at dent, a commitment takes a lot more About the year 2000, when the com- dusk, it looked as if we were in this than lip service and nice words to re- prehensive Everglades restoration beautiful meadow of grass with the store ecosystems, and particularly eco- project was passed, it was to now ac- tree stands. Suddenly, reality struck systems that have been manipulated by commodate for several different things. when we saw a mother doe and her two mankind and distorted as has happened First of all, the water had been di- fawns—instead of bounding over the with the Florida Everglades. When I verted, so that had to be changed. But hills of the grass, they were jumping talk about commitment, I want to talk the fact is that now 6 million people over the grass out of the water and about Senator BOXER. This lady, in are living here. That wasn’t the case in back into the water, in this incredible only a few months, after waiting for 7 early Florida. And a vast agricultural place, the location of fauna and flora. years, with all other leadership flailing industry had developed on the south The Everglades does not just affect about and not making it happen—this end of the lake. To give the water Florida. It doesn’t just affect the West- ern Hemisphere. Major environmental lady, our chair of the Environment needs to the Everglades and the Ever- sites that are ecologically threatened Committee, has made it happen and it glades National Park and to the 6 mil- affect the climate of planet Earth, our is going to be passed. We are going to lion people and to the agricultural in- home. do it today, and we all hope the Presi- terests—that, put together, is the Com- prehensive Everglades Restoration I am so grateful that we have this dent will not veto it. But with the sep- bill up and that we are going to pass it aration of powers under our constitu- Plan. Ever since that was enacted, we have not had an authorization bill to with huge numbers today. tion, we have a way of enacting law I yield the floor. over a President’s veto, and that is bet- authorize the projects to implement this plan. So I again give kudos to Sen- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ter than a two-thirds vote in both pore. The Senator from Montana. ator BOXER for bringing this up and Houses of Congress to enact it into law Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, I rise making it happen fast. despite the veto of the President. We today to speak in support of the Water What we have, then, is a major hope we don’t have to do that, but if we Resources Development Act of 2007. project in this bill called the Indian do, we will. Then we can set things First, I deeply congratulate the chair River Lagoon. This is the Indian River right and we can get about the restora- of the committee, Senator BOXER. She up here. I happened to grow up, as a worked very hard and on a strong bi- tion. child, on this river. At times, that and I want to tell the Senate about this partisan basis to get this legislation the St. Lucie River flowing into the In- incredible area known as the Ever- where it is, working with Senator dian River Lagoon is like a dead river glades. This is a compendium of sat- INHOFE. I thank him equally. because of the excessive nutrients from ellite imagery over a 4-year period. I also wish to thank Senator ISAKSON, lower Lake Okeechobee flowing to This is at the southern tip of Florida. the ranking member of the sub- Tidewater. The same to the west, down This is Lake Okeechobee, Palm Beach, committee, concerning this legislation. the Caloosahatchee River, down to Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Homestead, And hats off to Senator Jim Jeffords. Fort Myers—excessive nutrients create Senator Jeffords and his staffer, Cath- and the beginning of the Florida Keys. a dead river. This is a road which was constructed in arine Ransom, deserve special thanks I couldn’t believe it. A couple of because for years they have been work- the 1920s, to get from Miami to Naples, years ago, I went out on that river called the Tamiami Trail. This is a ing on this legislation. I wanted first to right there, the St. Lucie River. First thank him for his efforts as well. I road which was constructed to get from of all, there was a bright-green algae know if he were here with us today, he Fort Lauderdale to Naples—Interstate bloom. You know what that means. would be very happy getting this legis- 75—called Alligator Alley. This, of That means algae is sucking up the ox- lation passed. course, was constructed much more re- ygen from the river, and therefore all We westerners have been plagued re- cently—sometime about 25 years ago— the living things that depend on that cently with several years of drought. and was constructed with box culverts river are not going to be there. I didn’t Ranchers and farmers across my State so that there would be proper water see the mullet jumping. I didn’t see the of Montana have watched their liveli- flows. porpoises rolling. I didn’t see Mr. Os- hood dry up before their eyes. The But you can imagine, back in the prey diving into the water to get his West’s battle with drought highlights 1920s they didn’t think about that. dinner. I didn’t see Mr. Eagle sitting the pressing needs to ensure our water When they built the Tamiami Trail, it over in the dead pine tree waiting for resources are used efficiently because in effect created a dike that, as the Mr. Osprey to catch his dinner for him. it does not rain in the West. It may water flowed south out of Okeechobee, It was a dead river. That is one of the rain in Washington, DC, and other in the historical Mother Nature pat- reasons for one of these major projects parts of the country, but it doesn’t rain terns, and would flow in this sheet flow called the Indian River Lagoon, and in the West. to the south into Florida Bay and into that is authorized. Then we have to ap- This conference report provides au- the gulf of Mexico, it was suddenly propriate the money and get it done. thority for the Army Corps of Engi- stopped by this dike, which was the There is another area here called the neers to move forward with long over- roadbed. Picayune Spring. It is a highly endan- due water resources projects. Levees So part of this bill called Modified gered area because of the encroach- are crumbling, people are living in Waters is to correct that, having addi- ment of development and the necessary harm’s way waiting for this legislation. tional flows come underneath and then waterflows. It, also, is addressed as The tragedy in Minnesota highlights eventually to construct a long bridge well as what I talked about, this dike, that need. This conference report au- or bridges here, which will enhance the which is the roadbed, called the thorizes projects that will provide flow of the water. Why enhance the Tamiami Trail. needed flood and storm damage protec- flow of the water? That is what Mother What we have is a comprehensive tion, navigation improvements, and en- Nature intended. The water actually plan for what Marjorie Stoneman vironmental restoration. Clearly, there

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.024 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 is authority here well needed, long anticipated the day the Congress en- The Corps was not given the author- overdue, for rebuilding and restoring acts meaningful reform. ity to determine the scope of the re- the coast of Louisiana, devastated by Unfortunately, today is not that day, view, but in these other respects, it Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. and this is not the reform bill the was given far too much authority, all Several projects are very important country needs. of which will compromise the inde- to my State of Montana: the Yellow- After a decade of Government and pendence of the review that is per- stone River and tributaries recovery independent reports calling for reform- formed. project; the Lower Yellowstone Project ing the Corps and pointing out stun- Second, it terminates the inde- at Intake, MT; the Missouri River and ning flaws in Corps projects and project pendent review provision 7 years after tributaries recovery project; the upper studies, and after the tragic failures of enactment. It is reasonable for Con- basin of the Missouri River project; and New Orleans’ levees during Hurricane gress to continually evaluate how the a riverfront revitalization project in Katrina, the American people deserve program is working, but to presume Missoula. meaningful reforms to ensure the there is not a need for a long-term re- There is also a very important au- projects the Corps builds are safe, ap- view and set a sunset date is irrespon- thorization for the rehabilitation and propriate, environmentally respon- sible. improvement of a very important aging sible, and fiscally sound. The urgency Independent reviews should be per- water project we called the Hi-Line Re- and necessity could not be clearer. manently integrated into the Corp’s gion of Montana, called the St. Mary Unfortunately, the conference report planning process. The burden should be diversion. This system is rusting, it is includes weak reforms. The Senate on the Corps to demonstrate why it cracking, and it is crumbling. If you go twice voted in support of strong reform does not need a congressionally man- out and see it, you are stunned how language, when it passed WRDA bills dated review process, rather than on much this is deteriorating. But 17,000 earlier this year and last Congress. But Congress to wage another battle to ex- Montanans on the Hi-Line depend on the conference report we are about to tend the requirement in 7 years. Third, it allows the Corps to exempt this 90-year-old system for their drink- vote on has been stripped of many im- projects. The Senate provisions estab- ing water. Without St. Mary, lower portant safeguards that would ensure lished mandatory review when clear Milk River would go dry 6 out of every accountability and prevent the Corps triggers are met. However, the con- 10 years, imperiling the water source to from manipulating the process. We ference report gives the Corps fairly thousands of Montana families. have compromised enough over the broad discretion to decide what These projects and their importance years. We can no longer afford a sys- projects get reviewed. It expands the to the communities and the projects tem that favors wasteful projects over House’s loophole allowing the Corps to they serve underlie the need for this the needs of the American people. exempt projects that exceed the man- conference report. We passed it last The bill brought back from con- datory $45 million cost trigger. The year. Let’s get it enacted again this ference is particularly disappointing Corps can exempt Continuing Author- year. because a few months ago, on May 15, ity Program projects, certain rehabili- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Senators REID, BOXER, and I entered tation projects, and, most egregiously, pore. The Senator from Wisconsin is into a colloquy in which we agreed the projects it determines are not con- recognized. Senate Environment and Public Works troversial or only require an Environ- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, before Committee would ensure the strong mental Assessment rather than a full- my friend begins, I wanted to get the Senate reforms would be the minimum blown Environmental Impact State- parliamentary situation, if he will reforms coming out of conference and ment. yield for a minute? enacted into law. That agreement, ap- It is this very decision, whether to do Mr. FEINGOLD. I yield the floor. parently, has counted for little. an EA or an EIS, that is often in need I am particularly troubled by the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- of review. Furthermore, a project’s eco- pore. The Senator from California is changes made to the bill’s independent nomic justification, engineering anal- recognized. review provision during negotiations ysis, and formulation of project alter- Mrs. BOXER. It is my understanding between the House and the Senate. The natives are critical elements that that Senator FEINGOLD has up to 30 Senate version of the bill included a should be looked at for all major minutes to speak on the bill. He and I strong independent review provision, projects, not just those with signifi- discussed it. If he has any added time, which I successfully offered as an cant environmental impact. he has graciously agreed to yield it to amendment to last year’s bill and The conference report also prevents me with the understanding that if he which was again included in this year’s review of most ongoing studies. Al- wants additional time, I will get it WRDA. though the conference report allows back to him later. But I think, if it is Subjecting Corps of Engineers project the Corps to exempt projects from re- necessary for me to make such a re- studies to a review by an independent view, it does not give the Corps equal quest, I ask unanimous consent that panel of experts will help ensure future authority to include projects. The bill whatever time the Senator yields back Corps projects do not waste taxpayer includes restrictive language that pre- be yielded back to me with the under- money or endanger public safety and vents the Corps from reviewing studies standing he will be able to speak again that environmental impacts are avoid- that were initiated more than 2 years if he so chooses. ed or minimized. ago, or that were initiated in the last 2 The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Unfortunately, the independent re- years but already have an ‘‘array of al- pore. Without objection, it is so or- view provision included in the con- ternatives’’ identified, which occurs dered. ference report was significantly weak- early in the process. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ened in several respects. First, it does The Senate language would have al- pore. The Senator from Wisconsin. not ensure independence of the review lowed the Corps to initiate a review for Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, how process. Under the conference report, any project that does not have a draft much time do I have? the supposedly ‘‘independent’’ review is feasibility report. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- not independent. The review process is The conference report also elimi- pore. The Senator from Wisconsin has run by the Corps rather than outside nates the requirement that a review is 30 minutes. the Agency, as required by the Senate mandatory if requested by a Federal Mr. FEINGOLD. If I do not use all bill. agency. The Senate bill would have the time, I will certainly be happy to The Corps Chief of Engineers is given made a project review mandatory if re- yield to the Senator from California. significant authority to decide the tim- quested by a Federal agency with the Mr. President, I will oppose the con- ing of review, the projects to be re- authority to review Corps projects. In- ference report on the Water Resources viewed, and whether to implement a re- stead, the conference report gives the Development Act. For 7 years, I have view panel’s recommendations, and, ap- Corps the authority to reject the re- worked with Senator MCCAIN and many parently, even has the ability to con- quest and requires the Federal agency of our colleagues on essential reforms trol the flow of information received to appeal the decision to the Council of the Corps of Engineers and have long by the review panel. on Environmental Quality.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.026 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11979 The Corps should be required to con- I think the American taxpayers join paddle wheel boats 75 years ago. They duct a review made by the head of an- me in saying this is absolutely irre- were designed to last 50 years. other agency that is charged with re- sponsible and shirks our responsibil- Well, they are 25 years past their de- viewing Corps projects or, at a min- ities as elected officials. sign lifetime. This is a long, much imum, to justify to the Council on En- There is already a $58 billion backlog needed, overdue investment in infra- vironmental Quality why it wants to of construction projects previously au- structure, jobs, trade competitiveness, deny such a request. thorized, and with only $2 billion annu- and environmental protection. The final problem I wish to highlight ally appropriated for project construc- Sixty percent of all grain exports is the conference report does not make tion, this means the Nation’s most move through the bottleneck of obso- sure the Corps is accountable. The con- pressing needs face significant com- lete locks. Some 30 percent of oil is ference report eliminated a key provi- petition for funding and likely delays. shipped by barge, by waterway, a sig- sion in the Senate bill that ensured ac- Furthermore, this bill authorizes a nificant amount of coal, of cement, of countability. Specifically, the provi- significant number of projects and fertilizer. A single medium-sized barge sion would have required that if a studies that are beyond the Corps’ pri- tow carries the same amount of freight project ends up in court, the same mary mission areas. The Corps cannot as 870 trucks. There is a comparison for weight is given to the panel and the be everything to everyone, and Con- railroad, but the railroads are so full Corps’ opinion if the Corps cannot pro- gress does need to discipline itself and they cannot carry any more; they are vide a good example for why it ignored set priorities. at capacity. But it carries something the panel’s recommendations. By drop- I will continue to work with my col- akin to 21⁄2 trainloads. ping this accountability requirement, leagues to institute a system for the conference report allows the Corps prioritizing Corps projects and other These facts speak volumes for the to ignore the panel’s recommendations, critical reforms. We may have an op- cost, pollution, and fuel efficiencies of as the Corps is currently doing with its portunity to pass those reforms sooner river transportation. Throughout this own internal review process. than some had hoped. The administra- long and arduous process to complete a I would love to be able to join my tion has indicated the President will 2-year bill in 7 years, we have been colleagues in claiming this is a ‘‘his- veto this bill, this bloated bill. blessed with strong bipartisan support toric moment.’’ I am pleased that some Rather than overriding a veto, I hope for modernizing the locks. I have al- of the other reforms I fought for are in- the Congress will use that veto as an ready referred to the relationship of cluded in this bill. We have come a opportunity to rethink the flawed our EPW Committee. long way in the last 7 years, as evi- mindset that resulted in this bill and Senator GRASSLEY has been sup- denced by the overwhelming bipartisan in previous WRDA bills. We do not do portive of this from the start. We majority of my colleagues who sup- our constituents favors by spending would not be here today without Sen- ported the Senate’s reforms last year their tax dollars on projects that are ator HARKIN, the occupant of the chair, and again earlier this year. not justified or fully reviewed. We need Senator DURBIN, Senator OBAMA, Sen- But we have not come far enough, reforms to make sure these tax dollars ator MCCASKILL, and others from the and that is truly regrettable. Why are spent in the most important prior- Midwest playing a key role in this be- should the taxpayers of this country ities, not just on members’ pork. coming law. I express my gratitude. have to continue wondering if their I urge my colleagues to oppose the Outside Congress, modernization of dollars are being spent on projects that WRDA conference report. the old bottleneck looks has won the lack merit, hurt the environment or Mr. President, I reserve the remain- untiring support of agriculture, the wa- are not entirely reliable? Is not Con- der of my time. terways community, industry, labor, gress finally willing to put an end to I yield the floor. and community leaders. I am con- the longtime practice of doling out The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. cerned the administration may veto projects to Members regardless of those DURBIN.) The Senator from Missouri. this bill because they say it is too big. projects’ merits? How many more Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I rise Well, if it were a normal 2-year bill, it flawed projects or wasted dollars will it today to congratulate EPW Chair would be big. But this is a 7-year bill; take before we say enough? Boxer and Ranking Member INHOFE for taking into account three cycles which I am pleased the conference report bringing a balanced and much needed we should have and have not yet passed contains some modest reforms, but we bill to the floor. a WRDA bill. So it is big by historic can do much better than that. In fact, Normally this bill is a 2-year author- standards. ization, but there has not been a bill, a we did much better than that when we When we total the three WRDA bills WRDA bill, during this administration. passed the Senate bill not long ago. passed during the 5-year periods of 1996 So I will call it the Water Resources Congress needs to get this right; I to 2000, a 5-year period, the authoriza- Development Act of 2001. think the stakes are too high. tion levels totaled almost the same as Unfortunately, for the reasons I have Now, my State has nearly 1,000 miles this 7-year bill, almost $21 billion. explained, the conference report fails of Missouri and Mississippi River front- to do enough. It contains severely com- age in addition to our lakes. Our com- Now, if there is a veto, I look forward promised language that does not fix munities rely on Corps projects for af- to overriding it on a bipartisan basis as the status quo under which Congress fordable water, transportation, flood soon as action can be scheduled. This is uses the Corps to fund pet projects that protection, energy production, environ- an authorization bill. Without appro- are not justified or adequately re- mental protection, and recreational op- priations, it spends nothing. As Sen- viewed. portunities. ators know, this bill simply adds I wish to also express my concern Nobody knows better than the farm- projects to the list of items eligible for with the cost of the bill which has ers of Missouri and the Midwest how appropriations subject to the binding ballooned to $23 billion, $23 billion important river transportation is to budget limitations faced under the ap- from the $14, $15 billion cost of the serve the world market. This bill for propriations process. House and Senate versions. my constituents means jobs, trade Put another way, this is a license to Nearly $1 billion of the additional competitiveness, reliable and afford- hunt. You still to have hit the bird and cost is for 19 projects that were added able energy, drinking water, and pro- you can’t go over the limit. So all it is during conference, neither the Senate tection from floods, which can ruin is a license to ask for appropriations. nor the House has previously reviewed property and kill people. The backlog of unfunded items often these projects. This is not of minor importance to referred to by opponents of this bill is My colleagues have previously stood those out in the world, in the Midwest, unfunded because many of the projects on the Senate floor and said the cost of who work for a living. I am delighted are not sufficiently high priority with- the bill does not matter because WRDA we are completing our long journey to in tight budgets. Some may be very is merely an authorizing bill and not permit modernization of the Mis- good projects but they do not make the an appropriations bill. We will sort out sissippi River locks. These locks were cut given the limited budget. Does it our priorities later, they say. built during the for make sense to say that bills passed

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:41 Sep 24, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.027 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11980 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 many years ago have to be funded be- many to find a compromise that could again, my thanks, my congratulations, fore we can take a fresh look at prior- serve the diverse needs of a nation that and deep appreciation to the Environ- ities facing our waterway infrastruc- needs water resources to function. ment and Public Works Committee ture and other waterway needs? I don’t Among a very long list, this bill is sup- leadership and the diligent staff who think so. Priorities change. Right now ported by the National Corn Growers have brought us to this point. these items in this bill are the prior- Association, the Carpenters, operating It is time we pass the 2001 WRDA bill. ities that have been thoroughly vetted engineers, laborers, American Farm It may be 6 years late, but it is even by the Corps, by all those who have Bureau Federation, the American Soy- more needed now than it was in 2001. input, and by the Environment and bean Association, and scores of mem- I yield the floor. Public Works Committee in our body bers of the Waterway Counsel from The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who and in the Transportation Infrastruc- coast to coast, communities large and yields time? ture Committee on the other side. I small. The Senator from California. urge my colleagues to support it. Our staffs have been working tire- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, is it a To oppose new authorizations is sim- lessly on this not for days or for weeks fact that I have 34 minutes remaining ply a way to pretend to save money but years. It has been a long process. on my manager’s time? without saving money, while unwisely We have gotten to know them like fam- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- assuming that all currently authorized ily. There is almost some regret in ator is correct. projects are of a higher priority than knowing that our family will be broken Mrs. BOXER. Senator FEINGOLD gra- the newly authorized projects con- up when this bill is signed into law. ciously said he would yield me the re- tained in this bill. In many ways, this But maybe we can get back on schedule mainder of his time with the under- will cost money, and I will talk about and have another WRDA bill in 2 years. standing that if he needed more, I that in a minute. But if there were to The staff has been tremendous. They would give him some of it. So what is be a veto, the unfortunate message for took on tough issues, set up difficult his amount that is remaining? water States and agricultural States in criteria, helped to sort through com- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Twenty the Midwest is that water resources are peting objectives, and they never quit. minutes. not a high priority to this administra- While there were many who worked Mrs. BOXER. I ask unanimous con- tion, despite the expectation of many very hard on this over the years, in- sent that that be done. supporters in 2000, when supporters of cluding Andy Wheeler, Ruth Van Mark, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without waterways in Missouri came out in Angie Giancarlo, Ken Kopocis, Jeff objection, it is so ordered. record numbers to carry the State for Rosato, Tyler Rushford, Jo-Ellen Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, again, in the current President. The previous ad- Darcy, Mike Quiello, and others, I espe- a way I am glad I didn’t have a chance ministration was not supportive and cially thank the bipartisan staff sup- to speak before because there has been this administration is no better. Our port of Let Mon Lee with the com- so much interest in this bill that I concerns started with proposed con- mittee. Let Mon has been working with waited until we had a little quieter struction budget cuts. Then they fired us for all these years. He is truly part time on the floor, although several are Mike Parker, a strong proponent of of our family. We would hate to lose coming. water resources. Then they under- him, but if that is the price for passing Part of our work is making sure that funded flood control and navigation on WRDA, so be it. in coordination with local governments the Missouri River. Now it would be The success of our economy and its and State governments and commu- capped off by vetoing WRDA. I truly people owes a great debt to invest- nities and the American people, we do hope that doesn’t happen. They would ments that were made by those before what we need to do so we can build our get a grade for consistency, except that us. I urge my colleagues to make the economy, so our economy has behind it they say they support aggressive trade investments now that will be providing the infrastructure it needs. What hap- policies. But they say nothing about the benefits for future generations and pens when an infrastructure fails? We the transportation capacity vital to vote in favor of an opportunity and saw that in Minnesota when the bridge move the goods they want to trade, so value for our future. We were reminded collapsed. they say. Bulk commodities can’t be tragically a few weeks ago in Min- I am proud the Environment and faxed or e-mailed or Fed-Ex’d or UPS’d nesota of the need to be vigilant in up- Public Works Committee held a very in the real world to the rest of the grading our infrastructure. When you strong hearing at the behest of Senator world. Again, on our waterways in Mis- see what happened in Minnesota, we KLOBUCHAR, and we are moving forward souri, one medium-size barge tow car- saw a bridge collapse. There was a on a way to ensure that we can fund ries the same freight as 870 trucks with tragic loss of life. There was some dis- those kinds of improvements. We saw cost, pollution, fuel efficiencies, eco- ruption of commerce. But if one of what happens when water infrastruc- nomic and environmental benefits that these locks midway on the river be- ture fails, when we look at what hap- are obvious to all. tween Missouri and Illinois at the bot- pened in Hurricane Katrina. We saw I was interested to read a November tom of the chain fails completely and that the levees we thought were built 2005 article in the Washington Times bailing wire and chewing gum can only to protect against category 5 storms which reported that the President hold back the river so long and they simply didn’t stand up. noted during a press conference with leak not like sieves but by continuous There is no way we can talk our way Panamanian President Torrijos: ‘‘ ... sheets of water, if one of those locks out of the problem we face in America. it’s in our nation’s interest that this were to blow out and fail, the impact The problem we face is we have an canal be modernized.’’ I know the ad- on our economy, on commerce, would aging infrastructure. Whether it is our ministration does not oppose modern- be huge, the impact we almost felt roads or bridges, our highways, or our izing the Social Security-age locks on when Katrina shut off the mouth of the water infrastructure, these need atten- the Mississippi River, built during the Mississippi River in Louisiana. Fortu- tion. That is why today is such an im- Depression for paddle-wheel boats, but nately, they got that undone in a cou- portant day and why I am so proud to they also have not yet even endorsed ple of days. But even papers that don’t stand here, because even though not it. Yet there was a rousing endorse- normally think about water commerce every Member will support this bill, I ment for upgrading the waterways in and agriculture were saying what a would say almost every Member will. Panama. My colleagues and my con- danger this was. A failure of one of Senator FEINGOLD was eloquent and he stituents back home believe our mid- these locks, one of these half-size, out- was disappointed that we didn’t do ev- western exporters deserve as much con- dated, overaged locks could tremen- erything he and Senator MCCAIN asked sideration as Chinese exporters who dously cripple our economy, put our us on Corps reform. I understand that. transit the Panama Canal. I remain rural economies into a significant We are very close friends and col- hopeful the administration will agree. downturn. leagues. The fact is, I see it a little dif- While no two of us would write the I urge our leadership in this body to ferently. We went a very long way. I bill the same way, I am pleased so move quickly for a speedy override know he and I have our differences. much work was done for so long by so vote should a veto materialize. But What I wish to do, rather than take the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.029 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11981 time to engage in an argument, is to ments from both the Senate and House bills, signed by every conferee, Republican, place in the RECORD the program high- ensuring the broadest look at the existing Democratic, Independent, as they may lights of Corps reform initiatives that document and incorporating the most cur- be, in both Chambers. The conference are in this bill. I ask unanimous con- rent and accurate concepts. report has already received an over- Establshes a national policy to maximize sent that this be printed in the sustainable economic development, avoid the whelming vote in the House: 381 in RECORD. unwise use of floodplains and minimize ad- favor; 40 opposed. Imagine what a won- There being no objection, the mate- verse impacts and vulnerabilities in derful message that is that we can rial was ordered to be printed in the floodplains; and protect and restore the func- work together. RECORD, as follows: tions of natural systems and mitigate any I also say for the record that this WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2007 unavoidable impacts. conference report fully complies with CORPS REFORM INITIATIVES—PROGRAM Requires a comprehensive report on U.S. the rules of the Senate as amended by HIGHLIGHTS vulnerabilities and comparative risks related S. 1, the Honest Leadership and Open to flooding. INDEPENDENT REVIEW Government Act of 2007. Under the re- WATERSHED-BASED PLANNING Creates a truly independent review process quirements of new rule XLIV, I certify of projects through a program of mandatory Increases Federal participation in water- that each congressionally directed reviews with reviewers selected by the inde- shed-based planning to eliminate the lack of spending item in the conference report integration of the interconnectedness of pendent National Academy of Sciences. and the name of each Senator who sub- Projects over $45 million (with an expanded projects—a major short-coming of the failure definition to include beach nourishment of the hurricane protection in New Orleans. mitted a request to the committee for projects), controversial projects, and LEVEE SAFETY that item has been identified through a projects where a governor requests a review Creates a National Levee Safety Assess- chart that has been available on the will all be subject to independent review. ment program, in cooperation with the committee Web site at least 48 hours The review applies to project studies plus States, to address the lack of information on prior to the vote on this conference re- environmental impact statements. and assessment of levees. port. So we have been faithful as we The review panels will be able examine all Creates a publicly available database with must be to the new rule XLIV on our aspects of the environmental, economic, and an inventory of levees. ethics, where you can see what every engineering aspects of the proposed project. Requires a Federal inspection and public The review panels will have the oppor- Senator requested and a certification disclosure of all Federally-owned or operated that in fact there is no conflict of in- tunity to receive, evaluate, and comment levees, all Federally constructed but non- upon input from States, local governments, Federally operated levees, and non-Federally terest, no pecuniary interest on the and the public. constructed levees if requested by the owner. part of the Senator or any member of Recommendations of the review panel the immediate family. This is truly a OTHER PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS must be a part of the public project record, bipartisan bill. and any rejection of the recommendations Expedites the process for deauthorizing the must be explained in the record. unconstructed backlog of projects. I am going to make a unanimous con- The costs of the review are Federal and are Creates a Federal responsibility to partici- sent request that at the conclusion of not contingent upon future appropriations. pate in the monitoring of ecosystem restora- my 10 minutes, Senator CARDIN be rec- SAFETY ASSURANCE REVIEWS tion projects to ensure project success. ognized for up to 10 minutes and that Creates a new responsibility to have out- Allows for non-profit entities to partner then Senator WARNER be recognized. side experts review and assist the Corps of with the Corps of Engineers in implementing Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, I be- Engineers in the design and construction of projects, which is especially important on lieve I was on the floor before the Sen- flood damage reduction or hurricane and small-scale environmental restoration ator from Maryland. storm damage reduction projects to improve projects. Clarifies that the cost-sharing reforms en- Mrs. BOXER. Well, the Senator from the performance of these critical, life-saving Maryland has been on the floor all day. projects. acted in 1986 apply to all projects and stud- ies, stopping the Corps of Engineers from Mr. WARNER. Fine. Well, I am not MITIGATION creating waivers and loopholes. trying to run this. Corps projects would have to comply with Expands opportunities for the beneficial Mrs. BOXER. How much time would the same mitigation standards and policies reuse of dredged material for restoration and my colleague wish? established under section 404 of the Federal preservation benefits. Mr. WARNER. I am going to take 2 Water Pollution Control Act as any other en- Ensures the authority of the Corps of Engi- tity. or 3 minutes. neers to participate in ecosystem restoration Mrs. BOXER. Then why don’t we give Corps mitigation plans must provide for projects that include dam removal. the same or greater ecosystem values as you 5 minutes first and then 10 minutes those lost to a water resources project Mrs. BOXER. What everyone will be for Senator CARDIN. through implementation of not less than in- able to read is the independent review Mr. WARNER. Does that accommo- kind mitigation. we now have in place in the bill that is date my colleague? Corps studies must include detailed miti- truly independent, done by the Na- Mrs. BOXER. He is very pleased with gation plans that can be evaluated by the tional Academy of Sciences, which in- public and the Congress, including specific that. cludes safety assurance reviews, miti- How many more minutes do I have on statements on the ability to carry out the gation, planning principles and guide- mitigation plan. my 10 minutes? Eliminates the Senate language that could lines, watershed-based planning, levee The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is have delayed mitigation up to one year. safety, and other program improve- 23 minutes remaining. Establishes requirements for the Corps to ments, including expediting the proc- Mrs. BOXER. So, again, we have conduct monitoring of mitigation implemen- ess for deauthorizing the uncon- complied with the new ethics rules. I tation until ecological success criteria are structed backlog of projects. Rather want to say also, in terms of the Corps met. In evaluating success, the Corps must than get into a big argument, to me it reform matters, there is an environ- consult yearly with applicable Federal and is such a positive day today. State agencies on mitigation status. mental organization, American Rivers, The increased mitigation requirements I see the Senator from Virginia com- and they have written a very impor- apply to all new studies and any other ing to say a few words. tant release that I ask unanimous con- project that must be reevaluated for any rea- This is a very important day. We are sent to have printed in the RECORD. son. struggling in the Senate to work to- There being no objection, the mate- Requires the Corps to develop and imple- gether. The war in Iraq has torn us rial was ordered to be printed in the ment a publicly available mitigation report- apart. It is very hard. But on this mat- RECORD, as follows: ing system. ter of building an infrastructure and American Rivers, August 1, 2007 PLANNING PRINCIPLES AND GUIDELINES making sure it works, we are as one. Requires the Secretary to revise the plan- This conference report has the support WATER BILL BEGINS PROCESS OF MODERNIZING THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS ning Principles and Guidelines for the first of my ranking member, Senator time since 1983. The process must be in con- Washington, DC—In a move that will help INHOFE, the entire Environment and sultation with Federal agencies, and must communities, taxpayers, and the environ- solicit and consider public and expert com- Public Works Committee. It is impor- ment, a House-Senate Conference Committee ments. tant to note that the conference report has produced reforms in a bill that will im- The factors to be included in the revised was signed by every conferee from both prove how the Army Corps of Engineers Principles and Guidelines include the ele- Chambers. The conference report was (Corps) does business. The Water Resources

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.030 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11982 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 Development Act of 2007 (WRDA), H.R. 1495, ing to see that the Corps lives up to the in- as one of the business commercial will begin moving the Corps into the 21st tent of the original authors of this legisla- ports on the east coast, Hampton century. tion and we will continue to fight further re- Roads is a strategic, critical port nec- The Corps is the nation’s primary river forms to ensure public safety and environ- essary for national defense, commerce, management agency and in 2006 accepted re- mental sustainability.’’ sponsibility for faulty floodwall and levee and trade. So this project will also di- Mrs. BOXER. They certainly believe rectly and indirectly serve our national designs that led to the tragic flooding of New we should have gone further with Corps Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. The defense. Corps’ designs were so flawed that levees and reform. That is clear. This project will help position the floodwalls collapsed in the face of a storm But they do say: Hampton Roads region to strengthen they should have withstood. Corps projects The reforms in this bill begin to put the its position as a major east coast port. also destroyed vital coastal wetlands that Corps on track towards becoming a more re- liable and credible agency. The Port of Virginia serves as a gate- could have reduced the Hurricane’s storm way. It is an interesting term; it is a surge, and funneled that surge into the heart This is important. They do say: ‘‘gateway.’’ In other words, things flow of New Orleans. The problems with Corps The gains in the WRDA bill would not have in, things flow out, and not just for the planning highlighted by Katrina affect Corps been possible without the tireless work from projects across the country. lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Commonwealth of Virginia. Almost every State in the Union ships down The WRDA bill will produce critical im- They name some names of Senators. provements to the Corps’ planning process, through this port on some occasions. including requiring an update of the Corps’ Even though, as I say, they would have wanted 100 percent of what Sen- More than 55 percent of the cargo we woefully obsolete planning guidelines that move comes from outside of the bor- dictate how the Corps evaluates specific ator FEINGOLD asked for, they again say: ders of the Commonwealth of Virginia. projects. The bill will also require the Corps That is to say, this project is not just to do a much better job of replacing habitat Congress has taken a first step towards lost to its projects. The Corps now routinely more responsible river management. important for Virginians but for other States and companies that rely on ignores the basic wetlands mitigation stand- I feel pleased with this result. I know their goods moving through the port in ards that the agency applies to private citi- sometimes we see a glass half full and zens. The bill will also establish a new policy a reliable and cost-effective, safe man- sometimes we see it half empty. I see it that gives a stronger emphasis on protecting ner. the environment and the natural systems half full. I am proud we made these For that reason, I am pleased the that provide critical natural flood protection amazing strides toward Corps reform. cost share for this project will be to communities. It also directs that there be Senator FEINGOLD is, shall we say, very equally divided—equally divided—be- a comprehensive study of the nation’s flood disappointed, and I respect that. I do tween the Commonwealth of Virginia, risks and flood management programs. not see it the way he sees it. through its port authority, and the ‘‘The reforms in this bill begin to put the So when I come back to some more of Federal Government. This is clearly a Corps on track towards becoming a more re- my time—but I will yield at this time— project with strong national benefits, liable and credible agency,’’ says American I will talk about how important this Rivers’ president Rebecca Wodder. ‘‘While we and it is only fitting that in this case bill is to the health and safety of our hoped that Congress would go farther in sev- the Federal Government help shoulder families, our communities, and our eral critical areas, we are pleased with the part of the cost because of the national passage of this first round of urgently needed economy. At this time I yield and we security interests and the fact that we changes. We intend to see that these changes will go to the unanimous consent serve so many other States. are executed to their fullest extent and call agreement. Again, I thank my distinguished out any weaknesses in this new process.’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- chairman and the ranking member of The gains in the WRDA bill would not have ator from Virginia is recognized for 5 been possible without the tireless work from our committee and others who made minutes. this amendment possible. lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, and Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, I lis- both sides of Capitol Hill. Senators Russ I yield back the remainder of my Feingold (D–WI) and John McCain (R–AZ) tened with great interest to our distin- time to my good friend and colleague, have long championed the issue of Corps re- guished chairwoman. I say to her, I such as he may continue with his form, and Senate Environment and Public commend you on your leadership and speech. Works Chairman (D–CA) and that of our distinguished ranking col- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, if I House Transportation and Infrastructure league, Senator INHOFE. It is quite an might make a unanimous consent re- Chairman James Oberstar (D–MN) deserve achievement. It has been 6 years of quest before my good colleague speaks. praise for working to change key aspects of working to get here, and I have been how the Corps operates. First of all, because my friends on Unfortunately, the conferees failed to pleased to be a member of this com- the other side are looking for time, I adopt the robust independent review provi- mittee for a couple decades almost yield them 3 minutes of my time, to sion that Senators Russ Feingold (D–WI) and now. But it is a great achievement. I Senator INHOFE, right off the bat—3 John McCain (R–AZ) and others had secured strongly support what you have been minutes. If the Chair could add that to in the Senate version of the WRDA bill in able to do and personally thank you for the time they have remaining. the last 2 years. The conferees instead adopt- your inclusion of an amendment that I The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ed a project review provision that lacks com- have felt very important. Senator plete independence. The final bill contains objection, it is so ordered. WEBB, my colleague from Virginia, and several loopholes that would allow the Corps Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask to avoid review under certain circumstances I announced on July 30 the basic text unanimous consent that following Sen- and ignore a review panel’s recommenda- of that amendment. I am pleased today ator CARDIN, Senator DEMINT be recog- tions. Worse still, the provision also to add a few closing words. nized for up to 20 minutes. inexplicably disappears after 7 years. Inde- The conference report—likely my The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without pendent review is particularly important in last WRDA as a Senator—includes the objection, it is so ordered. light of the flooding of New Orleans and the high priority Craney Island Eastward The Senator from Maryland. recent Government Accountability Office Expansion project. Craney Island rep- Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I rise in findings that Corps project studies were so resents a significant opportunity for support of the conference report on the flawed that they could not provide a reason- the Commonwealth to be home to the Water Resources Development Act of able basis for decision making. ‘‘The nation has been very well served by development of state-of-the-art cargo 2007. I start by thanking Senator the critical leadership of Senators Feingold operations. The project will accommo- BOXER for her incredible leadership and and McCain to reform the Corps,’’ says Me- date a major new terminal for the Vir- Senator INHOFE for bringing forward a lissa Samet, Senior Director for Water Re- ginia Port Authority and will create process that allows us to reach this sources for American Rivers. ‘‘We look for- over 54,000 new jobs annually, with moment where, after 7 years, we are ward to working with them to ensure that wages of about $1.7 billion. going to be able to pass a Water Re- the Corps strictly adheres to the reforms in- Now, this port serves not only the sources Development Act. cluded in this bill and that additional re- Commonwealth of Virginia, but its ten- Senator BOXER and Senator INHOFE forms as included in future legislation.’’ ‘‘Congress has taken a first step towards tacles reach deep into America. Many have developed a process where we more responsible river management,’’ adds States are served. could come forward with programs that Wodder. ‘‘American Rivers and our col- As home to the world’s largest naval are extremely important to our coun- leagues throughout the nation will be watch- base; that is, the Tidewater region, and try in a fiscally responsible manner,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.010 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11983 where we can come together in a non- So we are improving the Chesapeake I yield back my time and yield the partisan—not only bipartisan but non- Bay by this legislation, but we are also floor. partisan—way to move forward on this dealing with the economic realities of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- legislation. our waterways. ator from South Carolina. Let me start off by saying that in our The Port of Baltimore contributes $2 Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I rise to country today we spend .3 percent of billion to our State’s economy, em- express my concerns and disappoint- our gross domestic product on infra- ploying 18,000 Marylanders directly, ment about a number of provisions structure and buildings. That is deplor- and tens of thousands more indirectly. that have been added to this bill, the able. We saw the consequences of that I listened to my colleague from Vir- Water Resources Development Act, the failure to invest in our infrastructure— ginia talk about the Port of Virginia. bill we refer to as WRDA, that were not in our roads and our bridges and our As with the Port of Virginia, the Port part of the bill we passed in the Senate buildings—in what happened in Min- of Baltimore is vital to our national se- or not part of the bill that was passed nesota with the collapse of a bridge. curity, our national interest. This leg- in the House. In the Environment and Public islation extends the authorization for These provisions are earmarks be- Works Committee, we had a hearing on the 50-foot dredging of the Baltimore cause they direct spending directly at what we need to do as far as waste- Harbor and channels, which is very im- the request of a Member to a specific water treatment facility plants and portant to our economy, very impor- entity in their home State or district. how there are literally hundreds of tant to our region. Unfortunately, these earmarks were projects that go unfunded that are But the legislation does more. It con- not passed by either body in an open or damaging our health and damaging our tinues the commitment of the Army transparent way. Instead, they were environment. Corps and our communities to Poplar added behind closed doors in the dark Well, today we are prepared to move Island. Poplar Island was once an in- of night, as we sometimes say here. As forward with what I think is an ex- habited island. It is no longer the case. a result, these earmarks cannot easily tremely important bill. Once again, I But what we have done with Poplar Is- be debated, amended, or removed from congratulate the leadership on the En- land is we have made it a plus-plus. We the bill. vironment and Public Works Com- have a location for the dredge mate- I am very disappointed these provi- rials from the dredging in the Chesa- mittee, Senator BOXER, for making this sions were added in secret. That is not possible. peake Bay and our harbors, but we how we should do things here, and it is This bill is very important to our have also created an environmental ad- a direct violation of a stated goal of country. It is very important to our fu- vantage. Poplar Island has risen phoe- the ethics bill that was recently passed ture. I am proud to be a member of the nix-like from the waters of the Chesa- and signed by the President 10 days committee and proud to be a supporter peake Bay. ago. Mr. President, 570 acres of upland of this legislation. My colleagues on the other side of habitat and an additional 570 acres of Let me comment for a few minutes as the aisle came down to the floor one by wetland habitat are being created to what it means for the region of the one and praised the new ethics bill be- through the leadership of this Con- country I represent, in this general cause they said it would stop earmarks gress. That is good news for our envi- area where we all are today. from being added in the dark of night. ronment and good news for our econ- We have heard a lot about how this is I questioned the effectiveness of these omy. Poplar Island is a national model going to help the people of Louisiana, provisions at that time because they of how we should do the dredging and which I strongly support. I think we all had been watered down behind closed environmental improvements. There is have a responsibility to deal with the doors. Yet my colleagues on the other more in it for our region. side said it was the most sweeping eth- problems from Katrina. We heard how Smith Island is a remote inhabited ics reform in decades. They said there it is going to help in regard to the Ev- island in the Chesapeake Bay on the would be no more secret earmarks erglades. Maryland-Virginia border. It has lost This bill is the most important act in 3,300 acres of wetlands, and it is threat- added to our bills in conference. According to Taxpayers for Common regard to the Chesapeake Bay, which is ened to be totally lost to erosion. This Sense, this WRDA conference report a national treasure, and helps give a bill authorizes the construction of 2 contains numerous earmarks that were model as to how we can reclaim a body miles of breakwaters to protect over not part of either the House or the Sen- of water that is impacted by so many 2,100 acres of wetlands and underwater jurisdictions and States. We not only grassbeds. It is very important to our ate bill. Unfortunately, anytime we provide for the restoration funds that environment, very important to the talk about earmarks, it seems very are important for the Chesapeake Bay, people who happen to live on Smith Is- personal because it usually has a Mem- but we also provide, for the very first land. I am pleased we have included ber’s name on it, so I will start with time, that the Army Corps will supple- that in this legislation. South Carolina because one of the ear- ment the Environmental Protection This bill helps from the eastern shore marks added in conference was for Agency’s effort to repair and improve of Maryland, to the Chesapeake Bay, to South Carolina. Obviously, I would like wastewater treatment facilities that the mountains of western Maryland. to do everything I can to help my own benefit the Chesapeake Bay. The rewatering of the C&O Canal near State, but this was not the time or the Specifically, Blue Plains will benefit Cumberland will not only help as far as way to do it. There are a number of from this legislation. The users in the historical restoration of that part items for $10 million, $11 million, but, northern Virginia, Maryland, and the of our State but will also be important unfortunately, there is one item in District of Columbia—all of us—will for flood control. here for $1.8 billion. That earmark benefit from the wastewater treatment This legislation is comprehensive. It alone is more than 10 percent of the facility improvements at Blue Plains. helps all the regions of our country, total cost of the original bill. This was The new EPA permit for Blue Plains but helps our Nation as a whole. I am added in conference. It was not debated requires that the nitrogen load from proud to be a supporter of this legisla- or voted on. Now it is coming back and the plant be reduced by more than 4 tion. I am proud to have served on the it is unamendable. million pounds annually. This will be committee that helped create it. I urge All of these projects that were added the largest single nutrient reduction my colleagues not only to support this have added to the cost of this bill, and project in the bay watershed in a dec- legislation but urge the President to actually the cost has exploded. Accord- ade. All the experts say that should be please understand how important this ing to the Congressional Budget Office, our highest priority in regard to the bill is to our country. the projects contained in this bill to- Chesapeake Bay. It is a modest investment. It starts talled some $14 billion when it left the I am also pleased there is $20 million to reverse the process where, for too Senate, but then it was taken to con- in regard to oyster restoration in- long, we have ignored our infrastruc- ference. Behind closed doors, amounts cluded in this legislation, which is very ture in this country. It is the right were raised, new projects were added, important for the Chesapeake Bay and plan for America’s future. I urge my reforms were dropped, and the bill now very important for our environment. colleagues to support it. costs $23.2 billion. That is right. The

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.033 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 price of this bill has increased 66 per- son why we should restrict authoriza- requires that Congress direct this cent since it left the floor of the Sen- tion earmarks. They can be as waste- spending. I am uncomfortable with ate. ful, as misguided and, I am afraid, as that. This is the only place this year I know my colleagues, the Senator corrupting as appropriations earmarks. that my name is listed on a specific from California and the Senator from Authorization earmarks can be traded funding request for Missouri, and I am Oklahoma, have worked very hard on for bribes as easily as appropriations not comfortable with that. I under- this bill, and I believe there are some earmarks. stand it is a reality this law requires, good things in it. I was very pleased to After checking with the Senate Par- that if Congress is not directing this work with the Senator from California liamentarian, I understand there is funding, there is no funding. I believe on some reforms that will help us de- some confusion over the definition of very much we should reform the way authorize projects that have not been earmarks for this particular rule. The we fund the Army Corps of Engineers funded in 5 years or more and are cur- rule says it applies to provisions that projects. I believe it should be driven rently inactive. As my colleagues provide a level of funding to a specific by a cost-benefit analysis. know, the long list of backlogged project. What could be clearer? All the It is hard to understand why in this projects makes it very difficult for the projects I read about earlier fit that area, unlike any other area, not only Corps of Engineers to focus on real pri- definition, regardless of whether they are we in a position to decide level of orities. I am looking forward to work- are appropriations or authorizations. If funding, we are going to decide every ing with the Senator from California to people want to parse these terms and single project. Now, since this is so get a good list of the inactive projects say authorizations are not actual fund- unique, it is even more important that from the administration so the com- ing, then I am afraid we are not being we have complete transparency. Even mittee can deauthorize them in the completely honest. though I was uncomfortable with re- next WRDA bill. The Senator has told We all know how the Corps of Engi- questing specific funding, I understood me she will deauthorize these projects, neers works. We pass WRDA bills that the unique nature of this particular but if for some reason we are not able tell the Corps what projects to do, and bill, but I was comforted by the fact to get that done, this bill provides an then their annual appropriations bills that I believed all the projects were automatic mechanism to deauthorize provide money to complete these going to have a public airing, that they by the end of the fiscal year, following projects. But without an authorization were going to be included in either the House bill or the Senate bill, and that the fiscal year in which the projects in WRDA, the projects will not go for- there were not going to be any projects appear on the inactive list. This reform ward. Authorizations are important, that were put into the authorization is more important than ever because and we should be as open and as trans- bill through the conference process. the bill we are passing now or bringing parent about them as we are for appro- Unfortunately, that happened. That back up now increases the backlog of priations. would bring me to the point of having projects from $58 billion to approxi- I intended to raise a point of order to vote no on this bill because I believe mately $80 billion. So while this bill today against these new provisions very strongly in the principle that takes one step forward, unfortunately, under rule XLIV which was part of the whatever we include must be included it takes two steps back. ethics bill, but I understand the unani- in either the deliberations of the House The pricetag of this bill is too high, mous consent agreement we are oper- and it violates an important principle or the Senate. ating under prohibits me from doing This isn’t about the projects and the we need to honor. It includes new pro- so. In a minute I am going to ask for merit of the projects. I am sure they visions that were not in the bills we unanimous consent to be allowed to are all very meritorious. In fact, pain- passed, and that has to stop. That is make this point of order against the fully for me, one of them is in Mis- why I offered an amendment, along provision, and if I am allowed to do souri. This isn’t about the projects; with Senator ENSIGN and Senator that and the Chair rules that the point this is about the process. This isn’t MCCAIN, to the ethics bill earlier this of order is acceptable under the rule, about Democrats and this isn’t about year that would clarify that earmarks then, of course, I would urge my col- Republicans. This is about a bad habit. added in conference were subject to leagues to sustain this point of order so This is about getting into the habit of rule XXVIII of the standing rules of the we can take these provisions out. But directing authorization or spending in Senate, which prohibits what we call before I do this, I would like to ask a conference report instead of under out-of-scope matter from being added how much time I have remaining of my the bright lights of the Senate floor, to our bills in conference and which 20 minutes. the House Floor or committee work. can only be waived by 67 votes. Fur- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- We need to stop putting projects in ther, the amendment we offered would ator has 111⁄2 minutes remaining. conference reports that were not in the have created a 60-vote point of order Mr. DEMINT. I would like to reserve bill. Some people will say it doesn’t against earmarks added in conference. the remainder of my time but yield 5 matter; we have a backlog of all these If this point of order was sustained, the minutes to my colleague, Senator projects. Well, if it doesn’t matter, why provisions would be taken out of the MCCASKILL. do we need to do it? If it does matter, bill. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without it ought to be important enough to be Even the liberal Times objection, it is so ordered. in one bill or the other. editorial board this weekend made The Senator from Missouri is recog- I believe we need to reform not only their support for such a rule known. In nized. the way we fund the Corps of Engi- a weekend editorial entitled ‘‘The Mrs. MCCASKILL. Mr. President, I neers, to give more deference to their Value of Congressional Pork,’’ the L.A. appreciate the Senator yielding me discretion based on cost-benefit anal- Times said such a rule was a worthy some time. This is a unique bill in ysis, and I believe we need to stop the proposal that would make it harder for many ways. It is unique because there bad habit of always putting projects in lawmakers to insert last-minute is a different set of rules when it comes a conference report without the full af- goodies during reconciliation of Senate to the water projects bill and the water firmation and public airing that the and House bills. This is just plain good resources development in this country House and Senate deliberations pro- Government. for the Army Corps of Engineers. I be- vide. Unfortunately, the clarification to lieve as a former auditor we should be I yield the floor. rule XXVIII was eliminated from the allowing the Army Corps of Engineers Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I appre- final bill, even though it was unani- to direct funding based on a cost-ben- ciate the remarks of my colleague. I mously accepted here on the floor in efit analysis. A cost-benefit analysis would like to confirm what she has January. Even worse, the majority would allow the prioritization of said. I take no issue with the authority leader is now saying the 60-vote point projects based on the best value for our of the Senate to designate spending, of order against what we call dollar. particularly in authorization bills. airdropped earmarks should only apply The law requires, unlike any other While this practice has certainly been to appropriations bills. This is very dis- place in our Government—it was ex- abused, particularly in our appropria- appointing. There is absolutely no rea- plained to me when I got here the law tions bills over the years, my point

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.035 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11985 today is not to suggest that our com- bate and vote on them instead of add- is at stake. I could talk about Sac- mittee and the floor of the Senate do ing them in and trying to slip them by ramento. Finally, we have language in not have the right to authorize money in a conference bill. the authorization to move forward for particular projects, but I believe, as I am very disappointed in this body, with the proper flood control for the Senator MCCASKILL has said and made particularly after all the grand debate community of Sacramento. Mr. Presi- clear, that in the debate on the Senate about ethics reform, the disclosure of dent, 300,000 people live there. It is the floor, it seemed we unanimously agreed earmarks, the fact that none would be home of our State, the capital of our these projects should be brought to the added in secret. Over the last few State. We finally reached agreement. floor of the Senate and that if someone weeks, we have pretty much back- These are not agreements that come wanted to question them, we could tracked on everything we have talked from the top down; they come from have those amendments, and we could about, to the point where even liberal local government up. I think it is im- ultimately vote on the whole package. publications across the country are portant, as colleagues come to the But it seemed clear we all agreed that talking about the pork we are pro- floor to in a way demean this process, new earmarks should not be added in ducing in the Senate. Instead of doing to understand if they demean the proc- conference and then for that con- the Nation’s business and delegating ess, they are demeaning their own com- ference bill to come back without any authority to States, we are in effect munities. In Oklahoma, or in Cali- chance of amending it. That is not the weakening our ability to have a na- fornia, or Georgia—I see Senator type of business we talked about in the tional infrastructure that is safe and ISAKSON here. He and Senator BAUCUS whole ethics debate. So my issue is not works for all Americans. I am very dis- were invaluable to Senator INHOFE and with our ability to earmark or even the appointed not only that this has been me in doing all of this. practice of authorization bills desig- done but that a Member of the Senate The fact is these projects and these nating spending but that they are is not even allowed to raise a point of ideas and these needs come up from added in conference when we all agreed order against the fact that it has been local governments. As a matter of fact, that if it was not added in either the done. homeowners’ associations find them- Senate or the House bill, it could not With that, I yield the floor. selves faced with dangerous cir- be added in conference. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. cumstances because a river is rising For that reason, I ask unanimous WHITEHOUSE). The Senator from Cali- and there have not been the needed im- consent that I be allowed to raise a fornia is recognized. provements. Senator INHOFE and I point of order under rule XLIV. Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I yield share a commitment to shoring up our Mrs. BOXER. I object. Mr. President, myself 4 minutes at this time. infrastructure, including water re- reserving the right to object, let me Mr. President, it is my understanding sources, and I think when we look at say this. For 7 years, we waited for that now I have 14 minutes remaining all of the things that come before us— flood control and then we saw Katrina. on my side. Senator INHOFE has how and we are so torn in half here, Demo- For 7 years, we have waited for envi- much time remaining? crat versus Republican—here we have ronmental restoration. For 7 years, we The PRESIDING OFFICER. He has an opportunity to move forward in a have waited for navigation improve- 221⁄2, and the Senator has about 131⁄2. bipartisan fashion. As Senator INHOFE ments. For 7 years, we have waited, Mrs. BOXER. And Senator FEINGOLD would say in his way, because he has and the bottom line is, every single retains 20 minutes. been hammering at this, this is one project in this bill has a letter at- The PRESIDING OFFICER. That is step of a very important process. We tached to it saying who asked for it, correct. have added these independent reviews whether it was added in conference, Mrs. BOXER. If he doesn’t take that so that we have checks and balances all added in the first bill, the second or the 20 minutes, Senator INHOFE and I will the way through. I will retain the remainder of my third. share that time. I would urge that we get on with this I am sorry that Senator DEMINT has time. I thank the Chair. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- today, and I object to the unanimous left the floor, which oftentimes hap- ator from Oklahoma is recognized. consent request that we slow this thing pens after a Senator speaks. But I have to say that when I said we need to do Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, it is my down. understanding that we have 22 minutes The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- these Katrina-related fixes, his answer was that the reason we had a problem remaining. tion is noted. The PRESIDING OFFICER. That is with Katrina in the first place is the The Senator from South Carolina is correct. recognized. Corps didn’t do a good job, and I think Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I yield 7 Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I would certainly the Corps didn’t live up to minutes to the Senator from Georgia. like to suggest that one of the reasons our expectations. But what Senator Mr. ISAKSON. I thank the Senator New Orleans was not prepared for DEMINT doesn’t mention is that in this from Oklahoma and Chairman BOXER Katrina is we have so many problems bill before us, because of the hard work and Subcommittee Chairman BAUCUS with our infrastructure in the way we of Senator FEINGOLD and others, we for their outstanding work on the politically meddle with the priorities have now put into this bill an inde- WRDA bill. I urge my colleagues to of States, particularly with the Corps pendent review process where there support the conference report and of Engineers that has a backlog of bil- will be no projects going forward unless point out the critical need for the in- lions of dollars over many years. We and until there is an independent re- frastructure we have in this country. refuse to clear out those backlogs so port that the National Academy of Historically, every 2 years we have the Corps can focus on that which Sciences will, in fact, oversee. We have passed the WRDA bill. Now we have needs to be done, such as the levees in gone light years from where we were gone 7 years without that. What hap- New Orleans. Instead, year after year, before. That is why we have so much pened in the last 7 years? We have had we add one earmark after another, strong support for the bill. The Audu- significant droughts, we have had until the Corps has no focus at all on bon Society supports the bill, along Katrina, and we have had other great what they are doing, and we are trying with the Clean Water Fund, the Con- tragedies. It is about time that we to direct from Washington what our servancy of Southwest Florida, the came back to the floor and passed a water projects should be. American Shore and Beach Preserva- comprehensive bill. The fact that we have plussed this tion Society, the National Water Re- I know there has been criticism of bill up from $14 billion to over $23 bil- sources Association, and on and on and the amount of the bill. I saw a CBO lion, a 66-percent increase since this on. The fact is, if we had allowed the score of about $23 billion. I remind my bill left the Senate floor, says we have DeMint request to go forward, we colleagues that this is an authoriza- to have some shame. We have to have would be back to square one. We can- tion, No. 1. No. 2, it is 7 years in the some honor in this body. If we are not afford that. It has been 7 long making, not 2. No. 3, we have had sig- going to do this, let’s do it in a way years. nificant tragedies and have significant that we all said we would, and that is Again, the health of our communities threats in our own States that need to to bring these to the floor so we can de- is at stake. The safety of our families be addressed and need to be prioritized.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.036 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11986 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 I will take my own State as an exam- ing to be authorized. I can tell you that our permanent committees were put ple. I represent a State with a major the Senator from Georgia—I don’t together. We didn’t have committees metropolitan area, Atlanta. That city know of a member on the committee prior to that. So the responsibilities of has 5 million people whose water who has worked harder, or maybe even authorizing and appropriating were put source is Lake Lanier and the Chat- as hard as the Senator from Georgia. into these 11 committees in accordance tahoochee River. We don’t have So I thank him for coming here today with jurisdiction. aquifers in the north to draw from, and making his statement. By 1867, 51 years later, the Senate only the surface water that we retain. I know my good friend from South created the Appropriations Committee. Through the leadership of a visionary Carolina, Senator DEMINT, would not The Appropriations Committee had the Governor a few years ago, we passed intentionally misrepresent anything, idea that there was to be separate au- the Metro North Georgia Water Plan- but when he says once it is authorized, thorizing language with the appropria- ning District to take the consolidated it is just like spending, that isn’t true. tions. They were going to actually area of north Georgia and put it into a I know he hasn’t thought that through spend the money. Somebody else was singular planning district for water or he would not make that statement. going to do the authorization. purposes, management of storm water, We have a backlog, which has already In 1899, it was seen that they had to see if we could maximize the return been talked about several times here— kind of moved together, so the Appro- we get on the investment we make in a backlog of some $32 billion of Corps priations Committee was actually leg- the most precious thing we have, our projects that have been authorized but islating on appropriation bills. water. haven’t been done. That speaks for In 1922, a major change took place. In This legislation has money for con- itself. They are out there. How can you 1922, after the Accounting Act of 1921, veyance systems. Local water authori- say that—by the way, it is worthwhile the Senate changed the rules. They es- ties joined together with a regional saying or some people might say: Why tablished not only that the Senators plan to cooperate and build a solid are you authorizing more if they were going to be appropriating and not water infrastructure. haven’t even done those? Maybe some authorizing on the appropriations bills, Secondly, the Big Creek Water Man- of them are no longer necessary. I will but that is when the current rule XVI agement and Restoration Program is in give you a couple examples. In Okla- came into effect. It had been there for here, which I started 9 years ago with homa, we have a channel that goes all a different purpose. Rule XVI says if the city of Roswell, which was devel- the way to Muskogee, OK, or the Port the appropriators appropriate some- oped to manage storm water, its run- of Katusa. A lot of people don’t think thing that is not authorized, it is going off, and control water better in a major of us as being navigable in Oklahoma, to take a 60-vote point of order. That is urban area. It was cited by the EPA as but we are. It is a short distance that huge. That was very clear in 1922. They one of the most outstanding projects of is 9 feet, where the choke is. So we said we want to make it virtually im- its type in America. have had it authorized for a long period possible for the appropriators, without Also in here is a very visionary of time to make that a 12-foot channel. going through any authorization, to agreement between the Governor of It would make a huge difference. It unilaterally say we ought to have all hasn’t been authorized. Georgia and the Governor of South these projects; we don’t care if they are The Passaic River in New Jersey has Carolina, who signed a bistate water worthwhile or not. That is what hap- a flood control tunnel up there that compact for the construction of a port was authorized at $1.2 billion back in pened. to be operated jointly by the State of Then, slowly, since that time it has 1990. That wasn’t last year or the year Georgia and the State of South Caro- been going back to the appropriators before. So far, no money has come in lina in Jasper County, SC, on the Sa- getting more and more power. They there. vannah River. The Ports of Charleston Mr. President, I was disappointed in have been diminishing the power of the and Savannah are two of the major the way time was handled here. Let me authorizers. ports on the east coast of the United make a few comments and then per- Put up the military chart. States. With this planned agreement haps see if anybody else comes down I am on another committee. and the funding that pays for the study who needs to be heard. Mr. President, how much time do I put up by those States, and the study Right now, let me first redeem my- have remaining? authorized in this legislation, these self. We have a lot of people talking The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is two States will set a historic precedent about this. I know a lot of people are 12 minutes 30 seconds remaining. to reach out together and form part- watching, saying we are going to find Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, the nerships so as to make the maximum out who the conservatives are. There Armed Services Committee is an au- use of the port capabilities and facili- are a lot of ‘‘born-again’’ conservatives thorization committee. Let me tell you ties of our States on the Atlantic I have heard so far, who are not con- why the process of authorizing is im- Coast. servative but are opposing an author- portant. I could use almost any exam- A lot of work has gone into this leg- ization bill. I say that, redeeming my- ple I want to, but I will use missile de- islation. Senator INHOFE has worked self, in that—every organization, in- fense. tirelessly, as has Chairman BOXER, but cluding Human Events and the Amer- Right now, there are very few people I want to mention the ones who don’t ican Conservative Union, says I am not around since 9/11 who don’t know that get much credit: Mike Quiello and No. 2 or No. 3, Mr. President, I am No. there are monsters out there who will Caroline McLean, on my own staff; 1. Did you know that I am the No. 1 send a missile into the United States. Angie Giancarlo; Let Mon Lee; Jeff most conservative Member of the Sen- We now have a missile defense system Rosato; Ken Kopocis; Tyler Rushforth; ate? we are still developing. There are three Paul Wilkins; and Jo-Ellen Darcy, all I am here to tell you something that phases: the boost phase, the midcourse who spent countless hours to make this is very unpopular because nobody is phase, and the terminal phase. legislation come to pass. going to understand it after I explain it In the boost phase, quite frankly, we I thank the ranking member for the to you. I will get right into it. I am do not have anything that will knock time. I commit my vote to passage of going to tell you what authorization is. down a missile. We are working on two the conference report and ask my col- I hope some Members are listening, but systems: one, a kinetic energy booster, leagues to join me and show a signifi- I fear they are not. I think minds are and the other is an airborne laser sys- cant vote for the WRDA conference made up. By the way, this bill will pass tem. The airborne laser system is going committee report. by an overwhelming majority. No ques- to be great for us, but we are not there I yield back my time. tion about that. In a way, we are wast- yet. Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, first, let ing a lot of time right now. But I think Midcourse—we all have heard about me thank the Senator from Georgia. it is important that at least somebody the AEGIS system. I believe there are Working on these authorization com- says something that has to be said: 16 AEGIS ships right now. They have mittees is not easy. We have a lot of What is authorization all about? the capability of knocking down a mis- hearings and a lot of expertise, people The background of authorization sile during the midcourse phase. We looking, studying to see what is deserv- goes all the way back to 1816. In 1816, also have ground-based systems. We

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We, in our infinite wis- In retrospect, I was right and the have to have is a way of knocking dom in Washington, say we are smarter other 99 were wrong. They might argue these missiles down from anyplace in than the dumb people out in the with me on that point. But, nonethe- midcourse. We have two systems. An States. We said: Even though this is less, in the current bill, there are now appropriator might look at that and what you want or have to have, you some reports in the Everglades, so we say: I know where we can save money. can’t have it because we have this infi- are doing it the right way with this We don’t need two midcourse systems; nite wisdom in Washington. bill. one is enough. But that is not right be- I use these examples only because the I reserve the remainder of my time in cause the expertise in the authorizing authorizing system does work. We are case somebody else wishes to speak, committees says we have to have that supposed to pass this water resources but I have to say, in case I run out of coverage. development reauthorization every 2 time, I have a letter from the Assistant Lastly, the terminal phase. We know years. If we had done that every 2 Secretary of the Army, Civil Works, about the THAAD system, the PAC–3, years, we would not be faced with what Secretary Woodley, and the arguments the Patriot Capability-3 advanced sys- we are faced today. We would not be they use as to why they would rec- tem. One may say they are redundant, looking at $21 billion. It averages out ommend the President veto this bill but they are not. about $3 billion, if my math serves me are not right. Here is the point I am trying to correctly. We tried to get a bill in 2002, Frankly, I am really disappointed. If make. The reason we know, in the Sen- and we were not able to do it. We tried we are going to pass this bill—and it is ate Armed Services Committee, it is in 2004, and we were not able to do it. going to be passed by a veto-proof mar- important we have these systems is be- We tried in 2006, and that didn’t work, gin—if the President vetoes it, he cause we are staffed with a lot of really either. In fact, we did our job; we just knows it is going to be overridden, and I have to question why he would veto smart people. They are specialists in ran out of time, as I recall. Now it is it. Again, we are reauthorizing. We are this area of national defense. I could 2007. If we don’t do it this time, it is not appropriating one nickel with this have used the F–22 versus the F–35 or going to be another year, and it is bill. any other system we have, but the going to mean the appropriators are point is that the Armed Services Com- I retain the remainder of my time. going to go ahead and do these projects mittee is an authorizing committee The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who without going through the right au- which is staffed with experts. So is the yields time? thorizing process. Environment and Public Works Com- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I yield 6 I have to say it, and I say it in all minutes to Senator LANDRIEU of Lou- mittee. We have people who are experts sincerity to my good conservative in certain areas. The committee au- isiana. friends: This is not money we are The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- thorizes projects for the future. spending; it is authorizing projects as If we take away the Senate Armed ator from Louisiana. to what meets certain criteria. If we Services Committee and the committee Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, I look at some of the problems we are is no longer able to authorize, then we wish to follow up on the comments of having right now—Hurricane Katrina, are going to have appropriators sitting the good Senator from Oklahoma, who around waiting for somebody to come that was not foreseen and that was a I believe made some very appropriate up with what they want. Maybe it is a wake-up call. It could happen any- and strong arguments for this bill. contractor they know who has a sys- where. It was an infrastructure need. There are some reasons to vote tem and they will go ahead and use The collapse of the bridge in Min- against the bill, I guess, but I wouldn’t that system, but they wouldn’t have neapolis, that was a bridge on an inter- say one of them is because you are a the expertise. state. In Oklahoma, on I–40, we have a conservative. The Senator from Okla- I am not bashing appropriators. That bridge built with the same technology homa is absolutely correct, this is a is a very important part of the process. at the same time, and right now conservative approach to infrastruc- But they have to have some kind of a chunks of concrete are dropping off ture. This is the right approach. This is discipline in their spending. There is no that bridge and falling down below. We about investments. Whether one is rep- discipline. have, in my State of Oklahoma, the resenting the State of California, Let me mention something else that worst bridge situation. I am not proud which tends to be sometimes more lib- would be very unpopular. I said this on of this fact, but it is true. We have eral on issues, or representing a State the floor during the Transportation re- more deteriorating bridges than any such as Oklahoma, which tends to be authorization bill, which, at the time other State. These are projects we need more conservative, this is the right the Republicans were in the majority, I to be doing. vote. chaired the committee Senator BOXER I am ranked as the No. 1 most con- My colleagues can vote against this now chairs. At that time, a lot of peo- servative politician, but I have always bill because they don’t think it has ple were trying to latch on to items been a big spender in two areas: One, enough Corps reforms. Senator FEIN- that were wrong so they could use defend America—we need to defend GOLD’s position, although I disagree them to demagog. Remember the fa- America; no one else is going to do with it, is a legitimate position. He mous bridge to nowhere? Actually, it that for us—and No. 2, infrastructure. just believes the Corps should have would have been more accurate to say That is what we have talked about more reforms. Actually, I agree with a it is a bridge to nobody because the today. lot of what he says. But we couldn’t get bridge actually went someplace where We went through the long, involved a majority of Senators to go along with they couldn’t get except by barge traf- Transportation reauthorization. Mr. his proposal. We had to drop it or sac- fic and they could never develop that President, I am embarrassed to tell rifice the whole bill. I did not think it area. you, as sizable as that Transportation was worth sacrificing the whole bill. One of the few things that works well reauthorization bill was, if we were We have some reforms, and I am com- in Government, in my estimation, is able to spend all the money that was mitted and others are committed to the way we do the Transportation re- authorized, it would not even maintain continuing to work to reform the authorization. Everyone pays at the the current system we have today. Corps, to streamline the Corps, to force pump, and then the money comes into Let me mention one other point. them to stop wasting so much money the highway trust fund. Then we estab- Where were my conservative friends in and time. I am committed to do that in lish criteria. 2000 when we passed this huge, open- the future. Senator BOXER will remember that ended bill called the Everglades Res- But right now, we have wetlands to we had some 30 criteria we used with toration Act? It didn’t have any Corps save and levees to build. The Senator

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We are spending less today If we don’t start building levees and requires that the nitrogen load from than we did in 1929. protecting our people from these the plant be reduced by more than 4 I know nobody believes this informa- storms—and Lord help us if there is an- million pounds annually. This will be tion, but this is not a chart that came other terrorist attack—I just don’t the largest single nitrogen reduction from MARY LANDRIEU’S office; this is a know what we are going to do. So there project in the bay watershed in a dec- chart from the Corps of Engineers. is some urgency about this situation. ade. We can see in the runup to the wars, I will say in my final minutes that I The Port of Baltimore is one of the World War I and World War II, how this hope the President will not veto this largest ports on the east coast. It is a bolted up because we had to make some bill. I hope he will reconsider his posi- vital engine of economic activity, con- of these investments. But look at the tion and look at the vote, the over- tributing $2 billion to the State’s econ- precipitous slide, Mr. President. I say whelming vote in the House—and I omy and employing 18,000 Marylanders this because the Senator is correct. think we are going to have an over- directly and tens of thousands more in- The National Chamber of Commerce— whelming vote in the Senate—and say: directly. WRDA 2007 extends the au- not a bastion of liberalism—is sup- I thought about vetoing this bill, but I thorization for the 50-foot dredging of porting this bill. The Manufacturers of decided not to because the arguments the Baltimore Harbor and Channels. America—not a bastion of liberalism— have been good. The dredging that is authorized in this sent out a letter supporting this bill. Mr. President, I would ask unani- bill is essential to the economy of Bal- Why? Because business cannot operate mous consent for 30 more seconds. timore and the entire region. But it without ports and navigation and flood The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without produces millions of tons of dredge ma- control. Agriculture cannot operate if objection, it is so ordered. terials annually. In this bill, that sedi- every year their fields get flooded. Ms. LANDRIEU. So I hope the Presi- ment is being put to beneficial reuse. I don’t know how to explain this any- dent will reconsider this number, the The Corps is literally rebuilding an is- more. This is not porkbarrel, runaway lowest investment since 1929. I hope he land in the Chesapeake. spending. This is critical investments, will look at the hurricane maps, and Poplar Island once was home to resi- and it has been 7 years since this bill then I hope he will look at the land dents and hunting lodges. It had nearly has passed. loss in Louisiana. vanished, the victim of rising sea level and unrelenting erosion. Since this Senator BOXER didn’t run up a big I would like to just end with this. We tab. She has worked her heart out with have lost more than twice the amount project’s authorization in 1996, how- ever, the Corps has restored over 1,100 Senator INHOFE to get a bill passed in 7 of land in just the last storm—these months that should have passed 7 years red dots represent significant land acres of remote island habitat. Poplar Island has risen, phoenix-like, from the ago. loss—that if an enemy came and took waters of the Chesapeake Bay. Five As to the argument from the good this land away from us, we would de- hundred and seventy acres of upland Senator from South Carolina—and I clare World War III. But it is not an habitat and an additional 570 acres of know somebody has to come to the enemy, it is ourselves. wetland habitat are being created. floor and read talking points from So let us pass the WRDA bill. Today, even as the project continues, some organization about this bill, but I I thank the chairman and the rank- the island is once again home to migra- wish to say something about South ing member for their extraordinary tory shore birds, mammals, and rep- Carolina, Louisiana, Florida, and leadership. There are many good rea- tiles. It even serves as a nesting area Texas. This chart shows the hurricanes sons to pass this bill, and I hope we can for Maryland’s famous terrapins. The that have hit since 1955. I don’t know get a good vote in just a few minutes. expansion of authorized in the bill will how many more Katrinas, I don’t know Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, I rise in build upon this success. It will add an how many more Ritas, I don’t know support of the conference report on the additional 575 acres, about half upland Water Resources Development Act of how many more Hugos we need. But and half wetlands, to the restored is- these are the tracks of the storms. We 2007. The bill that is before us today land. have 300 million people who live in the contains key Corps reform measures. It The Poplar Island expansion project United States. I am just going to take helps move America forward in ad- authorized in this bill is important to a wild guess that 50 percent of them dressing a lengthy backlog of critical the Port of Baltimore and to the eco- live in the Northeast and the South be- water infrastructure projects, and it logical health of the Chesapeake Bay. cause I know the interior West is very authorizes essential ecosystem restora- But it is also a model for the Nation, lightly populated, so I would imagine tion efforts. showing us how Corps projects can be the gravity of the population is where This bill contains a number of provi- engines of economic success while at we are looking now. sions that are vital to Maryland—from the same time serving beneficial eco- How many more storms have to hit Cumberland in western Maryland to logical functions. before we pass a water bill? How many the great cities of Baltimore and Wash- Smith Island is a remote inhabited more homes have to be flooded? We ington and down to tiny Smith Island, island in the Chesapeake Bay on the lost 275,000 in Louisiana and Mis- which sits in the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland-Virginia border. It has lost sissippi last year. Two years ago today, Like so many other projects con- over 3,300 acres of wetlands, threat- Rita slammed into south Louisiana and tained in this bill, the Cumberland ef- ening the people who live there and de- east Texas. I focus so much on my fort will have multiple benefits. In- grading the Chesapeake Bay in the State, and, of course, I represent Lou- creased public safety will come from process. This bill authorizes the con- isiana, but I picked up the Houston the flood control provisions. The struction of 2 miles of breakwaters to Chronicle this morning, front page, big project also serves historic and com- protect over 2,100 acres of wetlands and headline: People in south Texas still munity restoration efforts, including underwater grass beds. waiting for help from the Federal Gov- the rewatering of the National Park WRDA 2007 is unlike any earlier ernment for homes destroyed 2 years Service’s Chesapeake and Ohio Canal WRDA bill. It contains Corps reform ago. and the reconstruction of the historic measures, ecological restoration This bill is not going to solve every turning basin there. projects, and environmental infrastruc- problem. It is not going to build every For the first time, the Army Corps ture projects. These provisions rep- levee. But we better get about raising will supplement the Environmental resent the future of the Corps of Engi- this chart up a little bit or I don’t Protection Agency’s effort to repair neers. It is the reason I support this know what our manufacturers and and improve wastewater treatment fa- legislation. I urge my colleagues to businesses are going to do. You can buy cilities to benefit the Chesapeake Bay. join me.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.040 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11989 Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I be- something I treasure, and I lament the and upgrade our waterways because so lieve that the passage of this bill is degradation that has occurred. Because many of our businesses—and millions long overdue and I commend Senator of this, I have been involved in Bosque of jobs—depend on them. The bill BOXER and Senator INHOFE for their ef- restoration since 1991, and I commend would also help restore aquatic eco- forts to pass this bill. the efforts of groups like the Bosque systems and habitats, and it includes There are numerous projects in this Coalition for the work they have done, several provisions that are important bill that are important to each state. I and will continue to do, along the for Michigan and the Great Lakes. would like to take a few moments and river. I wish to express my thanks to the highlight what this bill means to New Another project that is of great im- chair and ranking member of the Envi- Mexico and our environment. portance to New Mexico is the South- ronment and Public Works Committee, I would like to point out that the west Valley Flood Control Project. Senators BOXER and INHOFE, for their New Mexico related projects in this bill New Mexico is a desert State prone to work on this bill. I also want to thank were included, at my request, in the flash flooding during our monsoon sea- WRDA bill we passed in 2006. So the son. In order to protect our cities we them for including a number of impor- content in this bill should not be a sur- must take proactive steps to ensure tant provisions for the Great Lakes, prise to any of us and I hope that we that communities are prepared in the one of the world’s greatest natural re- can get this bill signed by the Presi- event of flooding. The Southwest Val- sources. The Michigan and Great Lakes dent quickly. ley is one such area that is subject to projects that I had requested, and One of the most critical New Mexico flooding from rainfall runoff. Due to which were included in the Senate bill, projects contained in this year’s WRDA unfavorable topography, flood waters were retained in the conference report. bill involves New Mexico’s Bosque. I pond in low lying developed areas and Additionally, other important projects have long envisioned the rehabilitation cannot drain by gravity flow to the Rio included in the House WRDA bill that and restoration of the Bosque. In fact, Grande River. This project resolves I asked to be included in the con- I have introduced legislation in this this problem and calls for the construc- ference report were retained. Congress that would do just that. This tion of detention basins and a pumping I am also pleased that a provision bill will allow us to implement this vi- station in Albuquerque for flood con- that I added as an amendment to the sion that concerns this long neglected trol in the Southwest Valley. Senate WRDA bill was retained in the treasure of the Southwest. This legislation also has a significant conference report. This provision would The Albuquerque metropolitan area impact on our environment. The Rio is the largest concentration of people expedite the operation and mainte- Grande Environmental Management in New Mexico. It is also the home to nance, including dredging, of the Great Program authorizes the Corps to ad- the irreplaceable riparian forest which Lakes commercial navigation channels dress environmental restoration and runs through the heart of the city and and infrastructure. This is a key provi- management on the Rio Grande and its surrounding towns that is the Bosque. sion because the Great Lakes are in the tributaries through planning, design It is the largest continuous cottonwood midst of a crisis: Freighters are getting and construction of habitat rehabilita- forest in the Southwest, and one of the stuck in shipping channels, other ships tion and enhancement projects and a last of its kind in the world. are carrying reduced loads, and some Unfortunately, mismanagement, ne- long term river data acquisition and shipments have simply ceased alto- glect, and the effects of upstream de- management program. This simple pro- gether. This WRDA provision would velopment have severely degraded the vision establishes a continuing author- work to address the very serious dredg- Bosque. As a result, public access is ity for addressing environmental res- ing backlog in the Great Lakes, which problematical and crucial habitat for toration and management on the Rio has been exacerbated by historically scores of species is threatened. Grande and its tributaries within the low water levels. I am also thankful Yet the Middle Rio Grande Bosque state of New Mexico. This project con- that the bill includes a Sense of the remains one of the most biologically sists of two main components. The first Congress that states that the Corps’ diverse ecosystems in the Southwest. component consists of planning, design budget for dredging should be devel- My goal is to restore the Bosque and and construction of small habitat reha- oped by using all available economic create a space that is open and attrac- bilitation and enhancement projects data rather than focusing on a single tive to the public. I want to ensure and the second component calls for a metric such as the amount of cargo that this extraordinary corridor of the long term river data acquisition and being moved. I worked with the Senate Southwestern desert is preserved for management program. The impacts bill managers to address this problem generations to come—not only for gen- that this project will have on New Mex- when WRDA was being debated on the erations of humans, but for the diverse ico will be tremendous. Senate floor. At that time, the bill Another program outlined in this plant and animal species that reside in managers agreed to work with me to year’s WRDA bill provides authority to the Bosque as well. address this problem in the conference the Corps to study, adopt, and con- The rehabilitation of this ecosystem committee, and indeed they did. And struct emergency streambank and leads to greater protection for threat- for that, I am grateful. ened and endangered species; it means shoreline protection works for protec- more migratory birds, healthier habi- tion of public highways and bridges, Also of vital importance for the tat for fish, and greater numbers of and other public works, and nonprofit Great Lakes navigation system is a towering cottonwood trees. This public services such as churches, hos- provision in the conference report that project can increase the quality of life pitals, and schools. This program pro- modifies the authorization to construct for a city while assuring the health and vides authority for the Corps to carry a second Poe-sized lock at Sault Ste. stability of an entire ecosystem. Where out ecosystem restoration and protec- Marie, so that it will be constructed at trash is now strewn, paths and trails tion projects if the project will im- full Federal expense for a total cost of will run. Where jetty jacks and dis- prove environmental quality, is in the $341,714,000. Two-thirds of the carrying carded rubble lie, cottonwoods will public interest, and is cost effective. capacity of the U.S. Great Lakes fleet grow. The dead trees and underbrush This is a worthy initiative that will is currently limited to the one large that threaten devastating fire will be benefit the environment throughout lock, the Poe lock. If the Poe lock replaced by healthy groves of trees. the United States. should fail, shipping between Lake Su- Schoolchildren will be able to study I urge my fellow Senators to help fur- perior and Lake Huron would essen- and maybe catch sight of a bald eagle. ther enhance and protect our environ- tially cease, and the steel industry, The chance to help build a dynamic ment through passage of this legisla- coal-reliant industries, and agricul- public space like this does not come tion. I believe that each State stands tural industries dependent on farm ex- around often, and I would like to see to benefit from this bill. ports would be severely harmed. This Congress embrace that chance on this Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I am authorization to waive the non-Federal occasion. proud to support this legislation today, cost-share requirement is an important Having grown up along the Rio which is so important for our Nation’s step for ensuring the viability of the Grande in Albuquerque, the Bosque is water infrastructure. We need to repair Great Lakes shipping infrastructure.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.048 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11990 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 Another important provision for the tion projects while doing nothing to retary of the Army for Civil Works, health of the Great Lakes that was re- modernize the system for funding these ‘‘Because the conference version of tained in the bill is a provision that au- projects. I wonder, did we learn noth- H.R. 1495 significantly exceeds the cost thorizes the completion of the dispersal ing from Hurricane Katrina? of either the House or Senate bill and barrier to prevent invasive species, In August of 2005, this Nation wit- contains other unacceptable provisions such as the Asian carp, from moving nessed a horrible national disaster. discussed below, the President will between the Mississippi River water- When Hurricane Katrina hit, it brought veto the bill.’’ I applaud the Presi- shed and the Great Lakes. Further, the with it destruction and tragedy beyond dent’s vow to veto this bill. bill directs the Corps to operate both compare, more so than our Nation had While the bill before us today in- barriers I and II at full Federal expense seen in decades. Almost 2 years later, cludes an ‘‘independent’’ review process and provides credit to those States the gulf coast region is still trying to in name, as Senator FEINGOLD and I that provided funds to begin construc- rebuild, and there is a long road ahead. have pushed for during debate on the tion of barrier II. The bill also directs I thought that we had learned a few last two Senate-passed bills, the con- the Corps to conduct a feasibility study lessons from this tragedy, but as our ference report provision does not pro- on other ways to prevent the spread of Nation continues to dedicate signifi- mote true independent review at all. invasives between the Great Lakes and cant resources to the reconstruction ef- Senator FEINGOLD and I championed Mississippi River. fort, we are now being asked to quickly language that would have established a The bill also retains a Senate WRDA approve a conference report that only process by which the planning and de- provision that I have been working on perpetuates the problems with both the sign of Corps projects could be re- for many years: the improvement of funding and management of the Corps viewed by a panel of experts. As stated Michigan’s water and sewage infra- of Engineers. by an editorial in structure. An authorization of $35 mil- During Senate consideration of this on August 6, 2007, entitled ‘‘Watered lion is included in the WRDA con- bill, Senator FEINGOLD offered an Down,’’ ‘‘The Corps has a long history ference report for a statewide environ- amendment that I was pleased to co- of overly rosy environmental and eco- mental infrastructure project to cor- sponsor that would have established a nomic analysis of such projects, tai- lored to the political needs of its rect combined sewer overflows, which system to give clarity to the process funders in Congress. Review of Corps is a major source of pollution in the used for funding Corps projects. Of projects by independent experts would Great Lakes and other waterbodies in course, that amendment was not adopt- deter such behavior, which threatens Michigan. Combined sewer overflows ed. It is unacceptable to me that this not only the federal budget but public Congress isn’t interested in how best to carry both stormwater and sewage, and safety. The Senate version of the legis- allocate our limited Corps resources or these can be discharged into streams, lation was very tough on this point.’’ I how taxpayer dollars would be used rivers, and lakes during periods of will ask to have the editorial printed in heavy rains. The $35 million provision most effectively. My question is, What the RECORD immediately following my is wrong with having some concept of in WRDA authorizes the Army Corps to remarks. partner with communities throughout what our Nation’s priorities are for wa- The legislation before us drastically Michigan to improve their sewer infra- terworks projects? Why are we reject- dilutes the Senate-passed provision and structure. These improvements would ing policies to help us identify where gives the Corps undue influence over not only benefit communities but the greatest infrastructure needs are? this panel. The review process will ac- would also help protect our precious Are people worried that showing the tually be housed within the Corps rath- water resources. American people how their money is er than outside the agency as the Sen- As the recent tragic collapse of a really being spent may result in their ate bill required, and the Corps’ Chief Minnesota bridge has made all too pet project being moved down the list of Engineers is also given significant clear, the repair and modernization of for funding? authority to decide the timing of re- this Nation’s infrastructure needs to be Today’s practice, as illustrated again view, the projects to be reviewed, and a much higher priority. Just as roads by this legislation, allows a Member of whether to implement a review panel’s and bridges need urgent repairs, we Congress to get a project authorized recommendations. This new system cannot wait further for authorizing im- and funded without having any idea of will only compound the problems with portant water projects that protect how that project affects the overall in- an agency that has brought about lives and property, support commerce frastructure of our Nation’s water- countless mismanaged and incredibly and industry, and preserve and restore ways—or whether it is even needed. expensive construction and mainte- our environmental resources. We have There is already a $58 billion backlog nance projects. waited 7 years for this bill. Now is the in Corps projects, and the bill before us I believe this conference report is time to pass this bill, and it should not increases that backlog by an additional fundamentally flawed in many ways, be held up by a Presidential veto, $23.2 billion according to the Congres- not the least of which is its cost. As which I am confident the Congress sional Budget Office. That is a 40-per- stated by the Tax Payers for Common would override. cent increase in the size of the existing Sense, ‘‘In High School Civics students While these important provisions, as backlog. Yet consider how much fund- learn that conference committees are well as several others that I have not ing the Corps receives annually on av- where lawmakers hash out the dif- mentioned, provide the authorization erage—$2 billion. Anyone can do the ferences between House and Senate for addressing the dredging backlog in math and realize that we are perpet- bills. But in the case of WRDA (H.R. the Great Lakes, restoring the environ- uating a significant problem. But that 1495), the Corps of Engineers water mental integrity of our waters, and won’t stop so many of my colleagues projects bill, a $14 billion Senate bill providing critical flood protection from congratulating themselves on met a $15 billion house and ballooned projects, the appropriations needed to passage of this bill—a bill the White into a whopping $21 billion monster. make these provisions a reality are House intends to veto. . . . The ultimate price tag will be far down the road. The next critical step is I find it particularly ironic that just higher because of numerous policy to appropriate the actual funding for before the August recess this body changes that are intended to shift costs these necessary projects. claimed to be turning a new page and from who benefits onto the federal tax- ∑ Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, I would taking significant steps toward ending payer. For these reasons, the President like to express my strong opposition to the process of secret earmarks and did the right thing by promising to the conference report on the Water Re- porkbarrel politics when it passed the veto the bill if it gets to his desk. . . . sources Development Act of 2007. The Honest Leadership and Open Govern- Lawmakers should start over again and legislation being considered today far ment Act of 2007. This bill is beyond come back with a fiscally responsible exceeds the already outrageous spend- more of the same with over 900 bill that includes stronger policy re- ing that was approved in both the projects, up from 600 projects in both forms for independent peer review of House- and Senate-passed bills and the Senate and the House passed bills. costly, controversial, or critical would drastically increase the backlog As stated in a recent letter from the projects, modernized economic guid- of Army Corps of Engineers construc- Director of OMB and Assistant Sec- ance and creates a system to prioritize

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.022 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11991 limited federal funding. All these pro- but there are more than enough votes to the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Riv- posals will save taxpayers in the long override. Imperfect as it is, this bill is likely ers. term.’’ to become law. Supporters of the com- The Mississippi River is the backbone Mr. President, it is time that we end promise, such as Sen. Barbara Boxer (D- of our waterway transportation system Calif.), chairman of the Environment and this process of blind spending, throw- Public Works Committee, say that their and transports $12 billion worth of ing money at projects that may or may tough oversight will make it work, a promise products each year, including over 1 not benefit the larger good. It is time that will itself be tested in the months billion bushels of grain to ports around for us to take a post-Katrina look at ahead.∑ the world. This efficient river transpor- the world and learn from our experi- Mr. KYL. Mr. President, although I tation is vital to Illinois. Shipping via ences over the past years instead of supported the Senate-passed version of barge keeps exports competitive and being content with business as usual. the Water Resources Development Act reduces transportation costs. That is Shouldn’t we be doing all that we can of 2007, I cannot support the conference good for producers and consumers. to reform the Corps and ensure that version of WRDA because it signifi- More than half of Illinois’ annual corn the most urgent projects are being cantly exceeds the costs of both the crop and 75 percent of all U.S. soybean funded and constructed? Or are we Senate and House-passed bills and in- exports travel via the Upper Mis- more content with needless earmarks— cludes many projects outside the Army sissippi and Illinois Rivers. too often at the expense of projects Corps of Engineers’ traditional respon- There are huge cost and environ- that are of most need? sibilities. I am not alone in my opposi- mental benefits to shipping by barge as I urge my colleagues to oppose this tion. Indeed, the Director of the Office well. Barges operate at 10 percent of conference report. of Management and Budget and the As- the cost of trucks and 40 percent of the Mr. President, I ask to have the edi- sistant Secretary of the Army have in- cost of trains. They release much less torial to which I referred printed in the dicated to Congress that the President carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, and RECORD. will veto the bill in its current form. hydrocarbons, and use much less fuel The article follows. The conference reported version of to operate. [From the Washington Post, Aug. 6, 2007] WRDA would cost approximately $21 But the system of locks and dams WATERED DOWN billion, which is about $7 billion more along the Upper Mississippi that make ANOTHER PORK-LADEN BILL FOR THE ARMY than the Senate and House-passed travel possible are in desperate need of CORPS OF ENGINEERS CONTAINS MODEST versions. The $21 billion ‘‘compromise’’ modernization. The current system was CHECKS ON FUTURE PROJECTS reached in conference is not a fiscally built 70 years ago and needs to be up- When Last we checked, the Water Re- responsible bill and, therefore, should dated to account for modern barging. sources Development Act was a $14 billion not pass. Many of the older locks are only 600 bill larded with pork-barrel projects. Now it The conference version also inappro- feet in length, while most current is a $21 billion bill, having taken on still priately contains many projects out- more pork in a House-Senate conference barge tows using the waterway are committee, and it appears headed for pas- side the Corps’ primary missions of twice as long. That means these goods sage. One small factor in the bill’s growth navigation, flood damage reduction, take twice as long to get down river was the addition, during the closed-door con- and ecosystem restoration, such as en- and into the marketplace. The con- ference, of tens of millions of dollars’ worth vironmental infrastructure projects. ference report before us today author- of pet projects not previously debated in ei- These environmental infrastructure izes replacing and upgrading many of ther chamber. Interestingly enough, Con- projects divert vital resources away the locks and dams along the Mis- gress has also just passed an ethics bill that from the Corps’ primary responsibil- sissippi. was arguably designed, in part, to prevent ities, and add to the backlog of Corps The legislation authorizes $2.2 billion this sort of thing. But that legislation has not yet taken effect. projects. This is especially troubling for replacing and upgrading locks and Of greater concern are the bill’s provisions since according to the Congressional dams and another $1.7 billion for eco- for independent review of proposed dams, Research Service the Corps’ backlog of system restoration along the river. levees and other projects to be built by the authorized projects is currently esti- As we have seen in the tragedy that U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps has mated to be 800 totaling nearly $38 bil- occurred along Minnesota’s 35W Bridge, a long history of overly rosy environmental lion to $60 billion. our country’s infrastructure is aging and economic analysis of such projects, tai- I do recognize that the conference and overburdened. lored to the political needs of its funders in version of WRDA contains a number of The projects included in the bill are Congress. Review of Corps projects by inde- pendent experts would deter such behavior, important projects, some of which are sorely needed to shore up our waterway which threatens not only the federal budget located in my home state of Arizona. I system, a vital component of our na- but public safety. would like to thank the Environment tional infrastructure. The Senate version of the legislation was and Public Works Committee for in- Unfortunately, the President has very tough on this point. It would have re- cluding many of the projects I re- threatened to veto the WRDA bill. This quired peer review of projects costing $40 quested in the bill. It is important to bill is years overdue, and a veto by this million or more and permitted state gov- note, however, that because of the Administration will mean yet another ernors, federal agencies and the general pub- backlog of Corps projects and concerns lic to initiate mandatory peer reviews of delay for important projects in Illinois other projects. It would have created a sepa- relating to WRDA’s costs, I limited the and across the country. rate federal office to oversee the reviews, requests I made. The same cannot be The WRDA conference report passed and it stated explicitly that federal courts said for the conference version of the House this August by a vote of 380– did not have to defer to the Corps’ reasoning WRDA. Consequently, I cannot support 40. And when the Senate originally when the agency decided to reject the find- the bill in its current form. considered the bill earlier this year, ings of an independent panel. But, after ne- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I rise there were only four dissenting votes. gotiations between the Senate and the today in support of the Water Re- The bill will be sent to the President House, which favored a nearly toothless sources Development Act of 2007. We with broad bipartisan support from process, the final bill leaves out much of the Senate language: It raises the minimum dol- have waited a long time for this bill, both the House and the Senate, and he lar amount slightly, to $45 million, and says almost 7 years. should reconsider his threat to veto that only governors, not federal agencies or I thank Chairman BOXER and Rank- this bill. public interest groups, can call for manda- ing Member INHOFE for their hard work I encourage all of my colleagues to tory peer review. The Corps can waive review on this legislation and getting this bill support this bill and yield the floor. of smaller projects where it sees no environ- through a conference and here before The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who mental issues. Inexplicably, the peer review us today. yields time? law expires in seven years. The bill authorizes navigation, eco- Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I yield The good news is that the bill requires the system restoration, and flood and Corps to assign the reviews to the respected myself such time as I may consume. National Academy of Sciences; it also wisely storm damage reduction projects all Mrs. BOXER. Will my friend yield permits reviewers to consider a wide range of over the country. Most significantly just on the time issue? issues. President Bush has understandably for Illinois, the bill will increase lock It is my understanding that Senator threatened a veto because of the bill’s cost, capacity and improve the ecosystem of FEINGOLD has yielded us 20 minutes, so

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.016 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11992 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 I ask unanimous consent that Senator the streets; it was unfunded mandates. are outside of and inappropriate for the INHOFE get an additional 10 minutes So we had the Federal Government mission of the Corps of Engineers, and and I get an additional 10 minutes. coming along telling us what to do and so forth. Well, the conference report The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. mandating that certain things be done, does not include authorization of sur- STABENOW). Without objection, it is so and some of my poorer communities in face transportation projects for the ordered. Oklahoma were just not able to do it. Corps of Engineers. That isn’t some- Mr. INHOFE. Madam President, let Let me just give a couple of examples. thing we do. me say to my good friend from Lou- All of these towns and cities in Okla- So you look at the arguments they isiana that I do agree with her. I hope homa I have been in and I have seen have, and it gets right back to the ar- the President doesn’t veto this bill, but different things the Federal Govern- gument that the attack here, as I said, whether he does or doesn’t, it won’t ment has come in and told them to do going all the way back to 1816, is on the make any difference. The outcome is and not funded them. They are projects authorization process. The only dis- going to be the same. We are going to in Ada, Norman, Wilburton, Weather- cipline we have in spending in this have this bill. But let me give him the ford, Bethany, Woodward, Langley, body is to have an authorization proc- assurance that the place to start using Durant, Midwest City—that project in ess. his veto is when we start spending Midwest City is a water infrastructure Again, I will repeat, there is going to money in places we shouldn’t spend type of project—Ardmore, Guymon, be some of these that are authorized money and not on this authorization. OK, out in the panhandle. I was out that I would feel in my heart should I am going to make sure everybody there during the last recess, and they not be appropriated, and I will fight understands, even though I have made were having a very serious problem against their appropriation. That is a number of statements here in support with wastewater treatment. This would where the battle should be fought, and of this authorization bill, it doesn’t resolve that problem. Altus, OK; I think it is going to be. mean I am going to support everything Chickasha, OK; Goodwell, OK; I don’t want to question anyone’s sin- on it. There will be things, when it Bartlesville, Konawa, Mustang, and cerity in their opposition, but I think comes up to appropriations time, that I Alva. And when you stop and you think there are a lot of people who will go will be down here leading the opposi- about all these things, these are things home and have a press release saying: I tion and asking the President to veto that—it should not be their responsi- voted against spending some $23 bil- some of these things. But you have to bility. They do not have the capability lion. Nothing could be further from the have discipline in some way. There has of doing it. They are all things that truth. You oppose the authorization to be some kind of a guideline, some came from the Federal government. system and you oppose discipline in kind of criteria used. Here I am, the No. 1 most conservative spending. Let me for a minute talk parochially Member, saying Government does have Madam President, I reserve the re- about my State of Oklahoma. These a function. The major function I have mainder of my time. are things that are in here for my always said is defending America and Mrs. BOXER. Madam President, State but things that should be in here. its infrastructure. could you tell us how much time re- Let me mention a couple of things, if These are things the Government mains between Senator INHOFE and my- I could, Madam President. should be doing. self? I have a letter here from the Depart- Lake Arcadia is a good example. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ment of the Army, the Assistant Sec- city of Edmond is the fastest growing ator from Oklahoma has 6 minutes, and retary of Civil Works, which is the city in Oklahoma. Because of a set of the Senator from California has 13 min- Corps of Engineers, and they say the circumstances, they were being billed utes. Corps already has an enormous backlog and have been billed for years now for Mrs. BOXER. Madam President, let of ongoing projects that will require fu- water they were not even using. All me say as we wind down that I think ture appropriations of some $38 billion. this committee, of which I am so proud that is corrected in here. In the event Well, I use that in my argument as to to be the chairman, and I am so pleased this bill should not pass, those people why this is necessary. There is a reason to work with Senator INHOFE on these of the city of Edmond, OK, are going to for the backlog. At the time, they were infrastructure issues, has done its have to come up with money to pay for authorized, but then circumstances work. I think we have done our job. something they never got. changed. Some of these projects don’t Now, of course, you can always find Lake Texoma—the same situation. need to be done and will never be done. The Red River Chloride Control Project By the way, when you talk about the something that somebody doesn’t like in this bill clarifies the operation and amount of money that is going to be in a bill, but the fact is, as Senator maintenance of Oklahoma chloride authorized, you don’t know, first of all, INHOFE explained with a most instruc- control projects at the Red River. This how much of that $21 billion or $23 bil- tive set of charts—and I thank him so is critically important to our farmers lion—maybe half of it—will ultimately much for going back through the his- in southern Oklahoma. be spent. We don’t know. Some may be tory of the difference between appro- We have Ottawa County’s Tar Creek. spent next year, some 10 years from priations and authorizations—this is The most devastating Superfund site in now. It is just authorizing, just saying an important step and a necessary step America that has been addressed now that at this snapshot in time, these are in the process but by no means the last for 25, 26 years is Tar Creek in northern things which need to be done in Amer- step. Oklahoma, which goes into southern ica, these are legitimate, these meet He talked about the appropriations Kansas, and nothing has been done. We the criteria. So that argument is no process, and I talked about the process have spent millions and millions of dol- good. now that Senator FEINGOLD and Sen- lars, until 41⁄2 years ago, when I became He says that adding excessive new ator MCCAIN got added to this bill. Al- chairman of this committee, with the authorizations to this backlog is though they are still not happy with help of the Democrats, Senator BOXER unaffordable and unnecessary. This everything we have done, it creates an included, we were able to actually get sentence implies it is inadvisable to independent review. So we will have in there and do something. We have authorize new projects until all current independent review, we will have ap- some of the projects that are necessary authorized projects are completed, and propriations. Therefore, this is a very to ultimately take care of that dev- nothing could be further from the necessary first step after these projects astating thing in northern Oklahoma. truth. Certainly providing adequate have come up really from our constitu- Now, I spent several years—three hurricane protection in New Orleans is ents, from our homeowners, from our terms—being mayor of a major city in a higher priority than some of the al- city councils, from our boards of super- Oklahoma—Tulsa, OK. In Tulsa, OK, ready authorized projects, but we visors, from our mayors and governors, one of the biggest problems we had— didn’t know it at the time these were et cetera. So I believe we have put to- and I daresay if you were to talk to any authorized. That is why this is impor- gether a bill that meets our commu- mayor in America they would say the tant. nities’ needs, and I think we have done same thing—the biggest problem in my It said in this letter that the bill will it in the very best way we can. We have city was not prostitution or crime in include numerous authorizations that complied with the new ethics rules.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.042 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11993 By the way, I ask unanimous consent time, Senate rules prohibit conferees from shared concern was with ‘‘appropriations to have printed in the RECORD a letter including in a conference report matter bills’’ and ‘‘spending.’’ (See id. at 425–427). In dated today from Majority Leader REID plainly within the scope of the conference. fact, Senator Coburn was very explicit in The anticipated interpretation by the Parlia- identifying the difference between an au- and the Rules Committee chair, Sen- mentarian is compelled by the plain lan- thorizing bill and an appropriations bill and ator FEINSTEIN, replying to Senator guage of amendments that you yourself stated flatly: ‘‘you don’t have an earmark if DEMINT on the issue of whether the sponsored during Senate debate on the ethics it is authorized’’ (Id. at S42); ‘‘Items author- Senate rule XLIV point of order applies bill. ized are not earmarks’’ (Id. at S427). to authorization bills. Amendment No. 11, which you successfully Similarly, in Senator Ensign and McCain’s There being no objection, the mate- offered and the relevant part of which was comments regarding Amendment No. 98, rial was ordered to be printed in the included word-for-word in the final law, re- they spoke about federal spending and appro- quires public disclosure not only of certain priations bills, not authorizing bills—‘‘We RECORD, as follows: items ‘‘providing’’ funding but also items should scrutinize how Federal dollars are U.S. SENATE, ‘‘authorizing or recommending’’ funding. spent’’; ‘‘We must ensure that taxpayers’’ OFFICE OF THE MAJORITY LEADER, Thus, the explicit language requires disclo- dollars are being spent wisely’’; ‘‘The growth Washington, DC, September 24, 2007. sure of items in appropriations bills, author- in earmarked funding in appropriations bills Sen. JIM DEMINT, izing bills, and even report language accom- during the past 12 years has been stag- U.S. Senate, panying bills. gering.’’ (Id. at S 741, emphases added). Noth- Washington, DC. But Amendment No. 98, which you co-spon- ing in the floor debate on S. 1 reflects an in- DEAR SENATOR DEMINT: Thank you for sored with Senators Ensign and McCain and tent to subject authorizing language in con- your letter last Thursday regarding the ear- which was adopted by unanimous consent, ference reports to the point of order under mark reform provisions in Public Law 110–81, contains a completely different definition of Rule XLIV. Quite the opposite—the plain the Honest Leadership and Open Government items that would be subject to a point of language of the amendments and the floor Act of 2007. This law, which passed the House order if included in a conference report. This debate on earmarks was focused on spending by a vote of 411–8 and the Senate by a vote definition, unlike the definition in Amend- and appropriations bills. The sentiments you of 83–14, has been hailed by independent con- ment No. 11, makes no reference to author- now express simply do not square with rel- gressional reform advocates as ‘‘far-reaching izations; instead, it describes an item ‘‘con- evant legislative history. reform’’ and ‘‘landmark legislation.’’ Ac- taining a specific level of funding for any There are sound policy reasons for the dis- cording to Democracy 21 President Fred specific account, specific program, specific tinction between authorizations and spend- Wertheimer, ‘‘this Congress has passed fun- project, or specific activity, when no such ing provisions under Rule XLIV. The avail- damental government integrity reforms to specific funding was provided for’’ in either ability of a surgical point of order against a respond to the worst congressional corrup- the House or Senate bill. Further, a provi- conference report represents an exception to tion scandals in thirty years.’’ sion in that amendment made clear that it the long-standing parliamentary principle The new law (and procedures adopted by only applied to appropriations conference re- that a conference report may not be amend- Senate committees in anticipation of the ports—if a point of order was sustained, ‘‘any ed. Since conference reports must be adopted law’s enactment) has already improved pub- modification of total amounts appropriated in identical form by both houses of Congress, lic awareness of earmarking activity—activ- necessary to reflect the deletion of the mat- endless amendment of conference reports ity that had been obscured from public view ter struck from the conference report shall would disrupt the orderly resolution of legis- even as the number of earmarks exploded be made’’ (emphasis added). The definition in lative disagreements. In order to instill during Republican control of Congress over Amendment No. 98 was incorporated essen- needed discipline in the legislative process, the last decade. For the first time, earmarks tially word-for-word into Public Law 110–81. the new law creates two exceptions to that and the identity of their sponsors are fully The inclusion of the word ‘‘authorizing’’ in principle: the surgical point of order against disclosed on the Internet before legislation Amendment No. 11 and the absence of that out-of-scope material under Rule XXVIII and comes to the Senate floor, and there is a word—along with the trigger of ‘‘specific the point of order against new spending meaningful process to curb the inclusion of funding’’ and reference to ‘‘amounts appro- items in conference reports under Rule dead-of-night spending in conference reports. priated’’—in Amendment No. 98 compel the XLIV. But extension of the Rule XLIV point Your letter of September 20 challenges an Parliamentarian’s ruling that authorizations of order to authorizing language in con- anticipated ruling by the Senate Parliamen- are subject to disclosure but not subject to ference reports is unwarranted and would tarian regarding the scope of the new point the new point of order in Rule XLIV. An au- thwart finality in the legislative process. of order in Rule XLIV. But you fail to ac- thorization bill does not contain ‘‘specific Stronger safeguards are appropriate when knowledge that the ruling you now claim to funding’’ and it does not ‘‘appropriate’’ any Congress actually spends taxpayer money, be ‘‘saddened’’ by is compelled by key defini- amounts; it is merely permission for possible whether in appropriations bills or in other tions in two amendments you sponsored dur- funding in the future. An analysis by the bills which directly affect the federal budget. ing Senate floor debate last January, both of Congressional Research Service confirms But when Congress passes an authorizing which were incorporated into the final bill this interpretation: bill, it is simply expressing a goal. For in- essentially word-for-word. Further, the an- In summary . . . both the originally-passed stance, spending for disadvantaged students ticipated ruling is grounded on sound policy rule (Section 102) and the new Rule XLIV, under Title I of the No Child Left Behind Act reasons involving the distinction between paragraph 8, would seem to apply to provi- was authorized at $25 billion in FY07, but mere authorizations and actual spending sions providing appropriations and direct only $12.8 billion in funding was actually ap- provisions—a distinction that you and Sen- spending only, generally to provisions that propriated. The pending Water Resources De- ator Coburn openly discussed during floor de- provide some form of spending authority. velopment bill authorizes billions of dollars bate on your amendments. Neither rule would seem to apply to provi- for water projects, but the actual funding of At the outset, we note that many of the sions simply authorizing or reauthorizing a those projects will occur through the appro- new rules in Pub. L. 110–81 apply to author- program, project, or activity, without pro- priations process. In fact, tens of billions of ization bills as well as spending bills. For ex- viding any funding. dollars worth of water resources projects ample, the newly strengthened Rule XXVIII, Memo from the Congressional Research have been authorized over the years, but which permits ‘‘surgical’’ points of order Service to Majority Leader Reid, September have not yet been funded through an appro- against out-of-scope matter in a conference 11, 2007. priations bill. Each of the spending decisions report, applies to all types of conference re- The remarks of you and your co-sponsors in the appropriations bills will be subject to ports, including authorizing bills and appro- during the Senate floor debate on S. 1 also the discipline that the new Senate rules im- priations bills. The Rule XXVIII point of reflect this understanding. In arguing for pose on such bills and may be challenged order maintains the longstanding definition earmark reform you spoke about ‘‘spending’’ during consideration of those bills. of out-of-scope matter. and ‘‘appropriations’’ bills. For example, you When earmark abuse occurs, it involves Similarly, the disclosure requirements in said: ‘‘And if we put that money in an appro- the unjustified use of taxpayer money—not new Rule XLIV apply to legislative items priations bill designated just for them, it is the setting of authorization levels. It is ap- that merely authorize spending, as well as an earmark. That is a Federal earmark.’’ propriate to require full disclosure of all those that actually spend money. Moreover, (Cong. Rec. 8417, Jan. 11, 2007). You urged items that involve specific member-re- disclosure is required for items in committee that Congress ‘‘show the American people quested projects, including authorizations, reports as well as in legislative text. Infor- that we were going to spend their money in but only those items that actually spend mation about such items, including the iden- an honest way.’’ (Id. at 8416). You said you taxpayer money should be subject to the ex- tity of the members who sponsored them, were ‘‘trying to let the American people traordinary procedure of allowing a point of must be posted on a public Internet website know how we are spending their money.’’ (Id. order to strike a provision that is within the 48 hours before a bill is considered on the at S417). And you made the point that ‘‘in scope of conference from a conference report. Senate floor. the appropriations bills there were 12,852 ear- Despite your ongoing campaign to dis- The new point of order in Rule XLIV, how- marks.’’ (Id. at S426). (Emphases added in credit the Honest Leadership and Open Gov- ever, applies to actual spending rather than each case.) ernment Act, we remain confident its pas- to mere authorizations. This new point of In your floor colloquy with Senator sage was a major accomplishment. 83 Sen- order is extraordinary because, for the first Coburn, he repeatedly emphasized that your ators and 411 House members voted for the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.043 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11994 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 final bill because they recognized it for what of new jobs right here in America. The Mr. INHOFE. Madam President, it is it is: the most sweeping ethics reforms in port economy is responsible for ap- my understanding I do have more time years and a huge step forward toward restor- proximately 5 million jobs—and ‘‘jobs’’ left than I will take. A quick word. I ing the confidence of the American people in is your middle name, Madam Presi- had a communication from my wife their government. Sincerely, dent. So this bill will keep jobs being that she thought I was getting a little HARRY REID, created and keep goods moving. WRDA emotional about this, so let me end on Senate, Majority Leader. is essential for goods movement. a very positive note and say, yes, I DIANNE FEINSTEIN, I mentioned recreation. Maybe some have a presentation I make to groups, Chair, Senate Rules Committee. people don’t know this, but the Corps to conservative groups, talking about Mrs. BOXER. So, Madam President, of Engineers is the largest provider of the history of authorizations since we have complied in full with the Eth- outdoor recreation, operating more 1816. I gave an abbreviated edition a ics Committee, and we worked with the than 2,500 recreation areas at 463 few minutes ago. Parliamentarian every step of the way projects and leasing an additional 1,800 It is so frustrating to me to see peo- to make sure we were in total concert sites to State or local parks and recre- ple saying, if for some reason—it isn’t with that new law because we are re- ation authorities or private interests. going to happen. This is going to pass spectful of it. We have letters from At these projects around the country, by a huge margin. If the President ve- every Senator. We have a transparent the Corps hosts 360 million visitors a toes, he knows it will be overridden. process here. Everyone who asked for a year at its lakes, beaches, and other But if for some reason this didn’t pass, project put their name on the line, and areas. One in ten Americans—25 mil- we would be right back where we were we made sure there was no pecuniary lion people—visits a Corps project at in 2002, 2004, 2006, and we would be hav- interest of a Member or their family. least once a year, and this generates ing appropriators out there without So this is an important day for our 600,000 jobs related to all of this move- any kind of discipline or any kind of country. We have all said this in dif- ment. process to go through in making those ferent ways, but we are authorizing So, colleagues, we can all agree that determinations. projects our communities need to help public health and safety, economic I think it would be the wrong thing protect millions of people in our Na- growth, and environmental protection to do. tion from catastrophic flooding. It also are important goals, and this bill helps Lastly—I didn’t mention this—in will help restore the great wetlands, es- to achieve them. Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas, we tuaries, and rivers of our Nation, Finally, I wish to say a word of had quite a number of floods. If it had places where wildlife thrive and that thanks to leader HARRY REID, who has not been for what the Corps of Engi- our families enjoy today. We want to just come onto the floor to make a neers had already done that was pre- make sure they enjoy them in the fu- statement of his own. I know Senator viously authorized and then later on ture—the hunting, the fishing, the INHOFE and I spoke to Senator REID was appropriated, it would have cost boating, the camping, the outdoor in- many, many times, and I know it is dif- us, they now say, $5.4 billion more in dustries. ficult for him because, just so the pub- damages than it did. By the way, those outdoor industries lic understands, everyone who gets a I hope the good conservatives will are a very important part of our econ- bill out of his or her committee goes look at this and realize we have to omy. We call it the recreation econ- right to the majority leader to beg for have authorization in the process. omy. Without these projects, they sim- time. I yield the remainder of my time. ply won’t be able to thrive. He made a commitment to me. He The PRESIDING OFFICER. The dis- WRDA makes other important con- told me, and I remember it: When the tinguished majority leader. tributions. It authorizes projects for Jewish holidays are completed, we will Mr. REID. This will be the first and our communities that they need to in- turn to WRDA. And that is what he last vote today. crease their capacity at their ports, to did. He is a man of his word. This is so Madam President, I have been chair- make shipping easier, safer, and more very important for the country. man of this committee on two separate efficient. It literally keeps America’s Finally, let me thank the staff. First, occasions, the Environment and Public economy moving. You cannot have a the Democratic staff: Bettina Poirier, Works Committee. This is a masterful great country if you don’t keep up with Ken Kopocis, Jeff Rosato, Tyler piece of legislation that was put to- the infrastructure needs. We saw what Rushforth; EPW Republican staff: gether by the two managers of this bill; happened when a bridge collapses, and Andy Wheeler, Ruth Van Mark, Angie the chairman, Senator BOXER, ranking we are dealing with that in the com- Giancarlo, Let Mon Lee—I have gotten member Senator INHOFE. They have mittee as well. to know these as family; also, the staff been in reverse rolls. Senator INHOFE Look what happens if we don’t keep of Senator BAUCUS: Jo-Ellen Darcy and was chairman of this committee. up with our water projects. We are not Paul Wilkins; and staff of Senator People complain about the Senate going to be able to move our ships. I ISAKSON: Mike Quiello. not working together on a bipartisan know there are, for example, in Cali- This has been not an easy time. But basis and perhaps that is true on a lot fornia so many ports, but in many when you get a bill that is supported of occasions. But there are many occa- cases a lot of silt builds up and they by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the sions where we need to look at the can’t move those ships through. So we National Association of Manufacturers, glass being half full rather than being need to do that. These are our gate- the American Farm Bureau, and the half empty, and here is an example of ways to the world. Our manufactured three biggest construction labor orga- the glass being half full. This is a fine goods, such as computer chips, agricul- nizations—Laborers’ International, piece of legislation that is being tural goods, grains, wines, and fruits, International Union of Operating Engi- pushed by two Senators with ideolog- pass through our ports and harbors to neers, United Brotherhood of Car- ical bents that are totally different. be sold around the world. We have $5.5 penters and Joiners—when you get all Senator BOXER has one political philos- billion worth of goods passing through those, plus a host of local people, plus ophy, Senator INHOFE has another. But our ports each day and more than 2.5 a host of water people, I think we are that is how things should work around billion tons of trade moving through answering a need. here. our ports each year. Colleagues, that Again, I thank each and every mem- Being a little bit personal about this, volume is expected to double over the ber of the staff, my dear friend Senator I think people recognize that Senator next 15 years. INHOFE for being such a good fighter for ENSIGN and I work very well together. That is why we say to this President: this, and all the Members of the Sen- We are not political soulmates, but we Please, please sign this bill. Why do we ate. I know we are going to have a are friends and we work together. That have to fight over every single thing? great vote. is what has been accomplished. We The fact is, you can’t have a great It is my understanding Senator don’t have political soulmates, but economy, the greatest economy in the INHOFE may have a closing word prior they work together, giving and taking, world, if we can’t keep our goods mov- to Senator REID speaking, so I yield my and legislation is the art of com- ing. And we need to create thousands time. promise, consensus building. That is

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.014 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11995 what this is. Senator BOXER didn’t get NAYS—12 It also directs the Army Corps of En- all she wanted. Senator INHOFE didn’t Allard Ensign Kyl gineers to study Woods Hole, the East get all he wanted. But they got some- Burr Enzi McCaskill Basin of Cape Cod Canal in Sandwich, Coburn Feingold Sessions thing good for this country. DeMint Gregg Sununu and Oak Bluffs Harbor to determine whether the Army Corps should pro- I want the record spread with the NOT VOTING—7 fact that this is an extremely impor- ceed with dredging in those areas to Biden Kerry Smith improve navigation. It modifies the co- tant piece of legislation that literally Brownback McCain could not have been accomplished—not Dodd Obama ordinates of the federal navigation channels in Chatham’s Aunt Lydia’s only with what they did in com- The conference report was agreed to. mittee—they got it passed on the Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I move Cove and Falmouth Harbor. These floor—frankly, without the persistence to reconsider the vote. modifications will support waterfront they have had. Anytime I tried to turn Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I move development by increasing access to away from it, they would head me in to lay that motion on the table. the channels. the right direction. I am glad we are The motion to lay on the table was An earlier Army Corps of Engineers here. This bill deserves a big vote. This agreed to. restoration plan for Milford Pond rec- is one of the finest pieces of legislation The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ommends that the pond be dredged. this body has passed all year. ator from Louisiana is recognized. The conference report authorizes the The PRESIDING OFFICER. All time Ms. LANDRIEU. Mr. President, as we Army Corps of Engineers to assist the has expired. conclude this historic vote, I thank community in removing the excess colleagues on both sides of the aisle sediment. Mrs. BOXER. I ask for the yeas and and briefly will put a few names into Finally, the conference report directs nays. the RECORD. I know we are moving to the Army Corps to prepare an environ- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a another bill. I wish to thank Senator mental restoration report on Mill Pond sufficient second? There appears to be BOXER, Senator INHOFE, and Senator in Littleton. This report is an essential a sufficient second. The question is on REID, for living up to his commitment. step before the Army Corps can assist agreeing to the conference report. The For the RECORD, there were several the community in removing excess yeas and nays have been ordered. people on my staff who worked so hard sediment and restoring the pond. The clerk will call the roll. over the last 7 years: Herman ‘‘Bubba’’ Much good will come from the provi- Gesser, Allen Richey, Paul Rainwater, The assistant journal clerk called the sions I have described here, all of which Kathleen Strottman, Jason Matthews, roll. I worked to include in the final version Jason Schendle, Stephanie Leger, Rob- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the of the Water Resources Development ert Bailey, Jennifer Lancaster, Tanner Act. However, we must recognize that Senator from Delaware (Mr. BIDEN), Jackson, Mark Tiner, Lauren Jardell, the Senator from Connecticut (Mr. our work to improve Corps of Engi- Elaine Kimbrell and Lucia Marker- neers project planning is not done. DODD), the Senator from Massachusetts Moore. Corps project planning must account (Mr. KERRY), and the Senator from illi- That is how long this bill has been for climate change, and Corps projects nois (Mr. OBAMA) are necessarily ab- going on. I have literally had 12 people sent. should use nonstructural approaches in and out of the Projects Department whenever practicable to help protect I further announce that, if present working on this bill. the natural systems that can buffer the (At the request of Mr. REID, the fol- and voting, the Senator from Massa- increased floods, storms, storm surges, lowing statement was ordered to be chusetts (Mr. KERRY) would vote and droughts that we will see as the printed in the RECORD.) ‘‘yea.’’ Earth’s temperature continues to rise. ∑ Mr. KERRY. Mr. President, I was Mr. LOTT. The following Senators The safety and well-being of commu- necessarily absent from the vote today are necessarily absent: the Senator nities across the country are at stake. on the conference report of the Water from Kansas (Mr. BROWNBACK), the Resources Development Act. Had I Many of my colleagues have already Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN), expressed their support for this impor- and the Senator from Oregon (Mr. been present, I would have supported the conference report because it au- tant change. In May of this year, 51 SMITH). thorizes a number of essential flood Senators voted for a bipartisan climate The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. control, navigation and ecosystem change amendment to the Water Re- SANDERS). Are there any other Sen- projects in Massachusetts and around sources Development Act that I offered ators in the Chamber desiring to vote? the Nation. We have a responsibility to along with Senators COLLINS, FEIN- The result was announced—yeas 81, safeguard our environment, and this GOLD, SANDERS, CARPER, REED, BIDEN, nays 12, as follows: legislation will help ensure that future WHITEHOUSE, CANTWELL, SNOWE and NELSON. Unfortunately, we needed 60 [Rollcall Vote No. 347 Leg.] generations will be able to take full ad- vantage of all that nature offers in votes to sustain the amendment. YEAS—81 Massachusetts. I remain deeply committed to ensur- Akaka Domenici Menendez The conference report directs the ing that the Corps, and all of our fed- Alexander Dorgan Mikulski eral agencies, plan for the future cli- Barrasso Durbin Murkowski Army Corps of Engineers to study the Baucus Feinstein Murray Gateway region of Lawrence to deter- mate that we know will be upon us, and Bayh Graham Nelson (FL) mine whether to fill abandoned chan- I urge my colleagues to join me in this Bennett Grassley Nelson (NE) nels along the Merrimack and Spicket fight. Bingaman Hagel Pryor Bond Harkin Reed Rivers. Filling the channels will allow It is clear that climate change is real Boxer Hatch Reid for the site to be redeveloped safely and that its affects must be factored Brown Hutchison Roberts and stop chemical leakage into the into our public policy. It is equally Bunning Inhofe Rockefeller clear that climate change will have Byrd Inouye Salazar Merrimack River. It also requires the Cantwell Isakson Sanders Army Corps to conduct a navigation very significant consequences for the Cardin Johnson Schumer study of the Merrimack River in Ha- safety and welfare of the American Carper Kennedy Shelby verhill to determine whether the agen- people, and people across the globe. Casey Klobuchar Snowe Chambliss Kohl Specter cy should proceed with dredging to im- The basic facts are these: At both Clinton Landrieu Stabenow prove navigation. poles and in nearly all points in be- Cochran Lautenberg Stevens The conference report modifies the tween, the temperature of the Earth’s Coleman Leahy Tester Collins Levin Thune coordinates of the Federal navigation surface is heating up at a frightening Conrad Lieberman Vitter channels in the Mystic River in Med- and potentially catastrophic rate. Corker Lincoln Voinovich ford and the Island End River in Chel- Temperatures have already increased Cornyn Lott Warner sea. The modifications will support wa- about .8 degrees Centigrade, about 1.4 Craig Lugar Webb Crapo Martinez Whitehouse terfront development by increasing ac- degrees Fahrenheit. Even if we could Dole McConnell Wyden cess to the channels. stop all greenhouse gas emissions

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.045 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 today, the current levels of carbon di- hour with blinders on. It is bound to entists say may become all too com- oxide in the atmosphere almost cer- lead to disaster. mon. tainly will produce additional tempera- The only climate change impact ad- I am committed to ensuring that fu- ture increases. Realistic projections of dressed by the Corps’ guidelines is sea ture Corps planning does not repeat the future warming range from 2 to 11.5° F. level rise. Under its internal planning mistakes of the past, and I urge my These are the findings of scientists guidelines, the Corps is supposed to colleagues to join me in this fight as and governments from across the take account of sea level rise when we consider future WRDA bills. Corps globe, as set forth in the most recent planning coastal projects. Those guide- project planning must account for the report of the IPCC, the Intergovern- lines do not require the Corps to assess realities of climate change, and protect mental Panel on Climate Change. That any other effects of global warming the natural systems that can buffer its report was written by some 600 sci- like increased hurricanes, storm affects.∑ entists and reviewed by 600 experts. It surges, and flooding. The Corps’ com- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- was then edited by officials from 154 pliance even with its internal require- ator from California. ment to look at sea level rise is spotty governments. The IPCC report con- Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I at best. For example, in proposing a cludes that it is ‘‘unequivocal that ask unanimous consent to speak with Earth’s climate is warming as it is now $133 million dredging project for Senator FEINGOLD in morning business Bolinas Lagoon in northern California, evident from the observations of in- for 15 minutes. creases in global averages of air and the Corps said it would not address sea I understand the other side is going ocean temperatures, widespread melt- level rise because it was too com- to object to a unanimous consent re- ing of snows and ice, and rising global plicated to do so. quest. I am going to ask if you would mean sea level.’’ As importantly, despite a statutory Scientists expect that the earth’s in- mandate to consider non structural ap- like me to do it upfront. Is that cor- creased temperatures will cause an in- proaches to project planning, the Corps rect? crease in extreme weather events, in- rarely recommends such approaches. Mr. ENSIGN. Yes. cluding more powerful storms, more This is true even where such ap- Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I always oblige the frequent floods, and extended droughts. proaches could provide the same or bet- Senator from Nevada. So if I have These changes threaten the health and ter project benefits. The Corps instead unanimous consent, that will be the safety of individuals and communities relies heavily on its traditional ap- order. around the globe. These changes also proaches of straight jacketing rivers The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there pose a significant threat to the econ- with levees and floodwalls. These types objection? omy, and will put added pressure on of projects sever critical connections Mr. ENSIGN. Reserving the right to water resources, increasing competi- between rivers and their wetlands and object, the Senator is going to ask for tion among agricultural, municipal, in- floodplains, and lead to significant unanimous consent on the bill? dustrial, and ecological uses. coastal and floodplain wetland losses. Mrs. FEINSTEIN. If I may finish. It The United States is extremely vul- These approaches have left coastal is my understanding that the Senator nerable to these threats. Coastal com- communities, like New Orleans, far has another commitment, and there- munities and habitats, especially along more vulnerable, and have exacerbated fore I am happy to accommodate him the gulf and Atlantic coasts, will be flood damages by inducing develop- in that regard. stressed by increasing sea level and ment in high risk, flood prone areas The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- more intense storms, both of which can and by increasing downstream flood- ator from Kentucky. lead to greater storm surges and flood- ing. Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I wish Nonstructural approaches should be ing. In the West, there will be more to ask, you are going to ask unanimous used whenever possible as they avoid flooding in the winter and early spring consent on H.R. 1255 also? followed by more water shortages dur- damage to healthy rivers, streams, Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I would be happy ing the summer. The Great Lakes and floodplains, and wetlands that can help to do that also. major river systems are expected to buffer the increased storms and flood- have lower water levels, exacerbating ing that we are seeing as a result of cli- Mr. BUNNING. I will wait then. existing challenges for managing water mate change. These systems protect Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I will do them both quality, navigation, recreation, hydro- against flooding and storm surge by first and then both Senators can ob- power generation, and water transfers. acting as natural sponges and basins ject, and then Senator FEINGOLD and I The Southwestern United States is al- that absorb flood waters and act as will have some time to speak, if that is ready in the midst of a drought that is barriers between storm surges and agreeable. projected to continue in the 21st cen- homes, buildings, and people. Healthy Mr. BUNNING. Thank you very tury and may cause the area to transi- streams and wetlands also help mini- much. tion to a more arid climate. mize the impacts of drought by re- The Corps of Engineers stands on the charging groundwater supplies and fil- f front lines of all of these threats to our tering pollutants from drinking water. water resources. They are our first re- Protecting these resources also pro- UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST— sponders in the fight against global vides a host of additional benefits, in- H.R. 1255 warming. Hurricane and flood protec- cluding providing critical habitat for tion for New Orleans, levees along the fish and wildlife, and exceptional rec- Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, levees reational opportunities. ask unanimous consent that the Sen- in Sacramento, CA, and ports up and Hurricane Katrina showed us the ate now proceed to Calendar No. 213, down our coasts, east and west are just tragic consequences of an intense H.R. 1255, Presidential Records Act a few of the many hundreds of Corps storm running head on into a badly de- Amendments of 2007; that the amend- projects that will feel the strain, im- graded wetlands system and faulty ment at the desk be considered and pact, and consequences of global cli- Corps project planning. Coastal wet- agreed to; the bill, as amended, be read mate change. lands lost to Corps projects were not three times, passed, and the motion to Corps planning currently does not available to buffer the Hurricane’s reconsider laid upon the table; that take climate change into account. To storm surge before it slammed into the any statements relating thereto appear the contrary, the Corps’ current plan- city. One Corps project, the Mississippi at the appropriate place in the RECORD ning guidelines are explicitly based on River Gulf Outlet, funneled the storm as if read, without intervening action the existence of a stable and unchang- surge into the heart of New Orleans. or debate. ing climate, and on the assumption Corps projects in New Orleans also The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there that flooding is not affected by climate were not designed to address the in- objection? trends or cycles. Continued reliance on creased sea level rise or land subsid- Mr. BUNNING. I object. these outdated guidelines is like driv- ence, and were not strong enough to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- ing down the highway at 80 miles an withstand the type of storm that sci- tion is heard.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.021 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11997 UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST— very willing to have this proposal con- a dedicated communications line. The S. 223 sidered in the Rules Committee in a FEC then prints the report, sends it to Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I prompt way. I would not like to hold a vendor in Fredericksburg, VA, where ask unanimous consent that the Sen- up passing this commonsense simple the information is keyed in by hand ate proceed to the immediate consider- filing bill, and I don’t want to debate and then transferred back to the FEC ation of Calendar No. 96, S. 223, a bill the merits at this time. This bill Sen- database at a cost of approximately to require Senate candidates to file ator ENSIGN is proposing is not ger- $250,000 to the taxpayers. Of course, designations, statements, and reports mane to the basic bill before us. It during this convoluted period, there is in electronic forms; that the com- would quite likely be a poison pill that no transparency. Therefore, the reports mittee-reported amendment be consid- would kill any chance of us getting the are not available for public scrutiny. ered and agreed to; the bill, as amend- electronically filed bill enacted into It is long past time to bring the Sen- ed, be read three times, passed, and the law at this time. ate into the modern era and to recog- motion to reconsider be laid upon the I reiterate the offer to hear it in a nize that transparency is a part of a table with no intervening action. prompt manner in the Rules Com- political process. I urge my colleagues The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there mittee, but I must object to it at this on both sides of the aisle to join me in objection? time. I do so object. ensuring timely access and disclosure Mr. ENSIGN. Reserving the right to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- of campaign finance activities to the object, I have no objection to the un- tion is heard. public. The sponsor of this bill, Senator derlying bill, but there is an issue that Mr. ENSIGN. I object to the original FEINGOLD, has joined me today to urge I had an amendment that I wish to add unanimous consent. passage of this bill. to the bill, if the Senator from Cali- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- Thanks to the enactment of S. 1, fornia would agree. We have a problem tion is heard on that as well. there is a new reason why we are doing going on in the Senate where there are Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I thank the Sen- this today. Section 512 of S. 1 now re- outside groups that are filing ethics ator. quires Members placing a hold on a bill complaints and they are doing it for Mr. President, on the original bill, to come forward and identify them- purely political reasons. which has just been objected to, twice selves. To the best of my knowledge, no I think we could fix that, at least in April, first on April 17 and then on Member has yet used this section to having transparency, to where if some- April 26, I rose to ask unanimous con- break through the anonymity of a Sen- one files an ethics complaint against a sent that the Senate take up and pass ate hold. I believe it is appropriate that Senator from the outside, they would S. 223. It was reported out by the Com- this provision be asserted now for the have to disclose their donors. So if this mittee on Rules on March 28. In the first time in connection with a bill is being done purely for political rea- first case Senator ALEXANDER objected that is all about transparency. I think sons, then we would find that out, be- on behalf of a Republican Senator. In it might be useful for me to read it, cause we could see who the donors are. the second, Senator BUNNING rose to since it is now the law: We need to protect the institution. We object on behalf of the Republican side. Section 512 (a) IN GENERAL.—the Majority need to protect individual Senators But to this date, no Republican Sen- and Minority Leaders of the Senate or their from purely politically motivated eth- ator has come forward to acknowledge designees shall recognize a notice of intent ics complaints that come against us placing a hold on this bill and say why of a Senator who is a member of their caucus to object proceeding to a measure or matter that sometimes we will have to run up the bill should not become law. only if the Senator (1) following the objec- legal bills and all kinds of other things. I wrote the minority leader on May tion to a unanimous consent to proceeding If it is done purely for partisan rea- 27 asking for his help in learning who to, and, or passage of, a measure or matter sons, we need to know that, and trans- was opposed to the bill and why. But no on their behalf, submits a notice of intent in parency is the best way to do it. If the Members have yet come forward to writing to the appropriate leader or their Senator from California would modify identify themselves. This is a simple, designee; and (2) not later than 6 session her unanimous consent request to re- direct bill with respect to trans- days after submission under paragraph (1), flect and to add this portion, that at a parency. It is an idea whose time has submits for inclusion in the CONGRESSIONAL long come. Everybody else does it, and RECORD and in the applicable calendar sec- time to be determined by the majority tion described in subsection (b) the following leader, in consultation with the Repub- so it is very hard for me to understand notice: ‘‘I, Senator [whoever it is] intend to lican leader, the Senate proceed to con- who could oppose this and what their object to proceeding to [name the bill], sideration of Calendar No. 96, S. 223, reason for opposing it could be. dated, for the following reasons.’’ under the following limitations: that At our hearing on March 14 and at So if 6 Senate days from now the hold the committee-reported amendment be our markup on March 28, it was clear on this bill will become evident, it has agreed to, and that the only other there was no public opposition to this been a rolling hold up until now, but amendment in order be an Ensign proposal. I believe it is time for the now, after 6 days, we must know who it amendment related to transparency Senate to act. The bill is entitled Sen- is. and disclosure, with 1 hour of debate ate Campaign Disclosure Parity Act. It I would believe if there are efforts to equally divided in the usual form on is sponsored by Senator FEINGOLD, who obfuscate this section of the law can- the bill and the amendment to run con- sits behind me in the Chamber, Senator didly, we should amend the law to pre- currently, and that following the use COCHRAN, and 30 other Senators. It vent that from happening. This is a or yielding back of the time, the Sen- would require that Senate campaign fi- simple bill. Everybody is for it. Nobody ate proceed to a vote in relation to the nance reports be filed electronically wants to say who is against it. I think Ensign amendment, and that the bill, rather than in paper format. that should become apparent. I believe as amended, then be read a third time, Currently House candidates, Presi- Senator FEINGOLD and I hope Senator and the Senate proceed to a vote on dential candidates, political action COCHRAN, the cosponsor of the bill—and passage of the bill, with no intervening committees, and party committees are they have dozens of cosponsors—would action or debate. Would the Senator all required to file electronically. But agree. modify her request? Senators, Senate candidates, author- I wish to acknowledge Senator FEIN- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ized campaign committees of Senators, GOLD, if I may, and I yield the remain- objection? and the Democratic and Republican der of my time to him and also thank Mrs. FEINSTEIN. If I may, reserving Senate campaign committees are ex- him for his leadership on this issue. the right to object, I wish to make a empted. So we operate the Senate sepa- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- comment or two, if I might. This pro- rately from everybody else. ator from Wisconsin. posal would require all organizations Is this practical? The answer is no. It Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I, of that filed ethics complaints to publicly is cumbersome. Paper copies of disclo- course, thank the Senator from Cali- disclose any individual or entity that sure reports are filed with the Senate fornia, who is chair of the key com- has donated $5,000 or more to that or- Office of Public Records. They scan mittee on this bill, for her persistence ganization. If the good Senator from them. They make an electronic copy, in trying to get this bill through the Nevada would be willing, I would be and they send the copy to the FEC on Senate. We came to the floor twice this

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.049 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S11998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 spring to try to get consent to pass the I thank the chairman of the com- Contrast that with the war in Iraq. Senate Campaign Disclosure Parity mittee, the Senator from California. I Mr. President, $7 billion a year, to Act. Each time an objection was made will say again, it looks as though we cover 4 million uninsured children in on behalf of an unidentified Republican made a little bit of progress. No longer this country, 75,000 in my State of Senator. Yet no Senator had come to is there a secret hold on the bill. In- Ohio—$7 billion a year—contrast that us to let us know what his or her objec- stead, the Senator from Nevada has with $2.5 billion a week on the war in tion to the bill is. The source of the ob- made it plain he is the one holding up Iraq. Mr. President, $7 billion a year; jection apparently didn’t want to be the bill by insisting on offering an un- $2.5 billion a week. Yet the President identified, but when the President related amendment. That is unfortu- says that is too much to take care of 4 signed the Honest Leadership and Open nate, but at least we know what we are million children. Government Act last week, as Senator dealing with. I hope in the days ahead Uninsured children do not have the FEINSTEIN pointed out, S. 1, fortu- we will be able to prevail on him to luxury of time. They cannot will them- nately, secret holds become a thing of change his approach. selves to remain healthy until indi- the past, and I am very proud to have There are some bills where it is sim- vidual insurance becomes more afford- been deeply involved with passage of ply not appropriate to seek to add ex- able or employer-sponsored coverage that legislation. So if an objection was traneous and controversial amend- stops eroding or the President becomes lodged today, the objecting Senator ments. The amendment he has pro- more pragmatic. It is up to this body, would have had to come forward in 6 posed is surely a poison pill for this this week, to take action. session days. bill, and we need to get this bill in In Ohio, the Demko family can tell As far as I know, this was going to be place soon so these requirements of dis- you why they value the Children’s the first test of the new rule on secret closure will apply during the 2008 elec- Health Insurance Program. Emily holds, and I was looking forward to tion season. Demko, 3 years old, has Down Syn- learning who the real objector was, as Once again, I truly thank the Sen- drome. Because of her condition, she is the rule requires, if an objection was ator from California, and I look for- automatically denied private health made on behalf of an unidentified Sen- ward to getting this bill passed in the coverage because Down Syndrome is ator. But now it appears that the Sen- near future. considered a preexisting condition. ator from Nevada has actually identi- I yield the floor. Emily was covered by the Children’s fied himself as the objector to the bill, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Health Insurance Program until March so we know what is going on here. ator from Ohio. 31 of this year. Under the Children’s I believe the new provision under the Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask Health Insurance Program, Emily was new law is the reason this individual unanimous consent to speak as in able to receive the therapy she needed identified himself. I don’t think that morning business. to reach all of her developmental mile- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without would have happened had it not been stones in an age-appropriate way. But objection, it is so ordered. in March, Emily was cut off from this for the positive deterrent effect this The Senator from Ohio. new legislation has. Senator FEINSTEIN program because her father made $113 and I can cite this as the first time this f too much per month for the family to was successfully forced in the case of a CHIP qualify. secret hold. Her father is self-employed. Her Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, the Chil- mother stays at home to care for her. This underlying bill about disclosure, dren’s Health Insurance Program is a which I authored along with others, is Without health insurance, the bills for sound investment. It protects our chil- Emily’s care total $3,700 per month, completely noncontroversial. This sim- dren. It fosters their development. It ply put Senate campaigns under the which, of course, is impossible for the helps them thrive. Children without Demkos to pay. same obligation to file their reports health insurance are children taken to electronically that the House and Pres- The Demkos’ family income falls emergency rooms instead of doctors’ within the range of 250 and 300 percent idential campaigns have been forced to offices. They are children whose care is do for years. There is simply no reason of poverty. Emily has now been with- delayed and delayed, until simple sick- out health insurance for 6 months. that the information in Senate cam- ness becomes serious illness. They are paign finance reports should remain Governor Strickland and the Repub- children who need our attention, our lican legislature, bipartisanly, raised less accessible to the public than any compassion, our help. the threshold for the Children’s Health other campaign finance reports. We are The President has said he opposes Insurance Program in Ohio if the Feds now at 41 bipartisan cosponsors. As the this legislation because philosophically go along, if the President signs our bill, Senator from California pointed out, he thinks children should be covered by to 300 percent of poverty—not for fami- not a single concern about the bill was private insurance, not by the Chil- lies living in the lap of luxury, but heard in the Rules Committee. The bill dren’s Health Insurance Program. It families such as the Demkos who have passed by voice vote, and no one has does not matter whether these children seen their daughter cut off from her come to us with any concerns about it in reality should be covered by private health insurance because of a pre- at all. So the time has come to get it insurance. What matters is that these existing condition and falling out of done. The Senator from Nevada has children are not covered by private in- eligibility because her father makes made an alternative proposal to bring surance. Simply, they are not covered $100 too much per month. up the bill but to make an amendment at all. So far, Emily is not regressing, but in order. The amendment he wants to By lodging a veto threat against this there is that possibility with Down offer, however, has nothing to do with bill, the President is saying that if pri- Syndrome. Her parents cannot afford this bill. Indeed, it is a very controver- vate insurers have not made room for the insurance for themselves either. sial proposal to require groups that file low-income children, then we should But more than anything, they want to ethics complaints to disclose their do- not make room for them either. That is see 3-year-old Emily covered. They nors. I am sure the charitable and ad- not just faulty logic, it is faulty ethics. worry about what will happen to her vocacy organizations will find this At the same time, the President argues without the therapy she needs. She amendment quite controversial. It that the Children’s Health Insurance does not qualify for any other pro- should be referred to the appropriate Program is too expensive. grams despite her disability. committee and given very searching We are suggesting—bipartisanly, in I wish President Bush would talk to study before it is offered on the floor. both Houses, with a program that the Demko family, would keep them in As the Senator from California said, it started 10 years ago, with a Democratic mind as he considers whether to sign would certainly be a poison pill for the President, Bill Clinton, a Republican the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- underlying bill, which thus far has had House, a Republican Senate; a bipar- gram. I hope he wants to make life bet- no public opposition whatsoever. So I tisan initiative from 10 years ago—we ter, not harder, for this hard-working am pleased the Senator from California are suggesting an increase of $7 billion family and help Emily to thrive. objected. We are happy to make that a year over the next 5 years—$35 bil- The Children’s Health Insurance Pro- objection very public. lion. gram will expire September 30 unless

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.050 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S11999 the President signs this bill. The House mental illness bought a gun, walked but our bill will take a substantial step and Senate have found a compromise into Our Lady of Peace Church, killed toward making the system better and that works for both parties. The Father Lawrence Penzes and a long- keeping our streets and schools safer. version we passed in the Senate passed time parishioner, Eileen Tosner. I yield the floor. with 68 votes, more than enough to So back then we introduced a bill to f get money to the States to help them override a veto. The compromise VOTE EXPLANATION version is very much like the Senate get important records—on mental ill- version, even though some of us would ness, convictions, things such as that— Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, I was like to see us do a bit more. into the NICS system. But because of unable to cast a vote on Friday, Sep- The compromise would cover 4 mil- the climate of mistrust on all sides of tember 21, on amendment No. 2898 to lion American children, as I said, 75,000 the gun issue, that bill was never the Defense authorization bill. I have of them living in my State of Ohio. passed into law. I believe it passed the voted against similar measures in the These children did not choose to be un- House once. I believe it passed the Sen- past, and had I been available to vote insured. They are not uninsured be- ate once. But the two never hooked up. on Friday, I would have again voted cause their families walked away from Now, here we are again. It saddens against this attempt to direct a pre- private insurance. Understand, most of me that it has taken this long—it has cipitous withdrawal of U.S. troops from the children in the Children’s Health been years since Our Lady of Peace; it Iraq. Insurance Program are sons and daugh- has been 5 months since Virginia The terms of this amendment would ters of working parents, parents who Tech—to move the debate forward and have required U.S. troops to begin leav- are working hard, playing by the rules, try to get something done about safety ing Iraq within 90 days of the Defense simply not making enough money to on our streets and college campuses. authorization bill’s enactment and buy private insurance, and their em- Now we are so close. The House has complete that withdrawal within 9 ployers are not providing that insur- passed similar legislation that went months. While I understand public ance. through with the support of both the frustration with the war, I believe a The fact is, private insurance too NRA and the Brady Campaign. That precipitous and arbitrary withdrawal often steers clear of too many working does not happen too often. As you mandated by Congress is not a wise so- families in Akron and Toledo and know, when the NRA and I agree on an lution to the situation in Iraq. I cannot Zanesville and Marion and Lima and issue, there is a good chance some good support attempts to set an arbitrary Marietta. These families are uninsured can come of it. deadline for withdrawing our forces because they have no choice. Their We already have a comprehensive from Iraq, which endangers our troops, children have no choice. But we have a background check system, but since our safety at home and the overall sta- choice. We can choose to help them. the system relies on up-to-date com- bility of Iraq and the Middle East. Let’s do it. puter searches to produce fast results, I believe our military commanders Thank you, Mr. President. it is only as good as the automated in- should determine how and when our The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- formation the States provide. That is troops begin leaving Iraq based on con- ator from New York. why the focus of the bill is to get more ditions on the ground. General Petraeus announced this month that f records into the system. So under the bill, States that opt into the system he would be able to begin withdrawing NICS IMPROVEMENT ACT AND that do well will be rewarded with U.S. forces from Iraq. I believe Con- LEAHY-SCHUMER AMENDMENT grants and financial incentives. States gress should rely on the guidance and Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I rise that do not will be punished. leadership of General Petraeus and our to speak about H.R. 2640—it is called We have modified that so smaller other commanders on the ground to de- the NICS Improvement Act—and the States that have more difficulty keep- termine how best to eventually bring Leahy-Schumer amendment. ing the records because they have our troops home from Iraq. I have worked long and hard on this smaller budgets will not be penalized. f bill. It has been a long time in coming. Senator LEAHY correctly insisted that CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE Now it is time to get it passed. To put be done to protect his State of PROGRAM it simply, the young man who was be- Vermont. But it affects smaller States Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, the Rev- hind the great tragedy at Virginia as well. The amendments Senator erend Martin Luther King, Jr., wrote: Tech had a long history of mental ill- LEAHY has suggested and been added to ‘‘The time is always ripe to do right.’’ ness but still fell through the cracks of this bill, I believe, improve it without This week, the time is ripe to do our checking systems and bought guns getting any of our delicately balanced right by America’s children. and ammunition. coalition out of kilter in any way. So I Last Friday, my colleagues and I un- It is against the law for someone thank Senator LEAHY for doing that. veiled a strong, bicameral agreement with serious mental illness to buy a Perhaps the most important thing I to renew and improve the Children’s gun. When the system fails, we are all can say about this bill is it is all about Health Insurance Program. less safe. This bill will get desperately public safety. It is all about enforcing CHIP covers kids whose parents don’t needed resources to the States to help the laws on the books. This is not—and qualify for Medicaid, but who cannot improve our Federal background check this is important—is not a gun control afford costly private insurance. process. This bill will make it harder bill. No lawful gun owners are going to CHIP works to get health coverage to for someone to get lost in the system. have their guns taken away. Nobody uninsured kids in America’s working We cannot wait any longer before who should be allowed to get a gun will families. passing this commonsense piece of leg- have his or her rights restricted. The agreement we reached to renew islation. We cannot sit back and watch The bill targets only those records CHIP will make sure that more than another Virginia Tech shooting happen that are supposed to be in the system 61⁄2 million children with health cov- without doing everything we can to already—records that demonstrate erage today will keep that coverage. stop it. whether someone is seriously mentally The agreement we reached will make I have worked hard on this bill for ill, a felon, or so on. What Virginia sure that millions more low-income, more than a decade and the back- Tech showed us is when the back- uninsured American children get a ground check system to which it is ground check system fails, the con- healthy start. added. In 2002, Representative CAROLYN sequences can be terribly tragic. It is a good agreement. It is fiscally MCCARTHY and I introduced legislation Congresswoman CAROLYN MCCARTHY responsible. It has broad support across similar to what I am discussing today. and I saw that in Long Island and, of the Congress. And most importantly, it It was in response to another senseless course, the Nation saw it at Virginia puts children first. shooting. This one was at Our Lady of Tech. Nothing can bring back the 33 In August, 68 Senators voted for Peace Church, in our State, in young people who died last April, and nearly the exact same $35 billion agree- Lynbrook, on Long Island. That was we do not know if we can prevent an- ment to renew and improve the Chil- where someone with a long history of other Virginia Tech from happening, dren’s Health Insurance Program. They

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.052 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 voted to reach millions more uninsured HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES life was cut short, he continues to in- children in low-income, working fami- STAFF SERGEANT ROBB ROLFING spire all those who knew him. Our Na- lies. Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I wish tion owes him a debt of gratitude, and This week, Senators can stand up for to pay tribute to SSG Robb Rolfing and the best way to honor his life is to kids again. his heroic service to our country. He emulate his commitment to our coun- I know that there is pressure from was killed in action on June 30, 2007, by try. the White House. The White House is enemy small arms fire while on a mis- Mr. President, I join with all South asking Senators to turn away this sion near Baghdad. Robb was a member Dakotans in expressing my deepest time. of the elite Green Berets as a special sympathy to the family of SSG Robb But the President is endangering forces engineer to Bravo Company, 2nd Rolfing. He will be missed, but his serv- children when he distorts what this bill Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group, ice to our Nation will never be forgot- does. The President is endangering Airborne, in Fort Carson, CO. Robb was ten. children when he repeats his veto on his second tour of duty when he was f killed. threats. ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS Moreover, the agreement does ex- Robb Lura Rolfing was born on De- actly what the President says it cember 4, 1977, to Rex and Margie Rolfing in Sioux Falls, SD. He grew up should. 2007 DAVIDSON FELLOWS AWARD admiring ‘‘MacGyver,’’ prompting him The agreement will target the Chil- to start carrying duct tape everywhere ∑ Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, it is dren’s Health Insurance Program to- he went. with great admiration that today I rec- ward the lowest-income eligible chil- Before Robb became a soldier, he at- ognize some of the most intelligent, dren. It will give States bonus funding tended Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, driven young minds in this country. I for enrolling the poorest kids for NY, majored in physics and astronomy, would like to acknowledge the 17 re- health care. And it will reduce Federal and played soccer. During his time as cipients of the 2007 Davidson Fellows funding for children in higher-income captain on the Vassar soccer team, he Award, a scholarship awarded to excep- families. took the team to Vassar’s first ever tional students to assist them in fur- The agreement will not raise the eli- NCAA tournament postseason playoff, thering their education. These scholar- gibility level for CHIP. That will still in any sport, where he scored the win- ships are given by the Davidson Insti- be for the administration and the ning goal in the first round of games. tute for Talent Development to inspir- States to decide. That is how the CHIP To further demonstrate his talent as a ing individuals under the age of 18 who law was written in 1997, by a Repub- soccer player, he was named to the have completed academically rigorous lican-led Congress. We do not change NSCAA/Adidas All-Region Team and projects that demonstrate a potential that. the All–New York Team. A Vassar bas- to make a significant, positive con- Our goal is to reach more of the low- ketball coach told the Rolfing family tribution to society. This year’s recipi- income, uninsured children who are al- that he would often see Robb prac- ents achieved academic excellence in ready eligible for CHIP today. Our goal ticing soccer out on the field by him- the areas of science, literature, mathe- is to keep the program for kids. self in the morning and after regular matics, technology, and music. As I That is why our agreement will curb scheduled practices. The coach said, ‘‘If read through the accomplishments coverage of adults in CHIP. I had 5 Robb’s we would win every these young minds have achieved, I can game because of the determination and It will improve the kids’ coverage in assure you that this year’s recipients focus he showed.’’ After college, he so many ways, from outreach for mi- are more than deserving of such an went to work in field management at nority communities to dental care for honor. I would like to take a few mo- Rollins College in Winter Park, FL, ments to describe what each recipient every child who enrolls. and then moved on to coach soccer at In addition, a straight extension of has accomplished. Currey College in Boston. Richard Alt II, a 17-year-old from CHIP at current funding, or at the Robb’s mom Margie says that she has Fredericksburg, VA, has compared President’s cut-rate budget proposal, started a list called ‘‘Amazing Robb.’’ three weather forecasting methods to will cause thousands, even millions of This list is a compilation of stories, formulate a brandnew forecasting children to lose their health coverage. thoughts, and recollections that the method. He has done this through de- Many families would have no choice family has gathered from family and tailed interpretation and analysis of at all to get health care for their kids. friends of Robb. Margie recalls one par- They would have no way to pay the ticular moment when Robb’s sister, varying aspects of climatology. doctor. They would have no way to buy Tiffany, was about to graduate from Through his findings, Richard has cre- the medicine. high school. The family thought that ated a universal process that allows meteorologists to compile more accu- But CHIP can get kids in working he was still overseas during his first rate forecast data and help public offi- families the doctor’s visits and medi- tour, but he showed up at home wear- cials prepare seasonal response plans cines that they need when they’re sick. ing a blanket of Tiffany’s college over for various weather patterns. CHIP can get them the checkups that his head just standing at the door. The Another 17-year-old from Vienna, they need to stay well. only way Tiffany recognized it was VA, Christina Beasley has explored In 10 years, the Children’s Health In- Robb was because of his shoes—he had them duct taped because he refused to human perception and beauty in her surance Program has reduced the num- portfolio, ‘‘An Experiment in Free ber of low-income children living with- buy new shoes as the ones with duct tape were far too comfortable to throw Speech.’’ This young lady has com- out health insurance by one-third. pared emotion in famous literary And 82 percent of Americans want away. Robb always wanted something more works to her own pieces of writing to Congress to cover more low-income, out of the life he was given. After the reveal the tucked away beauty of com- uninsured kids with CHIP. events of September 11, 2001, Robb’s mon occurrences. She has realized This week, Congress is heeding the calling to help serve his country was through careful research and interpre- call. This week, we will choose to do jolted into action and he joined the tation that a person must make the right by America’s kids. Army in January of 2003. He completed connection between emotion and ra- The President should look beyond his basic training at Fort Benning, GA, tionality to fully understand the intri- politics. The President should look to and was assigned to the 101st Airborne cacies of the human mind. the faces of America’s uninsured chil- at Fort Campbell, KY. Shortly after re- Sixteen-year-old Nate Bottman of dren. turning from his first tour, he qualified Seattle, WA has found an array of solu- The President should see that the and was accepted into the special tions to the Nonlinear Schrodinger time is ripe for him to do right, as well. forces unit where he became a Green Equation, NLS, that shows the pattern I thank my colleagues, and urge their Beret. of waves in fluids and plasmas that support for America’s children this Robb’s good will and service touched have sharp boundaries and dissipation. week. the lives of many people. Although his Nate has developed a method of finding

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.003 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S12001 solutions to integrable equations and that each generation needs its musi- have come to understand the human has discovered that stationary solu- cians, composers, and performers that condition and its variety of responses tions of the NLS are spectrally stable. create artistic conventions that grow to death and loss. His work will help in many areas of and mature with the times. This young A 15-year-old from Norristown, PA, math and science, including but not man just graduated from the Juilliard Janet Song has created a urine test to limited to the study of Bose-Einstein Pre-College Division and is a student detect the early signs of cancer. She condensates and plasma physics. at the Perlman Music Program. He has has been able to isolate short cir- A young woman from Davis, CA, Al- performed in such prestigious places as culatory DNA found in urine to iden- exandra Courtis, has developed an in- Carnegie Hall in New York and the tify tumor sites. Janet’s new method novative method used in areas such as Kennedy Center right here in Wash- has made cancer screening less un- cancer research to track different bio- ington, DC. pleasant, less invasive, and cheaper logical functions via luminescent sil- Fifteen-year-old Shannon Lee of than current methods. icon nanorods and quantum dots. At Plano, TX, is another very talented Columbia, SC, native Graham Van just 17, she has developed a less expen- musician who believes that music is a Schaik has researched pyrethroids that sive method of using sodium silicide cornerstone of communication, which are found in common household and and ammonium bromide that has made she has shown through her violin port- garden pesticides. He even discovered it possible to produce silicon nanopar- folio, ‘‘Creating a Musical Bond.’’ that pyrethroids are used in over 30 ticles on a larger scale. Alexandra’s ac- Shannon specifically enjoys keeping commercial crops and have had the ef- complishment is a significant advance- tradition alive by playing a variety of fect of cellular proliferation in breast ment in targeting cancerous tumors distinguished composers to captivate cells, a sign of cancer and neurite re- and individual cells. her audiences. She earned the silver tractions in neurons which is a sign of Billy Dorminy, a 15-year-old from medal at the Stulberg International neurodegenerative disease. McDonough, GA, has invented a secure String Competition, and she received a Nora Xu, a 17-year-old from method of message encryption using scholarship from the Texas Commis- Naperville, IL, has developed a dif- reduced redundancy representations of sion on the Arts, where she also per- ferent method of determining the crys- improper fractional bases. This new formed as a soloist in the Dallas Sym- tal structure of nanocrystalline super- method of encryption takes up far less phony. lattice thin films. Using a three dimen- computer memory while also utilizing Danielle Lent, a 17-year-old from sional model of the nanocrystalline confusion and diffusion to keep a mes- Cedarhurst, NY, has developed an inno- superlattice, she found that x-ray scat- sage hidden. Billy’s method allows for vative, cost-effective, and earth-friend- tering pattern intensities can be ap- the placement of a second undetectable ly method of recycling plastics. Her plied to molecules and atoms. Her work encrypted message in the body of the process involves the exposure of plastic has potential in the area of optical and first, opening the door for further ad- polymers to supercritical carbon diox- electron microscopes and the ability to vancement in the area of message ide, creating a plastic that has equal or deliver drugs to cancerous tumors. encryption. superior properties in comparison to Mr. President, these are 17 very tal- Another 15-year-old, Yale Fan, from the original. Miss Lent’s discovery has ented, hard-working, motivated young Beaverton, OR, has furthered the bi- allowed for this entire process to occur men and women who are making ad- nary quantum computational Deutsch- without releasing harmful toxins while vances in music, science, literature, Jozsa and Grover algorithms to create also reducing carbon dioxide emissions. mathematics, and technology for the multivalued logic problems. These two A seventeen-year-old young woman betterment of society. I would like to algorithms were among the first in the from Wesley Chapel, FL, Celeste thank all these young people for their creation of a quantum computer. His Lipkes, has transfixed her readers by willingness to seek out new horizons work is relevant in many areas includ- exploring themes of disease, discovery, and make the world a better place. I ing the vision systems in computers, and faith in, ‘‘Room to Pace.’’ Her would also like to personally thank the various economic issues, and aspects portfolio includes the juxtaposition of Davidson Institute for their support of related to space, including transpor- poetry that is amusing, intense, uplift- these young individuals. In an ever- tation, scheduling, and manufacturing. ing, and downright enjoyable with per- changing world, it is the young who Madhavi Gavini, a 17-year-old from sonal essays on physical loss and the show hope for the future. I can hon- Starkville, MS, has developed an inno- oddities of the human family, and fi- estly say, after learning about every vative method to restrict the aug- nally critical essays analyzing other one of these kids, that I have great mentation of biofilm-forming patho- poetry. Through her work, Celeste hope for the future.∑ gens. For example, Pseudomonas, a wants to inspire her audience to take f pathogen that is resistant to many notice of the details of life. drugs, produces a biofilm that protects Yuqing Meng, a 16-year-old from THE DEATH OF DR. ALVIN SMITH it from antibiotics. This young wom- Madison, NJ, feels privileged to con- ∑ Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, I ask to an’s progress was done through the tribute to the art of classical music, have printed in the RECORD an article combination of traditional Indian med- which he has shown through his piano on the death of Dr. Alvin Smith, who icine and molecular biology that will portfolio, ‘‘Reviving Classical Music passed away last week at the age of 75. be used to treat millions dealing with Through Individualism.’’ When he was The son of sharecroppers, he went on to Pseudomonas infections. just 7 years old, Yuqing was one of the become a noted physician who worked A 17-year-old from Bridgewater, NJ, youngest candidates ever to be accept- throughout his life to increase access Michael Harwick wrote a piece entitled ed to the Juilliard School Pre-College to the health care system, an issue ‘‘Highways: The Road as Existence’’ Division, where he later went on to win that is near and dear to my heart. My that utilized prose, poetry, and dia- the Junior and Senior Concerto Com- condolences go out to his wife Ann, his logue to depict relationships that oscil- petitions. In 2007, he also received the three son, and his six grandchildren. late between isolation and connection. Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist award. The article follows. Michael consistently astounds the Katherine Orazem, a 17-year-old from [From newsjournalonline.com, Sept. 19, 2007] reader with a unique voice filled with Ames, in my home State of Iowa, has NOTED AREA PHYSICIAN DIES WITH FAMILY AT streams of symbolic and linguistic written a collection of sonnets, short SIDE meaning. Through his choice of short stories, and essays entitled ‘‘After Ele- (By Anne Geggis) dialog and extravagant descriptions of gies’’ that delves into the human issue Dr. Alvin Smith devoted his life to saving a visual world, he has shown the lack of death and examines those who have the lives of his patients and curing the ills of of dialog in a world filled with noise. gone through loss. She looks at these the health-care system. Todd Kramer, a 17-year-old from Port issues from many perspectives, includ- Smith, 75, died Tuesday morning at his Or- mond Beach home. His family was at his Jefferson, NY, produced a portfolio ing the loss a widow must face, the de- side. that followed his growth as a composer nial of his wife’s death by a husband, The son of Alabama sharecroppers over- since he was 12 entitled ‘‘Finding My and the pain an apostate feels who has came meager beginnings to become one of Voice Through Music.’’ He believes lost her faith. Through her work, we the most respected physicians in the area.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G24SE6.005 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12002 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 The 1952 Mainland High School graduate Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach. Services will months for the State Children’s Health In- was perhaps best known to the community be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Central Baptist surance Program (SCHIP) and for other pur- as the director of the Herbert D. Kerman Re- Church. A private military burial will be poses; to the Committee on Finance. ∑ gional Oncology Center at Halifax Health next week. f Medical Center and as the owner of Angell & f Phelps Chocolate Factory that his son, Alvin SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND Jr., now runs. MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE SENATE RESOLUTIONS In addition, he felt a strong pull toward At 2:22 p.m., a message from the The following concurrent resolutions changing the system so more people had ac- House of Representatives, delivered by cess to medical care, serving as president of and Senate resolutions were read, and the Volusia County Medical Society and the Ms. Niland, one of its reading clerks, referred (or acted upon), as indicated: Florida Medical Association. announced that the House has passed By Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mrs. Smith was a self-confessed truant who the following bill, in which it requests FEINSTEIN, and Mr. KYL): went to fifth grade for only one day and the concurrence of the Senate: S. Res. 326. A resolution supporting the didn’t come back to school for a year. He H.R. 2881. An act to amend title 49, United goals and ideals of a National Day of Re- quit high school in 10th grade and finally States Code, to authorize appropriations for membrance for Murder Victims; to the Com- graduated from Mainland at the age of 21. the Federal Aviation Administration for fis- mittee on the Judiciary. But then he went on to become the first col- cal years 2008 through 2011, to improve avia- By Mrs. DOLE (for herself and Mr. lege graduate in his family, earning a biol- tion safety and capacity, to provide stable KENNEDY): ogy degree from the be- funding for the national aviation system, S. Res. 327. A resolution recognizing the fore getting his doctorate from the Univer- and for other purposes. 218th anniversary of the United States Mar- sity of Miami. shals Service; to the Committee on the Judi- f It was as president of the Florida Medical ciary. Association in the 1990s, however, that ENROLLED BILL SIGNED By Mr. REID (for Mr. BIDEN (for him- Smith achieved one of his most enduring ac- The message also announced that the self, Mr. LUGAR, and Mr. SUNUNU)): complishments: convincing then-Gov. S. Res. 328. A resolution condemning the Lawton Chiles to form an autonomous state Speaker has signed the following en- assassination on September 19, 2007, of Department of Health. During that time, he rolled bill: Antoine Ghanem, a member of the Par- also lobbied for legislation allowing the H.R. 3528. An act to provide authority to liament of Lebanon who opposed Syrian in- state of Florida to sue the tobacco industry the Peace Corps to provide separation pay terference in Lebanon; considered and agreed to recover Medicaid costs. for host country resident personal services to. ‘‘He wanted to make sure that no patient contractors of the Peace Corps. By Mr. DURBIN (for himself and Mr. in Florida went without the best health care The enrolled bill was subsequently OBAMA): they needed, regardless of their ability to signed by the President pro tempore S. Res. 329. A resolution congratulating pay,’’ said Dr. Carl ‘‘Rick’’ Lentz, also a past Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as president of the Florida Medical Association (Mr. BYRD). it celebrates its 50th anniversary; considered and a Daytona Beach surgeon. f and agreed to. His voice choking, Lentz recalled how f Smith recently handed him his Florida Med- MEASURES PLACED ON THE ical Association president’s pin because CALENDAR ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS Lentz never got one during his term as presi- The following bill was read the first S. 22 dent. and second times by unanimous con- At the request of Mr. WEBB, the name ‘‘He’s a wonderful human being who’s been sent, and placed on the calendar: a blessing to the whole world,’’ Lentz said. of the Senator from Maine (Ms. COL- ‘‘There’s not a patient who has been with H.R. 2881. An act to amend title 49, United LINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. 22, him that doesn’t love him. Anytime you call States Code, to authorize appropriations for a bill to amend title 38, United States on Al, he’s there for you.’’ the Federal Aviation Administration for fis- cal years 2008 through 2011, to improve avia- Code, to establish a program of edu- Former County Councilman, local talk cational assistance for members of the show radio host and gadfly Big John recalled tion safety and capacity, to provide stable meeting Smith as an ‘‘intern’’ at Halifax funding for the national aviation system, Armed Forces who serve in the Armed Health Medical Center in which community and for other purposes. Forces after September 11, 2001, and for members were invited to spend time with f other purposes. doctors to learn about the hospital’s func- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES S. 502 tions. At the request of Mr. CRAPO, the ‘‘He was a great guy—great personality,’’ The following reports of committees name of the Senator from Tennessee John said. were submitted: Smith’s boyhood longing for chocolates he (Mr. ALEXANDER) was added as a co- By Mr. BAUCUS, from the Committee on sponsor of S. 502, a bill to repeal the couldn’t afford in the window at Angell & Finance, without amendment: Phelps gave way to occasional indulgence. H.J. Res. 43. A joint resolution increasing sunset on the reduction of capital gains When the chocolate factory came up for sale, the statutory limit on the public debt (Rept. rates for individuals and on the tax- he bought it to make sure all his favorite No. 110–184). ation of dividends of individuals at cap- recipes stayed the same. ital gains rates. Daytona Beach Mayor Glenn Ritchey f S. 507 served with him on the Halifax Community EXECUTIVE REPORT OF At the request of Mr. CONRAD, the Health System Board. COMMITTEE ‘‘I have known him to be a great commu- name of the Senator from Iowa (Mr. nity servant, as well as a wonderful doctor The following executive report of a HARKIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. who has meant so much to our area,’’ nomination was submitted: 507, a bill to amend title XVIII of the Ritchey said. ‘‘He’ll be greatly missed.’’ By Mr. ROCKEFELLER for the Select Social Security Act to provide for re- Smith served in the U.S. Army, retiring as Committee on Intelligence. Donald M. Kerr, imbursement of certified midwife serv- a major, and from the U.S. Army Reserves as of Virginia, to be Principal Deputy Director ices and to provide for more equitable a lieutenant colonel. He was active in civic of National Intelligence. organizations, ranging from the Boy Scouts reimbursement rates for certified to the People to Prevent Nuclear War. He (Nominations without an asterisk nurse-midwife services. were reported with the recommenda- served on boards including the United Way, S. 597 tion that they be confirmed.) Hospice of Volusia/Flagler and A Child’s At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the Place. f ‘‘Alvin’s one of the really good guys,’’ said name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. John E. Evans, a former TV personality and INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND NELSON) was added as a cosponsor of S. spokesman for what was then called Halifax JOINT RESOLUTIONS 597, a bill to extend the special postage Community Health System. The following bills and joint resolu- stamp for breast cancer research for 2 Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Ann; tions were introduced, read the first years. three sons, Alvin Jr., Ormond Beach, and S. 773 Chuck and Mike, both of Palm Coast; a sis- and second times by unanimous con- ter, Ginny Little, Ormond Beach; and six sent, and referred as indicated: At the request of Mr. WARNER, the grandchildren. By Mr. LOTT: name of the Senator from Connecticut Viewing will be from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday at S. 2086. A bill to amend title XXI of the So- (Mr. LIEBERMAN) was added as a co- the social hall at Central Baptist Church, 142 cial Security Act to extend funding for 18 sponsor of S. 773, a bill to amend the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.018 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S12003 Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow the recommendations of the Federal S. 2004 Federal civilian and military retirees Communications Commission report to At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the to pay health insurance premiums on a the Congress regarding low-power FM name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. pretax basis and to allow a deduction service. OBAMA) was added as a cosponsor of S. for TRICARE supplemental premiums. S. 1743 2004, a bill to amend title 38, United S. 881 At the request of Mr. HATCH, the States Code, to establish epilepsy cen- At the request of Mrs. LINCOLN, the names of the Senator from Georgia ters of excellence in the Veterans name of the Senator from Tennessee (Mr. ISAKSON), the Senator from South Health Administration of the Depart- (Mr. ALEXANDER) was added as a co- Dakota (Mr. JOHNSON) and the Senator ment of Veterans Affairs, and for other sponsor of S. 881, a bill to amend the from Indiana (Mr. BAYH) were added as purposes. Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend cosponsors of S. 1743, a bill to amend S. 2020 and modify the railroad track mainte- the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to re- At the request of Mr. LUGAR, the nance credit. peal the dollar limitation on contribu- name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. S. 958 tions to funeral trusts. INOUYE) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the S. 1944 2020, a bill to reauthorize the Tropical name of the Senator from Rhode Island At the request of Mr. LAUTENBERG, Forest Conservation Act of 1998 (Mr. REED) was added as a cosponsor of the name of the Senator from Michigan through fiscal year 2010, to rename the S. 958, a bill to establish an adolescent (Mr. LEVIN) was added as a cosponsor of Tropical Forest Conservation Act of literacy program. S. 1944, a bill to provide justice for vic- 1998 as the ‘‘Tropical Forest and Coral S. 961 tims of state-sponsored terrorism. Conservation Act of 2007’’, and for At the request of Mr. NELSON of Ne- S. 1951 other purposes. braska, the name of the Senator from At the request of Mr. BAUCUS, the S. 2044 New Mexico (Mr. DOMENICI) was added names of the Senator from North Da- At the request of Mr. OBAMA, the as a cosponsor of S. 961, a bill to amend kota (Mr. CONRAD), the Senator from names of the Senator from Maryland title 46, United States Code, to provide Massachusetts (Mr. KERRY), the Sen- (Ms. MIKULSKI) and the Senator from benefits to certain individuals who ator from Arkansas (Mr. PRYOR), the New York (Mrs. CLINTON) were added as served in the United States merchant Senator from Hawaii (Mr. INOUYE), the cosponsors of S. 2044, a bill to provide marine (including the Army Transport Senator from Washington (Ms. CANT- procedures for the proper classification Service and the Naval Transport Serv- WELL) and the Senator from Louisiana of employees and independent contrac- ice) during World War II, and for other (Ms. LANDRIEU) were added as cospon- tors, and for other purposes. sors of S. 1951, a bill to amend title XIX purposes. S. 2060 of the Social Security Act to ensure S. 999 At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the that individuals eligible for medical as- At the request of Mr. COCHRAN, the name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. sistance under the Medicaid program name of the Senator from Kentucky COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. continue to have access to prescription (Mr. BUNNING) was added as a cosponsor 2060, a bill to amend the Elementary drugs, and for other purposes. of S. 999, a bill to amend the Public and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to Health Service Act to improve stroke S. 1954 establish a Volunteer Teacher Advisory prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and At the request of Mr. BAUCUS, the Committee. names of the Senator from Arkansas rehabilitation. S. 2071 (Mr. PRYOR) and the Senator from Ha- S. 1015 At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the waii (Mr. INOUYE) were added as co- At the request of Mr. COCHRAN, the sponsors of S. 1954, a bill to amend title names of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. name of the Senator from Iowa (Mr. XVIII of the Social Security Act to im- INOUYE) and the Senator from Iowa HARKIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. prove access to pharmacies under part (Mr. HARKIN) were added as cosponsors 1015, a bill to reauthorize the National D. of S. 2071, a bill to enhance the ability Writing Project. to combat methamphetamine. S. 1965 S. 1465 S. 2085 At the request of Mr. STEVENS, the At the request of Mr. CONRAD, the name of the Senator from South Da- At the request of Mr. BROWN, the name of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. kota (Mr. THUNE) was added as a co- names of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. ISAKSON) was added as a cosponsor of S. sponsor of S. 1965, a bill to protect chil- DURBIN) and the Senator from Wash- 1465, a bill to amend title XVIII of the dren from cybercrimes, including ington (Mrs. MURRAY) were added as Social Security Act to provide for cov- crimes by online predators, to enhance cosponsors of S. 2085, a bill to delay for erage under the Medicare program of efforts to identify and eliminate child 6 months the requirement to use tam- certain medical mobility devices ap- pornography, and to help parents per-resistant prescription pads under proved as class III medical devices. shield their children from material the Medicaid program. S. 1627 that is inappropriate for minors. S. RES. 325 At the request of Mrs. LINCOLN, the S. 1991 At the request of Mr. ISAKSON, the name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. At the request of Mr. BUNNING, the names of the Senator from Georgia MARTINEZ) was added as a cosponsor of name of the Senator from Maryland (Mr. CHAMBLISS) and the Senator from S. 1627, a bill to amend the Internal (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor Texas (Mrs. HUTCHISON) were added as Revenue Code of 1986 to extend and ex- of S. 1991, a bill to authorize the Sec- cosponsors of S. Res. 325, a resolution pand the benefits for businesses oper- retary of the Interior to conduct a supporting efforts to increase child- ating in empowerment zones, enter- study to determine the suitability and hood cancer awareness, treatment, and prise communities, or renewal commu- feasibility of extending the Lewis and research. nities, and for other purposes. Clark National Historic Trail to in- AMENDMENT NO. 2000 S. 1638 clude additional sites associated with At the request of Mr. NELSON of Flor- At the request of Mr. LEAHY, the the preparation and return phases of ida, the name of the Senator from name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. the expedition, and for other purposes. Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON) was added as a SNOWE) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 2002 cosponsor of amendment No. 2000 in- 1638, a bill to adjust the salaries of Fed- At the request of Mr. HATCH, the tended to be proposed to H.R. 1585, to eral justices and judges, and for other name of the Senator from Idaho (Mr. authorize appropriations for fiscal year purposes. CRAPO) was added as a cosponsor of S. 2008 for military activities of the De- S. 1675 2002, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- partment of Defense, for military con- At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the enue Code of 1986 to simplify certain struction, and for defense activities of name of the Senator from North Da- provisions applicable to real estate in- the Department of Energy, to prescribe kota (Mr. DORGAN) was added as a co- vestment trusts, and for other pur- military personnel strengths for such sponsor of S. 1675, a bill to implement poses. fiscal year, and for other purposes.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:01 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.027 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12004 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 AMENDMENT NO. 2912 Department of Defense, for military Act of September 24, 1789, and the first 13 At the request of Mr. LAUTENBERG, construction, and for defense activities United States Marshals were appointed by the name of the Senator from Ohio of the Department of Energy, to pre- President George Washington with their pri- (Mr. BROWN) was added as a cosponsor scribe military personnel strengths for mary mission being to support the Federal of amendment No. 2912 intended to be such fiscal year, and for other pur- courts; proposed to H.R. 1585, to authorize ap- poses. Whereas, in the early years, United States Marshals and Deputy United States Marshals AMENDMENT NO. 3010 propriations for fiscal year 2008 for executed warrants, distributed presidential military activities of the Department At the request of Mrs. MCCASKILL, proclamations, protected the president, reg- of Defense, for military construction, the name of the Senator from Delaware istered enemy aliens in time of war, pursued and for defense activities of the De- (Mr. CARPER) was added as a cosponsor counterfeiters, and helped conduct the na- partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- of amendment No. 3010 intended to be tional census, and later maintained law and tary personnel strengths for such fiscal proposed to H.R. 1585, to authorize ap- order in the ‘‘Wild West’’, helped contain the year, and for other purposes. propriations for fiscal year 2008 for uprising at Wounded Knee, kept the trains AMENDMENT NO. 2951 military activities of the Department rolling during the Pullman Strike in 1894, At the request of Mrs. DOLE, the of Defense, for military construction, and enforced the 18th Amendment during names of the Senator from North Caro- and for defense activities of the De- Prohibition; Whereas, on November 14, 1960, 4 Deputy lina (Mr. BURR), the Senator from Mas- partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- United States Marshals accompanied 6-year- sachusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) and the Sen- tary personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. old Ruby Bridges to her elementary school ator from Massachusetts (Mr. KERRY) after a Federal judge ordered the desegrega- AMENDMENT NO. 3017 were added as cosponsors of amend- tion of the New Orleans public school sys- At the request of Mr. ALEXANDER, his ment No. 2951 intended to be proposed tem, and, in 1962, when James Meredith to H.R. 1585, to authorize appropria- name was added as a cosponsor of sought to legally become the first Black per- tions for fiscal year 2008 for military amendment No. 3017 proposed to H.R. son to attend the University of Mississippi, activities of the Department of De- 1585, to authorize appropriations for the duty of upholding the Federal law allow- fense, for military construction, and fiscal year 2008 for military activities ing him to do so fell upon the shoulders of for defense activities of the Depart- of the Department of Defense, for mili- 127 Deputy Marshals from all over the coun- tary construction, and for defense ac- ment of Energy, to prescribe military try who risked their lives to make his dream tivities of the Department of Energy, personnel strengths for such fiscal a reality; to prescribe military personnel Whereas Deputy United States Marshals year, and for other purposes. strengths for such fiscal year, and for assisted in restoring order after the Los An- AMENDMENT NO. 2972 other purposes. geles riots in 1992, provided security to 18 At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the f airports in the hours and days following the name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. attacks on September 11, 2001, played an in- DURBIN) was added as a cosponsor of SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS strumental role in the ‘‘DC Sniper’’ inves- amendment No. 2972 intended to be pro- tigation, were deployed to the Gulf Coast posed to H.R. 1585, to authorize appro- after Hurricane Katrina, and provided secu- SENATE RESOLUTION 326—SUP- priations for fiscal year 2008 for mili- rity for the trials of Oklahoma bombing sus- PORTING THE GOALS AND tary activities of the Department of pect Timothy McVeigh and Al-Qaeda con- IDEALS OF A NATIONAL DAY OF Defense, for military construction, and spirator Zacarias Moussaoui; REMEMBRANCE FOR MURDER for defense activities of the Depart- Whereas, in August 2007, Deputy Marshals VICTIMS participated in the manhunt for fugitive ment of Energy, to prescribe military Paul Devoe who was wanted for 5 murders in Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mrs. FEIN- personnel strengths for such fiscal Texas and another in Pennsylvania, and who year, and for other purposes. STEIN, and Mr. KYL) submitted the fol- lowing resolution; which was referred was apprehended in Shirley, New York, by AMENDMENT NO. 2982 the United States Marshals Service’s New to the Committee on the Judiciary: At the request of Mr. COLEMAN, the York/New Jersey Regional Fugitive Task names of the Senator from Missouri S. RES. 326 Force; (Mr. BOND) and the Senator from Ar- Whereas the death of a loved one is a dev- Whereas, over the past 218 years, the Mar- astating experience, and the murder of a kansas (Mrs. LINCOLN) were added as shals Service has grown and evolved into a loved one is exceptionally difficult; modern law enforcement agency, still cosponsors of amendment No. 2982 in- Whereas the friends and families of murder tended to be proposed to H.R. 1585, to charged with protecting the Federal judici- victims cope with grief through a variety of ary, but also with apprehending dangerous authorize appropriations for fiscal year support services, including counseling, crisis fugitives, conducting protective operations, 2008 for military activities of the De- intervention, professional referrals, and as- ensuring the security of witnesses and their sistance in dealing with the criminal justice partment of Defense, for military con- families, providing for the custody and system; and struction, and for defense activities of transportation of Federal prisoners, man- Whereas the designation of a National Day the Department of Energy, to prescribe aging the Federal Government’s seized asset of Remembrance for Murder Victims on Sep- military personnel strengths for such tember 25 of each year provides an oppor- program, and conducting special operations fiscal year, and for other purposes. tunity for the people of the United States to as required by the Attorney General, and no AMENDMENT NO. 2997 honor the memories of murder victims and other law enforcement agency has as many At the request of Mr. REID, his name to recognize the impact on surviving family diverse missions and is as versatile; was added as a cosponsor of amend- members: Now, therefore, be it Whereas over 200 United States Marshals, Deputy Marshals, and Special Deputy Mar- ment No. 2997 proposed to H.R. 1585, to Resolved, That the Senate— (1) supports the goals and ideals of a Na- shals have given their lives in service to authorize appropriations for fiscal year tional Day of Remembrance for Murder Vic- their Nation; and 2008 for military activities of the De- tims; and Whereas, as the times have changed, the partment of Defense, for military con- (2) recognizes the significant benefits of- missions of the United States Marshals have struction, and for defense activities of fered by the organizations that provide serv- changed, but the Marshals Service has an- the Department of Energy, to prescribe ices to the loved ones of murder victims. swered the call to duty without exception: military personnel strengths for such Now, therefore, be it fiscal year, and for other purposes. SENATE RESOLUTION 327—RECOG- Resolved, That the Senate— AMENDMENT NO. 3003 NIZING THE 218TH ANNIVERSARY (1) honors the 5,000 members of the United At the request of Mrs. MCCASKILL, OF THE UNITED STATES MAR- States Marshals Service who every day carry the names of the Senator from Virginia SHALS SERVICE out complex and life-threatening missions with integrity, skill, and valor on behalf of (Mr. WEBB), the Senator from Wash- Mrs. DOLE (for herself and Mr. KEN- their Nation; ington (Ms. CANTWELL) and the Senator NEDY) submitted the following resolu- (2) commends United States Marshals from Nebraska (Mr. HAGEL) were added tion; which was referred to the Com- Service Director John Clark for his service as cosponsors of amendment No. 3003 mittee on the Judiciary: and leadership; and intended to be proposed to H. R. 1585, S. RES. 327 (3) thanks the United States Marshals to authorize appropriations for fiscal Whereas the United States Marshals Serv- Service for its contributions as the agency year 2008 for military activities of the ice was formed as a result of the Judiciary celebrates its 218th anniversary.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:01 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.028 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S12005 SENATE RESOLUTION 328—CON- SENATE RESOLUTION 329—CON- SA 3028. Mr. CARPER submitted an amend- DEMNING THE ASSASSINATION GRATULATING SOUTHERN ILLI- ment intended to be proposed by him to the ON SEPTEMBER 19, 2007, OF NOIS UNIVERSITY EDWARDS- bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. ANTOINE GHANEM, A MEMBER VILLE AS IT CELEBRATES ITS SA 3029. Mr. LAUTENBERG (for himself OF THE PARLIAMENT OF LEB- 50TH ANNIVERSARY and Mr. MENENDEZ) submitted an amend- ANON WHO OPPOSED SYRIAN IN- Mr. DURBIN (for himself and Mr. ment intended to be proposed by him to the TERFERENCE IN LEBANON OBAMA) submitted the following resolu- bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was ordered to lie tion; which was considered and agreed on the table. Mr. REID (for Mr. BIDEN (for himself, SA 3030. Mr. BENNETT (for himself and to: Mr. HATCH) submitted an amendment in- UGAR UNUNU Mr. L , and Mr. S )) sub- S. RES. 329 tended to be proposed to amendment SA 2011 mitted the following resolution; which Whereas Southern Illinois University proposed by Mr. NELSON of Nebraska (for Mr. was considered and agreed to: Edwardsville (SIUE) will celebrate its 50th LEVIN) to the bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was anniversary with a year-long celebration, be- ordered to lie on the table. S. RES. 328 ginning September 24, 2007; SA 3031. Mr. BOND submitted an amend- Whereas Antoine Ghanem and at least 6 Whereas SIUE has grown from 1,776 stu- ment intended to be proposed to amendment others were killed in a car-bomb attack in dents to nearly 13,500 students from 101 Illi- SA 2011 proposed by Mr. NELSON of Nebraska the Sin el-Fil suburb of Beirut on September nois counties, 43 other States, and 46 Na- (for Mr. LEVIN) to the bill H.R. 1585, supra; 19, 2007; tions; which was ordered to lie on the table. SA 3032. Mr. SESSIONS submitted an Whereas Mr. Ghanem was a member of the Whereas SIUE has conferred more than amendment intended to be proposed to Parliament of Lebanon from the Lebanese 90,000 degrees in its history and has more amendment SA 2011 proposed by Mr. NELSON than 75,000 alumni; Kataeb Party representing the Baabda and of Nebraska (for Mr. LEVIN) to the bill H.R. Aley districts of Mount Lebanon; Whereas the SIUE School of Dental Medi- 1585, supra; which was ordered to lie on the Whereas Mr. Ghanem is the 6th member of cine is rated among the top dental schools in table. the Parliament of Lebanon who had opposed the Nation and provides more than $50,000 in f Syrian interference in Lebanon to be assas- free oral health care to children annually sinated since February 2005, including former through Give Kids a Smile Day; TEXT OF AMENDMENTS Prime Minister of Lebanon Rafik Hariri, Whereas the SIUE East St. Louis Center is former Economy and Trade Minister Bassel dedicated to improving the lives of families and individuals in East St. Louis and sur- SA 3023. Mr. KERRY (for himself and Fleihan, Gebran Tueni, Industry Minister rounding urban communities; Ms. SNOWE) submitted an amendment Pierre Gemayel, and Walid Eido; Whereas the University finished 4th na- Whereas other prominent figures in Leb- intended to be proposed by him to the tionally in the United States Sports Acad- bill H.R. 1585, to authorize appropria- anon who have opposed Syrian interference emy Directors’ Cup among National Colle- in that country have also been assassinated tions for fiscal year 2008 for military giate Athletic Association Division II activities of the Department of De- in the same time period, including politician schools in 2006; George Hawi and journalist Samir Kassir, Whereas SIUE contributes roughly fense, for military construction, and while others have escaped assassination at- $356,000,000 to the regional economy, and for defense activities of the Depart- tempts, including Defense Minister Elias more than 37,000 alumni live in the region ment of Energy, to prescribe military Murr, Telecommunications Minister Marwan and contribute to the economy; personnel strengths for such fiscal Hamadeh, and television presenter May Whereas SIUE is the home of University year, and for other purposes; which was Chidiac; Park, an applied research and technology ordered to lie on the table; as follows: Whereas United Nations Security Council park located on the SIUE campus that is At the end of title X, add the following: home to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Re- Resolution 1757 of May 30, 2007, created a spe- SEC. 10ll. COMMERCIALIZATION PILOT PRO- cial international tribunal to try suspects in search Center and the Biotechnology Labora- GRAM. the assassinations of former Prime Minister tory Incubator: Now, therefore, be it Section 9(y) of the Small Business Act (15 Hariri and others; Resolved, That the Senate congratulates U.S.C. 638(y)) is amended— Whereas, by agreement between the United Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (1) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end Nations and Lebanon, the special inter- (SIUE) on its 50th anniversary, and wishes the following: ‘‘The authority to create and SIUE success in its continued service to the national tribunal can receive jurisdiction for administer a Commercialization Pilot Pro- Nation as a center of educational advance- other attacks in Lebanon that ‘‘are of a na- gram under this subsection may not be con- ment in Southern Illinois. ture and gravity similar to the attack of 14 strued to eliminate or replace any other February 2005’’; and f SBIR program that enhances the insertion or Whereas these continuing assassinations AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND transition of SBIR technologies, including any such program in effect on the date of en- are intended to undermine the sovereignty of PROPOSED Lebanon and damage its fragile democratic actment of the National Defense Authoriza- tion Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (Public Law 109- institutions: Now, therefore, be it SA 3023. Mr. KERRY (for himself and Ms. SNOWE) submitted an amendment intended 163; 119 Stat. 3136).’’; Resolved, That the Senate— to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1585, (2) by redesignating paragraphs (5) and (6) (1) expresses its deepest condolences to the to authorize appropriations for fiscal year as paragraphs (7) and (8), respectively; families of Antoine Ghanem and other vic- 2008 for military activities of the Depart- (3) by inserting after paragraph (4) the fol- tims of the attack of September 19, 2007, as ment of Defense, for military construction, lowing: well as to all the people of Lebanon; and for defense activities of the Department ‘‘(5) INSERTION INCENTIVES.—For any con- (2) condemns in the strongest terms this of Energy, to prescribe military personnel tract with a value of not less than cowardly attack and urges that its perpetra- strengths for such fiscal year, and for other $100,000,000, the Secretary of Defense is au- tors, including any state sponsor or official, purposes; which was ordered to lie on the thorized to— be held accountable for their crimes; table. ‘‘(A) establish goals for transitioning (3) underscores its full support for the spe- SA 3024. Mr. KERRY (for himself, Ms. Phase III technologies in subcontracting cial international tribunal and urges the SNOWE, Mr. HAGEL, Ms. LANDRIEU, Mr. plans; and United Nations Security Council to extend LIEBERMAN, and Ms. CANTWELL) submitted an ‘‘(B) require a prime contractor on such a contract to report the number and dollar its jurisdiction to include the Ghanem assas- amendment intended to be proposed by him amount of contracts entered into by that sination; to the bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was or- dered to lie on the table. prime contractor for Phase III SBIR (4) urges the President to increase coordi- SA 3025. Mrs. CLINTON submitted an projects. nation with key partners in Europe and the amendment intended to be proposed by her ‘‘(6) GOAL FOR SBIR TECHNOLOGY INSER- Middle East to more actively support the to the bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was or- TION.—The Secretary of Defense shall— sovereignty of Lebanon and strengthen its dered to lie on the table. ‘‘(A) set a goal to increase the number of governing institutions and security forces; SA 3026. Mr. OBAMA (for himself and Mr. Phase II contracts awarded by that Sec- and WHITEHOUSE) submitted an amendment in- retary that lead to technology transition (5) reasserts its strong belief that the peo- tended to be proposed by him to the bill H.R. into programs of record or fielded systems; ple of Lebanon should be permitted to choose 1585, supra; which was ordered to lie on the ‘‘(B) use incentives in effect on the date of their next president, in a process scheduled table. enactment of the National Defense Author- to begin in September 2007, free from all for- SA 3027. Mrs. HUTCHISON submitted an ization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, or create eign intimidation, interference, and vio- amendment intended to be proposed by her new incentives, to encourage prime contrac- lence. to the bill H.R. 1585, supra; which was or- tors to meet the goal under subparagraph dered to lie on the table. (A); and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:01 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.031 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 ‘‘(C) submit to the Committee on Armed ant to this section that are in excess of (2) by redesignating subsections (i) through Services and the Committee on Small Busi- amounts provided to the Administration for (k) as subsections (h) through (j), respec- ness and Entrepreneurship of the Senate and the Office of Veterans Business Development tively. the Committee on Armed Services and the in fiscal year 2007, should be used to support (b) PERMANENT EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY.— Committee on Small Business of the House Veterans Business Outreach Centers. Section 203 of the Veterans Entrepreneurship of Representatives an annual report regard- SEC. 4102. INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE. and Small Business Development Act of 1999 ing the percentage of contracts described in Section 32 of the Small Business Act (15 (15 U.S.C. 657b note) is amended by striking subparagraph (A) awarded by that Sec- U.S.C. 657b) is amended by adding at the end subsection (h). retary.’’; and the following: TITLE XLII—NATIONAL RESERVIST EN- (4) in paragraph (8), as so redesignated, by ‘‘(d) INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE.— TERPRISE TRANSITION AND SUSTAIN- striking ‘‘fiscal year 2009’’ and inserting ‘‘fis- ‘‘(1) ESTABLISHMENT.—Not later than 90 ABILITY cal year 2012’’. days after the date of enactment of this sub- section, the President shall establish an SEC. 4201. SHORT TITLE. SA 3024. Mr. KERRY (for himself, Ms. interagency task force to coordinate the ef- This title may be cited as the ‘‘National SNOWE, Mr. HAGEL, Ms. LANDRIEU, Mr. forts of Federal agencies necessary to in- Reservist Enterprise Transition and Sustain- LIEBERMAN, and Ms. CANTWELL) sub- crease capital and business development op- ability Act of 2007’’. mitted an amendment intended to be portunities for, and increase the award of SEC. 4202. PURPOSE. proposed by him to the bill H.R. 1585, Federal contracting and subcontracting op- The purpose of this title is to establish a to authorize appropriations for fiscal portunities to, small business concerns program to— year 2008 for military activities of the owned and controlled by service-disabled (1) provide managerial, financial, planning, Department of Defense, for military veterans and small business concerns owned development, technical, and regulatory as- and controlled by veterans (in this section construction, and for defense activities sistance to small business concerns owned referred to as the ‘task force’). and operated by Reservists; of the Department of Energy, to pre- ‘‘(2) MEMBERSHIP.—The members of the (2) provide managerial, financial, planning, scribe military personnel strengths for task force shall include— development, technical, and regulatory as- such fiscal year, and for other pur- ‘‘(A) the Administrator, who shall serve as sistance to the temporary heads of small poses; which was ordered to lie on the chairperson of the task force; business concerns owned and operated by Re- table; as follows: ‘‘(B) a representative from— servists; ‘‘(i) the Department of Veterans Affairs; At the end, add the following: (3) create a partnership between the Small ‘‘(ii) the Department of Defense; Business Administration, the Department of DIVISION D—VETERAN SMALL ‘‘(iii) the Administration (in addition to Defense, and the Department of Veterans Af- BUSINESSES the Administrator); fairs to assist small business concerns owned SEC. 4001. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘(iv) the Department of Labor; and operated by Reservists; This division may be cited as the ‘‘Military ‘‘(v) the Department of the Treasury; (4) utilize the service delivery network of Reservist and Veteran Small Business Reau- ‘‘(vi) the General Services Administration; small business development centers, wom- thorization and Opportunity Act of 2007’’. and en’s business centers, Veterans Business Out- SEC. 4002. DEFINITIONS. ‘‘(vii) the Office of Management and Budg- reach Centers, and centers operated by the In this division— et; and National Veterans Business Development (1) the term ‘‘activated’’ means receiving ‘‘(C) 4 representatives from a veterans Corporation to expand the access of small an order placing a Reservist on active duty; service organization or military organiza- business concerns owned and operated by Re- (2) the term ‘‘active duty’’ has the meaning tion or association, selected by the Presi- servists to programs providing business man- given that term in section 101 of title 10, dent. agement, development, financial, procure- United States Code; ‘‘(3) DUTIES.—The task force shall coordi- ment, technical, regulatory, and marketing (3) the terms ‘‘Administration’’ and ‘‘Ad- nate administrative and regulatory activi- assistance; ministrator’’ mean the Small Business Ad- ties and develop proposals relating to— (5) utilize the service delivery network of ministration and the Administrator thereof, ‘‘(A) increasing capital access and capacity small business development centers, wom- respectively; of small business concerns owned and con- en’s business centers, Veterans Business Out- (4) the term ‘‘Reservist’’ means a member trolled by service-disabled veterans and reach Centers, and centers operated by the of a reserve component of the Armed Forces, small business concerns owned and con- National Veterans Business Development as described in section 10101 of title 10, trolled by veterans through loans, surety Corporation to quickly respond to an activa- United States Code; bonding, and franchising; tion of Reservists that own and operate (5) the term ‘‘Service Corps of Retired Ex- ‘‘(B) increasing access to Federal con- small business concerns; and ecutives’’ means the Service Corps of Retired tracting and subcontracting for small busi- (6) utilize the service delivery network of Executives authorized by section 8(b)(1) of ness concerns owned and controlled by serv- small business development centers, wom- the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(b)(1)); ice-disabled veterans and small business con- en’s business centers, Veterans Business Out- (6) the terms ‘‘service-disabled veteran’’ cerns owned and controlled by veterans reach Centers, and centers operated by the and ‘‘small business concern’’ have the through expanded mentor-prote´ge´ assistance National Veterans Business Development meaning as in section 3 of the Small Busi- and matching such small business concerns Corporation to assist Reservists that own ness Act (15 U.S.C. 632); with contracting opportunities; and operate small business concerns in pre- (7) the term ‘‘small business development ‘‘(C) increasing the integrity of certifi- paring for future military activations. center’’ means a small business development cations of status as a small business concern center described in section 21 of the Small SEC. 4203. NATIONAL GUARD AND RESERVE BUSI- owned and controlled by service-disabled NESS ASSISTANCE. Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648); and veterans or a small business concern owned (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 21(a)(1) of the (8) the term ‘‘women’s business center’’ and controlled by veterans; Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648(a)(1)) is means a women’s business center described ‘‘(D) reducing paperwork and administra- amended by inserting ‘‘any small business in section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 tive burdens on veterans in accessing busi- development center, women’s business cen- U.S.C. 656). ness development and entrepreneurship op- ter, Veterans Business Outreach Center, or portunities; and TITLE XLI—VETERANS BUSINESS center operated by the National Veterans ‘‘(E) making other improvements relating DEVELOPMENT Business Development Corporation providing to the support for veterans business develop- SEC. 4101. INCREASED FUNDING FOR THE OFFICE enterprise transition and sustainability as- ment by the Federal Government. OF VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOP- sistance to Reservists under section 37,’’ ‘‘(4) REPORTING.—The task force shall sub- MENT. after ‘‘any women’s business center oper- mit an annual report regarding its activities (a) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to ating pursuant to section 29,’’. be appropriated to the Office of Veterans and proposals to— (b) PROGRAM.—The Small Business Act (15 Business Development of the Administra- ‘‘(A) the Committee on Small Business and U.S.C. 631 et seq.) is amended— tion, to remain available until expended— Entrepreneurship and the Committee on Vet- (1) by redesignating section 37 (15 U.S.C. (1) $2,100,000 for fiscal year 2008; erans’ Affairs of the Senate; and 631 note) as section 38; and (2) $2,300,000 for fiscal year 2009; and ‘‘(B) the Committee on Small Business and (2) by inserting after section 36 the fol- (3) $2,500,000 for fiscal year 2010. the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the lowing: (b) FUNDING OFFSET.—Amounts necessary House of Representatives.’’. to carry out subsection (a) shall be offset and SEC. 4103. PERMANENT EXTENSION OF SBA ADVI- ‘‘SEC. 37. RESERVIST ENTERPRISE TRANSITION made available through the reduction of the SORY COMMITTEE ON VETERANS AND SUSTAINABILITY. authorization of funding under section BUSINESS AFFAIRS. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator shall 20(e)(1)(B)(iv) of the Small Business Act (15 (a) ASSUMPTION OF DUTIES.—Section 33 of establish a program to provide business plan- U.S.C. 631 note). the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 657c) is ning assistance to small business concerns (c) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of amended— owned and operated by Reservists. Congress that any amounts provided pursu- (1) by striking subsection (h); and ‘‘(b) DEFINITIONS.—In this section—

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‘‘(1) the terms ‘activated’ and ‘activation’ ‘‘(A) procedures for identifying, in con- (b) PRE-CONSIDERATION PROCESS.— mean having received an order placing a Re- sultation with the Secretary of Defense, (1) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the servists on active duty, as defined by section States that have had a recent activation of term ‘‘eligible Reservist’’ means a Reservist 101(1) of title 10, United States Code; Reservists; who— ‘‘(2) the term ‘Administrator’ means the ‘‘(B) priorities for the types of assistance (A) has not been ordered to active duty; Administrator of the Small Business Admin- to be provided under the program authorized (B) expects to be ordered to active duty istration, acting through the Associate Ad- by this section; during a period of military conflict; and ministrator for Small Business Development ‘‘(C) standards relating to educational, (C) can reasonably demonstrate that the Centers; technical, and support services to be pro- small business concern for which that Re- ‘‘(3) the term ‘Association’ means the asso- vided by a grantee; servist is a key employee will suffer eco- ciation established under section 21(a)(3)(A); ‘‘(D) standards relating to any national nomic injury in the absence of that Reserv- ‘‘(4) the term ‘eligible applicant’ means— service delivery and support function to be ist. ‘‘(A) a small business development center provided by a grantee; (2) ESTABLISHMENT.—Not later than 6 that is accredited under section 21(k); ‘‘(E) standards relating to any work plan months after the date of enactment of this ‘‘(B) a women’s business center; that the Administrator may require a grant- Act, the Administrator shall establish a pre- ‘‘(C) a Veterans Business Outreach Center ee to develop; and consideration process, under which the Ad- that receives funds from the Office of Vet- ‘‘(F) standards relating to the educational, ministrator— erans Business Development; or technical, and professional competency of (A) may collect all relevant materials nec- ‘‘(D) an information and assistance center any expert or other assistance provider to essary for processing a loan to a small busi- operated by the National Veterans Business whom a small business concern may be re- ness concern under section 7(b)(3) of the Development Corporation under section 33; ferred for assistance by a grantee. Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(3)) be- ‘‘(5) the term ‘enterprise transition and ‘‘(e) APPLICATION.— fore an eligible Reservist employed by that sustainability assistance’ means assistance ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Each eligible applicant small business concern is activated; and provided by an eligible applicant to a small desiring a grant under this section shall sub- (B) shall distribute funds for any loan ap- business concern owned and operated by a mit an application to the Administrator at proved under subparagraph (A) if that eligi- Reservist, who has been activated or is like- such time, in such manner, and accompanied ble Reservist is activated. by such information as the Administrator ly to be activated in the next 12 months, to (c) OUTREACH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE may reasonably require. develop and implement a business strategy PROGRAM.— ‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—Each application sub- for the period while the owner is on active (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 6 months mitted under paragraph (1) shall describe— duty and 6 months after the date of the re- after the date of enactment of this Act, the ‘‘(A) the activities for which the applicant turn of the owner; Administrator, in consultation with the Sec- seeks assistance under this section; and ‘‘(6) the term ‘Reservist’ means any person retary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary ‘‘(B) how the applicant plans to allocate who is— of Defense, shall develop a comprehensive funds within its network. ‘‘(A) a member of a reserve component of outreach and technical assistance program ‘‘(f) AWARD OF GRANTS.— the Armed Forces, as defined by section 10101 (in this subsection referred to as the ‘‘pro- ‘‘(1) DEADLINE.—The Administrator shall of title 10, United States Code; and gram’’) to— ‘‘(B) on active status, as defined by section award grants not later than 60 days after the (A) market the loans available under sec- 101(d)(4) of title 10, United States Code; promulgation of final rules and regulations tion 7(b)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 ‘‘(7) the term ‘small business development under subsection (d). U.S.C. 636(b)(3)) to Reservists, and family center’ means a small business development ‘‘(2) AMOUNT.—Each eligible applicant members of Reservists, that are on active center as described in section 21 of the Small awarded a grant under this section shall re- duty and that are not on active duty; and Business Act (15 U.S.C. 648); ceive a grant in an amount not greater than (B) provide technical assistance to a small ‘‘(8) the term ‘State’ means each of the $300,000 per fiscal year. business concern applying for a loan under several States of the United States, the Dis- ‘‘(g) REPORT.— that section. trict of Columbia, the Commonwealth of ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Comptroller General (2) COMPONENTS.—The program shall— Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American of the United States shall— (A) incorporate appropriate websites main- Samoa, and Guam; and ‘‘(A) initiate an evaluation of the program tained by the Administration, the Depart- ‘‘(9) the term ‘women’s business center’ not later than 30 months after the disburse- ment of Veterans Affairs, and the Depart- means a women’s business center described ment of the first grant under this section; ment of Defense; and in section 29 of the Small Business Act (15 and ‘‘(B) submit a report not later than 6 (B) require that information on the pro- U.S.C. 656). gram is made available to small business ‘‘(c) AUTHORITY.—The Administrator may months after the initiation of the evaluation award grants, in accordance with the regula- under paragraph (1) to— concerns directly through— tions developed under subsection (d), to eli- ‘‘(i) the Administrator; (i) the district offices and resource part- gible applicants to assist small business con- ‘‘(ii) the Committee on Small Business and ners of the Administration, including small cerns owned and operated by Reservists by— Entrepreneurship of the Senate; and business development centers, women’s busi- ‘‘(1) providing management, development, ‘‘(iii) the Committee on Small Business of ness centers, and the Service Corps of Re- financing, procurement, technical, regu- the House of Representatives. tired Executives; and latory, and marketing assistance; ‘‘(2) CONTENTS.—The report under para- (ii) other Federal agencies, including the ‘‘(2) providing access to information and graph (1) shall— Department of Veterans Affairs and the De- resources, including Federal and State busi- ‘‘(A) address the results of the evaluation partment of Defense. ness assistance programs; conducted under paragraph (1); and (3) REPORT.— ‘‘(3) distributing contact information pro- ‘‘(B) recommend changes to law, if any, (A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 6 months vided by the Department of Defense regard- that it believes would be necessary or advis- after the date of enactment of this Act, and ing activated Reservists to corresponding able to achieve the goals of this section. every 6 months thereafter until the date that State directors; ‘‘(h) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— is 30 months after such date of enactment, ‘‘(4) offering free, one-on-one, in-depth ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to the Administrator shall submit to Congress counseling regarding management, develop- be appropriated to carry out this section— a report on the status of the program. ment, financing, procurement, regulations, ‘‘(A) $5,000,000 for the first fiscal year be- (B) CONTENTS.—Each report submitted and marketing; ginning after the date of enactment of the under subparagraph (A) shall include— ‘‘(5) assisting in developing a long-term Military Reservist and Veteran Small Busi- (i) for the 6-month period ending on the plan for possible future activation; and ness Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of date of that report— ‘‘(6) providing enterprise transition and 2007; and (I) the number of loans approved under sec- sustainability assistance. ‘‘(B) $5,000,000 for each of the 3 fiscal years tion 7(b)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 ‘‘(d) RULEMAKING.— following the fiscal year described in sub- U.S.C. 636(b)(3)); ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator, in paragraph (A). (II) the number of loans disbursed under consultation with the Association and after ‘‘(2) FUNDING OFFSET.—Amounts necessary that section; and notice and an opportunity for comment, to carry out this section shall be offset and (III) the total amount disbursed under that shall promulgate regulations to carry out made available through the reduction of the section; and this section. authorization of funding under section (ii) recommendations, if any, to make the ‘‘(2) DEADLINE.—The Administrator shall 20(e)(1)(B)(iv) of the Small Business Act (15 program more effective in serving small promulgate final regulations not later than U.S.C. 631 note).’’. business concerns that employ Reservists. 180 days of the date of enactment of the Mili- TITLE XLIII—RESERVIST PROGRAMS SEC. 4302. RESERVIST LOANS. tary Reservist and Veteran Small Business SEC. 4301. RESERVIST PROGRAMS. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7(b)(3)(E) of the Reauthorization and Opportunity Act of 2007. (a) APPLICATION PERIOD.—Section 7(b)(3)(C) Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(3)(E)) is ‘‘(3) CONTENTS.—The regulations developed of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. amended by striking ‘‘$1,500,000’’ each place by the Administrator under this subsection 636(b)(3)(C)) is amended by striking ‘‘90 days’’ such term appears and inserting ‘‘$2,000,000’’. shall establish— and inserting ‘‘1 year’’. (b) LOAN INFORMATION.—

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(1) IN GENERAL.—The Administrator and (1) the types of assistance needed by serv- title is amended by striking ‘‘December 31, the Secretary of Defense shall develop a ice-disabled veterans who wish to become en- 2008’’ and inserting ‘‘December 31, 2009’’. joint website and printed materials pro- trepreneurs; and (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments viding information regarding any program (2) any resources that would assist such made by this section shall take effect on Oc- for small business concerns that is available service-disabled veterans. tober 1, 2007. to veterans or Reservists. SEC. 4307. STUDY ON OPTIONS FOR PROMOTING (2) MARKETING.—The Administrator is au- POSITIVE WORKING RELATIONS BE- SA 3026. Mr. OBAMA (for himself and thorized— TWEEN EMPLOYERS AND THEIR RE- Mr. WHITEHOUSE) submitted an amend- (A) to advertise and promote the program SERVE COMPONENT EMPLOYEES. ment intended to be proposed by him under section 7(b)(3) of the Small Business (a) STUDY REQUIRED.—The Comptroller to the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize ap- Act jointly with the Secretary of Defense General of the United States shall conduct a propriations for fiscal year 2008 for and veterans’ service organizations; and study on options for promoting positive military activities of the Department (B) to advertise and promote participation working relations between employers and of Defense, for military construction, by lenders in such program jointly with Reserve component employees of such em- ployers, including assessing options for im- and for defense activities of the De- trade associations for banks or other lending partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- institutions. proving the time in which employers of Re- tary personnel strengths for such fiscal SEC. 4303. NONCOLLATERALIZED LOANS. servists are notified of the call or order of Section 7(b)(3) of the Small Business Act such members to active duty other than for year, and for other purposes; which was (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(3)) is amended by adding at training. ordered to lie on the table; as follows: EPORT.— the end the following: (b) R At the end of subtitle E of title VIII, add (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days ‘‘(G)(i) Notwithstanding any other provi- the following: after the date of enactment of this Act, the sion of law, the Administrator may make a SEC. 876. TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY loan under this paragraph of not more than Comptroller General of the United States IN MILITARY AND SECURITY CON- $50,000 without collateral. shall submit to the appropriate committees TRACTING. ‘‘(ii) The Administrator may defer pay- of Congress a report on the study conducted (a) REPORTS ON IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN CONTRACTS.—Not later than 90 days after the ment of principal and interest on a loan de- under subsection (a). ONTENTS.—The report submitted under date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- scribed in clause (i) during the longer of— (2) C paragraph (1) shall— retary of Defense, the Secretary of State, the ‘‘(I) the 1-year period beginning on the date (A) provide a quantitative and qualitative Secretary of the Interior, the Administrator of the initial disbursement of the loan; and assessment of— of the United States Agency for Inter- ‘‘(II) the period during which the relevant (i) what measures, if any, are being taken national Development, and the Director of essential employee is on active duty.’’. to inform Reservists of the obligations and National Intelligence shall each submit to SEC. 4304. LOAN PRIORITY. responsibilities of such members to their em- Congress a report that contains the informa- Section 7(b)(3) of the Small Business Act ployers; tion, current as of the date of the enactment (15 U.S.C. 636(b)(3)), as amended by this Act, (ii) how effective such measures have been; of this Act, as follows: is amended by adding at the end the fol- and (1) The number of persons performing work lowing: (iii) whether there are additional measures in Iraq and Afghanistan under contracts (and ‘‘(H) The Administrator shall give priority that could be taken to promote positive subcontracts at any tier) entered into by de- to any application for a loan under this para- working relations between Reservists and partments and agencies of the United States graph and shall process and make a deter- their employers, including any steps that Government, including the Department of mination regarding such applications prior could be taken to ensure that employers are Defense, the Department of State, the De- to processing or making a determination on timely notified of a call to active duty; and partment of the Interior, and the United other loan applications under this sub- (B) assess whether there has been a reduc- States Agency for International Develop- section, on a rolling basis.’’. tion in the hiring of Reservists by business ment, respectively. SEC. 4305. RELIEF FROM TIME LIMITATIONS FOR concerns because of— (2) The companies awarded such contracts VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSI- (i) any increase in the use of Reservists and subcontracts. NESSES. (3) The total cost of such contracts. Section 3(q) of the Small Business Act (15 after September 11, 2001; or (ii) any change in any policy of the Depart- (4) The total number of persons who have U.S.C. 632(q)) is amended by adding at the been killed or wounded in performing work end the following: ment of Defense relating to Reservists after September 11, 2001. under such contracts. ‘‘(5) RELIEF FROM TIME LIMITATIONS.— (c) APPROPRIATE COMMITTEES OF CONGRESS (b) DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE REPORT ON ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Any time limitation on DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘appro- STRATEGY FOR AND APPROPRIATENESS OF AC- any qualification, certification, or period of priate committees of Congress’’ means— TIVITIES OF CONTRACTORS UNDER DEPART- participation imposed under this Act on any (1) the Committee on Armed Services and MENT OF DEFENSE CONTRACTS IN IRAQ, AF- program available to small business con- the Committee on Small Business and Entre- GHANISTAN, AND THE GLOBAL WAR ON TER- cerns shall be extended for a small business preneurship of the Senate; and ROR.—Not later than 180 days after the date concern that— (2) the Committee on Armed Services and of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary ‘‘(i) is owned and controlled by— the Committee on Small Business of the of Defense shall submit to Congress a report ‘‘(I) a veteran who was called or ordered to House of Representatives. setting forth the strategy of the Department active duty under a provision of law specified of Defense for the use of, and a description of in section 101(a)(13)(B) of title 10, United SA 3025. Mrs. CLINTON submitted an the activities being carried out by, contrac- States Code, on or after September 11, 2001; amendment intended to be proposed by tors and subcontractors working in Iraq and or Afghanistan in support of Department mis- ‘‘(II) a service-disabled veteran who be- her to the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize sions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Global came such a veteran due to an injury or ill- appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for War on Terror, including its strategy for en- ness incurred or aggravated in the active military activities of the Department suring that such contracts do not— military, naval, or air service during a pe- of Defense, for military construction, (1) have private companies and their em- riod of active duty pursuant to a call or and for defense activities of the De- ployees performing inherently governmental order to active duty under a provision of law partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- functions; referred to in subclause (I) on or after Sep- tary personnel strengths for such fiscal (2) place contractors in supervisory roles tember 11, 2001; and year, and for other purposes; which was over United States Government personnel; or ‘‘(ii) was subject to the time limitation (3) threaten the safety of contractor per- during such period of active duty. ordered to lie on the table; as follows: sonnel or United States Government per- ‘‘(B) DURATION.—Upon submission of proper At the end of subtitle A of title VI, add the sonnel. documentation to the Administrator, the ex- following: tension of a time limitation under subpara- SEC. 604. EXTENSION AND ENHANCEMENT OF AU- SA 3027. Mrs. HUTCHISON submitted graph (A) shall be equal to the period of time THORITY FOR TEMPORARY LODGING an amendment intended to be proposed that such veteran who owned or controlled EXPENSES FOR MEMBERS OF THE by her to the bill H.R. 1585, to author- such a concern was on active duty as de- ARMED FORCES IN AREAS SUBJECT TO MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION ize appropriations for fiscal year 2008 scribed in that subparagraph.’’. OR FOR INSTALLATIONS EXPERI- for military activities of the Depart- SEC. 4306. SERVICE-DISABLED VETERANS. ENCING SUDDEN INCREASE IN PER- ment of Defense, for military construc- Not later than 180 days after the date of SONNEL LEVELS. tion, and for defense activities of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller Gen- (a) MAXIMUM PERIOD OF RECEIPT OF EX- Department of Energy, to prescribe eral of the United States shall submit to the PENSES.—Section 404a(c)(3) of title 37, United Committee on Small Business and Entrepre- States Code, is amended by striking ‘‘20 military personnel strengths for such neurship of the Senate and the Committee days’’ and inserting ‘‘60 days’’. fiscal year, and for other purposes; on Small Business of the House of Represent- (b) EXTENSION OF AUTHORITY FOR INCREASE which was ordered to lie on the table; atives a report describing— IN CERTAIN BAH.—Section 403(b)(7)(E) of such as follows:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:01 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.034 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S12009 At the end of title X, add the following: tary personnel strengths for such fiscal amendment SA 2011 proposed by Mr. SEC. 1070. REPORT ON FEASIBILITY OF ESTAB- year, and for other purposes; which was NELSON of Nebraska (for Mr. LEVIN) to LISHING A DOMESTIC MILITARY ordered to lie on the table; as follows: the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize appro- AVIATION NATIONAL TRAINING CEN- TER. At the end of title III, add the following: priations for fiscal year 2008 for mili- (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than March 31, SEC. 358. REPORTS ON SAFETY MEASURES AND tary activities of the Department of 2008, the Secretary of Defense shall submit ENCROACHMENT ISSUES AT WAR- Defense, for military construction, and to the congressional defense committees a REN GROVE GUNNERY RANGE, NEW JERSEY. for defense activities of the Depart- report on the feasibility of establishing a Do- (a) FINDINGS.—Congress makes the fol- ment of Energy, to prescribe military mestic Military Aviation National Training lowing findings: personnel strengths for such fiscal Center (DMA-NTC) for current and future (1) The has 32 year, and for other purposes; which was operational reconnaissance and surveillance training sites in the United States for aerial missions of the National Guard that support ordered to lie on the table; as follows: bombing and gunner training, of which War- local, State, and Federal law enforcement At the end of subtitle C of title XXVIII, ren Grove Gunnery Range functions in the agencies. add the following: densely populated Northeast. (b) CONTENT.—The report required under SEC. 2836. MODIFICATION OF LAND MANAGE- (2) A number of dangerous safety incidents subsection (a) shall— MENT RESTRICTIONS APPLICABLE caused by the Air National Guard have re- (1) examine the current and past require- TO UTAH NATIONAL DEFENSE peatedly impacted the residents of New Jer- ments of RC-26 aircraft in support of local, LANDS. sey, including the following: State, and Federal law enforcement and de- Section 2815 of the National Defense Au- (A) On May 15, 2007, a fire ignited during an termine the number of aircraft required to thorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (Public Air National Guard practice mission at War- provide such support for each State that bor- Law 106–65; 113 Stat. 852) is amended— ren Grove Gunnery Range, scorching 17,250 ders Canada, Mexico, or the Gulf of Mexico; (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘that are acres of New Jersey’s Pinelands, destroying 5 (2) determine the number of military and adjacent to or near the Utah Test and Train- houses, significantly damaging 13 others, and civilian personnel required to run a RC-26 do- ing Range and Dugway Proving Ground or temporarily displacing approximately 6,000 mestic training center meeting the require- beneath’’ and inserting ‘‘that are beneath’’; people from their homes in sections of Ocean ments identified under paragraph (1); and and and Burlington Counties. (3) determine the requirements and cost of (2) by adding at the end the following new (B) In November 2004, an F-16 Vulcan can- locating such a training center at a military subsection: non piloted by the District of Columbia Air installation for the purpose of preempting ‘‘(e) SUNSET DATE.—This section shall ex- National Guard was more than 3 miles off and responding to security threats and re- pire on October 1, 2013.’’. target when it blasted 1.5-inch steel training sponding to crises. rounds into the roof of the Little Egg Harbor (c) CONSULTATION.—In preparing the report SA 3031. Mr. BOND submitted an Township Intermediate School. required under subsection (a), the Secretary amendment intended to be proposed to (C) In 2002, a pilot ejected from an F-16 air- of Defense shall consult with the Adjutant amendment SA 2011 proposed by Mr. craft just before it crashed into the woods General of each State that borders Canada, near the Garden State Parkway, sending NELSON of Nebraska (for Mr. LEVIN) to Mexico, or the Gulf of Mexico. large pieces of debris onto the busy highway. the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize appro- priations for fiscal year 2008 for mili- SA 3028. Mr. CARPER submitted an (D) In 1999, a dummy bomb was dumped a mile off target from the Warren Grove target tary activities of the Department of amendment intended to be proposed by range in the Pine Barrens, igniting a fire Defense, for military construction, and him to the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize that burned 12,000 acres of the Pinelands for- for defense activities of the Depart- appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for est. ment of Energy, to prescribe military military activities of the Department (E) In 1997, the pilots of F-16 aircraft up- personnel strengths for such fiscal of Defense, for military construction, lifting from the Warren Grove Gunnery year, and for other purposes; which was and for defense activities of the De- Range escaped injury by ejecting from their ordered to lie on the table; as follows: partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- aircraft just before the planes collided over tary personnel strengths for such fiscal the ocean near the north end of Brigantine. After section 1064, insert the following: Pilot error was found to be the cause of the year, and for other purposes; which was SEC. 1065. IMPROVEMENTS IN THE PROCESS FOR collision. THE ISSUANCE OF SECURITY CLEAR- ordered to lie on the table; as follows: (F) In 1986, a New Jersey Air National ANCES. At the end of subtitle E of title X, add the Guard jet fighter crashed in a remote section (a) FINDINGS.—Congress makes the fol- following: of the Pine Barrens in Burlington County, lowing findings: SEC. 1070. DEFINITION OF ALTERNATIVE FUELED starting a fire that scorched at least 90 acres (1) The process for issuing security clear- VEHICLE. of woodland. ances is an antiquated, paper-driven effort Section 301(3) of the Energy Policy Act of (b) ANNUAL REPORT ON SAFETY MEAS- that costs thousands of dollars and requires 1992 (42 U.S.C. 13211(3)) is amended— URES.—Not later than 90 days after the date hundreds of days to process one request for a (1) by striking ‘‘(3) the term’’ and inserting of the enactment of this Act, and annually security clearance. the following: thereafter for two years, the Secretary of the (2) Years of promises to improve the proc- ‘‘(3) ALTERNATIVE FUELED VEHICLE.— Air Force shall submit to the congressional ess have resulted in no reduction in the ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term’’; and defense committees a report on efforts made amount of time and money required to proc- (2) by adding at the end the following: to provide the highest level of safety by all ess a request for a security clearance and ‘‘(B) INCLUSIONS.—The term ‘alternative of the military departments utilizing the such process is hopelessly backlogged. fueled vehicle’ includes— Warren Grove Gunnery Range. (3) The inability of civilians, intelligence ‘‘(i) a new qualified fuel cell motor vehicle (c) STUDY ON ENCROACHMENT AT WARREN officers, military personnel, and contractors (as defined in section 30B(b)(3) of the Inter- GROVE GUNNERY RANGE.— to perform their jobs due to delays in receiv- nal Revenue Code of 1986); (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days ing a security clearance results in substan- ‘‘(ii) a new advanced lean burn technology after the date of the enactment of this Act, tial costs every year and poses a significant motor vehicle (as defined in section 30B(c)(3) the Secretary of the Air Force shall submit threat to the national security of the United of that Code); to the congressional defense committees a States. ‘‘(iii) a new qualified hybrid motor vehicle study on encroachment issues at Warren (4) The Secretary of Defense and the Direc- (as defined in section 30B(d)(3) of that Code); Grove Gunnery Range. tor of National Intelligence have begun to and (2) CONTENT.—The study required under work together to improve the process for ‘‘(iv) any other type of vehicle that the paragraph (1) shall include a master plan for issuing security clearances and have estab- agency demonstrates to the Secretary would the Warren Grove Gunnery Range and the lished a team known as the ‘‘Tiger Team’’ to achieve a significant reduction in petroleum surrounding community, taking into consid- address problems in that process. consumption.’’. eration military mission, land use plans, (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of urban encroachment, the economy of the re- Congress that— SA 3029. Mr. LAUTENBERG (for him- gion, and protection of the environment and (1) the Secretary of Defense and the Direc- self and Mr. MENENDEZ) submitted an public health, safety, and welfare. tor of National Intelligence should continue amendment intended to be proposed by (3) REQUIRED INPUT.—The study required to work together to rapidly update the anti- him to the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize under paragraph (1) shall include input from quated security clearance process using ex- all affected parties and relevant stake- appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for isting commercial technology and innova- holders at the Federal, State, and local level. tive new approaches to transform the process military activities of the Department to the maximum extent possible; and of Defense, for military construction, SA 3030. Mr. BENNETT (for himself (2) funding for processing of requests for and for defense activities of the De- and Mr. HATCH) submitted an amend- security clearances should be made available partment of Energy, to prescribe mili- ment intended to be proposed to directly through appropriations of funds for

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:01 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.035 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 that purpose and not through a fee-for-serv- NOTICE OF HEARING America to the Sixty-second Session of the ice arrangement with the Office of Manage- General Assembly of the United Nations. COMMITTEE ON SMALL BUSINESS AND ment and Budget or the Office of Personnel f Management. ENTREPRENEURSHIP Mr. KERRY. I would like to inform LEGISLATIVE SESSION (c) DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS.— Members that the Committee on Small (1) REQUIREMENT FOR DEMONSTRATION The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- PROJECTS.—Not later than 6 months after the Business and Entrepreneurship will ate will now return to legislative ses- date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- hold a hearing entitled ‘‘Improving sion. retary of Defense and the Director of Na- Internet Access to Help Small Business tional Intelligence shall implement multiple Compete in a Global Economy,’’ on f demonstration projects that apply new and Wednesday, September 26, 2007, at 10 CONDEMNING THE ASSASSINATION innovative approaches to improve the proc- a.m., in room 428A of the Russell Sen- OF ANTOINE GHANEM essing of requests for security clearances. ate Office Building. Each such project shall utilize proven com- Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- mercial technologies and methods to the f imous consent that the Senate proceed maximum extent possible. AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO to S. Res. 328. (2) EXEMPTION FROM EXECUTIVE ORDERS.— MEET The PRESIDING OFFICER. The No executive order that delegates responsi- clerk will report the resolution by bility for the issuance of security clearances COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL title. to the personnel of the Office of Management RESOURCES and Budget shall apply to a demonstration The assistant legislative clerk read Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I ask as follows: project carried out under paragraph (1). unanimous consent that the Com- (3) REPORT.—Not later than 6 months after A resolution (S. Res. 328) condemning the the date of the enactment of this Act, the mittee on Energy and Natural Re- assassination on September 19, 2007, of Secretary of Defense and the Director of Na- sources be authorized to hold a hearing Antoine Ghanem, a member of the Par- tional Intelligence shall submit to Congress during the session of the Senate on liament of Lebanon who opposed Syrian in- a report on the status and progress of the Monday, September 24, 2007, at 3 p.m. terference in Lebanon. demonstration projects carried out under in room SD–366 of the Dirksen Senate The PRESIDING OFFICER. There paragraph (1). Office Building. The purpose of the being no objection, the Senate pro- (4) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— hearing is to consider scientific assess- ceeded to consider the resolution. There are authorized to be appropriated to ments of the impacts of global climate the Secretary of Defense and the Director of Mr. BIDEN. Mr. President, in the National Intelligence such sums as may be change on wildfire activity in the coming days there will be more funer- necessary to carry out this subsection. United States. als in Lebanon for fresh victims of des- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (d) EVALUATION AND REPORT.— picable terror attacks. On Wednesday, objection, it is so ordered. (1) REQUIREMENT FOR EVALUATION.—The September 19, 2007, Lebanese member Secretary of Defense and the Director of Na- f of Parliament Antoine Ghanem and at tional Intelligence shall carry out an evalua- least six others were killed in a mas- EXECUTIVE SESSION tion of the process for issuing security clear- sive car bomb attack in the suburbs of ances and develop a specific plan and sched- Beirut. ule for replacing such process with an im- Tragically, this is an all-too-frequent proved process. NOMINATION OF TED POE TO BE occurrence for the people of Lebanon. (2) REQUIREMENT FOR REPORT.—Not later REPRESENTATIVE OF THE than 30 days after the date of the enactment UNITED STATES TO THE 62ND The wave began with the February 14, of this Act, the Secretary of Defense and the SESSION OF THE GENERAL AS- 2005, assassination of former Prime Director of National Intelligence shall sub- SEMBLY OF THE UNITED NA- Minister Rafik Hariri and 21 others. On mit to Congress a report on the evaluation TIONS the 1-month anniversary of Prime Min- carried out under paragraph (1) together ister Hariri’s assassination, something with the plan developed under such para- remarkable happened—hundreds of graph. NOMINATION OF WILLIAM thousands of people gathered in Mar- DELAHUNT TO BE A REPRESENT- tyr’s Square in downtown Beirut— SA 3032. Mr. SESSIONS submitted an ATIVE OF THE UNITED STATES spontaneously giving birth to the amendment intended to be proposed to TO THE 62ND SESSION OF THE March 14 movement and the Cedar Rev- amendment SA 2011 proposed by Mr. GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE olution. Just 6 weeks after the March NELSON of Nebraska (for Mr. LEVIN) to UNITED NATIONS 14 movement began, the thousands of Syrian military forces that had occu- the bill H.R. 1585, to authorize appro- Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- pied Lebanon for nearly three decades priations for fiscal year 2008 for mili- imous consent that the Senate proceed were out of the country. tary activities of the Department of to Executive Session and the Foreign But although the military occupa- Defense, for military construction, and Relations Committee be discharged tion of Lebanon ended in 2005, Lebanon for defense activities of the Depart- from the following nominations: TED has remained under siege, as Wednes- ment of Energy, to prescribe military POE to be a representative of the day’s events remind us. Six Lebanese personnel strengths for such fiscal United States to the 62nd session of the parliamentarians have now been killed year, and for other purposes; which was General Assembly of the United Na- in 21⁄2 years. These six, and other ordered to lie on the table; as follows: tions and WILLIAM DELAHUNT to be a prominent Lebanese figures who were representative of the United States to Strike section 531 and insert the following: also killed during the same period, the 62nd session of the General Assem- shared one important attribute—they SEC. 531. SENSE OF SENATE ON FORGOING REVI- bly of the United Nations; that the were outspoken critics of the Syrian SIONS TO THE STRUCTURE OF THE nominations be confirmed, the motions RESERVE FORCES POLICY BOARD. domination of Lebanon. to reconsider be laid upon the table, Senator LUGAR, Senator SUNUNU and It is the sense of the Senate that, in light the President be immediately notified I are introducing a sense of the Senate of the wide range of views on the optimal of the Senate’s action, and the Senate structure of the Reserve Forces Policy Board resolution condemning the despicable return to legislative session. among the Commission on the National assassination of Antoine Ghanem and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Guard and Reserves, the Senate, the House urging that the international commu- objection, it is so ordered. of Representatives, the Department of De- nity continue its support for the gov- The nominations considered and con- fense, and the Reserve community, and in ernment and people of Lebanon. firmed en bloc are as follows: light of the absence of full and complete To the families of victims of Wednes- hearings in Congress on that structure, the Ted Poe, of Texas, to be a Representative day’s attack and to the people of Leb- Act authorizing appropriations for fiscal of the United States of America to the Sixty- year 2008 for military activities of the De- second Session of the General Assembly of anon, the Senate offers its deepest con- partment of Defense should not include revi- the United Nations. dolences for your losses. Wednesday’s sions to the structure of the Reserve Forces William Delahunt, of Massachusetts, to be attack seeks to undermine the inter- Policy Board. a Representative of the United States of national tribunal set up earlier this

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.036 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S12011 year to try the killers of Prime Min- Whereas, by agreement between the United to nearly 13,500 students from 101 Illi- ister Hariri and other Lebanese victims Nations and Lebanon, the special inter- nois counties, 43 other States, and 46 of political violence. So we call on the national tribunal can receive jurisdiction for nations. It offers a broad choice of de- Bush administration to redouble its other attacks in Lebanon that ‘‘are of a na- grees ranging from liberal arts to pro- support for the tribunal and to work to ture and gravity similar to the attack of 14 February 2005’’; and fessional studies. The university gives ensure that Wednesday’s crime is in- Whereas these continuing assassinations back to the surrounding community cluded in its jurisdiction. are intended to undermine the sovereignty of through programs, including its East These attacks on Lebanon must stop. Lebanon and damage its fragile democratic St. Louis Center, which provides social This resolution expresses bipartisan institutions: Now, therefore, be it services to families in East St. Louis support for holding accountable any Resolved, That the Senate— and surrounding urban communities. state sponsor or official implicated in (1) expresses its deepest condolences to the Each year, more than 8,000 individuals the string of political assassinations families of Antoine Ghanem and other vic- tims of the attack of September 19, 2007, as benefit from the programs and services beginning in February 2005. To many housed at the East St. Louis Center. an observer it is no accident that this well as to all the people of Lebanon; (2) condemns in the strongest terms this SIUE also contributes to the economic assassination occurred as we approach cowardly attack and urges that its perpetra- welfare of the entire region as both one the critical period during which Leb- tors, including any state sponsor or official, of the largest employers in Madison anon will choose its next president. be held accountable for their crimes; County and a producer of many grad- Many informed voices, both in and out (3) underscores its full support for the spe- uates who remain in the area after col- of Lebanon, are pointing to Damascus. cial international tribunal and urges the lege. The number of college graduates United Nations Security Council to extend So to the regime of Bashar al-Assad, in Madison and St. Clair counties has know that we in Washington are its jurisdiction to include the Ghanem assas- sination; risen from three percent to 20 percent, watching events in Lebanon very care- largely made up of SIUE graduates. fully. Lebanon must be free to choose (4) urges the President to increase coordi- nation with key partners in Europe and the These graduates give back to the com- its next president without intimidation Middle East to more actively support the munity every day, and the highly edu- or violence. sovereignty of Lebanon and strengthen its cated, skilled workforce they form is Lebanon’s enemies must understand governing institutions and security forces; one of the greatest resources in South- that they face a united international and ern Illinois. front. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, France, (5) reasserts its strong belief that the peo- and the broader European Union all ple of Lebanon should be permitted to choose If you visit the campus at SIUE, you have lead roles to play. So does the their next president, in a process scheduled will see some of the truly exceptional United States. So we call upon the to begin in September 2007, free from all for- and innovative educational programs international community to intensify eign intimidation, interference, and vio- taking place there today. The Univer- the efforts to support the people and lence. sity’s Senior Assignment Program, an fragile democratic institutions of Leb- f integrative learning experience re- anon. CONGRATULATING SOUTHERN IL- quired of all seniors, was ranked as a I yield the floor. LINOIS UNIVERSITY-EDWARDS- national model for learning assessment Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- VILLE ON ITS 50TH ANNIVER- by the Association of American Col- imous consent that the resolution be SARY leges and Universities in 2007. The SIU agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, School of Dental Medicine, the only Il- the motion to reconsider be laid upon Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- linois dental school outside Cook Coun- the table en bloc, and that any state- imous consent that the Senate proceed ty, is rated among the top dental ments relating to this matter be print- to the consideration of S. Res. 329. schools in the Nation on national board The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ed in the RECORD. dental exams and serves as a primary The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without clerk will state the resolution by title. oral healthcare provider for Southern objection, it is so ordered. The assistant legislative clerk read Illinois. SIUE’s University Park, an ap- The resolution (S. Res. 328) was as follows: plied research and technology park, is agreed to. A resolution (S. Res. 329) congratulating the home to the National Corn-to-Eth- The preamble was agreed to. Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville as anol Research Center which explores it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The resolution, with its preamble, the viability of alternative fuels. In reads as follows: There being no objection, the Senate athletics, SIUE is currently transition- S. RES. 328 proceeded to consider the resolution. ing to NCAA Division I status and Whereas Antoine Ghanem and at least 6 Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I rise proudly brought home the NCAA Divi- others were killed in a car-bomb attack in today to congratulate Southern Illinois sion II championship in softball in 2007. University Edwardsville, SIUE, as it the Sin el-Fil suburb of Beirut on September Over the last half century, Southern 19, 2007; marks its 50th year as a center of edu- Illinois University Edwardsville has Whereas Mr. Ghanem was a member of the cational advancement in Southern Illi- grown to become a tremendous asset to Parliament of Lebanon from the Lebanese nois. Southern Illinois University the students and citizens of Illinois. Kataeb Party representing the Baabda and Edwardsville marks its 50th anniver- Aley districts of Mount Lebanon; It’s my honor to congratulate the Uni- sary this year with a year-long celebra- Whereas Mr. Ghanem is the 6th member of versity on its 50th anniversary, and I tion that begins on September 24, 2007. the Parliament of Lebanon who had opposed look forward to many more years of ex- SIUE is a public university built by Syrian interference in Lebanon to be assas- cellence in education in the future. sinated since February 2005, including former the people of Illinois for the people of Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- Prime Minister of Lebanon Rafik Hariri, Illinois in response to the clear need former Economy and Trade Minister Bassel for a campus of higher education in the imous consent that the resolution be Fleihan, Gebran Tueni, Industry Minister Metro-East area of greater St. Louis. agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, Pierre Gemayel, and Walid Eido; Fifty years ago, only three percent of the motions to reconsider be laid upon Whereas other prominent figures in Leb- the adult population had completed the table, and that any statements re- anon who have opposed Syrian interference lating to the bill be printed in the in that country have also been assassinated four years of college. Since there was no nearby higher education center and RECORD. in the same time period, including politician The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without George Hawi and journalist Samir Kassir, most families could not afford the cost while others have escaped assassination at- of sending their kids far away for col- objection, it is so ordered. tempts, including Defense Minister Elias lege, the community appealed to The resolution (S. Res. 329) was Murr, Telecommunications Minister Marwan Southern Illinois University to estab- agreed to. Hamadeh, and television presenter May lish a satellite campus at Edwardsville. The preamble was agreed to. Chidiac; Today, SIUE continues to serve the The resolution, with its preamble, Whereas United Nations Security Council reads as follows: Resolution 1757 of May 30, 2007, created a spe- community that initiated its founding cial international tribunal to try suspects in and has helped improve the quality of S. RES. 329 the assassinations of former Prime Minister life for all citizens of the area. The uni- Whereas Southern Illinois University Hariri and others; versity has grown from 1,776 students Edwardsville (SIUE) will celebrate its 50th

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:34 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE6.020 S24SEPT1 bajohnson on PROD1PC69 with SENATE S12012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 24, 2007 anniversary with a year-long celebration, be- Resolved, That the Senate congratulates authorization bill; that on Tuesday, ginning September 24, 2007; Southern Illinois University Edwardsville the Senate stand in recess from 12:30 Whereas SIUE has grown from 1,776 stu- (SIUE) on its 50th anniversary, and wishes p.m. to 2:15 p.m. for the respective dents to nearly 13,500 students from 101 Illi- SIUE success in its continued service to the party conference meetings. Nation as a center of educational advance- nois counties, 43 other States, and 46 Na- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without tions; ment in Southern Illinois. objection, it is so ordered. Whereas SIUE has conferred more than f 90,000 degrees in its history and has more f than 75,000 alumni; ORDERS FOR TUESDAY, Whereas the SIUE School of Dental Medi- SEPTEMBER 25, 2007 ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. TOMORROW cine is rated among the top dental schools in Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- the Nation and provides more than $50,000 in imous consent that when the Senate Mr. REID. Mr. President, if there is free oral health care to children annually completes its business today, it stand no further business from the distin- through Give Kids a Smile Day; adjourned until 10 a.m., Tuesday, Sep- guished Republican leader, I ask unani- Whereas the SIUE East St. Louis Center is mous consent that the Senate stand dedicated to improving the lives of families tember 25; that on Tuesday, following and individuals in East St. Louis and sur- the prayer and the pledge, the Journal adjourned under the previous order. rounding urban communities; of proceedings be approved to date, the There being no objection, the Senate, Whereas the University finished 4th na- morning hour be deemed to have ex- at 7:04 p.m., adjourned until Tuesday, tionally in the United States Sports Acad- pired, the time for the two leaders be September 25, 2007, at 10 a.m. emy Directors’ Cup among National Colle- reserved for their use later in the day; f giate Athletic Association Division II that there then be a period of morning schools in 2006; business for 60 minutes, with Senators CONFIRMATIONS Whereas SIUE contributes roughly permitted to speak therein for up to 10 Executive nominations confirmed by $356,000,000 to the regional economy, and minutes each, with the time equally di- the Senate Monday, September 24, 2007: more than 37,000 alumni live in the region vided and controlled between the two and contribute to the economy; DEPARTMENT OF STATE leaders or their designees, with the Re- Whereas SIUE is the home of University TED POE, OF TEXAS, TO BE A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE Park, an applied research and technology publicans controlling the first half and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TO THE SIXTY-SECOND the majority controlling the final half; SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE UNITED park located on the SIUE campus that is NATIONS. home to the National Corn-to-Ethanol Re- that once morning business is closed, WILLIAM DELAHUNT, OF MASSACHUSETTS, TO BE A the Senate resume consideration of REPRESENTATIVE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA search Center and the Biotechnology Labora- TO THE SIXTY-SECOND SESSION OF THE GENERAL AS- tory Incubator: Now, therefore, be it H.R. 1585, the Department of Defense SEMBLY OF THE UNITED NATIONS.

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RECOGNIZING THE 25TH ANNIVER- position process prior to the enactment of the partner, friend, and guiding light for over fifty- SARY OF SHERWOOD OAKS Deficit Reduction Act but where the initial pro- four years. His daughters Julie Anderson and posed disposition was delayed. An example of Kathy Donovan are mothers, key members of HON. JASON ALTMIRE one such project is Parkview Apartments in their communities and accomplished women. OF PENNSYLVANIA Ypsilanti, Michigan. While I believe that this His sons Rick, Tom and Mike have carried on IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES particular project is already subject to the their father’s commitment to family, honor and grandfathering provision of the DRA, Section country. His son-in-law Walt Donovan served Monday, September 24, 2007 29 clarifies that such properties should be our Navy for thirty years. He is the proud Mr. ALTMIRE. Madam Speaker, I rise today considered ‘‘pre-DRA’’ properties, and that grandfather to Kelly Meissner, Ben Anderson, to recognize the 25th anniversary of Sherwood HUD should proceed with its prior disposition Alex Ullrich, Andrew Ullrich, Ned Ullrich, Liam Oaks, a nonprofit continuing care retirement contracts as to those properties. This clarifica- Donovan, Courtney Donovan, Rebecca Ullrich, community located in Cranberry Township, tion was requested by HUD and, in drafting Chris Ullrich, Taylor Ullrich, Rachel Ullrich, Pennsylvania. this provision, we were assisted by HUD staff and Jacob Ullrich; and great grandfather to This Silver Anniversary is not only note- and were assured that this language was the Lisa and Cara Meissner. worthy in itself, but the story behind Sherwood clarification the agency needed to proceed Madam Speaker, it is especially fitting that Oaks is quite extraordinary. Sherwood Oaks with the 2004 contract as to Parkview Apart- Carl Ullrich was chosen to be inducted into the was created by a handful of unpaid ‘‘ordinary’’ ments. Army Sports Hall of Fame at this time. With Pittsburgh-area seniors who, in seeking a f our nation at war and our society too often community in which they themselves wanted HONORING MR. CARL ULLRICH distracted by the excesses of some profes- to live, turned a farmers’ field into what has sional athletes, the leadership at West Point is since evolved into a vibrant senior living com- to be commended for allowing us all a mo- munity of some 400 residents. HON. JOE SESTAK ment to reflect on the achievements of an indi- OF PENNSYLVANIA These determined and ambitious dream- vidual who embodies all that is good and right IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ers—Sally Dewees, Martha Leonard, Jane T. in our country. Locke and Margaret McCoy—did their home- Monday, September 24, 2007 work by researching communities in the area Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise before f and around the country, and, in order to make you to honor Mr. Carl Ullrich for his induction IN REMEMBRANCE OF CHARLES their vision a reality, enthusiastically spread into the Army Sports Hall of Fame, his service VANIK their ideas within the community. to our nation in the U.S. Navy during World On September 1, 1982, the founders and War II and the U.S. Marine Corps during the the construction board—Norman and Sally Korean Conflict, his lifetime of service to our HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Dewees; Frank and Betty Hess; Jean and Nation’s student athletes, and as the patriarch OF OHIO Craig Stockdale; Dorothy Van der Vort; and of a remarkable and respected family. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Richard McCoy—realized the fruits of their Following his combat tour in Korea, Mr. Monday, September 24, 2007 labor when Sherwood Oaks officially opened Ullrich embarked on a life devoted to leading, its doors to its original 53 residents. teaching and coaching with an energy and ef- Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise I want to thank Paul Winkler, the president fectiveness that would profoundly and posi- today to honor the memory of one of our and CEO of Presbyterian SeniorCare for tively influence the lives of tens of thousands former colleagues, Congressman Charlie bringing this story to my attention. Paul serves of young men and women and their families. Vanik. For 26 years, he was an admirable as the board chair of PANPHA, an association For more than a half century, Mr. Ullrich was spokesman not only for the people of his dis- of some 360 nonprofit senior service providers an exemplar of integrity, accountability and de- trict, but for the Nation. throughout Pennsylvania, and I have asked cency at the Friends Academy in New York, During his time in office, Congressman him to convey my best wishes to the Sher- Irvington High School and Newark Academy in Vanik was one of Congress’s most vocal ad- wood Oaks community when he represents New Jersey, Cornell University, Columbia Uni- vocates for human rights. In 1974, he co-au- PANPHA at a celebratory event scheduled for versity, Boston University, Sanford Naval thored an amendment to a trade law that re- Friday, September 28. Academy, the United States Naval Academy, quired the United States to assess the human f Western Michigan University, the United rights records of foreign countries before granting them special privileges. This law put EXPANDING AMERICAN States Military Academy, The Patriot League pressure on the Soviet Union to allow freer HOMEOWNERSHIP ACT OF 2007 and St. Andrews Presbyterian College. He has been an ideal steward of the spirit of inter- emigration, and as a result, more than 2 mil- SPEECH OF collegiate athletics as envisioned by President lion people were able to leave the Soviet Theodore Roosevelt when he established the Union in search of a better life. HON. JOHN D. DINGELL Intercollegiate Athletic Association of the While he was a Member of Congress, he OF MICHIGAN United States in 1906. Just as President Roo- never forgot where he came from or the peo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sevelt wrote to his children, ‘‘I don’t want you ple he represented. During his time in office Tuesday, September 18, 2007 to sacrifice standing well in your studies to any he helped to pass several Federal programs, over-athleticism; and I need not tell you that including the Federal school lunch program, The House in Committee of the Whole that would help the people in his district and House on the State of the Union had under character counts for a great deal more than ei- consideration the bill (H.R. 1852) to mod- ther intellect or body in winning success in throughout the country improve their liveli- ernize and update the National Housing Act life,’’ so too did Carl Ullrich impress those hoods. In addition, he is remembered by his and enable the Federal Housing Administra- same values on his children, two generations former colleagues as a savvy, gifted speaker tion to use risk-based pricing to more effec- of student athletes, and many who administer who had the ability to make every person in a tively reach underserved borrowers, and for and legislate intercollegiate athletics. It is im- room smile. other purposes: portant to note that some of those student ath- Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join Mr. DINGELL. Madam Chairman, I rise letes have carried Mr. Ullrich’s ideals with me in remembering the life of Congressman today to speak in favor of H.R. 1852, the Ex- them as they served with great courage in our Charlie Vanik. May he rest in peace, and may panding American Homeownership Act of armed forces. For that alone, he deserves our his service to his country and to this body al- 2007. Section 29 of this bill is designed to sincerest thanks and appreciation. ways be remembered honorably. He is sur- clarify congressional intent regarding certain However, greatest of all his many accom- vived by his wife, Betty; his son, Jon; his properties that entered the HUD property dis- plishments is his family. His wife Becky is his daughter, Phyllis; and two grandchildren.

∑ 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 Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K24SE8.001 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1952 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 INTRODUCING THE HIGHER Mr. Torigiani has served as President of the Groups such as Defenders of Wildlife, EDUCATION SUSTAINABILITY ACT Buttonwillow Chamber of Commerce and is an Friends of the Sea Otter, The Otter Project, active member of the Buttonwillow Lions Club. and The Ocean Conservancy have raised HON. EARL BLUMENAUER In 1975, Mr. Torigiani was named as public awareness and helped protect this im- OF OREGON Buttonwillow’s Honorary Mayor. He has served portant species under the Marine Mammal IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on the Kern County Fair Beef Board for over Protection Act and the Endangered Species twenty years and, serving in this capacity, he Act. Due to these efforts, the southern sea Monday, September 24, 2007 has enjoyed every moment he has been affili- otter population has increased to more than Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, today ated with the Junior Livestock at the Kern 2,800 animals. I am pleased to introduce, along with my col- County Fair. Mr. Torigiani has shown his inter- However, these numbers are still signifi- league Representative VERN EHLERS, the est and dedication through countless hours cantly less than what is necessary to consider ‘‘Higher Education Sustainability Act of 2007.’’ helping young people raise livestock for the the population stable and their population This legislation authorizes funding for sustain- Kern County Fair. growth in recent years is slower than ex- ability programs in American colleges and uni- Mr. Torigiani married Sandy Bulluomini in pected. Researchers are beginning to identify versities to develop, implement, and evaluate 1965 and together they have two sons, Steve, indirect hazards for sea otters such as non- economic, environmental, and social sustain- who is an attorney and partner in Young point source pollution, pathogens, and entrap- ability programs. The legislation also directs Wooldridge Law Firm, and Jim, who is an en- ment in fisheries gear that are causing their the Secretary of Education to convene a sum- tomologist with Western Farm Service. His population growth to slow. Such realizations mit of higher education experts to showcase grandchildren, Tyler and Mia, are the light of support the need for continued research and best practices in the field of sustainability. his life and he looks forward to sharing the joy preventive measures to respond to these Hundreds of U.S. cities and companies as and tradition of the Kern County Fair with issues, while continuing to ward against the di- well as international agencies, including the them. rect killings/takings that still occur. United Nations and the World Business Coun- The leadership and commitment Mr. California has taken the first step toward ad- cil for Sustainable Development, are advanc- Torigiani has shown to the Kern County Fair dressing these emerging concerns by signing ing sustainable practices in all arenas. As pop- and the Kern County youth has never into law California Assembly Bill 2485, which ulation growth, urban development and ex- wavered. He personifies a man of principle establishes a State fund for sea otter con- treme weather incidents place greater stress and integrity. Mike Torigiani is a role model for servation. This year Californians had the op- on ecosystems around the globe; the need for all of us and it is with great pride that I con- tion of donating a portion of their tax returns developing innovative approaches to sustain- gratulate him for receiving this distinguished to sea otter conservation. To date, this has able development becomes critical to our eco- award and for all that he does for Kern County raised $145,000. However, this is a federally protected spe- nomic competitiveness, environmental health, residents. cies and the State cannot go it alone. In addi- and the strength of our communities. f tion to working with my colleagues to secure The ‘‘Higher Education Sustainability Act’’ Federal funds to support a continued and would facilitate the development of programs 2007 SEA OTTER AWARENESS complete recovery of the population, I am also that keep American students on the cutting WEEK introducing the Southern Sea Otter Recovery edge of technology and global competition and Research Act today. This bill provides for while benefiting our communities. The legisla- HON. SAM FARR research and recovery programs for the south- tion also provides funds to establish rigorous OF CALIFORNIA ern sea otter. benchmarks for evaluating programs, ensuring IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Madam Speaker, I applaud the many ac- that sustainability graduates meet industry Monday, September 24, 2007 complishments of Defenders of Wildlife and standards for best practices. With the threat of Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to other non-profit environmental organizations, global warming looming larger every day, we working with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, re- must invest now in the research and human call attention to the 5th Annual Sea Otter Awareness Week, September 23–29, 2007, searchers, fishermen, State and Federal agen- capital needed to address its impacts and sus- cies, schools, and many other institutions and tain our economy and our communities. sponsored by Defenders of Wildlife. This week-long event provides the opportunity to individuals, who devote tremendous effort to f educate the broader public about sea otters, protect and recover the southern/California IN HONOR OF MIKE TORIGIANI their natural history, the integral role that sea sea otter. Sea Otter Awareness Week is just otters play in the near-shore marine eco- one of their many activities geared towards system, and the conservation issues they are honoring and saving this species, and I am HON. JIM COSTA proud to be associated with this vital work. OF CALIFORNIA facing. f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In the past, the killing of these animals for their fur brought their numbers down to less NEVER HURT SOMEONE YOU LOVE Monday, September 24, 2007 than 100 by the 1930s. The decline of south- Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to ern sea otter populations not only has impacts HON. TED POE congratulate Mr. Mike Torigiani of on the species itself, but also affects other OF TEXAS Buttonwillow, California for receiving the 2007 marine populations and the surrounding eco- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Agriculturist of the Year Award from the Kern system. For instance, the demise of sea otters County Fair. His dedication to young partici- allows their prey sea urchins to proliferate un- Monday, September 24, 2007 pants of 4–H and Future Farmers of America checked, which leads to the alarming over- Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, for too many among other activities make Mike Torigiani grazing of kelp beds—one of the ocean’s people in this country, love comes with most deserving of this honor. nursery grounds for many marine animals. In bruises, broken bones, and black eyes. Twen- Mike Torigiani was born in Kern County in particular, research shows that the absence of ty years ago, the first Domestic Violence 1943 during World War II. Son of Gino and sea otters has a direct link to the sharp de- Awareness Month was observed. In the past Olympia Torigiani, Mike attended Buttonwillow cline of kelp along portions of California’s 20 years, there are programs, education, and Elementary School and graduated from coast. Sea otter research also has proven to funding dedicated to preventing domestic vio- Shafter High School. Immediately following be an effective method of monitoring toxins lence, but domestic violence is still a dan- high school, Mr. Torigiani attended Bakersfield and diseases in the marine environment, both gerous reality for too many Americans. One in College for two years, after which he began of which can affect the health of humans and every four women will be a victim of domestic his farming career. other wildlife. violence during her lifetime. But domestic vio- Mr. Torigiani formed a partnership with his The presence of the California sea otter has lence doesn’t discriminate—it affects every- uncle Oliver entitled O & M Farms. After 3 become an icon of the State’s coastal environ- one—men, women, and children of every years of farming in that partnership, he de- ment and culture, and these charismatic ani- race, ethnicity, religion, and economic status. cided to join his father and brother in busi- mals bring significant tourism revenue to Cali- It affects the workplace, increases health care ness. Mr. Torigiani and his brother, Ron fornian coastal communities. Protecting them costs, and spurs even more violence among Torigiani, own and operate Torigiani Farms, is not only directly advantageous to the otter children who witness it at home. The cost of which is a third generation business estab- population, but also fosters indirect benefits on domestic violence is staggering—over $5.8 bil- lished in 1970. a greater scale. lion each year. Domestic violence happens

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.004 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1953 during dating and in marriages. Children who Dr. Baier’s son Mike enlisted in the Marine TRIBUTE TO DR. MITCHELL witness domestic violence at home do poorly Corps last spring and is currently stationed in ROSENTHAL in school, use drugs and alcohol at an early Iraq. In part because of his son’s service and age, and are more likely to engage in violent his specialized surgical knowledge, Dr. Baier HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR. behavior themselves. Boys who witness do- joined the Army Reserve’s medical corps. On OF NEW JERSEY mestic violence are twice as likely to abuse August 9, he was commissioned as a major IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES their own partners and children when they be- and will report for training in the coming Monday, September 24, 2007 come adults. months. As a former prosecutor and judge, I founded Mr. PASCRELL. Madam Speaker, I would the Congressional Victim Rights Caucus to ad- Like many serving in our Reserve forces, like to call your attention to the life and work vocate for crime victims. I sponsored H. Res. Dr. Baier brings with him an expertise that will of an outstanding individual whom I feel fortu- 590 to declare October 2007 as National Do- be an incredible asset to our military. Our men nate to have known. The late Dr. Mitchell mestic Violence Awareness Month. October and women in the military deserve nothing but Rosenthal of Vauxhall, NJ, passed away sud- will raise awareness of the increasing number the finest medical care possible and I am denly in May at the age of 58. of abusers who murder their victims and then grateful that we have individuals like Dr. Baier For people who did not know Dr. Rosenthal, take their own lives, in addition to the financial to provide that care. For all the men and he was part of the small group of founders of strain experienced by domestic violence vic- women serving in the 10th Congressional Dis- the National Head Injury Foundation, now known as the Brain Injury Association of tims, including loss of employment and loss of trict, from active duty to Reserve, as well as America. Traumatic brain injury is the leading housing. In October, thousands of victim advo- their families, we are honored by your sac- cause of death and disability among young cacy organizations, State coalitions, and com- rifices and selfless dedication to the Nation. munity groups will hold events to bring aware- Americans in the United States. We are a stronger country because of individ- During his renowned life, Dr. Rosenthal was ness to the violence that affects men, women, uals like Dr. Baier. and children every single year. Community the Chief Operating Officer for Kessler Medical Rehabilitation Research and Education Cor- awareness about domestic violence allows vic- f tims to seek help—it creates shelters for do- poration in West Orange, NJ, and Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the mestic violence victims to seek refuge in, HONORING BOB MIZER holds abusers accountable, and helps children University of Medicine and Dentistry of New live in nonviolent homes. Jersey. In the past, Congress’s support of this HON. TOM DAVIS He also served on several committees and month has led to an increasing number of boards dedicated to brain injury research and local community groups, religious organiza- OF VIRGINIA education, including the TBI National Data- base Center, funded by the National Institute tions, health care provides, corporations, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES media addressing domestic violence in com- on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, and munities. Monday, September 24, 2007 the American Psychological Association. Fur- Congress has been instrumental in increas- ther, he served as the President of the Amer- ing the funding for programs located under the Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speak- ican Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine in Violence Against Women Act, VAWA, but er, I rise today to honor Mr. Bob Mizer on the 1992. there is still a need for further awareness of occasion of his becoming an honorary mem- Dr. Rosenthal received many awards during domestic violence. Let’s send a message to ber of the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department, his career; he published more than 80 peer-re- domestic violence victims that Congress is VVFD. viewed articles, books, and book chapters, their voice. And that’s just the way it is. and he delivered more than 200 presentations Mr. Mizer is a 1964 graduate of the United at major national and international meetings, f States Naval Academy. A retired naval officer, primarily related to brain injury rehabilitation. HONORING 10TH DISTRICT SERVICE he moved to Fairfax County, VA, in 1979 and As co-chair of the Congressional Brain In- MEN AND WOMEN has been an exemplary model of service with- jury Task Force, I had the privilege of working in the county ever since. with Dr. Rosenthal on the issues of TBI edu- HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK In July 2000, he took the position of volun- cation, services and research funding here in Congress. OF ILLINOIS teer liaison for the VVFD. The VVFD is a vol- The brain injury community has lost a great IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES unteer organization that works in conjunction with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue De- advocate. Dr. Rosenthal will be deeply missed Monday, September 24, 2007 by those who knew him, and by those whose partment in order to provide the fire depart- lives he has bettered through his dedication to Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor ment with supplemental staffing, as well as those who wear the uniform and serve their brain injury research and education. additional units such as an ambulance and en- He leaves a legacy of true leadership, intel- Nation in the U.S. armed services. We have gine. VVFD owns and maintains the station more than 1.3 million active duty troops sta- lectual honesty, and total commitment to oth- and its equipment, while Fairfax County pro- ers. I would like to offer my condolences to tioned throughout the world, and we owe vides 24-hour staffing with paid firefighters and these men and women much for their dedica- the Rosenthal family, his wife Margaret, and paramedics on three shifts. tion and service. As a Naval Reserve intel- his children Michelle and David. ligence officer who just returned from 2 weeks Mr. Mizer left his position as volunteer liai- The job of a United States Congressman in- of active duty in August, I would also like to son on September 4, 2007, but will continue volves so much that is rewarding, yet nothing thank those who serve in our military’s Re- as president of the Burke Volunteer Fire De- compares to working with and recognizing the serve forces. More than 800,000 Americans partment. efforts of dedicated community servants like serve in the seven Reserve branches, includ- Dr. Mitchell Rosenthal. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to Madam Speaker, I ask that you join our col- ing the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, extend my heartfelt thanks to Bob Mizer for leagues, everyone gathered this evening, Navy Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Air Na- his years of service and dedication to the Mitchell’s family and friends, and me in recog- tional Guard, Air Force Reserve and Coast VVFD. The events of September 11, 2001 nizing the late Dr. Mitchell Rosenthal’s out- Guard Reserve. serve as a reminder of the sacrifices our Several weeks ago, I learned of one indi- standing service to his community. vidual in my district that demonstrates the emergency service workers make for us each f day. These individuals’ continuous efforts on strong commitment to community and country ELEVENTH ANNUAL ROTORFEST that every Reserve enlisted person and officer behalf of Fairfax County citizens are para- has. mount to preserving security, law and order HON. JOE SESTAK Tom Baier resides in Libertyville, IL, where throughout our community. Their selfless acts OF PENNSYLVANIA the 53-year-old doctor has an orthopedic sur- of heroism truly merit our highest praise. I ask IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gery practice. He serves as a team physician my colleagues to join me in saluting Mr. Mizer, for several local youth sports teams, as well and congratulating him on being named an Monday, September 24, 2007 as a teacher for other doctors for arthroscopic honorary member of the Vienna Volunteer Fire Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today ACL reconstruction surgery. Department. in recognition of the Eleventh Annual Rotorfest

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.007 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1954 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 presented by the American Helicopter Mu- ing students overcome the hurdles in their Vietnam, he was assigned to Marine Barracks, seum and Education Center. lives. He has founded or directed countless Washington, DC, where he served as Security Every October more than 12,000 people programs to support peer tutoring and commu- Detachment Commander, Camp David; White gather at the Brandywine Airport in West nity service for young people. His work has House Social Aide; and Platoon Leader, Spe- Chester, Pennsylvania for Rotorfest, a week- enabled people of all ages in our community cial Ceremonial Platoon. end festival devoted to promoting rotary flight to take control of their lives, and to reach out General Pace has held command at virtually mechanics. This year’s festival takes place on and help others who may need support. every level, and served in overseas billets in October 13th and 14th. Mr. Nussbaum has also been tireless in his Nam Phong, Thailand; Seoul, Korea; and This year’s All Helicopter Air Show features work with a wide ranging group of organiza- Yokota, Japan. While serving as President, the U.S. Army Special Operations Command tions benefiting our community. I have been Marine Corps University, then Brigadier Gen- Parachute Demonstration Team, known as the personally privileged to see the work he did as eral Pace also served as Deputy Commander, Black Daggers. a founding member and president of Aldea, Marine Forces, Somalia, from December There are three shows a day featuring mili- helping to provide for some of the area’s 1992–February 1993, and as the Deputy Com- tary and civilian helicopters performing neediest children. As an advisor to the Cali- mander, Joint Task Force–Somalia from Octo- choreographed flight demonstrations. fornia legislature on educational policy and ber 1993–March 1994. The American Helicopter Museum and Edu- community service programming, he has lent After an assignment as the Director for Op- cation Center is committed to preserving the his expertise to our State’s policy makers. He erations (J–3), on the Joint Staff in Wash- history of rotary flight mechanics. has been of the greatest service to Napa ington, DC, then Lieutenant General Pace The museum is dedicated to educating the County, serving on the Commissions on Chil- served as the Commander, U.S. Marine Corps public with programs about the principles of dren, Youth and Families; Mental Health Serv- Forces, Atlantic/Europe/South. He was pro- flight, the innovators of aviation and to encour- ices Act Advisory Board; and the Opera moted to Generaleral and assumed duties as age future scientists and innovators. House Board. the Commander in Chief, United States South- The museum features eight hands-on heli- Madam Speaker, at this time it is appro- ern Command in September 2000. copters where visitors can test their flying priate that we recognize Mr. Harris Nussbaum General Peter Pace was sworn in as the skills. for his work on behalf of Napa County’s chil- sixteenth Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff This year the museum features the only V– dren. He richly deserves recognition as Our on September 30, 2005, giving him the distinc- 22 Osprey on exhibit in the world. New to the Children’s Hero, and I know he will continue to tion of being the first Marine to serve in this museum’s collection this year is a Boeing support the superb services he has helped role. In this capacity, he served as the prin- M360, an experimental, all composite heli- create for our children. cipal military advisor to the President, the Sec- copter that came close to breaking the world’s f retary of Defense, the National Security Coun- speed record. cil, and the Homeland Security Council. Prior TRIBUTE TO GENERAL PETER to becoming Chairman, General Pace served I am pleased to celebrate the eleventh year PACE, CHAIRMAN OF THE JOINT as the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of of this festival that is fun for all ages. I am CHIEFS OF STAFF Staff from October 2001 to August 2005, also thankful to the American Helicopter Museum earning him the distinction as the first Marine and Education Center for their dedication to to have served in this capacity. preserving the history and promoting the fu- HON. IKE SKELTON General Pace and his wife, Lynne, have a ture of rotary based flight. OF MISSOURI son, Peter, a daughter, Tiffany Marie, and a I ask that everyone to join me in com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES daughter-in-law, Lynsey Olczak Pace. mending the American Helicopter Museum Monday, September 24, 2007 General Pace represented the U.S. Armed and Education Center for their commitment to Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, today I Forces with great distinction for the past 2 educating and entertaining the public. want to recognize and pay tribute to a true pa- years as its senior military officer and through- f triot and exceptional leader of our military, out his more than four decades of service to HONORING HARRIS SAUL General Peter Pace, Chairman of the Joint our great Nation. He is a highly respected NUSSBAUM Chiefs of Staff, for his more than 40 years of source of military counsel for our country’s dedicated service to the U.S. Armed Forces leaders, always keeping at the forefront the and to our country. best interests of our men and women in uni- HON. MIKE THOMPSON General Pace was born in Brooklyn, NY, form. General Pace is known for his thoughtful OF CALIFORNIA and grew up in Teaneck, NJ. A 1967 graduate manner, his sense of humor, and his integrity. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the U.S. Naval Academy, he holds a Mas- One Pace trademark we have all come to ter’s Degree in Business Administration from value is his constant consideration of ‘‘PFC Monday, September 24, 2007 The George Washington University and at- Pace’’ in all military-related discussion, thereby Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam tended Harvard University for the Senior Ex- ensuring the President, the Secretary of De- Speaker, I rise today to honor Harris Nuss- ecutives in National and International Security fense, the National Security Council, the baum, who is being recognized as the first program. The General is also a graduate of Homeland Defense Council, and this body of Our Children’s Hero honoree by the If Given the Infantry Officers’ Advanced Course at Fort Congress consider the impact of their deci- a Chance Foundation during their first annual Benning, Georgia; the Marine Corps Com- sions on even the most junior members of our ‘‘Chance Encounter’’ event. Mr. Nussbaum is mand and Staff College, in Quantico, Virginia; military. General Pace’s leadership signifi- being honored for his remarkable work and and the National War College, at Ft. McNair, cantly contributed to the success of military the positive contributions he has made in the Washington, DC. operations in recent years and improved the lives of young people in the Napa Valley and In 1968, upon completion of The Basic security of the United States. beyond. School, Quantico, Virginia, General Pace was General Pace took every opportunity to rec- If Given a Chance was founded in 1994 by assigned to the 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st ognize the tremendous efforts of the 2.4 mil- a group of concerned Napa citizens who want- Marine Division in the Republic of Vietnam, lion active, guard and reserve members of the ed to find ways to help address the myriad serving first as a Rifle Platoon Leader and Armed Forces, and he likewise recognized the problems young people face. In 1995, they subsequently as Assistant Operations Officer. invaluable dedication and sacrifices of the made their first awards to a diverse group of He joined his platoon, their third platoon lead- family members who sustain our all-recruited young adults who had overcome unusual chal- er in as many weeks, during the battle for Hue force. During his tenure as Chairman and Vice lenges, including a young single mother, City. He was decorated for valor during his Chairman, General Pace traveled more than former gang members, and a young man with tour in Vietnam, yet General Pace holds as 715,000 miles to meet with his counterparts cerebral palsy. Now, If Given a Chance annu- one of his most valued treasures the photo of around the world, and visit troops stationed ally awards $150,000 in scholarships to young LCpl Guido Farinaro, the first Marine he lost in overseas and across the United States. people from around the region. combat. The lance corporal’s forever young Madam Speaker, I know the Members of Mr. Nussbaum has been a positive and in- likeness is under the glass on General Pace’s the House will join me in paying tribute to fluential force in the lives of Napa’s children desk, each day reminding him of the impact of General Pace and in thanking him for his dedi- for many years. He has been a teacher, help- his decisions as a military leader. Following cated leadership to our country.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.011 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1955 CONGRATULATING SANDY TRIBUTE TO FELIX CHIN FOR HONORING SUSAN E. COX, NEWLY INSALACO, RECIPIENT OF THE OVER FOUR DECADES OF SERV- APPOINTED MAGISTRATE JUDGE ‘‘LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT ICE TO THE CONGRESS FOR THE U.S. DISTRICT COURT AWARD’’ FROM THE ITALIAN FOR THE NORTHERN DISTRICT AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF OF ILLINOIS LUZERNE COUNTY HON. ELIJAH E. CUMMINGS OF MARYLAND HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI OF ILLINOIS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF PENNSYLVANIA Monday, September 24, 2007 Monday, September 24, 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. CUMMINGS. Madam Speaker, I rise Mr. LIPINSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Susan E. Cox, an outstanding attor- Monday, September 24, 2007 today to recognize Mr. Felix Chin for his out- standing, dedicated, and professional service ney, who was appointed as a United States Mr. KANJORSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise to the United States Congress. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Il- today to ask you and my esteemed colleagues linois on August 27, 2007. A resident of La- Mr. Chin’s federal service started in 1959, Grange, Illinois, in the Third Congressional in the House of Representatives to pay tribute when he honorably served his country in the to Sandy Insalaco, of Luzerne County, Penn- District, Judge Cox has demonstrated out- United States Army. His 3 years in the U.S. standing integrity and intelligence throughout sylvania, who is this year’s recipient of the Army included a tour of duty in Vietnam. His ‘‘Lifetime Achievement Award’’ given by the her distinguished career. I am pleased to con- service to Congress began in 1965 in the Li- gratulate her on this well deserved appoint- Italian American Association of Luzerne Coun- brary of Congress’ Aerospace Technology Di- ty. ment. vision where he translated and analyzed intel- Before her designation as Magistrate Judge, A principal of Insalaco Development Group, ligence documents from Chinese sources on Ms. Cox held a wide array of positions within Sandy’s company develops, owns and oper- economic, political, military and social affairs the field of law. Most recently, she practiced ates commercial real estate in Pennsylvania, in Communist . He then served as an both civil and criminal law in her own private New York and New Jersey. economics bibliographer in the Library Serv- practice, and she also spent 8 years as an As- He is president and chief executive officer of ices Division of the Congressional Research sistant U.S. Attorney, as well as 3 years as a Nature’s Way Purewater, a bottler of private Service beginning in 1969. After more than 38 law clerk to U.S. District Judge Wayne R. An- label spring, distilled and reverse osmosis years, he has concluded his library career as derson. During her 11 years of civil practice, water for supermarket chain stores and other a senior bibliographer and information re- Ms. Cox gained expertise in cases regarding clients throughout the United States and Can- search specialist and will be retiring in the employment, commercial, and patent infringe- ada. ‘‘Old Line State.’’ ment. Ms. Cox’s many experiences and tal- Mr. Insalaco is chairman of the board of di- During his tenure with CRS, Mr. Chin re- ents led her to be appointed by the federal rectors of Landmark Community Bank sponded to numerous congressional inquiries court to assist in monitoring the employment headquartered in Pittston, Pennsylvania, and on economics-related research and authored actions of the City of Chicago. She also has with offices in Forty Fort, Scranton and many CRS annotated bibliographies and other devoted her valuable time to sharing her Stroudsburg Pennsylvania. information research products for Congress. knowledge with others by serving as an ad- He assisted in the development of SCORPIO junct professor at DePaul University College of He is a past chairman and now a member through his participation on the SCORPIO Ad- Law. of the board of trustees of Misericordia Univer- visory Group and participated in the imple- As a Magistrate, Judge Cox will employ the sity. mentation of other congressional services same insightfulness and passion for the law Mr. Insalaco has served on the board of such as the Selective Dissemination of Infor- that she has acquired in her many past experi- trustees of the Mercy HealthCare Foundation mation Service. In 1973, he received a Meri- ences and accomplishments. Some of her du- since it was established by the late Monsignor torious Service Award for the large burden he ties will include presiding over civil cases and Andrew J. McGowan and he served as chair- carried as the only CRS economics bibliog- misdemeanor criminal cases with the consent man of that foundation. Mercy HealthCare rapher. He also received a Special Achieve- of the parties, conducting preliminary pro- Foundation supports health initiatives for the ment Award in 2004 for the creative training ceedings in criminal cases, and assisting the underserved in northeastern Pennsylvania. he presented to Government and Finance Di- District Court Judges with pretrial motions, evi- Mr. Insalaco started his business career in vision analysts in the use of databases in the dentiary proceedings, and settlement negotia- 1957, joining his brother, Michael, in the retail areas of international banking and foreign tions. food business. The company grew from one debt, and treaties. He was recognized by ana- It is my honor to recognize Susan E. Cox as small store to 14 supermarkets located in lysts in the former CRS Economics Division she takes a new step in her career as a Mag- Luzerne, Lackawanna, Monroe and Wayne for his research expertise, bibliographic sup- istrate Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Counties in Pennsylvania. The company was port, and enormous contribution to their work. Northern District of Illinois. Her integrity, expe- sold in 1993. He is greatly admired and respected by his rience, and passion for the law will greatly colleagues and friends throughout the Con- benefit the U.S. District Court. It is also my Mr. Insalaco served on the board of direc- gressional Research Service. privilege and pleasure to congratulate Mag- tors of the former United Penn Bank in Wilkes- istrate Judge Cox for this milestone in her life Barre. He also served as chairman and a Mr. Chin received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from George Wash- and commend her on her many contributions member of the board of directors of Affiliated to the field of law. Food Distributors, Inc., Scranton, Pennsyl- ington University in 1968 and a master’s de- f vania. gree in Supervision and Management from Central Michigan University in 1979 as a He has been actively involved with fund- TRIBUTE TO NEOSHO LAW member of the first graduating class at the Li- ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS raising for St. Maria Goretti Church, the Great- brary. Mr. Chin is a dedicated and kind men- er Hazleton Philharmonic Society, the Greater tor; he has inspired many young professionals Pittston Memorial Library, Mercy HealthCare to begin and continue a public service career. HON. ROY BLUNT Foundation and Misericordia University. OF MISSOURI Madam Speaker, I am pleased to join Felix IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Insalaco and his wife, Marlene, have 2 Chin’s colleagues, family, and friends in com- sons, Sandy Jr., and Michael. They also have memorating his nearly 50 years of Federal Monday, September 24, 2007 five grandchildren. service. It is my honor to have this opportunity Mr. BLUNT. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay Madam Speaker, please join me in con- to wish him well as he embarks on his well- tribute to a group of law enforcement officers gratulating Mr. Insalaco on this special occa- deserved retirement. In addition, I join my con- whose quick thinking and courageous inter- sion which honors a lifetime of extraordinary gressional colleagues in thanking Mr. Chin for vention saved lives and ended a tragic shoot- achievement that has touched the lives of his many years of service to Congress and ing spree earlier this summer in southwest many people and improved the quality of life wish him much success in his future endeav- Missouri. It was a shooting that left three peo- throughout northeastern Pennsylvania. ors. ple dead and several others wounded at the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.015 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1956 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 First Congregational Church in Neosho, Mo., and mystery, one thing we can be sure of is prostate cancer, and the numbers produced and it happened on August 12th of this year. that having skilled officers and decisive leader- by this disease are indeed staggering. Over The events of that day startled the Nation, ship were essential to bringing a quick end to 200,000 men will be diagnosed in the United shocked the tight-knit town of Neosho, and it. States this year. One in every six American devastated the small Micronesian community These men willfully put themselves in the males will have prostate cancer at some point in the area from which the victims of these line of fire to rescue their friends and neigh- during his life. Prostate cancer is the most senseless and depraved acts of violence bors. The team led by Chief McCracken con- common type of non-skin cancer in the coun- came. The shootings occurred during the early sisted of Neosho Police Officer Cameron try, and will kill approximately 27,000 men this afternoon church services near downtown Kruse and Cpl. Donn Hall, Newton County year alone. Neosho, with the first call for help coming at Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Chris Jennings, Sgt. Twenty-seven thousand fewer husbands, fa- 1:54 p.m. Within minutes, officers from the David Trimble and Deputy Dale Brashers and thers, uncles, best friends, and mentors be- Neosho Police Department, the Newton Coun- Trooper ‘‘Corky’’ Burr of the Missouri State cause of prostate cancer, Madam Speaker. ty Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri Highway Highway Patrol. This is not a disease that we can afford to ig- Patrol were on the scene and organizing a These are men of extraordinary valor, but nore. plan to put this nightmare to an end. several of their colleagues in the department Fortunately, we are not helpless in our fight Officers arriving first were told a lone gun- are also worthy of mention as well. On March against this killer. If caught early and treated man had burst into the church and begun fir- 16th of this year, Neosho City Police Sergeant correctly, prostate cancer can be managed ing, severely injuring several people and pos- Dan Cook tried to execute, what appeared at and overcome. In fact, nearly all patients who sibly wounding a good deal more. The condi- the time, a routine traffic stop. Unfortunately, identify that they have prostate cancer in its tions of the victims were unknown. Several the driver had a handgun ready and opened early stages survive and go on to live healthy members of the congregation fled the church fire as Cook approached the car. Although adult lives. and the gunman ordered that other children Cook was hit in the arm, he returned to his ve- The problem is that early-stage prostate take leave. But as many as 30 worshipers re- hicle and chased the assailant down for sev- cancer exhibits no symptoms. As a result, mained held at gunpoint at the moment the of- eral miles. During the chase, one of his col- early and vigorous screening is absolutely crit- ficers arrived. leagues—Officer Michael Sharp—was wound- ical for doctors to find the 27,000 American Neosho Police Chief David McCracken, who ed in the face. Another Missouri State Troop- men who won’t catch their prostate cancer was in charge at the scene, issued a com- er, G. H. Hendrix, traded gunfire with the early enough, and who will die as a result. mand decision that would bring a quick and wanted man. Because of their determined pur- Screening will become an even more impor- positive end to situation. Within minutes, suit, the man was later apprehended without tant part of our fight against prostate cancer McCracken had organized an impromptu team further incident, arrested and booked on eight as the baby boom generation comes of age. Males between the ages of 50 and 65 are par- of experienced officers from three different separate felony charges. ticularly susceptible to prostate cancer, and agencies schooled in special weapons and Each day our peace officers face these dan- this pool of men over 50 will only get larger in tactics. After hearing another gunshot from in- gers and each day they confront the people the near future. In today’s United States, a side the church, the seven-man team entered who would do harm to law-abiding citizens. man turns 50 years old about every fourteen the sanctuary through a side door into the Each of these men is a dedicated public serv- ant who knows how to do his job, and was not seconds. building. As a result, the aggregate risk to our society Inside they found a 52-year-old man armed afraid to use his training and expertise to end posed by prostate cancer will only rise as that with two handguns—one of them pointed at the awful tragedies with which they were pre- huge swath of people born in the 1950s con- sented. the head of a female hostage. In a corner of tinues to age. Our fight against this killer will the church, the gunman had gathered around Facing a deranged gunman who has al- ready shown the capacity to kill—and the will- only become more challenging, Madam 30 members of the congregation, and posi- Speaker, even as we increase the quality of tioned them around him. Nearby lay three ingness to kill some more—is a situation that requires cool heads and professional training. our screening, treatment, and research related people mortally wounded, including two pas- to the disease. Not a single one of these law enforcement of- tors and a deacon of the church, and five oth- That is why awareness will be so critical in ficers would call himself a hero. But here ers clinging to life. As they entered the church, the near future. The more people we make the gunman ordered the officers to leave. today, I will suggest that’s exactly what they aware of the risks of prostate cancer, the bet- They told him to put down his weapon. And, are. ter our chances of curing them before it is too To the praise already bestowed on them by perhaps recognizing his choice was either to late. National Prostate Cancer Awareness the Governor, the state legislature, the Neo- comply with the demand or face a penalty Month is a vital part of this mission. Every sho City Council and county officials, I add a similar to the one he imposed on his victims, year in September, prostate cancer advocates, ‘‘well done and thank you’’ for your dedication he did just that. survivors, patients, and policy leaders height- to your profession and for putting your lives on In those tense moments, officers made it en awareness of this disease. This is not just the line in defense of your community. clear they intended to use deadly force to end a feel-good exercise, Madam Speaker. It the standoff. The confrontation with officers f saves lives and keeps families together. lasted less than 10 minutes. Eiken Elam SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND In many ways, the growth in Federal re- Saimon gave up his handguns and was taken IDEALS OF NATIONAL PROSTATE search spending into this disease can be into custody. He has been charged with mul- CANCER AWARENESS MONTH traced to the positive effects and outreach of tiple offenses, including three counts of capital National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. A murder. Found inside the church were Micro- HON. DORIS O. MATSUI disease which once received $86 million for nesian-American pastor, Kernel Rehobson, 43; research is now a $466 million priority for OF CALIFORNIA his uncle, Intenson Rehobson, 44; and medical researchers around the country. This IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kuhpes Jesse Ikosia, 53. huge success is due in large part to the tire- Newton County Sheriff Ken Copeland said Monday, September 24, 2007 less advocacy of the National Prostate Cancer the quick action of the SWAT team saved Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today Coalition, working with so many partners in lives, and I don’t have any doubt that he’s to introduce a resolution that is designed to support of National Prostate Cancer Aware- right. He believes, as I do, that many other give comfort to the millions of American fami- ness Month. residents and civic leaders in Newton County lies who struggle with prostate cancer. For the sixth year in a row, the United would have been lost without the team’s rapid September is National Prostate Cancer States Senate and the President have issued response and decisive decision-making. Awareness Month. Because of the way pros- resolutions supporting National Prostate Can- Let me add special praise to Neosho Police tate cancer affects our society, awareness is cer Awareness Month. The House of Rep- Chief McCracken, who—as I mentioned—was one of the most powerful tools we have to resentatives has never joined them, Madam the commanding officer on the scene. With combat and defeat it. With this resolution, Speaker, until today. shots still being heard inside the church, Chief Congress has an opportunity to lend its voice With the resolution I now introduce with my McCracken acted without hesitation to lead to the communities, families, and individuals colleague Mr. LATHAM of Iowa, the people’s the SWAT team in and bring to an end the who are fighting to find a cure for an illness House will finally be on record supporting the armed threat, preventing the loss of additional that kills more than 27,000 men every year. worthy goals of National Prostate Cancer life. Though the events leading up to this trag- It is easy to get caught up in statistics when Awareness Month. Millions of American fami- edy will forever be the object of speculation talking about massive health challenges like lies around the country deserve the help of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.018 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1957 House of Representatives in their fight against However, I want you to know I would have ture by improving the water, sewer, and drain- this silent killer, and I urge all my colleagues recorded ‘‘yes’’ votes for these recorded votes. age systems, creating two parks, and increas- to join me in supporting this timely and over- They included: (1) H. Res. 257—Supporting ing the number of town employees to provide due resolution. the goals and ideals of Pancreatic Cancer services to the community. He also estab- f Awareness Month, and; H. Res. 643—Recog- lished the first Christmas parade and magnolia nizing September 11 as a day of remem- festival in Lynchburg. PERSONAL EXPLANATION brance, extending sympathies to those who Clifton Jefferson was an active member of lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and Warren Chapel United Methodist Church, and HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL their families, honoring the heroic actions of held various positions on boards in Lee Coun- OF ARIZONA our nation’s first responders and Armed ty and in South Carolina. His memberships in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Forces, and reaffirming the commitment to de- cluded: the South Carolina Conference of Monday, September 24, 2007 fending the people of the United States Black Mayors, National Conference of Black Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I am writ- against any and all future challenges. Mayors, the World Conference of Black May- ing regarding today’s rollcall votes 865, H. f ors, South Carolina Municipal Association, Lee County Teachers Association, South Carolina Res. 257, supporting the goals and ideals of TRIBUTE TO THE LATE CLIFTON J. Teachers Association, National Teachers As- Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and JEFFERSON 866, H. Res. 643, recognizing September 11 sociation, NAACP, Lee County Chapter of SC as a day of remembrance, extending sym- State Alumni, South Carolina Morticians Asso- pathies to those who lost their lives on Sep- HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN ciation, National Morticians Association, Flor- tember 11, 2001, and their families, honoring OF SOUTH CAROLINA ence Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fra- the heroic actions of our Nation’s first re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ternity and the National Chapter of Kappa sponders and Armed Forces, and reaffirming Monday, September 24, 2007 Alpha Psi Fraternity. the commitment to defending the people of the Mr. CLYBURN. Madam Speaker, I rise He was married to the former Gwendolyn United States against any and all future chal- today to pay tribute to a former mayor, educa- Weaver, and the couple had six children, six lenges. tor and businessman who dedicated his life to grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Please accept my apologies as I was meet- his hometown of Lynchburg, South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I ask you and all the ing with constituents in my district and was not The town is dedicating a park in honor of the members of this esteemed body to join me in able to cast my votes tonight. It was my inten- late Clifton J. Jefferson on October 6, 2007, recognizing the extraordinary work of Clifton J. tion to vote ‘‘yes’’ on both resolutions. and I believe it is fitting that the U.S. Congress Jefferson. I also commend the Town of Lynch- f honors his public service as well. burg for honoring their late mayor’s great work HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVER- Clifton Jefferson was born in Lynchburg on by naming a park in his memory. This will SARY OF SAINT PHILOMENA September 10, 1923. Raised by his grand- serve as a lasting tribute for a gentle giant, SCHOOL parents, John and Carrie Jefferson, Clifton at- who loved his hometown and succeeded in tended Lynchburg public schools until he making it a better place. reached high school. At that time, he moved f HON. JOE SESTAK to Florence to attend Wilson High School, and OF PENNSYLVANIA upon graduation matriculated at South Caro- A TRIBUTE TO THE PASADENA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lina State College. SYMPHONY ASSOCIATION Monday, September 24, 2007 Clifton Jefferson didn’t come from a wealthy Mr. SESTAK. Madam Speaker, I rise today family, and he had to perform odd jobs to help HON. ADAM B. SCHIFF to recognize Saint Philomena School for 100 pay for school. But he had a tremendous work OF CALIFORNIA years of educational excellence in Delaware ethic and real rapport with his fellow students. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES County. They affectionately called him ‘‘Jeff,’’ and Monday, September 24, 2007 Located in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, St. elected him president of the Senior class at Philomena opened its doors on September 4, South Carolina State. He earned a bachelors Mr. SCHIFF. Madam Speaker, I rise today 1907, making it one of Delaware County’s old- degree in agriculture in 1946, and then de- to honor the Pasadena Symphony, which will est Catholic schools. Since that time, the cided to move to Baltimore, Maryland where be celebrating its 80th anniversary on October school has provided four generations of quality he pursued further studies at Howard Univer- 13, 2007—the beginning of the 2007–2008 Catholic education, touching the hearts and sity, Morgan State, and the University of Mary- season. Since 1928, the Pasadena Symphony minds of countless children, and epitomizing land. At the time, Jeff helped integrate the has demonstrated musical talent, stable lead- the school’s motto, ‘‘Experience the Dif- University of Maryland as its first black stu- ership, and remarkable service to the commu- ference, Commit to the Future’’. dent. He stayed on in Baltimore for eight nity. I would like to recognize the school’s pastor, years, but returned home when he was need- In 1922, Will Rounds, Director of Instru- Monsignor David Benz, and principal, Ms. Pa- ed to care for his ailing grandmother. mental Music in the Pasadena public school tricia Walsh, for their service and impassioned Back at home in Lynchburg, Clifton Jeffer- system and former member of the Los Ange- dedication to educating the students of the son worked in the Lee County Public School les Philharmonic, initiated a movement for a Saint Philomena School. System for 32 years. He began as a class- local civic orchestra. The Pasadena Civic Or- I would also like to recognize and extend room teacher, became an assistant principal chestra Association was officially developed in my gratitude to Ms. McKenna, an alumna of at Fleming Elementary and Mt. Pleasant High 1928 by a group of civic-minded citizens and the school who has devoted 45 years to School, and went on to become principal of Reginald Bland, the orchestra’s first director. teaching, 30 of which were as the 8th grade Bishopville Junior High School. He also held Originally formed to promote free music of all teacher at St. Philomena School. positions as assistant director of Lee County forms to the public and to provide young aspir- I ask that everyone join me in congratulating Vocational School, now known as the Lee ing musicians an opportunity to train through St. Philomena School on 100 years of great County Career & Technology Center, and as practical experience, the orchestra has trans- education, recognizing its contribution to the coordinator of the Old Ceta Program, now formed from a group of volunteer and student community, and acknowledging the dedication Project ACT. All the while, he owned and op- musicians into a nationally-recognized orches- of its staff and administrators. erated Jefferson Funeral Home in Lynchburg. tra that has won worldwide acclaim. f Breaking color barriers was a common Much of the symphony’s success can be at- PERSONAL EXPLANATION theme of Clifton Jefferson’s life. He was elect- tributed to its stable leadership. Since its ed the first black mayor of Lynchburg, and founding, the orchestra has had only four HON. MIKE THOMPSON served his community for 16 consecutive music directors. In 1936, Dr. Richard Lert years in that role. Some of his major accom- began his 36 year tenure as director and es- OF CALIFORNIA plishments included integrating the Lee Coun- tablished a scholarship fund for students who IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ty sheriff’s department, the county court performed in the orchestra. With Dr. Lert at Monday, September 24, 2007 house, and various agencies. He also brought the helm, the orchestra’s name was changed Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam the first Head Start program to Lynchburg. to the Pasadena Symphony Association in Speaker, unfortunately, I was unable to travel During his tenure, Mayor Jefferson was in- 1954; in 1955, the symphony became a found- to Washington for votes. strumental in investing in his town’s infrastruc- ing member of the Los Angeles Symphony

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.020 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1958 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 League and was recognized with Metropolitan heritage while contributing great things to the this month, let us also look toward the future, Status by the American Symphony Orchestra community we all share. and work toward building a better tomorrow for League in 1968. The Women’s Committee, Cı´o Herna´ndez has brought her language all American families. which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, and leadership skills to the youth of Marin was formed in 1957 to assist with fundraising. County. As the Bilingual Adolescent Mental f From 1972 to 1984 the orchestra’s reputation Health Practitioner for Teen Clinic of Marin continued to grow under the leadership of County Department of Health and Human HONORING HENRIETTA, COUNTESS Daniel Lewis. The orchestra received several Services, Cı´o is a youth group leader who in- DE HOERNLE’S 95TH BIRTHDAY national awards, including five American Soci- spires and motivates adolescents who want to ety of Composers and Publishers awards for make a difference in their community. adventuresome programming. Mr. Lewis also Martı´n Mora is a professional firefighter in HON. oversaw the founding of the Pasadena Youth the city of San Jose. In his 12 years with the OF FLORIDA San Jose Fire Department, he has promoted Symphony Orchestra which is considered one IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the best youth orchestras in the world. safety and awareness throughout the commu- Since 1984, Jorge Mester has brilliantly led nity. Additionally, Martı´n continues his family’s Monday, September 24, 2007 the Pasadena Symphony Association, expand- legacy of dedicated volunteering by assisting Mr. WEXLER. Madam Speaker, I rise today ing the number of concerts per season and re- children, women, and families in the Bay Area to honor Henrietta, Countess de Hoernle, as cording its first compact disc in 1994. and Nicaragua. Beyond its musical achievements, the asso- Guillermo ‘‘Memo’’ Morantes is a longtime she celebrates her 95th birthday. She is one ciation admirably serves the community community volunteer in San Mateo County, of the most distinguished and accomplished through educational outreach. Committed to with a special passion for education. As a philanthropists in south Florida, and I am making music accessible to the public, the member of the San Mateo County Board of proud to recognize her impact on our commu- symphony runs an admission-free Musical Cir- Education, he continues the fight he has long nity. Her record of service to those in need cus for families with young children and offers been waging to provide all our children with makes her a truly distinguished American. Concerts and Lessons to Enrich Families the kind of quality education they deserve. During her lifetime, the Countess has (C.L.E.F.). Believing that music belongs in the A Health and Nutrition teacher at Dover Ele- worked tirelessly to support worthwhile causes classroom as well as the concert hall, the mentary School in West Contra Costa County, benefiting young adults, the poor, the needy symphony partnered with Pasadena’s public Tony Ramirez imparts invaluable wisdom and the ill. She retains a personal philosophy elementary schools to found Tempo!, a cur- about healthy living and environmental preser- of using her financial resources to help others, riculum based program that has been recog- vation to our next generation of leaders. Tony believing that she would like to see the ‘‘fruits nized by the National Endowment for the Arts. has incorporated outdoors hands-on education of her labor’’ while she is able. She has been Through the Mentor Program, in which middle into the curriculum, instilling the value of pre- instrumental in advancing educational opportu- and high school musicians can meet with serving natural habitats such as the local wa- nities for the young, art and cultural opportuni- Pasadena Symphony Association profes- tershed, Wildcat Creek, and teaching students ties for area residents, and medical opportuni- sionals and the Pasadena Youth Symphony of their responsibility to maintain a healthy ties for everyone. Currently, she serves on six Orchestra, the symphony fosters our next gen- creek. boards in the Palm Beach area, including the eration of musicians. Mary Helen Rocha is another tireless advo- boards of the Caldwell Theatre and the Boca It is my great pleasure to honor the Pasa- cate for children and families in our commu- Raton Museum of Art. dena Symphony Association on its 80th anni- nity. From bus monitor to den mother and Girl One of the first charitable efforts made by versary. I ask all members to join me in com- Scout leader, she has done it all, and currently the Countess and her husband was to Boca mending their efforts. works as Program Director for The Perinatal Raton Community Hospital. Subsequently the f Council and coordinates the Antioch First 5 Countess has worked in support of many Center permanent facility, which serves fami- health organizations, including the American IN HONOR OF HISPANIC HERITAGE lies with children under 5 years of age. Red Cross, Hospice, the Habilitation Center, MONTH As a master of the art of capoeira, a Bra- and the Mae Volen Senior Center. The Count- ´ zilian martial arts and dance hybrid, Marcia ess then turned her attention to the needs of HON. TOM LANTOS Treidler, known to the arts community as south Florida youth. The Countess has also ´ OF CALIFORNIA Mestranda Marcia Cigarra, is working to been instrumental in helping the Haven, a fa- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spread hope and opportunity through the art cility providing a home for neglected and form she loves. Ma´rcia is the founder and Ar- Monday, September 24, 2007 ´ abused children, St. Joan of Arc School for its tistic Director of ABADA-Capoeira San Fran- expansion and new library, the College of Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today cisco (ACSF), which is dedicated to using Boca Raton (now Lynn University) for its Lec- to honor and celebrate, along with my remark- capoeira as a vehicle to improve and enrich ture Hall, and Spanish River Community High ably diverse constituents, Hispanic Heritage disadvantaged communities and the lives of School for a long-awaited theater. Month. I am grateful that September 15th people from all backgrounds. through October 15th has been set aside to Madam Speaker, it is not enough to cele- Other organizations with which the Count- commemorate the unique cultural legacy and brate this community one month out of every ess has been actively involved include the As- the significant contributions that the diverse year. All of our Hispanic American friends and sociation of Retarded Citizens, American people of Hispanic descent have made to the neighbors deserve the opportunity to build a Heart Association, American Diabetes Asso- United States of America. better life for themselves and their children. ciation, Arthritis Foundation, Boca Ballet The- Madam Speaker, this heritage is part and They are the driving force behind the efforts of atre, Boca Raton Historical Society, Boca parcel of our shared American birthright. It is this Democratic Congress to bring a new di- Raton International Club, Boca Raton Phil- only fitting that we celebrate the extraordinary rection to America—the real people who ben- harmonic Symphonia, Centre for the Arts at accomplishments of the 43 million Hispanic efit from progressive legislation like increases Mizner Park, The Children’s Museum, Cystic Americans in this country, people who are to the minimum wage and programs that make Fibrosis Foundation, Northwood University, making their mark in popular culture, business, college more affordable. Palm Beach Community College, The Palm athletics and politics. Theirs is the American Hispanic Heritage month is more than a cul- Beach International Film Festival, Police Ath- Dream—a deep-seated belief that hard work tural celebration, Madam Speaker, as vibrant letic League, United Way, the Youth Activity can bring a better life and a brighter future for and fascinating as that culture may be. It is an Center and ZONTA Club of Boca Raton. She our children. opportunity to see the children for whom we has received awards from more than 230 I wish to take this opportunity to honor some have just increased funding for math and charitable organizations and is universally rec- outstanding individuals living and working in science education, funding that will give all ognized as a major philanthropist. the San Francisco Bay area. KQED, a nation- Americans a chance to compete in the global Henrietta, Countess de Hoernle enjoys ally recognized public broadcaster, has named economy. It shines a spotlight on the citizens being able to give a helping hand to all in the following six outstanding individuals 2007 who lack adequate health care, despite work- need—believing that’s what her life is all Latino Heritage Local Heroes. These hard- ing full time. Hispanic Heritage month is cer- about. She sets an example for everyone in working citizens represent the best of both tainly about the past, Madam Speaker, and it our community to follow, and I am proud to worlds—preserving their personal and family is an honorable past worth remembering. Yet recognize her today on her 95th birthday.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.025 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1959 CELEBRATING THE ACCOMPLISH- submarine began its first patrol in August 1942 to jazz fusion and avant-garde jazz in his 60- MENTS OF RICHARD KAZMAIER in the Carolines. During its first 6 patrols the year career. He has a highly expressive, per- submarine was responsible for sinking 27 sonal style (‘‘Snap Crackle’’ was a nickname HON. MARCY KAPTUR ships and damaging 2 more and was granted given him in the 1950s) and is known to foster OF OHIO the Presidential Unit Citation for its 3rd patrol. a deep engagement with his band mates. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The submarine came under attack on its 7th Roy Haynes was born in Boston on March 13, 1925, and, like so many of his contem- Monday, September 24, 2007 patrol in the La Perouse Strait between the Japanese island of Hokkaido and the Russian poraries became keenly interested in music, Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise today island of Sakhalin and went down on October and in particular, jazz, at an early age. Pri- in recognition of the achievements of Richard 11, 1943. According to Japanese military re- marily self-taught, he began to work in Boston William Kazmaier, a native of Maumee, Ohio ports the submarine was sunk after several in 1942 with musicians like Charlie Christian, in the Ninth Congressional District and winner hours of a combined air and sea attack involv- Tom Brown, Sabby Lewis, and Pete Brown. In of the 1951 Heisman Trophy as the most out- ing depth charges and aerial bombings. the summer of 1945, he got a call to join leg- standing player in college football. Commander Dudley Morton was the skipper endary bandleader Luis Russell (responsible Mr. Kazmaier will be honored at a special of the USS Wahoo when it went down. His rel- for much of Louis Armstrong’s musical backing dinner ceremony tomorrow evening at atives and the relatives of other crew mem- from 1929 to 1933) to play for the dancers at Maumee High School, where he will donate to bers led the search to find the USS Wahoo. New York’s legendary Savoy Ballroom. When his alma mater a replica of his Heisman Tro- Through a cooperative effort between the not traveling with Russell, the young drummer phy for display in a specially-made trophy United States, Japan, and Russia, the USS spent much time on Manhattan’s 52nd Street and uptown at Minton’s, the legendary incu- case. Wahoo was located. After graduating from Maumee High School In addition to Commander Morton, 79 other bator of bebop, soaking up the scene. Over the next 30 years, Haynes would go in 1948, Mr. Kazmaier led Princeton University crew members lost their lives that day. They to back-to-back undefeated seasons in 1950 on to play with virtually every jazz musician of include the uncle of my constituent Joann note. He was Lester Young’s drummer from and 1951. He also led the Nation in total of- Fisher, Edwin Eldon Ostrander. The names of fense in 1951, operating as the lone back in 1947 to 1949, worked with Bud Powell and the remaining crew members are: Floyd Miles Davis in 1949, and became Charlie the Tigers’ single-wing formation. He received Anders, Joseph Andrews, Robert Bailey, Ar- more Heisman votes than any other winner up Parker’s drummer of choice from 1949 to thur Bair, Jimmie Berg, Chester Browning, 1953. He toured the world with Sarah to that time, and he finished more than 1,000 Donald Brown, Clifford Bruce, James Buckley, points ahead of the runnerup. He made the Vaughan from 1954 to 1959, did numerous William Burgan, John Campbell, William Carr, extended gigs with Thelonious Monk in 1959– cover of Time Magazine. James Carter, William Davison, Lynwood And then Richard Kazmaier made a life- 60, and made eight recordings with Eric Deaton, Joseph Erdey, Eugene Fiedler, Oscar changing decision. He turned down an offer to Dolphy in 1960–61. Haynes worked exten- Finkelstein, Walter Galli, Cecil Garmon, play professionally for the Chicago Bears and sively with Stan Getz from 1961 to 1965, George Garrett, Jr., Wesley Gerlacher, Rich- decided instead to enter Harvard Business played and recorded with the John Coltrane ard Goss, Hiram Greene, William Hand, Leon School, choosing the Ivy League over the Na- Quartet from 1963 to 1965, has collaborated Hartman, Dean Hayes, Richie Henderson, Wil- tional Football League. with Chick Corea since 1968, and with Pat liam Holmes, Van House, Howard Howe, Olin After serving 3 years in the U.S. Navy, at- Metheny during the ’90s. Metheny was fea- Jacobs, Robert Jasa, Juan Jayson, Kindred taining the rank of lieutenant, Mr. Kazmaier tured on Haynes’ previous Dreyfus release Te Johnson, Dalton Keeter, Wendell Kemp, Paul went into business as president of Kazmaier Vou! (voted by NAIRD as Best Contemporary Kessock, Paul Krebs, Eugene Kirk, Arthur and Associates, a sports marketing and finan- Jazz Record of 1996). He’s been an active Lape, Clarence Lindemann, Robert Logue, cial services company. He was inducted into bandleader from the late ’50s to the present, Walter Lynch, Stuart MacAlman, Thomas Mac the College Football Hall of Fame in 1966. He featuring artists in performance and on record- Gowen, Albert Magyar, Jesus Manalisay, Paul later served on the board of trustees at ings like Phineas Newborn, Booker Ervin, Ro- Mandjiak, Edward Massa, Ernest Maulding, Princeton University. He was a director of the land Kirk, George Adams, Hannibal Marvin George Maulding, Thomas McGill, Jr., Howard Knight Foundation on Intercollegiate Athletics. Peterson, Ralph Moore and Donald Harrison. McGilton, Donald McSpadden, Max Mills, He was appointed by President Ronald A perpetual top three drummer in the Down- George Misch, Percy Neel, Forest O’Brien, Reagan to the President’s Council on Physical beat Readers Poll Awards, he won the Best Roy O’Neal, Paul Phillips, Juano Rennels, Fitness, and served as its chairman. Drummer honors in 1996 (and many years Richard Kazmaier never forgot his home- Henry Renno, Enoch Seal, Jr., Alfred since), and in that year received the pres- town, either. The Richard Kazmaier Scholar- Simonetti, Verne Skjonsby, Donald Smith, tigious French Chevalier des l’Ordres Artes et ship Program at Maumee High School has George Stevens, William Terrell, William des Lettres. In 2002, Roy Haynes’ album Birds awarded more than $153,000 in scholarships Thomas, Ralph Tyler, Joe Vidick, Ludwig of a Feather, his tribute to the immortal Char- to student athletes over the past 17 years. Wach, Wilbur Waldron, Norman Ware, William lie ‘‘Bird’’ Parker, was nominated for a Best Madam Speaker, it is entirely appropriate White, Kenneth Whipp, and Roy Witting. Jazz Instrumental Album Grammy. that Richard Kazmaier, a two-time All-America Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Rep- Of his style and music Haynes’ says: ‘‘I at Princeton, will be feted in his hometown, resentatives to rise with me and honor these structure pieces like riding a horse . . . you because just last year Maumee gained ac- brave men that gave their lives for our Nation. pull a rein here, you tighten it up here, you claim as an All-America City. Congratulations May we always remember their sacrifice and loosen it there. I’m still sitting in the driver’s are in order for Richard Kazmaier and also for revere their memory. seat, so to speak. I let it loose, I let it go, I see the city of Maumee. f where it’s going and what it feels like. Some- times I take it out, sometimes I’ll be polite, f A SALUTE TO ROY HAYNES nice and let it move and breathe—always in REMEMBERING THE USS ‘‘WAHOO’’ the pocket and with feeling. So the music is HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR. tight but loose.’’ HON. DALE E. KILDEE OF MICHIGAN Haynes continued, ‘‘I am constantly prac- OF MICHIGAN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ticing in my head. In fact, a teacher in school once sent me to the principal, because I was IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Monday, September 24, 2007 drumming with my hands on the desk in class. Monday, September 24, 2007 Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, as Dean My father used to say I was just nervous. I’m Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today of the Congressional Black Caucus and Chair- always thinking rhythms, drums. When I was to pay tribute to the men who lost their lives man of the 23rd Congressional Black Caucus very young I used to practice a lot; not any when the USS Wahoo went down in the West- Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference special thing, but just practice playing. Now ern Pacific in 1943. A memorial ceremony to Jazz Forum and Concert, I rise to salute the I’m like a doctor. When he’s operating on you, the 80 crew members will be held at the USS lifetime achievements of one of the most dis- he’s practicing. When I go to my gigs, that’s Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park on Octo- tinguished jazz artists in American music his- my practice. I may play something that I never ber 11, the 64th anniversary of the vessel’s tory, Roy Haynes. heard before or maybe that you never heard disappearance. One of the most recorded drummers in the before. It’s all a challenge.’’ The USS Wahoo was one of the Navy’s history of jazz, Haynes has played in a wide ‘‘I deal with sounds. I’m full of rhythm, man. most valuable units during World War II. The range of styles ranging from swing and bebop I feel it. I think summer, winter, fall, spring,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.027 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1960 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 hot, cold, fast and slow—colors. But I don’t on a Sausalito houseboat not far from Phil’s cleanups of toxic waste sites now falls on the analyze it. I’ve been playing professionally floating studio in the pilot house of the ferry shoulders of taxpaying Americans. Reauthor- over 50 years, and that’s the way I do it. I al- City of Seattle, recalls the first annual Hum- izing the Superfund tax would ensure that pol- ways surprise myself. The worst surprise is ming Toadfish Festival, which she started. Phil luters—not the American public—pay to re- when I can’t get it to happen. But it usually designed the t-shirt, and after the first ones store public health. comes out. I don’t play for a long period, and were printed, Dunwell gifted one to Phil. He Superfund sites contain toxic contaminants then I’m like an animal, a lion or tiger locked graciously thanked her, then placed the shirt that have been detected in drinking water in its cage, and when I get out I try to restrain in a drawer brimming with Phil Frank-designed wells, creeks and rivers, backyards, play- myself. I don’t want to overplay. I like the guys t-shirts from other charitable groups. grounds, and streets. Communities impacted to trade, and I just keep it moving, and spread Phil was generous not only with his talent, by these sites can face restrictions on water the rhythm, as Coltrane said. Keep it moving, but with his time. A self-educated historian, he use, gardening and recreational activities as keep it crisp.’’ was an important figure in the Sausalito His- well as economic losses as property values Madam Speaker, it is my honor to offer this torical Society, and acted as exhibitions coor- decline due to contaminated land. In the worst salute to Roy Haynes as a true Modern Jazz dinator for the Bolinas Museums’ History Col- cases, families are at risk of health problems Giant and a living national treasure and the lection. ‘‘He knew the history of places from such as cardiac impacts, infertility, low birth embodiment of the values and principles set the human side,’’ explained Nolte. weight, birth defects, leukemia, and respiratory forth in H. Con. Res. 57, the joint resolution One of his most popular cartoons, published difficulties. passed on John Coltrane’s birthday 20 years in Sausalito’s weekly newspaper, exposes the Until they expired in 1995, the Superfund ago, which has become the gold standard ru- persona of his hometown with well-intended taxes generated around $1.7 billion a year to bric for the proper recognition of jazz and its humor. It shows the Sausalito Fire and Res- clean up these hazardous areas. The ‘‘Super- practitioners. cue squad being called to the downtown park fund Reinvestment Act’’ would simply reinstate f to assist a 90-year-old resident who had fallen the taxes as they were before they expired. off her platform shoes and couldn’t get up by This will provide a stable source of funding to IN MEMORY OF PHIL FRANK herself because her jeans were too tight. continue cleaning up sites around the country Phil could make us laugh at ourselves. He as well as give the EPA the tools it needs to HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY was one of those genuinely nice guys. He clean up sites and then recover the costs from OF CALIFORNIA lived with enthusiasm. He made us smile. He liable parties who do not undertake the work IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES is already missed. themselves. I urge my colleagues to join me in working Monday, September 24, 2007 f to strengthen the Superfund program and en- Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, it is with PERSONAL EXPLANATION sure that it continues to help keep our commu- great sadness that I rise today to recognize nities and our families safe, healthy, and eco- the passing of one of our notable journalists, HON. SUE WILKINS MYRICK nomically secure. cartoonist Phil Frank. Phil died of brain cancer OF NORTH CAROLINA f this month, but not before leaving an enduring IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES legacy to the people of Marin County, where PERSONAL EXPLANATION he lived, and to those of the San Francisco Monday, September 24, 2007 Bay Area and across North America. Mrs. MYRICK. Madam Speaker, I was un- HON. CHARLES W. ‘‘CHIP’’ PICKERING Admired by other cartoonists, loved by his able to participate in the following votes. If I OF MISSISSIPPI family and fans, and appreciated by local his- had been present, I would have voted as fol- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES torians, Phil was the creator of a host of car- lows: Monday, September 24, 2007 toon characters, the most famous being Far- September 20, 2007—Rollcall vote 889, on Mr. PICKERING. Madam Speaker, I was ley, a San Francisco reporter on a newspaper agreeing to the Neugebauer (TX) amend- unable to be present for rollcall vote No. 876 named The Daily Requirement. Farley’s world ment—H.R. 2881, the FAA Reauthorization to H.R. 1852. I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ was peopled by an assortment of politicians Act of 2007—I would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ and animals, including Bruce, the raven; Or- Rollcall vote 890, on passage—H.R. 2881, f well T. Catt, feral feline; a collection of bears the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2007—I would SUPPORT FOR THE JENA, that ran the Fog City Dumpster and avidly have voted ‘‘nay.’’ LOUISIANA 6 supported the San Francisco Giants; and of f course, the high-class band of feral pigs in HON. KEITH ELLISON dark glasses, who traveled Marin County in INTRODUCTION OF THE OF MINNESOTA BMWs, led by their guru, De Pork Chopra. SUPERFUND REINVESTMENT ACT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES With these characters and others, Phil tar- geted daily events in the Bay Area, including HON. EARL BLUMENAUER Monday, September 24, 2007 the actions of every San Francisco mayor OF OREGON Mr. ELLISON. Madam Speaker, I rise today from Dianne Feinstein to Gavin Newson. Phil’s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to bring attention to a pressing issue that co-worker Carl Nolte, a staff writer at the plagues our Nation, the injustice that is experi- Monday, September 24, 2007 Chronicle, where the Farley comic ran almost enced by African-Americans in our criminal every day for 32 years, remembers a good ex- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, today justice system. On September 20, 2007, rallies ample. When Mayor Frank Jordan once ap- I am proud to introduce, along with my col- were held across the Nation in honor of what pointed a lowly politician to a high office in his league FRANK PALLONE, the ‘‘Superfund Rein- we have come to know as the ‘‘Jena 6.’’ The administration, Phil’s comic strip showed the vestment Act,’’ which would reauthorize the Jena 6 is a group of young African-American cartoon mayor appointing one of the feral cats corporate taxes that fund the Superfund trust men who were charged with attempted murder to run the municipal aquarium. fund. This bill will reestablish the polluter pays for a school yard fight with a Caucasian male ‘‘But he was never mean-spirited,’’ said principle and our commitment to cleaning up in Jena, Louisiana. Nolte. ‘‘He was humorous in the best sense of the Nation’s most hazardous sites. Before the school yard fight that put the 6 political humor.’’ The Environmental Protection Agency’s African American students in jail, 3 Caucasian Fellow cartoonist Kathryn Lemieux of (EPA) Superfund program was created in students hung nooses from a tree on in the Tomales agreed. ‘‘He could poke fun at some- 1980 to provide money to clean up the Na- school. These students were suspended from one without being cruel,’’ she said. According tion’s worst hazardous waste sites where the school but never were charged with any crime. to Lemieux, Phil was also a generous mentor party responsible for polluting was out of busi- Another Caucasian student involved in a dif- to other artists, always willing to share his ness or could not be identified. Before they ferent school yard fight was charged with bat- support. expired in 1995, the money for the Superfund tery and was placed on probation. He also shared his talent with innumerable trust fund came mainly from taxes on the pol- Yet, when the Jena 6 were involved in a organizations all over the Bay Area, drawing a luters themselves. The program has contrib- fight injuring one of the Caucasian students, t-shirt design, adding a cartoon to a city mail- uted to the cleanup of over 1,000 sites around the 6 high school students were charged with ing, or illustrating a California park system no- the country. Because Congress has not reau- attempted second-degree murder and other tice. Suzanne Dunwell, who lived for a while thorized the taxes, the burden of funding serious assault charges.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.030 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1961 Prior to the incident, LaSalle Parish Attorney affected, should federal funds suddenly dry nations and layoffs. She assisted her co-work- Reed Walter was quoted as telling students up. ers, day after day. How hard it must have who protested the displays of nooses at their For some, it could be a matter of life or been to draw the strength to touch each life, school that they should stop complaining death. For my constituents, I urge Congress one after the other, to give people hope. She about ‘‘innocent pranks’’ and that he could and the President to work together to protect helped lead them to a new road forward. That ‘‘end their lives with the stroke of a pen.’’ It this valuable program. The Congressional is what Sadie did. appears he has attempted to do just this in the Black Caucus is dedicated to this issue, and Sadie effectively connected to the world be- case of these 6 students. I thank the Chair for bringing attention to the yond her family—she was a full citizen. She The inflated charges against the Jena 6 health of our Nation’s children. embraced local, state, and national politics. I could lead to years in prison and a lifetime of f can’t remember a time when Sadie wasn’t trying to rebuild their lives after they are finally there—at NAACP, the Fraternal Order of Po- released. EULOGY FOR SADIE MAE GROVE lice, The Perry Burroughs Democratic Club, Let me be clear, I do not condone the ac- the United Auto Workers, the Elks, and as a tions of the Jena 6 in any way; I believe that HON. MARCY KAPTUR steward of her cherished church, Mt. Pilgrim. they should be punished. However, the pun- OF OHIO She was a member of the Senior Usher Board ishment should fit the actual crime. It is clear IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES #1. I thought number one meant she was the that these 6 students were treated differently Monday, September 24, 2007 most senior, for we in Congress respect se- from their Caucasian counterparts. I can only niority, but in any case she was #1 to all of us. conclude that the harsher sentences for the Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, Rev. She was a pillar of this church. Where would Jena 6 appear to be based on the color of Bishop, it is a privilege to be invited to honor our community be without this church commu- their skin and that is why they have become and celebrate the life of Sadie Mae Grove at nity? Imagine Toledo without this church. a symbol of the gross racial inequality that ex- her homegoing today from Mt. Pilgrim Baptist There would be a huge vacuum here. She ists in our criminal justice system. Church, Toledo, Ohio, September 21, 2007. helped fill that space. I can still see her scur- The Jena 6 have brought to light an issue Thank you all for allowing me to participate. In rying to greet me whenever I visited this that is of grave concern, people should not be this church, we can all feel the love she church. For how many other visitors did she charged with crimes based on the color of shared with us as we comfort one another at do that? She always waited for me in that their skin, rather, they should be charged this time of great bereavement. back hall. It was there she first shared with me based on action and action alone. Once in a while, human beings gain a her dream for the housing development for In closing, Madam Speaker, I ask that this glimpse of heaven in the people we meet. this church and she lived to know it was com- Congress not turn a blind eye to the Jena 6. Sadie Grove was such a person. pleted. The treasurer of your church just told Rather, this Congress should take immediate She was loving, joyful, strong, kind, gen- me that the $1.7 million addition the church action to ensure that justice is being equally erous. And she was wise. To her beloved accomplished was to have been paid in 15 applied to all Americans and correct the racial daughter Louise, lifelong friend Ada Mae years. Sadie headed the stewardship com- disparities that haunt our courtrooms and pris- McQueen, chosen brothers Freddie and Book- mittee, and the loan was paid off in 5 years ons. er, precious granddaughters Natasha and and 7 months. Yes, you and we, could depend Cassandra, great-grandchildren Tyrin and f on Sadie. Deiondre, blessed family, friends and col- Sadie made us strong just by being with us. THE IMPORTANCE OF REAUTHOR- leagues—our community extends its deepest How blessed we all have been to have known IZING THE STATE CHILDREN’S sympathy. Grief is such a heavy load. Believe her and shared her life. May her family, HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM me, as I know from personal experience, friends, and our entire community be grateful Sadie’s strength will help carry you now. Rev. for her life and, in her memory, may you be HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON Bishop, Sadie drew enormous strength in given Godspeed in the days and years ahead. OF TEXAS knowing you would help carry her home today. A poem by Nancy Wood entitled ‘‘Earth IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES She is grateful that we are all here at this mo- Prayers’’ brings us comfort as we honor the ment. life of Sadie Grove: Monday, September 24, 2007 In life, some persons are of such strength A long time I have lived with you Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. and texture, the power of their personhood And now we must be going Madam Speaker, I rise to urge the timely re- sets a standard of character, not just for their Separately to be together. authorization of the Children’s Health and family, but for the broader community. Sadie Perhaps I shall be the wind Medicare Protection Act. was a woman of character. Our community To blur your smooth waters Unless the President signs the bipartisan, has been shaped and imbued with her na- So that you do not see your face too much. bicameral conference report that will be sent ture—smiling, caring, building, nurturing oth- Perhaps I shall be the star to him before the end of this fiscal year, the ers, all of us—a woman of deep faith, abiding To guide your uncertain wings so that you State Children’s Health Insurance Program will hope, and selfless charity. In some faiths, a have direction in the night. fail to be funded in a timely manner. smile is regarded as a charity. Surely, angels Perhaps I shall be the fire As a result, several states will experience of all persuasions welcome Sadie today as we To separate your thoughts immediate budget shortages and may be un- recall her welcoming smile, extending from ear So that you do not give up. able to cover the health care expenses of to ear. She gave us her warm, encouraging Perhaps I shall be the rain thousands of uninsured children. hugs, and her gusto, guts, and grace. To open up the earth Texas has the highest rate of uninsured Sadie did not lead an easy life. Yet she took So that your seed may fall. children in the Nation. Twenty-five percent of joy and gave joy in her journey. She was a Perhaps I shall be the stream Texas kids have no health insurance. woman from the working class of people who To play a song on the rock So that you are not alone. The Federal Government and executive had to make her own way. Can you imagine branch are in a position to help by refunding the back-breaking discipline it took for a Perhaps I shall be a new mountain So that you always have a home. SCHIP so that states can enroll uninsured woman to work for 30 years in the old Jeep children into the program. These are children paint shop, not the new one . . . on her feet, f of the working poor. day in and day out, many times working over- PERSONAL EXPLANATION Madam Speaker, I represent an urban area, time, working with mainly men when she and many of my constituents live in poverty. began. She had to be one of the few women HON. ADAM H. PUTNAM with that experience. Then, due to her skills They face tough decisions regarding shift OF FLORIDA work, child- and dependent care options, and personality, she moved to the UAW job IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES transportation challenges, and even how to af- training facility at the Jeep unit of the United ford healthy meals for their families. Many are Auto Workers Local 12. It was there I first met Monday, September 24, 2007 the working poor. her with now Lucas County Commissioner Mr. PUTNAM. Madam Speaker, on My constituents depend on SCHIP funds for Pete Gerken. Imagine all the lives she Wednesday, September 19, 2007, I had a a continuity of health care for their children to touched, helping people transition from auto meeting at the White House and was unable which they would not otherwise have access. manufacturing to other fields as the bad econ- to make it to the Capitol for one vote. I would I am gravely concerned about how they will be omy that has plagued us yielded more termi- have voted ‘‘yea’’ in favor of ‘‘The Food and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.035 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1962 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 Drug Administration Amendments Bill’’ (H.R. newly-established former Yugoslav Republic of Laws. After completing high school on the 3580). Macedonia, a state that emerged from the dis- Reservation, she attended Minot State College f integration of former Yugoslavia. where she completed a Baccalaureate Degree This agreement paved the way for the nor- in Education with a Minor in Library Science PERSONAL EXPLANATION malization of relations between Greece and and Sociology. While in college, she met Rus- the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. sell Mahaney whom she later married, and HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER Following the signing of this Interim Accord, they eventually moved to Toledo, Ohio, where OF MICHIGAN Greece, like the United States, strongly sup- she remained for over 30 years and raised her IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ported the newly established state, both politi- family. cally and economically. Greece fully backed Although Joyce moved from the Reserva- Monday, September 24, 2007 FYROM’s aspirations to join the key institu- tion, she didn’t leave it. She continued to have Mr. MCCOTTER. Madam Speaker, had I tions of the European and Euro-Atlantic com- close contact with elders, relatives and friends. been present for the vote on H.R. 3580, I munity, and Greece became the number one Throughout her life she supported her Native would have supported this legislation. Unfortu- investor in that country, with $1.1 billion in- American heritage, becoming a spokesperson nately, I was meeting with the President of the vested capital. for all tribes of Native Americans in the State United States during the time the vote was Unfortunately, the former Yugoslav Republic of Ohio and in Michigan and Indiana, in pre- held. of Macedonia has not fully reciprocated these serving the culture and traditions. Joyce was f gestures and I am concerned about unaccept- designated as a Pipe Carrier from the Turtle able propaganda impugning Greece’s history Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians in North RECOGNIZING THE FORT PIERCE and cultural heritage. It is critical that Skopje Dakota which gave her permission from the el- ELKS LODGE 1520 address this propaganda and show increased ders of the tribe to conduct special religious and cultural services, including praying with flexibility during the ongoing U.N. negotiations, Native Americans on death row. It is one of HON. TIM MAHONEY with a view to finding a mutually acceptable the highest honors provided to a member of a OF FLORIDA solution on the name issue. Resolution of this tribe. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES issue is not just a bilateral issue with Greece, In an effort to preserve all tribal cultures, Monday, September 24, 2007 but has regional and international dimensions. Joyce established the American Indian Inter- As Chairman of the Europe Subcommittee tribal Association (AIIA) of Toledo in 1988. It Mr. MAHONEY of Florida. Madam Speaker, in the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I it is my pleasure to rise today to recognize the was the first organization of its kind in Ohio have been working in a bipartisan fashion with and the Midwest, and she served as the Di- members of the Fort Pierce Elks Lodge 1520 the subcommittee’s ranking member, Con- rector until her death. Her daughter then as- in Fort Pierce, FL, for their contributions to our gressman ELTON GALLEGLY to support efforts sumed leadership. The primary mission of the service men and women and to congratulate to resolve this long-standing issue, including organization is to preserve the Indian culture the Lodge for the commendation they have re- introducing House Resolution 356. This reso- by conducting traditional pow-wows, pre- ceived within the Elks community. lution expresses the sense of this House that senting programs and educational opportuni- Over the past 3 years, the Fort Pierce Elks the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia ties, providing culturally sensitive awareness in Lodge has implemented an outstanding vet- (FYROM) should not violate provisions of the drug and alcohol prevention and participating eran’s services program. Through their over- United Nations-brokered Interim Agreement in cultural events within the community as well seas military outreach program, ‘‘Operation between the FYROM and Greece regarding as training through workshops and seminars. Desert Elk’,’ the Lodge collects various sundry ‘‘hostile activities or propaganda’’ and should A further goal is to educate the general public items and creates care packages for troops in work with the United Nations and Greece to about Native American cultural traditions, the Afghanistan and Iraq. These packages provide achieve longstanding United States and desecration of Indian burial sites, and the ex- a touch of home for our brave soldiers who United Nations policy goals of finding a mutu- ploitation of sacred ceremonies and cultural are serving in such hostile environments. To ally-acceptable official name for the FYROM. identities. In addition, the AIIA provides work- date, over 1,400 packages valued at over House Resolution 356 already has 73 co- shops in the schools and with local community $50,000 have been mailed overseas. sponsors and I would urge my colleagues in organizations to maintain open contact with At home, the Lodge provides ongoing sup- the House of Representatives to cosponsor social service agencies and participate in the port to our hospitalized veterans at the West this resolution and urge authorities in Skopje community. Joyce worked with social service Palm Beach, FL, Veteran’s Affairs Medical to join Athens and meet their obligations deriv- agencies in applying the Indian Child Welfare Center and at local State nursing homes. ing from the U.S.-brokered Interim Accord. Act by ensuring that Indian children were Clothing, books, and board games as well as f placed in homes where they would be ex- monetary donations to support recreational posed to their culture. therapy programs are provided on a continual HONORING THE LIFE AND SPIRIT Joyce was later instrumental in assisting in basis. The Lodge has also adopted veterans OF JOYCE SNOWFEATHER the expansion of the American Indian Inter- in nursing homes and provided visitation, MAHANEY AS THE 20TH AMER- tribal Association’s branch office in Cleveland greeting cards and meals. ICAN INDIAN INTERTRIBAL AS- as well as other Indian centers in Akron, I am honored to recognize the exceptional SOCIATION POWWOW IS CELE- Michigan and Indiana. Although she was Chip- individuals who make up the membership of BRATED pewa, she was an advocate for all members the Fort Pierce Elks Lodge 1520 and the in- of all Tribes and Nations. Throughout her life, credible services they provide for our service HON. MARCY KAPTUR Joyce served as an activist in the preservation men and veterans. OF OHIO of her cultural heritage and traditions. She was f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES active in the preservation of sacred Indian bur- ial grounds in Maumee, Ohio in the 1990’s FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF Monday, September 24, 2007 and frequently battled with archeologists and MACEDONIA Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise to museums throughout Ohio regarding the appli- recognize the life and spirit of Joyce cation of NAGPRA (Native American Graves HON. ROBERT WEXLER Snowfeather Mahaney who, on June 23, 2006, Repatriation Act) laws and the handling of Na- OF FLORIDA passed from this life at the age of 59 years tive American remains. Joyce was instru- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and ‘‘started her westward journey.’’ mental in the development of the 200th anni- Joyce Mahaney was born January 31st, versary of the Battle of Fallen Timbers in Monday, September 24, 2007 1947 on the Turtle Mountain Reservation in which a stone monument was placed in re- Mr. WEXLER. Madam Speaker, a little over North Dakota of Chippewa parents, Alexander membrance of the warriors who lost their lives twelve years ago, on September 13, 1995, and Mary Frederick. Joyce was given the In- in the battle of 1794. There is currently activity Clinton Administration officials played a critical dian Name ‘‘Snowfeather’’’ as she was born underway by the City of Maumee to name a role in addressing a pressing issue in the Bal- during a snowstorm. Her father died when she bridge in her honor at the sight of the Fallen kans and Europe. With American-led medi- was a toddler and her mother and other tribal Timbers Monument in which the Annual Sum- ation, our longstanding friend, ally and stra- members raised her. Inquisitive and always mer Solstice Ceremony is held. tegic partner Greece signed an Interim Accord proud of her American Indian heritage, Joyce Joyce is a published author of two books at the United Nations in New York with the was well-schooled in the Tribal Customs and and was working on a third at the time of her

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.039 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1963 death. She received an award for her poetry of the Flint community at a dinner on Sep- tively reach underserved borrowers, and for at the Multicultural Arts Show in Toledo in tember 27th in Burton, Michigan. other purposes: 1997. The books include Prairie Winds (1995) After graduating from Flint Northwestern Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Chairman, I rise in and Spirit of Dakota (1999), a collection of High School, Tina continued her education at strong support of the Expanding American prose and poetry about Native American cul- the University of Michigan—Flint. She grad- Homeownership Act of 2007 (H.R. 1852). This ture, spirituality, and life on an Indian reserva- uated from that institution in 1978 with a Bach- important piece of legislation will revitalize the tion. elor of Arts degree. She started working for Federal Housing Administration (FHA), which Joyce was held in high esteem by commu- the Genesee County Sheriffs office in 1986 as was established to provide a reliable source of nity and elected leaders, and throughout the a Corrections Officer. She has worked on the affordable mortgage loans for first-time home- years her efforts were recognized. In 1989, Jails Transaction Team, was the first woman buyers. Through our efforts today, the FHA she received a proclamation from Governor to work in the Jail’s Commissary, she worked will be able to better assist America’s working Celeste declaring May 1–7, 1989 as American as a Classification Officer and was the first families by offering loans at affordable rates Indian Week. Additional recognition came for woman elected Union President. with fair terms, as we work to alleviate the her establishment of the American Indian Sheriff Robert Pickell created the position of problems caused by the continuing mortgage Intertribal Association; assisting in the preser- Administrative Assistant when he became crisis. vation of the Indian burial mounds, the lands Genesee County Sheriff and Tina was tapped The lack of affordable housing has long and the culture; the assistance in the erection to fill the position in 1999. She acts as a com- plagued many communities throughout Amer- of a historical marker at the site of Fallen Tim- munity representative and works with various ica, and the problem is particularly acute in bers National Park site in which she was also organizations to ensure the next generation is high cost areas like Rhode Island. In Rhode instrumental in the purchase of the battle prepared to assume the leadership of our Island, the average two-bedroom apartment sight; and her service to the Native American community. In this capacity she arranges tours costs $1172 per month—at that rate, many Advisory Council. She was honored by the for the Youth Projects Program and area people would need to work two or even three City of Maumee when she led the presentation churches, allowing students ages 12–16 to jobs just to pay the rent. And the situation can as a Native American representative in the talk to inmates and hear their stories. be even worse for those struggling to buy their ‘‘All American City’’ competition in Anaheim Tina is active with many organizations in- own homes, particularly in today’s uncertain California in June 2006, which was 2 weeks cluding the Fetal Infant Mortality Committee, climate. Unscrupulous lending practices have before her death. the Hate Crimes Task Force, the Interagency taken their toll on hard-working families, who As a result of her work, Joyce has left a leg- Collaborative GISD, the Elder Abuse Task are increasingly unable to keep pace with their acy for Ohio and the Midwest in the preserva- Force/until Disciplinary Team, YWCA Domes- ballooning mortgage payments. tion of the Native Culture. The annual Pow tic Violence Committee, East Side and North The Expanding American Homeownership Wow which will be celebrating it’s 20th year Central Weed and Seed Programs, Strong Act of 2007 will provide much-needed relief for this year, has attracted several thousand Na- Families Safe Children, and Safe Schools families on the brink of foreclosure. In par- tive American and non-Native Americans to Healthy Students—Flint Schools. She is also a ticular, this targeted legislation will allow the teach and remind us of the importance of the member of Delta Sigma Theta—Flint Alumnae FHA to raise loan limits in high cost areas and Native American heritage. It’s 20th anniversary Chapter and is a Big Sister with the Big Broth- to offer zero and lower down payment loan year with its theme ‘‘Honoring the Elders’’ ers Big Sisters program. options for borrowers that can afford mortgage seems a fitting time to memorialize its Found- She has held the following positions: Chair payments, but lack the resources required for ing Mother. Black Caucus 1985–1995, Vice-Chair Gen- a down payment. H.R. 1852 will also require Joyce Snowfeather Mahaney— Activist, esee County Democratic Party 1998–2000, that an additional $300 million per year be Teacher, Warrior, and Pioneer—will long be Chair Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint placed in the affordable housing trust fund, remembered for the contributions and legacy 1998–Present, Chair National Council on Alco- which will help to provide affordable housing she left. Throughout her life, she walked the holism and Addiction 2006–2007, Vice Presi- for years to come. Red Road. Her own words echo in fitting trib- dent Sisters United Incorporated 2001– Finally, I am pleased that the bill will double ute to this extraordinary woman. Present, President AFSCME 2259 Genesee current funding levels for housing counseling WALK BESIDE ME County Sheriff Union 1997–1999, Trustee services. These critical services will provide You are the warrior and the hunter and I am AFL–CIO 1997–1999, Treasurer New Paths additional guidance to homebuyers in the the humble power behind the spear who Incorporated 2000–Present, Treasurer Alter- subprime market and others who have dif- will always guide your shield to defend native for Children 1997–Present, President ficulty making their monthly mortgage pay- you. And you are the sister I met near Sam Duncan Memorial Scholarship Committee ments. the stream. 2004–Present, Youth Projects Advisory Board In passing the Expanding American Home- We sat on the rocks facing the morning sun 2000–Present, Catholic Charities of Genesee/ ownership Act today, we have made a com- and cleansed our garments together. mitment to the American people that we will When you look into my soul, you will find Shiawassee Counties 2006–Present, March of the existence of a very quiet and gentle Dimes Flint/Saginaw Division 2000–Present, continue to ensure affordable housing is avail- spirit. United Way Cabinet 2000–Present, and the able to all Americans. Strengthening the secu- Listen to my footsteps. If you hear the sound Child Advocacy Center 2005–Present. rity of American families strengthens our econ- of refined pebbles falling softly on Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Rep- omy, and I urge my colleagues to support this Mother Earth, it is I. resentatives to join me in congratulating Tina measure. My spirit can always be found traveling Fielder-Gibson as her hard work and contribu- f north and south. I follow Grandfather tions to the young people of Genesee County and travel the red road. IN HONOR OF MARVIN L. are honored by the Flint Schools Youth The wind blows strong, but my steps never VANGILDER falter, as the sacred pipe protects me. Project. Come—Walk beside me. Together we have f the power to change the world. For I HON. ROY BLUNT am not your enemy, I am your EXPANDING AMERICAN OF MISSOURI strength. HOMEOWNERSHIP ACT OF 2007 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Monday, September 24, 2007 SPEECH OF HONORING TINA FIELDER-GIBSON Mr. BLUNT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN recognize Marvin L. VanGilder of Carthage, HON. DALE E. KILDEE OF RHODE ISLAND Missouri on receiving the Outstanding Missouri IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF MICHIGAN Citizen Award. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, September 18, 2007 Marvin was born on September 24, 1926 in Lamar, Missouri—in Barton County. He at- Monday, September 24, 2007 The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union had under tended Drury College in Springfield where he Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today consideration the bill (H.R. 1852) to mod- was involved with the area’s first campus radio to pay tribute to Tina Fielder-Gibson. She is ernize and update the National Housing Act station. During college, Marvin was a student being honored by the Flint Schools Youth and enable the Federal Housing Administra- pastor of two rural churches and became a li- Projects for her contributions to the students tion to use risk-based pricing to more effec- censed minister in 1946. After teaching

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.044 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1964 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 English, history, and music for numerous IRAQ make decisive steps to developing a lasting years in Southwest Missouri, Marvin was hired solution. SPEECH OF as a disc jockey and sportscaster for radio Mr. Speaker, an increase in troop numbers station KDMO in Carthage. Marvin advanced HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS is not the answer. This war, commenced in to news director at KDMO and then took a job OF FLORIDA haste and founded on deception, will never with The Carthage Press where he worked as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES provide the solutions Iraq needs to establish a the assistant managing editor and co-pub- Monday, September 17, 2007 strong and lasting democracy. We can’t se- lisher. cure victory through a war of attrition, and nei- Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I ther can we protect our sons and daughters Marvin served his community as a member, rise today with Representative JONES and my who stand in harm’s way in a war that was and then President, of the Carthage Board of other colleagues in the Congressional Black never necessary. Education. He was also on the boards of the Caucus, in calling for a comprehensive revalu- It is true that we cannot abandon the Iraqi Sunshine Children’s Home, the Carthage Cri- ation of our strategies in Iraq. I consider the people. But more productive ways to help situation in Iraq to be one of Congress’ high- sis Center, the Eastern Jasper County Red them can be found. In the current international est priorities and there is an urgent need to Cross, the Carthage United Way, the climate, we cannot engage in meaningful dia- establish a comprehensive and realistic exit Carthage Lions Club and the Eastern Jasper logue on the Iraqi situation while the occupa- strategy. We need to offer hope to the families County Mental Health Association. tion continues. I believe we must allow the anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones U.N. to play a greater role in the reconstruc- Marvin has authored books on everything and the men and women who risk their lives tion of Iraq, advancing human rights and jus- from poetry to the history of Barton County, everyday. Missouri. On those subjects and many more, Next month will be the 40th anniversary of tice within the framework of international law. he served as a guest lecturer at numerous one of the largest protests against the Viet- In my work in this great body, I consistently schools and museums. He received the nam War. Over a hundred thousand people seek to protect the United States and its peo- ple above all else. However, currently there is George Washington Medal of Freedoms Foun- marched on Washington that day, and it wor- no absolute proof of an imminent threat. In dation at Valley Forge Award in 1971, the ries me that the current Administration seems fact our vulnerability to international terrorism Drury College Distinguished Alumni award and to have learned little from history. A similar only rises every day our troops stay in Iraq. was the first citizen of Carthage to receive the discontent can be seen on the streets of Mr. Speaker, I am dedicated to providing Carthage Chamber of Commerce Citizen of America today, as more and more polls dem- funding to protect our troops, but I refuse to the Year award. Marvin was married on Octo- onstrate dwindling public support for this war. support the failed foreign policies of the Bush ber 15, 1950 to E. Irene Smith VanGilder and I have always maintained the stance that an adequate case for war was never made and administration, nor any legislation that will lead they have four daughters Paula, Linda, Leesa that military intervention should only have to more unnecessary deaths. The greatest and Carla, one son Chris, nine grandchildren been used if all other routes failed. From the thing we can do for our brave men and and one great-grandchild. beginning, I offered an alternative resolution to women in the Armed Forces is to take them I am proud to congratulate Marvin VanGilder war. Although we can never know what the out of harm’s way by developing a clear, deci- on his years of service as a leader in our com- outcome of alternatives may have been, we sive exit strategy. munity, and across our State. have the chance now to change strategy and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A24SE8.047 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1965 SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS H.R. 3106 and S. 2023, bills to designate 10 a.m. Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, the facility of the United States Postal Finance agreed to by the Senate on February 4, Service located at 805 Main Street in To hold hearings to examine the efficacy 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- Ferdinand, Indiana, as the ‘‘Staff Ser- of national border security. tem for a computerized schedule of all geant David L. Nord Post Office’’, H.R. SD–215 2765, to designate the facility of the Judiciary meetings and hearings of Senate com- United States Postal Service located at To hold hearings to examine S. 2035, to mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- 44 North Main Street in Hughesville, maintain the free flow of information tees, and committees of conference. Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Master Sergeant to the public by providing conditions This title requires all such committees Sean Michael Thomas Post Office’’, and for the federally compelled disclosure to notify the Office of the Senate Daily the nomination of Julie L. Myers, of of information by certain persons con- Digest—designated by the Rules Com- Kansas, to be Assistant Secretary of nected with the news media, S.J. Res. mittee—of the time, place, and purpose Homeland Security. 13, granting the consent of Congress to of the meetings, when scheduled, and SD–342 the International Emergency Manage- any cancellations or changes in the Rules and Administration ment Assistance Memorandum of Un- Business meeting to consider the nomi- derstanding, S. 980, to amend the Con- meetings as they occur. nations of Robert Charles Tapella, of trolled Substances Act to address on- As an additional procedure along Virginia, to be Public Printer, Steven line pharmacies, S. Con. Res. 45, com- with the computerization of this infor- T. Walther, of Nevada, Hans von mending the Ed Block Courage Award mation, the Office of the Senate Daily Spakovsky, of Georgia, David M. Foundation for its work in aiding chil- Digest will prepare this information for Mason, of Virginia, and Robert D. dren and families affected by child printing in the Extensions of Remarks Lenhard, of Maryland, all to be a Mem- abuse, and designating November 2007 section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD bers of the Federal Election Commis- as National Courage Month, S. Res. 258, on Monday and Wednesday of each sion. recognizing the historical and edu- week. SR–301 cational significance of the Atlantic Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Sep- Small Business and Entrepreneurship Freedom Tour of the Freedom Schoo- ner Amistad, and expressing the sense tember 25, 2007 may be found in the To hold hearings to examine improving internet access to help small business of the Senate that preserving the leg- Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. compete in a global economy. acy of the Amistad story is important MEETINGS SCHEDULED SR–428A in promoting multicultural dialogue, 2 p.m. education, and cooperation, S. 1267, to SEPTEMBER 26 Appropriations maintain the free flow of information 9:30 a.m. To hold hearings to examine proposed to the public by providing conditions Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs budget estimates for fiscal year 2008 for for the federally compelled disclosure To hold hearings to examine the role and the President’s supplemental request of information by certain persons con- impact of credit rating agencies on the for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. nected with the news media, and the subprime credit markets. SD–106 nomination of James Russell Dedrick, SD–538 2:30 p.m. to be United States Attorney for the Environment and Public Works Judiciary Eastern District of Tennessee. To hold hearings to examine the impacts To hold hearings to examine the nomina- SD–226 of global warming on the Chesapeake tion of Michael J. Sullivan, of Massa- Commission on Security and Cooperation Bay. chusetts, to be Director, Bureau of Al- in Europe SD–406 cohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explo- To hold hearings to examine human 10 a.m. sives. rights defenders in Russia. Energy and Natural Resources SD–226 2212RHOB To hold hearings to examine S. 1543, to 10:30 a.m. establish a national geothermal initia- SEPTEMBER 27 Commerce, Science, and Transportation tive to encourage increased production Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security of energy from geothermal resources. 9 a.m. Subcommittee SD–366 Indian Affairs To hold hearings to examine congestion Finance Business meeting to consider pending and delays impacting travelers, focus- To hold hearings to examine offshore tax calendar business; to be immediately ing on possible solutions. issues, focusing on reinsurance and followed by an oversight hearing to ex- SR–253 hedge funds. amine the prevalence of violence 2 p.m. SD–215 against Indian women. Judiciary Homeland Security and Governmental Af- SD–628 Antitrust, Competition Policy and Con- fairs 9:30 a.m. sumer Rights Subcommittee Business meeting to consider H.R. 2654, Armed Services To hold hearings to examine the Google– to designate the facility of the United To hold hearings to examine the nomina- DoubleClick merger and the online ad- States Postal Service located at 202 tions of Gen. William E. Ward, United vertising industry, focusing on the South Dumont Avenue in Woonsocket, States Army, for reappointment to the risks for competition and privacy. South Dakota, as the ‘‘Eleanor McGov- grade of General and to be Commander, SD–226 ern Post Office Building’’, H.R. 2467, to United States Africa Command, Gen. 2:30 p.m. designate the facility of the United Kevin P. Chilton, to be General, United Commerce, Science, and Transportation States Postal Service located at 69 States Air Force, for reappointment to Business meeting to consider S. 1578, to Montgomery Street in Jersey City, the grade of General and to be Com- amend the Nonindigenous Aquatic Nui- New Jersey, as the ‘‘Frank J. Guarini mander, United States Strategic Com- sance Prevention and Control Act of Post Office Building’’, H.R. 2587, to des- mand, Lt. Gen. James N. Mattis, 1990 to establish vessel ballast water ignate the facility of the United States United States Marine Corps, to be Gen- management requirements, S. 1889, to Postal Service located at 555 South 3rd eral and to be Commander, United amend title 49, United States Code, to Street Lobby in Memphis, Tennessee, States Joint Forces Command and Su- improve railroad safety by reducing ac- as the ‘‘Kenneth T. Whalum, Sr. Post preme Allied Commander for Trans- cidents and to prevent railroad fatali- Office Building’’, H.R. 2778, to des- formation, and Admiral Gary ties, injuries, and hazardous materials ignate the facility of the United States Roughead, United States Navy, for re- releases, S. 1453, to extend the morato- Postal Service located at 3 Quaker appointment to the grade of Admiral rium on taxes on Internet access and Ridge Road in New Rochelle, New and to be Chief of Naval Operations. multiple and discriminatory taxes on York, as the ‘‘Robert Merrill Postal SH–216 electronic commerce imposed by the Station’’, H.R. 2825, to designate the fa- Energy and Natural Resources Internet Tax Freedom Act, S. 1965, to cility of the United States Postal Serv- To hold hearings to examine hard–rock protect children from cybercrimes, in- ice located at 326 South Main Street in mining on federal lands. cluding crimes by online predators, to Princeton, Illinois, as the ‘‘Owen SD–366 enhance efforts to identify and elimi- Lovejoy Princeton Post Office Build- Veterans’ Affairs nate child pornography, and to help ing’’, H.R. 3052, to designate the facil- To hold hearings to examine the nomina- parents shield their children from ma- ity of the United States Postal Service tion of Paul J. Hutter, of Virginia, to terial that is inappropriate for minors, located at 954 Wheeling Avenue in be General Counsel, Department of S.J. Res. 17, directing the United Cambridge, Ohio, as the ‘‘John Her- Veterans Affairs. States to initiate international discus- schel Glenn, Jr. Post Office Building’’, SD–562 sions and take necessary steps with

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M24SE8.000 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS E1966 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 24, 2007 other Nations to negotiate an agree- amend the National Underground Rail- OCTOBER 2 ment for managing migratory and road Network to Freedom Act of 1998 to 10 a.m. transboundary fish stocks in the Arctic provide additional staff and oversight Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Ocean, and S. Con. Res. 39, supporting of funds to carry out the Act, S. 1808, To hold hearings to examine issues and the goals and ideals of a world day of to authorize the exchange of certain challenges facing current mine safety remembrance for road crash victims, land in Denali National Park in the disasters. and a promotion list in the United State of Alaska, S. 1969, to authorize SD–430 States Coast Guard. the Secretary of the Interior to con- SR–253 duct a special resource study to deter- OCTOBER 4 Foreign Relations mine the suitability and feasibility of To hold hearings to examine the United designating Estate Grange and other 10 a.m. Nations Convention on the Law of the sites related to Alexander Hamilton’s Commerce, Science, and Transportation Sea (T.Doc. 103–39). life on the island of St. Croix in the To hold hearings to examine the security SD–419 United States Virgin Islands as a unit of our nation’s seaports. Energy and Natural Resources of the National Park System, and S. SR–253 National Parks Subcommittee 1039, to extend the authorization for To hold hearings to examine S. 148, to es- the Coastal Heritage Trail in the State OCTOBER 17 tablish the Paterson Great Falls Na- of New Jersey. tional Park in the State of New Jersey, 10 a.m. SD–366 S. 189, to decrease the matching funds Commerce, Science, and Transportation 3:30 p.m. requirements and authorize additional To hold hearings to examine the digital Homeland Security and Governmental Af- appropriations for Keweenaw National television transition, focusing on gov- fairs Historical Park in the State of Michi- ernment and industry perspectives. Federal Financial Management, Govern- gan, S. 697, to establish the Steel In- SR–253 ment Information, Federal Services, dustry National Historic Site in the State of Pennsylvania, S. 1341, to pro- and International Security Sub- vide for the exchange of certain Bureau committee POSTPONEMENTS To hold hearings to examine cost effec- of Land Management land in Pima SEPTEMBER 27 County, Arizona, S. 128, to amend the tive military strategic airlift require- 10 a.m. Cache La Poudre River Corridor Act to ments in the 21st century. Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions designate a new management entity, SD–342 make certain technical and conforming To hold hearings to examine the fiftieth amendments, enhance private property SEPTEMBER 28 anniversary of the Little Rock High protections, S. 1476, to authorize the 10 a.m. School desegregation, focusing on en- Secretary of the Interior to conduct Homeland Security and Governmental Af- suring equal opportunity in public edu- special resources study of the Tule fairs cation. Lake Segregation Center in Modoc Oversight of Government Management, the SD–430 County, California, to determine suit- Federal Workforce, and the District of ability and feasibility of establishing a Columbia Subcommittee unit of the National Park System, S. To hold hearings to examine the role of 867 and H.R. 299, bills to adjust the Federal Executive Boards in pandemic boundary of Lowell National Historical preparedness. Park, S. 1709 and H.R. 1239, bills to SD–342

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:53 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M24SE8.000 E24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMREMARKS Monday, September 24, 2007 Daily Digest

HIGHLIGHTS Senate agreed to the conference report to accompany H.R. 1495, Water Resources Development Act. Senate Nominations confirmed: Senate confirmed the fol- Chamber Action lowing nominations: Routine proceedings, pages S11967–S12012 Ted Poe, of Texas, to be a Representative of the Measures Introduced: One bill and four resolutions United States of America to the Sixty-second Session were introduced, as follows: S. 2086, and S. Res. of the General Assembly of the United Nations. 326–329. Page S12002 (Prior to this action, Committee on Foreign Rela- Measures Reported: tions was discharged from further consideration. H.J. Res. 43, increasing the statutory limit on the William Delahunt, of Massachusetts, to be a Rep- resentative of the United States of America to the public debt. (S. Rept. No. 110–184) Page S12002 Sixty-second Session of the General Assembly of the Measures Passed: United Nations. Condemning Assassination of Antoine Ghanem: (Prior to this action, Committee on Foreign Rela- Senate agreed to S. Res. 328, condemning the assas- tions was discharged from further consideration.) sination on September 19, 2007, of Antoine Page S12012 Ghanem, a member of the Parliament of Lebanon Messages from the House: Page S12002 who opposed Syrian interference in Lebanon. Measures Placed on the Calendar: Page S12002 Pages S12010–11 Southern Illinois University Edwardsville 50th Executive Reports of Committees: Page S12002 Anniversary: Senate agreed to S. Res. 329, con- Additional Cosponsors: Pages S12002–04 gratulating Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Pages S12011–12 Pages S12004–05 Water Resources Development Act—Conference Additional Statements: Pages S12000–02 Report: By 81 yeas and 12 nays (Vote No. 347), Senate agreed to the conference report to accompany Amendments Submitted: Pages S12005–10 H.R. 1495, to provide for the conservation and de- Notices of Hearings/Meetings: Page S12010 velopment of water and related resources, to author- Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S12010 ize the Secretary of the Army to construct various Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. projects for improvements to rivers and harbors of (Total—347) Page S11995 the United States. Pages S11974–96 Adjournment: Senate convened at 2 p.m. and ad- National Defense Authorization Act—Agree- journed at 7:04 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sep- ment: A unanimous-consent agreement was reached tember 25, 2007. (For Senate’s program, see the re- providing that at approximately 11 a.m., on Tues- marks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on day, September 25, 2007, Senate will resume consid- page S12012.) eration of H.R. 1585, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for military activities of the Depart- ment of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel. Page S12012 D1247

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:07 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24SE7.REC D24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMDIGEST D1248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST September 24, 2007 activity in the United States, after receiving testi- Committee Meetings mony from Ann Bartuska, Deputy Chief, Research (Committees not listed did not meet) and Development, and Susan Conard, National Pro- gram Leader, Fire Ecology Research, both of the For- IMPACTS OF GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE est Service, Department of Agriculture; Thomas W. ON WILDFIRE ACTIVITY Swetnam, University of Arizona, Tucson; and John Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee A. Helms, University of California Department of concluded a hearing to examine scientific assessments Forestry and Resource Management, Berkeley, on be- of the impacts of global climate change on wildfire half of the Society of American Foresters. h House of Representatives months, with an amendment (H. Rept. 110–345); Chamber Action and Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 15 pub- H. Res. 675, providing for consideration of the lic bills, H.R. 3633–3647; and 8 resolutions, H.J. Senate amendments to the bill (H.R. 679) to amend Res. 51; H. Con. Res. 217–218 and H. Res. the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax 670–674 were introduced. Pages H10755–56 relief for small businesses, and for other purposes (H. Additional Cosponsors: Pages H10756–58 Rept. 110–346). Pages H10754–55 Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she H.R. 3046, to amend the Social Security Act to appointed Representative Hirono to act as Speaker enhance Social Security account number privacy pro- Pro Tempore for today. Page H10699 tections, to prevent fraudulent misuse of the Social Recess: The House recessed at 12:38 p.m. and re- Security account number, and to otherwise enhance convened at 2 p.m. Page H10700 protection against identity theft, with an amendment Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules (H. Rept. 110–339); and pass the following measures: H.R. 3121, to restore the financial solvency of the national flood insurance program and to provide for Encouraging participation in hunting and fish- such program to make available multiperil coverage ing, and supporting the goals and ideals of Na- for damage resulting from windstorms and floods, tional Hunting and Fishing Day and the efforts with an amendment (H. Rept. 110–340); of hunters and fishermen toward the scientific H.R. 1199, to extend the grant program for drug- management of wildlife and conservation of the endangered children (H. Rept. 110–341, Pt. 1); natural environment: H. Res. 634, amended, to en- H.R. 1943, to provide for an effective HIV/AIDS courage participation in hunting and fishing, and to program in Federal prisons (H. Rept. 110–342); support the goals and ideals of National Hunting H. Res. 79, recognizing the establishment of and Fishing Day and the efforts of hunters and fish- Hunters for the Hungry programs across the United ermen toward the scientific management of wildlife States and the contributions of those programs’ ef- and conservation of the natural environment; forts to decrease hunger and help feed those in need Pages H10701–02 (H. Rept. 110–343); Honoring the 75th anniversary of Brookgreen H. Con. Res. 25, expressing the sense of Congress Gardens in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina: H. that it is the goal of the United States that, not later Con. Res. 186, to honor the 75th anniversary of than January 1, 2025, the agricultural, forestry, and Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, South Caro- working land of the United States should provide lina; Page H10702 from renewable resources not less than 25 percent of Recognizing all hunters across the United States the total energy consumed in the United States and for their continued commitment to safety: H. Con. continue to produce safe, abundant, and affordable Res. 193, to recognize all hunters across the United food, feed, and fiber (H. Rept. 110–344, Pt. 1); States for their continued commitment to safety, by H.R. 3375, to extend the trade adjustment assist- a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 385 yeas with none voting ance program under the Trade Act of 1974 for 3 ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 891; Pages H10702–03, H10734

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:07 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24SE7.REC D24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMDIGEST September 24, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1249 Expressing the sense of the House of Representa- 668, to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Sep- tives that a day ought to be established to bring tember 25, 1957, desegregation of Little Rock Cen- awareness to the issue of missing persons: H. Res. tral High School by the Little Rock Nine, by a 2⁄3 303, to express the sense of the House of Represent- yea-and-nay vote of 387 yeas with none voting atives that a day ought to be established to bring ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 892; Pages H10724–27, H10734–35 awareness to the issue of missing persons; Drug Endangered Children Act of 2007: H.R. Pages H10703–04 1199, to extend the grant program for drug-endan- Supporting the goals and ideals of Gold Star gered children, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 389 yeas Mothers Day: H. Res. 605, to support the goals and to 4 nays, Roll No. 893; Pages H10727–29, H10735–36 ideals of Gold Star Mothers Day; Pages H10706–13 Expressing the sense of the House of Representa- Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial tives of the importance of providing a voice for the Commemoration Act of 2007: H.R. 1520, to estab- many victims (and families of victims) involved in lish the Champlain Quadricentennial Commemora- missing persons cases and unidentified human re- tion Commission and the Hudson-Fulton 400th mains cases: H. Res. 340, to express the sense of the Commemoration Commission; Page H10709 House of Representatives of the importance of pro- Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 Bicen- viding a voice for the many victims (and families of tennial Commission Act: H.R. 1389, amended, to victims) involved in missing persons cases and un- establish the Star-Spangled Banner and War of 1812 identified human remains cases, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay Bicentennial Commission; Pages H10713–16 vote of 389 yeas to 1 nay, Roll No. 894; Authorizing grants for contributions toward the Pages H10729–30, H10736 establishment of the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Financial Services Diversity Initiative: H. Con. Library: H.R. 1664, to authorize grants for con- Res. 140, amended, to recognize the low presence of tributions toward the establishment of the Woodrow minorities in the financial services industry and mi- Wilson Presidential Library; Pages H10716–18 norities and women in upper level positions of man- Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act agement, and to express the sense of the Congress of 2007: H.R. 3540, amended, to amend the Inter- that active measures should be taken to increase the nal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend the funding demographic diversity of the financial services indus- and expenditure authority of the Airport and Airway try; and Pages H10730–32 Trust Fund; Pages H10718–20 Supporting the goals and ideals of Federal Cred- Agreed to amend the title to read as follows: ‘‘To it Union Month and recognizing the importance of amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend Federal credit unions to the economy, and their the funding and expenditure authority of the Airport critical mission in serving those of modest means: and Airway Trust Fund, and for other purposes.’’. H. Res. 658, to support the goals and ideals of Fed- Page H10720 eral Credit Union Month and to recognize the im- Recognizing the establishment of Hunters for the portance of Federal credit unions to the economy, Hungry programs across the United States and the and their critical mission in serving those of modest contributions of those programs’ efforts to decrease means. Pages H10732–33 hunger and help feed those in need: H. Res. 79, to recognize the establishment of Hunters for the Hun- Recess: The House recessed at 5:05 p.m. and recon- gry programs across the United States and the con- vened at 6:30 p.m. Page H10733 tributions of those programs’ efforts to decrease hun- Suspensions—Proceedings Postponed: The House ger and help feed those in need; Pages H10720–21 debated the following measures under suspension of Pesticide Registration Improvement Renewal the rules. Further proceedings were postponed until Act: S. 1983, to amend the Federal Insecticide, Fun- a later date: gicide, and Rodenticide Act to renew and amend the Supporting the goals and ideals of ‘‘National provisions for the enhanced review of covered pes- Life Insurance Awareness Month’’: H. Res. 584, to ticide products, to authorize fees for certain pesticide support the goals and ideals of ‘‘National Life Insur- products, and to extend and improve the collection ance Awareness Month’’; Pages H10704–06 of maintenance fees—clearing the measure for the Supporting the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell President; Pages H10721–24 Disease Awareness Month: H. Con. Res. 210, to Recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Sep- support the goals and ideals of Sickle Cell Disease tember 25, 1957, desegregation of Little Rock Cen- Awareness Month; and Pages H10706–07 tral High School by the Little Rock Nine: H. Res.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:07 Sep 25, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D24SE7.REC D24SEPT1 hmoore on PRODPC68 with HMDIGEST D1250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST September 24, 2007 Supporting the goals and ideals of Veterans of Katrina and Rita, focusing on housing needs in the Gulf Foreign Wars Day: H. Res. 663, to support the Coast, 9:30 a.m., SD–538. goals and ideals of Veterans of Foreign Wars Day. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: to hold hear- Pages H10707–09 ings to examine S. 1756, to provide supplemental ex gratia compensation to the Republic of the Marshall Is- Senate Messages: Message received from the Senate lands for impacts of the nuclear testing program of the by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the United States, 10 a.m., SD–366. House today and a message received from the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works: to hold hear- today appear on pages H10700 and H10736. ings to examine green jobs created by global warming Senate Referrals: S. 456 was referred to the Com- initiatives, 2 p.m., SD–406. mittee on the Judiciary, the Committee on Energy Committee on Finance: to hold hearings to examine home and community based care, focusing on expanding op- and Commerce, and the Committee on Education tions for long-term care, 10 a.m., SD–G50. and Labor. Page H10735 Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- Quorum Calls—Votes: Four yea-and-nay votes de- ine the nominations of David T. Johnson, of Georgia, to veloped during the proceedings of today and appear be an Assistant Secretary of State (International Narcotics on pages H10734, H10734–35, H10735–36 and and Law Enforcement Affairs), P. Robert Fannin, of Ari- H10736. There were no quorum calls. zona, to be Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, and Paul E. Simons, of Virginia, to be Ambassador to the Re- Adjournment: The House met at 12:30 p.m. and public of Chile, 2:30 p.m., SD–419. adjourned at 9:56 p.m. Committee on the Judiciary: to hold hearings to examine strengthening the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Committee Meetings (FISA), focusing on the efficacy of the Protect America Act, 9:30 a.m., SH–216. CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE Full Committee, to hold hearings to examine the PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF nominations of John Daniel Tinder, of Indiana, to be 2007 United States Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit, and Committee on Rules: Granted, by a vote of 8 to 4, a Robert M. Dow, Jr., to be United States District Judge rule providing for consideration of the Senate for the Northern District of Illinois, 2:30 p.m., SD–226. amendments to the bill, H.R. 976, to amend the In- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: to hold an oversight hear- ternal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax relief for ing to examine research and treatment for Gulf War ill- nesses, 9:30 a.m., SD–562. small businesses, and for other purposes. The rule Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to makes in order a motion by the chairman of the examine certain intelligence matters, 2 p.m., SH–219. Committee on Energy and Commerce that the House concur in each of the Senate amendments to House H.R. 976 with the respective amendment printed in Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Agri- the Rules Committee report. culture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administra- The rule waives all points of order against the tion, and Related Agencies, on Safety of Imported Foods, motion except those arising under clause 10 of the 10 a.m., 2362A Rayburn. rule XXI. The rule provides that the Senate amend- Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, on Capitol Vis- ments and the motion shall be considered as read. itor Center, 10 a.m., 2358 Rayburn. The rule provides 1 hour general debate equally Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on divided among and controlled by the chairman and Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection, hearing en- ranking minority member of the Committee on En- titled ‘‘From Imus to Industry: The Business of Stereo- ergy and Commerce and the chairman and ranking types and Degrading Images,’’ 10 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. minority member of the Committee on Ways and Committee on Financial Services, to mark up the following Means. Testimony was heard by Chairman Dingell bills: H.R. 3521, Public Housing Asset Management Im- and Representatives Pallone, Barton, and Lincoln provement Act of 2007; H.R. 2930, Section 202 Sup- portive Housing for the Elderly Act of 2007; H.R. 3355, Diaz-Balart. Homeowners’ Defense Act of 2007; and H.R. 3524, f HOPE VI Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2007; and H.R. 946, Consumer Overdraft Protection Fair COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR TUESDAY, Practices Act, 10 a.m., 2128 Rayburn. SEPTEMBER 25, 2007 Committee on Foreign Affairs, hearing on PEPFAR Reau- (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) thorization: From Emergency to Sustainability, 10 a.m., 2172 Rayburn. Senate Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global En- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: to vironment, hearing on APEC 2007: Advancing U.S. Ex- hold hearings to examine two years after Hurricanes ports to the Asia-Pacific Region, 2 p.m., 2172 Rayburn.

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Committee on Homeland Security, to mark up H.R. 2830, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Sub- Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2007, 11 a.m., 311 committee on Domestic Policy, hearing on Will NIEHS’ Cannon. new priorities protect public health? 2 p.m., 2154 Ray- Committee on the Judiciary, Task Force on Antitrust and burn. Competition Policy, oversight hearing on Antitrust Agen- Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census and Na- cies: Department of Justice Antitrust Division and Fed- tional Archives, hearing on Organ Donation: Utilizing eral Trade Commission Bureau of Competition, 1 p.m., Public Policy and Technology to Strengthen Organ 2141 Rayburn. Donor Programs, 2 p.m., 2247 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, Committee on Rules, to consider the following: H.R. hearing on Straightening Out the Mortgage Mess: How 2693, Popcorn Workers Lung Disease Prevention Act; Can We Protect Home Ownership and Provide Relief to and a measure Making continuing appropriations for the Consumers in Financial Distress? 3 p.m., 2237 Rayburn. Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and fiscal year 2008, 3 p.m., H–313 Capitol. Civil Liberties, oversight hearing on the Employment Committee on Science and Technology, Subcommittee on Section of the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Depart- Energy and Environment, hearing on Revisiting the In- ment of Justice, 10 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. dustrial Technologies Program (ITP): Achieving Indus- Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, Refugees, trial Efficiency, 2 p.m., 2318 Rayburn. Border Security, and International Law, to mark up the Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, following bills: H.R. 2405, Proud to Be an American hearing on the Contribution of the Social Sciences to the Citizen Act; H.R. 2884, Kendell Frederick Citizenship Energy Challenge, 10 a.m., 2318 Rayburn. Assistance Act; H.R. 1512, To amend the Immigration Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, hearing on and Nationality Act to provide for compensation to States Rail Competition and Service, 10 a.m., 2167 Rayburn. incarcerating undocumented aliens charged with a felony Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public or two or more misdemeanors; and H.R. 1312, Arts Re- Buildings and Emergency Management, hearing H.R. quire Timely Service (ARTS) Act, 10 a.m., 2226, Ray- 3515, To provide that the great hall of the Capitol Vis- burn. itor Center shall be known as Emancipation Hall, 2 p.m., Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water 2253 Rayburn. and Power, hearing on the following bills: H.R. 123, To Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Subcommittee on Dis- authorize appropriations for the San Gabriel Basin Res- ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs, hearing on the toration Fund; H.R. 2498, To provide for a study regard- Board of Veterans’ Appeals Adjudication Process and the ing development of a comprehensive integrated regional Appeals Management Center, 2 p.m., 334 Cannon. water management plan that would address four general Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, hearing areas of regional water planning in both the San Joaquin on VA Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers: Management River Hydrologic Region and the Tulare Lake Hydrologic Issues, 10 a.m., 334 Cannon. Region, inclusive of Kern, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, Madera, Merced, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin Counties, California, Committee on Ways and Means, to consider a measure To and to provide that such plan be the guide by which implement the United States-Peru Trade Promotion those counties use as a mechanism to address and solve Agreement, 10:30 a.m., 1100 Longworth. long-term water needs in a sustainable and equitable Subcommittee on Oversight, hearing to Examine manner; and H.R. 2535, Tule River Tribe Water Devel- Whether Charitable Organizations Serve the Needs of Di- opment Act, 10 a.m., 1324 Longworth. verse Communities, 2 p.m., 1100 Longworth.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE authorize such Act through fiscal year 2010; (4) H. Res. 548— 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 25 Expressing the ongoing concern of the House of Representa- tives for Lebanon’s democratic institutions and unwavering sup- Senate Chamber port for the administration of justice upon those responsible for the assassination of Lebanese public figures opposing Syrian Program for Tuesday: After the transaction of any morning control of Lebanon; (5) H. Res. 557—Strongly condemning the business (not to extend beyond 60 minutes), Senate will resume United Nations Human Rights Council for ignoring severe consideration of H.R. 1585, National Defense Authorization Act. human rights abuses in various countries, while choosing to (Senate will recess from 12:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. for their re- unfairly target Israel by including it as the only country perma- spective party conferences.) nently placed on the Council’s agenda; (6) H. Res. 95—Ex- pressing the sense of the House of Representatives supporting the goals and ideals of Campus Fire Safety Month; (7) H. Res. Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 25—Calling on the Board of Directors of the National High School Mock Trial Championship to accommodate students of 9 a.m., Tuesday, September 25 all religious faiths; (8) H.R. 3625—To make permanent the waiver authority of the Secretary of Education with respect to House Chamber student financial assistance during a war or other military oper- Program for Tuesday: Consideration of the following suspen- ation or national emergency; (9) H. Res. 590—Supporting the sions: (1) H. Res. 642—Expressing sympathy to and support goals and ideals of National Domestic Violence Awareness for the people and governments of the countries of Central Month and expressing the sense of the House of Representa- America, the Caribbean, and Mexico which have suffered from tives that Congress should raise awareness of domestic violence Hurricanes Felix, Dean, and Henriette and whose complete eco- in the United States and its devastating effects on families and nomic and fatality toll are still unknown; (2) H.R. 1302— communities; (10) H.R. 1943—Stop AIDS in Prison Act of Global Poverty Act of 2007; (3) H.R. 2185—To amend the 2007; (11) H. Res. 470—Supporting efforts to increase child- Tropical Forest Conservation Act of 1998 to provide debt relief hood cancer awareness, treatment, and research; and (12) H.R. to developing countries that take action to protect forests and 3375—To extend the trade adjustment assistance program coral reefs and associated coastal marine ecosystems, and to re- under the Trade Act of 1974 for 3 months.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Dingell, John D., Mich., E1951 Kucinich, Dennis J., Ohio, E1951 Pickering, Charles W. ‘‘Chip’’, Miss., Ellison, Kieth, Minn., E1960 Langevin, James R., R.I., E1963 E1960 Altmire, Jason, Pa., E1951 Farr, Sam, Calif., E1952 Lantos, Tom, Calif., E1958 Poe, Ted, Tex., E1952 Blumenauer, Earl, Ore., E1952, E1960 Hastings, Alcee L., Fla., E1964 Lipinski, Daniel, Ill., E1955 Putnam, Adam H., Fla., E1961 Blunt, Roy, Mo., E1955, E1963 Johnson, Eddie Bernice, Tex., E1961 McCotter, Thaddeus G., Mich., E1962 Schiff, Adam B., Calif., E1957 Clyburn, James E., S.C., E1957 Kanjorski, Paul E., Pa., E1955 Mahoney, Tim, Fla., E1962 Sestak, Joe, Pa., E1951, E1953, E1957 Conyers, John, Jr., Mich., E1959 Kaptur, Marcy, Ohio, E1959, E1961, Matsui, Doris O., Calif., E1956 Skelton, Ike, Mo., E1954 Costa, Jim, Calif., E1952 E1962 Mitchell, Harry E., Ariz., E1957 Thompson, Mike, Calif., E1954, E1957 Cummings, Elijah E., Md., E1955 Kildee, Dale E., Mich., E1959, E1963 Myrick, Sue Wilkins, N.C., E1960 Wexler, Robert, Fla., E1958, E1962 Davis, Tom, Va., E1953 Kirk, Mark Steven, Ill., E1953 Pascrell, Bill, Jr., N.J., E1953 Woolsey, Lynn C., Calif., E1960

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