Congressional Record United States Th of America PROCEEDINGS and DEBATES of the 110 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

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

Vol. 153 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2007 No. 61 House of Representatives The House met at 10:30 a.m. and was have considered three mammoth and On this day that millions of Ameri- called to order by the Speaker pro tem- expensive tax bills in 2001, 2003 and 2004 cans are filing their tax returns and 4 pore (Mr. HOLDEN). that refused to address the alternative million are paying the mutated, unfair f minimum tax inequity. They have alternative minimum tax, it is time to made few modest additions with broad have that critical national debate on DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO benefit like the 10-percent bracket but taxes in honest terms: TEMPORE showered their real attention, their af- Should we tax people who work at The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- fection, and huge sums of money on jobs more than people whose money fore the House the following commu- those who need help the least. In the works for them? nication from the Speaker: process, the $5.6 trillion surplus inher- Do we care about reducing the ability WASHINGTON, DC, April 17, 2007. ited by this administration has evapo- of some very privileged people to es- I hereby appoint the Honorable TIM rated, to be replaced by $2 trillion more cape taxation? HOLDEN to act as Speaker pro tempore on in additional national debt. What is our priority for tax reform? this day. In the meantime, the alternative Is it to freeze the patchwork of special NANCY PELOSI, minimum tax, signed into law by Re- interest provisions over the last 6 Speaker of the House of Representatives. publican President Richard Nixon to years? Or to prevent 32 million families f ensure that the richest of Americans, from an unjust alternative minimum MORNING HOUR DEBATES who used tax shelters, pay at least tax, and then paying billions more to some income tax, has morphed into a accountants just to calculate the dam- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tax on millions of Americans who are age? ant to the order of the House of Janu- caught because they pay their State I would hope that this is the last year ary 4, 2007, the Chair will now recog- and local taxes and are raising their that this unjust tax is used to provide nize Members from lists submitted by families but largely leaves the most unnecessary tax benefits for those who the majority and minority leaders for wealthy untouched. need them the least at the expense of morning hour debates. The Chair will Without extraordinary action, over those truly in need of tax relief. alternate recognition between the par- the course of the next 3 years the alter- f ties, with each party limited to not to native minimum tax will ensnare 32 exceed 30 minutes, and each Member, million families, virtually every two- RECESS except the majority leader, the minor- worker middle-class family with chil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ity leader, or the minority whip, lim- dren. It won’t bother the hedge fund ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair ited to not to exceed 5 minutes. manager or the NBA superstar but it declares the House in recess until noon The Chair recognizes the gentleman will tax the teacher married to the today. from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 firefighter with two kids. Because a tax Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 35 minutes. shelter now means paying your local minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- f property and income taxes but does not cess until noon. include the tremendous tax advantage ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX from capital gains, it won’t hit the f REFORM high-tech billionaire but will hit the b 1200 Mr. BLUMENAUER. Thank you, Mr. postal worker and the nurse with three AFTER RECESS Speaker. teenage kids at home. Today, 4 million Americans are pay- The zeal to make permanent these The recess having expired, the House ing the price for the misplaced tax pri- tax changes has left the needs of tens was called to order at noon. orities of the Bush administration and of millions of Americans at risk. In- f the Republicans here in Congress. For deed, the number one priority of the the last 6 years, their obsession with administration and the Republicans in PRAYER assisting the top 1⁄10 of a percent and Congress for taxation would not only The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. other favored special interests to re- make a true reform of the alternative Coughlin, offered the following prayer: duce their tax burden has riddled the minimum tax prohibitively expensive, All powerful God, yet so loving and Tax Code with more loopholes, adding it would rely on the ever-widening merciful, be present and attentive to about a million and a half more words reach of the alternative minimum tax those most in need. A Nation tossed by to that code. At the same time they to finance their schemes. violent storms and upset by tragic

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.

H3403

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.000 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3404 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 human events surrounds grieving fami- may qualify for the earned income tax those who can afford to hire them. For lies and young people in schools with credit, we will save struggling families those who must tread tax season alone, its prayers today. many thousands of dollars a dearth of regulation opens these citi- As faith-filled Abraham reveals Your Tax preparation is a multibillion-dol- zens up to Internet scams and identity own filial love as he gazed on his son lar business in America. It is useful to theft. A lack of easily accessible infor- Isaac, so we identify with any parent those who can afford it, but no one mation ensures that money-saving pro- who groans in mourning over the life- should be forced to hire an accountant visions like the earned income tax less body of a child. Bring Your love to or a preparer just to ensure that they credit go unnoticed and unutilized, bear upon the campus of Virginia Tech can enjoy the benefits that many of us costing Americans hundreds or even and all the families affected by the take for granted. Nor should the indus- thousands of dollars. crackling sound of gunfire and then the try be able to prey on taxpayers with The Taxpayer Protection Act unbearable silence that follows. unfair refund anticipation loans. changes that, turning a bureaucracy Thrown by the rush of terror and anx- This piece of legislation will improve designed for accountants into a system iety, may the people of God now reach the safeguards against fraud. By in- made for Americans. This bill will en- out to them in their overwhelming mo- creasing reporting requirements on the sure that Americans who benefit from ment of helplessness. IRS, the agency will become a vital the earned income tax credit are those You, Lord, through the prophet Isa- component in the important fight who deserve it, not only those who are iah have said You would care for the against identity theft. shrewd enough to find it. young: ‘‘The Lord, our everlasting God, As many Americans rush to file their Over the last 6 years we have seen a creator of the whole world, grows nei- taxes on time this week, we all want to tax system that has worked very well ther weary nor faint. Yet no one can feel secure that the refund we receive for the extremely rich. I urge my col- fathom God with full understanding. is no more or less than we deserve. leagues to pass the Taxpayer Protec- He gives vigor to the weary, new f tion Act. strength to the exhausted. Even if the TODAY IS TAX DAY f young and vigorous grow weary and CONGRESS NEEDS TO MAKE TAX faint, and stumble and fall, those who (Mr. KELLER of Florida asked and RELIEF PERMANENT look to the Lord will receive new life. was given permission to address the They will be lifted up on the wings of House for 1 minute.) (Mr. WALBERG asked and was given eagles. They will run and never tire. Mr. KELLER of Florida. Mr. Speak- permission to address the House for 1 They will march and never grow er, today is tax day. Millions of Ameri- minute.) weary.’’ cans will write big fat checks to Uncle Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, over We believe in You and with You, Sam. Who is paying the bill? The top 10 the past few weeks Americans across Lord God, they will live in Your pres- percent of households, families with in- our country have taken time out of ence until we are all reunited, forever comes of $100,000 or more, pay 70 per- their busy schedules to complete their and ever. cent of all Federal income taxes. Coin- 1040s, 1099s and W–2s by the April 17 Amen. cidentally, 70 percent of all the new deadline. jobs in America are created by small They did so in many different ways. f businessmen. Some planned ahead and mailed in THE JOURNAL The tax cuts of 2003 have created 7.8 their forms well before the deadline, The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- million new jobs and have given us the while others are scrambling to finish ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- lowest unemployment rate in four dec- work on their taxes until late tonight. ceedings and announces to the House ades. Unfortunately, the Democrat Today, taxpayers in south central her approval thereof. budget proposal contemplates allowing Michigan are still working to meet Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- these tax cuts to expire which will give their tax obligation for 2007. While tax nal stands approved. Americans the largest tax increase in day may be today, the average Michi- f history. gander will have to work until April 29 Under the Democrat tax increase, of this year just to pay his or her indi- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE small businesses will be hurt and 42 vidual tax bill. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman million families with children will see The $400 billion tax increase recently from Arkansas (Mr. ROSS) come for- their tax bill go up by an average of passed by Congress represents the larg- ward and lead the House in the Pledge $2,100. A married couple with two kids est tax increase in American history of Allegiance. making $60,000 will see their taxes go and could lead to a crippling economic Mr. ROSS led the Pledge of Alle- up by 60 percent. recession. giance as follows: On tax day let’s remember the hard- Americans know best how to spend I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the working families who are paying the their hard-earned money, and rather United States of America, and to the Repub- bills to Uncle Sam and oppose all new than increase the tax burden, Congress lic for which it stands, one nation under God, taxes. needs to make tax relief permanent for indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. f hardworking American families. By putting our fiscal house in order, f STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE this Congress can go a long way in re- TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT storing the trust of the American peo- (Mr. WALZ of Minnesota asked and (Mr. YARMUTH asked and was given ple and build a better, brighter future was given permission to address the permission to address the House for 1 for our country. House for 1 minute.) minute.) f Mr. WALZ of Minnesota. Madam Mr. YARMUTH. Mr. Speaker, we are Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. all still numb from yesterday’s heart- EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE 1677, the Taxpayer Protection Act of breaking tragedy in Blacksburg, Vir- TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT 2007. ginia. I want to take a moment to ex- (Mr. ELLSWORTH asked and was Every year thousands of taxpayers tend my thoughts and prayers and given permission to address the House receive smaller refunds than they are those of my constituents in Louisville, for 1 minute.) entitled to. Our Tax Code is so inacces- Kentucky, to the students and faculty, Mr. ELLSWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I sible and complicated that many fami- friends and family at Virginia Tech rise today for two reasons. First of all, lies do not claim all of the credits they University. We stand with you today in I want to extend my deepest condo- so sorely need. The Taxpayer Protec- outrage and mourning, seeking answers lences to the victims of yesterday’s tion Act of 2007 will improve commu- and sharing your loss. tragedy at Virginia Tech. The people of nication between taxpayers and the I rise today in strong support of the the Eighth District of Indiana will IRS. By encouraging the Internal Rev- Taxpayer Protection Act. Our tax sys- keep them and their families in their enue Service to reach out to those that tem is tailor made for accountants and thoughts and prayers

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.005 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3405 I also rise today in support of the through the maze of Tax Code jargon, class American families. They are get- Taxpayer Protection Act. This bipar- crunching numbers and filling out ting rid of the deductions that have tisan bill empowers middle-class Hoo- forms. Today, they will once again helped jump start the economy. The sier families in the fight against iden- trust Washington with their money, simple truth is that liberals want to tity theft, and I am proud to support it. because today, Mr. Speaker, is just like take more money out of your pocket Credit cards, on-line banking and every other tax day before it. and put it into the Federal Govern- shopping on the Internet have become Mr. Speaker, Americans are fed up ment. a part of everyday life for many Hoo- with the status quo of today, and they In my State, my fellow Tennesseans siers. These tools can make life easier deserve a different tomorrow. They de- can expect to pay more than $2,600 per for Hoosier families, but they also serve a tomorrow where they won’t be year in coming years, thanks to the make Hoosiers vulnerable to criminals taxed from the day they are born until hold-on-to-your-wallet Congress that is attempting to steal identities. With the day they die and at every single in action today. modern technology, a criminal can point in between. My colleagues and I at the Repub- steal someone’s credit cards, bank ac- Americans deserve a tomorrow where lican Study Committee have recently count and Social Security number and saving and investing are virtues, not proposed a taxpayer bill of rights that then proceed to spend thousands of dol- vices. Americans deserve a tomorrow protects the taxpayer. lars in someone else’s name. where taxation brings efficient and re- It includes: In addition to saddling families with sponsible government. Americans de- 1. The right to have a Federal Government thousands of dollars in debt, these serve a tomorrow where doing their that does not grow beyond their ability to pay crimes can erase years of good credit part and paying their fair share is for it. history, denying consumers the ability enough. And they deserve a tomorrow 2. The right to receive back each dollar that to buy a house or lease a car. where government respects their hard they entrust to the Government for their retire- The Taxpayer Protection Act takes work and appreciates their sacrifice. ment. on this new threat and requires the Only then will tomorrow be any dif- 3. The right to expect the Government to Federal Government to notify tax- ferent from today. May we all work balance the budget without having their taxes payers of any suspected identity theft. positively for that new day. raised. This bill is an important step in pro- f 4. And the right to have a right to a simple, viding taxpayers the security of know- fair tax code that they can understand. ing their information is safe, and it b 1215 f will give Hoosiers the power to fight THE VIRGINIA TECH TRAGEDY WILBERFORCE identity theft. I urge my colleagues to support it. (Mr. PENCE asked and was given per- (Mr. PITTS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 f mission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- minute.) TAX DAY marks.) Mr. PITTS. Mr. Speaker, throughout (Mr. BRADY of Texas asked and was Mr. PENCE. Mr. Speaker, with the this year we will celebrate the work to given permission to address the House report of rifle fire, America changed on end one of humanity’s worst acts of infor 1 minute.) the campus of Virginia Tech yesterday. justice. It was 200 years ago that Wil- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, A prestigious campus nestled in the liam Wilberforce and his friends finally our prayers are with the Virginia Tech mountains of Virginia became home to saw success in their attempt to end the families as well. unspeakable acts of evil at the hands of British slave trade after 20 years of Paying tax is bad enough, but the a 23-year-old English major from South failed attempts. time it takes to figure them out, I Korea. To mark the anniversary of this tre- think, is almost worse. You should not The Bible tells us to mourn with mendous accomplishment, a number of need an accountant to do your taxes or those who mourn, and to pray for one efforts are under way to inform people live in fear of making an honest mis- another that we may be healed. I sim- about this often forgotten hero of hu- take. ply rise, very humbly, on behalf of the manity. A wonderful movie about the For our children’s sake, we need to good people of eastern Indiana to as- life of Wilberforce entitled ‘‘Amazing sunset this Tax Code and replace it sure the grieving families and commu- Grace’’ has been released in theaters. with something far simpler, like a flat nity of Virginia Tech that we in Indi- Another documentary on his life and tax or, my choice, a retail sales tax. ana are mourning with you and praying efforts, entitled ‘‘The Better Hour,’’ is Can you imagine never having to fill for you. expected to air on public television out a tax form again in your life? Can May God grant mercy to all those af- this fall. you imagine having the IRS com- fected by this tragedy and grant wis- I have introduced a resolution in this pletely and totally out of your life? dom to leaders in law enforcement and body honoring his life and accomplish- Let’s not forget we need to keep higher education as we apply the trag- ments. Yesterday, a contest was an- taxes low. Tax Freedom Day for Texas edy of Virginia Tech to protect our nounced for high school students chal- families is this Thursday. That is the children and campuses in the future. lenging them to follow Wilberforce’s first day since New Year’s that Texas f example by pursuing efforts to end families will begin working for them- modern-day slavery trafficking in men, TAX DAY selves, not for the government. women and children, which still My constituents are worried that the (Mrs. BLACKBURN asked and was plagues the world. new Democrat budget allows President given permission to address the House All of these events remind us that in- Bush’s tax relief to expire, which would for 1 minute and to revise and extend dividuals of character and integrity raise taxes $2,700 a year on our fami- her remarks.) really can change the world by fighting lies. Washington needs to tighten its Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, to end injustice and exploitation. That belt before it demands that our fami- today the tax man cometh, and the tax truth inspired Wilberforce in his day, lies tighten theirs. man taketh away on this very day. The and it should continue to inspire us f American people circle this on our cal- today. endar. We look forward to it with dread f STOP THE TAX MONSTER because we know that this is the day (Mr. PRICE of Georgia asked and was that the money goes in to feed an inef- THE HATE CRIMES BILL given permission to address the House ficient and ineffective, many times, (Mr. GOHMERT asked and was given for 1 minute.) Federal Government. permission to address the House for 1 Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, The current Congress has voted for minute.) today, Americans will reach deep into tax increases at every single turn. Mr. GOHMERT. Mr. Speaker, our their pockets and pay Uncle Sam. They voted for more spending while thoughts and prayers, I know, from all Today, they will finish slogging eliminating tax reductions for middle- of us here in the House go out to the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.007 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3406 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 families of those harmed and the fami- have the same force and effect as if included (c) APPRAISAL.—Valuation of private lands lies of those who were murdered there in this Act, except that the Secretary of Ag- shall be determined without reference to any at Virginia Tech. We do extend our riculture may correct clerical and typo- restrictions on access or use which arise out sympathies. graphical errors in the legal description and of designation as a wilderness area as a re- map. The map and legal description shall be sult of this Act. It seems like it would be inappro- on file and available for public inspection in SEC. 5. LAND EXCHANGES. priate to bring up legislation that we the office of the Chief of the Forest Service, The Secretary of Agriculture shall ex- are going to have a hearing on today, Department of Agriculture. change lands and interests in lands, as gen- hate crimes. The hate crimes bill we SEC. 3. ADMINISTRATION PROVISIONS. erally depicted on a map entitled ‘‘Chelan take up will say we should protect (a) IN GENERAL.— County Public Utility District Exchange’’ more those with gender identity issues, (1) Subject to valid existing rights, lands and dated May 22, 2002, with the Chelan with homosexuality issues, things like designated as wilderness by this Act shall be County Public Utility District in accordance that, than college students, because managed by the Secretary of Agriculture in with the following provisions: accordance with the Wilderness Act (16 (1) If the Chelan County Public Utility Dis- the message of the bill is this: the hate U.S.C. 1131 et seq.) and this Act, except that, trict, within ninety days after the date of en- crimes legislation says the majority of with respect to any wilderness areas des- actment of this Act, offers to the Secretary the Congress says that if you are going ignated by this Act, any reference in the Wil- of Agriculture approximately 371.8 acres to hurt someone, if you are going to derness Act to the effective date of the Wil- within the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National shoot them, brutalize them, please, derness Act shall be deemed to be a reference Forest in the State of Washington, the Sec- make it a random, senseless act of vio- to the date of enactment of this Act. retary shall accept such lands. lence like in Virginia. Don’t hate them (2) To fulfill the purposes of this Act and (2) Upon acceptance of title by the Sec- while you’re hurting them. the Wilderness Act and to achieve adminis- retary of Agriculture to such lands and in- trative efficiencies, the Secretary of Agri- terests therein, the Secretary of Agriculture That is a ridiculous message to send culture may manage the area designated by shall convey to the Chelan County Public with legislation and I hope we will this Act as a comprehensive part of the larg- Utility District a permanent easement, in- rethink it. er complex of adjacent and nearby wilderness cluding helicopter access, consistent with f areas. such levels as used as of date of enactment, (b) NEW TRAILS.— to maintain an existing telemetry site to ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER (1) The Secretary of Agriculture shall con- monitor snow pack on 1.82 acres on the PRO TEMPORE sult with interested parties and shall estab- Wenatchee National Forest in the State of lish a trail plan for Forest Service lands in The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Washington. order to develop— (3) The exchange directed by this Act shall ROSS). Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, (A) a system of hiking and equestrian be consummated if Chelan County Public the Chair will postpone further pro- trails within the wilderness designated by Utility District conveys title acceptable to ceedings today on motions to suspend this Act in a manner consistent with the the Secretary and provided there is no haz- the rules on which a recorded vote or Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1131 et seq.); and ardous material on the site, which is objec- the yeas and nays are ordered, or on (B) a system of trails adjacent to or to pro- tionable to the Secretary. which the vote is objected to under vide access to the wilderness designated by (4) In the event Chelan County Public Util- clause 6 of rule XX. this Act. ity District determines there is no longer a (2) Within two years after the date of en- need to maintain a telemetry site to monitor Record votes on postponed questions actment of this Act, the Secretary of Agri- will be taken later today. the snow pack for calculating expected run- culture shall complete a report on the imple- off into the Lake Chelan hydroelectric f mentation of the trail plan required under project and the hydroelectric projects in the this Act. This report shall include the identi- WILD SKY WILDERNESS ACT OF Columbia River Basin, the Secretary shall be fication of priority trails for development. notified in writing and the easement shall be 2007 (c) REPEATER SITE.—Within the Wild Sky extinguished and all rights conveyed by this Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move Wilderness, the Secretary of Agriculture is exchange shall revert to the United States. to suspend the rules and pass the bill authorized to use helicopter access to con- struct and maintain a joint Forest Service The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (H.R. 886) to enhance ecosystem protec- and Snohomish County telecommunications ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- tion and the range of outdoor opportu- repeater site, in compliance with a Forest izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- nities protected by statute in the Service approved communications site plan, tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) Skykomish River valley of the State of for the purposes of improving communica- each will control 20 minutes. Washington by designating certain tions for safety, health, and emergency serv- The Chair recognizes the gentleman lower-elevation Federal lands as wil- ices. from Arizona. (d) FLOAT PLANE ACCESS.—As provided by derness, and for other purposes. section 4(d)(1) of the Wilderness Act (16 GENERAL LEAVE The Clerk read the title of the bill. U.S.C. 1133(d)(1)), the use of floatplanes on Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask The text of the bill is as follows: Lake Isabel, where such use has already be- unanimous consent that all Members H.R. 886 come established, shall be permitted to con- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tinue subject to such reasonable restrictions tend their remarks and include extra- resentatives of the United States of America in as the Secretary of Agriculture determines neous material on the bill under con- Congress assembled, to be desirable. sideration. (e) EVERGREEN MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT.—The SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. designation under this Act shall not preclude The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Wild Sky the operation and maintenance of the exist- objection to the request of the gen- Wilderness Act of 2007’’. ing Evergreen Mountain Lookout in the tleman from Arizona? SEC. 2. ADDITIONS TO THE NATIONAL WILDER- same manner and degree in which the oper- There was no objection. NESS PRESERVATION SYSTEM. ation and maintenance of such lookout was Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, H.R. (a) ADDITIONS.—The following Federal occurring as of the date of enactment of this 886, introduced by the gentleman from lands in the State of Washington are hereby Act. Washington State, Representative RICK designated as wilderness and, therefore, as SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION FOR LAND ACQUISITION. LARSEN, would designate a 106,000-acre components of the National Wilderness Pres- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Agri- wilderness on national forest lands in ervation System: certain lands which com- culture is authorized to acquire lands and in- the State of Washington. The proposed prise approximately 106,000 acres, as gen- terests therein, by purchase, donation, or ex- erally depicted on a map entitled ‘‘Wild Sky change, and shall give priority consideration wilderness, to be known as the Wild Wilderness Proposal’’ and dated February 6, to those lands identified as ‘‘Priority Acqui- Sky Wilderness, has probably been 2007, which shall be known as the ‘‘Wild Sky sition Lands’’ on the map described in sec- more studied and reviewed than any re- Wilderness’’. tion 2(a). The boundaries of the Mt. Baker- cent wilderness considered by the Nat- (b) MAP AND LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS.—As soon Snoqualmie National Forest and the Wild ural Resources Committee. as practicable after the date of enactment of Sky Wilderness shall be adjusted to encom- This is not a new matter. Nearly this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall pass any lands acquired pursuant to this sec- identical legislation was approved by file a map and a legal description for the wil- tion. the committee in the 107th Congress. derness area designated under this Act with (b) ACCESS.—Consistent with section 5(a) of the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- the Wilderness Act (16 U.S.C. 1134(a)), the This message was subject to a hearing sources of the Senate and the Committee on Secretary of Agriculture shall ensure ade- in 2004, at which time the administra- Natural Resources of the House of Rep- quate access to private inholdings within the tion testified they do not object to its resentatives. The map and description shall Wild Sky Wilderness. passage.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.009 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3407 Further, similar legislation has ness to do so. In the future we hope compromise. My staff and the staff of passed the Senate in each of the last that the majority would work with us. Senator PATTY MURRAY, who is the three Congresses. The proposed wilder- Wilderness areas affect local commu- bill’s prime sponsor in the Senate, have ness includes significant low-level ele- nities, are permanent, and many times worked over the last 5 years to address vation wilderness that is home to im- have ramifications or unintended con- local concerns. As a result of this com- portant fish and wildlife populations. sequences. We ask the majority to take munity input, the original idea of a This new wilderness would link with these bills seriously and study them in 120,000-acre proposal has been whittled previously designated wilderness in the good faith before hurriedly passing down to the 106,000-acre bill that we national forest and would be within a them on to the House floor. are voting on today. few hours’ distance from half of the Mr. Speaker, I have no additional The spirit of compromise has been a population of Washington State. speakers, and I yield back the balance constant in this bill’s development The Wild Sky Wilderness has signifi- of my time. over the last 5 years. This past winter, cant State and local support in Wash- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield as an example, massive floods altered ington. State officials, local elected of- 5 minutes to my colleague, the sponsor the path of the Skykomish River, dis- ficials, businesses, and church groups of this legislation before us today, the placing and destroying parts of the pri- have all gone on record supporting the gentleman from Washington (Mr. mary road that snakes through the wilderness designation. LARSEN). proposed wilderness area. Immediately, Mr. Speaker, the time has come to Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Senator MURRAY and I brought to- designate this wilderness. I would like Speaker, I rise today in support of cre- gether Snohomish County, the Forest to commend my colleague, Representa- ating the first wilderness area for Service and local advocates to respon- Washington State in over 20 years. The tive LARSEN, and other Members of the sibly adjust the boundaries of the pro- Wild Sky Wilderness will be unique, Washington delegation for their perse- posed wilderness to ensure that the protecting 106,000 acres of the most verance in seeking a wilderness des- road could be repaired and remain open pristine forests and streams in my dis- ignation for this magnificent area. in the future. trict, while providing a clean and ac- We support passage of H.R. 886 and The spirit of compromise has earned cessible place to hike, hunt, and fish. urge its adoption today. the support of groups such as the Wash- The Wild Sky Wilderness Act has Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of ington Sea Plane Pilots Association, been carefully crafted, and it reflects my time. local tribes, the Wild Steelhead Coali- years of community input. It will pro- Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield tion, the Back Country Horsemen and tect the peaks, forests and lakes of the myself such time as I may consume. the Washington Coalition of Citizens Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National I would like to begin by compli- with Disabilities. Additionally, my of- Forest, as well as thousands of acres of menting Representative LARSEN for the fice has received approximately 4,000 lower-elevation forest and salmon- hard work he has put into this legisla- letters and e-mails in support of the bearing streams. Wild Sky will protect tion and for proposing wilderness only Wild Sky and a petition with over more lower-elevation acres than any in his district. This would seem to be a 10,000 names in support. Over 5 years of other wilderness area in Washington basic sensible courtesy, but seems to be collaboration and compromise has re- State, bringing wilderness closer to our lost on some of his fellow Democrats. sulted in a bill that has gained broad communities and benefiting Wash- With that said, the minority is op- support in the best tradition of past ington families and businesses for gen- posed to this bill. During the markup Washington State wilderness areas. It erations to come. in the Natural Resources Committee, is time to create the next generation of Congress passed the last national for- Washington State wilderness. the minority pledged its willingness to est wilderness act in 1984 when a bipar- work with the majority, but this offer Finally, I want to thank Chairman tisan effort brought a bill to President RAHALL and his staff, Jim Zoia and must have fallen upon deaf ears. In the Ronald Reagan for signature that cre- future, we hope the majority can at Rick Healy, for their tremendous help ated, among other areas, the Henry M. and unwavering support for the Wild least contact us after we make such a Jackson Wilderness. This Wild Sky gesture. Sky Wilderness Act. Wilderness Act has strong bipartisan Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, I would Much of the area that would be des- support as well. This bill has received ignated by this bill does not qualify as like to submit the following names for strong support from local Republican the RECORD. These people conceived, wilderness. The 1964 Wilderness Act and Democratic legislators, former Re- states explicitly that wilderness areas fine-tuned, negotiated, along with publican Governors, and our current many other people, the boundaries of should be primitive and untrammeled Democratic Governor, Christine by man. Yet the Wild Sky Wilderness the Wild Sky. Without their tireless ef- Gregoire. Additionally, State legisla- fort, we would not be here today, and Act includes several roads, a bridge, tors and the Snohomish County Execu- numerous culverts, and other man- we owe them our thanks as well. tive have expressed their support. Mike Town, John Leary, Larry Romans, made developments. The Wild Sky Wilderness Act has The proposal also includes areas with Tom Uniack, Rick McGuire, Mark Lawler, local support. The former mayor of the Harry Romberg, Norm Winn, Don Parks, mining patents and lands identified by town of Index, the closest local govern- Charlie Raines, Jon Owen, Michael Carroll, the Forest Service for timber harvest. ment to the proposed wilderness, has Jill Mckinnie, Brandon Hall, Christian Gun- Moreover, according to the Forest said that ‘‘the Wild Sky Wilderness ter, Jasper MacSlarrow, Louis Lauter, Doug Service, road corridors within the wil- will be the best thing that ever hap- Clapp, Abbey Levenshus, Charla Newman, derness are too narrow to ensure prop- pened in the valley.’’ The cities of Mon- Amanda Mahnke, Kim Johnston, Jeff er road maintenance and safe passage roe and Snohomish, both located on Bjornstad, Jaime Shimek, Karen Waters, by travelers. Without sufficient cor- Highway 2 on the way to the Wild Sky, John Engber, Rachelle Hein, Cindy Lewis, ridors, landslides or other natural dis- Christy Gullion, Nalani Askov, Michelle have passed resolutions of support. Ackerman, Jennifer Ekstrom, Doug Scott, turbances could permanently block or The Wild Sky Wilderness Act has Bill Arthur, Doug Walker, Bill & Sue Cross, destroy the road. strong business support. REI, Inc., the Bob Hubbard, Conway Leovy, Mark Heckert, Restrictions associated with the wil- Nation’s largest consumer cooperative Kem Hunter, Aaron Reardon, Peter Jackson, derness areas prohibit the use of with its focus on the outdoor adven- Tracy Nagelbush, Brian Bonlender, Michelle mechanized or motorized activities, ture, is an endorser, as are David and Koppes, Dave Sommers, Amit Ronen, Carrie which would surely be needed to pre- Lynn Meier, co-owners of A Stone’s Desmond. pare a road. It is disingenuous for the Throw Bed and Breakfast and A Cabin Finally I would like to thank the late Karen majority to tout the public’s ability to in the Sky vacation rental just down M. Fant, 1949–2006. Throughout her adult life visit the Wild Sky area without pro- the way from the wild Skykomish wil- Karen spurred thousands of citizens across tecting one of the main roads that derness. Additionally, the Snohomish the State of Washington to speak up for the would allow access to the Wild Sky County Economic Development Coun- protection of wild places and wilderness. Early area. cil supports this proposal. on Karen recognized the need to bring to- We are willing to work with the ma- This bill again marks the summit of gether and involve local people in efforts to jority and have indicated our willing- a 5-year process of inclusiveness and protect wilderness. To do so she cofounded

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.010 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3408 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 and directed the Washington Wilderness Coa- grandkids. So these kids could be in that our thoughts and prayers today lition. She was instrumental in forming an ef- the same position as dad has been, are with the students of Virginia Tech fective statewide community of wilderness ad- sometime, to have a wilderness to take and their families. vocates. To those who knew her, she provided their kids and their grandkids to, and Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support never-ending inspiration and enthusiasm to they will have the same smile on their of the Wild Sky Wilderness Act of 2007, keep working for the goal of protecting wilder- faces 100 years from now as this family and I thank my colleague, Mr. LARSEN, ness and wildlands in Washington State. did that summer day up on Baring and other members of the Washington Above all, Karen saw the potential and oppor- Peak. delegation for their hard work in mov- tunity in everyone to be involved, play an im- I want to thank the people who have ing this bill forward. The Wild Sky portant role, and make a difference. been involved in this, Mike Towns spe- Wilderness Act shows what we can ac- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield cifically, a fellow who has been work- complish when small businesses, con- 3 minutes to the gentleman from Wash- ing on this for over 10 years. He is a cerned citizens, and elected officials ington, a member of the committee, teacher in Redmond, Washington. I work to preserve the environment. Representative JAY INSLEE. know he will have a big smile on his The bill allows us to protect more (Mr. INSLEE asked and was given face today, too. This is a great day for than 100,000 acres of environmentally permission to revise and extend his re- the continuation of wilderness in the sensitive land that includes habitat for marks.) State of Washington. It is just south of species such as the spotted owl and the Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Speaker, this is wil- the Jackson Wilderness Area. It is a bald eagle. Hikers, skiers, and fisher- derness the way wilderness is supposed tradition that Congressman LARSEN men of future generations will enjoy to be done. I want to compliment Con- has followed and Senator Jackson, and the same pristine natural environment. gressman LARSEN and Senator PATTY a proud tradition of wilderness in the As we protect our country’s great out- MURRAY for their efforts to shepherd State of Washington. Congratulations. doors, we also protect some of the and to fine-tune this bill. If anyone Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield greatest traditions. wants to see how to do a wilderness 3 minutes to the gentleman from Wash- Mr. Speaker, this bill is good for the bill, come see how this one is done to ington State, Representative BAIRD. economy, good for the environment, take into consideration all of the local Mr. BAIRD. Mr. Speaker, I simply and good for families. I hope my col- comments to pare this down to where rise to congratulate my dear friend and leagues will support this legislation. colleague, Congressman LARSEN, for we have the muscle and bone in this Mr. INSLEE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise as a his tireless efforts on this. wilderness right now. cosponsor of H.R. 886, the Wild Sky Wilder- Boy, is it the right place to do it. I This bill has been around for several Congresses. It has had wide bipartisan ness Act of 2007 to commend the House for have a picture here of Gunn and Mer- taking long overdue action on legislation to chant peaks looking north from Baring support. And as my friend, Mr. INSLEE, said, this was done the right way. Mr. designate the Wild Sky Wilderness. Today’s Peak. I climbed Baring Peak, that is approval of this well-drawn, meritorious envi- LARSEN held countless hearings, met really just a little scramble, a couple ronmental legislation is long overdue. I want to of summers ago. What is so amazing with virtually every imaginable inter- thank Congressman RICK LARSEN and Senator about the Wild Sky Wilderness, it is est group. There were compromises, sometimes difficult, sometimes painful PATTY MURRAY for their tireless persistence on both wild, and it is in the sky. It is behalf of their constituents as well as Chair- only about 55 minutes from downtown compromises. But in the end, we have a truly remarkable area of land set aside. man RAHALL for his long standing support for Seattle. the Wild Sky and for bringing this bill to the And, Mr. LARSEN, our friends in the b 1230 floor. other body, Senator MURRAY and Sen- About 2 million people can drive to ator CANTWELL, worked very vigor- As a Member of the House Natural Re- this incredible Wild Sky Wilderness in ously on this, and I congratulate them. sources Committee, I have been supportive of ARSEN about an hour, and it is a hidden gem. And, as Mr. INSLEE did, I also want to Congressman L ’s attempts to designate What you can say is that we have a congratulate the many citizen groups this area as wilderness and was continually new hidden gem that has been pro- who worked so hard on this. frustrated at the failure of the previous Chair- tected in the State of Washington to I encourage my friends on the other men of that Committee to move this legislation join the other jewels in the crown of side to recognize that no bill will be and disappointed at the reasons given for in- our wilderness and our National Park perfect, but this is about as good as action. Those arguments were without merit. System in the State of Washington, you are going to get. This is an area One of the benefits of working on this legis- and we invite people to come out and definitely worth preserving, and the lation was learning of the steadfast support see it. And if you come, what you will people on the ground support it, by and from my constituents, the new Wild Sky Wil- see is a very virgin country very close large. It is one thing to say that it is derness will be a popular and well-loved addi- to an urban area. nice for people to set aside wilderness tion to my state’s heritage of protected wild Millions of people drive by these in their own area and not other areas, landscapes. It is overwhelmingly supported by mountains on Highway 2 and don’t but doesn’t that converse also apply in my constituents, who live nearby. Indeed, the even realize how wild this country is not opposing an effort of someone to new Wild Sky Wilderness is within easy ac- right to their left as they are going set aside a wilderness in his own area? cess of the people in the entire Puget Sound east towards eastern Washington. I would think the reasoning would sug- region. There are hardly even any marked gest that it would, and I urge support This wilderness area, which is located in trails in there. So if you want wild from both sides of the aisle on this. Snohomish County, enjoys enthusiastic sup- close to an urban area, come to the I would just finally conclude with port from the county council as well as our Wild Sky Wilderness. It is a very, very this. It is not possible for us to con- elected county executive. It also has the sup- wonderful place to go. struct or build new wildlands. We can’t port of an overwhelming number of local elect- But there is a second reason I want do that; it is not within our power. ed leaders throughout the county, Democrats to point out why this wilderness is so What is within our power is to protect and Republicans alike, as well as a long list of important. The day I went up to the the small remaining areas of wildlands local Snohomish County business owners. Baring Peak, I just happened to meet a for all the future generations. This leg- Over the years that the Wild Sky Wilderness father and two of his sons he was tak- islation does an admirable job of has been before Congress it has earned ening for a hike. He told me this is one of achieving this. I urge its passage, and I thusiastic editorial support from the local the earliest hikes going into Baring commend my friend and colleague, Mr. newspaper, the Everett Herald, as well as the Lake. And if you could see the smile on LARSEN, and the entire committee for major newspapers in Seattle and across the this dad and the sort of interesting working on this. state. looks on these two kids, you know Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield I want to emphasize to my colleagues that what wilderness is about, because 2 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- in my State this is as popular and non-con- today when we establish the Wild Sky fornia, Representative MCNERNEY. troversial a proposal as it could possibly be. I Wilderness, we are giving a gift to Mr. MCNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, before am pleased to mention the support this legis- these kids and their kids and their I give my remarks, I first want to say lation enjoys from the Administration, including

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.004 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3409 the Agriculture Under Secretary, who in re- the authors of the Wilderness Act to the The question was taken; and (two- sponse to my questioning said that the Presi- House: thirds being in the affirmative) the dent will sign this bill into law. It would be nice to have our national wil- rules were suspended and the bill was On top of its stunning wild character, the derness system absolutely pure and com- passed. 106,577-acre Wild Sky Wilderness is particu- pletely free of any sign of the hand of man. A motion to reconsider was laid on larly noteworthy because it embraces lower But the fact is that we are getting a late the table. elevation lands than most of the existing Fed- start in this business of preserving America’s wilderness. Logging has occurred; wood f eral wilderness areas in our State. As a result, roads have been opened and later abandoned; EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF THE the new wilderness will afford statutory protec- cabins have been built which in time have tion to headwaters streams and watersheds decayed and fallen down; in the interest of HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES vital to the survival and restoration of healthy public health and safety and to protect the CONCERNING THE 50TH ANNIVER- runs of salmon and steelhead in the natural resources there may sometimes be SARY OF THE FLOODING OF Skykomish River, for which the area is named. lookout towers and patrol cabins. All of CELILO FALLS Passage of this legislation contributes to the these are imperfections within the wilder- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move ness. Yet how often is man able to create or important goal of protecting a greater diversity to establish anything which is truly perfect? to suspend the rules and agree to the of biological communities in our National Wil- Very, very rarely—if ever. [Congressional resolution (H. Res. 217) expressing the derness Preservation System—including deep, Record, September 24, 1969] sense of the House of Representatives forested valleys as well as towering, ice-clad Mr. Speaker, these remarks by Rep. Udall concerning the 50th anniversary of the mountain peaks. This lower elevation wilder- perfectly explicate the practical approach that flooding of Celilo Falls. ness land will provide greater opportunities for Congress has always followed as we choose The Clerk read the title of the resolu- year-round recreational adventures for Wash- lands for protection in our National Wilderness tion. ington State residents. Preservation System. He went on to further The text of the resolution is as fol- During the congressional consideration of explain that: lows: this wilderness proposal, our committee has Congress has declared it is our national H. RES. 217 dealt with a question that all too easily can policy to preserve America’s wilderness re- Whereas Celilo Falls, located near The mislead those who are not familiar with the source. Whether some prior existing imper- Dalles, Oregon, was a great fishing and trad- 1964 Wilderness Act and of the consistent ap- fection—something less than absolutely pu- ing location for Indian tribes and has been proach Congress has followed over four dec- rity—is to be accepted into the national wil- called the ‘‘Wall Street of the West’’ by his- ades now in applying the protection of that derness system should be determined by torians; historic conservation law to additional portions whether its inclusion will significantly con- Whereas artifacts suggest tribes as far as tribute to the implementation of this na- Alaska, the Great Plains and the Southwest of our Federal lands. tional policy of wilderness preservation or As Congress acts on wilderness proposals United States came to trade and fish at whether its omission will significantly ob- Celilo for over 10,000 years; such as this Wild Sky Wilderness legislation, it struct this policy. [CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Whereas the Umatilla, Nez Perce, Yakama is important that we take care to follow the September 24, 1969] and Warm Springs tribes reserved their fish- legislative history of the Wilderness Act of In keeping with the practical approach he ing rights at their usual and accustomed 1964, which was a bipartisan product of our has so cogently summarized, I want to em- places, including Celilo, when they signed committee, and the precedents consistently phasize that some of the low elevation lands treaties with the United States; laid down over the subsequent more than four within the Wild Sky Wilderness show evidence Whereas on March 10, 1957, to provide decades as Congress has enacted more than of past human use and impacts. We have hydroelectricity and irrigation, The Dalles 130 laws under both Democratic and Repub- Dam was constructed; made a careful judgment that inclusion of Whereas the completion of the dam inun- lican leadership that have designated new wil- these lands is important to serve the overall dated Celilo in six hours, quickly changing derness areas across our country. purpose of wilderness protection. As chairman the way of life for tribes that fished at It is clear that the Wilderness Act reserves Udall would have put it, every acre in the pro- Celilo; and to Congress alone the decision as to what posed Wild Sky Wilderness exhibits ‘‘substan- Whereas tribes still live and fish along the Federal lands are ‘‘suitable’’ for designation as tially all the value of wilderness.’’ We should river, exercising their treaty rights agreed wilderness. Subsection 2(a) of the Wilderness preserve it. with the Congress of the United States: Now, Act specifies that ‘‘. . . no Federal lands shall I would also like to take a moment to pay therefore, be it be designated as ‘wilderness areas’ except as tribute to Ms. Karen Fant, who devoted her life Resolved, That the House of Representa- provided for in this Act or by a subsequent tives recognizes the 50th anniversary of the to preserving wilderness and wildlife in Alaska flooding of Celilo Falls and the change of life Act.’’ Subsection 3(c) further specifies that the and the Pacific Northwest. She spent four dec- it imposed upon tribal peoples. President may make recommendations, but ades organizing for conservation, working for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- that ‘‘A recommendation of the President for groups including the Alaska Coalition, Sierra ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- designation as wilderness shall become effec- Club, Olympic Park Associates, Wild Sky izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- tive only if so provided by an Act of Con- Working Group, Washington Wilderness Coali- tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) gress.’’ tion, and Save Our Wild Salmon Coalition. Her each will control 20 minutes. Despite this full history of Congressional ac- activism spanned many years, crossed state The Chair recognizes the gentleman tion, some tried to question the inclusion of lines, and extended as far as Chongqing, from Arizona. certain lands in the Wild Sky Wilderness be- China, where she dedicated herself to devel- cause these lands showed fading evidence of oping a strategy to address environmental GENERAL LEAVE past logging, old roads, and similar evidence degradation in Asia as a board member of the Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask of human use and impact. This objection, Seattle-Chongqing Sister City Association. unanimous consent that all Members sometimes referred to as the ‘‘purity theory’’ of Karen was instrumental in passing the 1984 have 5 days to revise and extend their wilderness, is not based on an accurate un- Washington State Wilderness Act, which sets remarks and include extraneous mate- derstanding of the Wilderness Act and the in- aside over one million acres of new wilder- rial on the bill under consideration. tent of those who enacted it. ness. She also initiated the efforts to preserve The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there The new Wild Sky Wilderness includes Wild Sky. I cannot imagine a better way to objection to the request of the gen- some evidence of past human uses and im- honor Karen’s conservation legacy than for my tleman from Arizona? pacts, including evidence of logging, old log- colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 886, There was no objection. ging roads and logging railroad grades, and the Wild Sky Wilderness Act of 2007. Passage Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield some culverts installed along those roads and of this legislation is the perfect tribute to myself such time as I may consume. railroad grades. In this way, it is no different Karen’s legacy. The purpose of House Resolution 217, than many wilderness areas Congress has Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield introduced by our colleague from Or- previously designated as wilderness. back the balance of my time. egon, Mr. DAVID WU, is to express the During a debate here on the House floor in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The sense of the House of Representatives 1969, Representative Morris K. Udall, the question is on the motion offered by concerning the 50th anniversary of the former chairman of our committee and himself the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. flooding of Celilo Falls. Celilo Falls one of the architects of the Wilderness Act, GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the was a unique natural feature formed as explained this practical approach intended by rules and pass the bill, H.R. 886. the Columbia River carved a path

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.022 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3410 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 through the hard volcanic rock east of wealth for the tribes who fished in the the first time on the Dalles Dam, and the Cascade Mountains. On March 10, area. Thousands gathered to fish and within 6 hours another wild and noisy 1957, the Dalles Dam was completed, trade along the river. stretch of the mighty Columbia River flooding the historic fishing and trad- Fifty years ago, Celilo Falls changed fell silent and serene in the name of ing area around Celilo Falls. forever. In 1957, the Dalles Dam was progress. For over 10,000 years, the falls had completed a few miles downriver from Celilo Falls was also known as been an area of intense trading and Celilo. Once the dam was completed Wyam, which means echo of falling commerce for Indian tribes from as far and the flood gates closed, Celilo Falls water, or sound of water upon the away as Alaska, the Great Plains, and was inundated in just 6 hours. rocks. And, indeed, what a sound it the Southwest. The falls were also The Dalles Dam was constructed to must have been to hear the fourth larg- noted as an extremely abundant fish- provide hydroelectricity, irrigation, est river in America as it crashed over ery, where tons of Columbia River and to enable navigation. The dams basalt rocks and cliffs. Lewis and salmon were caught, dried, and traded. along the Columbia and other rivers Clark’s journals refer to the falls as a Mr. Speaker, this resolution simply created numerous benefits for the Pa- place where ‘‘the river turned on edge.’’ seeks to recognize the 50th anniversary cific Northwest. The slack water cre- This photograph here to my left is of the flooding of the falls, and to re- ated by the dams provided easy and actually one my father took as a member Celilo Falls as an important safe river navigation upriver to deliver colorized slide before the falls was in- area of fishing and trading for many goods to the inland Northwest. Today, undated. It shows the tribal members tribal peoples. barges can travel as far as Lewiston, fishing from these wooden platforms, I urge my colleagues to join me in Idaho, because of the navigable waters roped to the edge with ropes around supporting House Resolution 217, and I created by the dams. their waist. They would spread sand offer my congratulations to Congress- However, the benefits created by the out on the platforms because all the man WU for his leadership on this reso- dams changed a way of life for the trib- water made the platforms so slick, and lution. al peoples who were the first inhab- then they would engage with the dip Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of itants of the Columbia River Basin. nets to hoist 40-pound, 50-pound, 60- my time. While some may not remember Celilo pound salmon out of the river. The Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield Falls before the Dalles Dam was com- trick was not to get more than two fish myself such time as I may consume. pleted, its effects remain fresh in the in your net because that might be more H. Res. 217 recognizes the flooding of minds of many of the tribes of the Pa- than you weighed, and you ran the risk Celilo Falls in Oregon. In 1957, the U.S. cific Northwest. Recently, the 50th an- of being dragged into the river. Indeed, Corps of Engineers constructed the niversary of the flooding of the falls there was a young man who fell in the multipurpose Dalles Dam to provide was acknowledged by these tribes. This river, and later was rescued and saved much needed hydropower and irriga- event both mourned what was lost and because he ended up in a net and was tion for the Pacific Northwest. As a re- celebrated what remains today, tribal able to be pulled out. sult of the dam, the falls were inun- stories and culture, a way of life. What a river it was and what a river dated, changing the way four tribes Attendees included tribal officials and it is. As the Columbia River passed fished at the location. tribal members throughout the Pacific over these falls, the sound could be This resolution recognizes the 50th Northwest, nontribal members, and heard from miles away. During periods anniversary of that change. various Federal, State, and local gov- of high water, nearly 1 million cubic It is my understanding that this reso- ernmental officials. The attendees re- feet of water per second would pass lution will not be used for future litiga- flect the relationship of the various over these falls. Now, let me put that tion claims and legislative purposes, so groups who now work together to man- in comparison: Niagara Falls in New we have no objection. age the river for all those who live in York, 200,000 cubic feet of water passes Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and visit the region today. over those falls. my time. This resolution seeks to acknowledge b 1245 Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield and commemorate the flooding of as much time as he may consume to Celilo Falls. I urge my colleagues to A million would have passed over the sponsor of this resolution, the gen- support the resolution. these. But it wasn’t just these falls, be- tleman from Oregon (Mr. WU). Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, will the cause you see the basalt rapids contin- Mr. WU. I thank the gentleman from gentleman yield? ued on toward the Dalles for 11 miles. Arizona. Mr. WU. I yield to the gentleman So not only were there these falls, but Mr. Speaker, for thousands of years, from New Mexico. there were other rapids and falls along a village stood at Celilo Falls on the Mr. PEARCE. I would appreciate en- the way. And it was more than just a Columbia River, which today is the gaging in a brief colloquy regarding H. roaring falls or an historic and bounti- boundary between the States of Oregon Res. 217. ful fishing area. It was, as some histo- and Washington. Is it the understanding of the gen- rians noted, ‘‘the Wall Street of the Celilo Falls was known to Native tleman from Oregon that the enact- West.’’ Americans as a center for gathering ment of this resolution will not be used In his book, ‘‘The Columbia River and trade in the Pacific Northwest. It for litigation or legislative purposes? Salmon and Steelhead Trout, Their was so important that some have even Mr. WU. The gentleman is correct. Fight for Survival,’’ author Anthony called Celilo Falls the Wall Street of The purpose of the resolution is com- Netboy described the scene this way: the West. Lewis and Clark described it memorative, and limited to an expres- ‘‘Here came Indians from the interior as a great emporium where ‘‘the neigh- sion of the sense of the House of Rep- who had no fishing grounds of their boring nations assemble.’’ resentatives. own or whose fishing was poor, to trade Artifacts suggest that tribes as far Mr. PEARCE. I thank the gentleman for dried salmon, offering peltries from away as Alaska, the Great Plains, and for that clarification. Montana, jade axes from the Fraser the Southwest of the United States Mr. WU. I thank the gentleman. River area, horn of mountain sheep, came to trade at the falls for salmon Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I would baskets, rabbit or bearskins. The and other goods. The trade was so ex- yield such time as he may consume to Klamath and Modoc peoples from tensive and the number of tribes who the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. WAL- Klamath Lake brought slaves and came to Celilo was so extensive that DEN). dentalia shells, their medium of ex- the number of languages spoken devel- (Mr. WALDEN of Oregon asked and change. Trade connections with the oped into a trade jargon known as was given permission to revise and ex- Dalles, says the anthropologist Philip Chinookan, and it was used among the tend his remarks.) Drucker, in ‘Cultures of the North Pa- people conducting business at Celilo. Mr. WALDEN of Oregon. Mr. Speak- cific Coast,’ stretched across the Rock- Celilo Falls was also known as a er, colleagues, today we memorialize ies and into the Great Plains.’’ great salmon fishery. Salmon were and remember the events of more than This was one of the most significant both sacred to and provided economic 50 years ago when the gates closed for fisheries of the Columbia River. In

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.015 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3411 ‘‘Recalling Celilo,’’ author Elizabeth was warm and sunny, and hundreds of carbon emissions and is 90 percent effi- Woody writes: tribesmen gathered for this sad occa- cient. ‘‘Historically, the Wyampum lived at sion on the banks of the Columbia, the Today the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- Wyam for over 12,000 years. Estimates women wearing multi-colored flowing neers is rehabilitating the Celilo vil- vary, but Wyam is among the longest dresses and scarves, and the men awk- lage, spending $13 million to build a continuously inhabited communities in ward-fitting store clothes. Emissaries new sewer plant, new houses, a play- North America. The elders tell us we of Tommy Thompson, chief of the host ground, school and update the water have been here from time immemorial. band, the Wyams, said to be over 100 and electrical system. A new longhouse ‘‘Today we know Celilo Falls as a years old, had to seek elsewhere than was completed last year. lost landmark. It was a place as re- the Columbia for salmon because an Today we memorialize the situation vered as one’s own mother.’’ early spring thaw in the mountains at Celilo, the loss of that great falls Woody goes on to write: made it impossible to use the historic and the work that remains ahead. ‘‘What happened at Wyam was more site to catch enough fish for the fes- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I would significant than entertainment. During tival. They bought 400 pounds of salm- like to yield to the gentleman from Or- the day, women cleaned large amounts on in Portland, and members of Warm egon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) as much time of finely cut fish and hung the parts to Springs Reservation who had fishing as he may consume. dry in the heat of the arid landscape. rights at Celilo helped out with dona- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, I So abundant were the fish passing tions of venison and roots for the occa- appreciate the gentleman’s courtesy, Wyam on their upriver journey that sion. and I am pleased to join with my col- the fish caught there could feed a ‘‘The stolid, bronze-colored chief sat leagues from Oregon in recognizing the whole family through the winter. Many at the head table in the longhouse, sur- importance of the anniversary of the families had enough salmon to trade rounded by silent and respectful tribes- flooding of Celilo Falls. with other tribes or individuals for spe- men squatting on mats on the earthen Mr. Speaker, we have, in the North- cialty items. floor. Outside, slabs of salmon were west, I think, in recent years, started ‘‘No one would starve if they could being smoked over log fires tended by to re-evaluate our relationship to na- work. Even those incapable of physical women, just as when Lewis and Clark tive peoples and to the special sites work could share other talents. It was camped here in 1805 and smoked a pipe that are holy for them. a dignified existence.’’ of peace with the chief. I remember in my youth Celilo Falls The tribes called themselves ‘‘salmon ‘‘Chief Thompson blessed the first when it was a site of the native fishing, people.’’ And it is easy to understand fish caught a few days before and made going by on a train, watching the dip why. In 1805, Lewis and Clark esti- a speech in his native language that netting, pulling these fish from the mated seeing five tons of dried salmon was charged with emotion. Before it falls. It was something that I didn’t stacked in a single village near the was over, the vigorous old man was properly appreciate at the time. People Dalles. weeping. Although I did not understand in my own family were talking about The dawn of the 20th century brought a word, I could imagine the feelings the great dam that was about to be change to the area with the construc- that inspired him as he saw the last bit constructed, and using it as a meta- tion in 1913 of the Dalles-Celilo Canal, of land held by the tribe about to go phor for progress in our community. providing the first safe passage around underwater and the ancient pictur- Well, transforming the mighty Co- the falls. Then in the 1930s and 1940s, esque fishery disappear. He had seen lumbia River into a machine that has more pressures built as down-river the white settlers pour into the valley, aided navigation and electric genera- communities suffered from floods, river and the baleful impact they made on tion has had many positive aspects for traffic increased, and a Nation at war the natives’ culture. The churning the Pacific Northwest, but it has been needed more electricity to power its in- river where he had fished as a youth, devastating for the Native Americans. dustry. from rickety platforms, would become Sadly, our history, since the treaty In 1950, Congress authorized the con- a placid lake. There were tears in the of 1855, has been one where we have not struction of the Dalles Dam, and on eyes of many who listened to him. always honored even the provisions in March 10, 1957, the gates of this river- ‘‘When the First Salmon rites were those treaties to Native Americans. blocker closed and within hours, si- concluded, the chief permitted news- And particularly the site at Celilo, lence overtook Celilo Falls, Wyam and men to photograph him with his where we are talking about over 10,000 the way of life known for centuries. younger wife, Flora. Usually the fes- years of history, strikes special signifi- Now, plans for construction of the tival lasted a few days, but this time it cance. It is an unparalleled meeting dam were battled by Chief Tommy was confined to one. There were bone point for people of native tribes that, Thompson as he and the tribal mem- games in the afternoon and dances in slowly but surely, now we are starting bers knew that the end of the falls the evening. The next morning the to recognize, starting to appreciate, would mean the end of life as they had Portland Oregonian reported an inter- the Federal Government is starting to known it. But they could not stop the view with Henry Thompson, son of the invest in working with them to restore effort. Their village was relocated. The chief, who said, and I quote, ‘When the the heritage. I hope that this recogni- government paid tribal members in dam is finished and there are no more tion of the significance of the 50th an- one-time sums of nearly $4,000, and fish at Celilo, my father will still live niversary of the flooding of the falls promised sustained fisheries and access here and will die here. I too will die might be another signal that we are ap- to new fishing sites. here. Both of us were born at Celilo, preciating our responsibility in part- Layfee Foster, of the Dalles, took and here,’ pointing to the Indian ceme- nership with native people, the need to this famous photograph of Chief tery on a bluff of the village, ‘amid the work with them in terms of first foods, Tommy Thompson and his wife, Flora, rimrock, we will be buried.’ in terms of historic sites, in terms of and their granddaughter, Linda ‘‘Tommy Thompson died 3 years restoring the spirit of partnership in George, whom I met at the ceremony later, and without him, without the those treaties too often that has not at Celilo Falls last month. roaring falls, and with salmon caught been observed. I would like to read from Mr. elsewhere, the First Salmon cere- I appreciate my colleague, Congress- Netboy’s book again, as he eloquently monies held occasionally at the new man WU, bringing this forward. I appre- states the last of the first salmon rites Celilo village built by the Corps of En- ciate the Congress focusing attention that were held in April of 1956. He gineers on the bluff lost their flavor on it today, but I hope it is the begin- writes: and meaning and were eventually aban- ning of a more sustained effort to keep ‘‘On Sunday, April 20, 1956, when the doned.’’ faith with our native people. Dalles Dam was about to be enclosed Today the Dalles Dam employs 150 Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I cannot and the Celilo fishery, dating back to a people, generates enough electricity to enhance or extend the word pictures long forgotten time would be inun- power two cities the size of Portland, given by my colleague from Oregon and dated, I witnessed the last of the first Oregon, helps control run-off in the would, therefore, reserve the balance of salmon rites at Celilo village. The day spring. The power it produces makes no my time.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.017 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3412 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, let me, The Chair recognizes the gentleman Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, let me if I may, inquire of the gentleman from from Arizona. first begin by thanking Mr. GRIJALVA New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) if he has any GENERAL LEAVE for his leadership and for his kind com- additional speakers. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask ments about our work together on this. Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I do not unanimous consent that all Members Let me also thank Mr. PEARCE for his have other speakers and would yield may have 5 legislative days to revise cooperative, bipartisan effort. These back the balance of my time. and extend their remarks and include are the kinds of bills that don’t fill up Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield extraneous material on the bill under the press galleries, but they are cer- back the balance of my time. consideration. tainly important to the folks in our The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there communities throughout the country. question is on the motion offered by objection to the request of the gen- Mr. Speaker, our communities and the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. tleman from Arizona? Nation have a responsibility to be good GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the There was no objection. stewards of our water resources. And rules and agree to the resolution, H. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield that is why I introduced H.R. 609, the Res. 217. myself as much time as I may con- Central Texas Water Recycling Act of The question was taken; and (two- sume. 2007. thirds being in the affirmative) the We support the passage of H.R. 609 This bill will authorize an innovative rules were suspended and the resolu- and commend our colleague, Rep- water recycling program in partnership tion was agreed to. resentative CHET EDWARDS, for his per- with my hometown of Waco, Texas, and A motion to reconsider was laid on sistence and hard work to secure au- several neighboring communities. It the table. thorization for this important project. supports efforts to manage water re- The purpose of this legislation is to f sources efficiently in McLennan Coun- authorize the Secretary of the Interior ty by strategically locating regional CENTRAL TEXAS WATER to participate in the Central Texas satellite treatment plants that will not RECYCLING ACT OF 2007 Water Recycling and Reuse Project. only provide for conservation of our Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move This project would treat and recycle community’s water supply, but by to suspend the rules and pass the bill waste water generated by the City of doing so efficiently, will help reduce (H.R. 609) to amend the Reclamation Waco and six neighboring commu- costs to taxpayers. Wastewater and Groundwater Study nities. Recycling and reuse of this The initial projects under this legis- and Facilities Act to authorize the Sec- water would decrease the strain on lation can provide up to 10 million gal- retary of the Interior to participate in older treatment plants in the area and lons of water per day, reuse water, the Central Texas Water Recycling and help meet future demands, providing thereby reducing the water demand on Reuse Project, and for other purposes. reclaimed water for golf courses, land- Lake Waco. Instead of wasting valuable The Clerk read the title of the bill. scaping, and other industrial uses. drinking water for use in factories and The text of the bill is as follows: The water recycling project identi- on golf courses in the July and August fied in this bill will be eligible for lim- H.R. 609 heat of my district, we will be able to ited financial assistance from the Bu- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- use lower-cost recycled wastewater for resentatives of the United States of America in reau of Reclamation’s title 16 water re- those purposes and save enough drink- Congress assembled, cycling program. Water recycling and ing water to supply 20,000 households in SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. desalination projects are proven tech- central Texas. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Central nologies that can help stretch limited The bottom line is this: Being good Texas Water Recycling Act of 2007’’. water supplies in areas such as Texas. stewards of our water supply, we will SEC. 2. PROJECT AUTHORIZATION. The City of Waco is keenly aware that reduce water costs for businesses, save (a) IN GENERAL.—The Reclamation Waste- additional sources of water will be re- central Texas taxpayers millions of water and Groundwater Study and Facilities quired to meet future water demands dollars, and encourage economic Act (Public Law 102–575; 43 U.S.C. 390h et and should be commended for looking growth in our area. seq.) is amended by inserting after section for sustainable solutions. I want to thank Chairman RAHALL 16ll the following new section: In the 109th Congress, the Sub- and Ranking Member YOUNG for their ‘‘SEC. 16ll. CENTRAL TEXAS WATER RECYCLING committee on Water and Power held a AND REUSE PROJECT. support of this measure; and the sub- hearing on almost identical legislation. committee chairman, Mrs. NAPOLI- ‘‘(a) AUTHORIZATION.—The Secretary, in co- This legislation was subsequently operation with the City of Waco and other TANO, and the ranking subcommittee participating communities in the Central passed by the House under suspension member, Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS, for Texas Water Recycling and Reuse Project is of the rules. their key role on this bill’s passage. I want to express our full support for authorized to participate in the design, plan- This is the kind of bipartisan effort, as this legislation. I offer my congratula- ning, and construction of permanent facili- I mentioned earlier, that shows what ties to reclaim and reuse water in McLennan tions to Congressman EDWARDS for his County, Texas. Congress can do when we work to- leadership. gether on a bipartisan basis. ‘‘(b) COST SHARE.—The Federal share of the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of I also want to thank the mayors, city costs of the project described in subsection my time. (a) shall not exceed 25 percent of the total Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield council, and staff from the cities of cost. myself such time as I may consume. Waco, Lorena, Robinson, Hewitt, ‘‘(c) LIMITATION.—The Secretary shall not This bill authorizes Federal partici- Woodway, Bellmead, and Lacy- provide funds for the operation and mainte- Lakeview for their cooperative efforts nance of the project described in subsection pation in a water reuse project in McLennan County, Texas. As central that brought us here today. (a). Finally, I want to extend special ‘‘(d) SUNSET OF AUTHORITY.—The authority Texas cities experience rapid popu- of the Secretary to carry out any provisions lation growth and increased water de- credit to Waco’s city manager, Larry of this section shall terminate 10 years after mand, these communities are being Groth, a very special friend of mine, for the date of enactment of this section.’’. proactive to better utilize their exist- his extraordinary leadership on this (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of ing water supplies. We have no objec- bill. Without Mr. Groth’s leadership, sections in section 2 of Public Law 102–575 is tion to this well-intended bill. hard work, and professionalism, we amended by inserting after the item relating Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of would not be here today. And as a cit- to section 16ll the following: my time. izen of Waco, I am grateful for his out- ‘‘Sec. 16ll. Central Texas Water Recycling standing service to my hometown. and Reuse Project.’’. b 1300 Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I have no The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I would further requests for time, and I yield ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- like to yield such time as he may con- back the balance of my time. izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- sume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I have tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) EDWARDS), the sponsor of this legisla- no further requests for time, and I each will control 20 minutes. tion. yield back the balance of my time.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.018 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3413 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ‘‘Sec. 16ll. Los Angeles County Water Sup- Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- question is on the motion offered by ply Augmentation Demonstra- fornia. Mr. Speaker, let me begin by the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. tion Project.’’. thanking Mr. GRIJALVA for being so GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- generous with time. And I would also rules and pass the bill, H.R. 609. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- like to thank Natural Resources Com- The question was taken; and (two- izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- mittee Chairman NICK RAHALL and thirds being in the affirmative) the tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) Ranking Member DON YOUNG, as well rules were suspended and the bill was each will control 20 minutes. as Water and Power Subcommittee passed. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Chairwoman GRACE NAPOLITANO, for A motion to reconsider was laid on from Arizona. recognizing the importance of this bill, the table. GENERAL LEAVE H.R. 786, the ‘‘Southern California f Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask Water Augmentation Study.’’ unanimous consent that all Members I would like to especially thank AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- Chairwoman GRACE NAPOLITANO for her LOS ANGELES COUNTY WATER tend and include extraneous material support on this bill and her leadership SUPPLY AUGMENTATION DEM- on the bill under consideration. in moving it through the Natural Re- ONSTRATION PROJECT The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sources Committee. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move objection to the request of the gen- I became interested in this effort be- to suspend the rules and pass the bill tleman from Arizona? cause California and other parts of the (H.R. 786) to amend the Reclamation There was no objection. country need to move forward on two Wastewater and Groundwater Study Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield very important issues. First, we must and Facilities Act to authorize the Sec- myself such time as I may consume. increase our groundwater drinking sup- The purpose of H.R. 786, sponsored by retary of the Interior to participate in plies. We can do this by improving the our colleague from Lakewood, Cali- the Los Angeles County Water Supply safe infiltration of surface water which fornia, LINDA SA´ NCHEZ, is to authorize Augmentation Demonstration Project, seeps into the ground. Second, we must the Secretary of Interior to participate and for other purposes. reduce urban storm-water runoff that in the Los Angeles County Water Sup- The Clerk read the title of the bill. can carry trash and contamination to ply Augmentation Demonstration The text of the bill is as follows: our beaches and oceans. This water H.R. 786 Project. The legislation will authorize Fed- augmentation study addresses both of Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- eral financial assistance for a unique those issues. resentatives of the United States of America in Storm-water currently becomes con- water reuse and conservation project in Congress assembled, taminated by running off rooftops and the Los Angeles area. The initiative SECTION 1. AUTHORIZATION OF LOS ANGELES roads and carrying that pollution into will demonstrate that small-scale COUNTY WATER SUPPLY AUG- our oceans. Our study is assessing ways MENTATION DEMONSTRATION neighborhood projects can be built to to safely absorb that water into the PROJECT. increase local water supplies and re- ground where natural purifying proc- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Reclamation Waste- duce urban runoff pollution. Projects water and Groundwater Study and Facilities esses can take place. This will stem the like this can help residents of southern Act (Public Law 102–575, title XVI; 43 U.S.C. flow of polluted water into the ocean California increase local water sup- 390h et seq.) is amended by adding at the end and safely recharge our groundwater plies, reduce our dependence on im- the following: supplies. Simply put, this project is ported water from northern California ‘‘SEC. 16ll. LOS ANGELES COUNTY WATER SUP- about taking the water that we lose PLY AUGMENTATION DEMONSTRA- and the Colorado River. TION PROJECT. This is an innovative project and a and turning it into water we use. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of the In- good bill that deserves our support. I This study will assess the potential terior, in cooperation with the Los Angeles congratulate my colleague, Congress- of urban storm-water infiltration to and San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council, is augment our water supplies. It will de- woman SA´ NCHEZ, for championing this authorized to participate in the planning, de- legislation. termine the benefits, costs, and risks of sign, construction, and assessment of a infiltration. It will help us understand neighborhood demonstration project to— In the 109th Congress, the Sub- committee on Water and Power held a what conditions we need to make infil- ‘‘(1) demonstrate the potential for infiltra- tration work and assess its potential tion of stormwater runoff to recharge hearing on similar legislation. This groundwater by retrofitting one or more legislation was subsequently passed by for increasing our drinking water sup- sites in the Los Angeles area with features the House under suspension of the ply. At the same time, it will show us designed to reflect state-of-the-art best man- rules. how to reduce water pollution, creating agement practices for water conservation, We strongly support H.R. 786, and I additional environmental and social pollution reduction and treatment, and habi- would like, once again, to thank and benefits. tat restoration; and ´ Mr. Speaker, this bill is designed to ‘‘(2) through predevelopment and commend my friend, LINDA SANCHEZ, for her work on this bill. make southern California more water- postdevelopment monitoring, assess— self-sufficient and less reliant on im- ‘‘(A) the potential new water supply yield Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of based on increased infiltration; and my time. ported water from our neighbors in the ‘‘(B) the value of the new water. Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield central and northern parts of our ‘‘(b) COST SHARING.—The Federal share of myself such time as I may consume. State. the cost of the project described in sub- H.R. 786 authorizes the Secretary of This is a bipartisan effort in which section (a) shall not exceed 25 percent of the the Interior to participate in the de- there is agreement on the merits of the total cost of the project. sign, planning, and construction of a project throughout our government. I ‘‘(c) LIMITATION.—No Federal funds shall be water recharge demonstration project am very pleased that President Bush used for the operation and maintenance of has included funding for the water aug- the project described in subsection (a). For in southern California. To meet the purposes of this subsection, pre- and post-de- needs of future population growth in mentation study in his last four budg- velopment monitoring for not more than 2 this arid region, capturing storm-water ets, including this year. years before and after project installation runoff and recharging groundwater Also, the Bureau of Reclamation has for project assessment purposes shall not be could substantially increase local been extremely supportive of this considered operation and maintenance. water supplies. project. In fact, they helped create it in ‘‘(d) SUNSET OF AUTHORITY.—- The author- I urge my colleagues to support this the year 2000 because they see it as ity of the Secretary to carry out any provi- bill. helping to solve the real problem we sions of this section shall terminate 10 years Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of face in California and other, shall I after the date of the enactment of this sec- say, ‘‘water-challenged’’ areas of the tion.’’. my time. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield country. sections in section 2 of Public Law 102–575 is such time as she may consume to the Again, I would like to thank Chair- amended by inserting after the item relating gentlewoman from California, LINDA man RAHALL and Ranking Member to section 16ll the following: SA´ NCHEZ. YOUNG, as well as the great staff on the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.022 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3414 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 House Resources Committee; and to program authorized by subsection (a) if the removed from the unit. Importantly, thank Representative NAPOLITANO for unit has in place, before the date of the en- the legislation is narrowly written as a her unyielding support of this bill. actment of this Act, a general management demonstration project to apply within In 1907, Theodore Roosevelt said, plan, cultural landscape plan, or other re- a defined list of 24 military parks and sources management plan approved pursuant ‘‘The conservation of natural resources to the National Environmental Policy Act of to prevent any change to existing envi- is the fundamental problem. Unless we 1969 (43 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), that identifies ronmental requirements governing log- solve that problem, it will avail us lit- specific timber for removal for purposes of ging on NPS land. tle to solve all others.’’ With your help, cultural or historic landscape restoration or Representative PEARCE has worked Southern California can make signifi- fuel load reduction. tirelessly on behalf of this legislation cant progress toward improving its (c) USE OF RECEIPTS.—Each unit selected and is to be commended for his efforts. water resources management. to participate in the demonstration program We strongly support the passage of authorized under subsection (a) shall retain H.R. 309, as amended, by the House I urge approval of this legislation. receipts from the sale or disposal of timber Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I have no removed from that unit. Such receipts shall today. further requests for time, and I yield be available for expenditure without further Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of back the balance of my time. appropriation or fiscal year limitation for my time. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I have the following purposes only: Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield no further requests for time, and I (1) Landscape restoration within the unit. myself such time as I may consume. yield back the balance of my time. (2) Interpretive services within the unit. I appreciate the comments by the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (3) Eradication of disease, insects, or gentleman from Arizona (Mr. invasive species within the unit. GRIJALVA). question is on the motion offered by (4) Fuel load reduction within the unit. the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. H.R. 309, introduced by me, would es- SEC. 3. REPORT. tablish an innovative 4-year dem- GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the Two years after the date of enactment of rules and pass the bill, H.R. 786. this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report onstration program in the National The question was taken; and (two- to the House Natural Resources Committee Park Service to improve and expedite thirds being in the affirmative) the and the Senate Committee on Energy and landscape restoration programs within rules were suspended and the bill was Natural Resources that contains the results 24 units of the National Park System passed. of the demonstration program authorized to better preserve and interpret re- A motion to reconsider was laid on under this Act, including— sources associated with American mili- (1) a detailed accounting of the receipts the table. tary history. generated in each unit by the demonstration One of the tenets of the Park Service f program; (2) the expenditure by each unit of those is to preserve the look of national bat- ESTABLISHING DEMONSTRATION receipts; and tlefields as they existed at the time of PROGRAM TO FACILITATE LAND- (3) any resource or other impacts, positive the conflict. Often this involves remov- SCAPE RESTORATION PROGRAMS or negative, on each participating unit. ing trees and other woody debris that WITHIN CERTAIN UNITS OF NA- SEC. 4. SUNSET. encroach on sightlines. Under current TIONAL PARK SYSTEM The authority granted to the Secretary in law, these trees are removed and any section 2 shall expire 4 years after the date funds from their sale are returned to Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move of the enactment of this Act. to suspend the rules and pass the bill the General Treasury. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (H.R. 309) to direct the Secretary of the As a part of this new program, se- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- Interior to establish a demonstration lected parks would be permitted to re- izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- program to facilitate landscape res- tain receipts from any timber sales and tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) toration programs within certain units use those funds on the respective land- each will control 20 minutes. of the National Park System estab- scape restoration programs and inter- The Chair recognizes the gentleman pretive services. While this would not lished by law to preserve and interpret from Arizona. resources associated with American involve a lot of money, every little bit GENERAL LEAVE history, and for other purposes, as helps, especially given the National Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask amended. Park System maintenance backlog. unanimous consent that all Members The Clerk read the title of the bill. This noncontroversial bill was favor- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- The text of the bill is as follows: ably reported last Congress by unani- tend their remarks and include extra- mous consent, and I urge my col- H.R. 309 neous material on the bill under con- leagues to support H.R. 309. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- sideration. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance resentatives of the United States of America in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there of my time. Congress assembled, objection to the request of the gen- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I have SECTION 1. PURPOSE. tleman from Arizona? no further requests for time, and I The purpose of this Act is to establish a There was no objection. demonstration program to facilitate land- yield back the balance of my time. scape restoration programs within those Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield The SPEAKER pro tempore. The units of the National Park System estab- myself such time as I may consume. question is on the motion offered by lished by statute to preserve and interpret Many units of the National Park Sys- the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. resources associated with American military tem were established to conserve U.S. GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the history. military history. All these units have rules and pass the bill, H.R. 309, as SEC. 2. DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM AUTHOR- restoration of their historic landscapes amended. IZED. as an important management goal. The question was taken; and (two- (a) AUTHORIZATION.—The Secretary of the This restoration entails removal of thirds being in the affirmative) the Interior (hereafter in this Act referred to as landscape features, including trees, the ‘‘Secretary’’), acting through the Direc- rules were suspended and the bill, as tor of the National Park Service, shall carry which were not present at the time of amended, was passed. out a demonstration program that provides the relevant historic event. However, A motion to reconsider was laid on that receipts from timber sales shall be re- removal of any natural resources from the table. tained for expenditure within units of the a National Park must be undertaken f National Park System from which the tim- extremely carefully. In addition, many ber is removed as part of an approved plan of these park units report a lack of SOUTHERN NEVADA READINESS for the restoration or protection of park re- funding for such work. CENTER ACT sources or values. H.R. 309, introduced by my colleague Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move (b) PARTICIPATION.—The Secretary shall on the Natural Resources Committee, to suspend the rules and pass the bill permit each of the 24 National Battlefields, National Battlefield Parks, National Mili- Representative STEVE PEARCE, would (H.R. 815) to provide for the conveyance tary Parks, and National Battlefield Sites in create a revenue source for such of certain land in Clark County, Ne- existence on the date of the enactment of projects by allowing individual units to vada, for use by the Nevada National this Act to participate in the demonstration retain proceeds from the sale of timber Guard.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.024 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3415 The Clerk read the title of the bill. Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows: support of H.R. 815 and yield to the au- The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 815 thor of the bill, the distinguished gen- H.R. 865 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tleman from Nevada (Mr. PORTER). Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, the resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, Southern Nevada Readiness Center Act Congress assembled, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. conveys land to the Army National SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Southern Guard for a readiness center that will This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Copper Val- ley Native Allotment Resolution Act of Nevada Readiness Center Act’’. provide Guardsmen with access to fa- SEC. 2. NEVADA NATIONAL GUARD LAND CON- 2007’’. VEYANCE, CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA. cilities, technology, and equipment SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Notwithstanding any other provision of needed to ensure proper training and In this Act: law, Clark County, Nevada, may convey, readiness. (1) ASSOCIATION.—The term ‘‘Association’’ without consideration, to the Nevada Divi- Because the Southern Nevada Na- means the Copper Valley Electric Associa- sion of State Lands for use by the Nevada tional Guard’s force continues to grow, tion. National Guard between 35 and 50 acres of this new facility is crucial. It will bet- (2) NATIVE ALLOTMENT.— land in Clark County, Nevada, as generally ter train and prepare our soldiers on (A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘‘Native allot- depicted on the map entitled ‘‘Southern Ne- the front lines. The center is the first ment’’ means— vada Readiness Center Act’’ and dated Octo- (i) each of the following allotments issued ber 4, 2005. new construction for the Army Na- under the Act of May 17, 1906 (34 Stat. 197, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tional Guard in the Las Vegas valley in chapter 2469): ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- more than 10 years. The facility will (I) A–031653. house communications, engineering (II) A–043380. izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- and medical Guard units. It will in- (III) A–046337. tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) clude a 200-person theater-style audito- (IV) AA–5896. each will control 20 minutes. (V) AA–6014, Parcel B. The Chair recognizes the gentleman rium, distance-learning classrooms, medical examination rooms, a weight (VI) AA–6034. from Arizona. (VII) AA–7059. room, locker rooms, multiple arms GENERAL LEAVE (VIII) AA–7242, Parcel B. Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask vaults, a kitchen, and a maintenance (IX) AA–7336. unanimous consent that all Members bay. Soldiers will be able to prepare (X) AA–7552. have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- both physically and technically for (XI) AA–7553. (XII) AA–7554. tend their remarks and include extra- missions. In total, between 300 and 400 Guardsmen will train at the armory on (XIII) AA–7600. neous material on the bill under con- (XIV) AA–8032; and sideration. a drill weekend. The center will not only help ensure (ii) any allotment for which a patent or The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Certificate of Allotment has been issued objection to the request of the gen- Nevada will be prepared in the event of under the Act of May 17, 1906 (34 Stat. 197, tleman from Arizona? a crisis or a natural disaster, but also chapter 2469) across which the Association There was no objection. would help ensure that Guardsmen are maintains an electric transmission line on Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield fully trained and ready for any contin- the date of enactment of this Act. myself such time as I may consume. gency as directed by the National Com- (B) EXCLUSIONS.—The term ‘‘Native allot- H.R. 815, introduced by the gen- mand Authority. ment’’ does not include any allotment to I commend the National Guard sol- which the Secretary has approved the grant tleman from Nevada, Representative of a right of way or issued a patent or Cer- JON PORTER, states that notwith- diers who volunteer to serve at home and overseas in order to keep our coun- tificate of Allotment that is subject to a standing any other provision of law, right of way held by the Association. Clark County, Nevada, may convey, try safe. It is incumbent upon us to (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ without consideration, between 35 and provide the proper facilities that will means the Secretary of the Interior. 50 acres of land for the use by the Ne- ensure these soldiers are well trained (4) STATE.—The term ‘‘State’’ means the vada National Guard as a Readiness and prepared. State of Alaska. Center. I thank my colleagues on both sides SEC. 3. ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION LINE RIGHTS- The land in question is part of a larg- of the aisle for working in a bipartisan, OF-WAY. bicameral manner in support of this (a) IN GENERAL.—There is granted to the er block of lands conveyed to Clark Association rights-of-way across the Native County under a provision of the Public bill. allotments for an electric transmission line Law 109–263, the Southern Nevada Pub- Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing owned by the Association. lic Lands Management Act of 1998. me to speak on this important legisla- (b) WIDTH.—After considering any informa- These lands comprise part of the Air- tion. tion provided by the Association, allottee, or port Environs Overlay District for Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield any other source that the Secretary deter- McCarran Airport, and Public Law 105– back the balance of my time. mines to be relevant, the Secretary shall determine an accurate legal description of the 263 required that the land be managed Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. rights-of-way, the nature of the rights grant- in accordance with airport noise com- ed, and the widths of the rights-of-way patibility planning agreements. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The granted by subsection (a). Further, the 1998 act specified if land question is on the motion offered by (c) CERTAIN AGREEMENTS.—Notwith- was sold or transferred, it had to be the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. standing any other provision of this Act, this done at fair market value with the pro- GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the Act does not apply to land owned by Ahtna, ceeds distributed pursuant to the act. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 815. Inc. and any prior or current right-of-way H.R. 815 would waive this last require- The question was taken; and (two- agreements that may exist between Ahtna, Inc. and the Copper Valley Electric Associa- ment. Since the proceeds of the land is thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was tion or the State. for an important public purpose, we be- (d) COMPENSATION.— lieve the waiver is appropriate. passed. (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall— A motion to reconsider was laid on 1315 (A) appraise the value of the rights-of-way b the table. granted under subsection (a); Mr. Speaker, I would like to com- f (B) pay to any owner of a Native allotment mend my colleague from Nevada, Rep- or, if the owner is deceased, an heir or assign COPPER VALLEY NATIVE ALLOT- resentative PORTER, for his work on of the owner, compensation for the grant of this legislation. I would note that iden- MENT RESOLUTION ACT OF 2007 a right-of-way over the Native allotment in tical legislation passed the House in Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move an amount determined under paragraph (2); to suspend the rules and pass the bill (C) issue recordable instruments that indi- the 109th Congress. We support the pas- cate the location of the rights-of-way over sage of H.R. 815 and recommend its (H.R. 865) to grant rights-of-way for the Native allotments; adoption by the House today. electric transmission lines over certain (D) provide written notice of the com- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Native allotments in the State of Alas- pensation procedure for the rights-of-way my time. ka, as amended. to—

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:11 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.027 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3416 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 (i) the owner of record for each Native al- is a conflict with land titles subse- (1) the primary contract between PGI and lotment; or quently issued under the Alaska Native the National Park Service is terminated; (ii) if the owner of record is deceased, the Allotment Act. In essence, H.R. 865 re- (2) the amount owed to the subcontractors heir or assign of the owner of record; and solves that conflict by ratifying the ex- is verified; (E) publish in the Federal Register and any (3) all reasonable legal avenues or recourse newspaper of general circulation within the isting rights-of-way across 14 specified have been exhausted by the subcontractors service area of the Association and location Native allotments and providing for to recoup amounts owed directly from PGI; of the relevant allotment— fair market value compensation for the and (i) notice of the compensation procedure landowners. As amended, the bill pro- (4) the subcontractors provide a written established by this subsection; and vides that the compensation, which is statement that payment of the amount (ii) with respect to a Native allotment de- estimated by CBO to be no more than verified in paragraph (2) represents payment scribed in section 2(2)(A)(ii), the location of $150,000, is subject to appropriations. in full by the United States for all work per- the right-of-way, as prepared by the Associa- We have no objection to H.R. 865. formed at the park under the IDIQ with PGI tion and provided to the Secretary, in ac- between fiscal years 2002 and 2003. cordance with any requirements established Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- by the Secretary. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- (2) CALCULATION OF PAYMENTS.— Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- (A) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of calcu- support of H.R. 865. The majority, Mr. lating the amount of compensation required GRIJALVA, has adequately explained tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) under paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall this bill. I thank him for his consider- each will control 20 minutes. determine, with respect to a portion of a Na- ation on behalf of the author, DON The Chair recognizes the gentleman tive allotment encumbered by a right-of- YOUNG. from Arizona. way— Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance GENERAL LEAVE (i) compensation for each right-of-way Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask based on an appraisal conducted in con- of my time. formity with the version of the Uniform Ap- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield unanimous consent that all Members praisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisi- back the balance of my time. have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- tions that is correct as of the date of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tend and include extraneous material compensation proceeding; and question is on the motion offered by on the bill under consideration. (ii) interest calculated based on the section the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there 3116 of title 40, United States Code. GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the objection to the request of the gen- (B) DATE OF VALUATION.—For purposes of rules and pass the bill, H.R. 865, as tleman from Arizona? subparagraph (A), the date of valuation of amended. There was no objection. the acquisition by the Association of each Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, during right-of-way shall be considered to be the The question was taken; and (two- date of enactment of this Act. thirds being in the affirmative) the fiscal years 2002 and 2003, Grand Can- (3) JUDICIAL REVIEW.—Notwithstanding any rules were suspended and the bill, as yon National Park entered into con- other provision of law, judicial review under amended, was passed. struction contracts worth $17 million this subsection shall be limited to a review A motion to reconsider was laid on with a general contractor called Pa- of the determination of the Secretary under the table. cific General, Incorporated, known as paragraph (2) regarding the compensation for f PGI. a right-of-way over a Native allotment. In January 2004, numerous sub- SEC. 4. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. AUTHORIZING PAYMENT FOR contractors employed by PGI notified There are authorized to be appropriated SERVICES RENDERED BY SUB- National Park Service that they were such sums as are necessary to carry out this CONTRACTORS FOR WORK TO BE not receiving payment. After an inves- Act. COMPLETED AT GRAND CANYON tigation, it was discovered that PGI The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- NATIONAL PARK was diverting Federal funds which ant to the rule, the gentleman from Ar- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I move should have gone to the subcontrac- izona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and the gen- to suspend the rules and pass the bill tors. PGI eventually declared bank- tleman from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) (H.R. 1191) to authorize the National ruptcy. each will control 20 minutes. Park Service to pay for services ren- It was further discovered that in a The Chair recognizes the gentleman dered by subcontractors under a Gen- clear violation of Federal policies, the from Arizona. eral Services Administration Indefinite park had failed to require PGI to post GENERAL LEAVE Deliver/Indefinite Quantity Contract a surety bond as a condition of the con- Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I ask issued for work to be completed at the tract. The agency is now prohibited unanimous consent that all Members Grand Canyon National Park, as from paying the subcontractors di- may have 5 legislative days to revise amended. rectly because the funds appropriated and extend and include extraneous ma- The Clerk read the title of the bill. for those contracts have already been terial on the bill under consideration. The text of the bill is as follows: paid to PGI. Overall, the subcontrac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there H.R. 1191 tors are owed about $1.3 million. H.R. objection to the request of the gen- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- 1191 authorizes the Secretary to use tleman from Arizona? resentatives of the United States of America in $1.3 million in available funds from There was no objection. Congress assembled, Grand Canyon National Park to pay Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I yield SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS. the subcontractors. Applicants for the myself such time as I may consume. As used in this Act, the following defini- funds would have to verify the amount H.R. 865, introduced by the gen- tions apply: they are owed, demonstrate that they tleman from Alaska, Representative (1) IDIQ.—The term ‘‘IDIQ’’ means an In- have exhausted all reasonable legal definite Deliver/Indefinite Quantity con- DON YOUNG, would resolve a long- avenues to recoup amounts owed to tract. standing conflict between Alaska Na- (2) PARK.—The term ‘‘park’’ means Grand them by PGI, and provide written tive land titles and utility rights-of- Canyon National Park. statements that the amount they are way in Alaska. This legislation is in re- (3) PGI.—The term ‘‘PGI’’ means Pacific seeking represents payment in full. sponse to a September 2004 GAO report General, Inc. Mr. Speaker, this is an imperfect so- entitled, ‘‘Alaska Native Allotments: (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ lution to a difficult problem. However, Conflicts With Utility Rights-of-Way means the Secretary of the Interior, acting these small business owners who pro- Have Not Been Resolved Through Ex- through the Director of the National Park vided quality services to the Federal isting Remedies.’’ Service. Government in good faith should not Although the Copper Valley Electric SEC. 2. AUTHORIZATION. have to wait any longer to receive pay- Association, a rural non-profit elec- The Secretary is authorized, subject to the ment. appropriation of such funds as may be nec- trical cooperative, holds rights-of-way essary, to pay the amount owed to the sub- My colleague from Arizona, Rep- granted in the 1950s and 1960s, and built contractors of PGI for work performed at the resentative RENZI, is to be commended electric lines prior to the filing of the park under an IDIQ with PGI between fiscal for his efforts on behalf of these small Alaska Native allotment claims, there years 2002 and 2003, provided that— business people. Similar legislation

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.010 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3417 was approved by the House in the 109th the contractor; $1.3 million never made Sec. 5. Individuals held harmless on wrong- Congress, and we urge its passage its way down to these subcontractors. ful levy, etc., on individual re- today. The second category is composed of tirement plan. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of subcontractors who performed work on Sec. 6. Clarification of IRS unclaimed refund authority. my time. various projects where the National Sec. 7. Prohibition on IRS debt indicators Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to Park Service failed to pay PGI. The for predatory refund anticipa- thank the majority, Mr. GRIJALVA, for National Park Service has been unable tion loans. his support of H.R. 1191, and I would to pay these contractors who per- Sec. 8. Prohibition on misuse of Department yield such time as he may consume to formed the work at Grand Canyon be- of the Treasury names and sym- the distinguished author of the bill, the cause Federal law prohibits payments bols. gentleman from Arizona (Mr. RENZI), directly to subcontractors due to a Sec. 9. EITC outreach. who has worked tirelessly for 4 years lack of direct contractual relationship Sec. 10. Modification of rules pertaining to on this bill. FIRPTA nonforeign affidavits. between the parties. Sec. 11. Disclosure of prisoner return infor- Mr. RENZI. Mr. Speaker, I want to This bill today that Mr. GRIJALVA mation to Federal Bureau of thank my chairman and colleague from has championed, and Mr. PEARCE, fixes Prisons. Arizona (Mr. GRIJALVA) and my neigh- this grave inequity. Sec. 12. Increase in penalty for bad checks bor from New Mexico (Mr. PEARCE) for I thank you so very much for your and money orders. their assistance and support in helping leadership, Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. SEC. 2. FAMILY BUSINESS TAX SIMPLIFICATION. us find a solution finally today. PEARCE. I appreciate your service, and (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 761 (defining It has been 4 years in the making. I understanding these are small business terms for purposes of partnerships) is amend- thank you, Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. men and women, Arizona, New Mexico ed by redesignating subsection (f) as sub- PEARCE, for being a part of pushing this and Utah, that will benefit from your section (g) and by inserting after subsection (e) the following new subsection: across the finish line. leadership on this bill. Our intention today is to provide leg- ‘‘(f) QUALIFIED JOINT VENTURE.— Mr. PEARCE. Mr. Speaker, I would ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of a qualified islation to fix a problem that affects yield back the balance of my time. joint venture conducted by a husband and almost 40 small business men and Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, again wife who file a joint return for the taxable women throughout Arizona, Utah, New let me commend the gentleman from year, for purposes of this title— Mexico and the Southwest who are dev- Arizona (Mr. RENZI) for this legisla- ‘‘(A) such joint venture shall not be treat- astated by this unfortunate contract tion. ed as a partnership, mismanagement that the National Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ‘‘(B) all items of income, gain, loss, deduction, and credit shall be divided between the Park Service and Pacific General, Inc. of my time. were involved in. spouses in accordance with their respective The SPEAKER pro tempore. The interests in the venture, and I know, Mr. PEARCE, you remember question is on the motion offered by ‘‘(C) each spouse shall take into account from last Congress, in helping us finish the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. such spouse’s respective share of such items on this, that many of these businesses GRIJALVA) that the House suspend the as if they were attributable to a trade or are bankrupt today. Many of their sons rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1191, as business conducted by such spouse as a sole and daughters aren’t able to go to col- amended. proprietor. lege because the Federal Government The question was taken; and (two- ‘‘(2) QUALIFIED JOINT VENTURE.—For pur- owes them money for work that they poses of paragraph (1), the term ‘qualified thirds being in the affirmative) the joint venture’ means any joint venture in- performed in the Grand Canyon. So rules were suspended and the bill, as today, we find a way to fix that with a volving the conduct of a trade or business amended, was passed. if— technical correction in order for these A motion to reconsider was laid on ‘‘(A) the only members of such joint ven- subcontractors to get paid. the table. ture are a husband and wife, Mike Richardson, who is the owner of f ‘‘(B) both spouses materially participate Southwest Water Works, located in (within the meaning of section 469(h) with- Phoenix, Arizona, came before Con- b 1330 out regard to paragraph (5) thereof) in such gress, before your subcommittee last TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT OF trade or business, and ‘‘(C) both spouses elect the application of session. He testified, and he was able to 2007 bring this problem to the forefront. His this subsection.’’. (b) NET EARNINGS FROM SELF-EMPLOY- dedicated assistance to bringing this Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass MENT.— matter before Congress should be com- (1) Subsection (a) of section 1402 (defining mended. the bill (H.R. 1677) to amend the Inter- nal Revenue Code of 1986 to enhance net earnings from self-employment) is After this time, the Washington Con- amended by striking ‘‘, and’’ at the end of tracting and Procurement Office of the taxpayer protections and outreach, as paragraph (15) and inserting a semicolon, by National Park Service performed an amended. striking the period at the end of paragraph acquisition management review. In The Clerk read the title of the bill. (16) and inserting ‘‘; and’’, and by inserting this review, the National Park Service The text of the bill is as follows: after paragraph (16) the following new para- H.R. 1677 graph: discovered that the park had failed to ‘‘(17) notwithstanding the preceding provi- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ensure that PGI obtained the proper sions of this subsection, each spouse’s share resentatives of the United States of America in payments and performance bonds re- of income or loss from a qualified joint ven- Congress assembled, quired by the National Park Service ture shall be taken into account as provided under the Miller Act. Then on Feb- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; ETC. in section 761(f) in determining net earnings ruary 6, 2004, the National Park Serv- (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as from self-employment of such spouse.’’. the ‘‘Taxpayer Protection Act of 2007’’. ice suspended further payments to PGI, (2) Subsection (a) of section 211 of the So- (b) AMENDMENT OF 1986 CODE.—Except as issued a suspension notice, and ceased cial Security Act (defining net earnings from otherwise expressly provided, whenever in self-employment) is amended by striking activities with the contractor. this Act an amendment or repeal is ex- ‘‘and’’ at the end of paragraph (14), by strik- Unfortunately, as stated, the sub- pressed in terms of an amendment to, or re- ing the period at the end of paragraph (15) contractors were not paid for the work peal of, a section or other provision, the ref- and inserting ‘‘; and’’, and by inserting after that they provided to the Federal Gov- erence shall be considered to be made to a paragraph (15) the following new paragraph: ernment. They fall into two categories. section or other provision of the Internal ‘‘(16) Notwithstanding the preceding provi- The first category consists of sub- Revenue Code of 1986. sions of this subsection, each spouse’s share contractors that performed work on (c) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- of income or loss from a qualified joint ven- tents for this Act is as follows: various projects where the National ture shall be taken into account as provided Park Service had already paid PGI for Sec. 1. Short title; etc. in section 761(f) of the Internal Revenue Code Sec. 2. Family business tax simplification. of 1986 in determining net earnings from self- their work. Up to $1.3 million PGI did Sec. 3. Taxpayer notification of suspected employment of such spouse.’’. not pay to subcontractors. I think, as identity theft. (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments Congressman GRIJALVA talked about, Sec. 4. Extension of time for return of prop- made by this section shall apply to taxable there were $17 million paid overall to erty for wrongful levy. years beginning after December 31, 2006.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.033 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3418 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007

SEC. 3. TAXPAYER NOTIFICATION OF SUSPECTED ‘‘(B) to the extent the deposit includes in- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments IDENTITY THEFT. terest paid under subsection (c), such inter- made by this section shall apply with respect (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 77 (relating to est shall not be includible in gross income, to violations occurring after the date of the miscellaneous provisions) is amended by add- and enactment of this Act. ing at the end the following new section: ‘‘(C) such deposit shall not be taken into SEC. 9. EITC OUTREACH. ‘‘SEC. 7529. NOTIFICATION OF SUSPECTED IDEN- account under section 408(d)(3)(B). (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 32 (relating to TITY THEFT. For purposes of subparagraph (B), an amount earned income) is amended by adding at the ‘‘If, in the course of an investigation under shall be treated as interest only to the ex- end the following new subsection: section 7206 (relating to fraud and false tent that the amount deposited exceeds the ‘‘(n) NOTIFICATION OF POTENTIAL ELIGI- BILITY FOR CREDIT AND REFUND.— statements) or 7207 (relating to fraudulent amount of the levy. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—To the extent possible returns, statements, or other documents), ‘‘(3) REFUND, ETC., OF INCOME TAX ON and on an annual basis, the Secretary shall the Secretary determines that there was or LEVY.—If any amount is includible in gross provide to each taxpayer who— may have been an unauthorized use of the income for a taxable year by reason of a levy ‘‘(A) for any preceding taxable year for identity of the taxpayer or dependents, the referred to in paragraph (1) and any portion which credit or refund is not precluded by Secretary shall— of such amount is treated as a rollover under section 6511, and ‘‘(1) as soon as practicable and without paragraph (2), any tax imposed by chapter 1 ‘‘(B) did not claim the credit under sub- jeopardizing such investigation, notify the on such portion shall not be assessed, and if section (a) but may be allowed such credit taxpayer of such determination, and assessed shall be abated, and if collected for any such taxable year based on return or ‘‘(2) if any person is criminally charged by shall be credited or refunded as an overpay- return information (as defined in section indictment or information under either of ment made on the due date for filing the re- 6103(b)) available to the Secretary, such sections, notify such taxpayer as soon turn of tax for such taxable year. as practicable of such charge.’’. ‘‘(4) INTEREST.—Notwithstanding sub- notice that such taxpayer may be eligible to (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of section (d), interest shall be allowed under claim such credit and a refund for such tax- sections for chapter 77 is amended by adding subsection (c) in a case in which the Sec- able year. at the end the following new item: retary makes a determination described in ‘‘(2) NOTICE.—Notice provided under para- ‘‘Sec. 7529. Notification of suspected iden- subsection (d)(2)(A) with respect to a levy graph (1) shall be in writing and sent to the tity theft.’’. upon an individual retirement plan.’’. last known address of the taxpayer.’’. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment made by this section shall take effect on the made by this section shall apply to deter- made by this section shall apply to amounts date of the enactment of this Act. minations made after the date of the enact- paid under subsections (b), (c), and (d)(2)(A) ment of this Act. of section 6343 of the Internal Revenue Code SEC. 10. MODIFICATION OF RULES PERTAINING of 1986 after the date of the enactment of TO FIRPTA NONFOREIGN AFFIDA- SEC. 4. EXTENSION OF TIME FOR RETURN OF VITS. this Act. PROPERTY FOR WRONGFUL LEVY. (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (b) of section (a) EXTENSION OF TIME FOR RETURN OF SEC. 6. CLARIFICATION OF IRS UNCLAIMED RE- 1445 (relating to exemptions) is amended by PROPERTY SUBJECT TO LEVY.—Subsection (b) FUND AUTHORITY. adding at the end the following: of section 6343 (relating to return of prop- Section 6103(m)(1) (relating to tax refunds) ‘‘(9) ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURE FOR FUR- erty) is amended by striking ‘‘9 months’’ and is amended by inserting ‘‘, and through any NISHING NONFOREIGN AFFIDAVIT.—For pur- inserting ‘‘2 years’’. other means of mass communication,’’ after poses of paragraphs (2) and (7)— (b) PERIOD OF LIMITATION ON SUITS.—Sub- ‘‘media’’. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (2) shall be section (c) of section 6532 (relating to suits SEC. 7. PROHIBITION ON IRS DEBT INDICATORS treated as applying to a transaction if, in by persons other than taxpayers) is amend- FOR PREDATORY REFUND ANTICIPA- connection with a disposition of a United ed— TION LOANS. States real property interest— (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ‘‘9 months’’ (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (f) of section ‘‘(i) the affidavit specified in paragraph (2) and inserting ‘‘2 years’’, and 6011 (relating to promotion of electronic fil- is furnished to a qualified substitute, and (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ‘‘9-month’’ ing) is amended by adding at the end the fol- ‘‘(ii) the qualified substitute furnishes a and inserting ‘‘2-year’’. lowing new paragraph: statement to the transferee stating, under (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘(3) PROHIBITION ON IRS DEBT INDICATORS penalty of perjury, that the qualified sub- made by this section shall apply to— FOR PREDATORY REFUND ANTICIPATION stitute has such affidavit in his possession. (1) levies made after the date of the enact- LOANS.— ‘‘(B) REGULATIONS.—The Secretary shall ment of this Act, and ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In carrying out any pro- prescribe such regulations as may be nec- (2) levies made on or before such date if the gram under this subsection, the Secretary essary or appropriate to carry out this para- 9-month period has not expired under section shall not provide a debt indicator to any per- graph.’’. 6343(b) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 son with respect to any refund anticipation (b) QUALIFIED SUBSTITUTE.—Subsection (f) (without regard to this section) as of such loan if the Secretary determines that the of section 1445 (relating to definitions) is date. business practices of such person involve re- amended by adding at the end the following SEC. 5. INDIVIDUALS HELD HARMLESS ON fund anticipation loans and related charges new paragraph: WRONGFUL LEVY, ETC., ON INDI- and fees that are predatory. ‘‘(6) QUALIFIED SUBSTITUTE.—The term VIDUAL RETIREMENT PLAN. ‘‘(B) REFUND ANTICIPATION LOAN.—For pur- ‘qualified substitute’ means, with respect to (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 6343 (relating to poses of this paragraph, the term ‘refund an- a disposition of a United States real property authority to release levy and return prop- ticipation loan’ means a loan of money or of interest— erty) is amended by adding at the end the any other thing of value to a taxpayer se- ‘‘(A) the person (including any attorney or following new subsection: cured by the taxpayer’s anticipated receipt title company) responsible for closing the ‘‘(f) INDIVIDUALS HELD HARMLESS ON of a Federal tax refund. transaction, other than the transferor’s WRONGFUL LEVY, ETC. ON INDIVIDUAL RETIRE- ‘‘(C) IRS DEBT INDICATOR.—For purposes of agent, and MENT PLAN.— this paragraph, the term ‘debt indicator’ ‘‘(B) the transferee’s agent.’’. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If the Secretary deter- means a notification provided through a tax (c) EXEMPTION NOT TO APPLY IF KNOWLEDGE mines that an individual retirement plan has return’s acknowledgment file that a refund OR NOTICE THAT AFFIDAVIT OR STATEMENT IS been levied upon in a case to which sub- will be offset to repay debts for delinquent FALSE.— section (b) or (d)(2)(A) applies, an amount Federal or State taxes, student loans, child (1) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (7) of section equal to the sum of— support, or other Federal agency debt.’’. 1445(b) (relating to special rules for para- ‘‘(A) the amount of money returned by the (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment graphs (2) and (3)) is amended to read as fol- Secretary on account of such levy, and made by this section shall apply to deter- lows: ‘‘(B) interest paid under subsection (c) on minations after the date of the enactment of ‘‘(7) SPECIAL RULES FOR PARAGRAPHS (2), (3), such amount of money, this Act. AND (9).—Paragraph (2), (3), or (9) (as the case may be deposited into such individual retire- SEC. 8. PROHIBITION ON MISUSE OF DEPART- may be) shall not apply to any disposition— ment plan or any other individual retire- MENT OF THE TREASURY NAMES ‘‘(A) if— ment plan (other than an endowment con- AND SYMBOLS. ‘‘(i) the transferee or qualified substitute tract) to which a rollover from the plan lev- (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (a) of section has actual knowledge that the affidavit re- ied upon is permitted. 333 of title 31, United States Code, is amend- ferred to in such paragraph, or the statement ‘‘(2) TREATMENT AS ROLLOVER.—If amounts ed by inserting ‘‘internet domain address,’’ referred to in paragraph (9)(A)(ii), is false, or are deposited into an individual retirement after ‘‘solicitation,’’ both places it appears. ‘‘(ii) the transferee or qualified substitute plan under paragraph (1) not later than the (b) PENALTY FOR MISUSE BY ELECTRONIC receives a notice (as described in subsection 60th day after the date on which the indi- MEANS.—Subsections (c)(2) and (d)(1) of sec- (d)) from a transferor’s agent, transferee’s vidual receives the amounts under paragraph tion 333 of such Code are each amended by agent, or qualified substitute that such affi- (1)— inserting ‘‘or any other mass communica- davit or statement is false, or ‘‘(A) such deposit shall be treated as a roll- tions by electronic means,’’ after ‘‘tele- ‘‘(B) if the Secretary by regulations re- over described in section 408(d)(3)(A)(i), cast,’’. quires the transferee or qualified substitute

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.012 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3419 to furnish a copy of such affidavit or state- any information obtained under subpara- first step in standing up, really stand- ment to the Secretary and the transferee or graph (A) to any person other than an officer ing up for the American taxpayer. It is qualified substitute fails to furnish a copy of or employee of such Bureau. a shame that people use fraudulent tax such affidavit or statement to the Secretary ‘‘(C) RESTRICTION ON USE OF DISCLOSED IN- schemes to steal Social Security num- at such time and in such manner as required FORMATION.—Return information received by such regulations.’’. under this paragraph shall be used only for bers and financial information from (2) LIABILITY.— purposes of and to the extent necessary in Americans. (A) NOTICE.—Paragraph (1) of section taking administrative action to prevent the This legislation protects taxpayers 1445(d) (relating to notice of false affidavit; filing of false and fraudulent returns, includ- from misleading Web sites and identity foreign corporations) is amended to read as ing administrative actions to address pos- theft. H.R. 1677 provides higher pen- follows: sible violations of administrative rules and alties for persons who use either Web ‘‘(1) NOTICE OF FALSE AFFIDAVIT; FOREIGN regulations of the prison facility. site names that may be confused with CORPORATIONS.—If— ‘‘(D) ANNUAL REPORT.—In each of the cal- the official IRS Web site or mass e- ‘‘(A) the transferor furnishes the transferee endar years 2007 through 2010, the Secretary or qualified substitute an affidavit described shall submit to Congress and make publicly mails that appear to be from the IRS. in paragraph (2) of subsection (b) or a domes- available a report on the filing of false and This bill requires the IRS to notify you tic corporation furnishes the transferee an fraudulent returns by individuals incarcer- if your identity is stolen in a tax scam. affidavit described in paragraph (3) of sub- ated in Federal and State prisons. Such re- You should not become more vulner- section (b), and port shall include statistics on the number of able for being a responsible citizen. ‘‘(B) in the case of— false and fraudulent returns associated with The Taxpayer Protection Act prohibits ‘‘(i) any transferor’s agent— each Federal and State prison. the IRS from providing certain infor- ‘‘(I) such agent has actual knowledge that ‘‘(E) TERMINATION.—No disclosure may be mation to businesses that the IRS be- such affidavit is false, or made under this paragraph after December lieves make predatory loans based on ‘‘(II) in the case of an affidavit described in 31, 2010.’’. subsection (b)(2) furnished by a corporation, (b) RECORDKEEPING.—Paragraph (4) of sec- tax refunds. These short-term loans such corporation is a foreign corporation, or tion 6103(p) is amended by striking ‘‘(k)(8)’’ often charge interest rates sometimes ‘‘(ii) any transferee’s agent or qualified both places it appears and inserting ‘‘(k)(8) above 100 percent that victimize low- substitute, such agent or substitute has ac- or (10)’’. income workers. tual knowledge that such affidavit is false, (c) EVALUATION BY TREASURY INSPECTOR H.R. 1677 will also assist with efforts such agent or qualified substitute shall so GENERAL FOR TAX ADMINISTRATION.—Para- to reach millions of working Ameri- notify the transferee at such time and in graph (3) of section 7803(d) is amended by cans who are eligible to claim the such manner as the Secretary shall require striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subparagraph earned income tax credit. These tax- by regulations.’’. (A), by striking the period at the end of subparagraph (B) and inserting ‘‘; and’’, and by payers often do not take advantage of (B) FAILURE TO FURNISH NOTICE.—Para- the EITC. They have a right to know of graph (2) of section 1445(d) (relating to fail- adding at the end the following new subpara- ure to furnish notice) is amended to read as graph: all benefits available to them. Under follows: ‘‘(C) not later than December 31, 2009, sub- this bill, the IRS will expand its cur- ‘‘(2) FAILURE TO FURNISH NOTICE.— mit a written report to Congress on the im- rent outreach program to help more ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—If any transferor’s plementation of section 6103(k)(10).’’. low-income Americans receive this tax agent, transferee’s agent, or qualified sub- (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.— credit, a credit which lifts millions of stitute is required by paragraph (1) to fur- (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in families out of poverty each year. nish notice, but fails to furnish such notice paragraph (2), the amendments made by this This bipartisan legislation moves us at such time or times and in such manner as section shall apply to disclosures made after December 31, 2007. in the right direction to make tax may be required by regulations, such agent issues simpler and clearer for the aver- or substitute shall have the same duty to de- (2) ANNUAL REPORT.—Section 6103(k)(10)(D) duct and withhold that the transferee would of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (relat- age person. We must fight poverty, have had if such agent or substitute had ing to annual reports), as added by this sec- fight fraud, and provide these basic complied with paragraph (1). tion, shall apply to reports submitted after protections for all Americans. ‘‘(B) LIABILITY LIMITED TO AMOUNT OF COM- the date of the enactment of this Act. Mr. Speaker, I fully support the Tax- PENSATION.—An agent’s or substitute’s liabil- SEC. 12. INCREASE IN PENALTY FOR BAD CHECKS payer Protection Act, and I urge all of ity under subparagraph (A) shall be limited AND MONEY ORDERS. my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to the amount of compensation the agent or (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 6657 (relating to to vote ‘‘yes’’ for H.R. 1677. substitute derives from the transaction.’’. bad checks) is amended— (1) by striking ‘‘$750’’ and inserting Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of (C) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—The heading my time. for section 1445(d) is amended by striking ‘‘$1,250’’, and Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I yield ‘‘OR TRANSFEREE’S AGENTS’’ and inserting ‘‘, (2) by striking ‘‘$15’’ and inserting ‘‘$25’’. TRANSFEREE’S AGENTS, OR QUALIFIED SUB- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments myself such time as I may consume. STITUTES’’. made by this section shall apply to checks or Mr. Speaker, I strongly support the (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments money orders received after the date of the Taxpayer Protection Act. This legisla- made by this section shall apply to disposi- enactment of this Act. tion is a package of commonsense re- tions of United States real property interests The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- forms that passed the Ways and Means after the date of the enactment of this Act. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Committee by a voice vote with broad SEC. 11. DISCLOSURE OF PRISONER RETURN IN- Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) and the gentleman bipartisan support, and I want to take FORMATION TO FEDERAL BUREAU OF PRISONS. from Minnesota (Mr. RAMSTAD) each this opportunity to thank Chairman (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (k) of section will control 20 minutes. RANGEL of the full Ways and Means 6103 (relating to disclosure of certain return The Chair recognizes the gentleman Committee, as well as Chairman LEWIS, and return information for tax administra- from Georgia. the chairman of our Oversight Sub- tion purposes) is amended by adding at the Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, committee, for working in a bipartisan, end the following new paragraph: I yield myself such time as I may con- pragmatic and commonsense way on ‘‘(10) DISCLOSURE OF CERTAIN RETURN INFOR- sume. this legislation, and for working in a MATION OF PRISONERS TO FEDERAL BUREAU OF I rise in strong support of H.R. 1677 bipartisan way thus far generally in PRISONS.— and am pleased to be a lead co-sponsor the committee. I also want to thank ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Under such procedures as the Secretary may prescribe, the Sec- of this bill with Chairman RANGEL. Ranking Member MCCRERY for his retary may disclose to the head of the Fed- Today is the due date for Americans leadership. eral Bureau of Prisons any return informa- to file their tax returns. On this day, it Mr. Speaker, true to its name, this tion with respect to individuals incarcerated is wise for the House to consider a bill bill will protect taxpayers and expand in Federal prison whom the Secretary has to increase taxpayer protection and ex- their rights. One important reform will determined may have filed or facilitated the pand outreach efforts to millions of prevent Internet domains from using filing of a false return to the extent that the Americans. the Treasury Department’s name or Secretary determines that such disclosure is Mr. Speaker, this is an important symbol, which is usually done to trick necessary to permit effective Federal tax administration. bill; this is a timely bill. The Taxpayer people into giving out sensitive per- ‘‘(B) RESTRICTION ON REDISCLOSURE.—Not- Protection Act is a result of a hearing sonal or financial information. Clearly, withstanding subsection (n), the head of the held by the Oversight Subcommittee this should not be allowed and should Federal Bureau of Prisons may not disclose that I chair. H.R. 1677 is an important be outlawed, as this bill provides. It

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.012 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3420 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 prohibits phishing, and by that I mean While the IRS is able to detect some and that is a name appropriately re- phishing with a ‘‘P-H,’’ not the kind inmate tax fraud, far too much of it served reflecting the Department of that Minnesota is famous for. We are falls through the cracks. And, unfortu- Treasury of this country, and nobody referring here to mass e-mail commu- nately, the IRS is prohibited by cur- should be allowed to make a plug nick- nications falsely claiming to be from rent law from sharing information with el on it. the IRS that can lead to identity theft prison officials that would allow those Here is some body of information and have victimized too many Ameri- officials to punish and stop this fraud. showing just how lucrative it might be cans. My amendment, and I appreciate the for those who want to prey upon the The bill also requires the IRS to no- chairman’s support of this amendment, public using Federal names. There is a tify taxpayers when there is an unau- my amendment would allow the IRS to domain site called IRS.com, and incon- thorized use of the taxpayer’s identity. disclose information to Federal prison ceivably to me, they rang the bell as This will help taxpayers take steps to officials to help them stop the tax some prized business concern in the clear their names quickly if and when fraud that is occurring right under American Stock Exchange this morn- their identity is stolen. their noses within the walls of Federal ing. Well, I think a business that preys Another commonsense provision of prisons. I hope in time this common- upon the public with misleading do- this bill allows the IRS to return funds sense provision can also be extended to main names is no business you want to directly to a taxpayer’s retirement ac- include State prisons. celebrate in ringing the bell of a great count if the IRS improperly levied Mr. Speaker, it is truly fitting that stock exchange. fines from that account. in a bill entitled the Taxpayer Protec- In fact, public reports, as reported in One provision, Mr. Speaker, that re- tion Act we protect honest taxpayers the New York Times today, show that ceived considerable attention in the from such blatant, outrageous fraud their revenues jumped from $17.5 in committee deals with refund anticipa- that is being committed by some pris- 2005 to $25.6 million after IRS.com paid tion loans. I mentioned in the com- on inmates. $12.9 million for that domain name. I mittee that while I certainly under- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to have pulled up IRS.com. Some would stand the motivation behind the provi- protect taxpayers and support this leg- say there is clear disclosure; this is not sion and the belief that the IRS should islation. a public site. IRS.com has IRS. It has not be a facilitator for predatory loans, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of tax information, and in little tiny, I am concerned because the bill does my time. flyspeck language it has the disclosure. not define ‘‘predatory’’; but I trust, Mr. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, It is deliberately built to deceive, and Speaker, that will be clarified in the I thank my friend, my colleague, the in fact one survey showed that 40 per- conference. ranking member, for all of his help and cent of those accessing the site I also hope we are not inadvertently support in bringing this legislation be- thought it was a Federal site. And even making this problem worse by denying fore us today. after seeing it, one-third thought it lenders information on ‘‘debt indica- GENERAL LEAVE was a Federal site. But they use this tors’’ so that the provision increases Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, site to market information to tax- the risk that a lender will not be reim- I ask unanimous consent to give Mem- payers. bursed by the taxpayer’s refund. This bers 5 legislative days to revise and ex- Just to conclude, the business plan of could cause lenders to increase fees and tend their remarks on the bill, H.R. these enterprises to get people to the interest rates even further, making 1677. site, they then have other services of- taxpayers pay even more for early ac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there fered on the site. The domain holder, cess to their refunds. While I am not objection to the request of the gen- IRS.com, is paid for each link accessed opposed to the provision, this should be tleman from Georgia? by a member of the public. Some of the addressed in the conference. There was no objection. things sold on that site represent very I strongly support another provision Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, low value: refund anticipation loans or in the bill which would encourage the I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman expensive tax preparation services. IRS to do more to ensure that tax- from North Dakota (Mr. POMEROY), a This is a fraud on the public, and we payers entitled to receive earned in- member of the committee. ought to put an end to it. come credit refunds actually receive Mr. POMEROY. Mr. Speaker, I want I also appreciate what we are doing, them. to commend my friend, the chairman turning up the heat on these refund an- Mr. Speaker, as we all know, the of the Oversight Subcommittee, the ticipation loans, or RALs. To me, they earned income credit is one of our most former chairman, now ranking member represent an exceedingly poor value to effective antipoverty tools for working of the Oversight Subcommittee, for the American public. In fact, such a families. This provision certainly de- bringing this bipartisan bill to the poor value that I can’t believe people serves our strong support. floor. are accessing them if they knew the Mr. Speaker, I am also very pleased There are a couple of features I wish facts and knew the costs. The commis- that the committee adopted my to speak to: one, we prohibit use of sioner has identified some of the prac- amendment to prevent tax fraud by misleading Internet names. I want to tices as predatory lending in testimony prison inmates. This amendment is show you why I think that is impor- to the committee. I like giving the based on legislation that Chairman tant. Treasury Department authority to deal LEWIS and I introduced in the last Con- This is Departmentofthetreasury with people engaged in predatory lend- gress in response to a hearing we held .com. You pull it up and it looks like ing practices. I urge passage of the bill. in 2005. This hearing revealed massive an official Web page of the Federal tax fraud going on within the walls of Government. However, the second page our Nation’s prisons. In fact, the IRS on this same domain name shows b 1345 testified that 15 percent of all tax fraud Departmentofthetreasury.com is for Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I re- in the United States is committed by sale. Basically, departmentofthe serve the balance of my time. prison inmates while in prison. Tax treasury.gov is the protected govern- Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, fraud in any form is obviously unac- ment name, and dot-com is a private I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman ceptable and illegal; but it is particu- name that preys upon the public be- from Pennsylvania (Mr. CARNEY). larly outrageous and egregious when it lieving they are communicating with Mr. CARNEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank is committed by prison inmates who the Federal Government, and they are Mr. LEWIS for his leadership on this are supposed to be paying their debt to not. very important bill that we are dis- society, not bilking taxpayers. Now, I think we ought to take some cussing today. For example, we heard testimony, exception to the marketing I rise today in support of the Tax- Mr. Speaker, from one inmate who had ‘‘Departmentofthetreasury.com is for payer Protection Act of 2007. I have swindled taxpayers to the tune of $3.5 sale.’’ That is a public name. It is spent the last 2 weeks in northeast and million in false tax return claims, and owned by the American people. You central Pennsylvania hearing from this was not an isolated incident. can’t sell something you don’t own, families in my district about matters

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:37 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.036 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3421 that concern them, and one thing was The result: Tax revenues are up 35 per- trict who are eligible, but do not seek consistent. Our middle-class families cent and deficits are much lower than this credit, thereby missing out on an deserve a tax cut and tax protection. CBO anticipated. estimated $54 million in revenue, It is time to start protecting our tax- Mr. Speaker, as we observe tax day, money these people need for everyday payers, Mr. Speaker. This bipartisan to truly protect taxpayers, Congress living and money that can be turned legislation will do just that. This legis- should talk about ways to make the back into our communities. lation requires the IRS to notify tax- tax relief we have permanent. Regret- During both the oversight hearing on payers if there has been an unauthor- tably, the majority party and its budg- EITC and, later, the full committee ized use of their identity. This is a seri- et anticipate the opposite. hearing with IRS Commissioner ous issue, and the IRS must be actively Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Everson, I highlighted the need for the contacting those individuals who may I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from IRS to work with those who qualify for have fallen victim to identity theft. California (Mr. MCNERNEY). the EITC to make the process of restat- This bill protects those who would Mr. MCNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise ing past returns easier. This bill does receive a tax break, also. It requires today in strong support of the Tax- that. the IRS to notify those who would be payer Protection Act of 2007. Additionally, during private and, eligible for a tax break. For example, it I would like to commend Chairman later, under committee questioning, I requires the IRS to conduct additional RANGEL and Ranking Member asked Commissioner Everson about earned income tax credit outreach, in- MCCRERY for bringing this bill to the ways to outreach EITC to more people, cluding notifying those who are eligi- floor and for working to simplify our including those who may not file re- ble about how to apply for it. tax policies. turns. The Taxpayer Protection Act sup- Today’s Tax Code has become so Again, the sponsors heard the con- ports small, family-owned businesses complex that it takes more than 25 cerns of many of us on this committee and allows for spouses of the family- hours to complete an itemized tax re- and crafted a bill today that also man- owned business to pay Social Security turn. That is about 10 hours longer dates the IRS undertake this outing by and Medicare taxes as a sole propri- than in 1988. using IRS’ existing resources and data etorship rather than as a partnership. Small business owners will also ben- to dig deeper and find these eligible This will save our small businesses efit significantly from this legislation people. money, promoting investment and by streamlining the process that mar- The people who qualify and receive growth in our communities. ried couples use to file returns. the earned income tax credit, the peo- I came to Congress to stand up for Our reliance on technology and the ple I am talking about, are the working working families, both in my State, openness of the Internet is greater poor, again poor people who work, and Pennsylvania, and this country. This than ever, and we should improve secu- they need our help. This bill provides bipartisan bill protects taxpayers, pro- rity to defend American taxpayers them an important helping hand. I tects families and protects individuals; from identity theft. thank the sponsors for putting working and I am proud to support it today. I am pleased that provisions in the people first in this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I just want to mention Taxpayer Protection Act increase on- I also want to thank many of the not- our condolences for those at Virginia line security for individuals and allow for-profit groups that are helping our Tech University. I think today every- them to have better recourse in the constituents access EITC. Just yester- body in this country is a Hokie. event of a crime. day, I met with the leadership in New Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to York City of ACORN, and they are 2 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- support H.R. 1677. starting a program to help our mutual constituents reach out so that they can fornia (Mr. HERGER), a distinguished Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I remember of the Ways and Means Com- serve the balance of my time. make access of the EITC, the earned mittee and ranking member of the Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, income tax credit. I once again thank the sponsors of Trade Subcommittee. I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman this legislation. I welcome this new di- Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, in 2001 from New York (Mr. CROWLEY), my col- President Bush and Congress worked to league on the Ways and Means Com- rection in Congress and in America. Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I con- enact the most important tax relief mittee. tinue to reserve the balance of my since Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, thank time. For individuals and families, we re- you for giving me the time. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I also just want to express briefly the duced marginal tax rates on personal I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from income, doubled the child tax credit, support of my constituents in Queens North Carolina (Mr. SHULER). reduced the unfair marriage tax pen- and The Bronx in New York. Their Mr. SHULER. I thank the gentleman alty, phased out the onerous death tax, hearts and prayers are today in Vir- for yielding. and significantly lessened the impact ginia with the students and faculty and Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I would of the alternative minimum tax. We parents of Virginia Tech students. like to offer my thoughts and prayers also provided essential tax relief on in- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support to the family of those who died yester- vestment income. of the Taxpayer Protection Act, a bill day at Virginia Tech and all those af- Far from taxpayer protection, as this that will work to protect and empower fected by this senseless tragedy. bill’s title suggests, we are now hearing taxpayers. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support proposals from the other side that I want to specifically recognize and of this legislation, H.R. 1677, the Tax- would do away with the tax relief of thank Chairman RANGEL not only for payer Protection Act of 2007. the last 6 years. Contrary to the crafting a solid, bipartisan bill, but As we mark the deadline for Federal naysayers, tax relief has played a crit- also for continuing the comity that income taxes today, this bill takes im- ical role in revitalizing our Nation’s has, this year, become the hallmark of portant steps to simplify the tax proc- economy. our committee. ess for family-owned small businesses, Over 7.5 million new jobs have been I would also like to express my grati- which are the backbone of our country created since 2003. The national unem- tude to you, as well as to Oversight and our economy. ployment rate has fallen to a very low Subcommittee Chairman LEWIS and Mr. Speaker, this bill will allow both 4.4 percent. Economic growth has been Ranking Member RAMSTAD for includ- spouses in a family-owned business to steady and strong. Our investment ing important new provisions dealing pay Social Security and Medicare taxes markets are no longer bursting; they with the earned income tax credit. The as a sole proprietorship, not as a part- are booming. EITC has been a great benefit to my nership. American families and small busi- constituents, with almost 114,000 of Mr. Speaker, when a husband and nesses did not just sit on the $1.1 tril- them claiming this credit, bringing wife owns a business together, they are lion that we returned to them. They home to Queens and The Bronx $270 really collecting only one paycheck. put much of it back into our economy million. While impressive, I still have They should only have to pay taxes through investment and consumption. almost 23,000 constituents in my dis- once.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.038 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3422 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Mr. RAMSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I yield I find no small amount of irony hear- Madam Speaker, I fully support H.R. 3 minutes to the gentleman from Geor- ing one of our friends from the other 1677, the Taxpayer Protection Act of gia (Mr. PRICE), a champion of the tax- side of the aisle talk about how it 2007. We must do more for Americans. payer. might be time now for tax reform. The We must protect taxpayers from being (Mr. PRICE of Georgia asked and was other side of the aisle was in charge for victims of fraudulent tax schemes, mis- given permission to revise and extend 12 years, and it is interesting that in leading Web sites and predatory refund his remarks.) the last 6 years, when they controlled loans. Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I appreciate the White House and Congress and had H.R. 1677 does this. It provides higher the gentleman for yielding, and I ap- three major tax bills before us, the penalties for deceptive Web sites and preciate the leadership on both sides of words in the Tax Code increased 1.5 mass e-mails. It requires the IRS to no- the aisle for this issue. million; 1.5 million extra words, spe- tify you if your identity is stolen in a I am heartened by the stated enthu- cial-interest provisions, while ignoring tax scam. It reduces predatory refund siasm of the members of the majority opportunities to simplify the code and loans. party for the Taxpayer Protection Act. to deal meaningfully with the tax tsu- H.R. 1677 expands IRS outreach pro- I am remarkably encouraged. nami that is coming at us, the alter- grams to millions of taxpayers eligible Today being tax day, it is appro- native minimum tax. for the earned income tax credit who have not claimed it. This credit lifts priate that we speak about this issue, b 1400 and it is mostly good work. I would millions of working Americans out of commend the individuals who worked I appreciate the hard work that the poverty each year. on this. It is mostly good work, but I subcommittee has done, dealing with Madam Speaker, this is a good bill. would suggest, Mr. Speaker, that real provisions like this that have no argu- This is an important bill. This is a nec- protection requires real reform, and ment against them. These are things essary bill. On this tax day we must do the real solution to the challenges that that are long overdue. I am glad we are more for taxpayers. I urge my col- we face as Americans, all of us in our moving forward. I commend the sub- leagues, all of my colleagues on both tax system, is that we need funda- committee Chair, and our Chair, Mr. sides of the aisle to vote ‘‘yes’’ for H.R. RANGEL, for looking at other provisions mental reform. 1677. This is an appropriate bill and kind that would level the playing field, that Mr. MARKEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in of tinkers with the margins of our tax would deal with simplification, deal strong support of H.R. 1677, the ‘‘Taxpayer system, and I think those modifica- with fairness, deal with some of the Protection Act of 2007.’’ problems that lower-income citizens tions are, as I mentioned, appropriate I would like to focus my remarks on Section have in terms of trying to cope with 8 of this bill, which clarifies the intent of the and a step in the right direction; but the complexity, and being able to equip Congress that the existing legal prohibitions our current system is extremely re- the Internal Revenue Service to make on the misuse of Department of the Treasury gressive and extremely unfair. sure that we deal with hundreds of bil- So, to talk about the earned income names and symbols also extend to misuse lions of dollars that is uncollected rev- over the Internet. I support this provision, tax credit, it’s an appropriate thing to enue that shifts the burden on the vast which addresses a very real problem that cur- notify people who don’t know that they majority of Americans who are hard rently exists with potentially misleading com- are eligible for that. However, there working, who report their income, who mercial websites that taxpayers may mistak- are embedded taxes in everything that pay their taxes fairly and on time. enly believe to be affiliated with the IRS. we purchase that make our system It isn’t the fault of the worker who In February, the Subcommittee on Tele- right now much more regressive than has got the W–2 that we have this vast communications and the Internet, which I it ought be. amount of uncollected income. We chair, became aware of three commercial There is legislation available that have the complexity. I appreciate what websites operating under domain names would, in fact, promote fundamental this bill represents, a true effort at bi- which may confuse the public into believing reform. It would capture all of the un- partisan cooperation to establish a them to be official IRS websites: IRS.com, derground economy that is fully a foundation. We can move forward to IRS.net and IRS.org. In response to this situa- third of our current economy, nearly $1 have an Internal Revenue Code that is tion, I wrote to the Federal Trade Commission trillion. It would reward those kinds of fair and effective for all. Chairman Majoras, Secretary of the Treasury things that we say that we want, like Mr. RAMSTAD. Madam Speaker, Paulson, and Internal Revenue Service Com- hard work and success and entrepre- may I just inquire as to how many missioner Everson to express my concerns neurship and vision and all those won- speakers the other side may have. that consumers who visited these sites might derful American ideals. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. That was my provide the operators with personally identifi- That bill is H.R. 25. It is the fair tax, last speaker, Mr. Ranking Member. able information and tax return information, the national retail sales tax. It would Mr. RAMSTAD. Madam Speaker, be- enabling the operators to either market or sell bring about true fundamental reform fore yielding back, I too want to ex- this information to others, or to sell and market and would bring about true protection press my deepest sympathy to the en- all manner of products and services to these for the American taxpayer. tire Virginia Tech community. Like taxpayers. So I commend the individuals who every other Member of this body, my A consumer survey and study presented to brought forward H.R. 1677, and I would thoughts and prayers are with all those the IRS and FTC in early January of this year suggest, Mr. Speaker, that this is a affected by the tragic and senseless by the Computer and Communications Indus- small step in the right direction. How- loss of lives. try Association suggested that a significant ever, real reform requires real change. Having no further speakers, I urge a proportion of consumers misinterpreted these Fundamental reform to our tax system strong ‘‘yes’’ vote for this taxpayer three non-governmental Websites as being is what is needed, and I am hopeful protection. sites hosted by the IRS. The survey showed, that in relatively short order we will Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- for example, that before viewing the website be able to embrace each other with real ance of my time. IRS.com, 47 percent of those surveyed be- fundamental reform to our entire tax Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam lieved the site represented the Internet ad- system on the floor of this House. Speaker, I too, before I close this de- dress of the Internal Revenue Service. Even Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam bate on this bill, join with my col- after viewing the site, 1⁄3 of those surveyed still Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- leagues and others to mourn for the believed the site was the IRS website. tleman from Oregon (Mr. BLUMEN- victims of this unspeakable, unbeliev- Now, the IRS.com website bears a remark- AUER), a member of the Ways and able, senseless act of violence at Vir- able resemblance to the official IRS.gov site. Means Committee. ginia Tech. We mourn, we pray for the Both websites have the same color blue ban- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, victims and for their families. ner at the very top, a grey search bar right I appreciate my colleague from Geor- I also want to thank my colleague, below, and a white background with various gia, the distinguished chairman of the my friend, the ranking member, Mr. links and search features covering the bulk of Oversight Committee, for permitting RAMSTAD, for all of his help in bringing the page. Back in February, the IRS.com site me to speak on this bill, and I com- this piece of legislation, as I stated be- even had an actual image of the U.S. Treas- mend his hard work. fore, before us today. ury headquarters building on the top of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.040 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3423 page. At the time, there was only a fine-print sensitive data contained in those returns and Internet address of the Internal Revenue Serv- disclaimer at the bottom of these sites stating to enhance taxpayer rights. ice. Even after viewing the site, one third of that that it was a non-governmental site. This Identity theft is a large and growing problem those surveyed still believed the site was the disclaimer was so far down on the webpage in our society, and unfortunately, a lack of vigi- IRS Web site. that few consumers were likely to view it. lance on the part of the IRS has contributed Now, the IRS.com Web site bears a remark- I continue to be concerned about the poten- to that problem. One criminal who testified be- able resemblance to the official IRS.gov site. tial for unfair or deceptive trade practices as- fore the Senate Finance Committee last week Both Web sites have the same color blue ban- sociated with these commercial websites, and detailed how he stole $1.1 million from the ner at the very top, a grey search bar right I believe that we need to do more to ensure Treasury by using stolen identities to claim below, and a white background with various that the public does not continue to be ex- fraudulent refunds. While this individual is links and search features covering the bulk of posed to these potentially misleading or con- rightly serving time in prison, we must act to the page. Back in February, the IRS.com site fusing websites. There is no relationship be- prevent such crimes in the future. even had an actual image of the U.S. Treas- tween a citizen and our government more sen- This legislation contains a number of com- ury headquarters building on the top of the sitive, nor information more private, than that mon sense provisions to accomplish just that, page. At the time, there was only a fine-print involving individual taxes and the annual vol- including a requirement that the IRS notify a disclaimer at the bottom of this site stating that untary compliance obligation. The federal gov- taxpayer if it discovers that there may have it was a non-governmental site. This dis- ernment has a duty to protect taxpayers from been an unauthorized use of the taxpayer’s claimer was so far down on the Web page predatory behaviors as they seek to meet their identity during the course of a tax fraud inves- that few consumers were likely to view it. obligation to pay taxes. tigation and the authority for the IRS to notify I asked the FTC, the Treasury, and the IRS I am hopeful that, by clarifying the intent of taxpayers on the Internet about unclaimed tax to look into the issues raised by this Web site, the Congress that the existing legal prohibi- refunds. It also increases penalties on mis- as well as the IRS.org and IRS.net sites. The tions on misuse of Treasury Department and leading websites that use government names IRS and the Treasury Department have never IRS names and symbols are and should be and symbols to engage in the fraudulent prac- formally responded to my inquiry. However, applied to commercial activity on the Internet, tice known as ‘‘phishing. ‘‘ the IRS has issued a press statement warning this bill will better protect the public from this I am also pleased that it enhances Earned taxpayers about these potentially misleading kind of operation in the future. Income Tax Credit outreach so that every tax- sites. The FTC did respond to my letter, but in I urge adoption of the bill. payer who is eligible for this credit realizes its that response merely noted that in response to Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise benefits. the concerns I had raised, the operator had today in support of H.R. 1677, the Taxpayer Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ‘‘made a number of changes to distinguish it Protection Act of 2007. Too often, middle- support the legislation. from the official IRS Web site, and to better class taxpayers find themselves confused and Mr. MARKEY. Madam Speaker, I rise in highlight the disclaimers included on the Web frustrated by the complexity of the tax code. strong support of H.R. 1677, the ‘‘Taxpayer site.’’ Over 60 percent of taxpayers now use a paid Protection Act of 2007.’’ I continue to be concerned about the poten- preparer to file their tax return, costing them I would like to focus my remarks on Section tial for unfair or deceptive trade practices as- hundreds or thousands of dollars that they 8 of this bill, which clarifies the intent of the sociated with these commercial Web sites, could have used for college, health care, or Congress that the existing legal prohibitions and I believe that we need to do more to en- retirement. on the misuse of Department of Treasury sure that the public does not continue to be This legislation provides overdue relief for names and symbols extend to misuse over the exposed to these potentially misleading or taxpayers that will protect them from fraud, re- Internet. I support this provision, which ad- confusing Web sites. There is no relationship quire the IRS to do a better job of commu- dresses a very real problem that currently ex- between a citizen and our government more nicating which tax credits a taxpayer can qual- ists with potentially misleading commercial sensitive, nor information more private, than ify for, and hold tax cheats accountable for Web sites that taxpayers may mistakenly be- that involving individual taxes and the annual their actions. Today is Tax Day, and this legis- lieve to be affiliated with the IRS. voluntary compliance obligation. The federal lation sends a message to taxpayers that help In February, the Subcommittee on Tele- government has a duty to protect taxpayers is on the way. communications and the Internet, which I from predatory behaviors as they seek to meet Hearings held by Chairman JOHN LEWIS pro- chair, became aware of three commercial Web their obligation to pay taxes. I am hopeful that vided ample evidence that taxpayers are too sites operating under domain names which by clarifying the intent of the Congress that often exposed to identify theft or unaware of may confuse the public into believing them to the existing legal prohibitions on misuse of potential benefits. The Taxpayer Protection be official IRS Web sites: IRS.com, IRS.net, Treasury Department and IRS names and Act will require the IRS to notify taxpayers in- and IRS.org. In response to this situation, I symbols is and should be applied to commer- volved in tax fraud investigations that there wrote to the Federal Trade Commission Chair- cial activity on the Internet, that this bill will may have been an unauthorized use of their man Majoras, Secretary of the Treasury better protect the public from this kind of oper- identities, will provide filers with a longer pe- Paulson, and Internal Revenue Service Com- ation in the future. riod of time to seek restitution from the IRS for missioner Everson to express my concerns I urge adoption of the bill. a wrongful penalty, punish predatory lenders, that consumers who visited these sites might Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam and require the IRS to promote the Earned In- provide the operators with personally identifi- Speaker, I yield back the balance of come Tax Credit so that more Americans can able information and tax return information, my time. take care of a tax benefit they have earned enabling the operators to either market or sell The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. but have not been notified. this information to others, or to sell and market TAUSCHER). The question is on the mo- Madam Speaker, Tax Day can be a difficult all manner of products and services to these tion offered by the gentleman from day for many Americans. Let us do our part to taxpayers. Since the taxpayers who provide Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) that the House make common-sense reforms that put the personal information to these sites might be suspend the rules and pass the bill, government back on the side of the average doing so under the misimpression that they H.R. 1677, as amended. taxpayer. were dealing with an official government Web The question was taken. I thank Mr. RANGEL, the Chairman of the site subject to applicable federal privacy pro- Ways and Means Committee, for his leader- tections, I felt there was a serious potential for The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the ship on this issue, and I urge my colleagues consumer confusion, deception, and abuse. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it. to join me in voting for H.R. 1677, the Tax- In fact, a consumer survey and study pre- payer Protection Act of 2007. sented to the IRS and FTC in early January of Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam Mr. LEVIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in this year by the Computer and Communica- Speaker, on that I demand the yeas strong support of H.R. 1677, the Taxpayer tions Industry Association suggested that a and nays. Protection Act. significant proportion of consumers misinter- The yeas and nays were ordered. I would note that its consideration today is preted these three nongovernmental Web The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- particularly timely as millions of hardworking sites as being sites hosted by the IRS. The ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the Americans file their tax returns. Those workers survey showed, for example, that before view- Chair’s prior announcement, further and families deserve to know that their gov- ing the Web site IRS.com, 47 percent of those proceedings on this question will be ernment is taking every step to protect the surveyed believed the site represented the postponed.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.018 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3424 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND national Development, and all relevant Fed- clean water and basic sanitation to the IDEALS OF WORLD WATER DAY eral departments and agencies towards pro- poorest of the poor. H. Res. 196 urges viding sustainable and equitable access to Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I our own government to utilize every safe drinking water and sanitation for the resource at our disposal to improve ac- move to suspend the rules and agree to poor and very poor; and the resolution (H. Res. 196) supporting (4) encourages the people of the United cess to clean water and sanitation for the goals and ideals of World Water States to observe World Water Day with ap- those most in need. It recognizes the Day. propriate recognition, ceremonies, activities, importance of conservation and sus- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- and programs to demonstrate the impor- tainable management of water re- tion. tance of water to humanity. sources to both human health and the The text of the resolution is as fol- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- quality of life. lows: ant to the rule, the gentleman from We must do all we can to provide California (Mr. LANTOS) and the gentle- clean water and basic sanitation for all H. RES. 196 woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- people across the globe. Whereas the global celebration of World LEHTINEN) each will control 20 minutes. Madam Speaker, I strongly support Water Day is an initiative that grew out of The Chair recognizes the gentleman this resolution and urge all of my col- the 1992 United Nations Conference on Envi- ronment and Development in Rio de Janeiro; from California. leagues to do so. Whereas the United Nations General As- GENERAL LEAVE Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- sembly, via resolution, designated March 22 Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I ask ance of my time. of each year as World Water Day; unanimous consent that all Members Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- Whereas although water is the most widely may have 5 legislative days to revise er, I yield myself such time as I may occurring substance on earth, only 2.53 per- and extend their remarks and include consume. cent of all water is freshwater and the re- extraneous material on the resolution I rise in support of House Resolution mainder is salt water; under consideration. 196, which expresses the support of this Whereas freshwater resources are further The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there House for the goals and ideals associ- impaired by various forms of industrial, chemical, human, and agricultural pollution; objection to the request of the gen- ated with World Water Day. Whereas climate change will increasingly tleman from California? The lack of access to safe drinking pose a challenge for ensuring the availability There was no objection. water and the lack of adequate sanita- of sufficient water supplies at the appro- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise tion systems continue to be major priate times; in strong support of this resolution, problems for poor people around the Whereas approximately one in six people in and I yield myself such time as I might world despite our strong efforts over the world lack access to safe drinking water consume. many decades to help address those and approximately two in every five people I would first like to commend my dis- challenges. The lack of clean water and lack access to basic sanitation services; tinguished colleague and a former sanitation systems in many parts of Whereas water-related diseases are among member of the Committee on Foreign the most common causes of illness and the world lead to the spread of disease Affairs, EARL BLUMENAUER of Oregon, death, afflicting primarily the poor and very and to the deaths that might otherwise poor in developing countries; for introducing this important resolu- have been avoided and undermines the Whereas up to five million people die each tion. efforts we take to assist poor people year from preventable water and sanitation Nearly 5 years ago, representatives of around the world as they seek a better related diseases, including one out of every governments around the globe, includ- life. five children in the poorest countries; ing the United States, stood together Madam Speaker, I just got back last Whereas every $1 invested in safe drinking and agreed to reduce by one-half the week from a heart-wrenching trip to water and sanitation yields an economic re- number of people who lack access to turn of between $3 and $34, depending on the Darfur, and we saw firsthand how im- safe drinking water and basic sanita- portant a resource water is to so many region; tion by the year 2015. We now stand at people. We saw, by visiting the clinics, Whereas increasing access to safe drinking the midpoint of that target, and we are water and sanitation advances efforts to- how many people are afflicted with the no closer to reaching it than we were wards other United States development ob- diseases that are borne because of the at the outset. jectives including fighting poverty and hun- water that is not pure, that is not sani- ger, promoting primary education and gen- Today over 900 million people lack access to safe water, and over 1.3 bil- tized and that is, in fact, full of bac- der equality, reducing child mortality, pro- teria. I understand how important it is moting environmental stability, improving lion people do not have access to basic the lives of slum dwellers, and strengthening sanitation. Climate change is rapidly to support the goals and ideals of this national security; depleting the world’s already badly resolution before us commemorating Whereas the participants in the 2002 World stretched water resources. World Water Day. Summit on Sustainable Development in Jo- Each year more than 3 billion of our In addition to sanitation and access hannesburg, including the United States, fellow human beings suffer from pre- to clean water, the conservation of agreed to the Plan of Implementation which water resources is, itself, an increasing included an agreement to work to reduce by ventable water-related diseases. As a result of these diseases, 5 million peo- challenge around the world. Conserva- one-half from the baseline year 1990 ‘‘the tion of drinking water will, in fact, re- proportion of people who are unable to reach ple die. Most of these victims are chil- or to afford safe drinking water,’’ and ‘‘the dren under the age of 5. Clearly, more main even a greater challenge in the proportion of people without access to basic must be done to address this humani- near future as mankind’s population sanitation’’ by 2015; and tarian catastrophe. continues to expand and the demand Whereas Congress passed and the President Our legislation, H. Res. 196, dem- for fresh, clean water increases. signed into law the ‘‘Senator Paul Simon onstrates the commitment of the Con- In calling for the appropriate Depart- Water for the Poor Act of 2005’’ (Public Law gress to achieve the goals and ideals of ments and agencies of the United 109–121) which was intended to ‘‘elevate the World Water Day to increase the avail- States Government to increase our ef- role of water and sanitation policy in the de- forts to support access to clean water, velopment of U.S. foreign policy and improve ability of clean water. the effectiveness of U.S. official programs’’: Collectively, we have the means to availability of sanitation systems and Now, therefore, be it address this global crisis. What we need conservation of water, this resolution Resolved, That the House of Representa- is political will for action. Congress properly cites the Senator Paul Simon tives— swiftly acted with the passage of the Water for the Poor Act of 2005 enacted (1) supports the goals and ideals of World Senator Paul Simon Water for the Poor in the last Congress, which called for a Water Day; Act in 2005, a critically important piece greater focus on the objectives that are (2) recognizes the importance of increasing of legislation spearheaded by the dis- associated with World Water Day. access to safe drinking water and sanitation, tinguished gentleman from Oregon (Mr. This resolution rightfully seeks to as well as the conservation and sustainable highlight this global problem encour- management of water resources, to human BLUMENAUER) with the support of my health and quality of life across the globe; former colleague, Chairman Henry aging all of us to observe World Water (3) urges an increased effort and the invest- Hyde, and myself. Day every year on March 22. I support ment of greater resources by the Department This resolution is another step in im- the intent of this resolution and its of State, the United States Agency for Inter- proving our commitment to bringing adoption by this House.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.042 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3425 Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Lack of access to drinking water and comes back to Congress this June with ance of our time. sanitation is the number one prevent- its second report on the implementa- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I am able killer in the world. And I won’t re- tion of the bipartisan ‘‘Water for the pleased to yield 7 minutes to the au- peat the statistics, mind numbing as Poor Act,’’ I would hope that it will thor of this resolution, my good friend they are, of over 2 billion people with- match our legislation in scope, ambi- from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER). out access to sanitation, and the fact tion, and focus. If not, let us return to Mr. BLUMENAUER. I appreciate the that half the people who are sick today the drawing board to find ways to help chairman’s courtesy. I appreciate his around the globe are sick needlessly the State Department meet its obliga- leadership in working with me on this from waterborne diseases. tion under the Act. bill. As my friend from Florida said, this Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. I am now Madam Speaker, as we stagger under is tied to other health problems, HIV/ pleased to yield such time as he may the implications of what we have just AIDS, and poverty reduction. The trag- consume to the gentleman from Ten- witnessed at Virginia Tech, I think edy is compounded because we are not nessee (Mr. DUNCAN), who is the former part of what we ought to do is to re- doing enough to stop it. By recognizing chairman of the Subcommittee on dedicate ourselves to simple steps that the goals and ideals of World Water Water Resources and the Environment, will help make the world a better Day, we commit again on this floor to and representing a district that sur- place. I can think of no better or direct spread the word about this grave issue rounds Knoxville and includes Knox- way for us to act today than what this and build the momentum to address it. ville, who passed a resolution sup- legislation means for us. As the chairman of the Foreign Af- porting the ideals of the issue before I would begin by thanking the gentle- fairs Committee pointed out, in 2002 us. woman from Texas, Ms. JOHNSON, who the world did take a stand. I was privi- Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I can’t be here right now because she is leged to be at that conference in Jo- thank, first of all, the gentlelady from actually chairing a committee dealing hannesburg, where the United States Florida, the new ranking member of with water pollution as we speak, as and 185 other countries agreed to that the Foreign Affairs Committee, for Chair of the Water Resources Sub- ambitious goal. The frustration is that yielding me this time and for her kind committee. She has been really a ter- this goal can be met, if done correctly, words and her strong support of this rific champion. I see here today my for less than the cost of a takeout pizza legislation. I also commend Chairman friend from Tennessee, the former a year for an American family. LANTOS for bringing this resolution to Chair of the subcommittee, who like- In 2005, the Congress passed and the the floor. But I especially want to com- wise has been focusing on the central President signed into law the Paul mend my good friend and colleague, need for us to be respectful of water Simon Water for the Poor Act, which I the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. supply. thought was important because not As the old joke goes, God gives us BLUMENAUER) for his work in bringing only were we for the first time taking water for free, but he doesn’t give us this matter to the floor today and also a stand, but the way that we did it, the pipes, the distribution system and calling attention to what is a very, with the leadership of Mr. LANTOS and purification. very serious problem. Across the world, as my good friends Mr. Hyde; and on the Senate side we I had the privilege of chairing the from the Foreign Affairs Committee had the minority leader and the major- Aviation Subcommittee for 6 years, have just enumerated, every day mil- ity leader coming together in broad bi- and that subcommittee seemed to gen- lions and millions of poor people are partisan legislation. We were for the erate a lot of attention and publicity. paying the price for nature’s failure to first time providing a plan to imple- Then I chaired for 6 years the Water provide water exactly where they live, ment the commitment that the United Resources and Environment Sub- and a failure of stewardship on the part States and 185 other countries made. committee, and unfortunately I think of governments and individuals to take I am saddened as we come to the people did not pay as much attention care of the water that they have. floor today, however, that the Bush ad- to that subcommittee; and I thought it ministration has failed to implement was just as important, perhaps more b 1415 this legislation. Instead, as I read the important, than the Aviation Sub- They are paying the price for pollu- budget, the President has proposed committee. And yet I said many times tion from inadequate or nonexistent major cuts to the already inadequate there probably is nothing that the peo- sanitation, and far too many poor peo- commitment from the United States to ple in this country take for granted as ple are paying a huge amount of their water and sanitation. much as they do our clean water and scarce income because they can’t oth- The centerpiece of this bill was to wastewater infrastructure in this Na- erwise get water. They are paying in create a strategy for meeting our inter- tion. time and in money. There are some national commitments, to bring to- Madam Speaker, much work needs to poor people that are slowly going blind gether some 15 agencies and depart- be done in this country in regard to our because of arsenic poisoning in their ments, to have a plan. Sadly, the dead- water to keep it to the standards that water system in Bangladesh. line has passed, and as yet, we don’t the people of this country want. And so I used to think that the pictures in have yet that comprehensive plan. We the day after tomorrow we will hope- the National Geographic articles with continue to use gimmicks and numbers fully pass a long overdue bill, the the water jug on the head was sort of games to claim that the administra- Water Resources Development Act, a exotic, but now I recognize this as the tion is meeting Congress’ require- bill that we passed two or three times face of poverty. Indeed it is a travesty ments, but they are not. This resolu- here in the House, that has been held as young women particularly spend 1, tion ought to be a point of emphasis up in the Senate, but that is very, very 2, or 3 hours with that jug of water bal- that Congress demands a greater effort, important for our water infrastructure anced on their head to meet the needs not lesser, from the administration, in this Nation. of their family. That is time that they and indeed from ourselves, as we come You have heard some of the statistics are not spending in school, that is time forward with the budgets this year. We already. My statistics vary just a little that they are not spending economi- should insist that the United States bit. I was given the information that cally to support that family. As has stand by its word and actually do 1.2 billion don’t have access to clean been mentioned, every 15 seconds a something about this crisis. We are water; Chairman LANTOS said a lower child dies from lack of access to safe saying that we have to partner with figure, I think Mr. BLUMENAUER said a drinking water and sanitation, and poor people wherever they are, not in a higher figure, but it is an astounding each is an unnecessary death because few allied countries in the Middle East, number of people, whatever the exact we know exactly what to do to stop it. but especially in sub-Saharan Africa, number is, that don’t have access to a Indeed, there are people from churches in South Asia, and around the world. good, clean water source. and synagogues and Boy Scout troops I would hope that with the help of Water-related diseases, as Chairman and Kiwanis Clubs that are acting on the Foreign Affairs Committee and the LANTOS said, kill over 5 million people their own to help provide water around distinguished leadership on the floor each year. Six million are blind today the world. here that when the State Department because of trachoma, an eye infection

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.044 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3426 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 spread through poor hygiene caused by that this company, USA Springs, is The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the dirty water and unsanitary conditions. now dangerously close to winning this opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being I could give all kinds of statistics. battle it started in 2001. Similar battles in the affirmative, the ayes have it. As the gentlelady from Florida (Ms. are being fought in communities all Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, on ROS-LEHTINEN) said, I was proud that over the country. that I demand the yeas and nays. in my hometown of Knoxville recently, The basic building blocks of life, like The yeas and nays were ordered. the city council, at the urging of our water, must be accessible by people be- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- great Mayor Bill Haslam, passed a fore corporations and must be managed ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the proclamation in support of World as a public trust, not reduced to a com- Chair’s prior announcement, further Water Day. This was done without my modity. proceedings on this question will be knowledge, and so I am pleased that Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I am postponed. other people are helping to call atten- pleased to yield 2 minutes to my friend f and neighbor from California, Con- tion to what is one of the most serious b 1430 problems that this world faces today. gresswoman LYNN WOOLSEY, chair- And so I think that it is very appro- woman of the Education and Labor CONDEMNING RECENT VIOLENT priate that the Congress take up a res- Subcommittee on Workforce Protec- ACTIONS OF GOVERNMENT OF olution at this time, and I think that tions. ZIMBABWE AGAINST PEACEFUL this will help lead to progress in this Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, OPPOSITION PARTY ACTIVISTS area, much, much needed progress; and today I rise in support of the World AND MEMBERS OF CIVIL SOCI- I urge support for this resolution. Water Day resolution, H.R. 196, and I ETY Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I am am proud to be a cosponsor of Con- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I pleased to yield 2 minutes to my good gressman BLUMENAUER’s resolution. move to suspend the rules and agree to friend from Ohio, the distinguished The district I represent includes the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. chairman of the Oversight and Govern- Marin and Sonoma Counties just north 100) condemning the recent violent ac- ment Reform Subcommittee on Domes- of San Francisco. My district is very tions of the Government of Zimbabwe tic Policy, Mr. KUCINICH. ecologically diverse. In fact, we are against peaceful opposition party ac- Mr. KUCINICH. I thank my friend, putting new life into our wetlands, we tivists and members of civil society, as Mr. LANTOS. are expanding our wetlands. We have amended. I rise as a proud cosponsor of this bill wastewater treatment plants that The Clerk read the title of the con- emphasizing the importance of water. make it possible for us to send our current resolution. Despite the availability of advanced wastewater and use our wastewater to The text of the concurrent resolution and inexpensive water treatment tech- water our grapes, and we have one of is as follows: nologies and despite an aggregate level the best grape growing counties in the H. CON. RES. 100 of wealth that should preclude injus- country. Whereas in 2005 the Government of tice, one in six people in the world still In fact, in my very own backyard, my Zimbabwe launched Operation Muram- lack access to safe drinking water. drip system that waters my yard is batsvina (‘‘Operation Throw Out the Trash’’) Global warming is expected to worsen controlled by satellite because my against citizens in major cities and suburbs the situation. town of Petaluma is experimenting. throughout Zimbabwe, depriving over 700,000 At the same time, privatization of They picked 100 houses and asked us, people of their homes, businesses, and liveli- our scarce water supplies is also pro- would we let them use our drip systems hoods; liferating. It drives up the price of a Whereas on March 11, 2007, opposition as an experimental project; and it will party activists and members of civil society life-giving resource under the guise of indeed save me money and save water, attempted to hold a peaceful prayer meeting making it cheaper. In its most egre- I am sure. Along with that, many of to protest the economic and political crisis gious form, bottled water companies our commercial and recreation activi- engulfing Zimbabwe, where inflation is run- overpump a valuable water supply, re- ties in my district are focused around ning over 3,000 percent and formal sector un- stricting access to only those who can water. employment stands at 80 percent and in re- afford to pay more for water than for So even with programs like this sponse to President Robert Mugabe’s an- gas. throughout our country, throughout nouncement that he intends to seek reelec- I represent an area of Cleveland that, tion in 2008; the world, we are squandering. We still Whereas opposition activist Gift Tandare like many nearby cities, relies on Lake squander this precious resource called died on March 11, 2007, as a result of being Erie for drinking water. During nego- water. shot by police while attempting to attend tiations by Great Lakes States over World Water Day raises the profile of the prayer meeting and Itai Manyeruke died the conditions under which water could the issue. It means that we must keep on March 12, 2007, as a result of police beat- be withdrawn from Lake Erie and the on working, we must keep on paying ings and was found in a morgue by his family surrounding Great Lakes, the bottled attention to safe and sustainable water on March 20, 2007; water industry slipped in their own supplies, and we must make safe and Whereas under the direction of President language; it allowed exclusive, unlim- Robert Mugabe and the Zimbabwe African sustainable water available without re- National Union–Patriotic Front (ZANU–PF) ited access to Great Lakes water by gard to any economic or any political government, police officers, security forces, their industry. By weakening the boundaries. and youth militia brutally assaulted the agreement in this way, it also paved Recently, there has been an entirely peaceful demonstrators and arrested opposi- the way for any corporation to have renewed attention to global warming, tion leaders and hundreds of civilians; full access to the lakes, even at the ex- and with that, we are paying more at- Whereas Movement for Democratic Change pense of the public water supply. This tention to our water resources and (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangarai was bru- is happening at a time when both water what we need to do to keep a safe and tally assaulted and suffered a fractured quality and quantity are expected to liveable world, not just for Americans, skull, lacerations, and major bruising; MDC member Sekai Holland, a 64-year old grand- decline as a result of global warming. not just for Petalumans, but for every- mother, suffered ruthless attacks at In Nottingham and Barrington, two one. Highfield Police Station, which resulted in small New Hampshire towns, a com- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I the breaking of her leg, knee, arm, and three pany called USA Springs is attempting yield back the balance of my time. ribs; fellow activist Grace Kwinje, age 33, to pump 310,000 gallons a day in an area Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- also was brutally beaten, while part of one populated with homes that get their er, I yield back the balance of my time. ear was ripped off; and Nelson Chamisa was water from small, private, household The SPEAKER pro tempore. The badly injured by suspected state agents at wells. The community is concerned question is on the motion offered by Harare airport on March 18, 2007, when try- about loss of their water supply, loss of the gentleman from California (Mr. ing to board a plane for a meeting of Africa Caribbean Pacific (APC) lawmakers in Brus- water quality, degradation of nearby LANTOS) that the House suspend the sels, Belgium; wetlands, but USA Springs is using rules and agree to the resolution, H. Whereas Zimbabwe’s foreign minister their substantial resources to over- Res. 196. warned Western diplomats that the Govern- whelm the community. The result is The question was taken. ment of Zimbabwe would expel them if they

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.045 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3427 gave support to the opposition, and said erately inflict gross physical harm, intimi- Zimbabwe was once known as South- Western diplomats had gone too far by offer- dation, and abuse on those legitimately pro- ern Africa’s bread basket. But after ing food and water to jailed opposition activ- testing the failing policies of the govern- years of disastrous misrule, the people ists; ment; Whereas victims of physical assault by the (B) holds those individual police, security there now find themselves eating field Government of Zimbabwe have been denied force members, and militia involved in abuse mice to stave off hunger. Zimbabwean emergency medical transfer to hospitals in and torture responsible for the acts that officials have the temerity to declare neighboring South Africa, where their they have committed; to the world that they eat field mice wounds can be properly treated; (C) condemns government harassment and because they are a delicacy. Whereas those incarcerated by the Govern- intimidation of lawyers attempting to carry On March 11, many segments of ment of Zimbabwe were denied access to out their professional obligations to their Zimbabwe’s society joined together to legal representatives and lawyers appearing clients and repeated failure by police to com- hold a prayer breakfast to focus atten- at the jails to meet with detained clients ply promptly with court decisions; were themselves threatened and intimidated; (D) condemns the harassment of foreign of- tion on the country’s desperate situa- Whereas at the time of Zimbabwe’s inde- ficials, journalists, human rights workers, tion. The government reacted swiftly, pendence, President Robert Mugabe was and others, including threatening their ex- violently cracking down on the gath- hailed as a liberator and Zimbabwe showed pulsion from the country if they continue to ering. In this incident, six opposition bright prospects for democracy, economic provide food and water to victims detained activists were shot, and over 50 had to development, domestic reconciliation, and in prison and in police custody while in the be hospitalized, including key opposi- prosperity; hospital; tion leaders, many of whom did not get Whereas President Robert Mugabe and his (E) commends United States Ambassador ZANU–PF government continue to turn Christopher Dell and other United States proper treatment for their severe inju- away from the promises of liberation and use Government officials and foreign officials for ries. state power to deny the people of Zimbabwe their support to political detainees and vic- This latest incident underscores a the freedom and prosperity they fought for tims of torture and abuse while in police cus- disturbing pattern of recent years. The and deserve; tody or in medical care centers and encour- Zimbabwean Government pledges Whereas the staggering suffering brought ages them to continue providing such sup- peace, then commits human rights vio- about by the misrule of Zimbabwe has cre- port; lations against its own people, and it ated a large-scale humanitarian crisis in (F) calls on the Government of Zimbabwe precipitates humanitarian crisis after which 3,500 people die each week from a com- to cease immediately its violent campaign humanitarian crisis. In response to le- bination of disease, hunger, neglect, and de- against fundamental human rights, to re- spair; spect the courts and members of the legal gitimate protests, the government has Whereas the Chairman of the African profession, and to restore the rule of law retaliated with draconian legislation Union, President Alpha Oumar Konare, ex- while adhering to the principles embodied in and harsh security enforcement. It pressed ‘‘great concern’’ about Zimbabwe’s an accountable democracy, including free- transformed Zimbabwe’s poor children crisis and called for the need for the scru- dom of association and freedom of expres- into violent militia members, not un- pulous respect for human rights and demo- sion; like child soldiers in other ravaged Af- cratic principles in Zimbabwe; (G) calls on the Government of Zimbabwe Whereas the Southern African Develop- rican countries. to cease illegitimate interference in travel In 2005, the Zimbabwean Government ment Community (SADC) Council of Non- abroad by its citizens, especially for humani- governmental Organizations stated that ‘‘We tarian purposes; and launched its infamous Operation Throw believe that the crisis has reached a point (H) calls on the leaders of the Southern Af- Out the Trash against citizens in major where Zimbabweans need to be strongly per- rican Development Community (SADC) and cities, driving some 700,000 innocent suaded and directly assisted to find an ur- the African Union to consult urgently with people from their homes, businesses, gent solution to the crisis that affects the all Zimbabwe stakeholders to intervene with and livelihoods. entire region.’’; the Government of Zimbabwe while applying So I ask Mugabe, the dictator of this Whereas Zambian President Levy appropriate pressures to resolve the eco- country, what kind of human being Mwanawasa has likened Zimbabwe to a nomic and political crisis. ‘‘sinking Titanic’’ and has urged southern called himself a ‘‘leader,’’ yet is willing Africa to take a new approach to Zimbabwe, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- to commit atrocities against the very stating that ‘‘quiet diplomacy has failed to ant to the rule, the gentleman from people he is supposed to lead? help solve the political chaos and economic California (Mr. LANTOS) and the gentle- In spite of Zimbabwe’s embittered meltdown in Zimbabwe’’; woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- rhetoric toward the United States, our Whereas European Union and African, Car- LEHTINEN) each will control 20 minutes. Congress passed, 6 years ago, the ibbean, and Pacific lawmakers strongly con- GENERAL LEAVE Zimbabwe Democracy and Economic demned the latest attack on an opposition Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I ask Recovery Act, offering significant eco- official in Zimbabwe and urged the govern- unanimous consent that all Members ment in Harare to cooperate with the polit- nomic and political aid to Zimbabwe if ical opposition to restore the rule of law; and may have 5 legislative days to revise it would reverse its anti-democratic Whereas United States Ambassador to and extend their remarks and include and anti-people ways. Zimbabwe, Christopher Dell, warned that op- extraneous material on the resolution Zimbabwe had invaded a neighboring position to President Robert Mugabe had under consideration. country, grossly mismanaged its econ- reached a tipping point because the people The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there omy, flaunted the rule of law and no longer feared the regime and believed objection to the request of the gen- democratic practices. Using the diplo- they had nothing left to lose: Now, therefore, tleman from California? matic tools at our disposal, our govern- be it There was no objection. Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I ment imposed travel and economic Senate concurring), That— yield myself such time as I may con- sanctions against individuals who were (1) it is the sense of Congress that— sume. responsible for the grossest violations. (A) the state-sponsored violence taking Madam Speaker, first I want to The United States remains open to place in Zimbabwe represents a serious vio- change in Zimbabwe, hopeful about lation of fundamental human rights and the thank my good friend from Florida, Ranking Member ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN prospects and ready to reward its ar- rule of law and should be condemned by all rival. We clearly provided an oppor- responsible governments, civic organiza- of the Foreign Affairs Committee, tions, religious leaders, and international Chairman DONALD PAYNE and Ranking tunity for Zimbabwe to reverse course bodies; and Member CHRIS SMITH, and all the other and to reap generous economic benefits (B) the Government of Zimbabwe has not cosponsors of this resolution for join- from the American people. lived up to its commitments as a signatory ing me in condemning the egregious vi- Unfortunately, the Zimbabwean lead- to the Constitutive Act of the African Union olence perpetrated against innocent ci- ers are bent on a bitter and disastrous and African Charter of Human and Peoples vilians by the Government of course that no sane or rational appeal Rights which enshrine commitment to Zimbabwe. from its own citizens or the commu- human rights and good governance as For the past 6 years, the Government nity of nations has been able to re- foundational principles of African states; and (2) Congress— of Zimbabwe has been on a path of verse. (A) condemns the Government of failed policies and distorted vision. As Today Zimbabwe, once one of the Zimbabwe’s violent suppression of political the economy of the country spiraled most promising countries of Africa, is and human rights through its police force, downward, the Central Bank has been a dismal shadow of its former self. It security forces, and youth militia that delib- unresponsive and reckless. faces an unfathomable inflation rate of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.013 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3428 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 3,000 percent, the highest on the planet, Mugabe thumbs his nose at Western partment of Foreign Affairs expressed and a shocking 80 percent of the people nations that condemn his assault on concern about the situation as well. of the country are unemployed. basic human rights, particularly those The leaders of Southern Africa’s De- Our resolution condemns the eco- who appear committed to helping velopment Community held a meeting nomic and political madness that is Zimbabwe realize its potential through of extraordinary heads of state in Tan- gripping Zimbabwe and urges the gov- true democratic reform. zania in the wake of violence and asked ernment to return to sanity, end the Zimbabwe’s neighbors and the Afri- South African President Thabo Mbeki state-sponsored violence, and address can Union should take proactive meas- to help resolve the situation. the needs of its people. ures to help resolve this crisis, includ- This is an important step, and we I, again, want to thank all of those ing by pressing the Mugabe regime to should support SADC’s effort. It is im- who cosponsored my resolution and immediately halt its brutal crackdown, perative that Congress do all we can to urge all of my colleagues to vote in to release political prisoners, and to ensure that human rights and the rule support of H. Con. Res. 100. engage in meaningful dialogue with the of law are respected in Zimbabwe Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- opposition and with civil society. across the political spectrum. ance of my time. The President of Zambia already has As Mr. LANTOS mentioned, Zimbabwe Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- stepped up to the plate in this regard, had great promise. When the struggle er, I yield myself such time as I may and South Africa would be well advised to end white rule of Ian Smith was led consume. to follow suit. by Mr. Nkhomo and Mr. Mugabe, the I am very pleased to be an original I thank the gentleman from Cali- ZANU and ZAPO leaders, they finally cosponsor of House Concurrent Resolu- fornia again, our chairman of our For- were able to break the stranglehold of tion 100, authored by the esteemed eign Affairs Committee, for intro- Ian Smith’s government. And edu- Chair of our Foreign Affairs Com- ducing this very important and timely cation was the order of the day, and mittee, the gentleman from California resolution. And I urge the full support the Zimbabweans went ahead to build a (Mr. LANTOS). And this resolution, of our House. country. Madam Speaker, condemns the Govern- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- But something happened in the ment of Zimbabwe for its latest assault ance of our time. meantime, and the move from multi- against political freedom and human Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I am partyism to single-party system, and rights in that country. delighted to yield 5 minutes to my Mr. Mugabe taking all of the power, Once hailed by some as a liberator, good friend from New Jersey, chairman that was a move in the wrong direc- President Mugabe of Zimbabwe has of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee tion. And so we have seen multi- been exposed as a tyrant and a thug. on Africa and Global Health, Mr. partyism come back again. But this Under his authoritarian rule, PAYNE. brutal behavior of the security forces Zimbabwe boasts the highest rate of in- (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given must end. flation in the world, currently standing permission to revise and extend his re- In conclusion, I think that we should at an estimated 3,000 percent. Formal marks.) take a look at the Lancaster House Ac- sector unemployment stands at 80 per- Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise cords because this was an agreement cent. Literacy rates are declining, and to speak in support of H. Con. Res. 100, between Zimbabwe and Great Britain life expectancy has plummeted to 38 and commend Mr. LANTOS and the where there would be willing seller- years. Thirty-eight years is the life ex- ranking member for this H. Con. Res. willing buyer purchase of the land that pectancy in that country. 100, condemning the violence and the was in the hands of the very small mi- Large scale commercial farming has violent action taken against the peace- nority of the white Rhodesians. been effectively destroyed by a disas- ful opposition party activists and mem- trous land reform program which ulti- bers of civil society in Zimbabwe just a b 1445 mately displaced poor black farmers in few months ago, last month in March. And there has to be a program of favor of political cronies, and acute Zimbabwe has faced a number of po- some land distribution. However, the food shortages which have since left litical and economic challenges over way that Mr. Mugabe has been doing it, Zimbabweans dependent on inter- the past 7 years. Every time I begin to as Mr. LANTOS mentioned, in the past national food aid. believe that the situation in Zimbabwe there was an attempt to assist The very same party that emerged has calmed down, something happens Zimbabwe to see if we could help in from a hard-fought struggle for major- which reminds me of how volatile the that process, but we were denied. ity rule, shouting slogans of equality situation really is. So I just ask my colleagues if they and justice, has now taken to arrest- The March 11 crackdown on people would support this resolution, and, ing, to beating and to intimidating who were gathering at a prayer meet- hopefully, Mr. Mugabe and the people anyone who dares to challenge its poli- ing was a disturbing display of vio- of Zimbabwe will finally see the light. cies. lence. Two people were killed. The Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- It is clear that, absent meaningful leader of the Movement for Democratic er, I am pleased to yield such time as corrective measures, Mugabe’s legacy Change, Morgan Tsvangari, and other he may consume to the former Chair of will be defined by his responsibility for members of the MDC were tortured the Africa Subcommittee, now the the ruinous policies and draconian laws while in police custody. ranking member, Mr. SMITH of New that have brought untold suffering to Two women were beaten so severely Jersey. his people and the near collapse of they needed specialized medical care Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Madam Zimbabwe as a nation. that was only available in South Afri- Speaker, I thank my good friend and Rather than address the underlying ca. One of them, Sekai Holland, had colleague for yielding. inequities that have driven Zimbabwe her leg broken in three places, her knee I rise in very strong support of H. to economic and political ruin, Mugabe broken and her arm and three ribs bro- Con. Res. 100. I want to thank Chair- prefers to engage in soapbox dema- ken. I cannot understand what pos- man LANTOS for sponsoring it. I think goguery and espouse conspiracy theo- sessed security forces to beat a 64-year- it sends a very clear and nonambiguous ries of Western imperialism. old woman so brutally. message to all parties, including the He interferes with the work of non- And according to the people in barbaric Mugabe regime. governmental organizations that are Zimbabwe, abductions and killings Madam Speaker, 2 years ago almost attempting to aid Zimbabweans in continue. However, there are encour- to this date, April 21, I chaired a hear- need. He harasses, he threatens foreign aging developments. What is most ening of the House Subcommittee on Af- diplomats, and he even revokes the couraging is that the regional leaders rica, Global Human Rights and Inter- visas of congressional staffers from our in Southern Africa have spoken out national Operations entitled Foreign Affairs Committee attempting publicly. As recently mentioned, the ‘‘Zimbabwe: Prospects for Democracy to travel to the region to get a clear President of Zambia has likened after the March, 2005, Elections.’’ At understanding of what is happening in Zimbabwe to the Titanic, a sinking that time, I noted that ‘‘Robert Zimbabwe. ship. Officials at the South African De- Mugabe was a hero to his people and to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.049 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3429 his fellow Africans for successfully political refugees from Zimbabwe into SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS. standing up to racism and oppression. other SADC countries not bad for the (a) FINDINGS.—Congress makes the fol- More than two decades later, however, region? And what does the continued lowing findings: he has so tarnished his image that it coddling of Mugabe say about the (1) Substantive changes to the Congres- must now resemble the fictional por- SADC members’ commitment to a sional Charter of The American National trait of Dorian Gray, showing an in- ‘‘new vision’’ of responsible governance Red Cross have not been made since 1947. creasingly repugnant picture of a hero under the New Economic Partnership (2) In February 2006, the board of governors who has gone astray.’’ for Africa Development, which was of The American National Red Cross (the During the Mugabe reign, approxi- championed by South Africa? ‘‘Board of Governors’’) commissioned an independent review and analysis of the Board mately 2.4 million people have been lit- Madam Speaker, the Mugabe govern- of Governors’ role, composition, size, rela- erally thrown out of their homes, and ment has used every means of suppres- tionship with management, governance rela- their homes have been bulldozed. There sion, every tool that they could mus- tionship with chartered units of The Amer- have been a number of killings and po- ter, to crush those who disagree with ican National Red Cross, and whistleblower litically motivated kidnappings and that regime. and audit functions. torture. The government has relied on I urge the passage of this resolution (3) In an October 2006 report of the Board of repressive laws to suppress freedom of in order to send an urgent message to Governors, entitled ‘‘American Red Cross speech, press, assembly, movement, as- SADC and to the rest of the inter- Governance for the 21st Century’’ (the ‘‘Gov- sociation, and academic freedom. The national community to do everything ernance Report’’), the Board of Governors Zimbabwean people have suffered necessary to resolve this crisis cur- recommended changes to the Congressional greatly as a result of the government’s rently crippling Zimbabwe and provide Charter, bylaws, and other governing documents of The American National Red Cross extremely misguided economic poli- any and all assistance that the to modernize and enhance the effectiveness cies, and many have died from prevent- Zimbabwean people so desperately need of the Board of Governors and governance able diseases. The U.S. Department of to achieve democratic reform, peace, structure of The American National Red State concluded in its Country Reports and economic prosperity. Cross. on Human Rights Practices for 2006 Again, I thank the author, Mr. LAN- (4) It is in the national interest to create a that Zimbabwe and its government TOS, and the ranking member for bring- more efficient governance structure of The have ‘‘engaged in pervasive and sys- ing to the floor this timely and ex- American National Red Cross and to enhance tematic abuse of human rights.’’ tremely important piece of legislation. the Board of Governors’ ability to support Unfortunately, the situation has only Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- the critical mission of The American Na- worsened in 2007. The world community er, I yield back the balance of my time. tional Red Cross in the 21st century. (5) It is in the national interest to clarify was shocked by the photos of beaten Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I have the role of the Board of Governors as a gov- members of the political opposition no further requests for time, and I ernance and strategic oversight board and who gathered on March 11 for a peace- yield back the balance of my time for The American National Red Cross to ful prayer meeting. Mugabe has contin- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The amend its bylaws, consistent with the rec- ued to crack down on any political op- question is on the motion offered by ommendations described in the Governance position and even threatened foreign the gentleman from California (Mr. Report, to clarify the role of the Board of diplomats who offered food and water LANTOS) that the House suspend the Governors and to outline the areas of its re- to jailed opposition leaders. rules and agree to the concurrent reso- sponsibility, including— It is essential that the entire inter- lution, H. Con. Res. 100, as amended. (A) reviewing and approving the mission national community raise its voice in The question was taken. statement for The American National Red support of those seeking democratic re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the Cross; (B) approving and overseeing the corpora- forms in Zimbabwe. Among other opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being measures, this resolution calls upon tion’s strategic plan and maintaining strain the affirmative, the ayes have it. tegic oversight of operational matters; the Southern African Development Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, on (C) selecting, evaluating, and determining Community, or SADC, and the African that I demand the yeas and nays. the level of compensation of the corpora- Union to consult urgently with all The yeas and nays were ordered. tion’s chief executive officer; Zimbabwe stakeholders to intervene The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (D) evaluating the performance and estab- with the Government of Zimbabwe ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the lishing the compensation of the senior lead- while applying appropriate pressures to Chair’s prior announcement, further ership team and providing for management resolve the economic and political cri- proceedings on this question will be succession; sis. postponed. (E) overseeing the financial reporting and audit process, internal controls, and legal I must express my deep disappoint- f ment that SADC has failed to take de- compliance; cisive action with regard to Zimbabwe. THE AMERICAN NATIONAL RED (F) holding management accountable for performance; Following consultations in Zimbabwe CROSS GOVERNANCE MOD- ERNIZATION ACT OF 2007 (G) providing oversight of the financial earlier this month, the executive direc- stability of the corporation; tor of SADC stated, ‘‘What’s good for Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I (H) ensuring the inclusiveness and diver- Zimbabwe is good for the region. move to suspend the rules and pass the sity of the corporation; What’s bad for Zimbabwe is bad for the bill (H.R. 1681) to amend the Congres- (I) ensuring the chapters of the corporation region. I think it’s time we did less sional Charter of The American Na- are geographically and regionally diverse; talk and do the work.’’ On that point, tional Red Cross to modernize its gov- (J) providing oversight of the protection of I could not agree more. ernance structure, to enhance the abil- the brand of the corporation; and (K) assisting with fundraising on behalf of Unfortunately, rather than getting to ity of the board of governors of The work and pressing Mugabe to under- the corporation. American National Red Cross to sup- (6)(A) The selection of members of the take meaningful reforms and halt his port the critical mission of The Amer- Board of Governors is a critical component latest assault on human beings, on po- ican National Red Cross in the 21st of effective governance for The American litical and human rights, this state- century, and for other purposes, as National Red Cross, and, as such, it is in the ment was followed by a plea of support amended. national interest that The American Na- for the Mugabe regime by the Inter- The Clerk read the title of the bill. tional Red Cross amend its bylaws to provide national Monetary Fund. The text of the bill is as follows: a method of selection consistent with that described in the Governance Report. Is the complete retraction of polit- H.R. 1681 ical and human rights and the beating (B) The new method of selection should re- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- to death of innocent civilians not bad place the current process by which— resentatives of the United States of America in (i) 30 chartered unit-elected members of for Zimbabwe? Are Mugabe’s disastrous Congress assembled, the Board of Governors are selected by a economic policies, which have resulted SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. non-Board committee which includes 2 mem- in inflation rates of up to 3,000 percent, This Act may be cited as ‘‘The American bers of the Board of Governors and other in- unemployment rates of 80 percent, and National Red Cross Governance Moderniza- dividuals elected by the chartered units the flight of thousands of economic and tion Act of 2007’’. themselves;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.069 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3430 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 (ii) 12 at-large members of the Board of tions with local, community, and faith-based duties and responsibilities as may be pro- Governors are nominated by a Board com- non-profit organizations, including those or- vided in the bylaws or a resolution of the mittee and elected by the Board of Gov- ganizations that work within minority com- board of governors. ernors; and munities. ‘‘(B) OTHER MEMBERS.— (iii) 8 members of the Board of Governors SEC. 3. ORGANIZATION. ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Members of the board of are appointed by the President of the United Section 300101 of title 36, United States governors other than the chairman shall be States. Code, is amended— elected at the annual meeting of the corpora- (C) The new method of selection described (1) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘a Feder- tion in accordance with such procedures as in the Governance Report reflects the single ally chartered instrumentality of the United may be provided in the bylaws. category of members of the Board of Gov- States and’’ before ‘‘a body corporate and ‘‘(ii) VACANCIES.—Vacancies in any such ernors that will result from the implementa- politic’’; and elected board position and in any newly cretion of this Act: (2) in subsection (b), by inserting at the ated board position may be filled by a vote of (i) All Board members (except for the end the following new sentence: ‘‘The cor- the remaining members of the board of gov- chairman of the Board of Governors) would poration may conduct its business and af- ernors in accordance with such procedures as be nominated by a single committee of the fairs, and otherwise hold itself out, as the may be provided in the bylaws. ‘‘(b) TERMS OF OFFICE.— Board of Governors taking into account the ‘American Red Cross’ in any jurisdiction.’’. criteria outlined in the Governance Report ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The term of office of to assure the expertise, skills, and experi- SEC. 4. PURPOSES. each member of the board of governors shall ence of a governing board. Section 300102 of title 36, United States be 3 years, except that— (ii) The nominated members would be con- Code, is amended— ‘‘(A) the board of governors may provide sidered for approval by the full Board of Gov- (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of para- under the bylaws that the terms of office of ernors and then submitted to The American graph (3); members of the board of governors elected to National Red Cross annual meeting of dele- (2) by striking the period at the end of the board of governors before March 31, 2012, gates for election, in keeping with the stand- paragraph (4) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and may be less than 3 years in order to imple- ard corporate practice whereby shareholders (3) by adding at the end the following para- ment the provisions of subparagraphs (A) of a corporation elect members of a board of graph: and (B) of subsection (a)(2); and directors at its annual meeting. ‘‘(5) to conduct other activities consistent ‘‘(B) any member of the board of governors (7) The United States Supreme Court held with the foregoing purposes.’’. elected by the board to fill a vacancy in a The American National Red Cross to be an SEC. 5. MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTERS. board position arising before the expiration instrumentality of the United States, and it Section 300103 of title 36, United States of its term may, as determined by the board, is in the national interest that the Congres- Code, is amended— serve for the remainder of that term or until sional Charter confirm that status and that (1) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘, or as the next annual meeting of the corporation. any changes to the Congressional Charter do otherwise provided,’’ before ‘‘in the bylaws’’; ‘‘(2) STAGGERED TERMS.—The terms of of- not affect the rights and obligations of The (2) in subsection (b)(1)— fice of members of the board of governors American National Red Cross to carry out (A) by striking ‘‘board of governors’’ and (other than the chairman) shall be staggered its purposes. inserting ‘‘corporation’’; and such that, by March 31, 2012, and thereafter, (8) Given the role of The American Na- (B) by inserting ‘‘policies and’’ before ‘‘reg- 1⁄3 of the entire board (or as near to 1⁄3 as tional Red Cross in carrying out its services, ulations related’’; and practicable) shall be elected at each succes- programs, and activities, and meeting its (3) in subsection (b)(2)— sive annual meeting of the corporation with various obligations, the effectiveness of The (A) by inserting ‘‘policies and’’ before ‘‘reg- the term of office of each member of the American National Red Cross will be pro- ulations shall require’’; and board of governors elected at an annual moted by the creation of an organizational (B) by striking ‘‘national convention’’ and meeting expiring at the third annual meet- ombudsman who— inserting ‘‘annual meeting’’. ing following the annual meeting at which (A) will be a neutral or impartial dispute SEC. 6. BOARD OF GOVERNORS. such member was elected. resolution practitioner whose major function Section 300104 of title 36, United States ‘‘(3) TERM LIMITS.—No person may serve as will be to provide confidential and informal Code, is amended to read as follows: a member of the board of governors for more assistance to the many internal and external than such number of terms of office or years stakeholders of The American National Red ‘‘§ 300104. Board of governors as may be provided in the bylaws. Cross; ‘‘(a) BOARD OF GOVERNORS.— ‘‘(c) COMMITTEES AND OFFICERS.—The (B) will report to the chief executive offi- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The board of governors is board— cer and the audit committee of the Board of the governing body of the corporation with ‘‘(1) may appoint, from its own members, Governors; and all powers of governing and directing, and of an executive committee to exercise such (C) will have access to anyone and any doc- overseeing the management of the business powers of the board when the board is not in uments in The American National Red Cross. and affairs of, the corporation. session as may be provided in the bylaws; (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of ‘‘(2) NUMBER.—The board of governors shall ‘‘(2) may appoint such other committees or Congress that— fix by resolution, from time to time, the advisory councils with such powers as may (1) charitable organizations are an indis- number of members constituting the entire be provided in the bylaws or a resolution of pensable part of American society, but these board of governors, provided that— the board of governors; organizations can only fulfill their impor- ‘‘(A) as of March 31, 2009, and thereafter, ‘‘(3) shall appoint such officers of the cor- tant roles by maintaining the trust of the there shall be no fewer than 12 and no more poration, including a chief executive officer, American public; than 25 members; and with such duties, responsibilities, and terms (2) trust is fostered by effective governance ‘‘(B) as of March 31, 2012, and thereafter, of office as may be provided in the bylaws or and transparency, which are the principal there shall be no fewer than 12 and no more a resolution of the board of governors; and goals of the recommendations of the Board than 20 members constituting the entire ‘‘(4) may remove members of the board of of Governors in the Governance Report and board. governors (other than the chairman), offi- this Act; Procedures to implement the preceding sen- cers, and employees under such procedures (3) Federal and State action play an impor- tence shall be provided in the bylaws. as may be provided in the bylaws or a resolu- tant role in ensuring effective governance ‘‘(3) APPOINTMENT.—The governors shall be tion of the board of governors. and transparency by setting standards, root- appointed or elected in the following man- ‘‘(d) ADVISORY COUNCIL.— ing out violations, and informing the public; ner: ‘‘(1) ESTABLISHMENT.—There shall be an ad- (4) while The American National Red Cross ‘‘(A) CHAIRMAN.— visory council to the board of governors. is and will remain a Federally chartered in- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The board of governors, ‘‘(2) MEMBERSHIP; APPOINTMENT BY PRESI- strumentality of the United States, and it in accordance with procedures provided in DENT.— has the rights and obligations consistent the bylaws, shall recommend to the Presi- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The advisory council with that status, The American National dent an individual to serve as chairman of shall be composed of no fewer than 8 and no Red Cross nevertheless should maintain ap- the board of governors. If such recommenda- more than 10 members, each of whom shall propriate communications with State regu- tion is approved by the President, the Presi- be appointed by the President from principal lators of charitable organizations and should dent shall appoint such individual to serve as officers of the executive departments and cooperate with them as appropriate in spe- chairman of the board of governors. senior officers of the Armed Forces whose cific matters as they arise from time to ‘‘(ii) VACANCIES.—Vacancies in the office of positions and interests qualify them to con- time; and the chairman, including vacancies resulting tribute to carrying out the programs and (5) while The American National Red Cross from the resignation, death, or removal by purposes of the corporation. is and will remain a Federally chartered in- the President of the chairman, shall be filled ‘‘(B) MEMBERS FROM THE ARMED FORCES.— strumentality of the United States, and it in the same manner described in clause (i). At least 1, but not more than 3, of the mem- has the rights and obligations consistent ‘‘(iii) DUTIES.—The chairman shall be a bers of the advisory council shall be selected with that status, The American National member of the board of governors and, when from the Armed Forces. Red Cross nevertheless should maintain ap- present, shall preside at meetings of the ‘‘(3) DUTIES.—The advisory council shall propriate communications and collabora- board of governors and shall have such other advise, report directly to, and meet, at least

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.014 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3431 1 time per year with the board of governors, lations served by the chapters, and such ‘‘300111. Authority of the Comptroller Gen- and shall have such name, functions and be other factors as may be determined by the eral of the United States. subject to such procedures as may be pro- board. ‘‘300112. Office of the Ombudsman. vided in the bylaws. ‘‘(B) PERIODIC REVIEW.—The board of gov- ‘‘300113. Reservation of right to amend or re- ‘‘(e) ACTION WITHOUT MEETING.—Any ac- ernors shall review the allocation of votes at peal.’’. tion required or permitted to be taken at least every 5 years.’’. any meeting of the board of governors or of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- SEC. 9. ENDOWMENT FUND. ant to the rule, the gentleman from any committee thereof may be taken with- Section 300109 of title 36, United States out a meeting if all members of the board or Code is amended— California (Mr. LANTOS) and the gentle- committee, as the case may be, consent (1) by striking ‘‘nine’’ from the first sen- woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- thereto in writing, or by electronic trans- tence thereof; and LEHTINEN) each will control 20 minutes. mission and the writing or writings or elec- (2) by striking the second sentence and in- The Chair recognizes the gentleman tronic transmission or transmissions are serting the following: ‘‘The corporation shall from California. filed with the minutes of proceedings of the prescribe policies and regulations on terms GENERAL LEAVE board or committee. Such filing shall be in and tenure of office, accountability, and ex- paper form if the minutes are maintained in penses of the board of trustees.’’. Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I ask paper form and shall be in electronic form if SEC. 10. ANNUAL REPORT AND AUDIT. unanimous consent that all Members the minutes are maintained in electronic Subsection (a) of section 300110 of title 36, may have 5 legislative days to revise form. United States Code, is amended to read as and extend their remarks and include ‘‘(f) VOTING BY PROXY.— follows: ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Voting by proxy is not extraneous material on the bill under ‘‘(a) SUBMISSION OF REPORT.—As soon as allowed at any meeting of the board, at the consideration. practicable after the end of the corporation’s annual meeting, or at any meeting of a chap- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there fiscal year, which may be changed from time ter. to time by the board of governors, the cor- objection to the request of the gen- ‘‘(2) EXCEPTION.—The board may allow the poration shall submit a report to the Sec- tleman from California? election of governors by proxy during any retary of Defense on the activities of the cor- There was no objection. emergency. poration during such fiscal year, including a ‘‘(g) BYLAWS.— Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I complete, itemized report of all receipts and ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The board of governors yield myself such time as I may con- may— expenditures.’’. sume. ‘‘(A) at any time adopt bylaws; and SEC. 11. COMPTROLLER GENERAL OF THE I rise in strong support of this legis- ‘‘(B) at any time adopt bylaws to be effec- UNITED STATES AND OFFICE OF THE OMBUDSMAN. lation. Wherever disaster strikes, the tive only in an emergency. (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 3001 of title 36, American Red Cross is on the scene to ‘‘(2) EMERGENCY BYLAWS.—Any bylaws United States Code, is amended by redesig- lend a helping hand in any immediate adopted pursuant to paragraph (1)(B) may nating section 300111 as section 300113 and by aftermath. In times of crisis, its staff provide special procedures necessary for inserting after section 300110 the following managing the corporation during the emer- of 35,000 and over 1 million Red Cross new sections: gency. All provisions of the regular bylaws volunteers take on the daunting task consistent with the emergency bylaws re- ‘‘§ 300111. Authority of the Comptroller Gen- of translating the compassion of the main effective during the emergency. eral of the United States American people into shelter, clothing, ‘‘(h) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- ‘‘The Comptroller General of the United medical help, and food. Be it a fire that tion— States is authorized to review the corpora- puts a family out of its home or a tor- ‘‘(1) the term ‘entire board’ means the tion’s involvement in any Federal program nado that tears through an entire com- total number of members of the board of gov- or activity the Government carries out ernors that the corporation would have if under law. munity, the Red Cross responds immediately, answering the call of an aston- there were no vacancies; and ‘‘§ 300112. Office of the Ombudsman ‘‘(2) the term ‘emergency’ shall have such ishing 75,000 incidents last year alone. ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The corporation meaning as may be provided in the bylaws.’’. The relief work of the Red Cross is shall establish an Office of the Ombudsman SEC. 7. POWERS. with such duties and responsibilities as may not limited to our borders. The Red Subsection (a)(1) of section 300105 of title be provided in the bylaws or a resolution of Cross responds to tsunamis and earth- 36, United States Code, is amended by strik- the board of governors. quakes and other natural disasters ing ‘‘bylaws’’ and inserting ‘‘policies’’. ‘‘(b) REPORT.— across the globe, providing much-need- SEC. 8. ANNUAL MEETING. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Office of the Om- ed assistance to victims. Earlier this Section 300107 of title 36, United States budsman shall submit annually to the appro- month, the Red Cross quickly mobi- Code, is amended to read as follows: priate Congressional committees a report lized to provide the Solomon Islands ‘‘§ 300107. Annual meeting concerning any trends and systemic matters with safe drinking water, medical care, that the Office of the Ombudsman has identi- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The annual meeting of and emergency shelter after that coun- the corporation is the annual meeting of del- fied as confronting the corporation. egates of the chapters. ‘‘(2) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- try was hit with a tsunami. ‘‘(b) TIME OF MEETING.—The annual meet- TEES.—For purposes of paragraph (1), the ap- But the American Red Cross, Madam ing shall be held as determined by the board propriate Congressional committees are the Speaker, like so many disaster relief of governors. following committees of Congress: organizations, has come under height- ‘‘(c) PLACE OF MEETING.—The board of gov- ‘‘(A) SENATE COMMITTEES.—The appropriate ened scrutiny after 9/11 and the gulf ernors is authorized to determine that the Congressional committees of the Senate coast hurricanes of 2005. Particularly, are— annual meeting shall not be held at any the disaster that New Orleans and the place, but may instead be held solely by ‘‘(i) the Committee on Finance; means of remote communication subject to ‘‘(ii) the Committee on Foreign Relations; gulf coast suffered and the response to such procedures as are provided in the by- ‘‘(iii) the Committee on Health, Education, it crystallized the need for reform of laws. Labor, and Pensions; this venerable organization, which had ‘‘(d) VOTING.— ‘‘(iv) the Committee on Homeland Security not changed its governance structure ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In matters requiring a and Governmental Affairs; and in over half a century. The leadership vote at the annual meeting, each chapter is ‘‘(v) the Committee on the Judiciary. of the American Red Cross undertook a entitled to at least 1 vote, and voting on all ‘‘(B) HOUSE COMMITTEES.—The appropriate 6-month, top-to-bottom comprehensive matters may be conducted by mail, tele- Congressional committees of the House of phone, telegram, cablegram, electronic mail, Representatives are— governance and performance audit. or any other means of electronic or tele- ‘‘(i) the Committee on Energy and Com- After over 100 interviews of past and phone transmission, provided that the person merce; present Red Cross officers, volunteer voting shall state, or submit information ‘‘(ii) the Committee on Foreign Affairs; chapter leaders, donors, and many oth- from which it can be determined, that the ‘‘(iii) the Committee on Homeland Secu- ers, the verdict was in: Red Cross gov- method of voting chosen was authorized by rity; ernance required a major overhaul. such person. ‘‘(iv) the Committee on the Judiciary; and Last October, Madam Speaker, the ‘‘(2) ESTABLISHMENT OF NUMBER OF VOTES.— ‘‘(v) the Committee on Ways and Means.’’. Red Cross board of governors unani- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The board of governors (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of shall determine on an equitable basis the sections for chapter 3001 of title 36, United mously approved a series of changes to number of votes that each chapter is entitled States Code, is amended by striking the item improve the governance and the ac- to cast, taking into consideration the size of relating to section 300111 and inserting the countability of the organization. But the membership of the chapters, the popu- following: such changes cannot be implemented

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.014 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3432 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 without amending the Red Cross char- the great job, the amazing efforts of Whereas about 61.2 million people volun- ter, and for that to occur, congres- Red Cross as an organization made up teered through or for an organization at sional action is needed. That is the rea- of volunteers, and in the way that they least once between September 2005 and Sep- son for our legislation. have responded to numerous hurricanes tember 2006, according to a recent survey by the United States Bureau of Labor Statis- Last month the other body acted in my State and tropical storms. And tics, and the proportion of people who volun- with urgency by passing the American so on behalf of the residents of my dis- teered was 26.7 percent, more than a quarter National Red Cross Organization Act. trict and my State, thank you to the of the total United States population; This House aims to act with similar ur- Red Cross and its many volunteers. Whereas the estimated dollar value of vol- gency as we consider this bill just 3 And it is precisely because of this, unteer time was $18.04 in 2005, according to weeks after it was introduced by my Madam Speaker, I applaud the Red the latest information provided by Inde- good friend, ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN of Cross for the hard work that it has pendent Sector, a nonpartisan leadership Florida, and myself. done to review its internal governance forum, and the coalition estimates the value of volunteer time for 2005 to be $280 billion; Madam Speaker, H.R. 1681 amends structures and proposed changes to its Whereas volunteers have contributed to the Red Cross charter in a number of charter that will make it an even the enhancement and improvement of com- significant ways. First, the board of stronger organization so they can help munities across the United States, especially governors will be reduced to 25 mem- more people that will reform the orga- with respect to the aftermath of the hurri- bers. Where previously some board nization and take it into its next cen- canes on the Gulf Coast; and members were selected by local chap- tury of service. Whereas National Volunteer Week will ters, some elected by the board, others I am pleased that the Red Cross was continue to build awareness of the role that appointed by the President, our legisla- willing to accept additional significant volunteers play in local, national, and international communities, and their commit- tion requires governors to be elected proposed changes that will provide ment and dedication to improving lives, solely by delegates to the Red Cross’ even more accountability and trans- strengthening communities, and fostering annual meeting. The responsibilities parency in the manner in which it will civic engagement through service and volun- for day-to-day operations will be dele- report its findings regarding audits and teering: Now, therefore, be it gated exclusively to the Red Cross investigations to the general public. Resolved, That the House of Representa- management rather than to the board. In the future, Madam Speaker, any- tives— Our legislation requires the Red Cross one will be able to log on to the Red (1) supports the goals and ideals high- to establish an office of ombudsman, Cross Web site and view the results of lighted through National Volunteer Week; (2) acknowledges the diligent efforts of our who will report to Congress, to raise its finding for audits and investiga- major federally funded community service the profile of the whistleblower process tions that are conducted by the om- and volunteer programs; for employees and volunteers and to budsman’s office. This act alone will (3) recognizes with gratitude the contribu- make improvements to it. provide even further assurances nec- tions of the millions of dedicated and caring Madam Speaker, while these changes essary for the American public to feel individuals who have chosen to serve others would not directly affect the organiza- confident that the Red Cross handles through volunteerism; and tion’s disaster response, it will help donations with the utmost care. (4) encourages all American people, of any promote the kind of leadership needed I urge my colleagues to unanimously age and background, to seek out opportunities to serve through volunteerism. to make Red Cross management and support H.R. 1681. And I thank the operations run smoothly and effec- chairman for his leadership on this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tively for the balance of this century. issue. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from New Hampshire (Ms. SHEA-PORTER) and b 1500 Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. I would like to express my apprecia- Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I PLATTS) each will control 20 minutes. tion to my friend and distinguished yield back the balance of my time. The Chair recognizes the gentle- colleague, the ranking member of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The woman from New Hampshire. Committee on Foreign Affairs, ILEANA question is on the motion offered by GENERAL LEAVE ROS-LEHTINEN, for cosponsoring this the gentleman from California (Mr. Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Madam Speak- legislation; and I want to thank her for LANTOS) that the House suspend the er, I request 5 legislative days during her commitment to ensuring that the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1681, as which Members may insert material American Red Cross remains account- amended. relevant to House Resolution 293 into able to the American people. The question was taken; and (two- the RECORD. I strongly support this legislation, thirds being in the affirmative) the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there and I urge all of my colleagues to do rules were suspended and the bill, as objection to the request of the gentle- the same. amended, was passed. woman from New Hampshire? Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- A motion to reconsider was laid on There was no objection. ance of my time. the table. Ms. SHEA-PORTER. I yield myself Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speak- such time as I may consume. er, I yield myself such time as I may f (Ms. SHEA-PORTER asked and was consume. SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND given permission to revise and extend Madam Speaker, as always, it is a de- IDEALS HIGHLIGHTED THROUGH her remarks.) light and a joy to work with our chair- NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK Ms. SHEA-PORTER. House Resolu- man, TOM LANTOS of California. And I Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Madam Speak- tion 293 is a bipartisan bill recognizing join him as an original co-sponsor of er, I move to suspend the rules and the important role of volunteers in The American Red Cross Governance agree to the resolution (H. Res. 293) local, national, and international com- Modernization Act of 2007. supporting the goals and ideals high- munities and their dedication to im- The American Red Cross, as Mr. LAN- lighted through National Volunteer proving lives, strengthening commu- TOS has pointed out, is an institution Week. nities, and fostering civic engagement with a unique status. It has been as- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- through service and volunteering. signed the responsibility by Congress tion. April 15–21, 2007 is recognized as Na- of fulfilling the obligations of the The text of the resolution is as fol- tional Volunteer Week. The theme is United States under the Geneva Con- lows: Inspire by Example, which reflects the vention for carrying out peacetime and power volunteers have to inspire the disaster relief functions. This obliga- H. RES. 293 people they help and to aspire others to tion has not been a small undertaking. Whereas National Volunteer Week will be serve. The Red Cross has been helping victims observed during the week of April 15 through Inspire by Example has been the 21, 2007; of war and natural disasters since its Whereas the National Volunteer Week theme throughout our history. We have founding in 1881. theme, ‘‘Inspire By Example’’, truly reflects 61 million volunteers out of a popu- As a Member of Congress from Flor- the power volunteers have to inspire the peo- lation of 300 million who volunteer ida’s 18th District, I am well aware of ple they help and to inspire others to serve; some time each day to serve others.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.053 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3433 From the very beginning of our time, running the school candy sales; their Last year, as has been said, more we have been committed to serving example of volunteerism for me and than a quarter of Americans dedicated each other. Benjamin Franklin started my four siblings helped to inspire my their time to bettering their commu- a volunteer fire department in a li- interest in public service and pursuit of nities, inspiring by example and im- brary and took care of those in the this very position I now hold. proving lives. community, as have others. Our country has seen the inspiring I am fortunate to represent a com- From the beginning, through war, example of our citizens’ willingness to munity in which passionate leadership through disaster and through famine, serve others in the wake of the ter- and dedicated citizens have enacted we have seen the greatest step forward rorist attacks of 9/11 and rebuilding ef- community service projects on every to serve our country. Who could forget forts along the gulf coast, and in re- scale throughout Louisville. Just dur- the service of the Greatest Generation sponse to countless other tragedies, ing our recent recess, I think a picture who came forward in so many ways as large and small, that touch lives every has been painted of what people are others went to war and we saw our own day. willing to give to others. On one morn- population step up to fulfill the roles in Community service isn’t just about ing I joined more than 3,000 volunteers our community and to each other? responding to disaster. It is also about of all ages as we embarked on a project What do these volunteers do each day lifting a hand to help a neighbor, to clean up across the communities in of the year? They teach others to read. teaching a child to read, restoring a ne- furthering the Operation Brightside They care for others who are ill. They glected park, and numerous other acts movement. In visiting schools, we saw work on the forefront for disaster. of good will that reaffirm our common parents and grandparents volunteering Right now, in my own State of New humanity. As cochair of the National their time to help kids. In hospital Hampshire, which has once again been Service Caucus here in the House with after hospital we saw people of all ages hit by flood waters, we have volunteers Representatives CHRIS SHAYS, DORIS helping our sick. And also in one of the who are out there serving our commu- MATSUI and DAVID PRICE, I am particu- most moving experiences during my re- nity. They serve to take care of babies larly interested in seeing the spirit of cess, two first grade classes at and young mothers. They serve to take volunteerism celebrated and extended Coleridge-Taylor Elementary had de- care of alcoholics and drug addicts and to as many Americans as possible. cided to help the troops in Iraq. They As this resolution says, more than a the most vulnerable in our commu- went out and collected 200 pounds of quarter of this country’s population nities, and they continue their service candy to send overseas. These were volunteered in some capacity from right through hospice and in senior set- sixth graders who saw the need to give September of 2005 to September of 2006 tings. So we have to thank our volun- of their time and energy to help others. at an estimated value or benefit to our teers and also recognize what moti- It was truly an inspirational moment. country of $280 billion. I certainly hope vates them and to encourage them. The great thing about volunteering is these numbers continue to grow. That is what this resolution does, to I also want to express my thanks to it is a way that you demonstrate your speak to them and to urge them to con- the thousands of organizations and citizenship. We talk a lot about patri- tinue their service. their leaders across the country that otism and citizenship in this body, but While we have had the greatest num- capture the spirit of our volunteers and nothing demonstrates citizenship more bers at all in the past year, 61.2 million bring that spirit to bear in a con- than your willingness to spend your volunteers, we have also had a slight centrated way to relieve suffering, pro- dear time to help others. drop. We have to make sure it is pos- vide opportunities to the needy, to I hope this week does not stand alone sible for volunteers to continue their clean up our communities, and bring in honoring our generous citizens and full-time lives of service in their own hope to millions. These organizations organizations. And I urge every citizen jobs and then also in their commu- and the public and private partners to join them in discovering the rewards nities. that support them provide needed in- that volunteering has to offer. Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- frastructure to support the energy of I urge my colleagues to support H. ance of my time. our community service providers. Res. 293. Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, I As this resolution states, National Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may con- Volunteer Week will continue to raise yield such time as he may consume to sume. awareness of the role that volunteers the gentleman from Connecticut, co- Madam Speaker, I rise today in play in local, national and inter- chair of the National Service Caucus strong support of House Resolution 293, national communities, and their com- (Mr. SHAYS). which supports the goals and ideals mitment to improving lives, strength- Mr. SHAYS. I thank my colleague highlighted through National Volun- ening communities and fostering civic from Pennsylvania. teer Week. engagement. Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- I would like to thank my colleague Again, I thank my colleague, Ms. port of H. Res. 293, supporting the goals from New Hampshire (Ms. SHEA-POR- SHEA-PORTER, and urge my colleagues and ideals of National Volunteer Week. TER) for introducing this legislation to support National Volunteer Week This week, we celebrate the millions and bringing it to the floor here today. and to support House Resolution 293. of volunteers from around the country As we have heard, National Volun- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- who give their time and energy to their teer Week has been celebrated since ance of my time. communities. 1974, when President Nixon signed an Ms. SHEA-PORTER. I now yield 5 National Volunteer Week’s theme, executive order establishing this an- minutes to the gentleman from Ken- ‘‘Inspire by Example,’’ says it all. Vol- nual celebration of volunteerism. tucky, JOHN YARMUTH. unteers set an example of selfless serv- As we now celebrate another Na- Mr. YARMUTH. I thank the gentle- ice in giving in support of our coun- tional Volunteer Week, we are re- woman. try’s most vulnerable residents, the minded that community service takes Madam Speaker, in a week when our homeless, hungry, elderly, at-risk place through efforts both large and hearts are heavy with the weight of youth, and disabled. Their work not small throughout our great country. yesterday’s tragedy at Virginia Tech only supports their communities, but This year’s Volunteer Week theme is and the anniversary of the shooting at encourages others to do the same. Inspire by Example, and countless indi- Columbine High School, it is important More than 61 million people volun- viduals of all backgrounds and ages in- that we also remember America’s tre- teered between September 2005 and spire others every day through their ef- mendous capacity for selfless acts of September 2006. The estimated value of forts to address the common concerns goodness. volunteer time given in 2005 is $280 bil- of our neighborhoods, communities, I refer to a spirit that sets aside su- lion. Nation, and world. And I know person- perficial desires in favor of the needs of This underscores the value of na- ally that it was the example of my par- our fellow human beings, a spirit that tional service. Our Federal national ents, Babs and Dutch Platts, volun- shows our Nation at its best, the spirit service programs give Americans of all teering in our community as a Sunday honored during this National Volun- ages the opportunity to serve in areas school teacher, a Little League coach, teer Week. of need around the country, recruiting

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.056 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3434 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 and managing volunteers. They help our volunteers, we feed our democratic (Ms. SHEA-PORTER) that the House sus- ensure the volunteer’s time is used ef- spirit and cultivate citizenship. Being pend the rules and agree to the resolu- fectively to provide the maximum ben- engaged in democracy through service, tion, H. Res. 293. efit to the organization and the people we bolster the best of what citizenship The question was taken. it serves. is about. The result will be more vi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the I still remember how I felt as a 14- brant communities and a stronger opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being year-old watching the 1960 Presidential America, cultivated through experi- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. election between Vice President Rich- ences that all people share regardless Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Madam Speak- ard Nixon and Senator John Kennedy. I of their background. No young Amer- er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. felt energized listening to Senator Ken- ican should be deprived of these oppor- The yeas and nays were ordered. nedy when he spoke of the Peace Corps tunities due to a lack of commitment The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and making the world a better and from Washington. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the safer place. I wanted to be part of his I ask for your support of H. Res. 293. Chair’s prior announcement, further vision. I wanted to give to the world Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, I urge proceedings on this question will be community. Years later that dream passage of H. Res. 293, and thank Ms. postponed. was fulfilled when my wife, Betsi, and SHEA-PORTER for her introduction of f I served 2 years in the Peace Corps. The this resolution, and hope that all of our TREATING CERTAIN COMMUNITIES same powerful emotions, the same fellow Americans will experience and AS METROPOLITAN CITIES FOR sense of energy and eagerness we felt in celebrate the spirit of volunteerism PURPOSES OF COMMUNITY DE- the 1960s is alive today and expressed throughout our country. VELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PRO- by those who give back to their com- Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. Madam GRAM munities. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. Today is a day to recognize the mil- 293 honoring volunteer service and thank Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. lions of Americans who volunteer and Representative SHEA-PORTER for introducing Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the express our sincere gratitude for their this bill. As Chairwoman of the Healthy Fami- rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1515) to service. lies and Communities Subcommittee, I wanted amend the Housing and Community I thank my colleague CAROL SHEA- to highlight this extremely important issue Development Act of 1974 to treat cer- PORTER, for introducing this resolu- which is why the first hearing the HFC Sub- tain communities as metropolitan cit- tion. committee held was on national service. This ies for purposes of the community de- Ms. SHEA-PORTER. I now yield 5 velopment block grant program. minutes to the gentleman from Mary- is a bipartisan issue, and I am looking forward to working with Ranking Member PLATTS to The Clerk read the title of the bill. land (Mr. SARBANES). move ahead on reauthorizing the service bill. The text of the bill is as follows: b 1515 National service has a distinguished and H.R. 1515 Mr. SARBANES. Madam Speaker, be- strong history in our Nation. Our roots in serv- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- fore I say anything else, I would like to ice extend back to the first pioneers, when resentatives of the United States of America in extend my deepest sympathies and colonists had to ban together to overcome the Congress assembled, prayers to the families and friends of challenges of surviving and adjusting to a new SECTION 1. METROPOLITAN CITIES. the victims of yesterday’s tragedy, and land. Paragraph (4) of section 102(a) of the Hous- Evidence shows that service and volun- ing and Community Development Act of 1974 to the entire Virginia Tech commu- (42 U.S.C. 5302) is amended by adding at the nity. teering lowers dropout rates among teens, end the following new sentence: ‘‘Notwith- I rise today in support of H. Res. 293 lowers crime rates in communities with high standing any other provision of this para- which recognizes the diligent efforts of rates of volunteerism, lowers costs associated graph, with respect to any fiscal year begin- federally funded and volunteer pro- with the aging population and improves the ning after the date of the enactment of this grams, and generally observes the role health and lowers the rates of depression sentence, the cities of Alton and Granite of volunteers in the life of our country. among the elderly. Volunteering is a cost ef- City, Illinois, shall be considered metropoli- When somebody volunteers to perform fective way of meeting our Nation’s social tan cities for purposes of this title.’’. a service, it is not only a service for needs both from the standpoint of the volun- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- other people, it is a service for them as teers and the people who benefit from the ant to the rule, the gentleman from well. services. Massachusetts (Mr. FRANK) and the Now more than ever, Americans need In my home state of New York, more than gentleman from Illinois (Mr. SHIMKUS) a restored sense of greatness and pur- 76,000 people of all ages and backgrounds each will control 20 minutes. pose. On the release of the Corporation are helping to meet local needs and strength- The Chair recognizes the gentleman for National and Community Service’s en communities. There are 239 national serv- from Massachusetts. report on volunteering in America, ice programs in New York alone. In my district Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. CEO David Eisner’s remarks poign- we have more than 1,300 service volunteers, Madam Speaker, I yield myself such antly address the importance of com- and we have almost 3,000 students age K–12 time as I may consume. munity and national service. He said, that participate in the Learn and Serve pro- Madam Speaker, this is a bipartisan ‘‘Service and volunteering aren’t just grams. bill that passed our committee unani- nice things to do, but are necessary I truly believe that expanding national serv- mously. It addresses a series of glitches parts of how our Nation deals with its ice, particularly to disadvantaged youth, is an which have resulted in the commu- challenges.’’ effective way to combat things like youth nities of Alton and Granite City, Illi- In the wake of tragedies such as Hur- gangs and violence, and the evidence bears nois, losing their status as entitlement ricane Katrina, hundreds of thousands that out. And it is critical that we begin teach- communities under the community de- of lives have been changed for the bet- ing about participation and service at an early velopment block grant program. ter because of the dedication and hard age. These are both cities that have done work of volunteers all across the coun- Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Con- a very good job of using these funds. try. But it is not enough. We can do gresswoman SHEA-PORTER for her hard work There is no reason why they should not much more. According to the Corpora- to in introducing this resolution. I urge my col- continue to be allowed to enjoy this. tion for National and Community Serv- leagues to support this important legislation. The events which led to this having ice, while there has been a significant Mr. PLATTS. Madam Speaker, I happened are complicated, and even increase in the number of volunteers yield back the balance of my time. more relevant, quite boring, so it does nationwide, one in three Americans Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Madam Speak- not seem to me that the House would dropped out of volunteering between er, I urge my colleagues to support H. much care about them. 2005 and 2006. Volunteer programs need Res. 293, and I yield back the balance of The relevant point is that there is a more than just willing and able volun- my time. unanimous view on the part of our teers, they need national support. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The committee, and this has been urged on By reinvigorating national and com- question is on the motion offered by us by the gentlemen from Illinois, Mr. munity service programs, and honoring the gentlewoman from New Hampshire SHIMKUS and Mr. COSTELLO, that we

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:49 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.063 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3435 should restore Alton and Granite City minimum population of 50,000, which neither (Rept. No. 110–96) on the resolution (H. to their rightful places as entitlement community meets. Res. 301) providing for consideration of cities, and I hope the House will do As a result, both communities lost entitle- the bill (H.R. 1257) to amend the Secu- that. ment status for purposes of the CDBG pro- rities Exchange Act of 1934 to provide I reserve the balance of my time. gram, while all other ‘‘central city’’ commu- shareholders with an advisory vote on Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I nities were grandfathered into the program. executive compensation, which was re- yield myself such time as I may con- HUD has determined that Alton & Grantie ferred to the House Calendar and or- sume. City are the only communities to have lost dered to be printed. Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- CDBG entitlement status in the Nation as a re- f port of this resolution that would result of the recent OMB changes in how coun- store the entitlement status to Alton ties are defined. PRIVILEGED REPORT ON RESOLU- and Granite City for consideration in As a result, Granite City and Alton are no TION PROVIDING FOR CONSIDER- the community development block longer part of an entitlement community. ATION OF H.R. 1361, RELIEF FOR grant program. At no time did the cities or the county be- ENTREPRENEURS: COORDINA- I want to thank my colleague and lieve that, by deferring their status in previous TION OF OBJECTIVES AND VAL- friend, Congressman COSTELLO, who years, they would be jeopardizing future fund- UES FOR EFFECTIVE RECOVERY will be following me, for his leadership ing. ACT OF 2007 on this. This is a snafu that happens in Madam Speaker, I again thank Chairman government, and we are glad to come Mr. ARCURI, from the Committee on BARNEY FRANK, Ranking Member BACHUS, and Rules, submitted a privileged report together, united, to attempt to fix this. Congressman SHIMKUS, for working together in The bottom line geographical issues (Rept. No. 110–97) on the resolution (H. a bipartisan manner to address this unique sit- Res. 302) providing for consideration of are that I am from Collinsville, Illi- uation. nois, in Madison County. I represent the bill (H.R. 1361) to improve the dis- Other information: aster relief programs of the Small half that county. Granite City and Both communities are older industrial cities Alton are actually in Madison County. Business Administration, and for other that have suffered from job losses and have purposes, which was referred to the Congressman COSTELLO represents higher than local, State and national unem- those communities ably and well. So House Calendar and ordered to be ployment levels. Both have had large employ- printed. we come together to try to fix this. ers, including steel mills in both cities, close. I want to thank the chairman of the Both have an older housing stock and lower f committee, who heard our concerns income residents. Additionally, both have a ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER and moved this expeditiously, along disproportionate share of public housing, in PRO TEMPORE with the ranking member, Mr. BACHUS, comparison to the balance of the region. and my good friend, JUDY BIGGERT, who Alton population: 30,500; Granite City popu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- helped in the process. lation: 31, 301. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings We look forward to a time when Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, I will resume on motions to suspend the Alton and Granite City can get in- yield back the balance of my time. rules previously postponed. volved in the process and make appli- Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. Votes will be taken in the following cations through the CDBG for the Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- order: needed infrastructure developments ance of my time. H.R. 1677, by the yeas and nays; that are available through that Federal The SPEAKER pro tempore. The H. Res. 196, by the yeas and nays; program. question is on the motion offered by H. Con. Res. 100, by the yeas and Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- the gentleman from Massachusetts nays; ance of my time. (Mr. FRANK) that the House suspend H. Res. 273, by the yeas and nays; Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1515. H. Con. Res. 76, by the yeas and nays. Madam Speaker, I yield such time as The question was taken; and (two- Proceedings on H. Res. 293 will re- he may consume to the prime author of thirds being in the affirmative) the sume tomorrow. this bill, who is a very vigorous advo- rules were suspended and the bill was The first electronic vote will be con- cate for one of the communities he rep- passed. ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining resents, the gentleman from Illinois A motion to reconsider was laid on electronic votes will be conducted as 5- (Mr. COSTELLO). the table. minute votes. Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman of the Financial f f Services Committee not only for yield- RECESS TAXPAYER PROTECTION ACT OF ing time to me, but for handling this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 2007 bill in a very quick fashion and getting ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair The SPEAKER pro tempore. The unit to the floor today. declares the House in recess subject to I think everything that needs to be finished business is the vote on the mo- the call of the Chair. tion to suspend the rules and pass the said about this legislation has been Accordingly (at 3 o’clock and 23 min- said by the chairman and my colleague bill, H.R. 1677, as amended, on which utes p.m.), the House stood in recess the yeas and nays were ordered. from Collinsville, Illinois. subject to the call of the Chair. I urge passage of this legislation. The Clerk read the title of the bill. H.R. 1515 would allow the cities of Alton f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and Granite City in Illinois to maintain principal b 1804 question is on the motion offered by city designation for entitlement purposes under the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. AFTER RECESS the Community Development Block Grant pro- LEWIS) that the House suspend the gram. The recess having expired, the House rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1677, as Alton and Granite City have been a part of was called to order by the Speaker pro amended. the Madison County CDBG program since its tempore (Mr. MEEKS of New York) at 6 This will be a 15-minute note. inception in 1975 for purposes of receiving o’clock and 4 minutes p.m. The vote was taken by electronic device, and there were—yeas 407, nays 7, grants as entitlement communities under the f CDBG program. not voting 19, as follows: In 1999, Alton and Granite City deferred PRIVILEGED REPORT ON RESOLU- [Roll No. 214] their entitlement status so Madison County TION PROVIDING FOR CONSIDER- YEAS—407 ATION OF H.R. 1257, SHARE- would not lose entitlement status as a county. Abercrombie Altmire Baker This agreement proved to be satisfactory HOLDER VOTE ON EXECUTIVE Ackerman Andrews Baldwin until the OMB changed definitions. OMB no COMPENSATION ACT Aderholt Arcuri Barrett (SC) Akin Baca Barrow longer recognizes the ‘‘central city’’ status. Mr. ARCURI, from the Committee on Alexander Bachus Bartlett (MD) The new ‘‘principal city’’ designation requires a Rules, submitted a privileged report Allen Baird Barton (TX)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.061 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3436 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Bean Engel Levin Rogers (KY) Shuler Udall (NM) Barrett (SC) Etheridge Lofgren, Zoe Becerra English (PA) Lewis (CA) Rohrabacher Shuster Upton Barrow Everett Lowey Berkley Eshoo Lewis (GA) Ros-Lehtinen Simpson Van Hollen Bartlett (MD) Fallin Lucas Berman Etheridge Lewis (KY) Roskam Sires Vela´ zquez Barton (TX) Farr Lungren, Daniel Berry Everett Linder Ross Skelton Visclosky Bean Feeney E. Biggert Fallin Lipinski Rothman Slaughter Walberg Becerra Filner Lynch Bilbray Farr LoBiondo Roybal-Allard Smith (NE) Walden (OR) Berkley Forbes Mack Bilirakis Feeney Loebsack Royce Smith (NJ) Walz (MN) Berman Fortenberry Mahoney (FL) Bishop (GA) Filner Lofgren, Zoe Ruppersberger Smith (TX) Wamp Berry Fossella Maloney (NY) Bishop (NY) Forbes Lowey Ryan (OH) Smith (WA) Wasserman Biggert Foxx Manzullo Bishop (UT) Fortenberry Lucas Ryan (WI) Snyder Schultz Bilbray Frank (MA) Marchant Salazar Solis Bilirakis Blumenauer Fossella Lungren, Daniel Waters Frelinghuysen Markey Sali Souder Bishop (GA) Gallegly Marshall Blunt Foxx E. Watson Sa´ nchez, Linda Space Bishop (NY) Garrett (NJ) Matheson Boehner Frank (MA) Lynch Watt T. Spratt Blackburn Gerlach Matsui Bonner Franks (AZ) Mack Waxman Sanchez, Loretta Stark Blumenauer Giffords McCarthy (CA) Bono Frelinghuysen Mahoney (FL) Weiner Sarbanes Stearns Blunt Gilchrest McCarthy (NY) Boozman Gallegly Maloney (NY) Welch (VT) Boren Garrett (NJ) Manzullo Saxton Stupak Boehner Gillibrand McCaul (TX) Schakowsky Sullivan Weldon (FL) Bonner Gillmor McCotter Boswell Gerlach Marchant Weller Boucher Giffords Markey Schiff Sutton Bono Gingrey McCrery Schmidt Tanner Wexler Boozman Gohmert McDermott Boustany Gilchrest Marshall Whitfield Matheson Schwartz Tauscher Boren Gonzalez McGovern Boyd (FL) Gillibrand Wicker Boyda (KS) Gillmor Matsui Scott (GA) Taylor Boswell Goodlatte McHenry Wilson (NM) Brady (TX) Gingrey McCarthy (CA) Scott (VA) Terry Boucher Gordon McHugh Wilson (OH) Braley (IA) Gohmert McCarthy (NY) Sensenbrenner Thompson (CA) Boustany Granger McIntyre Wilson (SC) Brown (SC) Gonzalez McCaul (TX) Serrano Thompson (MS) Boyd (FL) Graves McKeon Wolf Brown, Corrine Goode McCotter Sessions Thornberry Boyda (KS) Green, Al McMorris Woolsey Brown-Waite, Goodlatte McCrery Sestak Tiahrt Brady (TX) Green, Gene Rodgers Wu Ginny Gordon McDermott Shadegg Tiberi Braley (IA) Grijalva McNerney Wynn Buchanan Granger McGovern Shays Tierney Brown (SC) Gutierrez McNulty Yarmuth Burgess Graves McHugh Shea-Porter Towns Brown, Corrine Hall (NY) Meehan Sherman Turner Young (AK) Buchanan Hall (TX) Meek (FL) Burton (IN) Green, Al McIntyre Shimkus Udall (CO) Young (FL) Burgess Hare Meeks (NY) Butterfield Green, Gene McKeon Butterfield Harman Melancon Buyer Grijalva McMorris NAYS—7 Calvert Hastert Mica Calvert Gutierrez Rodgers Camp (MI) Hastings (FL) Michaud Camp (MI) Hall (NY) McNerney Bachmann McHenry Westmoreland Campbell (CA) Hastings (WA) Miller (FL) Campbell (CA) Hall (TX) McNulty Blackburn Paul Cantor Hayes Miller (MI) Cannon Hare Meehan Flake Tancredo Capito Heller Miller (NC) Cantor Harman Meek (FL) NOT VOTING—19 Capps Hensarling Miller, Gary Capito Hastert Meeks (NY) Capuano Herseth Sandlin Miller, George Capps Hastings (FL) Melancon Brady (PA) Hill Millender- Cardoza Hinchey Mitchell Capuano Mica Carnahan Hunter McDonald Hastings (WA) Carney Hinojosa Mollohan Michaud Carson Jindal Neal (MA) Cardoza Hayes Castle Hirono Moore (KS) Carter Kirk Poe Carney Heller Miller (FL) Castor Hobson Moore (WI) Fattah Lampson Rogers (MI) Castle Hensarling Miller (MI) Chabot Hodes Moran (KS) Castor Herger Miller (NC) Ferguson McCollum (MN) Rush Higgins Walsh (NY) Chandler Holden Moran (VA) Chabot Herseth Sandlin Miller, Gary Clarke Holt Murphy (CT) Chandler Hinchey Miller, George b 1831 Clay Honda Murphy, Patrick Clarke Hinojosa Mitchell Cleaver Hooley Murphy, Tim Clay Hirono Mollohan Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. GARY G. MIL- Clyburn Hoyer Murtha Cleaver Hobson Moore (KS) LER of California and Ms. SLAUGH- Coble Hulshof Musgrave Clyburn Hodes Moore (WI) Cohen Inglis (SC) Myrick Coble Hoekstra Moran (KS) TER changed their vote from ‘‘nay’’ to Cole (OK) Inslee Nadler Cohen Holden Moran (VA) ‘‘yea.’’ Conyers Israel Napolitano Cole (OK) Holt Murphy (CT) Cooper Issa Neugebauer Conaway Honda Murphy, Patrick So (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the Costa Jackson (IL) Nunes Conyers Hooley Murphy, Tim Costello Jackson-Lee Oberstar Cooper Hoyer Murtha bill, as amended, was passed. Courtney (TX) Obey Costa Hulshof Musgrave The result of the vote was announced Cramer Jefferson Olver Costello Inglis (SC) Myrick as above recorded. Crenshaw Johnson (GA) Ortiz Courtney Inslee Nadler Crowley Johnson (IL) Pallone Cramer Israel Napolitano A motion to reconsider was laid on Cubin Johnson, E. B. Pascrell Crenshaw Issa Neugebauer the table. Cuellar Jones (NC) Pastor Crowley Jackson (IL) Nunes Culberson Jones (OH) Payne Cubin Jackson-Lee Oberstar f Cummings Jordan Pearce Cuellar (TX) Obey Davis (AL) Kagen Pence Culberson Jefferson Olver SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND Davis (CA) Kanjorski Perlmutter Cummings Johnson (GA) Ortiz IDEALS OF WORLD WATER DAY Davis (IL) Kaptur Peterson (MN) Davis (AL) Johnson (IL) Pallone Davis (KY) Keller Peterson (PA) Davis (CA) Johnson, E. B. Pascrell The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Davis, David Kennedy Petri Davis (IL) Johnson, Sam Pastor finished business is the vote on the mo- Davis, Jo Ann Kildee Pickering Davis (KY) Jones (NC) Payne tion to suspend the rules and agree to Davis, Lincoln Kilpatrick Pitts Davis, David Jones (OH) Pearce Davis, Tom Kind Platts Davis, Jo Ann Jordan Pence the resolution, H. Res. 196, on which DeFazio King (IA) Pomeroy Davis, Lincoln Kagen Perlmutter the yeas and nays were ordered. DeGette King (NY) Porter Davis, Tom Kanjorski Peterson (MN) The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Delahunt Kingston Price (GA) Deal (GA) Kaptur Peterson (PA) DeLauro Kirk Price (NC) DeFazio Keller Petri tion. Dent Klein (FL) Pryce (OH) DeGette Kennedy Pickering The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Diaz-Balart, L. Kline (MN) Putnam Delahunt Kildee Pitts question is on the motion offered by Diaz-Balart, M. Knollenberg Radanovich DeLauro Kilpatrick Platts the gentleman from California (Mr. Dicks Kucinich Rahall Dent Kind Pomeroy Dingell Kuhl (NY) Ramstad Diaz-Balart, L. King (IA) Porter LANTOS) that the House suspend the Doggett LaHood Rangel Diaz-Balart, M. King (NY) Price (GA) rules and agree to the resolution, H. Donnelly Langevin Regula Dicks Kingston Price (NC) Res. 196. Doolittle Lantos Rehberg Dingell Klein (FL) Pryce (OH) Doyle Larsen (WA) Reichert Doggett Kline (MN) Putnam This will be a 5-minute vote. Drake Larson (CT) Renzi Donnelly Knollenberg Radanovich The vote was taken by electronic de- Dreier Latham Reyes Doolittle Kucinich Rahall vice, and there were—yeas 393, nays 22, Duncan LaTourette Reynolds Doyle Kuhl (NY) Ramstad not voting 18, as follows: Edwards Lee Rodriguez Drake LaHood Rangel Ehlers Levin Rogers (AL) Dreier Lamborn Regula [Roll No. 215] Ellison Lewis (CA) Rogers (KY) Duncan Langevin Rehberg YEAS—393 Ellsworth Lewis (GA) Rogers (MI) Edwards Lantos Reichert Emanuel Lewis (KY) Rohrabacher Ehlers Larsen (WA) Renzi Abercrombie Allen Bachmann Emerson Linder Ros-Lehtinen Ellison Larson (CT) Reyes Ackerman Altmire Bachus Engel Lipinski Roskam Ellsworth Latham Reynolds Aderholt Andrews Baird English (PA) LoBiondo Ross Emanuel LaTourette Rodriguez Akin Arcuri Baker Eshoo Loebsack Rothman Emerson Lee Rogers (AL) Alexander Baca Baldwin

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:10 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.021 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3437 Roybal-Allard Slaughter Upton [Roll No. 216] Pascrell Sa´ nchez, Linda Thompson (CA) Royce Smith (NE) Van Hollen Pastor T. Thompson (MS) Ruppersberger Smith (NJ) Vela´ zquez YEAS—414 Payne Sanchez, Loretta Thornberry Ryan (OH) Smith (TX) Visclosky Abercrombie Davis, Tom Jordan Pearce Sarbanes Tiahrt Ryan (WI) Smith (WA) Walden (OR) Ackerman Deal (GA) Kagen Pence Saxton Tiberi Salazar Snyder Walz (MN) Aderholt DeFazio Kanjorski Perlmutter Schakowsky Tierney Sa´ nchez, Linda Solis Peterson (MN) Schiff Wamp Akin DeGette Kaptur Towns T. Souder Peterson (PA) Schmidt Wasserman Alexander Delahunt Keller Turner Sanchez, Loretta Space Petri Schwartz Schultz Allen DeLauro Kennedy Udall (CO) Sarbanes Spratt Pickering Scott (GA) Watson Altmire Dent Kildee Udall (NM) Saxton Stark Pitts Scott (VA) Watt Andrews Diaz-Balart, L. Kind Upton Schakowsky Stearns Platts Sensenbrenner Waxman Arcuri Diaz-Balart, M. King (IA) Van Hollen Schiff Stupak Poe Serrano Weiner Baca Dicks King (NY) Vela´ zquez Schmidt Sullivan Pomeroy Sessions Welch (VT) Bachmann Dingell Kingston Visclosky Schwartz Sutton Porter Sestak Weller Bachus Doggett Kirk Walberg Scott (GA) Tancredo Price (GA) Shadegg Baird Donnelly Klein (FL) Walden (OR) Scott (VA) Tanner Wexler Price (NC) Shays Walz (MN) Serrano Tauscher Whitfield Baker Doolittle Kline (MN) Pryce (OH) Shea-Porter Wamp Sessions Taylor Wicker Baldwin Doyle Knollenberg Putnam Sherman Wasserman Sestak Terry Wilson (NM) Barrett (SC) Drake Kucinich Radanovich Shimkus Schultz Shays Thompson (CA) Wilson (OH) Barrow Dreier Kuhl (NY) Rahall Shuler Waters Shea-Porter Thompson (MS) Wilson (SC) Bartlett (MD) Duncan LaHood Ramstad Shuster Sherman Tiahrt Wolf Barton (TX) Edwards Lamborn Rangel Simpson Watson Shimkus Tiberi Woolsey Bean Ehlers Langevin Regula Sires Watt Shuler Tierney Wu Becerra Ellison Lantos Rehberg Skelton Waxman Shuster Towns Wynn Berkley Ellsworth Larsen (WA) Reichert Slaughter Weiner Simpson Turner Yarmuth Berman Emanuel Larson (CT) Renzi Smith (NE) Welch (VT) Sires Udall (CO) Young (AK) Berry Emerson Latham Reyes Smith (NJ) Weldon (FL) Skelton Udall (NM) Young (FL) Biggert Engel LaTourette Reynolds Smith (TX) Weller Bilbray English (PA) Lee Rodriguez Smith (WA) Westmoreland NAYS—22 Bilirakis Eshoo Levin Rogers (AL) Snyder Wexler Bishop (UT) Goode Sensenbrenner Bishop (GA) Etheridge Lewis (CA) Rogers (KY) Solis Whitfield Burton (IN) Herger Shadegg Bishop (NY) Everett Lewis (GA) Rogers (MI) Souder Wicker Bishop (UT) Buyer Hoekstra Thornberry Fallin Lewis (KY) Rohrabacher Space Wilson (NM) Blackburn Farr Linder Carter Johnson, Sam Walberg Ros-Lehtinen Spratt Wilson (OH) Blumenauer Feeney Lipinski Conaway Lamborn Weldon (FL) Roskam Stark Wilson000000 (SC) Blunt Filner LoBiondo Deal (GA) Paul Westmoreland Ross Stearns Wolf Flake Poe Boehner Flake Loebsack Rothman Stupak Woolsey Franks (AZ) Sali Bonner Forbes Lofgren, Zoe Roybal-Allard Sullivan Wu Bono Fortenberry Lowey Royce Sutton Wynn NOT VOTING—18 Boozman Fossella Lucas Ruppersberger Tancredo Yarmuth Brady (PA) Ferguson Millender- Boren Foxx Lungren, Daniel Ryan (OH) Tanner Young (AK) Brown-Waite, Higgins McDonald Boswell Frank (MA) E. Ryan (WI) Tauscher Young (FL) Boucher Franks (AZ) Lynch Ginny Hill Neal (MA) Salazar Taylor Boustany Frelinghuysen Mack Cannon Hunter Rush Sali Terry Boyd (FL) Gallegly Mahoney (FL) Carnahan Jindal Walsh (NY) Boyda (KS) Garrett (NJ) Maloney (NY) ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—4 Carson Lampson Waters Fattah McCollum (MN) Brady (TX) Gerlach Manzullo Brown, Corrine Kilpatrick Braley (IA) Giffords Marchant Johnson, E. B. Paul ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Brown (SC) Gilchrest Markey The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Brown-Waite, Gillibrand Marshall NOT VOTING—15 the vote). Members are advised they Ginny Gillmor Matheson Brady (PA) Hunter Millender- Buchanan Gingrey Matsui Carson Jindal McDonald have 2 minutes to record their votes. Burgess Gohmert McCarthy (CA) Fattah Johnson, Sam Neal (MA) b 1841 Burton (IN) Gonzalez McCaul (TX) Ferguson Lampson Rush Butterfield Goode McCollum (MN) Higgins McCarthy (NY) Walsh (NY) Mr. CONAWAY changed his vote Buyer Goodlatte McCotter Hill Calvert Gordon McCrery from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Camp (MI) Granger McDermott Campbell (CA) Graves McGovern The SPEAKER pro tempore (during tive) the rules were suspended and the Cannon Green, Al McHenry the vote). Members are advised they resolution was agreed to. Cantor Green, Gene McHugh have 2 minutes to record their votes. The result of the vote was announced Capito Grijalva McIntyre as above recorded. Capps Gutierrez McKeon b 1852 A motion to reconsider was laid on Capuano Hall (NY) McMorris So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Cardoza Hall (TX) Rodgers the table. Carnahan Hare McNerney tive) the rules were suspended and the f Carney Harman McNulty concurrent resolution, as amended, was Carter Hastert Meehan agreed to. CONDEMNING RECENT VIOLENT Castle Hastings (FL) Meek (FL) The result of the vote was announced ACTIONS OF GOVERNMENT OF Castor Hastings (WA) Meeks (NY) as above recorded. ZIMBABWE AGAINST PEACEFUL Chabot Hayes Melancon A motion to reconsider was laid on Chandler Heller Mica OPPOSITION PARTY ACTIVISTS Clarke Hensarling Michaud the table. AND MEMBERS OF CIVIL SOCI- Clay Herger Miller (FL) f ETY Cleaver Herseth Sandlin Miller (MI) Clyburn Hinchey Miller (NC) SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Coble Hinojosa Miller, Gary IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY finished business is the vote on the mo- Cohen Hirono Miller, George MONTH tion to suspend the rules and agree to Cole (OK) Hobson Mitchell The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- the concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. Conaway Hodes Mollohan Conyers Hoekstra Moore (KS) finished business is the vote on the mo- 100, as amended, on which the yeas and Cooper Holden Moore (WI) tion to suspend the rules and agree to nays were ordered. Costa Holt Moran (KS) the resolution, H. Res. 273, on which The Clerk read the title of the con- Costello Honda Moran (VA) the yeas and nays were ordered. current resolution. Courtney Hooley Murphy (CT) Cramer Hoyer Murphy, Patrick The Clerk read the title of the resolu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Crenshaw Hulshof Murphy, Tim tion. question is on the motion offered by Crowley Inglis (SC) Murtha The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the gentleman from California (Mr. Cubin Inslee Musgrave question is on the motion offered by LANTOS) that the House suspend the Cuellar Israel Myrick Culberson Issa Nadler the gentlewoman from California (Ms. rules and agree to the concurrent reso- Cummings Jackson (IL) Napolitano WATSON) that the House suspend the lution, H. Con. Res. 100, as amended. Davis (AL) Jackson-Lee Neugebauer rules and agree to the resolution, H. This will be a 5-minute vote. Davis (CA) (TX) Nunes Res. 273. The vote was taken by electronic de- Davis (IL) Jefferson Oberstar This will be a 5-minute vote. vice, and there were—yeas 414, nays 0, Davis (KY) Johnson (GA) Obey The vote was taken by electronic de- Davis, David Johnson (IL) Olver answered ‘‘present’’ 4, not voting 15, as Davis, Jo Ann Jones (NC) Ortiz vice, and there were—yeas 414, nays 2, follows: Davis, Lincoln Jones (OH) Pallone not voting 17, as follows:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:10 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.019 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3438 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 [Roll No. 217] Pascrell Sali Taylor There was no objection. Pastor Sa´ nchez, Linda Terry YEAS—414 Payne T. Thompson (CA) Pearce Sanchez, Loretta Thompson (MS) f Abercrombie Davis, Lincoln Jordan Pence Sarbanes Thornberry Ackerman Davis, Tom Kagen Perlmutter Saxton Tiahrt Aderholt Deal (GA) Kanjorski Peterson (MN) Schakowsky Tiberi HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVER- Akin DeFazio Kaptur Peterson (PA) Schiff Tierney Alexander DeGette Keller SARY OF THE INTERNATIONAL Petri Schmidt Towns GEOPHYSICAL YEAR Allen Delahunt Kennedy Pickering Schwartz Turner Altmire DeLauro Kildee Pitts Scott (GA) Udall (CO) Andrews Dent Kilpatrick Platts Scott (VA) Udall (NM) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Arcuri Diaz-Balart, L. Kind Poe Sensenbrenner Upton finished business is the vote on the mo- Baca Diaz-Balart, M. King (IA) Pomeroy Serrano Van Hollen tion to suspend the rules and agree to Bachmann Dicks King (NY) Porter Sessions Vela´ zquez Bachus Dingell Kingston Price (GA) Sestak Visclosky the concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. Baird Doggett Kirk Price (NC) Shadegg Walberg 76, on which the yeas and nays were or- Baker Donnelly Klein (FL) Pryce (OH) Shays Walden (OR) Baldwin Doolittle Kline (MN) Putnam Shea-Porter Walz (MN) dered. Barrett (SC) Doyle Knollenberg Radanovich Sherman Wamp The Clerk read the title of the con- Barrow Drake Kucinich Rahall Shimkus Wasserman Bartlett (MD) Dreier Kuhl (NY) Ramstad Shuler Schultz current resolution. Barton (TX) Duncan LaHood Rangel Shuster Waters Bean Ehlers Lamborn Regula Simpson Watson The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Becerra Ellison Langevin Rehberg Sires Watt question is on the motion offered by Berkley Ellsworth Lantos Reichert Skelton Waxman the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. WILSON) Berman Emanuel Larsen (WA) Renzi Slaughter Weiner Berry Emerson Larson (CT) Reyes Smith (NE) Welch (VT) that the House suspend the rules and Biggert Engel Latham Reynolds Smith (NJ) Weldon (FL) agree to the concurrent resolution, H. Bilbray English (PA) LaTourette Rodriguez Smith (TX) Weller Bilirakis Eshoo Lee Rogers (AL) Smith (WA) Westmoreland Con. Res. 76. Bishop (GA) Etheridge Levin Rogers (KY) Snyder Wexler This will be a 5-minute vote. Bishop (NY) Everett Lewis (CA) Rogers (MI) Solis Whitfield Bishop (UT) Fallin Lewis (GA) Rohrabacher Souder Wicker The vote was taken by electronic de- Blackburn Farr Lewis (KY) Ros-Lehtinen Space Wilson (NM) vice, and there were—yeas 406, nays 0, Blumenauer Feeney Linder Roskam Spratt Wilson (OH) Blunt Filner Lipinski Ross Stark Wilson (SC) not voting 27, as follows: Boehner Forbes LoBiondo Rothman Stearns Wolf Bonner Fortenberry Loebsack Roybal-Allard Stupak Woolsey [Roll No. 218] Bono Fossella Lofgren, Zoe Royce Sullivan Wu Boozman Foxx Lowey Ruppersberger Sutton Wynn YEAS—406 Boren Frank (MA) Lucas Ryan (OH) Tancredo Yarmuth Abercrombie Capito Emanuel Boswell Franks (AZ) Lungren, Daniel Ryan (WI) Tanner Young (AK) Ackerman Capps Emerson Boucher Frelinghuysen E. Salazar Tauscher Young (FL) Aderholt Capuano Engel Boustany Gallegly Lynch Akin Cardoza English (PA) Boyd (FL) Garrett (NJ) Mack NAYS—2 Alexander Carnahan Eshoo Boyda (KS) Gerlach Mahoney (FL) Flake Paul Allen Carney Etheridge Brady (TX) Giffords Maloney (NY) Altmire Carter Everett Braley (IA) Gilchrest Manzullo NOT VOTING—17 Andrews Castle Fallin Brown (SC) Gillibrand Marchant Brady (PA) Hill McCrery Arcuri Castor Farr Brown, Corrine Gillmor Markey Carson Hunter Millender- Baca Chabot Feeney Brown-Waite, Gingrey Marshall Edwards Jindal McDonald Bachmann Chandler Filner Ginny Gohmert Matheson Fattah Johnson, Sam Neal (MA) Bachus Clarke Flake Buchanan Gonzalez Matsui Ferguson Lampson Rush Baird Clay Forbes Burgess Goode McCarthy (CA) Higgins McCarthy (NY) Walsh (NY) Burton (IN) Goodlatte McCaul (TX) Baker Cleaver Fortenberry Butterfield Gordon McCollum (MN) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Baldwin Clyburn Fossella Buyer Granger McCotter Barrett (SC) Coble Foxx The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Barrow Cohen Frank (MA) Calvert Graves McDermott the vote). Members are advised 2 min- Camp (MI) Green, Al McGovern Bartlett (MD) Cole (OK) Franks (AZ) Campbell (CA) Green, Gene McHenry utes remain in this vote. Barton (TX) Conaway Frelinghuysen Cannon Grijalva McHugh Bean Conyers Gallegly Cantor Gutierrez McIntyre b 1900 Becerra Cooper Garrett (NJ) Capito Hall (NY) McKeon So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Berkley Costa Gerlach Berman Courtney Giffords Capps Hall (TX) McMorris tive) the rules were suspended and the Capuano Hare Rodgers Berry Cramer Gilchrest Cardoza Harman McNerney resolution was agreed to. Biggert Crenshaw Gillibrand Carnahan Hastert McNulty The result of the vote was announced Bilbray Crowley Gillmor Carney Hastings (FL) Meehan as above recorded. Bilirakis Cubin Gingrey Carter Hastings (WA) Meek (FL) Bishop (GA) Cuellar Gohmert A motion to reconsider was laid on Bishop (NY) Culberson Gonzalez Castle Hayes Meeks (NY) the table. Castor Heller Melancon Bishop (UT) Cummings Goode Chabot Hensarling Mica f Blackburn Davis (AL) Goodlatte Chandler Herger Michaud Blumenauer Davis (CA) Gordon Clarke Herseth Sandlin Miller (FL) WELCOMING BACK THE HONOR- Blunt Davis (IL) Granger Clay Hinchey Miller (MI) ABLE JO ANN DAVIS OF VIR- Boehner Davis (KY) Graves Cleaver Hinojosa Miller (NC) GINIA Bonner Davis, David Green, Al Clyburn Hirono Miller, Gary Bono Davis, Jo Ann Green, Gene Coble Hobson Miller, George (Mr. WAMP asked and was given per- Boozman Davis, Lincoln Grijalva Cohen Hodes Mitchell mission to address the House for 1 Boren Davis, Tom Gutierrez Boswell Deal (GA) Hall (NY) Cole (OK) Hoekstra Mollohan minute.) Conaway Holden Moore (KS) Boucher DeFazio Hall (TX) Conyers Holt Moore (WI) Mr. WAMP. Mr. Speaker, I know this Boustany DeGette Hare Cooper Honda Moran (KS) is unusual, but God is good, and I just Boyd (FL) Delahunt Harman Costa Hooley Moran (VA) wanted her colleagues to welcome back Boyda (KS) DeLauro Hastert Brady (TX) Dent Hastings (FL) Costello Hoyer Murphy (CT) to the floor of this House the gentle- Courtney Hulshof Murphy, Patrick Braley (IA) Diaz-Balart, L. Hastings (WA) Cramer Inglis (SC) Murphy, Tim woman from Virginia (Mrs. JO ANN Brown (SC) Diaz-Balart, M. Hayes Crenshaw Inslee Murtha DAVIS). Brown, Corrine Dicks Heller Crowley Israel Musgrave Mr. Speaker, we’ll keep praying, and Brown-Waite, Dingell Hensarling Cubin Issa Myrick I yield back. Ginny Doggett Herger Cuellar Jackson (IL) Nadler Buchanan Donnelly Herseth Sandlin Culberson Jackson-Lee Napolitano f Burgess Doolittle Hinchey Cummings (TX) Neugebauer Burton (IN) Doyle Hinojosa Davis (AL) Jefferson Nunes ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Butterfield Drake Hirono Davis (CA) Johnson (GA) Oberstar PRO TEMPORE Buyer Dreier Hobson Calvert Duncan Hodes Davis (IL) Johnson (IL) Obey The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Davis (KY) Johnson, E. B. Olver Camp (MI) Ehlers Hoekstra Davis, David Jones (NC) Ortiz objection, 5-minute voting will con- Campbell (CA) Ellison Holden Davis, Jo Ann Jones (OH) Pallone tinue. Cannon Ellsworth Holt

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.030 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3439 Honda Melancon Scott (GA) b 1908 relentlessly prosecuting people in spite Hooley Mica Scott (VA) of the facts, all to grab a headline, Hoyer Michaud Sensenbrenner So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Hulshof Miller (FL) Serrano tive) the rules were suspended and the should be held personally liable in our Inglis (SC) Miller (MI) Sessions concurrent resolution was agreed to. courts and be accountable for their ac- Inslee Miller (NC) Sestak The result of the vote was announced tions by removal from office and per- Israel Miller, Gary Shadegg manent suspension from the practice of Issa Miller, George Shays as above recorded. Jackson (IL) Mitchell Shea-Porter A motion to reconsider was laid on law. There must be consequences for Jackson-Lee Mollohan Sherman the table. abuse of power. (TX) Moore (KS) Shimkus And that’s just the way it is. Jefferson Moore (WI) Stated for: Shuler f Johnson (GA) Moran (KS) Shuster Mr. MURPHY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, Johnson (IL) Moran (VA) Simpson on rollcall No. 218, had I been present, I WHAT IS THE ADMINISTRATION Johnson, E. B. Murphy, Patrick Sires would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ DOING TO COMBAT THE RISING Jones (NC) Murphy, Tim Skelton Jones (OH) Musgrave Slaughter f PRICE OF GASOLINE Jordan Myrick Smith (NE) Kagen Nadler (Mr. ENGEL asked and was given Smith (NJ) ELECTION OF MEMBER TO CER- permission to address the House for 1 Kanjorski Napolitano Smith (TX) TAIN STANDING COMMITTEE OF Kaptur Neugebauer Smith (WA) minute.) Keller Nunes THE HOUSE Snyder Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, every day Kennedy Oberstar Solis Kildee Olver Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, by di- my constituents and people all around Souder Kilpatrick Ortiz rection of the Democratic Caucus, I America go to a gasoline station to put Space Kind Pallone Spratt offer a privileged resolution (H. Res. gasoline in their cars and see that the King (IA) Pascrell 304) and ask for its immediate consider- prices are rising and rising and rising King (NY) Pastor Stark Kingston Paul Stearns ation. to a point of ridiculousness. I want to Kirk Payne Stupak The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- know what is the administration doing Klein (FL) Pearce Sullivan to combat this problem. Sutton lows: Kline (MN) Pence When the price of a barrel of oil goes Knollenberg Perlmutter Tancredo H. RES. 304 Kucinich Peterson (MN) Tanner Resolved, That the following named Mem- up, gasoline prices go up, but when the Kuhl (NY) Peterson (PA) Tauscher ber be, and is hereby, elected to the fol- cost of a barrel of oil goes down, gaso- Taylor LaHood Petri lowing standing committee of the House of line prices still go up. Lamborn Pickering Terry Americans remember the gasoline Langevin Pitts Thompson (CA) Representatives: Lantos Platts Thompson (MS) COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY.—Ms. Baldwin prices started dropping conveniently Larsen (WA) Poe Thornberry (to rank immediately after Mr. Sherman). just before the last election in 2006. Is Latham Pomeroy Tiahrt Mr. BECERRA (during the reading). it a coincidence? I don’t know, but cer- Lee Porter Tiberi tainly I do know that nothing is hap- Levin Price (GA) Tierney Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent Lewis (CA) Price (NC) Towns that the resolution be considered as pening, and every single day Americans Lewis (GA) Pryce (OH) Turner read and printed in the RECORD. are feeling the pinch at the pump. Lewis (KY) Putnam Udall (CO) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there I call on the administration to take Linder Rahall Udall (NM) action. Enough is enough. I don’t know Lipinski Ramstad Upton objection to the request of the gen- LoBiondo Rangel Van Hollen tleman from California? if it’s collusion. I don’t know what it Loebsack Regula Vela´ zquez There was no objection. is. I just know it’s wrong, and prices Lofgren, Zoe Rehberg Visclosky should be dropping when the cost of a Lowey Reichert The resolution was agreed to. Walberg barrel of oil goes down, not getting Lucas Renzi Walden (OR) A motion to reconsider was laid on Lungren, Daniel Reyes Walz (MN) the table. higher. E. Reynolds Wamp f Mack Rodriguez Wasserman f Mahoney (FL) Rogers (AL) HONORING TEACHER EMILY Schultz THE DUKE CASE: POLITICAL Manzullo Rogers (KY) Waters JENNETTE Marchant Rogers (MI) Watson PANDERING? Markey Rohrabacher Watt (Mr. GINGREY asked and was given Marshall Ros-Lehtinen (Mr. POE asked and was given per- Waxman permission to address the House for 1 Matheson Roskam Weiner mission to address the House for 1 Matsui Ross minute and to revise and extend his re- Welch (VT) minute.) McCarthy (CA) Rothman marks.) McCaul (TX) Roybal-Allard Weldon (FL) Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, District At- Mr. GINGREY. Mr. Speaker, I rise McCollum (MN) Royce Weller torney Mike Nifong of North Carolina Westmoreland today to congratulate Emily Jennette, McCotter Ruppersberger quickly prosecuted Duke University la- McDermott Ryan (OH) Wexler a teacher at Sawyer Road Elementary McGovern Ryan (WI) Whitfield crosse players for an alleged sexual as- School in Marietta, Georgia, who was McHenry Salazar Wicker sault against a minority female. He recently recognized as our State’s McHugh Sali Wilson (NM) sensationalized and fueled racial un- Wilson (OH) Teacher of the Year. McIntyre Sa´ nchez, Linda rest, all to promote his reelection cam- McKeon T. Wilson (SC) This award could not have gone to a McMorris Sanchez, Loretta Wolf paign. He made outlandish allegations, more deserving candidate. Ms. Rodgers Sarbanes Woolsey calling the players hooligans. Jennette is an exceptional educator, McNerney Saxton Wu Forget the presumption of innocence McNulty Schakowsky Wynn praised by her fellow teachers for her Meehan Schiff Yarmuth or due process. Forget the facts. innovative teaching techniques, a com- Meek (FL) Schmidt Young (AK) Nifong is yet another example of a mitment to learning and an out- Meeks (NY) Schwartz Young (FL) prosecutor gone wild, wild about pub- standing ability to engage her stu- licity and win-at-all-costs mentality. NOT VOTING—27 dents. Now the cases have been dismissed for Mr. Speaker, I want to thank both Brady (PA) Jindal Millender- lack of evidence. Ms. Jennette and another Cobb County Cantor Johnson, Sam McDonald Carson Lampson Murphy (CT) The damage is to the innocent play- teacher who was a top 10 finalist, Ms. Costello Larson (CT) Murtha ers who cannot get their reputations Jennifer Dawson of Lost Mountain Edwards LaTourette Neal (MA) back. The damage is to the bona fide Middle School. Educators are among Fattah Lynch Obey Ferguson sexual assault victims who may be re- our communities’ most valuable assets. Maloney (NY) Radanovich luctant to prosecute. The damage is to Higgins McCarthy (NY) Rush Their gifts impact students in the Hill McCrery Walsh (NY) Duke University who acted too hastily classroom, and their lessons follow our Hunter by suspending the players due to media children throughout life. hysteria. The damage is to those who Georgia is fortunate to have teachers ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE are actual victims of crime based on like Emily Jennette educating our The SPEAKER pro tempore (during race. children, and I know she will make our the vote). Members are advised there DAs who violate their oath to seek State proud at the National Teacher of are 2 minutes to record their vote. justice and then flaunt their power by the Year competition.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:08 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.029 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3440 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me very much for the senior staffs of both Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, recent memos in congratulating Ms. Jennette and all of those organizations and for the peo- that have been released finally by the the teachers who help mold our chil- ple of America for standing up and Justice Department regarding certain dren’s lives every day. speaking out. situations in the Federal Government, f We are in trying times at the mo- specifically in the U.S. Attorney’s of- ment, and there is much we must do to fice, have revealed numerous things. A THREE-POINT PLAN FOR RES- bring our country together and make No wonder the Justice Department CUING THE NATION FROM VIO- our families stronger. Kudos, most gra- fought releasing these e-mails and LENCE cious love, to the women of the Rut- memos. (Mr. KUCINICH asked and was given gers’ basketball team, 10 young women, We now understand that the prosecu- permission to address the House for 1 all honor students, child prodigies, tion of Federal drug cases along the minute and to revise and extend his re- dedicated and working to make life Texas-Mexico border has dropped dra- marks.) better for themselves and for America, matically. All the way from Texas to Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, in the to get to Rutgers, to stay there, to California, prosecutions of drug cases aftermath of the tragedy at achieve academic excellence, and, yes, have dropped. In some places up to 25 Blacksburg, Virginia, it is becoming then to excel. Also, kudos to the Uni- percent of drug cases are not pros- painfully obvious that the easy avail- versity of Tennessee women’s basket- ecuted that were prosecuted just a year ability of handguns constitutes a grow- ball team, the NCAA women’s basket- ago. What is happening is the Federal ing national crisis of public health and ball champions. Government is not able to prosecute safety, one that calls for a powerful, This is the 35th anniversary year of drug smugglers, and they are asking wide-ranging response from this Con- title IX. Title IX is the legislation 35 the States to prosecute those cases. gress. years ago that was enacted that would Many States—especially those coun- I am urging Members to support H.R. make an equal playing field for women ties on the border with Texas and Mex- 676, the Conyers-Kucinich bill, which in sports and athletics. We will cele- ico, same was true in Arizona and Mex- establishes a universal, not-for-profit brate title IX and have been all year. I ico, New Mexico and California and health care system, which provides full have spoken to President McCormick, Mexico—don’t have the resources to and comprehensive mental health care. and the Congressional Black Caucus, prosecute all those drug cases. Second, support H.R. 808, a bill estab- the Speaker of the House and others So what is happening is many cases lishing a Department of Peace and will be welcoming the Rutgers and are dropping through the cracks, all Nonviolence, which directly addresses Tennessee teams as well as the presi- because the Federal Government has the issues of domestic violence, gang dent and coaching staffs to our city of dropped 25 percent of prosecution of violence, and violence in the schools Washington, DC, very soon. We will drug smugglers into the United States which is reflected in our current homi- hold a 2-hour summit and hear from because they say they are overwhelmed cide rates. the National Organization For Women, with cases. And third, the 33 deaths at a psychiatrist from Rutgers Univer- How many cases are we talking Blacksburg constitute a national trag- sity, some renowned women and others about? What types of drug cases? Well, edy. So, too, does the fact that an aver- who speak to the values of America. in some cases they are prosecuting age of 32 people each and every day in Today we had the chairman of the cases of only 500 pounds or more of the United States perish in handgun- Federal Communications Commission marijuana. Five hundred pounds, that related incidents. Accordingly, I am in our Appropriations Committee. He is just a number. But we can relate it drafting a bill to ban the purchase, came for his budget today. We talked to money, and 500 pounds of marijuana sale, transfer or possession of handguns about how do we make America better; is worth about $400,000. A drug smug- by civilians. A gun buy-back provision how do we shut down some of the smut gler smuggling in $400,000 worth of dope will be provided in the bill. and other things that are negatively or less, in some cases is getting a pass It’s time for us to rescue this Nation impacting our children. We are a better by the Federal Government because from the violence which is engulfing it, Nation than that. He has agreed to they say they are too overwhelmed and I have just articulated a three- work with us and together, through with the illegal entry into the United point plan to do so. this Congress, the FCC will be strong- States by drug smugglers. er. We must strengthen some of the If the States don’t prosecute those f things that they must do. cases, as many States are not able to b 1915 The 1934 law is archaic. The courts do, what is happening is those drug have interpreted that law very nar- smugglers are getting a get-out-of-jail- SPECIAL ORDERS rowly. This is far bigger than a person. free card. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. This is about the strength and success Drug smugglers are not stupid. They ELLSWORTH). Under the Speaker’s an- of our families, of our children. can weigh their marijuana. So all they nounced policy of January 18, 2007, and On behalf of the men and women who got to do, before they bring that dope under a previous order of the House, serve in this United States Congress, into the United States, is make sure the following Members will be recog- and specifically the men and women of they have less than 500 pounds, because nized for 5 minutes each. the Congressional Black Caucus, let us if they are caught by our border f rise up and build a better Nation for agents, the Federal Government won’t our sisters, our girls, our women, and, prosecute them because the Federal BUILD A BETTER NATION yes, our men and boys. Government says we have too many The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a f cases. previous order of the House, the gentle- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a This is absurd; this is nonsense. This woman from Michigan (Ms. KIL- previous order of the House, the gen- is chaos. Law enforcement is mad PATRICK) is recognized for 5 minutes. tleman from North Carolina (Mr. about this, and rightfully so. One Ms. KILPATRICK. Mr. Speaker and JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. former DEA official in the El Paso sec- Members, I stand here today as chair- (Mr. JONES of North Carolina ad- tor made the comment that if the Feds person of the Congressional Black Cau- dressed the House. His remarks will ap- decline to prosecute, and the State cus to say thank you to America, pear hereafter in the Extensions of Re- lacks the resources to prosecute these thank you to the president and CEO of marks.) drug smugglers, they just go free. You NBC News network, as well as the f have people violating the drug laws president and CEO of CBS News net- who now get away with it in the United work. I had an opportunity to meet OPEN BORDER CHAOS States, all because the Federal Govern- with them last week. They did the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ment doesn’t do its job. The job is big- right thing. previous order of the House, the gen- ger than prosecuting drug smugglers. Our country is in peril. We need to tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) is recog- The job is protect the borders, and our bring our country together. Thank you nized for 5 minutes. Federal Government doesn’t do that.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.081 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3441 They claim that they are not pros- THE FARM LABOR RECRUITMENT ploited is a continental sacrilege. The ecuting drug cases because they are SYSTEM problem with NAFTA and NAFTA- prosecuting folks that illegally enter The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a style trade agreements is they fail to the United States. But maybe that is previous order of the House, the gentle- take people into account. not true either. These same memos woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is rec- NAFTA and NAFTA-style agree- now reveal that in the State of Texas ognized for 5 minutes. ments serve the interests primarily of an illegal coming into the United Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, on April the money classes. They reduce risks States has to be captured six times be- 9, 2007, 29-year-old Toledoan, Santiago for Wall Street investors while raising fore they are actually prosecuted Raphael Cruz, was found bound, gagged the risk that workers in our heartland criminally for being in the United and beaten to death in Monterrey, will lose their jobs and health care. States. Mexico, in the office of his employer, They are manna for hedge funds, but a What happens is if they are caught the Toledo-based Farm Labor Orga- threat to the economic security of blue the first six times, they are just taken nizing Committee, or FLOC. collar workers. home. Of course, they come right back Mr. Cruz moved from Toledo, Ohio, to b 1930 to the United States. They are not Mexico 3 months ago to legally arrange being prosecuted. In Arizona, some- for Mexican guest laborers to work for They leave people out of the ques- times it is up to 11 times illegals enter a North Carolina pickle plant with tion. Whether it is campesinos in Mex- the United States before they are which FLOC has a contract. FLOC’s ef- ico trying to provide food for their criminally prosecuted for being here il- forts assured guest workers were treat- families and eke out an existence legally. ed humanely, that their papers were taken from them by their own govern- So what is the Federal Government legal, and that the notorious crime-rid- ment in cahoots with ours through doing? Well, we do know they are den labor recruitment system that NAFTA, or auto workers in the Mid- spending a lot of their time pros- characterizes farm labor on this con- west pursuing the American dream of a ecuting border protectors. They are tinent would cease to exist. house, a car, and a better life for their spending a lot of taxpayer money to FLOC, which is part of the AFL–CIO, children, they are the forgotten people make deals, back-room deals with drug is a farm labor union and social move- in our global economy. smugglers so that they can prosecute ment based in our district led by As Mr. Velasquez noted, Mr. Cruz had the likes of border agents Ramos and Baldemar Velasquez. FLOC is perhaps a good heart and was working for the Compean, deputy sheriffs like Gilmer most recently known for achieving a people. Mr. Cruz gave his life in service Hernandez, individuals who are enforc- fair labor contract for guest workers in to the forgotten people. We honor his ing the law. the United States with H2A visas in commitment and we extend our sym- The Federal Government’s duty is to North Carolina. Mr. Velasquez led that pathies to his family, to his friends, protect the dignity of this Nation. It campaign, as well as one to organize and to the entire FLOC community of needs to protect the border from every- pickle workers in Ohio in the 1980s, and which our community is so very proud. body coming into the United States il- has been recognized as a MacArthur His horrific death reminds us how legally, no matter the reason, but espe- Foundation fellow. brutal and unforgiving the NAFTA-in- cially those people who are criminals, In Mexico, FLOC offered a safe, legal duced labor system has become across especially those drug smugglers who alternative to the exploitative prom- our continent. It is time to renegotiate bring drugs into the United States and ises of coyotes and those who charge NAFTA. It is time not to extend it fur- make a profit off of that human weak- exorbitant fees to smuggle Mexicans ther. It is time to require continental ness, and now giving them a pass, be- across the border. The union had been labor standards that uphold the dignity cause they are not bringing in enough burglarized, and the workers harassed of human life, not extinguish it. dope? This is absurd. Not prosecuting for their efforts to protect Mexicans Mr. Speaker, I submit extraneous illegals until the sixth or eleventh wishing to work in our country. material for printing in the RECORD, time because we don’t supposedly have I learned, as I learned more about and I thank my colleague from Wash- the resources is absurd, and it is all be- Mr. Cruz’s brutal murder, I asked my- ington for allowing me to speak. cause we don’t protect the dignity of self whether this horrendous crime [From the toledoblade.com, April 12, 2007] the United States. could have been encouraged by FLOC’s U.S. DEMANDS PROBE OF SLAYING Border control in this country noble efforts to stop the illegal traf- (By Clyde Hughes) doesn’t seem to even exist. Third World ficking and continental labor caused by The U.S. General Consulate Office in Mex- nations protect their borders better NAFTA. I have called upon the govern- ico is pressing for a complete investigation than the United States, and the United ments of the United States and Mexico in the beating death of a Toledo union work- States protects the borders of other na- to fully investigate and bring the per- er found dead early Monday at the union’s tions like Korea. Why don’t we protect petrators of this horrendous crime to office in Monterrey, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur our own border? justice. These coyotes prey upon des- (D., Toledo) said yesterday. While all of this is going on down perate Mexican workers whose lands Law enforcement officials from the state there on the lawless border of the were taken from them by the Mexican of Nuevo Leon are investigating the death of United States and Mexico, now we hear Santiago Rafael Cruz, 29, a Mexican native Government under NAFTA. NAFTA set who has lived in Toledo since 1998 and had about a new reform package, a com- up conditions in North America for worked for the Farm Labor Organizing Com- prehensive immigration plan that is cruel exploitation of millions of land- mittee as manager of its Monterrey office for supposed to have little border security, less peasants and workers in Mexico. three months, said Baldemar Velasquez, supposed to have a lot of amnesty and Mr. Velasquez and FLOC worked end- longtime president of the union. supposed to have a whole lot more lessly to give people not only legal Mr. Velasquez said he believed Mr. Cruz’s guest workers in the United States. rights but hope for an end to the harsh death is directly related to FLOC’s efforts to That is not going to work. treatment handed to them by the gov- organize workers in the Monterrey area. What we need is the National Guard He said the union’s education efforts made ernments of the United States and of workers there less susceptible to people who on the border. We need to protect the Mexico. The current and often illegal would charge workers large sums of money borders, the dignity of the United labor recruitment system is rife with to enter the United States illegally. States. corruption. It exploits landless peas- FLOC’s program there recruits Mexican And that’s just the way it is. ants through a corrupt bounty system residents interested in going to the United f imposed by unsavory labor recruiters. States as part of a guest-worker program The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Many times I have said NAFTA fuels through a contract the union has with a previous order of the House, the gen- illegal immigration by creating an exo- North Carolina pickle company, union offi- dus of massive proportion of people cials said. tleman from Maryland (Mr. WYNN) is Mr. Cruz was bound, gagged, and beaten, recognized for 5 minutes. from the Mexican countryside who Miss Kaptur said yesterday. (Mr. WYNN addressed the House. His need something to eat after their live- She said she talked with Edward Heartney, remarks will appear hereafter in the lihoods are taken from them. The man- consul for politics and economic affairs with Extensions of Remarks.) ner in which these people are being ex- the U.S. consulate general in Monterrey,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.084 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3442 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 who assured her he’d press the Mexican gov- government charged with deciding More good things may come of it ernment for a thorough investigation and whether to declare war. It wrongly and than anyone can imagine. Consider our offer the assistance of the FBI. unconstitutionally transferred this relationship with Vietnam, now our Miss Kaptur said she also could call for a power to the President, and the Presi- friendly trading partner. Certainly we special investigation, which is allowed through the North American Free Trade dent did not hesitate to use it. are doing better with her than when we Agreement, which would engage the labor Although it is clear there was no tried to impose our will by force. departments of both the United States and cause for war, we just marched in. Our It is time to march out of Iraq and Mexico. leaders deceived themselves and the come home. She said the investigation provision in public with assurances that the war f NAFTA, though, does not provide for sanc- was righteous and would be over quick- SITUATION IN IRAQ tions. ly. Their justifications were false, and ‘‘Right now, they need to do the basic po- they failed to grasp even basic facts The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a licing work,’’ Miss Kaptur said. ‘‘Our govern- previous order of the House, the gentle- ment is engaged and I wanted [Mr. about the chaotic, political, and reli- Heartney’s] assurance on that. You see how gious history of the region. woman from Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) NAFTA is contributing to this endless Congress bears the greater blame for is recognized for 5 minutes. stream of people who are so vulnerable to ex- this fiasco. It reneged on its responsi- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. ploitation. bility to declare or not declare war. It Speaker, before I begin I would like to ‘‘There are no worker protections under transferred this decision-making power just have a moment of silence for the NAFTA. When [FLOC] does try to take the to the executive branch and gave open fallen students of Virginia Tech and illegality out of what’s going on there, this sanction to anything the President did. our colleagues, who were with them sort of horrendous tragedy occurs. It will be today, the people of Virginia, and the taken note of on a national level here.’’ In fact, the Founders diligently tried Mr. Velasquez said his union workers have to prevent the executive from pos- people of the United States of America. been harassed there before for organizing sessing this power, granting it to Con- Thank you. workers and helping them obtain legal docu- gress alone in article I, section 8, of the As I begin this 5 minutes, I believe it ments to work in the United States. Constitution. will be the challenge of this body to He said he believes that people running il- Today, just about everyone acknowl- find a way to confront the issue of vio- legal operations to move Mexicans into the edges the war has gone badly, and 70 lence through physical acts and vio- United States see FLOC as a threat. percent of the American people want it lence through words. Many of us will ‘‘We’re actually fighting the corruption propose new gun legislation, some of us that’s prevalent in this area,’’ Mr. Velasquez to end. Our national defense is weak- said via phone call from Monterrey. ‘‘There’s ened, the financial costs continue to will look to outreach, but we will also been 10 policemen killed here in the last drain us, our allies have deserted us, seek understanding. That under- year. We’ve educated the workers not to be and our enemies are multiplying, not standing I think leads me to join with taken advantage of and some people here to mention the tragic toll of death and the Chairwoman of the Congressional don’t like that, but we have to carry on the injuries suffered by American forces. Black Caucus as I acknowledge the work.’’ Iraq is a mess, and we urgently need outstanding women of the Rutgers Uni- Mr. Velasquez said Mr. Cruz’s body will be a new direction. But our leaders offer versity basketball team, to thank them returned to Puebla, Mexico, where the ma- for their dignity, their diplomacy, and jority of his family is located, for a funeral. only hand-wringing and platitudes. He said arrangements for the funeral have They have no clear-cut ideas to end the their excellence; and to speak, just a not been made yet. suffering and war. Even the most ar- very short brief word, of my agreement He said Mr. Cruz’s work with FLOC, which dent war hawks cannot begin to define with the final action on Imus and his dates to his arrival to Toledo in 1998, made a victory in Iraq. unfortunate and destructive words. difference in the union. As an Air Force officer, serving from Many of the first amendment advo- ‘‘He had a heart for the people,’’ Mr. 1963 to 1968, I heard the same agonizing cates, of which I happen to be one, are Velasquez said. ‘‘He spent his extra time con- pleas from the American people. These up in arms. Many have said the punish- sulting people, teaching them how not to get ment was too harsh. But I use the age- cheated and ripped off by phony promises by pleas were met with the same excuses people who said they could get papers for un- about why we could not change a deep- old teaching tool for those of us in con- documented folks, and he would explain any ly flawed policy and rethink the war in stitutional law classes around the Na- proposals out there for immigration reform. Vietnam. That bloody conflict, also tion. And though the first amendment ‘‘Basically, he wouldn’t allow people to be undeclared and unconstitutional, is pure, the right to association, the duped by other people wanting to take ad- seems to have taught us little despite freedom of religion is pure, but it is vantage of people’s ignorance. He was very the horrific costs. qualified by the Supreme Court that effective at that.’’ Once again, though everyone now ac- indicates that we cannot call ‘‘fire’’ in Mr. Velasquez and Miss Kaptur said the murder investigation is still in the early cepts that the original justifications a crowded theater. And so it is obvious stages and both said they plan on following for invading Iraq were not legitimate, that unfortunately what Imus did with the results closely. we are given excuses for not leaving. these words, these women athletes, f We flaunt our power by building per- these academically excellent students manent military bases and an enor- is that they cried ‘‘fire.’’ And fire can- WE JUST MARCHED IN (SO WE CAN mous billion-dollar embassy, yet claim not be allowed to burn, and the fire had JUST MARCH OUT) we have no plans to stay in Iraq perma- to be extinguished, and Imus and his The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a nently. Assurances that our presence ugly words had to be taken off of the previous order of the House, the gen- in Iraq has nothing to do with oil are public airwaves, wishing him well for tleman from Texas (Mr. PAUL) is recog- not believed in the Middle East. The hopefully a reformation and a rebirth nized for 5 minutes. argument for staying to prevent civil so that young people all around Amer- Mr. PAUL. Mr. Speaker, all the rea- war and bring stability to the region ica can, one, not be subjected to the vi- sons given to justify a preemptive logically falls on deaf ears. olence of words, and they cannot be strike against Iraq were wrong. Con- If the justifications for war were subjected to the brutality, the violence gress and the American people were wrong, if the war is going badly, if we of guns. misled. can’t afford the costs, both human and Let me move, Mr. Speaker, quickly Support for the war came from var- economic, if civil war and chaos have to an additional cause for my standing ious special interests that had agitated resulted from our occupation, if the here today. And that is to salute my for an invasion of Iraq since 1998. The reasons for staying are not more cred- colleague, Congresswoman LYNN WOOL- Iraq Liberation Act passed by Congress ible than the reasons for going, then SEY, who tonight will give her 200th and signed into law by President Clin- why the dilemma? The American peo- statement in opposition to the war in ton stated that getting rid of Saddam ple have spoken and continue to speak Iraq. I join her today, sadly, because Hussein was official U.S. policy. This out against the war, so why not end it? again young people, valiant, patriotic policy was carried out in 2003. How do we end it? Why not exactly young people are on the front lines of Congress failed miserably in meeting the way we went in? We marched in Iraq. They have not protested, they its crucial obligations as the branch of and we can march out. have not said, I will not go, but they

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:08 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.033 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3443 look to their leadership, policymakers As I and my colleagues in the Progressive en his embrace of the U.S. occupation, which to have the courage of conviction. Caucus and the Out of Iraq Caucus forecast many Iraqis blame for violence in the country. My friend from Texas is right, this is at the time, the starry-eyed, rosy scenarios These developments, Mr. Speaker, illustrate an unending and unsuccessful political laid out by the President, Vice-President, and the wisdom of requiring benchmarks the Iraqi action; 3,309 are dead, the violence over Defense Secretary Rumsfeld would come to Government must meet to justify continued the weekend has been unspeakable. The pass in fantasy land, but not in the cold, hard American blood and treasure in Iraq. More- cleric, al-Sadr, has taken out his min- world of reality which they refused to live in. over, because those benchmarks are estab- isters from the government. That To date, the war in Iraq has lasted longer lished pursuant to President Bush’s policies, it means the coalition government is on than America’s involvement in World War II, is passing strange indeed that he would the brink of collapse. Why? Because the greatest conflict in all of human history. threaten to veto the bill since it necessarily the prime minister is stubborn and will But there is a difference. The Second World means he would be vetoing his own bench- not sit down with his cabinet and par- War ended in complete and total victory for marks for the performance of the Iraqi govern- liament and ask in a respectful and col- the United States and its allies. But then ment. He would be vetoing his own readiness laborative way for the United States to again, in that conflict America was led by standards for U.S. troops. The President de- be thanked for its valiant work of its FDR, a great Commander-in-Chief, who had a mands this Congress send him an Iraq war bill military and asked that we stand down plan to win the war and secure the peace, lis- with ‘‘no strings.’’ But the only ‘‘strings’’ at- so that Iraq can stand up. tened to his generals, and sent troops in suffi- tached, Mr. Speaker, are the benchmarks and What a tragedy: ego over common- cient numbers and sufficiently trained and standards imposed by the President himself. sense. What a tragedy: the continued equipped to do the job. Mr. Speaker, in addition to the enormous fi- loss of life over big egos. As a result of the colossal miscalculation in nancial cost, the human cost to the men and And so I say to the administration, deciding to invade Iraq, the loss of public trust women of the United States Armed Forces we will not give you an unending man- resulting from the misrepresentation of the has also been high but they have willingly paid date to continue the terrible loss of life reasons for launching that invasion, and the it. Operation Iraqi Freedom has exacerbated of our troops, and the reason we will breath-taking incompetence in mismanaging the Veterans Administration health care facility not do that is because we declare a the occupation of Iraq, the Armed Forces and maintenance backlog; placed an undue strain military success. the people of the United States have suffered on the delivery of medical treatment and reha- I wear on my lapel the flag of the incalculable damage. bilitative services for current and new vet- POWs, the celebration and commemo- The war in Iraq has claimed the lives of erans; and exacted a heavy toll on the equip- ration of men and women still lost at 3,309 brave servicemen and women (64 in the ment, training and readiness requirements, war, still missing in action, some now first 16 days of this month). More than 24,600 and the families of the men and women of the who have come home, soldiers that are Americans have been wounded, many suf- United States Armed Forces. lost. There is a military success, a leg- fering the most horrific injuries. American tax- The emergency supplemental acknowledged islative initiative of H.R. 930 that I payers have paid nearly $400 billion to sustain the sacrifices made by, and the debt of grati- have declaring a military success, the this misadventure. tude, we and the Iraqi people owe to Armed discovery of no weapons of mass de- The depth, breadth, and scope of the Presi- Forces of the United States. But more than struction, disposing of Saddam Hus- dent’s misguided, mismanaged, and misrepre- that, it makes a substantial down payment on sein, and many other valiant efforts of sented war in Iraq is utterly without precedent that debt by providing substantial increases in our military. And then we must now in American history. It is a tragedy in a league funding for our troops. move to diplomacy. It is time now to recognize lives and all its own. But it was not unforeseeable or un- The supplemental includes a total appropria- patriotism rise stronger than egos and avoidable. tion of $2.8 billion for Defense Health Care, bluster and the sadness of the debacle Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1591, the U.S. Troop which is $1.7 billion above the President’s re- in Iraq. Readiness, Veterans’ Health and Iraq Ac- quest. The additional funding supports new ini- Mr. Speaker, as a proud member of the countability Act the House passed last month tiatives to enhance medical services for active Progressive and the Out of Iraq Caucuses, I provides real benchmarks and consequences duty forces and mobilized personnel, and their rise to speak about the current situation re- if the Iraqi Government fails to live up to its family members. Included in this new funding garding the Iraq War. But before I do, let me commitments. First, it requires the President to is $450 million for Post Traumatic Stress Dis- express my condolences to the families and certify and report to Congress on July 1, 2007 order/Counseling; $450 million for Traumatic friends and neighbors and loved ones who that real progress is underway on key bench- Brain Injury care and research; $730 million to suffered such horrific losses yesterday. I marks for the Iraqi government. If the Presi- prevent health care fee increases for our speak of Virginia Tech University, one of the dent cannot so certify, redeployment of U.S. troops; $20 million to address the problems at Nation’s great land grant colleges, where we troops must begin immediately and be com- Walter Reed; and $14.8 million for burn care. witnessed the most senseless acts of violence pleted within 180 days. If the President fails to Unlike the Republican leadership of the on a scale unprecedented in our history. certify that Iraq has met the benchmarks on 109th Congress and the Bush Administration, Neither the mind nor the heart can con- October 1, 2007, a redeployment of U.S. the new Democratic majority is committed to template a cause that could lead a human troops would begin immediately at that time America’s veterans. What’s more, we back up being to inflict such injury and destruction on and must be completed within 180 days. In that commitment by investing in their well- fellow human beings. The loss of life and inno- any case, at the latest, a redeployment of U.S. being. For example, the supplemental bill we cence at Virginia Tech is a tragedy over which troops from Iraq must begin by March 1, 2008, passed included $1.7 billion above the Presi- all Americans mourn and the thoughts and and must be completed by August 31, 2008. dent’s request for initiatives to address the prayers of people of goodwill everywhere go I have to say, Mr. Speaker, the Iraqi Gov- health care needs of Iraq and Afghanistan vet- out to the victims and their families. In the ernment is not off to a good start. The Green erans and the backlog in maintaining VA face of such overwhelming grief, I hope they Zone surrounding Baghdad remains insecure. health care facilities, including $550 million to can take comfort in the certain knowledge that Earlier this week, a suicide bomber managed address the backlog in maintaining VA health unearned suffering is redemptive. to penetrate the security perimeter of the Iraqi care facilities so as to prevent the VA from ex- The war in Iraq has also caused a lot of un- Parliament and detonated a bomb that killed periencing a situation similar to that found at earned suffering in Iraq and here at home. at least three members of the Iraqi parliament Walter Reed Medical Center. This is the same war, Madam Speaker, whose and wounded scores of others. Additionally, We provided an additional $250 million for proponents misrepresented to the Nation the market represented by Senator MCCAIN as administration to ensure there are sufficient would last no more than 6 months and likely an example of the improved security situation personnel to support the growing number of less than 6 weeks. This same war in Iraq, we in Iraq was turned into a killing field within Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and to maintain were led to believe by the Administration, days after Senator MCCAIN’s visit. a high level of services for all veterans; $229 would cost less than $50 billion and would be And yesterday we learned that radical Shiite million for treating the growing number of Iraq paid out of the ample revenues from Iraq’s oil Muslim cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has reasserted and Afghanistan veterans; $100 million for fields. The war in Iraq, the American people his political power by yanking his loyalists from contract mental health care, which will allow were promised, should have ended years ago the Cabinet, a move aimed at showing his the VA to contract with private mental health with Americans troops greeted as liberators by supporters he retains his credentials as an op- care providers to ensure that Iraq and Afghan- jubilant Iraqis throwing rose petals at their position leader and which increases the pres- istan veterans are seen in the most timely and feet. sure on Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to loos- least disruptive fashion, including members of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.089 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3444 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 the Guard and Reserve; and $62 million to ‘‘care for him who has borne the battle, and clear weapons and the whole world is speed up the processing of claims of veterans for his widow and orphan.’’ And even then our trying to get him to stop, it would be returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. work will not be done. For we must still be a sure sign of weakness on the part of Mr. Speaker, when American troops are about the business of repairing the damage to the United States, and it would send sent into harm’s way, America has an obliga- America’s international reputation and pres- such a signal that they would be more tion to do all it can to minimize the risk of tige. But this Democratic majority, led by the aggressive than they have been in the harm to the troops. That is why it was so im- Progressive Caucus and the Out of Iraq Cau- past. portant that we included additional funding cus, has ushered in a new era of oversight, In 1938 and 1939, Winston Churchill above the President’s request to support our accountability, and transparency to defense was looked upon as a warmonger be- troops. We provided $2.5 billion more to ad- and reconstruction contracting and procure- cause he warned about Hitler, and yet dress the current readiness crisis of our statement. Lord Chamberlain went to Munich, side troops, including ensuring that they are f Germany, and he signed a peace agree- better equipped and trained. We included $1.4 ment on Hitler’s terms, gave Hitler the THE LOGAN ACT billion more for military housing allowances Sudetenland, came back, and said, and $311 million more for Mine Resistant Am- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ‘‘Peace in our time,’’ because he went bush Protected (MRAP) vehicles for troops in previous order of the House, the gen- and talked with Hitler and he thought Iraq. And there is included in the supplemental tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is he could convince him not to be aggres- $222 million more for infrared counter- recognized for 5 minutes. sive. That was the green light for measures for Air Force aircraft to address the Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. Speak- World War II and 62 million people growing threat against U.S. air operations in er, I have high regard for everybody in died. Iraq and Afghanistan this whole body, but when someone Talking to these terrorists without Equally important, Mr. Speaker, the supple- does something wrong, it is imperative getting them to discuss and want to mental contains language directing the Presi- that it be brought to light, and brought change and move away from their poli- dent to adhere to current military guidelines for to light in a public forum. cies of mass destruction is wrong. Iran unit readiness, deployments, and time be- About a week ago, the Speaker of the is trying to build nuclear weapons and tween deployments. House, along with others, took a trip they will already have one; they are In the supplemental we passed, the De- that the State Department and the trying to build a delivery system for fense Department is required to abide by its White House disapproved of, to visit intercontinental, intermediate range, current Unit Readiness policy, requiring the Syria. Syria is a terrorist state, has and short-range missiles. chief of the military department concerned to been on the terrorist state list for a We must not send a signal of weak- determine that a unit is ‘‘fully mission capable’’ long, long time. They have been work- ness. I think the Speaker did the wrong before it is deployed to Iraq. The President ing with Iran, they have been a transit thing. I believe she violated the Logan may waive this provision by submitting a re- point for weapons that went into Leb- Act because she didn’t have the ap- port to Congress detailing why the unit’s de- anon, weapons that killed a lot of peo- proval of both the White House and the ployment is in the interests of national security ple. They support Hezbollah and Defense Department, and I hope that despite the assessment that the unit is not Hamas, two terrorist organizations. she won’t do this again. And I certainly fully mission capable. They work closely with Iran which has hope she won’t go to Iran. The Defense Department is also required to been involved in terrorism and is also f abide by its current policy and avoid extending on the terrorist list. And for the the deployment of units in Iraq in excess of Speaker and others to go over there b 1945 and talk with Assad, in my opinion and 365 days for the Army and 210 days for the COMMEMORATING THE RUTGERS in the opinion of the law, the Logan Marines. The provision may be waived by the UNIVERSITY SCARLET KNIGHTS President only by submitting a report to Con- Act, that it was not only the wrong gress detailing the particular reason or rea- thing to do and sent the wrong mes- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a sons why the unit’s extended deployment is in sage, but it was a violation of an act of previous order of the House, the gen- the interests of national security. Congress. tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) Mr. Speaker, to reduce the incidence of I want to read to you the language in is recognized for 5 minutes. combat fatigue and enhance readiness, it is the Logan Act. It says, ‘‘Any citizen of Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I came important that our troops have sufficient ‘‘time the United States, wherever he or she here tonight to talk about the Rutgers out of the combat zone and training between may be, who, without authority of the Women’s basketball team, which I am deployments. That is why we require the De- United States, directly or indirectly so proud of, and I will. But I have to re- fense Department to abide by its current policy commences or carries on any cor- spond to the previous speaker. and avoid sending units back into Iraq before respondence or intercourse with any I am very proud of the fact that troops get the required time away from the foreign government or any officer or Speaker PELOSI went to Syria. It is war theater. The President may waive this agent thereof, in relation to any dis- very important for us to have a dia- provision by submitting a report to Congress putes or controversies with the United logue with Syria. The fact of the mat- detailing why the unit’s early redeployment to States, or to defeat the measures of ter is that the Iraq Study Group rec- Iraq is in the interests of national security. United States, shall be fined under this ommended that we have a dialogue Mr. Speaker, the American people spoke title or imprisoned not more than 3 with both Syria and Iran, and certainly loudly and clearly last November when they years or both.’’ we need a new direction with regard to tossed out the Rubber-Stamp Republican Now, I am not under any illusions the war in Iraq. And an effort to reach Congress. They voted for a New Direction in that there is going to be any censor- out and have dialogue is a good thing. Iraq and for change in America. They voted to ship of the Speaker or any prosecution And there is such hypocrisy on the disentangle American troops from the car- of the Speaker, but I think the Amer- part of the other side of the aisle. I nage, chaos, and civil war in Iraq. They voted ican people ought to know that she mean, the President and the White for accountability and oversight, which we weakened the position of the United House criticized the Speaker. But a Democrats have begun to deliver on; already States in the Middle East, and she week before, a couple of days before, the new majority has held more than 100 con- broke the law; and she should be held there were Republican Members of gressional hearings related to the Iraq War, in- accountable for that. And tonight I Congress that went to Syria. So this is vestigating everything from the rampant waste, hope the American people get this mes- just total hypocrisy. fraud, and abuse of Iraq reconstruction fund- sage and send a message to the Speak- It was a good thing that she went to ing to troop readiness to the Iraq Study Group er. Syria. It is the very type of dialogue Report to the shameful mistreatment of She has talked recently, as I under- that we need. wounded soldiers recuperating at Walter Reed stand it, and she is thinking about Now, Mr. Speaker, I came here this Medical Center. going to Iran and talking to evening to honor the Rutgers Univer- And we will not stop, Mr. Speaker, until we Ahmadinejad. He is one of the terrorist sity Scarlet Knights women’s basket- are clearly on a glide path to the day when leaders of the world. And if she were to ball team and applaud their character our troops come home and where we can go over there while he is building nu- and integrity. These remarkable young

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:08 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.035 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3445 women are a class act, and I am proud HONORING BROWNIE SCOUT TROOP Cranfill, Caitlyn Minton and Hope to represent them and Rutgers Univer- 114 Brown. sity here in Congress. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a It is my hope that their example is After outrageous comments were previous order of the House, the gentle- reproduced by many others, and that made about the team by Don Imus on woman from North Carolina (Ms. FOXX) the soldiers who receive the fruit of his CBS radio and MSNBC show, the is recognized for 5 minutes. their labors feel honored and respected team showed great courage in choosing Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today by this act of young-hearted kindness. to meet with him so he could see first- to honor the patriotic efforts of Brown- f hand how wrong his sexist and racist ie Scout Troop 114 of Liberty Grove The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a comments were. During this emotion- Baptist Church. This group of 18 young previous order of the House, the gentle- ally and mentally exhausting ordeal, women has demonstrated a tangible woman from the District of Columbia these remarkable young women were commitment to supporting our troops (Ms. NORTON) is recognized for 5 min- graceful and poised as they became stationed in Iraq. Last month they col- utes. media headlines for controversy. lected donations to send nearly 250 (Ms. NORTON addressed the House. And I strongly denounce Don Imus’ boxes of Girl Scout cookies to the Her remarks will appear hereafter in divisive comments. They were dis- brave men and women from their com- the Extensions of Remarks.) gusting, and they have no place in our munity who are serving in Iraq. everyday language, let alone on a na- They pounded the pavement to sell f tionally televised radio and television cookies and find like-minded people CHILDREN: UNCOUNTED IRAQ program. His comments not only af- who were willing to join them in send- CASUALTIES ing cookies to a local North Carolina fected these players, but resonated The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a with women and African Americans National Guard unit stationed near Tikrit, Iraq. I applaud the thoughtful previous order of the House, the gen- across the Nation. tleman from Washington (Mr. These were innocent student athletes and committed patriotism of these girls who invested their time to self- MCDERMOTT) is recognized for 5 min- living out their basketball dreams. utes. They did not deserve to be his target. lessly raise money and then send a token of appreciation to our Nation’s Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, I And MSNBC’s decision to pull his tele- had intended to rise this evening to vision broadcast and CBS’ firing of him troops. The troops that are receiving the fa- focus my attention on the suicide displayed great moral character, and I bombing last week in Baghdad that support their choices. mous Girl Scout cookies are members of the headquarters 105th Engineer killed and wounded several members of His comments, Imus’ comments, de- Group from Winston-Salem. For these the Parliament, including Osama al- prived these women of fully enjoying men and women, there is no small act Nujafii. He was a member of the Iraq their accomplishments of being of kindness. No, this is much more Parliament who participated in a his- crowned Big East champions, going to than that. For our troops on the front toric live teleconference I hosted last the Final Four, and making history as line of the war on terror, to receive a month linking several of my House col- the first athletic team from Rutgers to package of cookies from a local Brown- leagues with several Iraq Parliamen- play for a national championship. All- ie Scout troop is like receiving a tarians. I wish him and the others Met Division I Player of the Year Kia breath of fresh air from home. Whether wounded in the attack a speedy recov- Vaughn said it best when she said, or not these young women knew it, ery. ‘‘Our moment was stolen from us.’’ they were communicating to our sol- That attack occurred inside the I want to talk about this team, Mr. diers that there are people who still Green Zone, and it confirms that no Speaker. Rutgers had a Cinderella sea- care for our troops’ welfare. They com- one is safe in Iraq, no matter how son that saw them come back from municated that the youngest genera- many checkpoints or blast walls or some devastating early season losses, tion still values sacrifice and service to press releases out of the White House. including a 40-point loss to Duke. country. It confirms that the President’s mili- Under head coach C. Vivian Stringer, I come to the floor today to celebrate tary escalation has only escalated the the Scarlet Knights finished their this concentrated act of patriotic kind- violence and the casualties. It confirms amazing season with a 27–9 record. The ness and to honor the young ladies who that the President has no control what- team fought improbable odds to reach have taken ownership of our Nation’s soever on the events on the ground. the pinnacle NCAA title game, and great tradition of offering support to And it confirms that the American peo- maintained enormous composure when our troops serving abroad. Their example are right to demand that the Presi- nasty comments overshadowed their ple highlights what our great Nation is dent work with the Democratic Con- record-breaking season. capable of producing in its youth. gress and establish a firm timetable for I am immensely proud of this ex- We cannot emphasize enough how the withdrawal of U.S. troops. traordinary team. Last week the Na- proud we are that these Scouts made For now, most Americans are grimly tion had an opportunity see a group of this effort to brighten the days of hun- aware of the weekend of bombings and outstanding student athletes who were dreds of soldiers in Iraq. What may killings across Iraq. But the situation striving to reach lifetime goals, both seem like a small token of gratitude is even worse. The Iraq war will live on and off the basketball court. By ex- will live on in the memory of the many long after the U.S. forces leave the celling in academics, music and com- troops who, in the coming weeks, will country. munity service, they are great role enjoy a box of Girl Scout cookies in the As a child psychiatrist, I was shocked models for student athletes across the deserts of Iraq. I have no doubt that to learn of a new study looking at the Nation. these men and women will look back effects this war is having on Iraqi chil- The Scarlet Knights women basket- with great fondness as they remember dren. I submit the story from USA ball players are excellent representa- the day when the mail call brought Today for the RECORD. It is the first tives of Rutgers University and the them an unexpected box of sweets and comprehensive look at the impact the State of New Jersey, and they should a reminder that their community and war is having on innocent Iraqi chil- be honored for their hard work, dedica- their country stands behind them in dren. The Ministry of Health surveyed tion, and heart. this difficult time. 2,500 primary school kids in Baghdad, Mr. Speaker, today I introduced a The members of the Brownie troop and 70 percent of those young kids dis- resolution commending the Scarlet who sent this gift of baked goods are played symptoms of trauma-related Knights women’s basketball team for Alexandra Dillard, Reva Combs, Laken stress. As the USA Today reported, their record-breaking season and their Harrold, Allison Livengood, Allie Bark- many Iraqi children have been phys- outstanding achievement off the bas- er, Lauren Johnson, Daniella Meeza, ically wounded, and many are psycho- ketball court. I am hopeful Congress Kristina Meeza, Acacia Key, Charlotte logically scarred. They are the un- will recognize these fine women by York, Cheyenne Byrd, Alexis Baldwin, counted casualties of the Iraq war. passing this resolution tomorrow. Erin McGee, Angela Nardini, Karlie Thousands of innocent Iraqi children

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:08 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.091 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3446 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 are uncounted casualties. But for all country. And for someone to come out by the World Health Organization as signs of these innocent Iraqi children, this war here and accuse her of a violation of trauma. Other symptoms included voluntary will rage on for them for years to the Logan Act. Now this is a 200-year- muteness, declining performance in school or an increase in aggressive behavior. come. They will face a life of anguish, old act that no one has ever been pros- The teachers received training from Iraqi and, in fact, will be the ones who, in ecuted under because there are real psychologists on how to identify and help the future, are the future violent ones questions as to whether it prevents students cope with trauma-related stress, al- we worry about. Members of the Congress from using Aboudi said. For all these innocent Iraqi children, this war their first amendment rights to talk The study ‘‘shows the impact of the vio- will rage on for years to come. In some cases, out on behalf of the people that they lence and insecurity on the children and on these children will face a lifetime of anguish represent. children’s mental health,’’ said Naeema Al- and suffering, and not one of these children is In 1980, the State Department main- Gasseer, the Iraqi representative of the WHO. ‘‘They have fear every day.’’ being counted as a casualty. tained that a visit to Cuba by Senators The Iraqi government is aware of the prob- These children routinely walk through car- John Sparkman and George McGovern lem but largely unequipped to address it, nage on their way to school, when they go at was not inconsistent with the Logan said Ali al-Dabbagh, a government spokes- all. Act. Nothing in the act, they said, man. ‘‘Until we have proper security in These children are routinely exposed to ran- ‘‘would appear to restrict Members of Baghdad, there’s not much we can do to help dom violence and killings that burn images in Congress from engaging in discussions these children,’’ Al-Dabbagh said in Wash- their minds that will scar them for life. in pursuance of their legislative duties ington. As a child psychiatrist, I can only echo the under the Constitution.’’ IRAQIS FEAR WAR’S LONG-TERM COST TO KIDS conclusions of one Iraqi doctor who was inter- In 1976 the State Department was (By James Palmer) viewed by USA Today. asked to weigh in as to whether former ‘‘Some of these children are time bombs,’’ President Nixon violated the Logan BAGHDAD—Ahmed Al-Khaffaji, 6, refused to said Said al-Hashimi, a psychiatrist who teach- leave his house for nearly a year after shrap- Act by visiting China. The Department nel from a mortar shell ripped through his es at an Iraqi Medical School. stated that Mr. Nixon’s trip was taken left arm, rendering it useless. In this excerpt from USA Today, al-Hashimi entirely in his capacity as a private Hussain Haider was only 5 when he stopped said he is concerned Iraqi children could be- citizen and that the Department ‘‘was speaking after watching his father slowly come the next generation of fighters and fuel unaware of any basis for believing Mr. bleed to death on the living room floor of the violence for years to come. Nixon acted with intent prohibited’’ by family’s Sadr City home. Because of what they are living through as the act. The Department has noted Iraqi psychiatrists worry about the long- youngsters, ‘‘they may think it’s better to mar- that no one has ever been prosecuted term consequences of a generation that has tyr themselves for religion or country,’’ al- been constantly exposed to explosions, gun- under this act. fights, kidnappings and sectarian murders. Hashimi said. This kind of attack on the Speaker ‘‘Some of these children are time bombs,’’ The only hope for these uncounted casual- will be answered in full again and said Said al-Hashimi, a psychiatrist who ties is treatment. again. Make no mistake about that. teaches at Mustansiriya Medical School. But, as the USA Today story points out, The article previously referred to fol- Mental health professionals such as al- there is only one government run psychiatric lows: Hashimi say that there is a chronic shortage of trained psychiatrists and that schools are hospital in Baghdad—a city of 6 million peo- [From USA TODAY] the front line for treating traumatized chil- ple, or put more accurately, a city of 6 million 70% OF IRAQI SCHOOLCHILDREN SHOW casualties. dren. SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA Ahmed’s skin was badly scarred, and he And then there are the uncounted casualties (By James Palmer) suffered burns on both legs when a mortar of Iraqi children in Basra, Rumadi, Najaf, BAGHDAD—About 70% of primary school round slammed into his family’s south Bagh- Karbala, Mosul, Kirkuk, Fallujah, Baqubah, students in a Baghdad neighborhood suffer dad home on Jan. 1, 2006. and all the other places Iraqi children live. symptoms of trauma-related stress such as His mother, Safia Hussain Ali, said that Until the war ends, there is virtually no bed-wetting or stuttering, according to a for nearly a year afterward, her son feared chance that thousands of innocent Iraqi chil- survey by the Iraqi Ministry of Health. leaving the house and often refused to eat. dren will be treated for their war wounds. The survey of about 2,500 youngsters is the Today, Ahmed attends school, but his be- We can only estimate how many thousands most comprehensive look at how the war is havior occasionally regresses, and he re- affecting Iraqi children, said Iraq’s national treats from reality. of Iraqi children need urgent psychological at- ‘‘Sometimes he refuses to eat and just tention. We know they are not going to get it mental health adviser and author of the study, Mohammed Al-Aboudi. wants to watch TV or play video games,’’ Ali until this war ends. ‘‘The fighting is happening in the streets said. There is a timetable for doing just that, and in front of our houses and schools,’’ al- Haider al-Malaki, 40, a psychiatrist at the the President should stop listening to his dis- Aboudi said. ‘‘This is very difficult for the government-run Ibn Rushd Hospital, said he credited Vice President and start listening to children to adapt to.’’ has treated children as young as 6 with post- reason and reality. The study is to be released next month. Al- traumatic stress disorder. He said he has Now, in the face of that, our Speaker Aboudi discussed the findings with USA also seen children with sleeping and eating disorders that can be traced to the violence. has led this Congress to set a time line TODAY. that the President says, I will ignore. Many Iraqi children have to pass dead bod- MORE AGGRESSION The President said, I will ignore the ies on the street as they walk to school in ‘‘They have all experienced some kind of the morning, according to a separate report psychological trauma, whether they wit- people, I will ignore the vote of 2006. No last week by the International Red Cross. nessed a murder or survived a kidnapping at- matter what the Speaker does, I am Others have seen relatives killed or have tempt,’’ al-Malaki said. ‘‘When they witness going to attack her. been injured in mortar or bomb attacks. violence, they’re more likely to display ag- So the Speaker took the Iraq Study ‘‘Some of these children are suffering one gressive and reckless behavior’’ later. Group’s book that said we ought to trauma after another, and it’s severely dam- Al-Hashimi said he is concerned Iraqi chil- talk to the people in Syria. For those aging their development,’’ said Said Al- dren could become the next generation of of you who don’t know, Syria is right Hashimi, a psychiatrist who teaches at fighters and fuel violence for years to come. up next to Iraq. And it is on the border. Mustansiriya Medical School and runs a pri- Because of what they are living through as vate clinic in west Baghdad. ‘‘We’re not cer- youngsters, ‘‘they may think it’s better to And there are Presidential accusations tain what will become of the next genera- martyr themselves for religion or country,’’ that people are coming in from Syria tion, even if there is peace one day,’’ Al- al-Hashimi said. into Iraq, creating trouble and killing Hashimi said. Al-Hashimi set up a workshop this year to our troops. This is on its way to being The study was conducted last October in help teachers and school officials deal with the most deadly month in 5 years. the Sha’ab district of northern Baghdad. The students suffering from war-related trauma. Now, for the Speaker to take her low- to middle-income neighborhood is in- He urges educators to get kids to release time and carefully plan and go over habited by a mix of Shiites and Sunni Arabs. their emotions through activities such as and talk to the leadership of Syria Al-Aboudi said he believes the sample was academic competitions and soccer games. broadly representative of conditions ‘‘Schools in hot areas are still func- about attacks being made on Ameri- throughout the capital. tioning,’’ Al-Hashimi said, referring to vola- cans is, in my view, it is part of her In the study, schoolteachers were asked to tile Baghdad neighborhoods. ‘‘Unfortunately, legislative responsibility to the people, determine whether randomly selected stu- many people don’t know how to handle the not only of her district, but the entire dents showed any of 10 symptoms identified children in this situation.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.094 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3447 Attacks on or near schools have forced Let me also thank the Chair of the don’t hate black people’’ and ignore all Iraqi teachers and other school staff to try Congressional Black Caucus, Congress- of the ways that the status quo in our to protect their students. woman KILPATRICK, and members of society today reinforces racial inequal- ‘‘Children are very perceptive of teachers’ moods and actions,’’ said Hadoon Waleed, a the CBC for their leadership in address- ity as well as sexism. Institutional rac- psychology professor at Baghdad University. ing and denouncing the latest rep- ism and sexism don’t need any personal ‘‘It’s very important that teachers are rehensible comments by Don Imus. ill will in order to continue. They rely trained to handle their students during First, I want to congratulate the on indifference, and people like Imus stressful situations.’’ Rutgers women’s basketball team. We promote that indifference. Fawad Al-Kaisi, 59, headmaster at the Al- are so proud of you. Your record of The grim reality is that women still Hurriyah primary school in south Baghdad, achievement as women, as students, as said his staff has learned through experience. earn 75 cents for every dollar earned by ‘‘When explosions go off in the area, the athletes speaks for itself and no one their male counterparts. The fact is students become very nervous,’’ Al-Kaisi can take away your accomplishments. that in the United States a woman is said. ‘‘We try our best to create a positive As we all know, on April 4, the morn- raped every 6 minutes, and women of environment to make them feel safe.’’ ing talk show host Don Imus, who has, color are especially vulnerable to sex- Like others among Iraq’s professional for years, mind you, for years, made ual violence. The fact is that, in spite elite, psychiatrists are scarce, in part be- disparaging remarks towards people of cause they have been targets of kidnappers of all the progress we have made in and assassins. color and others, referred to the very America, an African American woman Al-Malaki, the psychiatrist at Ibn Rushd, distinguished women of the Rutgers is still less likely to make it to college survived two bullet wounds in his right arm basketball team with such disgusting than a white woman. from an assassination attempt in his clinic words that I don’t even want to repeat What is dangerous about people like last year. He is among the few psychiatrists them. Imus, and he is only one of many, is who have remained in Iraq and continued to Not only did his comments belittle that their racist and their sexist com- work. The Iraqi Society of Psychiatrists esti- the ethnicity of these women of valor, mentary serves to celebrate and uphold mates at least 140 of the country’s 200 psy- but he apparently felt entitled to deni- the status quo, to make it okay to be chiatrists were killed or have fled the coun- grate these women as women. We are indifferent to the racism and sexism try in the past four years. here today to say that there is no place that still surrounds us. That is unac- LITTLE HELP AVAILABLE for that kind of sexism and racism in ceptable. A shortage of psychiatric facilities further our public discourse. Finally, let me just say to Imus’s limits the availability of mental health care. b 2000 sponsors: Let me congratulate you Ibn Rushd is the only government-funded again, you did the right thing. But be- psychiatric hospital in Baghdad, a city of 6 So while we acknowledge MSNBC and fore you get too complacent, let me re- million people. CBS did the right thing by firing Imus, mind you, Procter & Gamble and For Hussain Haider, now 7, and other chil- we need to ask the question, what took dren, the need is urgent. He stopped speaking American Express and all the rest, that for months after his father was killed in a so long? CBS’s initial response, which the makeup of your corporate board crossfire between fighters of the Mahdi was to suspend Imus 2 weeks with pay, rooms reflects the indifference to insti- Army, a Shiite militia group, and U.S. forces suggested that they thought that a tutional racism and sexism in this April 6, 2004. token punishment would appease the country, and we are looking to you to Hussain’s mother, Thuraya Jabbar, said his public outcry and demonstrated a com- grades have fallen, and he is awakened fre- do more than stop sponsoring bigots. plete disregard and insensitivity to We are looking to you to help young quently by nightmares. both the women of the Rutgers basket- ‘‘He starts crying whenever we start speak- women, young black women like the ing about his father,’’ she said. ball team and the millions of Ameri- women on the Rutgers basketball cans who were outraged by the com- f team, to overcome the hurdles that ments. face them and to find the opportunities DENOUNCING THE REPREHEN- The fact is, this incident is just one that are too often denied them. SIBLE COMMENTS OF DON IMUS of many Imus should have been fired So let me thank again Congress- for a long time ago. For example, he The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a woman KILPATRICK for her leadership previous order of the House, the gentle- should have been fired 14 years ago in the Congressional Black Caucus. woman from California (Ms. LEE) is when he referred to Gwen Ifill, who was Also let me say thank you again, Con- then the White House correspondent recognized for 5 minutes. gresswoman WOOLSEY, for your leader- Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, first let me for the New York Times, and he said, ship. take a moment to offer my condolences ‘‘Isn’t the Times wonderful? It lets the to the families of the victims of the cleaning lady cover the White House.’’ f terrible and senseless violence at Vir- The point is this was not an isolated ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER ginia Tech. As they struggle to cope incident. PRO TEMPORE with their tremendous loss, we must If you look back at what he said with give proper respect to their lives and regard to New York Times sports re- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the lives of the thousands of innocent porter Bill Rhoden, he said he was a ELLSWORTH). Members are reminded to people that are cut short every year in ‘‘quota hire.’’ When you look at what direct their remarks to the Chair. this country by gun violence. And let he said about the tennis player, Amelie f us honor their memories by commit- Mauresmo, he called her ‘‘a big old ting ourselves to bringing an end to . . .’’ And I don’t even want to say REMARKS ON DON IMUS gun violence. what he said there, but go back and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Before I begin, I want to commend check the record. He even admitted previous order of the House, the gen- my colleague, Congresswoman WOOL- that he picked one of his producers to tleman from Illinois (Mr. DAVIS) is rec- SEY, because today is the 200th time do the ‘‘N jokes.’’ ognized for 5 minutes. she has come to this floor to speak out You know, this is unbelievable. The Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I against this unnecessary war in Iraq. I point is, and I want to make this clear, would like to begin by expressing con- commend your tenacity, Congress- this is not an isolated incident. And dolences to all of those who were di- woman WOOLSEY, and I thank you for while I, for one, am glad that his show rectly affected by the gun violence that your leadership and your commitment has been cancelled, I believe that we has just taken the lives of so many to ending the occupation of Iraq and to should be concerned with the fact that young people with so much promise. bringing our troops home. I am proud it took him so long to be taken off the Again, I think it is an indication of a to serve with you in this body as your air. tremendous need to better regulate the colleague and as co-chair of the Pro- It is also important to understand acquisition and ownership of guns in gressive Caucus, and I want to say to that this is just not about Imus. There our country, and I join with all of those you that your voice has become the is a tendency in this country to treat who call for increased regulation. voice of America. Thank you, Con- racism as an issue of personal ill will Mr. Speaker, America’s radios, tele- gresswoman WOOLSEY. so that people can say to themselves ‘‘I visions, newspapers, and Internet sites

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.038 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3448 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 have been consumed for the past sev- Reverend Jesse Jackson and the Rev- and proud Scarlet Knights. He under- eral days over remarks by radio per- erend Al Sharpton for the tremendous estimated the pride we feel in New Jer- sonality Don Imus. roles that they played in raising this sey about our remarkable women on Two weeks ago Imus referred to the issue. that team. As a matter of fact, during women of the Rutgers University wom- f the founding of the Nation, New Jersey en’s basketball team in language which had a theme: ‘‘Don’t tread on us.’’ Don The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a can only be described as racist, sexist, Imus may have had a microphone, but previous order of the House, the gentle- and viciously offensive. Faced with an he was no match for these young woman from California (Ms. WATERS) is uproar of disgust and protest in re- women and their coach, who so elo- recognized for 5 minutes. sponse to those remarks, Imus apolo- quently spoke up for what is right and (Ms. WATERS addressed the House. gized on one hand and on the other de- fair. I am so proud that through their Her remarks will appear hereafter in nied any racism and insisted that his actions they were able to persuade two the Extensions of Remarks.) words carried no malice. major networks, MSNBC and CBS, as Imus has a history of similar re- f well as numerous advertisers, that the marks and demands for him to be fired THE RUTGERS WOMEN’S days of using public airways to ridicule escalated by the hour and day. Under BASKETBALL TEAM and debase anyone they choose are pressure from the public and adver- over. tisers, MSNBC agreed to drop the Imus The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Let me add that it is time that the show, and then, of course, CBS came to previous order of the House, the gen- FCC start doing its job by halting the the same decision. I commend them for tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAYNE) is use of racial and gender slurs over the coming to the realization that this recognized for 5 minutes. public airways. As long there is weak kind of rhetoric has no place on the Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, I was only enforcement, there will continue to be public airways. I hope this outcome going to speak about our Rutgers hate language used by the so-called will be viewed as a victory for free women, but I do want to also add my ‘‘shock jocks.’’ In Rwanda it was the speech and corporate responsibility. voice to the condolences for the Vir- radio that urged people to kill and to I consider myself an apostle of the ginia Tech students. Out of the number go. It is hate radio that can create first amendment. Free speech is funda- of students who were killed, four stu- problems, serious problems, as we have mental to our very notions of what and dents came from my State of New Jer- seen, like I said, in Rwanda. who we are as a people and as a Nation. sey. So our hearts are heavy for all of History has shown us that words Nevertheless, I believe that the outcry the families, but especially for our four matter, and once society accepts ugly and protest over the Imus remarks and New Jersey students. language, ugly incidents will follow. the demands for his dismissal are not I also want to add my congratula- We see the indecent exposure at the only justified, but are totally con- tions to Congresswoman WOOLSEY for Super Bowl, where a tremendous sistent with the first amendment. being the persistent voice against the amount of attention was paid. How- Nothing has eaten away at the soul war. Day in and day out she has ever, we let a Don Imus go on year in, of America, nothing has divided our brought this to our attention, and I year out, year in, year out, and many Nation, and nothing has more persist- think much of what we see today in the others. Something is wrong with that ently infected our democracy than the movement against the war can directly picture. monstrous evil of racism. be attributed to her tenacity. I call on the networks to examine Racism dehumanized and continues I want to also commend Speaker their record of hiring minorities for top to dehumanize African Americans and PELOSI for the groundbreaking trip she on-the-air and executive positions so others. Racism continues to ravage the took to Syria. I think that the dignity that African Americans are fairly rep- lives of Black America from health to and the knowledge and the respect that resented in the media. One reason that housing and from income to imprison- were shown to her will begin to break the networks made the decision to dis- ment. It has taken almost 150 years of the ground, and I hope that she con- continue the Don Imus show was that struggle and sacrifice, but we no longer tinues to do that. the network employees let the manage- accept the racist practices and we no Mr. Speaker, as a Representative ment know how disturbed and embar- longer excuse racist speech. from New Jersey, I am pleased to rise rassed and offended they were by these No one is demanding that the govern- here in the United States House of Rep- demeaning commentaries and that ment muzzle Mr. Imus. However, it is resentatives to praise the young they were a part of that institution, logical and just that large, extremely women of the Rutgers basketball team, and that was the overriding factor. profitable media companies whose ex- the Scarlet Knights, and their inspira- However, it was Rosa Parks, who 50 istence and whose profits are based on tional coach, C. Vivian Stringer. They years ago decided that she would not freedom of speech, would want to en- are true champions not only for their sit at the back of the bus, and the peo- sure that they are not profiting from academic and athletic achievements, ple from Montgomery walked for a the abuse of African American women, but for the dignity, for the strength, year, 2 years, and broke the back of the from the poisoning of relations be- for the class they have shown during bus company. It was once again the ec- tween Americans, or from discrimina- this ordeal. onomics that had a play in this 50 tion or oppression of any sector of our These 10 women overcame dis- years later that people said that if you society. appointing early losses in the season to continue to advertise on that station, Last week it was an outcry against advance, amazingly, to the Final Four. we will not use your product. So I am Mr. Imus for his remarks. Today and Around the Nation fans watched as the proud of the American people. tomorrow it must be against the rap- Scarlet Knights of Rutgers, who had Finally, let me say that once again I pers, hip-hop artists, and comedians lost four of their first seven games, de- am proud of these young women, one who use vile language as a part of their feated Duke’s Blue Devils in an excit- from my district in Newark, New Jer- public acts. ing 53–52 upset victory. This was after sey, from the high school Shabazz that My mother used to take washing a lopsided 59–35 victory over LSU. I taught at. powder or soap and wash out our When the ugly incident with Don f mouths if we were to use language that Imus cast a shadow over their success, b 2015 was unacceptable to her. Now, I know these young women showed what they that we can’t do this with some of our were made of. In standing up for them- 200TH SPECIAL ORDER ON THE entertainers, but we certainly can sani- selves and their school and for New WAR IN IRAQ tize and let them know that we are not Jersey, they also took a stand on be- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a appreciative of their language. half of all young women who insist on previous order of the House, the gentle- I join with those who commend the being treated with respect and refuse woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) chairperson of the Congressional Black to be insulted and stereotyped. is recognized for 5 minutes. Caucus, CAROLYN CHEEKS KILPATRICK, Don Imus and those of his ilk vastly Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise for her leadership. And I also commend underestimated New Jersey’s strong today for the 200th time to express my

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:18 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.099 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3449 disgust and dismay with our Nation’s the President. Here is what it boils appear hereafter in the Extensions of policy in Iraq. And I want to thank down to: $4,100 for every American Remarks.) Bart Ackeocella, who has helped me household; $1,500 for every man, woman f with my many, many words calling on and child; $275 million a day; $11 mil- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a the President of the United States to lion every hour. Look what we could do previous order of the House, the gen- bring our troops home. with that kind of money: $928 million, tleman from Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH) is rec- Forty-nine months after this failed 3 days in Iraq is enough to build 100 ognized for 5 minutes. Iraq policy was launched, we are still schools or 5,400 affordable housing (Mr. KUCINICH addressed the House. being told, Be patient. Progress is just units, or provide health care for 144,000 His remarks will appear hereafter in around the corner. All of our sacrifices children for the length of the Iraq war. the Extensions of Remarks.) will somehow be worth it. But all that And if national security is what you amounts to nothing more than des- want to redirect the money toward, we f perate spin. And the American people could have used Iraq appropriations for DEMOCRATIC BLUE DOG aren’t buying it; neither, apparently, more secure posts, for energy independ- COALITION are some top military brass. The ad- ence initiatives, for nuclear non- ministration can’t find someone to proliferation programs, for debt relief The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under take the job of war czar, a job that in the underprivileged areas of the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- would coordinate the military cam- world. We could have invested in real uary 18, 2007, the gentleman from Ar- paigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. One of national security. kansas (Mr. ROSS) is recognized for 60 the recruits for the job, retired Marine Mr. Speaker, we have sacrificed more minutes as the designee of the major- General Jack Sheehan, told The Wash- than enough in lives, in treasure, in na- ity leader. ington Post last week that he would tional stature and credibility for a mis- Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rather spare himself the ulcer, saying taken ideological pipe dream. rise on behalf of the 43 Member strong of the Bush administration, ‘‘The very It is time for our leaders to hear the fiscally conservative Democratic Blue fundamental issue is they don’t know frustration of the American people, Dog Coalition. We are a group of fis- where the hell they’re going.’’ frustration with this shameful, waste- cally conservative Democrats that are How can the administration possibly ful, futile policy. It is time to end this committed to restoring common sense say that Iraq is on the road to freedom occupation. It is time to bring our and fiscal discipline to our Nation’s and stability when a bomb goes off in- troops home. government. As you walk the Halls of Congress, side the Green Zone and kills members f of the elected Parliament? If it’s not Mr. Speaker, it is easy to know when safe inside the fortress of the Green THE RUTGERS WOMEN’S you are walking by the office of a fel- Zone, just imagine what it is like in BASKETBALL TEAM low Blue Dog Member because you will the streets of Baghdad. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a see this poster that says ‘‘The Blue Dog How can the administration say previous order of the House, the gen- Coalition.’’ It says, ‘‘Today, the U.S. national debt is, 8,887,793,986,597.86.’’ progress is being made when the Asso- tleman from New Jersey (Mr. HOLT) is ciated Press reports that dozens of recognized for 5 minutes. And for every man, woman and child in Iraqi police officers were dem- Mr. HOLT. Mr. Speaker, the women’s America, their share of the national onstrating outside their Baghdad sta- basketball team of Rutgers University debt is $29,465. It is what we refer to as tion chanting, ‘‘No, no to America. Get had a great season going to the finals. the ‘‘debt tax.’’ And that is one tax out, occupiers.’’ And now American And as one of two Members of Congress that cannot be cut, that cannot go soldiers can look forward to a few more who represents Rutgers University away until this Nation gets its fiscal months of trying valiantly, but in vain, here in Congress, I would like to pay house in order. The Federal deficit con- to carry out this misguided mission, as tribute to them, not just for their ath- tinues to climb. the Pentagon has announced that sol- letic ability. Mr. Speaker, it is hard now to think diers’ 1-year tours will be extended to After the season was over, they were back and realize, but from 1998 through 15 months. the subject of hateful, crude and insult- 2001, this country had a balanced budg- I ask my colleagues who gave the ing comments; and they responded et; and yet under the Republican lead- President the authority to invade Iraq with restraint, with eloquence and dig- ership for the previous 6 years, we have 41⁄2 years ago if they weren’t surprised nity. They were classy. These athletes seen them rubber-stamp the Presi- that they voted for an occupation with and Coach Stringer distinguished dent’s budget year after year after no apparent end in sight. They abso- themselves after the season even more year, giving us the largest deficit after lutely didn’t intend for our troops to be than they did during their extraor- the largest deficit after the largest def- caught in the middle of a civil war that dinary season. And they serve as a re- icit, record deficits. And as a result of our very presence as occupiers has in- minder of what college athletics is all that, we have seen the national debt spired. Four and a half years later, about, or should be. We hold up college grow to where it is today, approaching over 3,300 Americans who will never athletics not for the entertainment of $9 trillion. make it home to their families, and all alumni and fans, but because we be- Why does this matter? It matters beat the cost of more than $375 billion to lieve athletic participation builds char- cause the total national debt from 1789 stop Saddam Hussein from using weap- acter. These women of the Rutgers bas- to 2000 was $5.67 trillion, but by 2010, ons of mass destruction that he didn’t ketball team showed that they have the total national debt will have in- have. character. creased to $10.88 trillion. This is a dou- This week, Americans sent their 2006 bling of the 211-year debt in just 10 tax returns to the IRS, trusting that f years. Interest payments on this debt our government will send that money The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a are one of the fastest growing parts of back to us in the form of services, ben- previous order of the House, the gen- the Federal budget. And the debt tax is efits, stability and security. So what tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is one that cannot be repealed. Deficits do we tell them? What do we tell the recognized for 5 minutes. reduce economic growth. They burden American people about the staggering (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. our children and grandchildren with li- costs they are being asked to assume His remarks will appear hereafter in abilities. They increase our reliance on for the occupation of Iraq? Can anyone the Extensions of Remarks.) foreign lenders who own some 40 per- possibly argue that we have somehow f cent of our debt. gotten a return on this reckless invest- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a This chart here, Mr. Speaker, graphi- ment? previous order of the House, the gentle- cally depicts why the American people The National Priorities Project has woman from New York (Mrs. MCCAR- should be concerned about the fact broken down the Iraq financial burden, THY) is recognized for 5 minutes. that our country is nearly $9 trillion in assuming a total of $456 billion once (Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York ad- debt. You see, our Nation spends a half the latest supplemental is signed by dressed the House. Her remarks will a billion dollars a day, give or take a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:08 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.102 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3450 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 few dollars, simply paying interest on our priorities as a family, the things beginning to ask the tough questions of the debt, and that is money that could that we had to have, needed. We knew the administration as it relates to how be going for education, health care, what our sources of income were, and the tax dollars that are taken from the veterans benefits, to properly equip our we worked hard as a family to meet American people by the United States men and women in uniform and ensure those priorities. But Mr. Speaker, you Government, how they are spent. Are that they’ve got the best body armor know, we were taught as young people, we spending them wisely and are we ac- possible. as children, if you don’t have the counting for them? Do we have con- And this really graphically depicts it, money, then you don’t buy things tractors running amuck in Iraq, and as you can see. The red bar is the which you can’t afford to pay for. are we getting our money’s worth? amount of money our Federal Govern- Those were lessons that we learned I think this is an important time to ment spends simply paying interest on very well at an early age, taught by be thinking about accountability and the national debt. The light blue bar our parents, that we carried on to our good stewardship of our American tax demonstrates how much money we businesses. And let’s face it, if you dollars. Today is the day. Midnight to- spend educating our children. The spend more money every year in a busi- night is the time when that filing is green box indicates how much we spend ness than you take in, you’re out of due. You know, the people at home on our veterans. And the purple box in- business pretty soon; your banker pulls that I live around, they don’t mind dicates how much we spend on home- the plug on you. paying taxes as long as they know as a land security. Again, you can see over- government we are setting our prior- b 2030 whelmingly our tax money is going to ities and we are doing a good job of pay interest on the national debt. We learned that lesson. Our local stewardship and accounting for the dol- It is time to get our fiscal house in governments and State governments lars that are being spent. I think that order. It is time to restore common understand that, as well as our county is what this is all about tonight, ac- sense to our Federal Government. And governments. But something has hap- countability; and I want to thank my once we do, we can begin to spend less pened in Washington in the last 6 friend, Mr. ROSS, for leading this dis- of your hard earned tax money, Mr. years. In 8 tough years during the 1990s cussion. Speaker, on paying interest on the na- of making tough decisions relative to And, Mr. Speaker, it is great to see tional debt, and we can spend a lot our priorities and spending and getting you in that chair as a fellow member of more on educating our children, taking under control the deficit spending, 6 the Blue Dog Coalition. Mr. ROSS. I thank the gentleman care of America’s veterans, keeping our years ago, 6-plus years ago, we went on from Florida for his insight and dis- homeland secure, and the list of Amer- a rampage here in Washington that cussing fiscal discipline and the budget ica’s priorities goes on and on. sent spending through the roof, far out- One of the co-chairs for the fiscally stripping the revenues raised to pay for and demanding that this Congress re- conservative Democratic Blue Dog Co- that spending. As a result, we had to go flects the values and the priorities of alition is Allen Boyd from Florida. He into the capital markets and borrow the American people. The U.S. is becoming increasingly de- is our administrative co-chair. I am de- that money to pay for normal oper- pendent on foreign lenders. Foreign lighted that he has joined me this ations of our United States Govern- ment. lenders currently hold a total of $2.199 evening for this lively discussion about trillion of our public debt. Compare restoring common sense and fiscal dis- We have the most powerful government in the world. We have the most this to only $623 billion in foreign hold- cipline to our national government. ings back in 1993. There is a chart here And part of the way we do that, we be- powerful Nation. We have the richest Nation. Our economic model is a won- that pretty much shows us where we lieve, is through accountability. have been and where we are going. The Throughout the evening we are going derful, wonderful economic model. But amount of foreign-held debt more than we have forgotten the lessons that we to be talking about the budget, we are doubled under the Bush administra- all learned as children taught to us by going to be talking about the debt and tion. Starting in 2001, you can see how our parents that we ought to be fis- the deficit, we are going to be talking many billions of dollars we were bor- cally responsible and we ought to be about accountability, not only at rowing from foreign central banks and accountable for how we spend our dol- home, but also in Iraq, and making foreign investors, and you can see how lars. sure that the hardworking people of it has gradually increased all of the This is really what my friend, Mr. this country are getting the most for way through 2006. their tax dollar. I don’t think that is ROSS, who is leading this special order Putting it another way, this Presi- asking too much. And I think it is very tonight, the point that he wants to dent has borrowed more money in the appropriate that on tax day we rise on make. That is that when we take dol- past 6 years from foreign central banks the floor of the House to demand ac- lars from the American public in the and foreign investors than the previous countability for how the American tax- form of taxes, and today is the day, 42 Presidents combined. You want to payer’s money is being spent. April 17, which happens to be—since talk about a national security risk, I With that, I yield to the gentleman yesterday was a holiday someplace, believe that alone is a national secu- from Florida, Mr. BOYD, the co-chair today is the day that our taxes are due. rity risk. for administration for the Blue Dog Co- When we take taxes from the American We are already 60 percent dependent alition. people, the American people expect us on foreign oil. We know that. We see it Mr. BOYD of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I to spend that money wisely and they every time we fill up at the pumps. want to thank my friend and counter- expect us to account for them and they And, Mr. Speaker, if we are not careful, part, Mike Ross from Arkansas, my fel- don’t expect us to waste those dollars. we are also going to become too de- low Member of the 43 Member strong That is why some of the things that pendent on foreign countries to fund fiscally conservative Blue Dog Coali- I have been seeing over the last several our government. tion. It is a group that I have been a years in the way that some of our Fed- I always enjoy David Letterman’s top member of all the years of my service, eral executive agencies have spent the 10 list. I have a top 10 list. My top 10 10 years of my service here in the money and been unable to account for, list tonight lists the foreign countries United States House of Representa- and I tell you, honestly, Mr. Speaker, that we have borrowed money from to tives, and it is a group that I am quite the Department of Defense probably is help fund tax cuts in this country for proud of their work on behalf of the the biggest offender as it relates to ac- people earning over $400,000 a year. American people. countability. Many of the dollars that That’s right, year after year, for the Mr. Speaker, like yourself, being we have appropriated over the years for past 6 years, we have continued to pass raised in Indiana and Mr. ROSS in Ar- the Iraq war, for instance, the Depart- tax cuts, not for working families, but kansas, I was raised in a little commu- ment of Defense cannot pass an audit for folks earning over $400,000 a year. nity in north Florida on a farm by par- or account for in how they were spent. We didn’t have a surplus, so where did ents who taught me very early that it I think you see one of the things that the money come from? It came from was important that we, as a family, is happening in the last several months our Nation borrowing to the tune of live within our means. We established since the election is that Congress is about a billion dollars a day.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.107 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3451 And before we borrow a billion a day, ways, it has just gotten out of hand. accountable to ensure they are getting we spend half a billion every day pay- We are paying so much money of our the most value for their tax dollars, ing interest on the debt we have al- tax dollars to pay the interest on the that we truly are doing things that will ready got, money that could go to our debt to foreign countries that we are honor their work and ensure that we veterans, to homeland security, to edu- borrowing from that it is really chang- leave this country just a little bit bet- cation, to health care. Some 10 million ing the face of America. ter than we found it for our children children in this country today are Tonight, Mr. Speaker, the timing is and our grandchildren. without health care. Instead, it is especially good because April 17 is the b 2045 going to pay interest on our national tax filing deadline for this year. As One of the leaders in the Blue Dog debt. Where did the money come from? Americans, we race to the mailboxes Coalition, in fact, one of the founders A lot comes from the Social Security with our taxes to meet the deadline, of the Blue Dog Coalition that has done trust fund. and it is important to note how our na- a lot in the area of accountability is The first bill I filed as a Member of tional debt affects each and every U.S. the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Congress was a bill to tell the politi- taxpayer. The average U.S. household TANNER), and at this time, I will yield cians in Washington to keep their devotes almost $2,000 a year in taxes to to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. hands off the Social Security trust pay interest on our national debt, TANNER). Thank you for joining me fund. Republican leadership for 6 years $2,000 a year just to pay the interest. this evening. refused to give me a hearing or a vote That is about twice the amount they Mr. TANNER. Mr. Speaker, well, on that bill. Now we know why: Be- pay in taxes to help fund the Depart- thank you very much. cause they were borrowing money from ment of Education, veterans’ health I wanted to come tonight and join the Social Security trust fund with ab- care, and homeland security programs. with my colleague, Mr. ROSS. I heard solutely no provision made on how the Under this administration’s budget, what you have been saying and I wish money is going to be paid back or when the picture only gets worse for Amer- this was not true, but all one has to do it is going to be paid back or where the ican taxpayers. By 2014, the GAO says is go to the Web site of the U.S. Treas- revenues are going to come from to pay that more than two-thirds of revenues ury and see for one’s self how much it back. will be required just to pay the interest money has been borrowed in the last 60 When you go to the bank to get a on our debt. Under this projection, net months from foreign sources, and I loan, the banker wants to know how interest would become the largest Fed- heard you address that point earlier. you are going to pay it back, when you eral spending program, larger than So- I want to talk about a bill that we in- are going to pay it back, and how much cial Security, larger than our defense troduced last Congress that the Blue you are going to pay back on a month- budget, and larger than Medicare and Dogs endorsed and that we hope to in- ly schedule, and so forth and so on. Medicaid combined. This defies com- troduce in the next few days in this But the top 10 list, these are the monsense and is not in line with our Congress; and hopefully we can pass it countries that the United States of national priorities. this time. An approach that faces this troubling It has to do with the subject of, the America has borrowed money from to theme of tonight’s Special Order with fund our government in these days of reality is long overdue, and in the first 100 days of this Congress, we have regard to accountability. And this is reckless deficit spending: not a Democrat or Republican bill. A Japan, $637.4 billion. proved that we are up to the challenge. We passed bills, Mr. Speaker, that ben- lot of times these Special Orders are China, $346.5 billion. utilized by people who want to come The United Kingdom, $223.5 billion. efit small businesses, and above all, we and blast the Democrats, if they are OPEC, yes, OPEC, our Nation, the passed a responsible budget. It funds Republicans, or Democrats who want United States of America, has bor- our top priorities, like strengthening to blast the Republicans on the other rowed $97.1 billion from OPEC. our military and our homeland secu- side, and that is not what this floor is Korea, $67.7 billion. rity. This is commonsense and this is Taiwan, $63.2 billion. for. Politics should end here. We all what the Blue Dogs stand for. We want represent people in this country in a The Caribbean banking centers, $63.6 to make a difference by requiring and billion. public office and, therefore, all of us demanding fiscal responsibility. represent not political parties in our Hong Kong, $51 billion. This also does something very impor- Germany, $52.1 billion. jobs here but citizens of this country. tant. It restores fiscal discipline and This accountability bill that I want And rounding out the top 10 coun- returns us to surplus by 2012. tries that the United States of America to talk about for just a few minutes, if Mr. Speaker, as American taxpayers, I may, has to do with demanding that has borrowed money from to fund our we send our hard-earned money to the those whom we appropriate money to, government, Mexico, $38.2 billion. IRS. They should know where it is It is time to restore fiscal discipline any administration, Democrat, Repub- going. Today, too much of it is going lican, does not matter, actually man- and accountability to our government. towards paying interest on our na- age the money so that we at least And a new member of the fiscally con- tional debt. With fiscal responsibility know where it goes. We may disagree servative Blue Dog Coalition who is and cost accountability in place, this as to how it is spent, but we at least, as helping us do that in this new Demo- Congress can change what is going on public officials, ought to have the re- cratic majority, we are demanding an- and bring real relief to America’s sponsibility for ourselves and those swers to tough questions, we are de- working families. whom we represent to understand and manding commonsense be restored in Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the appreciate what it is going for. our government. We are demanding gentleman from Ohio for his work We have here in Washington, the that this new leadership governs from within the fiscally conservative Demo- Congress has, an organization called the middle, which is where we are as cratic Blue Dog Coalition in trying to the GAO, General Accountability Of- Blue Dogs and where we believe the restore commonsense and fiscal dis- fice. The GAO is charged with the re- majority of Americans are, and the cipline to our national government, sponsibility, as a nonpolitical branch new Blue Dog member who is helping trying to give us a budget that will re- of the government, to audit, among us do that is the gentleman from Ohio turn us to the days of record surpluses other things, other responsibilities, (Mr. WILSON), and I yield to him at this instead of record deficits. Hopefully, as audit the various Federal agencies to time. a result of the budget passed on this see what they are doing with the Mr. WILSON of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, floor just in the last week, we will see money that we remove from people’s this is a taxing time for America. As a this number start back down once pockets involuntarily. And I heard you member of the fiscally conservative again, because it is important; it is im- mention tax day earlier. Today is tax Democrat Blue Dog Coalition, I wel- portant that we put an end to deficit day. We remove the money involun- come these opportunities to come to spending. tarily from the taxpayers, the citizens the floor and talk about fiscal responsi- One of the ways we do that is of this country, and then we appro- bility and what we need to draw our at- through accountability. Let me just priate to an administration, any ad- tention to in this Nation’s most press- say that if we are going to ask the ministration. ing problem. American people to get up and go to Well, the GAO does audits as part of Mr. Speaker, it is a skyrocketing na- work and pay taxes, we as a Congress their responsibility, and they have re- tional debt. As Congressman ROSS has should be held accountable and the var- ported to us that 18 of 24 Federal agen- pointed out and indicated in numerous ious Federal agencies should be held cies could not produce an acceptable

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.108 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3452 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 audit in fiscal year 2005, which is the it really has nothing to do with the The other thing is health care. We latest figures that we have. philosophy of the Blue Dogs in that we are going to be taking up SCHIP, it is Now, there is no private enterprise in believe we ought to work for the people called, which is basically children’s America that could withstand that that hired us, and that is the people in health insurance. We cannot afford in kind of either sloppy bookkeeping on our respective districts who have every this country, in my view, to leave it the one hand, to be charitable about it, right to expect that when we come better than when we found it with sloppy bookkeeping, or out-and-out here. We will not only be guardians of unhealthy, uneducated children, and so negligence, incompetence, fraud, what- the country in terms of funding what is what we are trying to do is stop this ever one wishes to call it. Eighteen of necessary for national defense, and we ever-increasing encroachment on the 24 could not do that. are very strong on that, as you know, tax base of interest so that we are ren- So last year, we, the Blue Dogs, de- but we also will try as best we can indi- dered unable as citizens to do the signed a bill that said when that hap- vidually and collectively as a body to things necessary to keep our country pens, when the Inspector General of see that the moneys that are being competitive in an increasingly any department or the GAO identifies spent are being spent in the best pos- globalized world. This is not just a any element or any agency of the Fed- sible way. hope. It is a necessity, in my view, that eral Government that cannot tell us I gave a talk at home over the Easter we be able to do that. what they did with the money that we recess, and I told them, I said there are So, as we talk about fiscal responsi- removed from people involuntarily in two things that are being witnessed bility, we talk about this unbelievable the form of taxation and appropriated here by this unbelievable not only borrowing that is taking place, what to them, this bill would provide that spending spree, but borrowing spree we are really talking about is bal- within 60 days Congress must, by law, that has gone on around here for the ancing the budget, not for the sake of hold a hearing to determine why it is last 60 months. We have transferred so balancing the budget, but for the sake they cannot account for the money much of our Nation’s treasure to inter- of stopping an ever-increasing en- that was appropriated to them or, in est, for which we get nothing, that we croachment on the tax base for which the alternative, if they cannot account are degrading basically the tax base to we get nothing. for it, then it is simple: They do not the point where I am afraid in the fu- Last year, this country sent overseas get it. ture our country will not be able to $145 billion thereabouts. That is almost That makes eminent sense to me as a make the two investments that I be- seven times as much as the so-called businessperson at home in Tennessee. I lieve are necessary for our Nation’s se- foreign aid bill. I do not particularly cannot imagine going to the comp- curity. like the way we do that, but at least troller or the treasurer of our business One is in the area of infrastructure. one can make some strategic decisions and saying, here is an expenditure of X One only need go to any country on the about money that is being appropriated amount of dollars, what did you do planet where there is no infrastructure, in the foreign aid bill in terms of with it, and they would respond, I do no highways, roads, bridges, water, whether or not it will advance the in- not know, I cannot tell you what hap- sewer, all of the things that private en- terests of the United States in a given pened to that. That would not be ac- terprise in this country can build part of the world. Interest checks, on ceptable in any private enterprise in around to create the economic oppor- the other hand, just go to whoever this country, and it should not be ac- tunity, the jobs, to create the com- bought our debt. That is a huge dif- ceptable here in the public domain be- merce that will result in further tax reference, and it is one I hope that people cause it is all of our moneys that we ceipts for more investment, whether it will relate to, understand, appreciate are talking about, 18 of 24. be for water and sewer and highways, and hold dear when they make the de- The other aspect of this bill is, in airports, bridges, roads, tunnels, any- cisions that they make with regard to government talk, when the GAO identi- thing like that, to see that the govern- who ought to be running our United fies a high-risk program, what they ment must make those investments so States Congress. mean is the program is being mis- that private enterprise can prosper. Again, this bill basically does not ad- managed, number one; or two, it is not Nobody is prospering in these coun- dress who controls the Congress or who doing what Congress intended it to do tries. We call them Third World coun- controls the White House. It simply when the law was passed. Pretty sim- tries, but they are nonetheless coun- says that all of us who come here as ple. It is either the program is not tries where there is no infrastructure. public servants ought to have that working or they cannot tell us what Nobody is doing any good because kind of responsibility to oversee and to they did with the money. In either there is nothing to build around to cre- look after the moneys that are re- event, Congress ought to hold a public ate the economic activity, the com- moved from people’s pockets involun- hearing so the people of this country merce that must go on to make things tarily in the form of taxation and ap- know that this program is either not happen. And so we are degrading our propriated to any administration. working or that it is being so badly tax base by this interest that we are 2100 mismanaged, by again any administra- now paying, for which we get nothing. b tion, that we need to stop the spending. The second thing is human capital. I think, and I am glad that the Blue I hope as we move through this Con- From my reading of history, there is Dogs share that philosophy and share gress that we will be able to actually no country in the history of civiliza- that opinion, because oftentimes, all enhance and improve on it; not only tion and mankind, or humankind, that you hear coming from these micro- that, but actually pass it into law. It has been able to maintain itself as a phones is, well, the Republicans are needs to be done. It has everything to strong and free country with an worse than the Democrats, the Demo- do with the trust that the American unhealthy, uneducated population. We crats are worse than the Republicans, people have placed in us when they are beginning to see the budget being and they did it to us, so we will do it voted for us to come here to this arena cut in areas where, number one, we to them. That is not getting us any- to transact their business on their behave to have public education because where. half. all of us, as American citizens, are We have much more serious matters One of the things I like so much charged with the responsibility not to discuss, and we ought to be talking about the Blue Dogs is that we have only for ourselves and our families, but about it in this Special Order. Tonight this quaint belief that the voting card we are charged with making decisions is one opportunity. I want to thank that all of us possess as Members of for our cities, counties, State and you again for allowing me this time to Congress belongs not to either party country. Without public education for talk about these, I think, critical mat- leadership but to the people who hired the literally millions of kids who may ters that affect us all. There is no Dem- us. That is, I believe, what the Found- not get that in their homes, because of ocrat or Republican; we are all Ameri- ing Fathers had in mind when they cre- various economic factors and other- cans. ated the People’s House. wise, we have to educate our citizens. As Americans, we are not doing what And so, therefore, when we have all Thomas Jefferson said it as well as we ought to do to do the things that I this talk about partisan politics here, anybody. heard ALLEN BOYD talk about awhile

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.110 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3453 ago about what our parents taught us: Also, if you have any questions, com- When I started looking at the Con- one, live within your means; two, pay ments on our Special Order this gress, and groups to associate yourself your debts; three, invest in the future. evening, I would encourage you to e- with, it became very easy when I found Unfortunately, we haven’t been doing mail us at [email protected]. out about the Blue Dog Coalition, the any of those, and it’s going to catch up That is [email protected]. fiscally conservative group of Mem- with us at some point if we don’t re- This is a Special Order being hosted bers, 43 strong now, that said we have verse it. by the fiscally conservative Demo- got to bring this place back to order. I We are trying, we need help doing it, cratic Blue Dog Coalition talking can remember a gentleman in Evans- but we are going to keep plugging away about issues that we believe are impor- ville, Scott Saxe, a gentleman I used to at it. tant to the future of this country. work out with at the Fitness Zone in I am very proud of this Special Order I am delighted to be joined this Evansville. He said, you know, I am a that you put together. I am actually evening by a new member of the Blue Republican, but this has gotten ridicu- really proud of the work that the Blue Dog Coalition from the State of Indi- lous, the way our country spends. He Dogs are doing. ana (Mr. ELLSWORTH). says, we have got to stop this insanity. Mr. ROSS. I thank the gentleman Mr. ELLSWORTH. Madam Speaker, I That is why I applied for this job, so from Tennessee for his insight and his had not intended to address the House, I could come be a part of that. People leadership on the accountability bill to the people’s House tonight. But as I sat come in my office every day, and good restore accountability to our national in the chair you sit in just a few min- people. I call them do-gooders, because government. utes ago, I looked out and listened to they are good people doing good things. Did the gentleman, I just want to the other Members and reflected on They are looking for that Federal help make sure I understood the gentleman why I was sent here just 90 days ago, or that we can give them. correctly, did the gentleman indicate a little longer, and thought that it was But we can’t give it unless we have that 18 of 24 major Federal agencies my duty to come down and talk. that money; we save it in the areas we can’t produce a clean audit of its As I heard Mr. BOYD from Florida ad- can save. It’s tough, because you know books? dress the group and talk about the way these people are out helping folks Mr. TANNER. That is according to he was raised in Florida, it was very every day. You want to give, because the GAO. There were six that were similar to the way Mr. ROSS was raised that’s the way America is. We give to compliant with the Federal manage- in Arkansas and the way I was raised people that are doing good, but it’s ment, financial management law. Com- in Indiana. It reminds me of a story tough, because we have got to make merce, Labor, the EPA, the National that I told a few times and PAYGO tough decisions. Science Foundation, the Office of Per- comes to mind. But in the 3 months that I have been sonnel Management, and the Social Se- I can remember when I was very here, now going on 4, I see examples curity Administration. every day of ways that we can cut the The ones who were not were Agri- young, probably in the 10-year-old range, having my eye on a Sting-Ray waste, fraud and abuse, the things that culture, Defense, Education, Energy, we are doing that the American people, Health and Human Services, Homeland bicycle at Sears and Roebuck in Evans- ville, Indiana, at the Washington when they hear about it in the Eighth Security, Housing and Urban Develop- District of Indiana, they get really Square Mall. Those back home will ment, Justice, Interior, State, Trans- upset, and they should, and that is why know what I am talking about. It was portation, Treasury, Veterans Affairs, I am here. Agency for International Development, a purple Sting-Ray, metal flake seat. I Just a few examples: when we send General Services Administration, Na- think they called it a banana seat, if I contractors, no matter how you feel tional Aeronautics and Space Adminis- remember it correctly. It had a sissy about the war in the Middle East, but tration, Nuclear Regulatory Commis- bar on the back and high-rise handle- when we send our contractors over on sion and the Small Business Adminis- bars. our dime, and they sit 9 months and tration. For anybody in that age group, you never lift a finger on the contracts There may be valid reasons why they will remember what I am talking they are hired for, that is money wast- could not tell us what they did, but we about. I can vividly remember that the ed that we could give, put to something ought to have a hearing and find out price tag was $55 for that bicycle. I re- else, education, to help people help what those reasons are. If they need member going home and asking my people. help to correct it, and legislation to do parents if I could have that bicycle. When we have pallets of money that so, then we at least would know that; They said, sure, when you save the $55, are lost, pallets, skid loads of $100 bills and we could begin to work on that to knock yourself out, you can go down that are lost, and we can’t find them? try to correct this problem. and do that. That is not why they sent me to Con- But to ignore it is, in my judgment, I cut grass, and I delivered papers gress. That is not what they expect us an act of irresponsibility by the Con- with my brother, and I had odd jobs to do, to lose millions of dollars on pal- gress and by the administration. until I saved the $55 and was able to go lets in the Middle East. Mr. ROSS. I thank the gentleman for down to Sears and purchase that bike. No-bid contracts, we have all heard his work on accountability within our That’s the way you did it back then. about those. Companies would be get- government, Mr. TANNER from Ten- You saved your money. You paid as ting Federal contracts that aren’t pay- nessee, one of the founders of the fis- you went. That’s the way you pur- ing their Federal taxes. I don’t think cally conservative Democratic Blue chased things. people mind paying taxes. They will Dog Coalition. Thank you for your That lesson stayed with me to this talk about it. But when they drive on leadership. Thank you for joining us on day. I am proud to display that poster I–70 through Terre Haute, or I–64 the floor this evening to talk about re- outside my hall, outside my office in through the northern part of storing common sense, accountability, the Cannon Building. Vanderburgh County or I–164, they ap- and fiscal discipline to our national But it’s also a stark reminder, when preciate those roads. government. we are talking about trillions of dollars When the FBI or Federal law enforce- Madam Speaker, as you walk the of debt, that every Member of this ment agency does something good for Halls of Congress, again, it’s easy to country, every man, woman and child, them or the Border Patrol keeps their know when you are walking by the of- that their part of the national debt is borders safe, they don’t mind paying fice of a fellow Blue Dog member, be- $29,465, is a stark reminder of the work taxes for that. But when they are get- cause you will see this poster remind- we have to do. ting ripped off or losing money and are ing the American people, reminding When I was asking people to hire me doing no-bid contracts, and we have the Members of the Congress that for this job, I can remember a couple of companies being awarded Federal con- today the U.S. national debt is things they told me they wanted before tracts and not paying their Federal $8,887,793,986,597 and some change. For they would send me here that they taxes, is just plain wrong. It’s not why every man, woman and child in Amer- wanted me to guarantee them, that I they sent me here. It’s not why they ica, their share, your share, of the na- would be honest, and I would be fair, sent any of us here, and they want us tional debt is $29,465. and I would be fiscally conservative. to stop.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.112 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3454 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Single-source contracts, let’s take, that they could be deployed to Iraq by tion into whether the U.S. Army is for example, our military plants, and the end of the year. It will be their sec- using the most effective body armor for there are two companies that make the ond deployment. I was there in Bagh- our troops’ protection. We need an un- engines, but we award to one single dad visiting them August 11, 2004, on biased external investigation to deter- source. It’s wrong. Competition is their previous deployment, soldiers mine whether the IBA is the most ef- healthy; we need to do it. It’s why I am from my hometown, soldiers from fective armor available. And if addi- proud to join the Blue Dog Coalition. throughout my district, people that I tional testing reveals that Dragon Skin This Congress, both sides of the aisle, used to teach in Sunday school and body armor or any other brand is the needs to work together to bring some people that, well, I have duck hunted superior product, then it should be pro- sense, some common sense and fiscal with. vided to our troops. accountability back to these Halls so b 2115 I am extremely grateful to Mr. Grant that we can go back to our districts, for bringing this issue to my attention, And they will be returning again, proud, Republicans and Democrats as there is no greater obligation we perhaps by the end of the year, and I alike, saying we are spending your have to our troops, who risk their lives believe that we owe it to this soldier, money wisely, we are spending it hon- on a daily basis, than to supply them his family, and all soldiers and their estly and fiscally and conservatively. with the most advanced technology families, to ensure that our troops are Mr. ROSS. I thank the gentleman and resources available. given the finest armor and equipment from Indiana, a new member of the fis- I believe that we must demand that available. the most stringent test possible be con- cally conservative Blue Dog Coalition This issue specifically involves the for joining me this evening and being a U.S. Army’s recent testing and com- ducted to resolve whether our troops part of this discussion on how we re- parison of Pinnacle Armor’s so-called are being given access to the absolute store common sense, fiscal discipline, Dragon Skin body armor and the Inter- best body armor available. What might and accountability to our government. ceptor Body Armor, often referred to as have been good in 2003 might very well Mr. TANNER said it very well earlier IBA, currently in use by the Armed be outdated today. My only goal is to in the evening when he said the Amer- Forces. Because of equipment short- protect our troops in harm’s way by en- ican people are sick and tired of all the ages in 2005, some troops purchased suring that they receive the most ad- partisan bickering that goes on at our equipment at their own expense, in- vanced body armor on the market Nation’s Capitol. I can tell you those of cluding body armor, and Congress en- today as they carry out their mission. us in the Blue Dog Coalition, we don’t acted legislation to reimburse these May God bless our country, may God care if it is our idea or the Republican soldiers. However, months later, the bless and keep our soldiers safe. idea. We are looking for commonsense Army issued a ‘‘safety of use message,’’ f ideas, ideas that promote account- which instructed all commanders to THE OFFICIAL TRUTH SQUAD ability, ideas that make sense for the ensure that only IBA brand is used by The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. CAS- people back home. soldiers, prohibiting the use of any TOR). Under the Speaker’s announced Now, there are others that will come other body armor. to this floor and talk about the Demo- The Army’s ‘‘safety of use message’’ policy of January 18, 2007, the gen- crats being bad on this or so forth and also dispelled recent reports that Drag- tleman from Georgia (Mr. PRICE) is rec- so on, and there are Democrats that on Skin was superior to the IBA, citing ognized for 60 minutes as the designee will talk about the Republicans being that Dragon Skin has failed various of the minority leader. bad on this or so forth and so on, but tests and therefore does not meet the Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Madam the American people are sick of that. Army’s requirements for soldier body Speaker, thank you so very much. The American people get it. They rec- armor protection. Before I begin, I do want to just say ognize that we are all Americans first Military support organizations, such that our hearts, our thoughts, and our and we are in this together. as Soldiers for the Truth, of which Mr. prayers are with all at Virginia Tech Talking about accountability, this is Grant is a member, along with Dragon and in Blacksburg, Virginia, today. As a bipartisan issue that I would like to Skin manufacturer Pinnacle Armor, you know, Madam Speaker, an un- raise in the closing minutes of this argue that Dragon Skin did not fail speakable horror visited their campus, Special Order. The United States is any test. They have stated that the and it is absolutely impossible for any spending about $9 billion a month in testing was biased, and they continue of us to know what those who were di- Iraq, which translates to about $275 to stand behind their assertions that rectly connected to it are going million a day or $12 million an hour. Dragon Skin is superior to the IBA. through. We were so incredibly heart- However, even with all of this spend- They point out that Dragon Skin has ened by their convocation today as we ing, many believe that the U.S. Army also been approved and is used by the watched it, and we noted that Hokie is not providing our troops with the U.S. Air Force, the CIA, the NSA, the spirit is effervescent and incredibly most technologically advanced and ef- U.S. Department of Energy officials in supportive. We are all with the Hokie fective body armor available. Iraq, the U.S. Secret Service Presi- Nation today. We wish them the best If you ask 100 different people what dential Protection detail, some Special and know that they are comforted by they think about this post-war Iraq Forces units, and various police depart- each other and by God’s amazing grace. policy, you get about 100 different an- ments and SWAT teams around the Na- Madam Speaker, it is a great privi- swers. But I can tell you that there is tion. However, our troops cannot pur- lege for me to come to the floor again one thing that all of us, Democrat and chase or use this body armor. I have this evening. I want to thank the lead- Republican, should remain united on, even been informed that, as a result of ership for the opportunity to share and that is funding and supporting and this message, if a soldier purchases and some comments and to discuss an issue properly equipping our men and women uses any armor other than the IBA, that our friends just finished talking in uniform. This war has affected all of this action will be construed as though about a little bit. us. My brother-in-law is in the United the soldier has disobeyed a direct order This is a remarkable day every year. States Air Force. He is in the Middle and could, could, jeopardize his or her Madam Speaker, as you know, today is East region this evening. family receiving service group life in- once again the day when Americans Let me tell you that 2 weeks ago, one surance if killed in combat. reach deep into their pockets and they of my constituents, Mr. John Grant of It is not certain whether this is true, pay Uncle Sam. Many Americans may Hot Springs, Arkansas, brought this but if it is, I completely disagree with be filling out their tax forms right issue to my attention. Mr. Grant has this policy and believe that our combat now, or they have just finished slog- become an expert on the types of body soldiers should not be denied the use of ging through the maze of the Tax Code armor that are currently available in the latest and most effective body jargon and crunching numbers and fill- the market due to the fact that his armor if it will result in the preserva- ing out form after form after form. And youngest son serves in the Army Na- tion of their lives. today, Americans all across this Na- tional Guard’s 39th Infantry Brigade. Therefore, for the protection of our tion will once again trust Washington Arkansas’ 39th was recently informed troops, I am calling for a full investiga- with their money, because today is tax

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.113 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3455 day. It is usually April 15; by a couple appropriate policy for our Nation? tionally conservative, they are fiscally different factors it became April 17 this Should we be modifying things? Should conservative. They are conservative on year. But nonetheless, Madam Speaker, we be changing things? Should we be social issues. it is tax day. potentially more fair to the American And we had the gentleman from Ar- And I would suggest, Madam Speak- people? What should we be doing? kansas, we had a Member from Ten- er, that Americans are fed up with the And so we will be joined tonight by a nessee, we had a Member from Indiana, status quo of today, and I and many of number of colleagues. One of my good we had a Member from Ohio. It doesn’t my colleagues believe that Americans friends and fellow colleagues from surprise me that they would be sound- deserve a different tomorrow. They de- Georgia is Congressman PHIL GINGREY. ing like Republicans, because many of serve a tomorrow where they won’t be Congressman GINGREY is a fellow phy- them represent Republican-leaning, taxed from the day they are born until sician, represents a district right out- typically traditional districts. And the day that they die and at every sin- side of the city of Atlanta. I served when we earn back our majority, gle point in between. with him in the State senate, and it is Madam Speaker, I think that the Blue Americans deserve a tomorrow where a privilege to serve with him here in Dogs that we are hearing from, the five saving and investing are virtues, not the United States Congress. He is one by tonight, there are a total of 43, vices. Americans deserve a tomorrow of the true fiscal conservatives, an in- many of them would make great red where taxation brings efficient and re- dividual who understands and appre- dogs; and I look forward to the day sponsible representation, and they de- ciates the importance of tax revenue, that they join us. serve a tomorrow where, when the yes, but also the importance of fairness But, Madam Speaker, in the mean- American people do their part, they on the part of our Federal Government. time, I think that I need to talk to understand that paying their fair share So I am pleased to welcome my good them about their math a little bit. is enough. And they deserve a tomor- friend from Georgia, Congressman They spent some time talking about row where the government respects GINGREY. the debt and the fact that all of this their hard work and appreciates their Mr. GINGREY. Congressman PRICE, I money that we have had to borrow, sacrifice. Only then, Madam Speaker, thank you so much for letting me join this $8.8 trillion worth of debt, comes will tomorrow be any different than with you and the Truth Squad in talk- from foreign countries. The gentleman today. ing about the real truth in regard to from Arkansas listed, I think, the top We are going to talk and discuss this what burdens are on the American peo- nine. And they want to imply that all evening the issue of taxes, the tax ple, particularly on this day, tax day, of the debt is money that we have had structure that we have in our Nation April 17. And it reminds me that there to borrow from rogue nations, if you that supports so many, many things. is another date coming up pretty soon, will. But they are not rogue nations. We are going to talk about its fairness and I think that is on April 22, and that or lack of fairness. We are going to is called tax freedom day. And that day b 2130 talk about the amount of money that gets later and later in the calendar But the point I want to make, is received and whether or not there year each and every year. That is how Madam Speaker, is that only about 25 are any options. long a person has to work to pay their percent of that debt is held by any for- We are going to talk about positive tax burden, not only to the Federal eign nation, whether we are talking solutions. And as we do so, we like, Government but to local and State and about Germany or France or Spain or when we come to the floor, to talk the entire tax burden. Almost a third Portugal or, yes, China or India. Sev- about facts. I want to talk about facts. of the year, Madam Speaker, people enty-five percent of that debt is held And I will remind my colleagues of one have to work to pay the tax burden. by my mom and my dad and our Blue of our favorite quotes. One of my favor- So we in the Republican Party feel Dog grandparents and corporate Amer- ite quotes comes from Senator Daniel very strongly that we need to cut ica and the United States citizens. Patrick Moynihan who said that ‘‘Ev- taxes, simplify taxes, lower taxes. And Americans borrow or lend that money eryone is entitled to their own opinion, we can do that, and we have done that. to the United States Government be- but they are not entitled to their own We did it in 2001, we did it in 2003. And cause they have faith in the full credit facts.’’ And so it is, Madam Speaker, while we heard from our friends on the of this great country. So this implica- that as we come and talk about facts other side of the aisle in the previous tion that only rogue nations are will- as they relate to taxes, it is important hour, the so-called Blue Dog Coalition, ing to borrow money or lend money to that we use correct figures, that we use in regard to the costs to the revenue this country is totally ludicrous. accurate figures. stream of the tax cuts, saying that we And if the gentleman from Georgia, One of the figures that I ran across only cut taxes for people making more my good friend and colleague, Dr. when looking at the tax issue and real- than $400,000 a year, when in fact, PRICE, will indulge me for a few min- izing how large our government has Madam Speaker, everybody who pays utes, I want to also point out another grown and how many taxes the Wash- taxes got a tax cut under the tax cut very, very misleading figure. They take ington government takes, in 2005 the provisions that this President and the that debt, that $8.8 trillion worth of Federal Government took in about $2.4 former majority, the Republican Party, debt that has accumulated over a num- trillion. That is an awful lot of money, enacted for the American people. ber of years. Madam Speaker, and it is sometimes And while, when you crunch the Don’t forget, Madam Speaker, and hard to kind of get your arms around numbers, that was estimated to cost my good friends on the other side of what that actually means. Well, in a $1.3 trillion, or $130 billion each and the aisle, they controlled this place for relatively short period of time, less every year over a 10-year period of 40 years. And that $8.8 trillion worth of than 50 years, what that means, based time, because supposedly you would be debt didn’t just occur overnight. upon accounting for inflation and ac- taking in less revenue, in fact it stimu- But they take 300 million people, counting for growth, is that that lated the economy; and over a 21⁄2 year man, woman and child, the population amount of money is larger than the en- period of time, the amount of revenue of this great country, and they divide tire U.S. economy was in 1959. So in that came into the Federal Govern- it into $8.8 trillion, and they come up less than one person’s lifetime we have ment actually increased by $250 billion. with $27,000 worth of debt for every grown the amount of tax revenue, and So our good friends, the Blue Dogs, man, woman and child in this country. this is in constant dollars, real dollars, play a little bit loose with the truth in Well, Madam Speaker, what is the we have grown the amount of tax rev- regard to their calculus. And really it gross domestic product, the wealth of enue larger than our entire govern- is not calculus, Madam Speaker, it is this country? I think 2006, maybe ment was and the economy was in 1959. simple math. The gentlemen that would be the last figure that I have, it So it is truly remarkable. spoke, the four or five of them in the was about $13 trillion. So you divide And what that brings about, Madam previous hours, our friends, the Blue that same number into the gross do- Speaker, is that we ought to be, as rep- Dogs, they would make great red dogs. mestic product, you could say that the resentatives of the people, asking ques- They come from States that the so- share of the wealth of this country of tions. Is that appropriate? Is that an called Blue Dog Democrats are tradi- every man, woman and child is $44,000.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.115 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3456 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 So, like I say, they are playing a lit- good friends who have joined me this need to sunset this awful Tax Code and tle loose with the numbers, and they go evening. Oftentimes, Madam Speaker, replace it with something far more on and talk about this budget resolu- you hear people say, well, the wealthy simple, like a flat tax or my pref- tion that they have got and how they in this Nation don’t pay any taxes, or erence, a retail sales tax. And I love are going to balance the budget and they get a remarkable tax benefit, that the retail sales tax because, can you have no deficit over a 5-year period of they are given favored treatment. You imagine, can you imagine never having time and actually have a little bit of hear that oftentimes by our friends on to fill out a tax return again in your money in the bank in 2012. the other side. lifetime? Never. Can you imagine the How do they do that, Madam Speak- This chart, Madam Speaker, really IRS being completely, totally out of er? They do it by letting the tax cuts of points out the truth. These are actual your life forever? the Republican majority and our Presi- numbers and actual facts. And that is And as we talk about how complex dent expire. The decrease in the mar- that the top 1 percent of wage earners this code is, let’s not forget we need to ginal rate for every person that is pay- in this Nation, the top 1 percent, pay keep our taxes low. Tax Freedom Day ing taxes, the increase, the doubling of 36.9 percent of the taxes. That is, the for Texas families is this Thursday. the child tax credit, the elimination, top 1 percent pay 36.9 percent of the And that is the first day since New and once again, reinserting the mar- taxes. If you take the top 10 percent of Year’s that Texans will start working riage tax penalty, and that is total, wage earners in this Nation, the taxes for themselves and not for the govern- when you add up every one of those tax that they pay, the total revenue that ment. For the rest of the country, on cuts that we enacted that they intend they pay in terms of taxes for this Na- average, you have still got two more to let expire in 2010 and 2011, it is a tion, 68.2 percent. And the top half, the weeks, April 30. In fact, most families total, I think, and my colleague from top 50 percent pay 96.7 percent of the in America will get to the fifth month Georgia and my other colleagues that tax revenue that comes into this Na- of the year. Can you imagine? The fifth are here tonight will agree, almost $400 tion. Madam Speaker, that is a fact. It month of the year before they stop billion. And I think that is the largest is important to appreciate that because working for the government and start tax increase on the people of this coun- our good friends on the other side of working for their dreams, for their try in the history of this country. the aisle so often want to play class families, for what they want to accom- So here, again, I thank the gen- warfare. They want to pit one side plish in life. And I think most of us tleman from Georgia for bringing out against the other. And what this shows would feel better if we felt that Wash- the truth once again, as he does so well very, very clearly is that individuals ington wasn’t wasting so much of our in the Truth Squad’s discussions. And I all across this Nation are paying their hard-earned money. thank him for letting me weigh in a fair share and then some. My families are worried that the new little bit tonight. And with that I will I have been joined by many good Democrat budget allows President yield back to the gentleman from friends who will comment about var- Bush’s tax relief to expire, which would Georgia. ious aspects of our tax system and tax increase taxes on families in Texas Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I thank my policy, as well as the budget that has $2,700 a year; $2,700 more for each, a good friend and colleague from Georgia been proposed. And right now I would typical Texas family. for your comments, for your perspec- like to ask a good friend from Texas to I talked over the April work period tive, and for the truth and the facts join me, and look forward to his com- with Kirk and Sandy Noyes of the that you bring to the table, and you ments, Congressman KEVIN BRADY from Woodlands; visited with Marty and Ty mentioned a number of them. I would Texas, who has a wonderful business Drake in their home in Livingston; just like to highlight two of them be- background and appreciates the impor- Buck and Ava Anderson of Cleveland in cause they are incredibly important, tance of appropriate government policy their living room; sat down in the Madam Speaker, for the American peo- and making certain that we allow all kitchen with Ed and Connie Heiman of ple to appreciate. The first is that Tax Americans, all Americans, the greatest Magnolia; Elmer and Pauline Hensley Freedom Day. We talk about tax day, opportunity in this wonderful Nation. of Lumberton; Pat and Ashley Canfield but Tax Freedom Day has yet to ar- Congressman BRADY, thanks so much of Huntsville. We talked about what rive. Depending on what State you are for joining us. that $2,700 would mean to their fami- in, I think the earliest State, Tax Free- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Well, thank lies, and they talked about the medical dom Day is April 22, which is next you. And I appreciate joining the two bills for their young children because week. But what that means, Madam gentlemen from Georgia who continue co-pays and deductibles add up so Speaker, is that every single American to look out every day for the family’s quickly. They talked about car insur- who has been working since the first of pocket books, rather than Washing- ance, how expensive that is. Marty the year, on average, every single one, ton’s pocket books, which I fear is too Drake is a police officer. He said, You is continuing to work from January 1 deep. And the point I always try to know, I will work overtime, all of my until now, through at least April 22 to make, I am in my 11th year in Con- high school football games, use all that pay the taxes that they owe. They gress, serve on the Ways and Means money just to pay that extra bill. haven’t even started to work for them- Committee, have worked on all of One woman, who is it? Connie selves or their family. Madam Speaker, President Bush’s tax relief. And I am Heiman in Magnolia, she works at a that is a tax system that is broken and convinced that Washington has all the doctor’s office just so she can pay the flawed. money it needs. It just doesn’t have all health care. And she said, We don’t The other fact that you brought out, the money it wants. And there is a big have any extra money. And her hus- my good friend from Georgia, Congress- difference between the two. band runs the flooring store in Mag- man GINGREY brought out, was that the And tonight, as you and I talk, mil- nolia. He said, I can’t work longer. I proposal that was passed on this floor lions of Americans are scrambling at work 61⁄2 days a week as it is. just a little over two weeks ago by our the last minute to file their taxes, And my belief is that we are, despite friends on the other side of the aisle, rummaging through cabinets and draw- what Washington thinks, we are an many of whom call themselves Blue ers and bank statements, anxious to overtaxed Nation. And all you need to Dogs. We are checking to make cer- try to comply with the complicated do is look at your own day to under- tain, Madam Speaker. We think they Tax Code. And they are willing to pay stand it. We wake up in the morning, are probably lap dogs because of the their fair share. But our code is so get in the shower, we pay a water tax. bills that they have been supporting. complex that they worry. We grab a cup of coffee, pay a sales tax. And one of them was this budget that Paying taxes is bad enough. But the Drive down to work, pay a fuel tax. At was passed that will result in a $400 bil- time wasted in figuring them is almost work we pay, not just payroll tax but lion tax increase for the American peo- worse. You shouldn’t need an account- income tax as well. Get home at night, ple, the largest tax increase in the his- ant to do your taxes, and you shouldn’t flip on the switch, walk in the door, tory of the Nation. That is a fact. live in fear of just making an honest turn on the lights, pay the electricity I want to mention a couple of other mistake. For our sanity’s sake, and I tax, pick up the phone, pay a telephone facts and then call on a couple of other think for our children’s sake, we really tax, turn on the TV, pay cable tax, kiss

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.116 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3457 our wife goodnight, pay a marriage of making certain that we don’t over- didn’t support it, but once we got penalty tax and we do that every day tax our Americans all across this Na- George Bush in office in 2001, he proof our life. And when we die, we pay a tion. I welcome you. I look forward to posed a massive tax cut. death tax. We are an overtaxed Nation. your comments. What has that done? Well, the Demo- And in my belief, we need to con- Mr. MCHENRY. I thank my good crats say that it is not enough money tinue, not just for our economy, but for friend from Georgia, Dr. PRICE. Thank coming into government. Well, they our families, we need to continue you for your leadership and for being are wrong. They are absolutely wrong. President Bush’s tax relief because our here on the floor and being so active. The Democrats are wrong when they families can’t take this extra hit. The Your constituents should be proud of say government doesn’t have enough marriage penalty will come back to you. And I thank them for electing money. life. That is wrong. In fact, Ways and you. Just this last year, government in- Means, and I will finish with this, be- Madam Speaker, here on Tax Day, in come amounted to over $2.4 trillion. cause we have other Members who need 2007, I hearken back to the words that Now, let’s put this in historical con- to visit as well. But we did the tax re- Ronald Reagan said. He said, our Fed- text. That is the largest income to any lief not for grins and giggles, but for eral Tax Code is, in short, utterly im- government in the history of the plan- two important reasons. One was fair- possible, utterly unjust, and com- et. Now, let’s think this thing through. ness. The marriage penalty is unfair. pletely counterproductive. It reeks $2.4 trillion, is that enough to fund our The death tax is unfair. The State and with injustice and is fundamentally un- Federal bureaucracy? According to the local sales tax structure, it was unfair American and has earned a rebellion, Democrats, the answer is ‘‘no.’’ They for other States to have an advantage. and it is time we rebelled. want more. They want the American And another reason is to spur this people to give more to the Federal Gov- b 2145 economy. After 9/11, we took three big ernment. hits: 9/11, the recession and the wonder- That is a quote from Ronald Reagan Let’s put that $2.4 trillion in context. ful Enrons and WorldComs of the in 1983. Well, there are only two countries on world. Our economy took huge hits. We Well, I think it is high time we rebel. Earth that have economies larger than targeted tax relief, and we have had 40 Today is one day in every American’s our Federal Government. Aside from straight months of job growth, created life where they realize how complex ours, Germany and Japan are the only 7.5 million new jobs. We are going to and how horrible our Federal Tax Code countries on Earth that have econo- risk that? We are going to risk this is. The Tax Code stands at an aston- mies larger than our Federal income. strong economy raising taxes on fami- ishing 16,485 pages in length, and there Now, the scary part is that Germany lies and small businesses? It doesn’t are 1,638 different tax forms on the only barely beats the Federal Govern- make sense. My belief is Washington IRS’s Web site. That is outstandingly ment with its roughly similar size needs to tighten its belt before we ask horrible for the American people. economy. our families and small businesses to In 2006, the average taxpayer spent There is a lot of talk about how the tighten theirs. 37.8 hours crunching numbers to com- Chinese economy is booming and it is Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I thank the plete even the most basic tax form, on the rise. Well, it is true and it is a gentleman from Texas for his wonder- Form 1040. That is nearly an entire big threat to our jobs here in the ful summary of the remarkable taxes work week spent in filing taxes. Even United States, and it is a big economic that each and every one of us are ex- worse, small businesses spend about 80 concern for us as a nation. But the Chi- posed to on a daily basis, everything hours in preparing their tax returns. nese economy, though booming, is only we do. And that is why I say that the That is a 2-week vacation for the aver- $1.9 trillion, and that means it is a half American people deserve more than age working American family. trillion dollars smaller than our Fed- that. They deserve a government that And, in total, the American people in eral income. The total gross domestic is more fair than that, especially in the a recent poll think the Tax Code is ob- product of China is smaller than the in- area of taxation. The $2,700 for each in- scene. Eighty percent think the Tax come to our Federal Government. dividual in Texas is about what they Code is too complicated while only 3 So, Madam Speaker, if we look at a would pay, if the policies of the other percent believe the Tax Code is just recent poll by Pew Research, people side go through, about what they would fine the way it is. I concur with that 80 were asked what they thought was the pay in the State of Georgia as well. percent, Madam Speaker. best way to reduce the Federal deficit, And the folks have a lot of ability to Although just empowered a few and in that poll the result was pretty figure out what they ought to do with months, the new Democratic majority simple. Only 9 percent said that tax in- that money and a greater priority that in the House with our new Speaker, creases were the best way. A combined they ought to do with that money, as they have proposed the largest tax in- 69 percent said they would rather see opposed to what the government ought crease in American history. The larg- government reduce spending. Now, not to do with that money. So as most peo- est tax increase in American history. only do I agree with the 80 percent of ple understand and appreciate, they They propose a $2,066,675,000,000 tax in- the American people that say the Tax know how to spend their money better crease. What does that mean for the Code is too complex, that it is obscene; than the Federal Government. average American? Well, the average I also agree with that 69 percent that And somebody mentioned earlier American, a family of four making say the way to reduce government is to today that the Federal Government, $50,000 a year, will see a tax hike of reduce spending. That is pretty simple. whenever they do anything on behalf of roughly $2,092 this year. What is worse It is common sense to the American the American people, it costs three is that my constituents back home in people. times as much as it would in the pri- North Carolina will see an average tax Madam Speaker, I urge this Demo- vate sector. So that even gets to the increase of $2,671 per year. That is crat majority to rethink their tax in- point more about what the facts of the money they could be spending on edu- crease strategy, because it is going to situation are and why they belie what cation. That is money they could be raise taxes on every American who we are doing, why they would draw spending on their kids. That is money pays taxes. And, furthermore, those anyone to the appropriate conclusion they could be spending in their commu- that are in the low income of our econ- that we are taxed too much as a Na- nity. Instead, the Democrats want that omy are actually going to see their tion. money to come here to fund the bloat- taxes increase as well because they are I have got a few other folks who have ed bureaucracy in Washington, D.C. going to roll back all the Bush tax cuts joined me, and I appreciate it so much. Now, you understand the Republicans over the last 7 years. I think that is the And I am joined by my good friend have cut taxes over the last decade, wrong thing for the American people. from North Carolina, Congressman and that is very positive. Actually, as It is the wrong thing for my constitu- MCHENRY, who also is an individual the Republican majority for 12 years, ents of western North Carolina. And I who has served in the State legislature we proposed a tax cut every year. think that that is something that is and knows well the importance of fis- Every single year we proposed that. going to harm our economy, the cal responsibility and the importance Now, Democrat President Bill Clinton strength of our growing economy. So I

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.117 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3458 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 think the Democrats should rethink am I going to hire that next person or President Reagan, and it has worked their tax increase strategy and do what am I going to have to lay somebody for President Bush. This is bipartisan. is right for the American people. Re- off? Am I going to be able to afford an- We all ought to understand that keep- form the Tax Code. Cut taxes at the other machine to be more productive ing taxes low, keeping spending low, very least, but reform the Tax Code so so I can grow the business and be good the economy will grow and the coffers we can actually inject more capital for the economy? We understand that of government will grow. I think that into the marketplace and allow people as Americans. is a good thing. to keep more of what they earn be- Today, tax day, families across We should all work to make the suc- cause it is good for their families and America are feeling the cost of the cessful tax cuts of 2001 and 2003 perma- good for our economy, and I think it is Federal Government. I know we feel it. nent. If they are not made permanent, generally good for America. I know the American people are feeling which I am convinced that this new With that, I thank you, Congressman it. It is one of the reasons I decided to ‘‘hold on to your wallet Congress’’ has PRICE, for hosting this important hour, run for Congress. I did own a small in mind, we are going to have a prob- especially on such an important day to business, and I have actually owned a lem in our economy. For example, 84 the American people when they have to couple. I grew up in a small community million women will see their taxes in- go file those tax returns. We know how in a little county called Unicoi County creased by $1,970. Now, we all say here frustrated they get because we have to in East Tennessee, up in the mountains for the low and middle income, but if file those same tax returns, and it is near North Carolina. And I worked my you are a woman, with this new tax in- important that we remind our conway through college. I actually worked crease of $400 billion, your average tax stituents that we are subject to the two jobs, went to school full time, and is going to go up $1,970. same laws that they are, and that is a was fortunate enough from that to We are going to see 48 million mar- very good thing and a great motivation start some businesses. And I sold one of ried couples’ taxes increased by $2,726. for tax reform. those businesses. It seems inherently unfair to me. Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Madam And one of the reasons I decided to Forty-two million families will see Speaker, I thank my friend from North run for Congress was because the gov- their taxes go up by $2,084. And I Carolina and I appreciate his perspec- ernment took too much of my money. thought we were here for the low and tive. And I think he said a couple of And I really looked at it as being my middle income. These are the people important things. One was that he money because I earned it. My wife and that are paying taxes. pointed out that the average American I started the business. We took the Twenty-six million small business spends almost 40 hours preparing his or risk. We put our home up. If that busi- owners will see a devastating tax inher taxes. That is one whole week’s ness hadn’t succeeded, the bank could crease of $3,637. The small business worth of work. That is 2 percent of the have come and taken our home. And owner that runs the little store down productive time of each and every when I sold the business, I should have the street or creates five jobs on the American spent just on the unproduc- been able to keep the proceeds and corner, who probably employs some of tive activity of preparing their tax re- take care of my two children. It your friends in your local community, turns. If that doesn’t scream for re- shouldn’t have gone to the govern- they are going to see their taxes go up form, Madam Speaker, I am not sure ment. And I decided that I needed to over $3,600. And where are they going what does. get involved. to get that $3,600 to send up to Wash- I am pleased to be joined by another According to the Congressional Re- ington? They are going to get it from good friend, a new Member of Congress, search Service, President Bush’s pro- you, the American people. They are a freshman Member from Tennessee, gram of comprehensive tax relief was going to either increase the cost of Congressman DAVID DAVIS, who I know well timed to respond to a weak econ- goods and we are going to see inflation, has run a business and understands the omy. Do you remember back in the or they are going to decide they can’t importance of the economy’s being vi- early 2000s we had just been hit by ter- hire that last employee or maybe they brant, of the appropriate level of taxes rorist extremists, and we had natural have to let that last employee go. not just for businesses but for individ- disasters. So those tax relief packages Five million low-income individuals uals. that he put in place have actually and couples will no longer be exempt And I appreciate your joining us to- worked. Tax relief enacted in 2001 from Federal income taxes. night and look forward to your com- granted immediate tax rebates, re- b 2200 ments. duced marginal tax rates, and lowered Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. the marriage tax penalty. The tax re- This is going to hurt the very people Madam Speaker, I thank the gen- lief of 2003 accelerated much of the 2001 that we say we are trying to help. tleman from Georgia for yielding. growth which would ultimately Again, we should work in a bipar- Congressman PRICE, you do such a strengthen our economy. tisan manner, Republicans and Demo- great job. Thank you for your leader- We are residing and living in a strong crats, to make sure that the tax cuts of ship. Thank you for your willingness to economy. The Republican tax cut relief 2001 and 2003 are made permanent. I am spread the truth. has seen nearly 4 straight years, 21 very concerned if we don’t do that, I welcome the opportunity to speak straight quarters, of economic growth, that we are going to see our economic to Americans on tax day. I know some while adding 7.5 million new jobs. growth go into a slide, and we are of us, as we draw near to midnight Seven point five million new jobs, that going to have a problem that we are here, a lot of people still working on excites me. And we were able to do going to have to deal with. those forms, trying to get them down that because people are allowed to Just two weeks ago, Washington to the post office. It reminds me of keep their money at home. Democrats passed a fiscal blueprint what Ronald Reagan said back in the You see, government really doesn’t that raises taxes on Americans in one early 1980s. Ronald Reagan said, ‘‘We create jobs. Government takes money. fell swoop. As part of this ill-gotten don’t have a trillion dollar debt be- But if you leave that money back in budget, taxpayers in Tennessee, my cause we haven’t taxed enough. We local communities, that money is put home State, will not be allowed to de- have a trillion dollar debt because we to work and it does good things. duct their sales tax from their Federal spend too much.’’ That seems like com- The Congressional Budget Office con- income tax, which is only fair because monsense to me, and I think the people firmed that the tax cuts of 2003 have we don’t have an income tax. It makes that are listening to us tonight under- helped boost the Federal revenues by 68 us equal with all the other States. stand that. They understand they have percent. Commonsense again. If you Taxes on small businesses in east Ten- to sit around the kitchen table and de- allow people to keep their tax dollars nessee will go up. The child tax credit cide how much money is coming in and at home, the economy grows. And this will decrease from $1,000 to $500. The how much money goes out. should be understood by both sides of marriage penalty is coming back. Resi- Small business owners have to do the the aisle. This actually works for dents of the First District of Ten- same thing. They sit around sometimes Democrats and Republicans. It worked nessee’s average expense in taxes is at a little break room table and decide, for President Kennedy, it worked for going up over $2,000. The definition of a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.118 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3459 small business will decrease from everybody knows that. They look for- ly so very sad that this Congress chose $400,000 to $200,000. Dividends will no ward to that day with dread. And I to let those tax deductions expire, longer be taxed at the personal gains have said so many times I think the which in effect will enact the largest rate, thereby increasing double tax- only thing good that happens that day tax increase in history on the Amer- ation of dividends by as much as 62 per- is my nephew, Chip Wedgeworth, has a ican people, all to put more into the cent. People all across America voted birthday every year on April 15. So coffers of a government so that the lib- for change, but they are not getting that is the highlight of our April 15. eral elites get their hands on it and the change they voted for. I think the reason that Americans they spend it. There again, the people We have a choice between bigger look at April 15 with that sense of know that they are overtaxed and they economy or bigger government, and dread is because they know, our con- know government is overspent. the majority party has made it their stituents know, that we are overtaxed. As we talk about what is before us choice to have a bigger government. They know that the government is today, I think that it is important. I And if anyone tells you that Americans overspent. It is plain and simple to was looking at one of the gentleman’s aren’t paying their fair share for a civ- them. They know that the government posters that he has down there about ilized society, they must remember does not have a revenue problem, mandatory spending growth. Isn’t it that Americans pay more in their taxes they’ve got a spending problem. And amazing that we see this mandatory than they do for housing, clothing and they never take the time to go through spending growth? The budget that our heating combined. And also remember the disciplines that are necessary to re- colleagues across the aisle, the Demo- that Americans this year will have to duce what the Federal Government crats, have chosen to pass makes our work until the last week of April in spends. Those are things that Amer- tax reductions temporary, makes tax order to pay their taxes. That is over ican men and women who are working relief for all of our families temporary, 114 days just to cover their tax bills. So know. They know that government is and makes spending permanent. on tax day, today, when we feel it the overspent; they know that they are Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Will the gen- most, everyone needs to remember, we overtaxed. They know that the govern- tlewoman yield? need to hold the line on spending, re- ment doesn’t have a revenue problem, Mrs. BLACKBURN. I would gladly yield. duce earmarks, and pass line item veto, that it has a spending problem. And Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I brought and crack down on worthless pork bar- Americans do mark this date on the along a number of charts. And we are rel spending and be good stewards of calendar. They resent what it stands not getting to a lot of them, but some the taxpayers’ money. And again I re- for. of them we will. mind you, Ronald Reagan said, ‘‘We I thank the gentleman from Georgia This chart is an important one be- don’t have a trillion dollar debt be- for what he is doing on this issue. cause this shows the mandatory spend- Madam Speaker, it is so nice to be on cause we haven’t taxed enough; we ing growth, something I like to coin have a trillion dollar debt because we this floor and be joined by my col- actually ‘‘automatic spending growth’’ spend too much.’’ leagues who are real people, who live because it is not mandatory. The Fed- And with that, I yield back. real lives, as the gentleman from Ten- eral Government has determined that Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I thank my nessee was talking about his business; that is where we are going to spend friend from Tennessee for his eloquent people that understand what it takes money. And it automatically increases. comments and for really bringing per- to start a business, to run a business, These are the automatic programs, spective to the issue. to maintain a business. They are not which are basically Social Security, It really befuddles me as to how our part of the liberal elite. They are part Medicare and Medicaid; and unless friends on the other side of the aisle of real people, this wonderful American they see reforms, what we will have can say that they need to raise taxes to middle class that makes this Nation seen from 1995 to 2017 is an increase raise revenue, because if you look at run. from 48.7 percent to 62.2 percent of our this chart, Madam Speaker, what you You know, I think another thing that economy. appreciate is that as revenues were kind of gets to people as they are sit- Mrs. BLACKBURN. If the gentleman going down in the early part of this ting there trying to get those taxes in will yield? decade, what the solution was, as it is the mail tonight and figure these forms Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I would be always a solution, is to lower taxes and out, these thousands upon thousands happy to yield. you allow people to keep more of their upon thousands of pages of the tax Mrs. BLACKBURN. I think what we hard-earned money. You put more form, you know, I had one of my con- see here is so important, and what money back in the pockets of Amer- stituents in a town hall meeting say he you’ve just said speaks to the issue. ican people and what happens? The couldn’t read the Tax Code, it was big- Because a budget should reflect not the economy flourishes, and lo and behold ger than the King James version of the priorities of the government, but the we have a record $2.4 trillion of revenue Bible and he has never been able to get priorities of the people. And what we to the Federal Government because of through the Bible, and so he definitely have seen in the budget that our decreased taxes. couldn’t get through the Tax Code. friends across the aisle brought that I am so proud to be joined by my That is how big and unwieldy this eliminated the tax reductions, that in- good friends tonight to talk about this thing has become. creased the taxes, that adds to that, issue. And we are pleased to welcome But they look at this and they know knowing that people are overtaxed, once again Congresswoman MARSHA that what we’ve got is a bureaucracy knowing that government is overspent, BLACKBURN from Tennessee, an indi- that is out of control. It is unrespon- is the fact that all of these automatic vidual who also knows and appreciates sive; it is out of control. And the lib- increases, mandatory spending growth, the importance of fiscal responsibility eral elites who have created this bu- not addressing entitlement reforms and the importance that allowing indi- reaucracy think they are smarter than that are needed, but allowing that to viduals to keep more of their hard- everybody else. They think that they be put on autopilot, and increase and earned money means to their own free- know what should be happening for and increase and making that spending per- dom and their own liberty. I welcome to the rest of the country. And you manent while you make the tax reduc- you and look forward to your com- know, I am right in there with them, tions temporary. ments this evening. don’t like that very much. Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Will the Mrs. BLACKBURN. I thank the gen- I think that our constituents all gentlelady yield? tleman from Georgia. know, too, that just as we are talking Mrs. BLACKBURN. I will yield. Madam Speaker, I thank you for the about, they know that they are over- Mr. PRICE of Georgia. This chart opportunity to be on the floor tonight taxed and government is overspent. really points that out, ‘‘Ignoring Enti- and talk a little bit about what the They know that government is never tlement Reform,’’ which is exactly hold-on-to-your-wallet Congress is going to get enough of their money. what occurred 21⁄2 weeks ago when our doing to Americans as we come to this And my colleague from Tennessee friends passed our budget. tax day. You know, we circle April 15 mentioned sales tax deductibility. When the Republicans were in on the calendar every year. I tell you, Madam Speaker, I think it is just real- charge, with the Balanced Budget Act

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.120 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3460 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 we passed in 1987 we saved nearly $130 Madam Speaker, the numbers on what $400 billion, and that is the way we will billion. With the Deficit Reduction Act has been proposed by our good friends balance the budget. just a few short years ago in 2005, about on the other side of the aisle when the Madam Speaker, there is another $40 billion. With the budget that was clock strikes midnight on December 21, way you can balance the budget, and adopted 21⁄2 weeks ago, none, zero. No 2010. that is by decreasing spending, and entitlement reform. No automatic They have proposed and they have that is what we would propose through spending reform. And consequently, enacted a budget that will result in in- a taxpayer bill of rights. what you know and what I know is creasing the ordinary income rates Fourth, we would propose funda- that we are on track to spend that 62.2 from 35 percent to 39.6 percent; increas- mental and fair tax reform. My good percent in a few very short years. ing capital gains from 15 percent to 20 friend from Texas mentioned earlier Mrs. BLACKBURN. The gentleman is percent; increasing dividends from 15 the proposal for a flat tax. That is one exactly right. That is why we have to percent to 39.6 percent; increasing es- way to do it. I support the fair tax, the look at that budget document on this tate taxes from zero percent to 55 per- national retail sales tax, something tax day and say, they laid the marker cent; decreasing the child tax credit that would do away with the IRS, do down. They showed us what their prior- from $1,000 to $500; and, amazingly, in- away with that organization that so ities are. Their priorities are a bigger creasing the lowest tax bracket from 10 many Americans dread and results in government and higher taxes on the percent to 15 percent. A remarkable so much pain and heartache on the American people. $400 billion in new taxes, a remarkable part of the American people. I would invite all of them to join us, display of, frankly, lack of apprecia- Finally, a taxpayer bill of rights that join us in reducing taxes. Join us in tion and lack of respect for the Amer- would require a supermajority for any making these tax reductions perma- ican worker. increase in taxes for our Nation, some- nent. Join us in making sales tax de- Now what is the solution? A lot of thing that was in effect until the very ductibility permanent. Join us in being things can be done. What we would pro- first day of this Congress when this certain that middle-class Americans pose and have proposed is something new majority said, ‘‘no,’’ we ought not get first right of refusal on their pay- that respects American values and I behave a supermajority to increase taxes, check, that it is not the Federal Gov- lieve results in increasing American vi- we ought to let a simple majority do it ernment that gets first right of refusal sion, and that is a taxpayer bill of which results in a huge opportunity for on that paycheck. Before those deduc- rights, a Federal taxpayer bill of an increase in taxation and has re- tions are taken out, let’s be certain rights. Many folks will recognize the sulted in, by this new majority, poli- that the American people have the op- sound of that because there are some cies which will significantly increase portunity to sit down at that kitchen States around this Nation that have in- taxes. table and decide how they are going to deed enacted a taxpayer bill of rights. So, Madam Speaker, what we have spend those hard-earned dollars, be- The problem at the State level, how- done tonight is outlined the problem, cause it is their work. ever, is that all they can address is outlined the history, talked about You know, American families, indi- State revenue, State money. what kinds of solutions can be pro- viduals in my district in Tennessee, we posed and what we would propose in 2215 talked a lot about taxes as we went b the way of an appropriate Federal tax- through this district work period. I had But, Madam Speaker, because of the payer bill of rights. one of my constituents stand up in one actions of our friends on the other side I would like to close with a quote of our meetings and he said, MARSHA, of the aisle and because they want to from Thomas Jefferson who had a per- I’ve got sweat equity in my paycheck; dig deeper, we believe strongly that a spective on taxation. He said: ‘‘To take I’ve got a lot of sweat equity in my taxpayer bill of rights is appropriate from one because it is thought his own paycheck when I get it. And it just for the Federal Government. We be- industry has acquired too much, in galls me every time I see a little bit lieve that taxpayers have a right to a order to spare others who have not ex- more of that paycheck going to Wash- Federal Government that does not ercised equal industry and skill is to ington, D.C. for programs that don’t grow beyond their ability to pay for it. violate arbitrarily the first principle of work. He talked about the spinach That means that the Federal Govern- association, the guarantee to everyone farmers and the fisheries and the pea- ment ought not grow more than the the free exercise of his industry and nut storage people and Katrina relief population grows or more than the cost the fruits acquired by it.’’ That was and all these things that were the of living increases, and that can be put Thomas Jefferson, Madam Speaker. waste; and the additions and the add- into law and that is what part of the Madam Speaker, each and every one ons and the pork barrel spending that taxpayer bill of rights does. of us is remarkably privileged to serve got put into the bill that would have We also believe that Americans have in this House of Representatives. It is funded our military. a right to receive back every single an honor to represent my constituents, On this tax day, as people are going dollar that they entrust to the Amer- as I know each Member feels it is an to the mailboxes tonight, they know ican people for their retirement. That honor to represent theirs. We live in a that they are not undertaxed, they are is the Social Security issue, Madam wondrous and glorious nation, the overtaxed. They know that government Speaker. Right now the Federal Gov- longest surviving democracy in the his- is not underspent, it is overspent. And ernment, right now Washington spends tory of the world, a nation that has re- they know that the Democrats laid money that the American people send sulted in, because of its actions, more down a marker. They made a choice to Washington to cover for their Social freedom and more prosperity for more when they did this budget. That budget Security compensation, and what does individuals than any nation in the his- choice was, do you want to stand with Washington do, oftentimes it spends it tory of mankind. the American families and let them on other programs. That is not right It is commonsense and responsibility have first right of refusal on that pay- and it is not fair. I hear about it when on behalf of the Members who rep- check, or do you want to give first I am back home, and I suspect you do resent all of the constituents across right of refusal to the bureaucrats and as well. this Nation that have resulted in those the liberal elites in Washington, D.C.? We believe taxpayers have a right to policies. I, as I know my colleagues And they made their choice. a balanced budget without raising who have been here this evening, look Mr. PRICE of Georgia. I thank the taxes. You can balance the budget in forward to working with Members on gentlewoman for her perspective and one of two ways. You can raise taxes to both sides of the aisle to bring about for her passion for appropriate policies try to increase revenue, which doesn’t that accountability and responsibility, here out of Washington on behalf of the actually work, but you can have it and to bring about the kind of credit American people. work on paper. You can increase taxes and honor to our constituents that And you’ve heard a lot about what and say, well, we will balance the budg- they so richly deserve by their labor. our friends on the other side of the et that way, which is what our friends Madam Speaker, I look forward to aisle have proposed. And it is impor- on the other side of the aisle have making certain that we hold each tant to the look at the numbers, done. They say we will increase taxes other accountable to establish the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.121 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3461 kinds of policies that are appropriate men and women made astonishing civil Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, first of and the kinds of policies that will re- rights advancements for their people all, I would like to thank our Chair of sult in the greatest amount of pros- through school desegregation, in vot- the Congressional Hispanic Caucus on perity and freedom for future genera- ing rights, and in basic civil rights. Veterans Affairs for addressing this im- tions of Americans. Powerful organizations grew out of portant issue of those men and women f this era, including the American GI who served during World War II, and Forum founded by Dr. Hector Garcia of that is our chairman, Ciro Rodriguez. REMEMBERING VICTIMS AT VIR- Corpus Christi in 1948 to advocate for It is important that people realize the GINIA TECH UNIVERSITY AND veterans’ rights. contributions of many of our Hispanics HONORING HISPANIC WORLD Another organization that came out who served during that period of time, WAR II VETERANS of the World War II generation of that we are visible and that we were The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. CAS- Latinos was the Mexican American not invisible during that period of time TOR). Under the Speaker’s announced Legal Defense and Education Fund in and that we made many contributions policy of January 18, 2007, the gen- 1968. This came about after Mexican to this country during that period of tleman from Texas (Mr. RODRIGUEZ) is American World War II veterans, in- time. recognized for half the remaining time cluding people such as Pete Tijerina; So I rise today in honor of the over until midnight. Gregory Luna, a Senator from Texas; 500,000 Hispanics who bravely served Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, Ed Idar and Albert Armendariz, among our country during World War II with tonight we will be highlighting the others, found that their clients, mostly honor and with integrity and were courage and honor of our Hispanic low-income Mexican Americans, were proud to wear the uniform. And for World War II veterans. being denied justice in the legal sys- those of us who wore that uniform, But before we begin tonight, I would tem. men and women who were willing to ul- like to take this moment to honor the For Puerto Ricans, World War II timately sacrifice for this country, it is victims of the unbelievable tragedy at brought new questions in which the an honor for us and our family mem- Virginia Tech University. We have only United States came to appreciate Puer- bers when we put on that uniform and just begun to hear the incredible sto- to Rico’s military importance in the fight for this country. ries of the heroism and tragedy, and Caribbean. The United States main- Madam Speaker, 65,000 Puerto Ricans begun to learn the names and faces of tained that it needed to keep its sov- also served during that period of time. those who died and those whose sur- ereign power over the islands for rea- Thirteen Medals of Honor were given vived, but whose lives will forever be sons of national security, and World out, 11 were Mexican American, two changed. War II strengthened that position. were Puerto Ricans. So when you can Today we have also seen how remark- However, over 53,000 Puerto Ricans look at the contributions of these indi- able and how resilient they are. To the served within the United States mili- viduals and many others, as a veteran, Virginia Tech University community, tary with dignity. Soldiers from the is- I am proud of our heritage and our long the students, the staff, the family land, serving in the 65th Infantry Regi- history of continuing to fight for this members and the loved ones who are ment, participated in combat in the country. suffering today, please know that you European theater in Germany and cen- More Hispanics fought for this coun- are in our prayers and thoughts to- tral Europe. try’s freedom and security during night. World War II was also the first con- World War II, and I state that is an im- I ask for a brief moment of silence. flict in which women other than nurses portant fact to understand, and it is were allowed to serve in the United important that it be included in part of GENERAL LEAVE States Armed Forces. However, when our history of the contributions that Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I the United States entered World War Hispanics have made. More Hispanics ask unanimous consent that all Mem- II, Puerto Rican nurses volunteered for than any other minority group have bers may have 5 legislative days in service, but were not accepted into the served this country with distinction. which to revise and extend their re- Army or the Navy Nurse Corps, and it Just one example is Company E of marks and include extraneous material was not until 1944 that the Army Nurse the 141st Regiment of the 36th Texas on the subject of my Special Order to- Corps decided to activate and recruit Infantry Division. This company was night. Puerto Rican nurses so the Army hos- made up entirely of Hispanics, bilin- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there pitals would not have to deal with lan- gual individuals who were willing to objection to the request of the gen- guage barriers. serve for this country. After 361 days of tleman from Texas? Sadly, Madam Speaker, the stories of combat in Italy and France, the 141st There was no objection. these men and women have been vir- Infantry Regiment sustained 1,126 cas- Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I tually untold either in the mass media ualties, 5,000 wounded and more than rise this evening, joined by my col- or in the scholarly writings, and that is 500 missing in action. leagues, to honor and pay respect and why my colleagues and I are here this In recognizing their extended service tribute to the contributions of the evening to begin sharing the stories of and valor, the members of the 141st Latino and Hispanic soldiers who the Hispanic and Latino World War II were awarded three Medals of Honor, 31 served so valiantly during World War veterans, so all Americans can learn Distinguished Service Crosses, 12 Le- II. about and appreciate their contribu- gions of Merit, 492 Silver Stars, 11 Sol- World War II was a major turning tions. dier’s Medals, and 1,685 Bronze Stars. point for the United States Latinos, Within our own body of the Congres- We were, and are, visible and partici- changing the world views of an entire sional Hispanic Caucus I am proud to pated and gave our lives during World generation. Approximately half a mil- honor, to recognize the service of four War II. And that is an important fact lion Hispanics served in the Armed of our own who have served the mili- for many of our children and others to Forces during World War II. Unfortu- tary with dignity: Chairman SILVESTRE know the contributions of many of our nately, many Latino soldiers who re- REYES, Chairman SOLOMON ORTIZ, the men and women who served us, who turned home found the same discrimi- Honorable JOHN SALAZAR, and the hon- sacrificed for this country. nation they had left behind, a system orable chairman of the Congressional Hispanic women also made a huge that held Latinos to a lower status. Hispanic Caucus, JOE BACA. contribution to the American war ef- Latinos and Latinas who worked in Chairman JOE BACA, who represents fort. Madam Speaker, 200 military installations and in other jobs the 43rd District of California, was Puertoriquenas served during the previously denied them also questioned drafted in 1966 and served in the Army Women’s Army Corps, which was one of the status quo. as a paratrooper with both the 101st the first service opportunities for Understanding the importance of get- and the 82nd Airborne Divisions from women in American history. ting an education to better adapt after 1966 through 1968. their tour of duty, many veterans used I want to take this opportunity to b 2230 the GI bill to earn college degrees. In yield to our chairman, and I thank him Bilingual Hispanic women also the years following World War II, those for being here tonight. worked in important positions within

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.122 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3462 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in honoring today who have served our I first would like to digress from the areas like communications and inter- country and will continue to serve our remarks that I have had here prepared pretation. They also worked as special- country. to highlight the life of a great man. ized bilingual nurses and logistics spe- David Galvan was a Hispanic, he was The individual that I will be high- cialists all over the world, providing an American and a proud American, lighting taught me as a very young the United States military the services and he loved this country. He spent his man and as a young lawyer that if you vital to the war effort and to this coun- entire life serving our Nation and his have something to say, say it; if you try. community and his family; as well as believe in something stand up and Hispanic veterans have made huge my brother Abilio Baca who served in state it. contributions to American society the Armed Forces in the Army during While we were awaiting our call to after serving our country in this war. the Korean conflict; as well as my have our Special Order, some of my Dr. Hector P. Garcia of Corpus Chris- brother-in-law, Ted Dominguez, who colleagues from the other side of the ti founded the American GI Forum in served during World War II. aisle were representing certain figures 1948 to advocate on behalf of veterans I feel honored to have followed in Da- and facts, demonstrating that the prac- rights, and as our chairman indicated, vid’s footsteps by serving in the 101st tices of the Democratic party and many veterans who came back home, and 82nd Airborne during my military Democratic leaders simply resulted in who served this country, were trying to service, and I thank him and I thank deficit spending, not having a balanced buy homes and trying to receive the all of the many men and women who budget, runaway spending and so on. same benefits that many other individ- served during World War II. They are The only problem with those facts and uals were given in this country but yet our heroes. They are our role models. those figures is that the Republicans were denied those same rights, whether They have paved the way for genera- have been in the majority since 1995. It to buy a home, obtain a education, tions of proud Hispanics. They are the was only last year in 2006 that we were have the same rights as others. I know ones who ultimately paid the sacrifices able to take back the majority. So, if because I experienced the same thing so that we can enjoy the freedoms that there was too much spending, if there when I returned back after serving this we have here today because they were was irresponsibility in the way of fiscal country and was trying to rent a home, willing to step up to the plate. They policy, they had the majority. and they would not rent to me, and of stepped up to the plate and were will- Let us talk about the expiration of course, they rented to my wife. In ing to die for this country. That is why certain tax programs that were passed doing so, the GI Forum became an im- we have the freedoms that we have back in 2005. Was it truly necessary to portant civil rights organization for today, and we must not forget the leg- say they would expire in 2005? Now, I Mexican Americans. acy of what they have left for us. They understand that we do things in 5-year Another organization that came out have opened the door. They paved the increments often enough, but they had of the World War II generation of way. They provided that for us. Let us the majority. Make them permanent; Latinos was the Mexican American remember those veterans who have they never did. Extend them; they Legal Defense and Educational Fund, served this country. never did. You wonder why. or MALDEF, in 1968. Mexican Amer- Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, It is complaining that this bus is ican World War II veterans, such as let me take this opportunity also to being driven in an erratic manner and Pete Tijerina, Ed Idar and Albert congratulate Congressman BACA not the wrong destination. The problem is Armendariz, came together to advocate only as chairman of the Congressional you were driving it. They controlled for low-income Mexican Americans Hispanic Caucus but for his service to Congress and nothing was done. who needed fair treatment within the his country, and he continues to serve The last time we had a balanced American legal system. in the U.S. House of Representatives. I budget was under the Clinton adminis- As a Hispanic, a veteran and as chair thank Congressman BACA. tration, and it was because of Presi- of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, I Let me take this opportunity also to dent Clinton’s leadership that we were cannot tell you how humbled I am by just share with you that also I men- able to balance the budget because of the sacrifice of these brave men and tioned earlier Chairman Sylvestre good, solid economic policy and tax women who came before me, who ulti- Reyes, who also served in the military, policies that really were fair to all mately gave the sacrifice, who believed now chairman of the Intelligence Com- Americans. in this country and continue to believe mittee, who represents the 16th Dis- I leave you with a couple of thoughts in this country and will continue to trict of Texas. He is a Vietnam combat here. First of all, what we are pro- fight for this country because we know veteran, and he was stationed in Mar- posing in the first few months of being it is an honor to serve for the United ble Mountain in DaNang, and he served in the majority is to maintain and States and its principles and what it as a helicopter crew chief within the make sure that we still have the child stands for. 282nd Combat Assault Helicopter Com- tax credit that would not expire, that I am particularly honored to know of pany from March 1967 to April 1968. I we make sure that the marriage pen- a dear friend of mine who served during know that he was unable to be here to- alty relief would not expire. Why? Be- World War II, David Guerra Galvan, night, but I know that he also cher- cause that truly is just. That truly is who recently passed away on March 23 ishes and recognizes those individuals fair. when I went back to the district. He who served our country. What is not fair is what I am going to was born in my district and was a resi- Let me take this opportunity to rec- read to you now that appeared back in dent of Rialto, my hometown, for 50 ognize a friend from San Antonio, 2005. Back on the 8th day of December years. Texas, which represents a community 2005, the Republican tax reconciliation David served his country in the Army that has multitude and is known as bill, the Tax Policy Center, run jointly during World War II as a paratrooper Military U.S.A., San Antonio, because by the Brookings Institution and the and in the 101st Airborne Division. Dur- of the support that we have for our Urban Institute has concluded that the ing his European tour, David was also military with Lackland Air Force bottom 80 percent of households would transferred to the 82nd Airborne Divi- Base, Randolph Air Force Base, Fort receive 15.5 percent of the House tax sion as part of a detachment for the Sam Houston, Brooks that used to be cuts. The top 20 percent would receive personal protection of General Dwight here, and the military support and all 84.2 percent of the benefit. Households Eisenhower. After his military service, the families there, Congressman Char- earning more than $1 million would get David continued to serve his country lie Gonzalez. 40 percent of the tax cut relief, or an as a data communications operator at Mr. GONZALEZ. Madam Speaker, I average reduction of nearly $51,000. If Norton Air Force Base. He retired after want to express my thanks of course to you believe that is fair tax policy, 40 years of outstanding service to the my colleague Ciro Rodriguez, my something is truly, truly wrong, and Armed Forces in 1990. neighbor and fellow San Antonian for we are going to correct that as we as- David was a dear friend of mine, and his great service in this Congress and, sume the majority. he is a perfect example of the hundreds of course, as past chair of the Congres- Now, who taught me that? I will go of thousands of veterans that we are sional Hispanic Caucus. now into my remarks because we are

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.125 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3463 here to honor and to spotlight the serv- Nazi-occupied Europe. By the summer What did he do? Well, prior to the ice of Hispanics and especially in World of 1944, he had flown over 40 missions. brain aneurysm that took his life, he War II. On June 13, 1944, Mike Machado’s B– had announced at the age of 74 his can- Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure 24 was heavily damaged over Munich. didacy for district attorney in Bexar today to participate in this Special Despite the desperate nature of their County on the Democratic ticket. Order honoring Hispanic veterans of situation, the crew stayed with their Judge Machado was highly regarded in the Second World War. As we have al- aircraft rather than parachute into the community, as evidenced by the ready heard, the contributions made by enemy hands. over 1,000 mourners that attended his Hispanic Americans to the war effort b 2245 funeral. against the Axis Powers were signifi- As a judge, he performed marriage Mike Machado and his comrades cant. A half million Hispanics served, ceremonies for thousands of San Anto- crossed the border into northern Italy and I fear that their contributions are nio couples. He welcomed the public before they were forced to make a often forgotten. into his chambers with open arms, crash landing. Upon impact, fire en- It is important that all Americans, often quite literally. What I mean by gulfed the B–24. Mike Machado carried including Hispanics, enjoy recognition that, it was a big giant bear hug that two of his fellow airmen to safety that and our historical dialogues commen- he would give you, and he made himself day, saving them from the flames. In surate with the contributions they available to individuals in need of help. the process, he received severe burns to made to our Nation. When we fail to be Believe it or not, even ex-convicts his upper body and arms that would inclusive, our histories are incomplete. that he had sentenced would seek his limit the use of his hands for the rest They are only half-truths. We owe it to advice at times. He was a man of the of his life. past and future generations to make My personal observation that I would people and a man who befriended ev- our histories whole. When history is like to make is that even I practiced eryone. I am honored to have had the complete, it is also fair and it is just. before Judge Machado. It was obvious opportunity to share with you the Today, I am honored to make a small that this is someone who had suffered story of Judge Mike Machado, a coura- contribution to our country’s World horrific, disfiguring and incapacitating geous man and a servant of his coun- War II dialogue on behalf of the war’s injuries. try. Hispanic veterans in hopes that their The French Underground provided My colleague, Congressman stories come to occupy a place in his- sanctuary for Mike over the following RODRIGUEZ, who organized this oppor- tory proportionate to their service and months, hiding him from Nazi forces tunity to recount the bravery of His- to their sacrifice. and eventually securing his return to panic veterans of World War II, should Like their African American broth- the United States Army. His strength be commended for his efforts today and ers-in-arms, Hispanic Americans served and his resilience, combined with the in the past, because this is not the first the United States in World War II with rudimentary medical care provided by time that Congressman RODRIGUEZ has honor and distinction, despite the fact his French companions, allowed him to risen to the defense of the Hispanic that they had yet to enjoy the full survive his injuries from the fire and warrior in recognizing and remem- fruits of the liberty they defended. the flack. bering these servicemen, including Back in the 1940s, in the late 1940s After his return to the United States Judge Mike Machado. also, most of the services offered to the Army, he began a 36-month long recu- As I indicated earlier, we did not American public by our national, State peration at Beaumont General Hospital offer these comments tonight solely to and local governments were segregated in El Paso. The ordeal included 23 skin highlight the virtues of specific indi- between whites and minorities, includ- graft operations that only partially re- viduals. We realized as Judge ing Hispanics. But despite the fact that paired the injuries incurred during his Machado’s son has said of his dad, ‘‘My the services to which they were enti- heroic rescue efforts. Mike Machado’s father and many more of his genera- tled were often withheld or inferior, story of heroism does not end with his tion would be embarrassed at the pros- Hispanics did not withhold their serv- discharge from the Army. His injuries pect of receiving special attention for ice to the American people. They did not deter him from his pursuit of doing what they consider to be a privi- fought for our country even as schools an education, in law, especially, and a lege, that is, serving this great coun- they attended, jobs they worked, wages career of public service, as a city attor- try.’’ When we honor individuals like they earned, and living conditions they ney and as a judge at the municipal Judge Mike Machado, we honor a sym- tolerated reflected systematic inequal- and State district court levels. bol really of something much more. We ity that denied them full rights of citi- Judge Machado used the GI Bill to honor them because their courage sym- zenship. Despite the inequality endured enroll at Saint Mary’s University and bolizes the courage and sacrifice to by Hispanic veterans before and after graduated from Saint Mary’s Univer- which the Hispanic community and the World War II, their stories of courage sity Law School in 1952. He soon be- Nation at large aspire. and heroism during that troubling time came a prosecutor. In 1957, he was ap- We honor the service of Hispanic vet- are the equal of any that can be told. pointed as a municipal court judge erans of World War II specifically I regret that I have time to share where he served for 20 years. In 1977, he today in order to solidify their place in with you the story of but one of the became a judge for the newly created World War II history and ensure that hundreds of thousands of Hispanic vet- 227th State district court. That same their patriotic virtues receive the ap- erans who so courageously defended year he was honored by Pope Paul VI preciation they deserve, that Judge the liberty of humankind during those with a knighthood in the Pontifical Machado and hundreds of thousands of darkest hours. Order of Saint Gregory the Great. He his fellow World War II veterans, His- The Honorable Mike Machado en- served as a district judge for 21 years panic and non-Hispanic alike, look joyed a lengthy career of public service until the time of his death. back on their valiant service to our to the United States, to the State of When he died on July 29, 1998, Judge country as a privilege and an honor, Texas and to the residence of his be- Machado had amassed over a half cen- and should be an inspiration to all loved home city of San Antonio. He tury of public service to our country, Americans. was born in San Antonio on September as an airman, and as an assistant DA, Let our recognition of their sacrifices 4, 1923, and attended Sydney Lanier and a municipal and district court motivate us to a greater appreciation High School where he excelled as a stu- judge. He was just shy of his 75th birth- of the contributions made during World dent athlete. day and would have been retired from War II by Americans, regardless of Like so many young men of his gen- the bench, as Texas law requires, on their racial or ethnic backgrounds. eration, Mike Machado entered service September 4 of that year. None of their brave soldiers will ever to his country during the earliest days While Texas law mandated his retire- be forgotten. of his adulthood by enlisting in the ment from the judicial branch, it could Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Congressman United States Army Air Corps at 17. He not squelch Judge Machado’s desire to CHARLIE GONZALEZ, I want to person- became a nose gunner on a B–24, bat- serve the public, knowing that manda- ally thank you tonight for bringing the tling the Germans over the skies of tory retirement was fast approaching. story of Judge Machado, a great leader

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.126 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3464 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 in San Antonio. I also want to thank largest in the country that stretches He recalls the many tragedies of the you for your comments as you re- from San Antonio to El Paso through war for both soldiers and civilians. He gressed and talked a little bit in terms Eagle Pass and the border, has some remembers having to hold his plate of of the deficit. You have talked in elo- 700 miles of the border with Mexico. I food so that they would not be stolen quence, and I couldn’t help but remem- represent the VA reports in their coun- by the starving civilians and children ber your dad, Henry B. Gonzalez, as he ty estimates and projections of living who appeared around the camps when spoke in this House about the impor- veterans report, that as of September they went through both Africa and into tant issues that confront us. 30, 2006, there are currently 53,012 liv- Italy. He often wondered why he got I know that previous groups had ing veterans within the 23rd Congres- out alive. talked about the deficit, knowing full sional District. Truly, he experienced every emotion well that this particular administra- Therefore, my colleagues, I stand known to man, from profound sorrow tion went into office with a surplus, today, this evening, in honor of the ex- to wondrous awe. Only in the last 2 to one of the largest surpluses in recorded traordinary service these men and 3 years has he started to talk about history. Now we find ourselves without women should be recognized for what these experiences. As he talks about that surplus and find ourselves in an they do. In so recognizing their efforts, his experiences, he remembers parts of $8.9 trillion debt. we also need to recognize them in the comments and the language, the That being said, let me also take this terms of what we provide them with. Italian language that he picked up and opportunity to mention a little bit Before I do that, let me take this op- some of the words. He returned from about some of our own veterans here portunity to also tell a story of my fa- service in 1945, receiving the European- on the House, Chairman SOLOMON ther-in-law. Daniel Sanchez Pena was African-Middle Eastern Campaign ORTIZ, who sits on the Armed Services born on January 11, 1919, as the young- Medal with four bronze service stars, Committee, represents the 27th Dis- est son of Manuel Pena and Catarina the World War II Victory Medal, and trict of Texas. Sanchez Pena in Las Colonias of the Honorable Service Lapel Button for As a result of his father’s death at Karnes County, Texas. He grew up in World War II. the age of 16, Chairman ORTIZ dropped his parents’ ranchito doing all the He married Dora Mansanalez in Sep- out of school to find a job to assist his types of farm chores that kids do in a tember of 1947, another young lady who mother in paying the family bills. farm. He only went to the second grade lived at another farm adjoining their Shortly thereafter, Chairman ORTIZ in school. He learned to play the guitar farm. His father had seven children, joined the Army, because, as he put it, at 14 and played at community and three girls and four boys. Two of the it was the one place that would give farmhouse dances around the commu- boys, Roberto and Guillermo, my him free room and board and let me nity. He would use his skills while in brother-in-laws, served in the Army. send my check back home to my moth- the Army to entertain himself and his Carolina, his daughter, is my wife. er. fellow soldiers. 2300 It was in the Army that Mr. ORTIZ, To this day, he still enjoys, at 87, b SOLOMON, ever conscious of the needs playing the guitar there at home. Dan- And so I mention Daniel Pena be- for an education, got his GED. He re- iel Sanchez Pena was registered on the cause he is typical of a lot of the vet- ceived his basic training at Fort Hood, 16th day of October, 1940. He reported erans, a lot of Hispanic veterans who Texas, and was sent overseas to France to the Local Board No. 1 in Karnes have served our country, who never for his tour of duty. He later found County, Texas, at the courthouse, on spoke of the war until now as he himself reassigned to the 61st Military March 25, 1942. This was part of the reaches 87 years of age he begins to Police Company, Criminal Investiga- 35th precinct of what is referred to as talk about those incidents. tion Office, a move that would color the Robstown, Texas, ward. At the age Let me also take this opportunity, much of his future professional life. He of 23, in June of 1942, he was at the Madam Speaker, as featured by Gebe remained as an investigator for the du- headquarters of the Armed Forces Re- Martinez, a longtime journalist in ration of his tour of duty, receiving his placement Training Center in Fort Washington. I would like to share with advanced military police training at Knox, Kentucky, Company A, for train- you a story which she featured of a sol- Fort Gordon, Georgia. ing. Being a farm boy, he was an expert dier from my own 23rd District of Congressman JOHN SALAZAR, who shooter and got excellent points for Texas, Nick Arzola. represents the Third District of Colo- marksmanship. He still talks about the Nick Arzola was defined as a skinny rado, graduated from Centauri High beautiful mountains in Kentucky that kid from Del Rio, Texas; service in School in La Jara, Colorado. In 1973 he he recalls and the green valleys. World War II was the pride of his life. joined the Army. After serving in Hei- After training, he was sent to New He never forgot the precise time he left delberg, Germany, SALAZAR received an York to board the ship and go overseas. New York for the war, 5 p.m. on Octo- honorable military discharge in 1976. This was a real adventure to Daniel. ber 7, 1943. Arzola went through the Congressman SALAZAR is proud to be a Daniel had never traveled far from his choppy seas, pitched in his ship so vio- veteran and proud to be both the son home, much less across the Atlantic lently that he was sick for the entire 18 and father of men who have served. The Ocean. He still talks about the amaze- days’ voyage to Scotland. Salazar family is honored to have ment of seeing the dolphins and the On land, he went from cooking on a served our country. Congressman whales and other large fish that he gas stove on the battlefront to moving SALAZAR tells a story of his father, a saw. He recalls how seasick they were grenades and bombs at a munitions veteran of World War II, requesting to and how at night, how he looked on depot. Arzola was a proud American be buried in his uniform. that floating city of lights. Coming from Del Rio, even if he was considered Today’s generation of Hispanics and from a small town, that seemed like a the only Mexican with a bunch of Latino American soldiers look to the large city. Yankees, as he used to say. He was brave men and women, veterans, who He served in the U.S. Army for 3 good natured despite the stereotype. fought before them, as true inspiration. years. He was a rifleman in the infan- His war buddies first thought he looked In the State of Texas alone, there are try. He remembers crawling in the Filipino. Then, they called him Pancho 197,173 World War II veterans who have sand, freezing in the snow, climbing Villa and they called him Casanova, ac- fought so bravely and honorably to de- the steep mountains and the high cording to the tales. fend our beloved country. According to mountains in Italy and forever march- When he returned to Texas after the the 2000 census, the VA reported and ing, dodging bullets and digging fox war, he traveled a road that would recognized Texas as having 14,871,550 holes. He saw his friends from Karnes later be named for Cleto Rodriguez, the civilian population over the age of 18 County, a young man at that point first Hispanic to receive the Medal of and a total veteran civilian population that he talks about, and always re- Honor for his bravery in the battle in of over 1.7 million. members him, who was killed in front Manila. Within the 23rd Congressional Dis- of him. To this day, he still remembers Nick opened a barbershop in Del Rio trict, which is the district that I rep- that specific incident when that oc- and painted signs freehand, including resent, a district that is one of the curred. billboards for rising Texas politicians

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.127 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3465 such as Lloyd Bentsen. A veteran, he trying to come into the U.S. military It is with great privilege that I take the op- never missed an election and rounded campsites for food, as they recalled portunity to especially recognize the noble up voters to take part in freedom as he during the stories. Several of these sol- service and high sacrifices of the approxi- campaigned. diers such as Captain Reynaldo mately 500,000 Hispanic Americans who Until he died in 2005, he was part of Gallardo and others continue to reserved in the Armed Forces during World War the uniformed honor guard at the fu- member their efforts. II. One of whom was my brother-in-law, neral of Del Rio’s war veterans, one I want to mention, on Veterans Day Manuel Musquiz—a bombardier. where to this day you have a large Carlos Faustinos, a former member of During World War II Hispanic participation number of veterans there in Del Rio the Escuadron 201, always is proud of was at a higher percentage than any other mi- that continue to volunteer as their vet- flying not only Old Glory but the Mexi- nority. Of these, at least 65,000 were Puerto erans pass away and do the honors of can flag, because he, as a Mexican, Rican and the majority of the Hispanics were burying them. fought on behalf of the United States Mexican-Americans. Thirteen Medals of Honor Nick Arzola’s story may not seem against the Japanese. He was also were awarded to Latinos in World War II, elev- unlike that of other veterans, but this known for being able to down six Japa- en to Mexican Americans, and two to Puerto is a representation of part of America’s nese Zeros, which basically makes him Ricans. When Hispanic soldiers returned history that has too often been forgot- an ace, and was able to get credit and home they utilized the GI Bill to advance their ten. His story, like the stories many receive La Cruz de Honor, the Cross of education. colleagues have shared, have not been Honor, which is equivalent to the U.S. Unfortunately, many Latino soldiers who told. Nick never missed an election and Medal of Honor award in this country. served during WWII also received a rude rounded up votes as he worked and will Very few Americans know of the 201 awakening as they returned home. They faced continue to do so. Escuadron. Very few of them know of the same discrimination they had left when So I want to take this opportunity to the Aztec Eagles, these Mexicans who they heeded the call to serve. Latino soldiers also mention, as I have a few minutes fought with the U.S. troops as troopers returned home to exert their rights, through left, we talked the last few weeks and fought over the sea in the Pacific. numerous civil rights efforts, to create greater about the situation that we find our- They continue to engage and continue opportunities through activism. Powerful orga- selves with as PBS has a 14-hour pro- to meet, and I know the G.I. Forum has nizations grew out of this era, including the gram on World War II that will be re- recently honored their efforts, but G.I. Forum and the Mexican American Legal leased in September. There has been a much more needs to be done. Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF). A great deal of concern about the lack of Let me take this opportunity in clos- wealth of gratitude is entitled to these national Hispanic participation in that par- ing to indicate that as we honor our heroes and their families who not only fought ticular program. We have had meetings troops, it is not just sufficient for us to for democracy but fought for equality. with Ken Burns and others and have honor them with our words. We have to I would also like to recognize my fellow col- been pleased that we have been able to honor them with our acts. And that is leagues of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus make some inroads. There is still a lot why I am extremely proud to announce who also have served our country: Represent- of work to be done. that this legislation has put more atives ORTIZ, REYES, BACA, and SALAZAR. We pause to remember the noble service I do want to mention that I am also money for our veterans service than and high sacrifices of those who have worn concerned that within our own popu- any other in history. I am glad that the our nation’s uniform. We must not allow our lation we don’t know the history of the budget for 2008 has $6.6 billion, and I children to forget about those who have role that Mexican Americans and His- know that the House of Representa- served and the millions of living military vet- panics have played, not only in World tives will be voting on that. That $6.6 erans in the United States, those residing in War II but throughout all the wars. billion is the resources that are essen- California, and Hispanic veterans in the U.S. I want to mention a group of Mexi- tially needed at this present time to Our thoughts and prayers are also with tomor- cans, these are truly Mexicans from help. row’s veterans—our servicemen and women Mexico that played a very significant And for 2007, I am also proud to say serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and across the role in World War II in defense of the that we were able to take that par- United States and that was referred to world. ticular piece of legislation that should Let us remember the service of all our vet- as Escuadron 201, the Aztec Eagles, as have been passed last year, that was erans, the ones that wars—and peace—can- they were called. The 201 Escuadron passed by this Congress, the concurrent not be won without. And let us renew our na- was a group of 300 Mexicans that were resolution, and that we added to that tional promise to fulfill our sacred obligations trained in the United States and fought bill after we struck all the line items to our veterans and families who have sac- on behalf of the United States, with that were placed on that bill the pre- rificed so much so that we can live free. some 38 Mexican pilots that were vious year by the previous Congress, Mr. HINOJOSA. Madam Speaker, I first trained in this country. we struck every single line item, and want to express my deepest condolences to On December 8, 1941, the day after we added $3.6 billion for the VA. all of the families who lost loved ones in yes- the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mexico So I am pleased not only that we did terday’s tragedy at Virginia Tech University. severed its ties with Germany, Italy, that, but I am also pleased to announce This horrific event has affected Americans all and Japan. And in May 1942, the Nazis that the supplemental that the Presi- over this country and we all mourn for those also sank a Mexican tanker, and Mex- dent will hopefully eventually sign has who were lost and pray for the swift recovery ico declared war against the Axis pow- an additional $1.7 billion for our troops of those who were injured. ers. During that time, Mexico partici- for health care. That is the way to Tonight I join my colleagues from the Con- pated in the war, and one group was honor our troops not only with our gressional Hispanic Caucus in paying tribute the Escuadron 201. This group of 300 in- words but with our deeds. to the thousands of Hispanic veterans who dividuals that were Mexicans were Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Madam Speaker, I am have fought and died defending this country. trained in this country. The 201 suc- honored to join my colleagues in honoring the My Congressional district has lost many young cessfully participated in the Allied ef- tremendous contributions of World War II Vet- men in this most recent conflict in Iraq and Af- forts to bomb Luzon and Formosa, erans. ghanistan. known as Taiwan now, to attempt to During World War II Americans responded They are but the latest in a long line of pa- push the Japanese out of the island. to a call of service that resulted in a genera- triots from South Texas who have given their Assigned to the 58th Fighter Group of tion of leaders that has since never been lives in the defense of America. the United States Fifth Air Force, the seen. As our country faced the war, all citi- Tonight I want to pay tribute to a young man Aztec Eagles, as they were called, were zens stood united and ready to contribute. from my district who received this Nation’s also used in ground support efforts Without exception, Hispanic Americans were highest award, the Congressional Medal of after the aerial threat from Japan also there to seize the call their country had Honor. weakened. During those ground assign- laid before them. Not only did Hispanic Ameri- Alfredo Cantu Gonzalez, known to his ments, the men of the squadron saw cans serve our country during a time of war, friends and family as ‘‘Freddy’’, was born in firsthand the fearlessness and war men- their leadership after service resulted in huge 1946 in Edinburg, Texas in the Rio Grande tality of the Japanese soldiers. Japa- civil rights advancements for the Hispanic Valley. His mother was a waitress, who had to nese soldiers were often captured after community. raise her son alone.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:13 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.129 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3466 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 Freddy worked in the cotton fields as a just one of the many thousands of stories that As Governor of the Louisiana Territory, teenager to help his mother. He attended Ed- make up the heritage of our Hispanic vet- General Benardo de Ga´lvez sent money, gun- inburg High School, where he was an out- erans. powder, rifles and other supplies to General standing football star. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in George Washington to aid in the revolution. After graduation, he enlisted in the Marine thanking all of these brave men and women, He later served gallantly in the War for Inde- Corps. After his initial training, he was sent to as well as their families and loved ones, for pendence by capturing both Mobile and Pen- Vietnam in 1966 where he served as a rifle- their service. sacola—at a pivotal point in the war. man and squad leader. He was quickly pro- Mr. ORTIZ. Madam Speaker, Hispanic vet- Captain Jorge Farragut came to the United moted from private to lance corporal to cor- erans represent our love of this nation . . . States to seek his fortune by fighting the Brit- poral. they represent the best of our community . . . ish—first in the Revolution, then in the War of He returned to the States in 1967 where he and their service is a frequent path to greater 1812—as part of the U.S. Navy. was given the task of training recruits in gue- opportunities for them and their families. Hispanics also raised special collections and rilla warfare. Freddy told his mother and I am a veteran, inspired by another veteran taxes to aid the fight for independence. After friends he did not want to return to Vietnam who inspired so many of us: Dr. Hector P. the Revolution was won, Mexican pesos aided and would not re-enlist. Garcia who created the GI Forum, a powerful in the construction of St. Peter’s Church in A few months after his return from Vietnam, platform that represents Hispanic veterans New York City to celebrate the end of the war. he learned that an entire Marine platoon had who labor on the battlefield for our nation. Dr. As in the Revolution, Hispanics served proudly been killed, including a group of men who had Hector Garcia was a personal hero to me. in each war and conflict in which the United served under him during his first tour of duty. He served the nation on the battlefield . . . States participated. He was saddened by their loss and imme- and he served us again by making people un- In the course of that service, 38 Hispanics diately volunteered for a second tour of duty. derstand that a soldier is a soldier—that race have been awarded the Congressional Medal On July 1, 1967 he was promoted to ser- makes no difference among Americans, par- of Honor, our country’s highest award for mili- geant and shipped back to Vietnam. ticularly when they wear the uniform of the tary bravery and service. On January 31, 1968, Sergeant Freddy United States. If he were here today, he would In the Civil War, David Glasgow Farragut, Gonzalez and his men were assigned the task have a great deal to say to PBS about the son of Jorge Farragut, won fame as a Union of protecting a truck convoy that was bringing omission of Hispanics when putting together a hero by blockading Southern ports, destroying relief to a major Vietnamese town. The truck special on WWII. Rebel ships anchored in New Orleans, and by convoy was attacked by the Viet Cong with WWII was the moment in time when His- capturing Mobile for the Union. His contributions prompted Congress to cre- mortars and machine gun fire. panics found their place in U.S. society and ate the title of Rear Admiral to reward him as Although Sergeant Gonzalez was wounded, found our voice in demanding equality among the first man to ever hold that rank. Farragut he ran through heavy fire to rescue a wound- troops . . . and elsewhere in the American was commissioned Vice Admiral in 1864, then ed Marine who fell off the tank. family. And it was Dr. Hector’s audacious vi- On February 3, Sergeant Gonzalez was sion that began a decades-long march in ad- Admiral in 1866. Federico Ferma´ndez Cavada, a Lieutenant wounded again but refused medical treatment vancing civil rights, voting rights and school Colonel for the Union Army, fought bravely at until all of the other wounded Marines were desegregation for Hispanics in Texas and Gettysburg. Rafael Cha´con also served with treated. around the nation. the Union Army, and attained the rank of The next day, on February 4, Sergeant Here’s how it all began . . . the family of Major. Gonzalez and his Marine platoon were pinned Felix Longoria—a brave and fallen U.S. soldier Santos Benavides—originally from Laredo— down by the Viet Cong, who were firing at the from WWII—wanted his body buried at Three fought for the Confederacy. His rank of Colo- Americans with rockets and automatic weap- Rivers Cemetery in Three Rivers, Texas. Yet nel was the highest of any Mexican-American ons from a church. segregation’s profound and evil roots ran deep Army officer in the Civil War. Sergeant Gonzalez, utilizing a number of in the heart of Texas then, reaching all the Major Manuel Antonio Chavez forced the light anti-tank assault weapons, fearlessly way into cemeteries, and Longoria’s burial Confederate Army to retreat down the Rio moved from position to position, firing numer- was refused; he was not white and could not Grande, preventing the rebels from carrying ous rounds at the heavily fortified enemy em- be buried alongside those with whom he had out their plans to seize the gold mines of New placements, almost single-handedly neutral- fought in the war. Mexico and California. izing the enemy. Dr. Hector laid bare the raw racism inherent Lieutenant Colonel Jose´ Francisco Chaves All appeared quiet and Sergeant Gonzalez in the U.S. after this nation fought a global war of the Union Army assisted in recapturing Al- approached to make sure that the church was to protect democracy and our way of life, buquerque and Santa Fe. secure when the hidden lone enemy survivor when even cemeteries were segregated. The One of the most interesting soldiers in the killed him. At the age of 21, Sergeant Freddy fight to bury this war hero was successful and Confederacy was Loretta Janet Vela´zquez, Gonzalez had given the ultimate sacrifice for that effort begat the GI Forum, the very first who fought disguised as a man. Upon dis- his country. Hispanic civil rights organization in this nation. covery and discharge, she continued her serv- In 1969, his mother, Dolia Gonzalez, was I was so pleased that—after the Hispanic ice as a Confederate spy. escorted to the White House to receive the Caucus engaged PBS in a serious conversa- In 1973, Lieutenant Colonel Mercedes Congressional Medal of Honor awarded to her tion about the lack of inclusion of the story of Cubria retired from the Army—she was the son posthumously because of his tremendous Hispanics in the story of WWII—PBS under- first Hispanic woman to achieve that rank. His- heroism in saving the men in his platoon. stood the enormity of that decision. They will panics served bravely for the cause of free- He was also awarded numerous other med- now include the extraordinary exploits of His- dom and democracy in World War I, World als including the Purple Heart, the Vietnam panic warriors in the story of the last declared War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Presidential Unit Citation, the National De- war our nation fought. Around 500,000 Hispanics served the fense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Yet, it was not only WWII in which Hispanic United States during World War II, and it is on Medal with 2 bronze stars and the Vietnam Americans were heroes in securing freedom; the shoulders of these great men that the rest Gallantry Cross with palm. there were many examples of Hispanic war of us could see the future. Long after his death, his courage, his patri- heroes throughout our history. Today we In the years to come, when the military otism and his sacrifice are still remembered. In should also honor our forefathers who played service of Hispanics is viewed through the the Rio Grande Valley there are schools, a large part in making—and then keeping—the prism of history, there are certainly a number roads and parks named after him. United States free and democratic; for as long of young Hispanics whose service to this na- In 1996, the Navy commissioned the USS as there has been a United States, Hispanics tion in this new war will distinguish themselves Gonzalez, a guided-missile destroyer and the have played major roles in building our coun- among great U.S. warriors in the 21st Century. first modern destroyer named for a Mexican try and defending it. Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I join my col- American. Freddie was one of 13 Hispanics From the American Revolution that freed the league Representatives DEVIN NUNES in hon- who were awarded the Medal of Honor for United States from England—to today’s oper- oring the life of Mr. Louis Flores Ruiz from their service in Vietnam. ation against al Qaeda—Hispanics proudly Dinuba, California, who passed away peace- Hispanics have a proud tradition of patriot- and bravely served the United States. When fully at his home on Sunday, April 1, 2007. Mr. ism and have always been willing to answer the Colonies on the East Coast of what is now Ruiz was loyal, compassionate and worked America’s call to duty, often when they were the United States rebelled against England, hard to make the American Dream a reality in not even citizens. Freddy Gonzalez’ story is Hispanics played a pivotal role. his life.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.042 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3467 Mr. Louis Flores Ruiz was born on October STEM CELL RESEARCH research whether it was adult or em- 30, 1918 in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico. At The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. CAS- bryonic. the age of five, he and his family immigrated TOR). Under the Speaker’s announced But the facts are really brought to the United States and after successfully policy of January 18, 2007, the gen- home by this first slide, Madam Speak- serving his country by joining the U.S. Army, tleman from Georgia (Mr. GINGREY) is er, that I want to present. And this is he was granted United States Citizenship on recognized for the time remaining basically what it says: Our government December 17, 1944. During his time in the until midnight. invested in lifesaving research. The Army, he served as a Military Police escorting Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I am Federal Government has spent $161 prisoners-of-war and civilians in combat areas very happy to be before my colleagues million since 2003 on human embryonic as well as investigating theft. His stellar serv- on the House floor this evening to talk stem cell research. As I pointed out, ice to our country made Mr. Ruiz a recipient about a hugely important issue that we Madam Speaker, the President was of the Philippine Liberation Ribbon, one will be dealing with once again this willing to allow that funding to con- Bronze Service Star, an Asiatic-Pacific Cam- week in all probability. tinue on those embryonic stem cell paign Medal with Bronze Service Stars, and a As you know, Madam Speaker and lines that had already been created. Good Conduct Medal. my colleagues, I am talking about the And there was some 60 of those stem issue of stem cell research. Last week cell lines where researchers could get a Upon his return from his service, Mr. Ruiz the Senate was in session, and once grant from the Federal Government first worked as a grocery store owner, then as again the bill that passed on the House and begin that important research on an insurance salesman. After that, he joined floor in the 109th Congress, the Castle- these stem cells. his brothers and brother-in-law in Tulare, Cali- DeGette bill, which would require Fed- Before that, no administration, no fornia and co-founded a large tortilla factory eral funding, taxpayer funding for em- President, at no time in the 40 years where they pioneered the automation of tortilla bryonic stem cell research that was ob- that the Democrats controlled the Con- production. An entrepreneur and innovator at tained by the destruction of the so- gress, certainly not during President heart, Mr. Ruiz went on to co-found what has called ‘‘throwaway embryos’’ from in- Clinton’s 8 years, was one dime of Fed- become the largest frozen food Mexican man- fertility assisted reproductive tech- eral tax dollars spent on embryonic ufacturing firm in the United States, the sec- nology clinics that couples say they stem cell research. Some was spent on ond largest Hispanic-owned manufacturing did not want, that these were extras. adult stem cell research. But when it firm in the United States, and the largest man- Well, that bill that passed last year on was suggested by scientists that maybe ufacturing plant in the state of California. Ruiz this House floor passed the Senate last the embryonic stem cells had more po- Foods has also helped establish programs of week, and, Madam Speaker, we will be tential to develop into a lot of different charitable giving within the community to many seeing that bill very soon once again. tissues and ultimately organs that organizations that enhance the quality of life So, I want to be present tonight to could possibly help people with dis- for the people of the Central Valley. talk about this very, very important eases, and we have all seen those tele- In 1983 Mr. Ruiz had the distinctive honor of issue with my colleagues and anyone vision spots with celebrities in some meeting with President Ronald Reagan and that has an opportunity within ear dis- cases, Michael J. Fox, who is suffering Vice President George Bush in the Rose Gar- tance of what we are speaking about severely from Parkinson’s disease. tonight to help bring an understanding den of the White House, as he accepted the b 2315 U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small to this issue and to try to convince my The life of Christopher Reeves, we all Business Person’s of the Year Award. In colleagues that we can do this; that is, know about the tragic injury and the 2003, Mr. Ruiz had the pleasure of hosting we can do stem cell research as we have been doing over the last several quadriplegic state that he suffered in President George W. Bush at Ruiz Foods in for many years before his tragic death Dinuba, CA. Other major highlights in Mr. years. Since President Bush’s first term in last year. Ruiz’s life include, placing a wreath at the office way back in 2001, we have been When you see those things, you Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington spending Federal tax dollars on stem know, you think, well, we are not Cemetery at the request of President Reagan cell research. But what the President doing anything. But the truth is, and it and being named the 14th person to the Tor- said in August of 2001 was that he is very important for us to understand tilla Industry Association Hall of Fame—a dis- would not allow Federal tax dollars, this, that under President Bush, in- tinction reserved for those who have made your tax dollars, my tax dollars, those deed, since 2003, some $608 million has positive contributions to the tortilla industry of my family, my parents, my constitu- been spent on stem cell research. And a through technical or significant innovations in ents, to be used to fund stem cell re- lot of that, as I point out, because of products, equipment or ingredients while at- search that resulted in the destruction those previous embryonic stem cell taining business success. of a human life. lines, a lot of it has been on embryonic Mr. Ruiz is survived by JoAnn, his wife; their What President Bush did say back stem cell research, and he is the only daughter and son-in law, Shannon and Eric then was that embryonic stem cell re- President that allowed that. Weller; brother and sister-in-law, Carlos and search that was ongoing, that was a re- Now, we have great Members in both Olga Ruiz; brother and sister-in-law, Edward sult of cell lines developed from human bodies and on both sides of the aisle. Sr. and Dolores Ruiz; brother and sister-in- embryos that had already been de- And I have a tremendous amount of re- law, Oscar and Alice Ruiz, sister, Margaret stroyed could continue; and Federal spect, Madam Speaker, for the two Tarasas; and daughter-in-law, Luisa Ruiz; the tax dollars could be used through the Members in this body, in this House, mother of his four children, Rose; and their NIH to give grants to these researchers that felt that because maybe these em- daughter and son-in-law, Rose Margaret and as they applied to use these existing bryonic stem cell lines that were pre- Paul Doherty; son and daughter-in-law, Fred cell lines, which indeed did come from viously created that were being used and Mitzie Ruiz; daughter and son-in-law, the destruction of human life, as I be- for research would exhaust themselves, Anna and Dennis January; and daughter lieve life begins at conception, in these that we would use up all those stem Carrie Ruiz. Louis was also blessed with nu- embryos that were taken from fertility cells. We certainly haven’t, at this mo- merous nieces, nephews, godchildren, grand- clinics. ment. I think there is still 20 of those children, great grandchildren, a wonderful care In fact, Madam Speaker, I want to stem cell lines in existence. Some were provider and many dear friends. emphasize that point because it is so found to be contaminated. Originally, I important that our colleagues under- think, back in 2001, we estimated that Although the passing of Mr. Louis Flores stand that, especially new Members on there were 60 of those lines, and now Ruiz brings sadness to his family, friends, and both sides of the aisle that weren’t we are down to 20. So I can understand community, we believe his legacy of hard work here for the debate last year, that got the concern that maybe we would ex- and kindness will forever live on, through the impression maybe they and their haust that supply. those whose lives he so graciously lived. constituents felt that this administra- So Congressman CASTLE, a Repub- Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, tion and the former leadership of this lican Member, Congresswoman thank you for allowing me to be here Congress in the 109th was spending DEGETTE, a Democratic Member, along at this time. nothing, was refusing to fund stem cell with the Senate colleagues, Senator

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.044 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3468 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 REID, Senator KENNEDY, Senator SPEC- Fox and the ravages of Parkinson’s dis- and Medical Center. And I want her to TER, in a bipartisan way, felt the same ease, or Christopher Reeves, as he sits share with us some of the research that thing. So these two bills came before there with the breathing machine, is going on there at Wake Forest and the respective bodies in the 109th Con- struggling to talk to the American peo- the Wake Forest School of Medicine. gress. We did pass the Castle-DeGette ple about his struggles, and then they I had an opportunity, Madam Speak- bill, but the Senate failed to deal with get that call, and it is a pollster and er, as I was returning to Washington that, until finally it was decided that they say, would you be in favor of yesterday, to stop at Wake Forest and they would go ahead and pass a com- using embryonic stem cells in research to visit with Dr. Anthony Atala, who is panion bill, and then my colleagues, of to help cure these diseases? And of the president of the Institute for Re- course, know that the President, as he course that individual may also just generative Medicine at Wake Forest had said all along that he would veto happen to have a family member who is University, and to spend about 3 hours that bill, and he did. in the nursing home suffering from with Dr. Atala, to have an opportunity But what I want to make sure that something like Alzheimer’s is an exam- to meet with Dr. Hatch, the president the new Members understand is that ple. of Wake Forest University, and Dr. people like myself, who are pro-life And sure, I mean, Madam Speaker, if Richard Dean who is the dean of the Members of this body, we support stem I were one of those individuals that got medical school. And with the 150, they cell research, with only one exception. that call, I would say, absolutely. Ab- weren’t all there, but quite a few were, We don’t support research that re- solutely. So I am surprised the number Ph.D. and M.D. scientists that are quires killing of a human life. And last was only 75 percent. I would think it working there at that great university, year, I, along with Congressman Ros- would be 95 percent, if you phrase the and some of the things that they are coe Bartlett, the gentleman from question in that way. doing to give us an opportunity to ob- Maryland, a Ph.D. physiologist who Now, on the other hand, if you said, tain pluripotent, almost embryonic- knows more about this subject, I guess, and you prefaced that with, would you like stem cells that will help us do this than anybody in this body, and we be in favor of your tax dollars going to kind of research that our colleagues worked together to develop an alter- fund this research on embryonic stem want us to continue, and the President native bill that would allow us, we the cells that might help cure one of these wants to fund, with no collateral dam- Federal Government, to fund research devastating diseases, then no doubt age. programs that would use embryonic- that number would go down a little bit. So at this point I want to yield to my like cells to get to the same point I don’t know how much, but no doubt. colleague, VIRGINIA FOXX from North without destroying human life. And When you start saying, well, now, it is Carolina, to tell us a little bit more some of the things that were suggested your money. It is not somebody else’s about that program and take as much in the Bartlett-Gingrey bill that we money, in the abstract. It is your time as she wants. And we will con- voted on, in this House, in the 109th money. Now, do you want to spend tinue our dialogue. And I yield now to Congress, were to obtain an embryonic your money, the numbers would not be my good friend, VIRGINIA FOXX. cell from a stem cell from an embryo as high. Ms. FOXX. Thank you, Dr. GINGREY, without destroying that embryo, to be But in this, the point I am getting to, Congressman GINGREY. I appreciate able to, essentially, biopsy with a fine Madam Speaker, in this next slide, if your starting off this hour this evening needle and obtain those embryonic you ask the question this way, and this on this important issue. I also appre- cells without killing or even harming is the only fair way to ask this sci- ciate your having gone to Wake Forest in any way that little embryo which entific question, say to the individual, to visit the Institute for Regenerative had the potential, of course, for human stem cells are the basic cells from Medicine. Some of the most important life. We didn’t want to destroy that which all of a person’s tissues and or- research that is happening in the area life. gans develop. Congress is considering of stem cell research is occurring at And this was part of the Roscoe Bart- the question of Federal funding for ex- the Institute for Regenerative Medi- lett-Gingrey bill. And we felt that this periments using stem cells from human cine at Wake Forest University. And I was sort of a win/win situation, Madam embryos. The live embryos would be am very proud to represent them here Speaker and my colleagues, because we destroyed in their first week of devel- in the Congress. would be able to get to the same point opment to obtain these cells. Do you I am going to talk a little bit about without any collateral damage. And of support or oppose using your Federal what they are doing, but I want to reit- course the collateral damage that I am tax dollars for such experiments? That erate some of the things that you have talking about is the destruction of a is the question that should be asked. been saying. I got out my file today on human life. And when it was asked, in a poll con- this and looked back at my notes, and And I want to go through a few of the ducted by the International Commu- it was almost 2 years ago that I stood posters that we have, and I want to nications Research in May of 2006, this on this floor one evening, a little ear- point out, Madam Speaker, that a lot is what the survey said. Those who sup- lier than this, and spoke for about 40 of our colleagues who are in support of port that, 38 percent. Those who oppose minutes about the issue of stem cell re- destroying those human embryos, kind it, 47.8 percent. So, Madam Speaker, search. And I have told this story of indiscriminately, so that we can ob- that really is the crux of what we are many, many times to people, because tain the embryonic cells that hopefully talking about in regard to, do the many may wonder why we are here can lead to cure of some of these dis- American people support research speaking sometimes to very few of our eases that I mentioned, would say in using embryonic stem cells that result colleagues who are here in the Cham- their argument, look, 75, 80 percent of in the wanton, indiscriminate destruc- ber. But I tell this story because it was the American people are in favor of tion of a human embryo, the so-called about 9 o’clock at night, and as I said, this. How could we deny that over- extra, and I will get into that point I spoke for about 40 minutes. And when whelming show of support when you later in the discussion, extra, throw- I got back to my office, the staffer said ask the American people do they want away, nobody wants them, little ba- to me, you just had a call from a gen- us to do this, and therefore, we think bies. tleman from Maryland who had never we should, and we are going to pass And if you believe as I do that life be- watched C–SPAN before, was channel this bill, over the President’s objec- gins at conception, these embryos are surfing and saw this woman standing tion. several days to a week, maybe even 10 on the floor of the House and wondered Well, Madam Speaker, as we all days old, long past the moment of con- how in the world did she get to be on know, in regard to a response, it really ception. the floor of the House when he thought sort of depends on how you ask the We are blessed tonight, my col- only Members of Congress could speak question. If you ask the question, and leagues, to have one of our colleagues on the floor of the House. And I didn’t maybe a person sitting at home gets a join me in this discussion. And she just look like I was a Member of Congress, telephone call of a pollster, and they happens to represent a wonderful dis- so he stopped the channel surfing and have been watching television, and trict in North Carolina that includes watched and listened to me talk about they have just seen a clip of Michael J. the Wake Forest Baptist University the issue of stem cell research and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.131 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3469 called my office and said that he was so Mr. GINGREY. Reclaiming my time, issue so that they won’t think that the grateful for that because he had not on that point for just a second, Dr. President is being very arbitrary when understood the issue like I had ex- Atala’s research in regard to amniotic he vetoes the bill and that we are not plained it. fluid cells, which that study was pub- being arbitrary when we uphold that b 2330 lished just this January of 2007 in the veto, which I hope that we will do. And journal Nature Biotechnology, was an we need to explain to people the eth- And he wanted to just call and thank amazing accomplishment in what Dr. ical questions that we are dealing with. me for that. And that has been one of Atala says. And I know this, as an As I pointed out in my comments a the things that has kept me going and OBGYN physician from the great State couple of years ago, and I want to say doing these Special Orders at night, of Georgia in my prior life where I it again, never in this country have we thinking that even if we only reach a practiced for 26 years, delivering 5,200 sanctioned research that would harm few people who are watching, it is im- babies. What Dr. Atala is doing, you other human beings. There was the re- portant to do that, and it is particu- can obtain this amniotic fluid from a search done in the 1930s that was larly important on this issue. wrong. We have condemned it. Since And I think how you described, Dr. pregnant mom, pregnant woman, in the process of trying to make sure that she that time we have had very, very GINGREY, the way the survey question should be asked, explaining to people is not carrying a baby that has a ge- strong and ethical programs to protect exactly what is going to happen as a netic defect. A lot of times this is done adults from diseases that would cause result of the research, is very, very im- if a woman is a little older. She is not them harm and from diseases that portant because we all know you get old at age 35 but is considered a little would cause them death. And yet peo- about whatever results you want to older for childbearing and the in- ple don’t see the same problem when from a survey depending on how you creased risk of genetic defects. So a lot they are dealing with embryos, and we ask the question. But I think describ- of women do have this amniocentesis have to do that. We must do that. We ing what stem cell research is, is ex- done. And if not an amniocentesis, a bi- are crossing an ethical Rubicon when tremely important, and talking about opsy actually can be taken of a part of we sanction using embryos for research what is being done. You have presented the placenta through the cervix as or creating embryos for this research. I some facts and figures there already, early as 9 weeks of the pregnancy or think that it is really going over the and I want to do it again. I just think obtain the amniotic fluid with a very line, and we must tell people that, and that every time we talk about it, we fine needle as early as 10 or 11 weeks of we must have them understand the need to talk about it. the pregnancy. long-term implications of that for our People who are pro-life support stem So I just wanted to point that out to society and for the human race. We cell research. I support stem cell re- my colleague that we are just talking don’t believe in doing that in this search. You do. Every other person about a few weeks more mature in get- country. ting those cells, which are almost em- here who considers himself or herself a b 2340 pro-lifer supports stem cell research. bryonic because they are so early. I think that we have to be very care- But what we want is research that does Ms. FOXX. Right. Well, thank you ful again that we explain we can get not require the killing of human life. again for pointing out more of the sci- That is what is important to us. We entific evidence that we have. And I better results from doing things ethi- also know, as you have pointed out, think it is very important that a per- cally than we are going to get from that a lot of money is being spent on son with your background as an doing things unethically, and we don’t embryonic stem cell research. A lot of OBGYN physician can understand this start down a slippery slope of treating Federal dollars are being spent on that. issue so well and explain it. I think human beings in the wrong way. And I think, frankly, that we are pay- that all the physicians on our side of I want to thank you again for coming ing more than our fair share for re- the aisle are very strong pro-lifers and tonight and starting this discussion on search that many people find to be are working very hard to get the infor- this very, very important issue. I hope morally repugnant. mation out about this issue. there is at least one gentleman out You gave some statistics. Mine are As you point out, those stem cells, there or one person out there, whether not long-term statistics. I have the 2006 those coming from the umbilical cord they are in Maryland or some other numbers. and those coming from the placenta State, who is watching this for the In 2006 NIH spent $38 million on em- and the amniotic fluid, have shown tre- first time and understanding the issue bryonic stem cell research, compared mendous results. and the distinction that we are making to $200 million on human nonembry- The other thing that the media does between doing ethical research on onic stem cell research, adult and cord not point out and that people who are adult stem cells and what most of us blood research. That is very important proposing that we go to embryonic consider is unethical research on em- research. That is the research that has stem cell research with government bryos, which will destroy them; and given us some results in terms of cur- funding, they don’t point out the fact that we can continue to use funds to ing disease. We have gotten no positive that over 70 diseases have been treated support programs like Dr. Tony Atala’s results from embryonic stem cell re- by adult stem cells and zero treat- research at Wake Forest University search, and that is the point I think ments have come out of embryonic and other places where they are seeing that needs to be made over and over stem cell research, even though embry- excellent results. And if we take that again. onic stem cell research just passed the money away, we may be denying the And one of the reasons I am very ex- 25-year mark. For over 25 years, sci- kinds of cures that many people say cited about the research that Dr. Atala entists have been looking into using they want to get; but by ignoring the and his team are doing is because they embryonic stem cells, and we have adult stem cell research victories, we are doing research that doesn’t require really gotten nothing but negative re- may be slowing up the great results the destruction of human life. Dr. sults from that, and we have gotten that we could get. And I yield back to Atala, who came to Wake Forest from tremendously positive results from you. Harvard and brought a large team, as adult stem cell research. Mr. GINGREY. I thank the you said, with him, is a tissue engi- So that is why it is so important that gentlelady from North Carolina who I neering specialist, and he has found we always distinguish between adult said represents Wake Forest University that amniotic fluid stem cells have stem cell research and embryonic stem and Dr. Atala and his team there. those pluripotent properties that you cell research. We must do that when we And her closing comments, Madam pointed out earlier and grow as fast as talk about it. Again, it is like what Speaker, segue really into my next embryonic stem cells. And I know that you have said, pointing out the ques- slide in this poster that I’ve got. What he talked to you about the research, tionnaires and the surveys, making Ms. FOXX said is we have to not go particularly in growing bladders, that sure that people get asked the right down that slippery slope. We have to has occurred there and the tremen- question and that we describe the issue consider the collateral damage of what dously positive response that he has very, very well. We need very much to we do. We have to be very, very careful gotten. educate the American public on this that we are not playing God. And I say

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.132 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3470 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 that with all honest, sincerity, that we And I, like our friend Ms. FOXX, ap- crat, pro-life, pro-choice, would not have an opportunity to do ethical stem preciate so much the time you spent in want to support that, where it is a win- cell research; and by that I simply explaining this, Dr. GINGREY. win situation. I yield back. mean balancing life and science. You know, when you and I discussed Mr. GOHMERT. Thank you. I appre- Ms. FOXX talked about a number of this, and if we could exchange in a col- ciate the gentleman from Georgia the techniques. She talked about ob- loquy here for a moment, but you and yielding. taining stem cells from umbilical cord I discussed this back at the time when And I know we both share that hope blood. She talked about obtaining we were having a vote on this matter. that springs eternal in the human adult stem cells from bone marrow or I came to the floor very excited be- breast, that this is beginning to soak from blood. And she talked about the cause this amniotic fluid stem cell in- in. In fact, you know, you wonder who many successes utilizing research with formation was just exciting because it is listening, who is paying attention. adult stem cell research. And the didn’t grow tumors. It wouldn’t require Are other people getting it? I was talk- cures, I think she mentioned 70 dif- throwing away embryos. That was ex- ing to seven friends that are here from ferent diseases, including Type I diabe- citing news. And I just felt in my Smith County with Sky Ranch, a tes. There was just a study from Brazil heart, you know, we just get this infor- Christian camp, and every one of them where 13 of 15 Type I juvenile, we call mation to the floor and let those folks, get it. They understand. it, it is not always in children, but a most of them on the other side of the b 2350 lot of children get juvenile diabetes, aisle, but all the people who are saying the severe kind of diabetes that almost we have got to dispose of embryos, we They know the value of human life, always requires insulin therapy, and have got to kill these unborn children and they are passing that on. And even with good control, leads to devin order to get the stem cells that are those with whom they deal, they are astating complications, such as blind- embryonic stem cells. Here is this getting it. So the message is getting ness, kidney failure, the need for a kid- great research, the great information out here. And I really believe with the ney transplant. Thirteen out of 15 of that shows these are better than em- optimism that my dear friend from these Type I diabetics in Brazil who bryonic, these amniotic stem cells. And Georgia has and that we have, that were treated with adult stem cells were that is exciting. Nobody has to die to there are so many good people in this found to be months later developing in- provide stem cells for anybody else to body, and I was so pleased to learn that sulin on their own. These stem cells live. We got to the floor, and my heart when I got here, that I believe in the went to the pancreas and became the was broken. They didn’t care. They end they will get it. They will under- so-called islet cells, and now 13 out of didn’t care. stand we don’t have to make that ter- 15 of those patients are not having to Mr. GINGREY. If the gentleman ribly difficult, unethical decision to use insulin at all to control their dia- would yield, and I really so much ap- end some life in order to take some- betes. preciate him pointing that out. thing from that one because we have So some of the ethical ways. And I think what the gentleman is saying made the philosophical decision that then of course we talked about Dr. is, no tumor formation, no collateral we think that this person means more Atala, who happens also to be chair- damage, no destruction of life, lives to us than this other person, so we take man of the Department of Urology and that could be adopted and become a this organ, we take those stem cells operates every day on what you might ‘‘snowflake’’ baby, we have a slide later and kill them to allow this one to live, call routine things, but at the same on to show. But I wanted to mention to and we shouldn’t have to go there. And time is spending a lot of his effort run- my colleague, and I like his comments the amniotic fluid stem cells I think ning the Institute for Regenerative on this. In addition to the work that provide that kind of excitement. Medicine, where they are studying Dr. Atala is doing at Wake Forest, and I thank the gentleman from Georgia ways to obtain, through amniotic fluid, I didn’t know this, this is the last year, and appreciate your interest and care cells that are neither completely em- I say to the gentleman from Texas, but and love for life, all life, even life on bryonic nor completely adult, but they in my great State of Georgia, at the both sides of the aisle and for what you have qualities that are very similar to University of Georgia, a Ph.D. re- are doing here. both, in being similar to embryonic searcher, Dr. Steve Stice, has a project Mr. GINGREY. Judge Gohmert, I cells, those that my colleagues on the whereby embryonic stem cells from thank you for your kind remarks; and other side of the aisle mostly, although embryos can be obtained if it is an em- of course you are here not to praise me some Republicans supported the Cas- bryo that once it is rethawed and there but to praise God and life and the sanc- tle-DeGette as well, the need to use is maybe an attempt to place that in a tity of life at the extremes, the embryo these cells. Well, if you can get the mother’s womb, but if you look at it and the senior citizens as well. amniotic cells, they can double every under the microscope, he can tell if My colleagues, Madam Speaker, I 36 hours just like the embryonic cells that embryo has the potential for fur- cannot over-emphasize the point as I that we are talking about in destroying ther generation. It is not dead, but you look at this and reference you to this a human embryo. But also, similar to might equate it to, say, a person who next slide. No lives, no lives are thrown an adult cell, they do not form tumors. has no brainwave activity, the other away. And that is one of the huge problems We have heard, all of our colleagues that the research on embryonic cells extreme of life, and has no chance of have heard people speak on this floor has resulted in. recovery. Well, Dr. Stice, his research How do you solve that problem? Well, would be to obtain those embryonic and say there are 400,000 of these extra with Dr. Atala’s research, we wouldn’t stem cells from those embryos so you throw-away embryos available for this have that problem. These cells would wouldn’t be destroying human life. research, and they are going to be and double every 36 hours, and they don’t And I yield back to my colleague be- I have even heard people say, thrown form tumors. The best of both worlds. cause I wanted to make him aware of down the toilet, that they are garbage. I see my colleague from Texas has that. Our Senator, our junior Senator, I have heard the expression, and I know joined us. He is a fellow insomniac, al- who is so prescient and has a way of this is appalling, Madam Speaker, but though it is a little earlier out in Texas solving problems when you’ve got a di- to hear the expression that it is noth- and maybe his constituents are still vide like this, Senator JOHNNY ing but medical waste and they are up, certainly some are in California; ISAKSON, along with Senator NORM going to be thrown away anyway, I but it is great to have him with me to- COLEMAN from Minnesota, introduced a know that gives many of us and you night. bill in the Senate last week and it and me and many of my colleagues At this point I would like to yield to passed overwhelmingly. I think it got chill bumps to think about that. the gentleman from east Texas and let 75 votes. And I hope that we will have But the point is of these 400,000, those him join in on this very, very impor- an opportunity to vote on that bill in are not all extra and scheduled for the tant topic. this House if, Madam Speaker, Ms. trash can and available for the har- Mr. GOHMERT. Well, I appreciate PELOSI, will allow that to come to vesting of embryonic stem cells. The my good friend from Georgia, the good voice for a vote; because I can’t see fact is in April 2002, there were a total doctor, yielding. why any Member, Republican or Demo- of 396,000 embryos that had been placed

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.134 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3471 in storage, frozen for possible later use. are pro-life. Some of us are pro-choice. Ms. WATERS, for 5 minutes, today. Of those, and that is what this slide Some of us are Democrats, some of us Mr. PAYNE, for 5 minutes, today. points out, 88 percent of these frozen are Republicans. But if we have an op- Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. embryos, in fact close to 350,000, are portunity to obtain embryonic stem Mr. MCDERMOTT, for 5 minutes, being held for future family building cells, maybe they do have more poten- today. by the donors. They have not com- tial than the adult stem cells. I don’t Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. pleted their family. Maybe they have know. I do know they have this prob- Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, for 5 not gotten pregnant yet. They have not lem with tumor formation. But if the minutes, today. conceived. So 88 percent are going to argument is our hands have been tied, Mr. KUCINICH, for 5 minutes, today. remain preserved in a frozen state so although we have funded embryonic Mr. HOLT, for 5 minutes, today. that hopefully these infertile couples stem cell research on those existing (The following Members (at the re- will hopefully at some point in the fu- cell lines, but if the opportunity is quest of Mr. POE) to revise and extend ture become parents. there and we considered that tonight their remarks and include extraneous And only 2.8 percent, about 8,700 of and talked about Dr. Atala’s work on material:) the frozen embryos, are designated for obtaining nearly embryonic, nearly Mr. MORAN of Kansas, for 5 minutes, destruction. Couples a lot of times are totipotential cells, we also can do April 18. asked the question: Well, would you things like biopsy an embryo, that is Ms. FOXX, for 5 minutes, today. like to give this baby up for destruc- called pregenetic diagnosis, and we do Mr. JONES of North Carolina, for 5 tion so that we can get these embry- that all the time now. minutes, April 23 and 24. onic stem cells, or would you rather If an embryo is from a family that (The following Member (at her own just throw them away? Well, half of the has a congenital defect like hemophilia request) to revise and extend her re- people that own those embryos would or muscular dystrophy, you can biopsy marks and include extraneous mate- say for whatever reason, maybe the that embryo to make sure that condi- rial:) same reason that folks sometimes say tion does not exist. If you can do that Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. no, I don’t want an autopsy on my without harming the embryo, and it f loved one; or no, I don’t want to donate has been done thousands of times, we ADJOURNMENT an organ when I am in a massive auto- ought to be able to do the same tech- Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I mobile accident and I am brain dead. A nique and get embryonic stem cells. It move that the House do now adjourn. lot of people will say, look, I don’t takes some research. The motion was agreed to; accord- want my embryo, my child, to be put If we can continue to fund scientists ingly (at midnight), the House ad- in a blender for the sake of obtaining like Dr. Stice at the University of journed until today, Wednesday, April those embryonic stem cells. I would Georgia in regard to using those essen- 18, 2007, at 10 a.m. rather it be thrown away. tially brain dead embryos that don’t So this business of 400,000 available, have any potential for further life and f it is nothing near that amount. It is get those embryonic stem cells, we EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, very important for people and our col- don’t have to get into this argument, ETC. leagues to understand and to put that Madam Speaker, between the pro-life Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive in perspective. and pro-choice community. communications were taken from the Isn’t that, my colleagues, the way to Madam Speaker, I know our time is Speaker’s table and referred as follows: running short. We are rapidly ap- go? I hope there is an opportunity this proaching the time that this body will year in the 110th Congress to vote on 1076. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- ment of the Treasury, transmitting a 6- be adjourning for the day, a busy day. that bill and give the President some- month periodic report on the national emer- And I have one poster in particular thing that he can sign and get back to gency with respect to persons who commit, that I want my colleagues to take a us and make it law. threaten to commit, or support terrorism close look at. This is the one that I am f that was declared in Executive Order 13224 of presenting now with these precious September 23, 2001, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. LEAVE OF ABSENCE children. 1641(c); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. These were frozen embryos. These By unanimous consent, leave of ab- 1077. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- were part of the so-called medical sence was granted to: ment of the Treasury, transmitting the Mr. HIGGINS (at the request of Mr. semiannual report detailing payments made waste that was going to be thrown to Cuba as a result of the provision of tele- HOYER) for today and the balance of away; or, indeed, put in a blender and communications services pursuant to De- churned up, destroying these little the week. partment of the Treasury specific licenses, lives. Thank God the ones on this post- Mr. HILL (at the request of Mr. pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 6032; to the Committee er were adopted by infertile couples, HOYER) for today on account of official on Foreign Affairs. with the permission from the couples business in the district. 1078. A letter from the Assistant Legal Ad- who owned those embryos. These are Mr. WALSH of New York (at the re- viser for Treaty Affairs, Department of what we refer to as the snowflake ba- quest of Mr. BOEHNER) for today and State, transmitting copies of international agreements, other than treaties, entered into bies. the balance of the week on account of family reasons. by the United States, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. Last year when we were debating this 112b; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. issue, many of them, the parents went f 1079. A letter from the Assistant Legal Ad- out of their way to take time off work, SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED viser for Treaty Affairs, Department of State, transmitting copies of international to buy an airline ticket and fly up here By unanimous consent, permission to with these toddlers, some months old, agreements, other than treaties, entered into address the House, following the legis- by the United States, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. and some a few years old. And I saw at lative program and any special orders the White House, as President Bush ve- 112b; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. heretofore entered, was granted to: 1080. A letter from the Assistant Secretary toed this bill last year, he was holding (The following Members (at the re- for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, a set of snowflake baby twins. Indeed, quest of Mr. PALLONE) to revise and ex- transmitting a report entitled ‘‘Supporting throw away medical waste. I think not. tend their remarks and include extra- Democracy and Human Rights: The U.S. These little children on this poster neous material:) Record 2006-2007,’’ pursuant to Public Law 107-228, section 665; to the Committee on For- look a lot like my six grandchildren. I Ms. KILPATRICK, for 5 minutes, today. eign Affairs. have three precious granddaughters Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, for 5 min- and three precious grandsons, and I 1081. A letter from the Assistant Secretary utes, today. for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, think how precious life is. Mr. WYNN, for 5 minutes, today. We need to think about this very, transmitting pursuant to section 36(c) of the Mr. PALLONE, for 5 minutes, today. Arms Export Control Act, certification re- very closely. I want to ask my col- Ms. NORTON, for 5 minutes, today. garding the proposed license for the export of leagues this question, just like the sur- Ms. LEE, for 5 minutes, today. defense articles and services to the Govern- vey, the polling done and you ask the Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, for 5 minutes, ment of Russia (Transmittal No. DDTC 036- question in the right way: some of us today. 07); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.135 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3472 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007 1082. A letter from the Assistant Secretary pared in accordance with Section 203 of the the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, Notification and Federal Employee Anti- Directives; PZL-Bielsko Model SZD-50-3 transmitting pursuant to section 36(c) of the discrimination and Retaliation Act of 2002 ‘‘Puchacz’’ Gliders [Docket No. FAA-2006- Arms Export Control Act, certification re- (No FEAR Act), Public Law 107-174; to the 25810; Directorate Identifier 2006-CE-49-AD; garding the proposed license for the export of Committee on Oversight and Government Amendment 39-14838; AD 2006-24-09] (RIN: defense articles and services to the Govern- Reform. 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant ment of Vietnam (Transmittal No. DDTC 1096. A letter from the Program Analyst, to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on 016-07); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Department of Transportation, transmitting Transportation and Infrastructure. 1083. A letter from the Assistant Secretary the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness 1104. A letter from the Program Analyst, for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, Directives; McDonnell Douglas MD-11 and Department of Transportation, transmitting transmitting pursuant to section 36(c) of the -11F Airplanes [Docket No. FAA-2006-25089; the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Arms Export Control Act, certification re- Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-091-AD; Directives; Air Tractor, Inc. Models AT-501, garding the proposed license for the export of Amendment 39-14873; AD 2007-01-02] (RIN: AT-502, AT-502A, AT-502B, and AT-503A Air- defense articles and services to the Govern- 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant planes [Docket No. FAA-2004-19961; Direc- ment of Japan (Transmittal No. DDTC 037- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on torate Identifier 2004-CE-48-AD; Amendment 07); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Transportation and Infrastructure. 39-14839; AD 2006-24-10] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- 1084. A letter from the Assistant Secretary 1097. A letter from the Program Analyst, ceived March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, Department of Transportation, transmitting 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- transmitting pursuant to section 36(c) of the the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness tation and Infrastructure. Arms Export Control Act, certification re- Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Se- 1105. A letter from the Program Analyst, garding the proposed license for the export of ries Airplanes [Docket No. FAA-2006-25670; Department of Transportation, transmitting defense articles and services to the Govern- Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-027-AD; the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness ments of Russia, Ukraine, and Norway Amendment 39-14868; AD 2006-26-10] (RIN: Directives; International Aero Engines AG (Transmittal No. DDTC 035-07); to the Com- 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant (IAE) V2522-A5, V2524-A5, V2527-A5, V2527E- mittee on Foreign Affairs. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on A5, V2527M-A5, V2530-A5, and V2533-A5 Tur- 1085. A letter from the Assistant Secretary Transportation and Infrastructure. bofan Engines. [Docket No. FAA-2006-26013; for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, 1098. A letter from the Program Analyst, Directorate Identifier 2003-NE-21-AD; transmitting a report mandated in the Par- Department of Transportation, transmitting Amendment 39-14841; AD 2006-25-01] (RIN: ticipation of Taiwan in the World Health Or- the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant ganization Act, 2004 (Pub. L. 108-235), Section Directives; Stemme GmbH & Co. KG Model to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on S10-VT Gliders [FAA-2006-26518; Directorate 1(c); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Transportation and Infrastructure. 1086. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- Identifier 2006-CE-84-AD; Amendment 39- 1106. A letter from the Program Analyst, tor, OHCM, Department of Energy, transmit- 14874; AD 2007-01-03] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Department of Transportation, transmitting ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Directives; Raytheon Aircraft Company tation and Infrastructure. Models 1900, 1900C, and 1900D Airplanes Oversight and Government Reform. 1099. A letter from the Program Analyst, 1087. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- [Docket No. FAA-2006-26258; Directorate Department of Transportation, transmitting tor, OHCM, Department of Energy, transmit- Identifier 2006-CE-67-AD; Amendment 39- the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- 14840; AD 2006-24-11] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Model S-61L, N, R, and NM Helicopters 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Oversight and Government Reform. [Docket No. FAA-2006-25824; Directorate 1088. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- tation and Infrastructure. Identifier 2004-SW-23-AD; Amendment 39- 1107. A letter from the Program Analyst, tor, OHCM, Department of Energy, transmit- 14876; AD 2007-01-05] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Department of Transportation, transmitting ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Directives; Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and Oversight and Government Reform. tation and Infrastructure. A340-300 Series Airplanes [Docket No. FAA- 1089. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- 1100. A letter from the Program Analyst, 2006-25389; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-059- tor, OHCM, Department of Energy, transmit- Department of Transportation, transmitting AD; Amendment 39-14870; AD 2006-26-12] (RIN: ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on Directives; Boeing Model 707-100 Long Body, to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. -100B Long Body, -100B Short Body, -E3F, Transportation and Infrastructure. 1090. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- -300, -300B, and -300C Series Airplanes; Model 1108. A letter from the Program Analyst, tor, HCM, Department of Energy, transmit- 727-100 and -200 Series Airplanes; Model 737- Department of Transportation, transmitting ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- 200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes; the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on Model 747-100B, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, Directives; Turbomeca Model Arrius 2B1, Oversight and Government Reform. 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747SR, and 747SP Se- 2B1A, 2B2, Turboshaft Engines [Docket No. 1091. A letter from the Deputy CHCO/Direc- ries Airplanes; Model 757-200 and 757-200PF FAA-2006-26138; Directorate Identifier 2006- tor, HCM, Department of Energy, transmit- Series Airplanes; and Model 767-200 and -300 NE-38-AD; Amendment 39-14865; AD 2006-26- ting a report pursuant to the Federal Vacan- Series Airplanes; Equipped with Observer or 07] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, cies Reform Act of 1998; to the Committee on Attendant Seats [Docket No. FAA-2006-24948; pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Oversight and Government Reform. Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-030-AD; mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- 1092. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Amendment 39-14871; AD 2006-26-13] (RIN: ture. ment of Energy, transmitting the Depart- 2120-AA64) Received March 15, to the Com- 1109. A letter from the Program Analyst, ment’s determination and findings of the site mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- Department of Transportation, transmitting at Yucca Mountain for the development of a ture. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness geologic repository for spent nuclear fuel 1101. A letter from the Program Analyst, Directives ; Boeing Model 737-200, -300, -400, and high level radioactive waste, pursuant to Department of Transportation, transmitting and -500 Series Airplanes [Docket No. FAA- 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(7); to the Committee on Over- the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness 2005-22629; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-089- sight and Government Reform. Directives; BAE Systems (Operations) Lim- AD; Amendment 39-14867; AD 2006-26-09] (RIN: 1093. A letter from the Director, Office of ited Model BAe 146 and Avro 146-RJ Air- 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant Civil Rights and Diversity, Department of planes [Docket No. FAA-2006-25851; Direc- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy, transmitting the Department’s an- torate Identifier 2006-NM-133-AD; Amend- Transportation and Infrastructure. nual report for Fiscal Year 2006, Fiscal Year ment 39-14872; AD 2007-01-01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) 1110. A letter from the Program Analyst, 2005, and Fiscal Years 1999-2004 prepared in received March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Department of Transportation, transmitting accordance with Section 203 of the Notifica- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness tion and Federal Employee Antidiscrimina- tation and Infrastructure. Directives; Raytheon Aircraft Company tion and Retaliation Act of 2002 (No FEAR 1102. A letter from the Program Analyst, Models C90A, B200, B200C, B300, and B300C Act), Public Law 107-174; to the Committee Department of Transportation, transmitting Airplanes [Docket No. FAA-2006-25157; Direc- on Oversight and Government Reform. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness torate Identifier 2006-CE-34-AD; Amendment 1094. A letter from the Assistant Adminis- Directives; Raytheon Aircraft Company 39-14814; AD 2006-23-02] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- trator, OARM, Environmental Protection Model 390 Airplanes [Docket No. FAA-2006- ceived March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Agency, transmitting a report pursuant to 25745; Directorate Identifier 2006-CE-47-AD; 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- the Federal Vacancies Reform Act of 1998; to Amendment 39-14866; AD 2006-26-08] (RIN: tation and Infrastructure. the Committee on Oversight and Govern- 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant 1111. A letter from the Program Analyst, ment Reform. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Department of Transportation, transmitting 1095. A letter from the Board Members, Transportation and Infrastructure. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Railroad Retirement Board, transmitting 1103. A letter from the Program Analyst, Directives; Bombardier Model DHC-8-400 Se- the Board’s annual report for FY 2006 pre- Department of Transportation, transmitting ries Airplanes [Docket No. FAA-2006-25723;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L17AP7.000 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3473 Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-007-AD; Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- under part A of the Medicare Program on a Amendment 39-14858; AD 2006-25-17] (RIN: sources. H.R. 865. A bill to grant rights-of- reasonable cost basis for anesthesia services 2120-AA64) received March 15, 2007, pursuant way for electric transmission lines over cer- furnished by an anesthesiologist in certain to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on tain Native allotments in the State of Alas- rural hospitals in the same manner as pay- Transportation and Infrastructure. ka (Rept. 110–91). Referred to the Committee ments are provided for anesthesia services 1112. A letter from the Program Analyst, of the Whole House on the State of the furnished by anesthesiologist assistants and Department of Transportation, transmitting Union. certified registered nurse anesthetists in the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- such hospitals; to the Committee on Ways Directives; Bombardier Model CL-600-1A11 sources. H.R. 285. A bill to establish the and Means. (CL-600), CL-600-2A12 (CL-601), and CL-600- Steel Industry National Historic Site in the By Mr. BAIRD (for himself, Mr. 2B16 (CL-601-3A and CL-601-3R) Airplanes State of Pennsylvania; with an amendment EHLERS, Mr. GORDON, Ms. HOOLEY, [Docket No. FAA-2006-25645; Directorate (Rept. 110–92). Referred to the Committee of Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. MCNERNEY, and Mr. Identifier 2005-NM-201-AD; Amendment 39- the Whole House on the State of the Union. HILL): 14857; AD 2006-25-16] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- H.R. 1867. A bill to authorize appropria- March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. sources. H.R. 249. A bill to restore the prohi- tions for fiscal years 2008, 2009, and 2010 for 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- bition on the commercial sale and slaughter the National Science Foundation, and for tation and Infrastructure. of wild free-roaming horses and burros (Rept. other purposes; to the Committee on Science 1113. A letter from the Program Analyst, 110–93). Referred to the Committee of the and Technology. Department of Transportation, transmitting Whole House on the State of the Union. By Mr. WU (for himself, Mr. GINGREY, the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- Mr. GORDON, Mr. HALL of Texas, Mr. Directives; Boeing Model 777 Airplanes sources. H.R. 162. A bill to adjust the bound- MITCHELL, and Mr. EHLERS): [Docket No. FAA-2006-23817; Directorate ary of the Barataria Preserve Unit of the H.R. 1868. A bill to authorize appropria- Identifier 2005-NM-176-AD; Amendment 39- Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and tions for the National Institute of Standards 14846; AD 2006-25-05] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Preserve in the State of Louisiana, and for and Technology for fiscal years 2008, 2009, March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. other purposes (Rept. 110–94). Referred to the and 2010, and for other purposes; to the Com- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- Committee of the Whole House on the State mittee on Science and Technology. tation and Infrastructure. of the Union. By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: 1114. A letter from the Program Analyst, Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- H.R. 1869. A bill to enhance the ability of Department of Transportation, transmitting sources. H.R. 319. A bill to establish the community banks to foster economic growth the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Journey Through Hallowed Ground National and serve their communities, boost small Directives; Columbia Aircraft Manufacturing Heritage Area, and for other purposes; with businesses, increase individual savings, and Models LC41-550FG and LC42-550FG Air- an amendment (Rept. 110–95). Referred to the for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- planes [Docket No. FAA-2006-26400; Direc- Committee of the Whole House on the State nancial Services, and in addition to the Com- torate Identifier 2006-CE-71-AD; Amendment of the Union. mittees on Ways and Means, and Small Busi- 39-14948; AD 2006-25-08] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- Mr. MCGOVERN: Committee on Rules. ness, for a period to be subsequently deter- ceived March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. House Resolution 301. Resolution providing mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1257) to sideration of such provisions as fall within tation and Infrastructure. amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 to the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. 1115. A letter from the Program Analyst, provide shareholders with an advisory vote By Mr. TOWNS (for himself, Mr. WAX- Department of Transportation, transmitting on executive compensation (Rept. 110–96). MAN, Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Mr. the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness Referred to the House Calendar. KUCINICH, and Mr. MURPHY of Con- Directives; Airbus Model A300 Airplanes Mr. HASTINGS of Florida: Committee on necticut): [Docket No. FAA-2006-25423; Directorate Rules. House Resolution 302. Resolution pro- H.R. 1870. A bill to amend title 31, United Identifier 2006-NM-029-AD; Amendment 39- viding for consideration of the bill (H.R. 1361) States Code, to prohibit delinquent Federal 14845; AD 2006-25-04] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received to improve the disaster relief programs of debtors from being eligible to enter into Fed- March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. the Small Business Administration, and for eral contracts, and for other purposes; to the 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- other purposes (Rept. 110–97). Referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government tation and Infrastructure. House Calendar. Reform, and in addition to the Committee on 1116. A letter from the Program Analyst, f Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- Department of Transportation, transmitting quently determined by the Speaker, in each the Department’s final rule — Airworthiness PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS case for consideration of such provisions as Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Model AB139 Heli- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public fall within the jurisdiction of the committee copters [Docket No. FAA-2006-25703; Direc- bills and resolutions were introduced concerned. torate Identifier 2006-SW-20-AD; Amendment By Mrs. GILLIBRAND (for herself, Mrs. 39-14747; AD 2006-17-51] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- and severally referred, as follows: BONO, Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. MCNERNEY, ceived March 15, 2007, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. By Mr. LAMBORN (for himself and Mr. Mrs. BOYDA of Kansas, Mr. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Transpor- BUYER): RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. BISHOP of Geor- tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 1863. A bill to direct the Secretary of gia, Mr. BARROW, Mr. PETERSON of f Veterans Affairs to conduct at two-year pilot Minnesota, Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of program to use a mobile processing unit to Tennessee, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON perform certain services of the Department Pennsylvania, Mr. ARCURI, Mr. BOS- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS of Veterans Affairs; to the Committee on WELL, Mr. SHULER, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Veterans’ Affairs. Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. WILSON of Ohio, By Mr. LAMBORN (for himself and Mr. committees were delivered to the Clerk Mr. CARNEY, Mr. MCNULTY, Ms. SHEA- BUYER): for printing and reference to the proper PORTER, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. MAHONEY of H.R. 1864. A bill to amend title 38, United Florida, Ms. HARMAN, Ms. CASTOR, calendar, as follows: States Code, to direct the Secretary of Vet- Mr. WALZ of Minnesota, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- erans Affairs to provide for the automated Mr. HARE, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. CROWLEY, sources. H.R. 886. A bill to enhance eco- processing of veterans disability compensa- Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. DONNELLY, Mr. system protection and the range of outdoor tion claims; to the Committee on Veterans’ YARMUTH, Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. HIRONO, opportunities protected by statute in the Affairs. Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. COURTNEY, and Skykomish River valley of the State of By Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia (for Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia): Washington by designating certain lower- himself, Mr. TURNER, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. H.R. 1871. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- elevation Federal lands as wilderness, and MORAN of Virginia, and Mr. BILBRAY): enue Code of 1986 to increase, expand the for other purposes (Rept. 110–89). Referred to H.R. 1865. A bill to amend title 31, United availability of, and repeal the sunset with re- the Committee of the Whole House on the States Code, to allow certain local tax debt spect to, the dependent care tax credit; to State of the Union. to be collected through the reduction of Fed- the Committee on Ways and Means. Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- eral tax refunds; to the Committee on Over- By Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia: sources. H.R. 309. A bill to direct the Sec- sight and Government Reform, and in addi- H.R. 1872. A bill to amend title 18, United retary of the Interior to establish a dem- tion to the Committee on Ways and Means, States Code, to give investigators and pros- onstration program to facilitate landscape for a period to be subsequently determined ecutors the tools they need to combat public restoration programs within certain units of by the Speaker, in each case for consider- corruption; to the Committee on the Judici- the National Park System established by law ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- ary. to preserve and interpret resources associ- risdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. BRALEY of Iowa (for himself, ated with American history, and for other By Mr. CUELLAR (for himself and Mr. Mr. CHABOT, and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ): purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 110–90). AKIN): H.R. 1873. A bill to reauthorize the pro- Referred to the Committee of the Whole H.R. 1866. A bill to amend title XVIII of the grams and activities of the Small Business House on the State of the Union. Social Security Act to provide payment Administration relating to procurement, and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L17AP7.000 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3474 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007

for other purposes; to the Committee on on Agriculture, for a period to be subse- THA, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Ms. Small Business. quently determined by the Speaker, in each KILPATRICK, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New By Mr. ANDREWS: case for consideration of such provisions as York, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. H.R. 1874. A bill to amend chapter 44 of fall within the jurisdiction of the committee MILLER of Florida, and Mr. LAHOOD): title 18, United States Code, to require concerned. H.R. 1890. A bill to ensure that the incar- microstamping of all firearms manufactured By Mr. FOSSELLA: ceration of inmates is not provided by pri- in or imported into the United States, and H.R. 1883. A bill to codify procedures re- vate contractors or vendors and that persons ballistics testing of all firearms in the cus- garding naturalization ceremonies conducted charged with or convicted of an offense tody of the Federal Government; to the Com- by the Secretary of Homeland Security; to against the United States shall be housed in mittee on the Judiciary. the Committee on the Judiciary. facilities managed and maintained by Fed- By Mr. BOREN (for himself and Mr. By Mr. GORDON (for himself and Mr. eral, State, or local governments; to the SULLIVAN): PITTS): Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 1875. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- H.R. 1884. A bill to amend the Public By Mr. KENNEDY (for himself, Mr. enue Code of 1986 to permanently extend the Health Service Act to provide for the partici- THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. Indian employment credit and the deprecia- pation of optometrists in the National LANGEVIN, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, tion rules for property used predominantly Health Service Corps scholarship and loan Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. within an Indian reservation; to the Com- repayment programs, and for other purposes; ZOE LOFGREN of California, Mr. GON- mittee on Ways and Means. to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. ZALEZ, and Mr. COHEN): By Mr. ANDREWS (for himself and Mr. By Mr. GRIJALVA (for himself and Ms. H.R. 1891. A bill to promote the develop- LEWIS of Kentucky): GIFFORDS): ment of disaster plans that will protect the H.R. 1876. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- H.R. 1885. A bill to establish the Santa maximum number of citizens; to foster pub- enue Code of 1986 to exclude from gross in- Cruz Valley National Heritage Area in the lic trust, confidence, and cooperation with come of individual taxpayers discharges of State of Arizona, and for other purposes; to these plans; and to encourage greater public indebtedness attributable to certain forgiven the Committee on Natural Resources. participation in homeland security by allow- residential mortgage obligations; to the By Mr. HINCHEY: ing the American people to have a direct and H.R. 1886. A bill to prevent public financing Committee on Ways and Means. influential role in developing and modifying of oil or gas field development projects, sur- By Mr. BECERRA (for himself, Mr. community disaster preparedness, response, veying or extraction activities, processing GRIJALVA, Mr. EHLERS, and Mr. recovery, and mitigation plans in collabora- facilities, pipelines, or terminals, or other SHIMKUS): tion with government officials, emergency oil and gas production or distribution oper- H.R. 1877. A bill to authorize the cancella- managers, health authorities, and profes- ations or facilities, and for other purposes; tion of Perkins Loans for students who per- sional responders, and for other purposes; to to the Committee on Financial Services, and form public service as librarians in low-in- the Committee on Transportation and Infra- in addition to the Committee on Foreign Af- come schools and public libraries; to the structure, and in addition to the Committees fairs, for a period to be subsequently deter- Committee on Education and Labor. on Energy and Commerce, and Homeland Se- mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- By Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida curity, for a period to be subsequently deter- sideration of such provisions as fall within (for herself, Mr. CONYERS, and Mr. mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. ETHERIDGE): sideration of such provisions as fall within H.R. 1878. A bill to amend title XIX of the By Mr. HINCHEY: the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. Social Security Act to permit States, at H.R. 1887. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. LIPINSKI (for himself, Mr. their option, to require certain individuals enue Code of 1986 to extend the financing for MCINTYRE, Mr. SHULER, Mr. ELLS- to present satisfactory documentary evi- Superfund for purposes of cleanup activities WORTH, Mr. MELANCON, and Mr. DON- dence of proof of citizenship or nationality with respect to those Superfund sites for NELLY): for purposes of eligibility for Medicaid, and which removal and remedial action is esti- H.R. 1892. A bill to direct the Secretary of for other purposes; to the Committee on En- mated to cost more than $50 million, and for Health and Human Services to provide for ergy and Commerce. other purposes; to the Committee on Ways the establishment and maintenance of a Na- By Mr. CARTER: and Means, and in addition to the Commit- H.R. 1879. A bill to direct the Secretary of tees on Energy and Commerce, and Trans- tional Amniotic and Placental Stem Cell Veterans Affairs to convey the Department portation and Infrastructure, for a period to Bank; to the Committee on Energy and Com- of Veterans Affairs Medical Center located in be subsequently determined by the Speaker, merce. Marlin, Texas, to the State of Texas; to the in each case for consideration of such provi- By Mrs. LOWEY: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the H.R. 1893. A bill to amend the Federal Haz- By Ms. DELAURO (for herself, Ms. committee concerned. ardous Substances Act to require the inclu- JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. TOWNS, By Mr. HOEKSTRA (for himself, Mr. sion of warning labels on Internet and cata- Mr. MCDERMOTT, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. BAIRD, Mr. WALSH of New York, Mr. logue advertising of certain toys and games; SHAYS, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. HONDA, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. AKIN, Ms. to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. LARSON of Connecticut, and Mr. MUR- JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. GRIJALVA, By Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York: PHY of Connecticut): Mr. KNOLLENBERG, Mr. CLAY, Mr. H.R. 1894. A bill to provide for the con- H.R. 1880. A bill to amend the National and MOORE of Kansas, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. struction and renovation of child care facili- Community Service Act of 1990 to establish a ROGERS of Michigan, Mr. EHLERS, Mr. ties, and for other purposes; to the Com- Summer of Service State grant program, a GARY G. MILLER of California, Mr. mittee on Financial Services. Summer of Service national direct grant MCHUGH, Mr. UPTON, Mr. SOUDER, Mr. By Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York: program, and related national activities, and GILLMOR, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. DAVIS H.R. 1895. A bill to improve the tracking of for other purposes; to the Committee on of Kentucky, Mr. GERLACH, Mr. stolen firearms and firearms used in a crime, Education and Labor. DOYLE, Mr. KELLER, Mr. CALVERT, to allow more frequent inspections of gun By Mr. DOYLE (for himself, Mr. SMITH Mrs. MUSGRAVE, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. dealers to ensure compliance with Federal of New Jersey, Mr. ENGEL, and Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, Mr. GON- gun law, to enhance the penalties for gun PICKERING): ZALEZ, and Mr. LARSON of Con- trafficking, and for other purposes; to the H.R. 1881. A bill to improve support and necticut): Committee on the Judiciary. services for individuals with autism and H.R. 1888. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota (for their families; to the Committee on Energy enue Code of 1986 to provide a shorter recov- herself, Mr. OBERSTAR, and Mr. and Commerce. ery period for the depreciation of certain ELLISON): By Mr. EVERETT (for himself, Mr. systems installed in nonresidential build- H.R. 1896. A bill to amend the Individuals BONNER, Mr. ROGERS of Alabama, Mr. ings; to the Committee on Ways and Means. with Disabilities Education Act to fully fund CRAMER, and Mr. BACHUS): By Mr. HOLDEN (for himself, Mr. 40 percent of the average per pupil expendi- H.R. 1882. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- LOBIONDO, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. MUR- ture for programs under part B of that Act; enue Code of 1986 to authorize agricultural THA, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Ms. to the Committee on Education and Labor. producers to establish and contribute to tax- KILPATRICK, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New By Mr. PAUL: exempt farm risk management accounts in York, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. H.R. 1897. A bill to protect the second lieu of obtaining federally subsidized crop in- MILLER of Florida, and Mr. LAHOOD): amendment rights of individuals to carry surance or noninsured crop assistance, to H.R. 1889. A bill to require prisons and firearms in units of the National Park Sys- provide for contributions to such accounts other correctional facilities holding Federal tem, and for other purposes; to the Com- by the Secretary of Agriculture, to specify prisoners under a contract with the Federal mittee on Natural Resources. the situations in which amounts may be paid Government to make the same information By Mr. PAUL: to producers from such accounts, and to available to the public that Federal prisons H.R. 1898. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- limit the total amount of such distributions and correctional facilities are required to do enue Code of 1986 to allow individuals a cred- to a producer during a taxable year, and for by law; to the Committee on the Judiciary. it against income tax for medical expenses other purposes; to the Committee on Ways By Mr. HOLDEN (for himself, Mr. for dependents; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee LOBIONDO, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. MUR- and Means.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L17AP7.100 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3475

By Mr. PAUL: By Mr. HASTINGS of Florida (for him- MARCHANT, Mr. CLAY, Mr. CUMMINGS, H.R. 1899. A bill to amend part A of title self, Ms. KAPTUR, and Mr. LEVIN): Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. WAX- XVIII of the Social Security Act to clarify H. Con. Res. 115. Concurrent resolution MAN, Mr. WYNN, Mr. REYES, Mr. that facilities designated as critical access urging all sides to the current political crisis THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. hospitals may use beds certified for such hos- in Ukraine to act responsibly and use dia- FATTAH, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. pitals for assisted living; to the Committee logue to resolve the crisis and ensure a free SARBANES, Mr. HOYER, Mr. ORTIZ, Mr. on Ways and Means. and transparent democratic system in BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mrs. By Mr. RAHALL: Ukraine based on the rule of law; to the MALONEY of New York, Mr. SMITH of H.R. 1900. A bill to amend title 38, United Committee on Foreign Affairs. Washington, Mr. HOLT, Ms. NORTON, States Code, to extend eligibility for pension By Mr. MCDERMOTT (for himself and Mr. MCHUGH, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. VAN benefits under laws administered by the Sec- Mr. WELLER): HOLLEN, Mr. CARNEY, Mr. RANGEL, retary of Veterans Affairs to veterans who H. Res. 299. A resolution expressing the and Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- received an expeditionary medal during a pe- sense of the House of Representatives that fornia): riod of military service other than a period Congress should increase public awareness of H. Res. 307. A resolution expressing the of war; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- child abuse and neglect and should continue sense of the House of Representatives that fairs. to work with the States to reduce the inci- public servants should be commended for By Mr. RAHALL: dence of child abuse and neglect through their dedication and continued service to the H.R. 1901. A bill to amend title 38, United such programs as the Child Welfare Services Nation during Public Service Recognition States Code, to extend eligibility for pension and Promoting Safe and Stable Families pro- Week, May 7 through 13, 2007; to the Com- benefits under laws administered by the Sec- grams; to the Committee on Ways and mittee on Oversight and Government Re- retary of Veterans Affairs to veterans who Means. form. served during certain periods of time in spec- By Mr. PALLONE (for himself, Ms. By Mr. DAVIS of Illinois: ified locations; to the Committee on Vet- KILPATRICK, Mr. SIRES, Mr. HOLT, Mr. H. Res. 308. A resolution remembering and erans’ Affairs. PASCRELL, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. ROTHMAN, honoring the life and achievements of Jackie By Mr. RUSH (for himself, Mr. WAX- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey, Mr. FER- Robinson on the 60th anniversary of inte- MAN, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, GUSON, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. SAXTON, grated Major League Baseball; to the Com- Mr. DOYLE, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mr. ANDREWS, mittee on Oversight and Government Re- DINGELL): Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Ms. WAT- form. H.R. 1902. A bill to prohibit brand name SON, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Ms. LEE, Mr. By Mr. ENGEL (for himself and Mr. drug companies from compensating generic HINCHEY, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Ms. KIRK): drug companies to delay the entry of a ge- CARSON, Mr. COHEN, Mrs. JONES of H. Res. 309. A resolution expressing the neric drug into the market, and for other Ohio, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, Mr. sense of the House of Representatives that purposes; to the Committee on Energy and GEORGE MILLER of California, Mrs. the United States should support independ- Commerce, and in addition to the Committee CAPPS, Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Flor- ence for Kosovo; to the Committee on For- on the Judiciary, for a period to be subse- ida, Ms. SOLIS, Mr. HOYER, Mr. eign Affairs. quently determined by the Speaker, in each TOWNS, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. WYNN, Ms. By Mr. HASTINGS of Florida (for him- case for consideration of such provisions as EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, and self, Mr. ROGERS of Michigan, Mr. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Ms. SCHAKOWSKY): LANTOS, Mr. REYES, Mr. HOEKSTRA, concerned. H. Res. 300. A resolution commending the Ms. ESHOO, Mr. ISSA, Ms. SLAUGHTER, By Mr. TOWNS: achievements of the Rutgers University Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. H.R. 1903. A bill to amend the Public women’s basketball team and applauding the FILNER, Mr. KENNEDY, Ms. SOLIS, Ms. Health Service Act and Employee Retire- character and integrity of their student-ath- KILPATRICK, Ms. LEE, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. ment Income Security Act of 1974 to require letes; to the Committee on Education and BECERRA, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, Mr. SMITH that group and individual health insurance Labor. of Washington, Mr. WEXLER, Ms. coverage and group health plans provide cov- By Mrs. GILLIBRAND: WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. TIERNEY, erage for reconstructive prosthetic urology H. Res. 303. A resolution expressing the and Mr. BOYD of Florida): surgery if they provide coverage for prostate sense of the House of Representatives that a H. Res. 310. A resolution condemning in the cancer treatment; to the Committee on En- day ought to be established to bring aware- strongest terms the terrorist attacks that ergy and Commerce, and in addition to the ness to the issue of missing persons; to the occurred in Casablanca, Morocco, on April 10 Committee on Education and Labor, for a pe- Committee on Oversight and Government and 14, 2007, and in Algiers, Algeria, on April riod to be subsequently determined by the Reform. 11, 2007; to the Committee on Foreign Af- Speaker, in each case for consideration of By Mr. BECERRA: fairs. such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- H. Res. 304. A resolution electing a Member By Mr. LATHAM: tion of the committee concerned. to a certain standing committee of the H. Res. 311. A resolution congratulating By Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico (for House of Representatives; considered and Iowa State University for its efforts to refur- herself and Mr. UDALL of New Mex- agreed to. bish and rededicate Morrill Hall; to the Com- ico): By Mrs. DRAKE (for herself, Mr. SMITH mittee on Education and Labor. H.R. 1904. A bill to provide assistance to of Washington, Mr. THORNBERRY, Mr. By Mr. LOEBSACK (for himself, Mr. the State of New Mexico for the development HAYES, Mr. MCINTYRE, Mr. SKELTON, BOSWELL, Mr. LATHAM, Mr. BRALEY of of comprehensive State water plans, and for Mr. HUNTER, Ms. CASTOR, Mr. Iowa, and Mr. KING of Iowa): other purposes; to the Committee on Natural CONAWAY, Mr. SAXTON, Mr. KLINE of H. Res. 312. A resolution congratulating Resources. Minnesota, Mr. COOPER, Mr. ELLS- Zach Johnson on his victory in the 2007 Mas- By Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York (for WORTH, Mr. ORTIZ, Mr. TURNER, Mr. ters golf tournament; to the Committee on herself, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. GEORGE MIL- MILLER of Florida, Mr. CALVERT, Mr. Oversight and Government Reform. LER of California, Mr. MICHAUD, and MARSHALL, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Mr. AN- By Mr. ORTIZ (for himself, Mr. TOM Mr. ELLISON): DREWS, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, and Mr. DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. BRADY of H. Con. Res. 112. Concurrent resolution UDALL of Colorado): Pennsylvania, Mr. TAYLOR, Mrs. supporting the goals and ideas of a National H. Res. 305. A resolution honoring the BOYDA of Kansas, Ms. LORETTA Child Care Worthy Wage Day; to the Com- 53,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and SANCHEZ of California, Mr. HARE, Ms. mittee on Education and Labor. civilians that comprise the Nation’s special CLARKE, Mr. WOLF, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, By Mr. CARNEY (for himself, Mr. operations forces community; to the Com- Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. SHAYS, Ms. JACK- JONES of North Carolina, Mr. mittee on Armed Services. SON-LEE of Texas, Mr. BOSWELL, Ms. HOLDEN, Mr. REYES, Mr. MELANCON, By Mr. BOUCHER (for himself, Mr. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. Mr. MEEHAN, and Mr. DOYLE): WOLF, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland, Mr. H. Con. Res. 113. Concurrent resolution rec- GOODLATTE, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, HINOJOSA, Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. ognizing the important contributions and Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, Mr. HAYES, Mr. tremendous potential of military ground ro- GOODE, Mr. CANTOR, Mrs. JO ANN ABERCROMBIE, Mr. UDALL of Colorado, botics and expressing the support of the Con- DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. FORBES, and Mr. LAMPSON, Mr. REYES, Mr. gress for continued funding and development Mrs. DRAKE): MCGOVERN, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, and of Unmanned Ground Vehicles; to the Com- H. Res. 306. A resolution offering heartfelt Mr. MCNERNEY): mittee on Armed Services. condolences to the victims and their families H. Res. 313. A resolution recognizing and By Mr. CLEAVER (for himself, Mr. regarding the horrific violence at Virginia commending all of the volunteers and sup- RANGEL, and Mr. BLUNT): Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, and to the stu- porters of Our Military Kids, Inc., for their H. Con. Res. 114. Concurrent resolution en- dents, faculty, administration and staff and efforts in awarding grants to over 1,100 couraging recognition of February 13th of their families who have been deeply affected school-aged children of deployed and se- each year for the founding for the Negro by the tragic events that occurred there; to verely injured National Guard and Reserve Leagues in Kansas City, Missouri; to the the Committee on Education and Labor. personnel in 49 states and the District of Co- Committee on Oversight and Government By Mr. DAVIS of Illinois (for himself, lumbia; to the Committee on Armed Serv- Reform. Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. ices.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L17AP7.100 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3476 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007

By Mr. WEXLER (for himself, Mr. HODES, Mr. JONES of North Carolina, Mr. H.R. 980: Mr. WEXLER, Mr. COOPER, Mr. FEENEY, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. COBLE, Mr. HAYES, Mr. WU, Mr. CANNON, Mr. KILDEE, Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. KIRK, Mr. MILLER of North SCHIFF, Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. SMITH of TAYLOR, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mrs. MCCAR- Carolina, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. RYAN of Texas, Mr. SMITH of Washington, THY of New York. Ohio, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. MEEK of Florida, Mr. Mrs. BONO, Ms. WATSON, and Mr. H.R. 592: Mr. HIGGINS and Mr. CUMMINGS. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee, Mr. RAHALL, Mrs. ISSA): H.R. 612: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. DAVIS of California, Mr. POMEROY, Ms. SOLIS, H. Res. 314. A resolution supporting the H.R. 618: Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. GORDON, Mr. MEEKS of New York, Mr. goals of World Intellectual Property Day, H.R. 628: Mr. FORBES, Mr. GOODLATTE, and BISHOP of New York, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. and for other purposes; to the Committee on Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Tennessee. PETRI, and Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. the Judiciary. H.R. 633: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. H.R. 989: Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Tennessee, H.R. 657: Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. JINDAL, and Mr. SESSIONS. f H.R. 667: Mr. LANTOS and Mr. WYNN. H.R. 997: Mr. REGULA, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 676: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. KILDEE, and INGLIS of South Carolina, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. GRAVES, Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. LINCOLN Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 690: Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Flor- DAVIS of Tennessee, and Mr. SOUDER. were added to public bills and resolu- ida, Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Mr. ROSS, H.R. 1017: Mrs. CAPPS and Ms. LORETTA tions as follows: Mr. JINDAL, and Mrs. CAPPS. SANCHEZ of California. H.R. 695: Mr. BECERRA, Mr. LARSON of Con- H.R. 19: Mr. DEAL of Georgia. H.R. 1023: Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. necticut, Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. H.R. 1026: Mr. PAYNE, Mr. BOUSTANY, Mr. H.R. 23: Ms. CARSON, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. WEXLER, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. JOHNSON of BONNER, Mr. PAUL, Mr. BERRY, Mr. BOSWELL, OBERSTAR, Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. Georgia, Mr. OLVER, Mr. CONAWAY, Mr. Mr. GORDON, and Mr. WALZ of Minnesota. COSTELLO, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. SALAZAR, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. HOYER, Ms. DELAURO, Ms. H.R. 1028: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota and LARSEN of Washington, Mr. MCCOTTER, Ms. LEE, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. WYNN, Mrs. JONES of Mr. HINOJOSA. SUTTON, Mr. MARCHANT, and Ms. DELAURO. Ohio, and Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of H.R. 1031: Mr. FILNER. H.R. 25: Mr. BILBRAY. Texas. H.R. 1032: Mr. ALLEN. H.R. 45: Mr. LANTOS. H.R. 711: Mr. BAKER. H.R. 1056: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 63: Mr. WHITFIELD and Mr. CHABOT. H.R. 718: Mr. UDALL of Colorado, Mr. MIL- H.R. 1057: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 67: Mr. SOUDER. LER of North Carolina, Mr. OBERSTAR, Mr. H.R. 1058: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 91: Mr. JONES of North Carolina and JINDAL, Mrs. TAUSCHER, Mr. POE, and Mr. H.R. 1061: Mr. SHAYS. Mr. GORDON. WAMP. H.R. 1064: Mr. MILLER of North Carolina, H.R. 154: Mr. ENGEL. H.R. 728: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota, Mr. Mr. OLVER, Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- H.R. 156: Mr. RAHALL, Mr. BRADY of Penn- CUMMINGS, and Mr. Carney. fornia, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. sylvania, and Mr. CARNEY. H.R. 729: Mr. WAXMAN. GONZALEZ, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. JOHNSON of Geor- H.R. 174: Mr. COHEN and Mr. ABERCROMBIE. H.R. 734: Mr. COLE of Oklahoma, Mr. gia, Mr. GONZALEZ, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. JOHNSON H.R. 176: Mr. GRIJALVA, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, SHAYS, and Mr. ORTIZ. of Georgia, Mr. EMANUEL, Mr. DOYLE, Ms. Mr. RANGEL, Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. H.R. 736: Mrs. CAPITO. BEAN, Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. LANTOS, Mr. CONYERS, Ms. H.R. 741: Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. SARBANES, RUPPERSBERGER, Ms. CARSON, Mr. HIGGINS, CORRINE BROWN of Florida, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. NADLER, Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. Mrs. CAPPS, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. PETRI, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Mr. BISHOP GORDON of Tennessee, Mr. WALZ of Min- DELAHUNT, and Mr. WATT. of New York, and Mr. KUHL of New York. nesota, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. ROTHMAN, Mr. LAN- H.R. 178: Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. COHEN, Mr. H.R. 743: Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. TOS, and Mr. HALL of New York. WAXMAN, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. H.R. 748: Mr. LEVIN, Mr. RAMSTAD, Mr. H.R. 1070: Mr. COHEN and Ms. JACKSON-LEE BUTTERFIELD, Mr. CONYERS, and Ms. CARSON. BERRY, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, of Texas. H.R. 180: Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts, Mr. Mr. SNYDER, Mr. WHITFIELD, and Mr. MAR- H.R. 1072: Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California ENGEL, Mr. NADLER, Mr. LAHOOD, and Ms. SHALL. and Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. H.R. 758: Mr. WAMP, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. H.R. 1073: Mr. LOBIONDO, Ms. CORRINE H.R. 192: Mr. SHAYS. COHEN, and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. BROWN of Florida, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. HIG- H.R. 219: Mr. TANCREDO and Mr. GERLACH. H.R. 760: Mr. LYNCH, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. HIN- GINS, Ms. SUTTON, and Mr. ROTHMAN. H.R. 221: Mr. SALI. CHEY, Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. WU, Mrs. H.R. 1076: Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. H.R. 241: Mr. SESSIONS and Mr. WAMP. MCCARTHY of New York, Mr. STARK, Mrs. MANZULLO, and Mrs. GILLIBRAND. H.R. 255: Mr. ISSA. MALONEY of New York, Mr. BRADY of Penn- H.R. 1084: Mr. BERMAN. H.R. 278: Mr. MOORE of Kansas and Mr. sylvania, Mrs. CAPPS, and Mr. RUSH. H.R. 1092: Mr. FERGUSON, Mrs. TAUSCHER, DOGGETT. H.R. 769: Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Mr. FILNER, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. LANTOS, Ms. H.R. 281: Mr. WU, Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. H.R. 782: Mr. REYNOLDS. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mrs. ABERCROMBIE, Ms. CLARKE, Ms. BERKLEY, Ms. H.R. 784: Mr. CANTOR, Mr. DAVIS of Ken- MCCARTHY of New York, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. ´ LINDA T. SANCHEZ of California, and Ms. ZOE tucky, Mr. ROSS, Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia, PERLMUTTER, and Mr. HARE. LOFGREN of California. Mr. BOYD of Florida, Ms. KILPATRICK, and H.R. 1093: Mr. BERRY. H.R. 303: Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. H.R. 1094: Mr. JONES of North Carolina. H.R. 346: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. H.R. 806: Mr. RAHALL. H.R. 1095: Mr. TERRY. SHUSTER, and Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. H.R. 811: Mr. SAXTON, Ms. CARSON, Mr. H.R. 1098: Mr. CARNAHAN and Mr. ABER- H.R. 359: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota and SIRES, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Mr. HILL, CROMBIE. Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. BARROW, and Mr. SAR- H.R. 1102: Mr. TIBERI, Mr. HIGGINS, Ms. ZOE H.R. 367: Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. BANES. LOFGREN of California, and Mr. ENGLISH of H.R. 404: Mr. GOODLATTE. H.R. 821: Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Ms. Pennsylvania. H.R. 405: Mr. WAMP, Mr. ETHERIDGE, Mr. NORTON, and Mr. MEEKS of New York. H.R. 1103: Ms. DEGETTE, Mr. WAXMAN, Ms. HINOJOSA, and Ms. HIRONO. H.R. 823: Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. PAYNE, Mrs. CAPPS, and H.R. 406: Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. MORAN of MATSUI, Mr. INSLEE, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- Mr. BLUMENAUER. Virginia, Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. fornia, Mr. ELLISON, and Mr. WYNN. H.R. 1108: Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. LANTOS, Mr. CUMMINGS, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of H.R. 829: Mr. CARNEY. H.R. 1142: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. Texas, and Mr. KILDEE. H.R. 878: Mr. LEVIN. PORTER, Mr. BOREN, Mr. MILLER of North H.R. 418: Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York. H.R. 882: Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. JINDAL, and Carolina, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- H.R. 436: Mr. SMITH of Nebraska, Mr. Mr. HINCHEY. vania, and Mr. RAHALL. FOSSELLA, and Mr. PITTS. H.R. 891: Ms. ESHOO, Mr. KING of New York, H.R. 1157: Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. FRANKs of H.R. 443: Mrs. EMERSON. Mr. OLVER, Mr. ARCURI, Mrs. TAUSCHER, and Arizona, Mr. REYNOLDS, Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. H.R. 445: Mrs. EMERSON. Mr. ENGEL. UDALL of Colorado, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of H.R. 463: Mr. MCINTYRE. H.R. 897: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Pennsylvania, and Mr. FOSSELLA. H.R. 464: Mr. COHEN and Ms. MOORE of Wis- H.R. 916: Mr. ROTHMAN and Mr. MEEK of H.R. 1187: Mr. WAXMAN, Mrs. CAPPS, and consin. Florida. Ms. ESHOO. H.R. 468: Mr. HINOJOSA. H.R. 917: Mr. LATHAM. H.R. 1190: Mr. BOREN, Mrs. MALONEY of New H.R. 503: Mr. EMANUEL, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. H.R. 923: Mr. HINOJOSA and Mr. MCCOTTER. York, Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. MARSHALL, Mrs. CONYERS, Mrs. LOWEY, Ms. NORTON, and Mr. H.R. 943: Mr. MOORE of Kansas, Mr. MCCARTHY of New York, Ms. NORTON, Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. MAHONEY of Florida, and Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS BURTON of Indiana, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. H.R. 522: Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. of Tennessee. CLAY, and Mr. DOYLE. H.R. 526: Mr. RAHALL. H.R. 947: Ms. DELAURO. H.R. 1192: Mr. FILNER and Mr. GENE GREEN H.R. 549: Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. MCNERNEY, H.R. 962: Mr. WAXMAN. of Texas. Ms. SUTTON, and Mr. TIAHRT. H.R. 970: Mr. EHLERS and Mrs. BONO. H.R. 1194: Mr. MEEK of Florida, Mr. MAN- H.R. 583: Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. MCINTYRE, Mr. H.R. 971: Mr. REHBERG, Mr. ARCURI, and ZULLO, Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. JEFFERSON, CHANDLER, Mr. EMANUEL, Mr. ISSA, Mr. Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. FATTAH, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. BERRY, Ms.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L17AP7.100 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3477

BALDWIN, Mr. STUPAK, Mr. SAM JOHNSON of H.R. 1428: Mr. Cohen and Mr. KLINE of Min- H.R. 1655: Mr. CULBERSON, Ms. CARSON, Texas, and Mrs. JONES of Ohio. nesota. Mrs. EMERSON, and Ms. BALDWIN. H.R. 1197: Mr. GORDON and Mr. MILLER of H.R. 1440: Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. KING of New H.R. 1667: Ms. BERKLEY. Florida. York, and Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 1673: Mr. HAYES, Mr. TIM MURPHY of H.R. 1199: Ms. HIRONO. H.R. 1453: Mr. HIGGINS. Pennsylvania, Mr. MOORE of Kansas, Mr. AL H.R. 1216: Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, H.R. 1457: Mr. BURTON of Indiana. GREEN of Texas, Mr. BACHUS, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. SHAYS, Mr. GINGREY, Mr. HASTINGS of H.R. 1459: Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, and Mr. ARCURI. Florida, Mr. LANGEVIN, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. Ms. Clarke, Mr. NADLER, Mr. BOUCHER, Ms. H.R. 1678: Mr. KIRK. BISHOP of New York, Mr. REHBERG, Mr. GON- SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. HALL of New York, Mr. H.R. 1683: Mr. LEVIN. ZALEZ, Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Ms. WASSERMAN KILDEE, and Mr. LANGEVIN. H.R. 1688: Mr. CONYERS, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. SCHULTZ, Mr. MOORE of Kansas, and Mr. H.R. 1467: Mr. LATHAM. JACKSON of Illinois, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of REYES. H.R. 1474: Mr. RAHALL, Mr. BISHOP of New Texas, and Mr. SARBANES. H.R. 1222: Mr. HIGGINS and Mr. GINGREY. York, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. HOEKSTRA, and Mr. H.R. 1691: Mr. SERRANO, Mr. FARR, and Mr. H.R. 1225: Mr. BLUMENAUER and Mr. KIRK. CLAY. MICHAUD. H.R. 1488: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. PEARCE, H.R. 1692: Mr. PAYNE. H.R. 1228: Mr. ROGERS of Alabama and Mr. and Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. H.R. 1700: Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- RAHALL. H.R. 1494: Mr. RAMSTAD, Mrs. CAPPS, and vania. H.R. 1237: Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. Ms. ESHOO. H.R. 1705: Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mrs. MCCARTHY SHIMKUS, Mr. WELDON of Florida, and Mr. H.R. 1497: Mr. WYNN, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. of New York, Mr. MCNERNEY, Ms. SHEA-POR- BOUSTANY. GEORGE MILLER of California, Ms. WATSON, TER, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsylvania, H.R. 1239: Mr. PITTS, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. MAR- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, and Mr. HONDA. Mr. FATTAH, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. SHALL, and Ms. KAPTUR. H.R. 1498: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. SUTTON, and Mr. LANTOS. H.R. 1261: Mr. SOUDER, Mr. JOHNSON of Illi- MCCOTTER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. HINOJOSA, H.R. 1707: Ms. LEE, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. nois, and Mr. SALI. Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Mr. WYNN, Ms. SHAYS, Mr. MCNERNEY, and Mr. RYAN of H.R. 1264: Mr. HOLDEN, Mrs. EMERSON, and ZOE LOFGREN of California, and Ms. ESHOO. Ohio. Mr. MANZULLO. H.R. 1518: Mr. GOODE, Mr. WALZ of Min- H.R. 1709: Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. BLUMENAUER, H.R. 1280: Mr. WOLF. nesota, and Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. HOLT, Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, and H.R. 1281: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. H.R. 1524: Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. PAUL, Ms. Mr. MAHONEY of Florida. H.R. 1283: Mr. CLEAVER, Ms. SUTTON, and ZOE LOFGREN of California, Mr. PRICE of H.R. 1713: Mr. LANTOS, Ms. CORRINE BROWN Mr. CAPUANO. Georgia, Ms. LEE, Mr. Welch of Vermont, Mr. of Florida, Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, H.R. 1293: Mr. INGLIS of South Carolina, NADLER, and Mr. FILNER. Mr. JEFFERSON, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, Mr. Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. LARSON of H.R. 1527: Mr. HASTINGS of Washington. MORAN of Virginia, Ms. WOOLSEY, Mr. COHEN, Connecticut, Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland, Mr. H.R. 1532: Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. FILNER, and Mr. Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. HOLT, Ms. WATERS, Mr. WAMP, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. LATOURETTE, and RAHALL. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. KENNEDY. H.R. 1540: Ms. SCHWARTZ. Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. GEORGE H.R. 1304: Mr. ISSA. H.R. 1541: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota, and MILLER of California, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. H.R. 1308: Mrs. CAPPS. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. BLUMENAUER, Mr. CARNAHAN, and Mr. ALLEN. H.R. 1324: Mr. HAYES. H.R. 1551: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Ms. H.R. 1728: Ms. MATSUI, and Mr. ISRAEL. H.R. 1333: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. PATRICK H.R. 1729: Mr. GINGREY. H.R. 1343: Mr. MATHESON, Mr. SIRES, Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. H.R. 1730: Mr. RAHALL, Mr. PETRI, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. EMANUEL, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. KAGEN, Ms. SCHWARTZ, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. FER- GILCHREST, and Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, GUSON, and Mr. WYNN. H.R. 1732: Mr. JONES of North Carolina. Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. SMITH H.R. 1560: Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Mr. H.R. 1740: Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. COHEN, of New Jersey, Ms. BORDALLO, Ms. NORTON, THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms. LINDA T. Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, Mr. Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. MICHAUD, SA´ NCHEZ of California, and Mr. DELAHUNT. MCGOVERN, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. WYNN, Mr. Mr. EHLERS, Mr. LANGEVIN, Mr. MCNULTY, H.R. 1567: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, Ms. HOLT, and Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. GOODE, Mr. STARK, Mr. LEE, Mrs. CAPPS, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. CONYERS, H.R. 1747: Mr. DOGGETT, and Mrs. FILNER, Mr. CLAY, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. JOHNSON Mr. MCCOTTER, and Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. NAPOLITANO. of Georgia, and Mr. SARBANES. H.R. 1576: Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. WYNN, and Mr. H.R. 1755: Mr. CLAY. H.R. 1344: Mr. BARROW, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, MCNULTY. H.R. 1756: Mr. SHULER, Mr. ROSS, Mr. MIL- and Mr. SKELTON. H.R. 1582: Mr. UDALL of Colorado. LER of Florida, Mrs. EMERSON, and Mr. H.R. 1346: Mr. ROTHMAN, Mr. AL GREEN of H.R. 1586: Mr. BOREN, Mr. JONES of North GALLEGLY. Texas, Ms. WATSON, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Carolina, Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, and Mrs. H.R. 1760: Mr. WALZ of Minnesota. Mr. PALLONE, and Mr. RAHALL. CUBIN. H.R. 1773: Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. HOLDEN, H.R. 1355: Mr. MILLER of Florida. H.R. 1588: Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. WILSON of Ohio, Mr. LANTOS, Mr. ABER- H.R. 1363: Ms. BALDWIN, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, CROMBIE, Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN, Mr. and Mr. SIRES. and Mr. WESTMORELAND. CARNAHAN, and Mr. FERGUSON. H.R. 1368: Mr. CASTLE and Mr. PATRICK H.R. 1589: Mr. KLINE of Minnesota. H.R. 1783: Mr. SESTAK, Ms. SCHWARTZ, Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. H.R. 1600: Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. BISHOP of KENNEDY, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- H.R. 1377: Mr. WALZ of Minnesota, Mr. New York, Mr. CAMP of Michigan, Ms. fornia, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of ALTMIRE, Ms. SUTTON, and Mr. RANGEL. fornia, and Mr. MORAN of Virginia. California, Mrs. DAVIS of California, Ms. H.R. 1791: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. H.R. 1379: Mr. NADLER. ESHOO, and Mr. RAHALL. H.R. 1801: Mr. REICHERT, Ms. MCCOLLUM of H.R. 1380: Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. H.R. 1609: Mr. TOWNS, Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. Minnesota, Mr. WYNN, Mr. ENGLISH of Penn- H.R. 1385: Mr. WEXLER, Mrs. CAPPS, Ms. PAYNE, Mr. FILNER, Mr. CROWLEY, and Mr. sylvania, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. KENNEDY, KING of New York. MEEKS of New York, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. H.R. 1611: Mr. RODRIGUEZ, Mr. MEEK of PALLONE, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. HONDA, and Mr. WAXMAN. Florida, and Mr. BISHOP of New York. MCDERMOTT, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of H.R. 1386: Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota, H.R. 1616: Mr. WALZ of Minnesota, Mr. FIL- Texas, Mr. BERMAN, Mrs. MALONEY of New Mrs. CAPPS, and Mr. LATOURETTE. NER, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, and Mr. ALLEN. York, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. CAPUANO, and Mr. H.R. 1399: Mr. MURTHA, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. H.R. 1640: Mr. TIAHRT, Mr. KING of New BLUMENAUER. GORDON, Mr. GINGREY, Mr. BAKER, Mr. York, and Mr. SIMPSON. H.R. 1809: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. ROTHMAN, CARTER, Mr. RENZI, Mr. YOUNG of Alaska, H.R. 1645: Mr. FILNER, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, and Ms. NOR- Mr. CAMPbell of California, Mr. SAM JOHNSON Mr. DAVIS of Alabama, Mr. FRANK of Massa- TON. of Texas, Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. MCCAUL of chusetts, Mr. MEEK of Florida, and Mr. H.R. 1811: Mrs. MILLER of Michigan and Mr. Texas, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. PALLONE. BROWN of South Carolina. BROWN of South Carolina, Mrs. MUSGRAVE, H.R. 1646: Mr. LANTOS. H.R. 1813: Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. PETERSON of Pennsylvania, Mr. BARROW, H.R. 1647: Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky, Mr. H.R. 1819: Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Ms. Mr. BOSWELL, Mr. GOODE, Mr. HALL of Texas, SPACE, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. EMANUEL, JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Ms. MCCOLLUM of Mr. LAMBORN, and Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. SIMPSON, Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. FARR, Mr. Minnesota, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. MARSHALL, H.R. 1413: Mr. SCHIFF. ROYCE, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. PRICE of North Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, and Ms. H.R. 1420: Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Mr. Carolina, Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Mr. HIRONO. JACKSON of Illnois, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. WU, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. H.R. 1820: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. RUSH, Mr. FATTAH, Ms. WATERS, Ms. Sutton, ABERCROMBIE, Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of Cali- H.R. 1821: Ms. MATSUI, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. HARE, Mr. HINOJOSA, and fornia, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. RAHALL, Mr. UDALL of New Mexico, Mrs. MCCARTHY of Mr. MARKEY. LATHAM, and Mr. DAVIS of Alabama. New York, Mr. PERLMUTTER, and Mr. H.R. 1424: Mr. DENT and Mr. PATRICK MUR- H.R. 1653: Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. BLUMENAUER. PHY of Pennsylvania. WAXMAN, and Mr. CAPUANO. H.R. 1823: Mr. SMITH of Texas.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:21 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.053 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE H3478 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2007

H.R. 1829: Mr. WILSON of South Carolina H. Res. 287: Mr. ENGEL, Mr. PUTNAM, Mr. Page 4, line 16, strike ‘‘shall permit’’ and and Mr. BUCHANAN. ARCURI, Mr. WYNN, and Mr. BROWN of South insert ‘‘shall provide for’’. H.R. 1845: Mr. PRICE of Georgia and Mr. Carolina. Page 4, line 22, insert ‘‘the corporation or’’ MURTHA. H. Res. 292: Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. after ‘‘binding on’’. H.J. Res. 3: Mr. KENNEDY and Mr. ROTH- H. Res. 293: Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, Page 5, beginning on line 7, strike ‘‘or MAN. Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. SARBANES, other meeting of the shareholders’’ and in- H.J. Res. 12: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. PRICE of sert ‘‘meeting of the shareholders (or a spe- H.J. Res. 14: Mrs. CAPPS and Mr. Hare. North Carolina, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. SHAYS, Ms. cial meeting in lieu of the annual meeting)’’. H.J. Res. 40: Mr. BOYD of Florida. SUTTON, Mr. FATTAH, Ms. MCCOLLUM of Min- Page 6, line 3, strike ‘‘shall require’’ and H. Con. Res. 7: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. COURTNEY, nesota, Mr. HONDA, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. HOLT, insert ‘‘shall provide for’’. Mr. SCHIFF, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. Mr. CLAY, Mr. EHLERS, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. Page 6, line 6, insert ‘‘the corporation or’’ BERMAN, Mr. COSTA, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. HARE, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. after ‘‘binding on’’. REICHERT, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, Mr. ALLEN, and MEEKS of New York, and Mr. FORTUN˜ O. H.R. 1257 Mr. LAHOOD. f OFFERED BY: MR. GARRETT H. Con. Res. 21: Mr. STARK and Mrs. JO ANN AMENDMENT NO. 5: Page 4, line 13, strike DAVIS of Virginia. CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- H. Con. Res. 33: Mr. ANDREWS, Mr. ‘‘Any proxy’’ and insert ‘‘Subject to para- ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- graph (3), any proxy’’. YARMUTH, and Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. ITED TARIFF BENEFITS H. Con. Res. 48: Mr. CARDOZA, Mr. SES- Page 5, line 6, strike ‘‘In any proxy’’ and SIONS, Mr. PAUL, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, and Mr. Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or insert ‘‘Subject to paragraph (3), in any CAPUANO. statements on congressional earmarks, proxy’’. H. Con. Res. 49: Mr. HARE. Page 6, line 13, strike the close quotation limited tax benefits, or limited tariff marks and following period and after such H. Con. Res. 60: Mr. POE. benefits were submitted as follows: H. Con. Res. 81: Mr. WOLF and Ms. SUTTON. line insert the following: H. Con. Res. 108: Mr. LAHOOD. OFFERED BY: MR. CHABOT ‘‘(3) CONDITIONS TRIGGERING VOTE.—The H. Res. 37: Mr. HARE. The amendments to be offered by Rep- shareholder vote requirements of this sub- H. Res. 49: Mr. WYNN, Mr. ISSA, and Mr. resentative Chabot or a designee to H.R. 1361, section shall only apply if the executive BOYD of Florida. the RECOVER Act, do not contain any con- compensation (as disclosed pursuant to the H. Res. 55: Ms. CLARKE. gressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or Commission’s compensation disclosure rules) H. Res. 100: Mr. REYES, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. limited tariff benefits as defined in clause exceeds by 10 percent or more the average SCHIFF, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. THOMPSON of Cali- 9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of rule XXI. compensation for comparable positions— fornia, Mr. RAHALL, and Mr. SIRES. ‘‘(A) in companies within the issuer’s in- OFFERED BY: MR. HALL OF TEXAS H. Res. 101: Ms. LEE, Mr. HARE, Ms. dustry; and CORRINE BROWN of Florida, Ms. KILPATRICK, The amendment to be offered by Rep- ‘‘(B) among companies with comparable MS. MATSUI, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, and Ms. resentative Hall of Texas or a designee to total market capitalization, HOOLEY. H.R. 363, the Sowing the Seeds through Science and Engineering Research Act does as determined in accordance with regula- H. Res. 121: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. tions issued by the Commission.’’. WYNN, and Mr. WEINER. not contain any congressional earmarks, H. Res. 146: Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. limited tax benefits, or limited tariff bene- H.R. 1257 H. Res. 158: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. fits as defined in clause 9(d), 9(e), or 9(f) of OFFERED BY: MS. JACKSON-LEE OF TEXAS H. Res. 186: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. LANTOS, rule XXI. AMENDMENT NO. 6: Page 6, line 13, strike Mr. YOUNG of Florida, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- f the close quotation marks and following pe- fornia, Ms. HARMAN, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. BU- riod and after such line insert the following CHANAN, Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Flor- AMENDMENTS new paragraph: ida, Mr. ALLEN, Mr. ISRAEL, Mr. SERRANO, Under clause 8 of rule XVIII, pro- ‘‘(3) WEBSITE DISCLOSURE OF VOTE.—Not Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. ROTHMAN, Mr. posed amendments were submitted as later than 30 days after the votes provided NADLER, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, and Mr. follows: for in paragraphs (1) and (2)(B) are counted, KENNEDY. the issuer shall post the results of such vote H. Res. 194: Mr. NADLER, Ms. CLARKE, and H.R. 1257 in a prominent location on the issuer’s Inter- Mr. WYNN. OFFERED BY: MR. BACHUS net website (if the issuer maintains an Inter- H. Res. 208: Mr. ISSA. AMENDMENT NO. 1: Page 4, beginning on net website).’’. H. Res. 209: Mr. NADLER, Mr. HIGGINS, and line 8, strike ‘‘Section 16’’ and insert ‘‘Sec- H.R. 1257 Ms. CLARKE. tion 14’’, and on line 11, strike ‘‘(h)’’ and in- H. Res. 216: Mr. PLATTS and Mr. DAVIS of OFFERED BY: MR. MCHENRY sert ‘‘(i)’’. Kentucky. AMENDMENT NO. 7: Page 3, line 18, strike H. Res. 226: Mr. RANGEL. H.R. 1257 the close quotation marks and following pe- H. Res. 227: Mr. SERRANO, Mr. HOLT, Mrs. OFFERED BY: MR. CAMPBELL OF CALIFORNIA riod and after such line insert the following NAPOLITANO, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Mr. AMENDMENT NO. 2: Page 4, line 13, strike new paragraph: ABERCROMBIE, and Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. ‘‘Any proxy’’ and insert ‘‘Subject to para- ‘‘(3) DISCLOSURE OF VOTE TO PENSION FUND H. Res. 241, Mr. FILNER and Ms. WOOLSEY. graph (3), any proxy’’. BENEFICIARIES.—A shareholder who is casting H. Res. 243: Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, Page 5, line 6, strike ‘‘In any proxy’’ and the vote permitted under this subsection on Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida, Mr. insert ‘‘Subject to paragraph (3), in any behalf of the beneficiaries of a pension fund ENGEL, Mr. WAMP, Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. proxy’’. shall be required to disclose to such bene- FRELINGHUYSEN, Mrs. MYRICK, Mr. LEWIS of Page 6, line 13, strike the close quotation ficiaries whether such vote was cast to ap- Kentucky, Mr. BURGESS, and Mr. STUPAK. marks and following period and after such prove or disapprove the compensation.’’. H. Res. 257: Mr. CONYERS, Mr. WOLF, Ms. line insert the following: H.R. 1257 NORTON, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. ‘‘(3) MAJORITY-ELECTED BOARD EXEMP- OFFERED BY: MR. PRICE OF GEORGIA HAYS URTON AYNE S , Mr. B of Indiana, Mr. P , TION.—The shareholder vote requirements of AMENDMENT NO. 8: Page 6, line 13, strike Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. FRANK of this subsection shall not apply with respect Massachusetts, Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. RANGEL, the close quotation marks and following pe- to any issuer that requires the members of riod and after such line insert the following: Mr. GOODE, Mr. TANNER, Ms. BORDALLO, and its board of directors to be elected by a ma- ‘‘(3) CONDITIONAL IMPLEMENTATION.— Ms. SUTTON. jority of the votes cast in a shareholder elec- ‘‘(A) CONDITIONAL EFFECTIVE DATE.—Sub- H. Res. 258: Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. tion of such board.’’. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Penn- ject to subparagraph (C), this subsection sylvania, Mr. HINCHEY, and Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 1257 shall be effective with respect to any solici- H. Res. 259: Mr. HARE, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, OFFERED BY: MR. FRANK OF MASSACHUSETTS tation of a proxy, consent, or authorization and Mr. CUMMINGS. AMENDMENT NO. 3: Page 4, beginning on for an annual or other shareholder meeting H. Res. 272: Mr. LANTOS, Mr. WYNN, Mr. line 8, strike ‘‘Section 16’’ and insert ‘‘Sec- occurring on or after the date that is 90 days SCOTT of Georgia, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. JEFFER- tion 14’’, and on line 11, strike ‘‘(h)’’ and in- after the Commission transmits to Congress SON, and Ms. CARSON. sert ‘‘(i)’’. the report required under subparagraph (B). H. Res. 273: Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. ‘‘(B) STUDY ON RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION H.R. 1257 H. Res. 282: Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. LOBIONDO, OF EXECUTIVES.—The Commission shall con- Mr. ROTHMAN, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. LANTOS, OFFERED BY: MR. FRANK OF MASSACHUSETTS duct a study to determine the effect of the Mr. CARNAHAN, Mr. STARK, Mr. THOMPSON of AMENDMENT NO. 4: Page 4, line 13, strike separate vote requirements under this sub- Mississippi, Ms. WATSON, Mr. SALAZAR, Mr. ‘‘IN GENERAL’’ and insert ‘‘ANNUAL VOTE’’. section on the ability of issuers to recruit MCDERMOTT, Mr. COHEN, Mr. BERMAN, and Page 4, beginning on line 14, strike ‘‘or and retain executives, and not later than 90 Mr. FILNER. other meeting of the shareholders’’ and in- days after the date of enactment of this Act, H. Res. 285: Mr. GERLACH, Ms. GINNY sert ‘‘meeting of the shareholders (or a spe- shall transmit to Congress a report con- BROWN-WAITE of Florida, and Mr. MCCOTTER. cial meeting in lieu of the annual meeting)’’. taining the findings of such study.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.061 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3479

‘‘(C) DETERMINATION BY COMMISSION.—This under this subsection shall not be eligible sert ‘‘meeting of the shareholders (or a spe- subsection shall not take effect if the Com- under the Commission’s shareholder proposal cial meeting in lieu of the annual meeting)’’. mission determines, pursuant to the study regulation (17 CFR 240.14a–8) to make pro- Page 5, beginning on line 7, strike ‘‘or required under subparagraph (B), that the re- posals for inclusion in any proxy materials other meeting of the shareholders’’ and in- quirements of this subsection would signifi- related to compensation.’’. sert ‘‘meeting of the shareholders (or a spe- cantly hinder issuers’ recruitment and reten- H.R. 1257 cial meeting in lieu of the annual meeting)’’. tion of executives.’’. OFFERED BY: MR. PUTNAM H.R. 1257 AMENDMENT NO. 11: Page 4, line 13, strike H.R. 1257 OFFERED BY: MR. PRICE OF GEORGIA ‘‘Any proxy’’ and insert ‘‘Subject to para- OFFERED BY: MR. SESSIONS AMENDMENT NO. 9: Strike all after the en- graph (3), any proxy’’. acting clause and insert the following: Page 5, line 6, strike ‘‘In any proxy’’ and AMENDMENT NO. 13: Page 6, line 13, strike SEC. 1. DISCLOSURE OF EXECUTIVE COMPENSA- insert ‘‘Subject to paragraph (3), in any the close quotation marks and following pe- TION. proxy’’. riod and after such line insert the following Congress finds and declares that the share- Page 6, line 13, strike the close quotation new paragraph: marks and following period and after such holder disclosures relating to executive com- ‘‘(3) DISCLOSURE OF ACTIVITIES TO INFLU- line insert the following: pensation required by the rules issued by the ENCE VOTE.—Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) Securities and Exchange Commission on ‘‘(3) DEFERRED COMPENSATION EXEMPTION.— or (2)(B), a shareholder’s vote shall not be September 8, 2006 (71 Fed. Reg. 53158) provide The shareholder vote requirements of this counted under such paragraphs if the share- an adequate and complete mechanism for subsection shall not apply to an issuer if the holder has spent, directly or indirectly, more shareholder approval of such compensation. compensation of executives as disclosed pur- than a de minimis amount of money (as de- H.R. 1257 suant to the Commission’s compensation dis- termined by the Commission) on activities closure rule indicates that the issuer pro- OFFERED BY: MR. PRICE OF GEORGIA to influence a vote of other shareholders, un- vides the majority of the issuer’s executive AMENDMENT NO. 10: Page 4, line 25, strike less such shareholder discloses to the Com- compensation in the form of non-qualified ‘‘, nor shall such vote’’ and all that follows mission, in accordance with rules prescribed deferred compensation.’’. through page 5, line 3, and insert a period. by the Commission— Page 6, line 10, strike ‘‘, nor shall such H.R. 1257 ‘‘(A) the identity of all persons or entities vote’’ and all that follows through page 6, OFFERED BY: MR. ROSKAM engaged in such a campaign; line 13, and insert a period, and after such AMENDMENT NO. 12: Page 4, line 13, strike ‘‘(B) the activities engaged in to influence line insert the following: ‘‘IN GENERAL’’ and insert ‘‘ANNUAL VOTE’’. the vote; and ‘‘(3) LIMITATION ON SHAREHOLDER PRO- Page 4, beginning on line 14, strike ‘‘or ‘‘(C) the amount of money expended on POSALS.—A shareholder permitted to vote other meeting of the shareholders’’ and in- such a campaign.’’.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:15 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.068 H17APPT1 ccoleman on PRODPC74 with HOUSE E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 110 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 153 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2007 No. 61 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was U.S. SENATE, We will have a cloture vote on an- called to order by the Honorable JON PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, other issue that it appears at this time TESTER, a Senator from the State of Washington, DC, April 17, 2007. the Republicans are going to block; To the Senate: that is, the ability for Medicare to ne- Montana. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby gotiate for lower priced prescription PRAYER appoint the Honorable JON TESTER, a Sen- drugs. The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- ator from the State of Montana, to perform We are going to continue to move fered the following prayer: the duties of the Chair. forward on our desire to allow the in- Let us pray. ROBERT C. BYRD, telligence community, the 16 agencies President pro tempore. Eternal Lord God, as we continue to that work for the Federal Government, working in espionage and other such mourn the carnage which happened at Mr. TESTER thereupon assumed the important issues, to allow them to Virginia Tech and the flags fly half- chair as Acting President pro tempore. have legislation that brings us up to mast, give us the determination to f date. For the last 2 years, there has bring good from evil and sanity from RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY been no legislation in that regard be- insanity. May this horrific shooting LEADER cause the Republicans did not move prompt us to humble ourselves and The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- forward. We are going to continue to pray and seek Your face and turn from pore. The majority leader is recog- try to move forward even though the wickedness. Permit our pain and an- nized. Vice President does not want this leg- guish to force us to examine what con- f islation. tributions we may be making in ro- We also are going to continue to manticizing a culture of violence. May SCHEDULE speak for the American people in al- the shooting in Blacksburg, VA, keep Mr. REID. Mr. President, this morn- lowing Medicare—one of the most imus alert to the battle we fight against ing the Senate will be in a period of portant programs ever developed by principalities, powers, and evil in our morning business for 60 minutes, with this country has been Medicare. I can world. Senators permitted to speak for up to remember my first elected job on the Use our Senators today as agents of 10 minutes each. The first half of morn- board of trustees of then Southern Ne- reconciliation as they remember that ing business is controlled by the Re- vada Memorial Hospital, the largest in everything, You are working for the publican leader or his designee or des- hospital district in the State of Nevada good of those who love You. Hear our ignees and the last portion controlled at the time. When I took that job, 45 prayer, forgive our sins, and heal our by the majority. Following morning percent of those people who were senior land. We pray in Your merciful Name. business, the Senate will resume con- citizens who came to that hospital had Amen. sideration of S. 372, the Intelligence au- no insurance, and children, spouses, thorization bill. f friends, and neighbors had to agree to Yesterday, it was unfortunate that pay their hospital bill or they would PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE the Senate did not invoke cloture on not be taken care of. the intelligence legislation. However, I The situation now is that virtually The Honorable JON TESTER led the did enter a motion to reconsider the every senior citizen, as a result of Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: failed cloture vote. We will have that Medicare having passed—that passed I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the vote again at some time. during my term of office on the board United States of America, and to the Repub- Also today, at 12:30 p.m., the Senate of trustees—virtually every senior cit- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, will recess for the party conferences. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. izen now has the ability to be taken We have no votes scheduled today be- care of, except Medicare cannot now f cause of the inability to move forward negotiate for lower priced prescription on the very important intelligence au- drugs. The insurance industry can, the APPOINTMENT OF ACTING thorization as a result of the Repub- Veterans’ Administration can, HMOs PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE licans in unison voting against our can, but not Medicare. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ability to go forward. If there is no We are going to continue to try to clerk will please read a communication change in that, we made a couple of move forward on that issue even to the Senate from the President pro proposals yesterday which were all ob- though the Republicans obviously are tempore (Mr. BYRD). jected to, as to being able to move for- being led down the wrong path by the The assistant legislative clerk read ward on germane amendments, rel- pharmaceutical industry and the insur- the following letter: evant amendments. ance industry and HMOs. We are going

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

S4551

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.000 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4552 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 to continue to try to do the business of law was absolutely beyond comprehen- contraction. We are in the midst of this the American people even though sion. I quoted James Madison, who said information age, not the industrial sometimes it is difficult. that the laws should be understand- age. The focus of America, just as it I yield the floor. able, and that was part of his justifica- shifted from agriculture to industry, f tion for the writing of the Constitu- has now shifted to the information age, tion. and the richest man in America is not RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME Senator Moynihan, the Senator from the one who owns the most land, as was The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- New York, corrected me; that is, he true in the agricultural age, or the one pore. Under the previous order, the disagreed with me. He stood up and who owns the biggest factory, as was leadership time is reserved. said: Senator, we have long since true in the industrial age, but the one passed the point where the laws are un- who has mastered the capacity of the f derstandable. Look at the Tax Code; digital code, which is true in the infor- MORNING BUSINESS there is not a soul on the Earth who mation age. understands that, so do not make the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Finally, we are clearly not confined fact that the health care bill is incom- pore. Under the previous order, there to a land between two oceans. Money prehensible a justification for defeat- will now be a period for the transaction moves around the world, ideas move ing it. around the world, and concepts move of morning business for up to 60 min- I do not know how serious he was. utes, with Senators permitted to speak around the world with the click of a Senator Moynihan was known for his mouse. therein for up to 10 minutes each, with sense of humor, but he was also known the first 30 minutes controlled by the We do not have anything like the for his ability to go to the heart of the economic circumstances that prevailed Republican leader or his designee and issue. the last 30 minutes controlled by the when we adopted our present tax sys- Let me review the history of where tem. Yet we continue to perpetuate majority leader or his designee. we got our tax systems—and yes, the The Senator from Utah is recognized. those tax systems as if they still apply last word is plural because we have ba- to our situation. f sically two Federal tax systems in this The payroll tax penalizes the work- country. We have the payroll tax, and EXPRESSION OF SYMPATHY ing poor. It is an effective tax rate of 15 we have the income tax. Both were percent on the waitress who works at Mr. BENNETT. Mr. President, before adopted during the period of the Great minimum wage because 71⁄2 percent she I begin my statement with respect to Depression. has to pay and 71⁄2 percent her em- tax day, I wish to pause and express on Stop and think about the conditions ployer pays that otherwise she would behalf of the people of Utah our great which existed at that time. We were in get in her paycheck. That is a very sympathy for and anguish over the the worst economic contraction of our high, regressive tax. When it started history. The American unemployment tragedy that has occurred in the State out in the midst of the Great Depres- rate was running not only in double of Virginia. sion, it was 1 percent or 2 percent, and digits but as high as 25 percent. Of the I was once a resident of the State of now it has grown to a 15-percent effec- 75 percent who still had jobs, many of Virginia, and I now am a physical resi- tive rate. dent of the State of Virginia while re- them had jobs that were not adequate While the payroll tax penalizes the maining a legal resident of Utah, and I to their needs. It was a devastating working poor, the income tax discour- feel close to the people of Virginia. psychological time. The historians who ages the productive rich. The more you talk of it say that many of those who Virginia is known for its system of produce, the more the Government were unemployed would get up in the colleges spread throughout the State, comes in and says: We will take that morning, put on their suit and tie, put in magnificent rural settings. away from you. Blacksburg, VA, is one of those set- on their hat, and leave the house as if I have said before in this Chamber, I tings, and Virginia Tech is one of those they were going to work because they was fortunate enough to be involved in colleges. It comes as an enormous did not want the neighbors to know building a business during what many they were unemployed. The stigma of shock, and a sense of horror, to dis- newspapers called the decade of greed. unemployment was psychologically al- cover that a single student can be suffi- Ronald Reagan was President, and the most as devastating as the financial ciently disturbed in this quiet kind of top tax rate was 28 percent. We had ba- stigma of being unable to meet one’s setting to vent all of his demons in sically a flat tax system. It had two such a manner. bills and pay one’s mortgage. The second circumstance that was tiers, 15 percent and 28 percent, but it I want the people of Virginia and the was moving us toward a simple system, students and parents of Virginia Tech present at the time of the Great De- pression was that we were in the center a flat rate system. If I were running to know they are not alone in their that same business today, the effective horror and their grief and to share that of the industrial age. All of us, as we went to school, remember being taught rate would be 43 percent, and the dif- on behalf of the people of Utah whom I ference between 28 percent and 43 per- represent. about the industrial revolution when we shifted from basically an agricul- cent on the earnings of that company f tural economy to predominately an in- would probably make the difference between the company surviving or not. It TAX DAY dustrial economy, an economy of factories, an economy of mass—mass started out not in a garage but in a Mr. BENNETT. Mr. President, today building, mass production, mass com- basement. It grew to 4,000 employees. is tax day, the day when most of us file munications. Everything was industri- Think of the tax revenue coming from for an extension so we can have an- alized. those employees, think of the tax rev- other 3 months or so to work through The third situation that applied in enue coming from that successful busi- the problems connected with our taxes. those days was that our economy was ness. Then ask yourself: Would it have I wish to review the history of our tax basically protected by two oceans. We been a good thing to have prevented system and the groundwork for an at- were insulated from the rest of the that business from coming on board in tempt to try to solve some of its seri- world in a very real, physical, geo- the name of high tax rates? ous problems. graphical sense. We need the tax revenue. We perhaps One of the reasons we file for an ex- Stop and think about these three need more tax revenue than we are cur- tension is because the Tax Code itself interacting with each other—serious rently getting. I will grant that to my is impenetrable. There are few—or I economic contraction in the midst of friends on the Democratic side. But I would say if any—who understand it. I the industrial age at a time when we suggest to them a bargain. If we want remember when I was a very junior were self-contained between two to drive to a higher level of tax rev- Senator here on the floor talking about oceans. Ask yourself whether those enue, let’s recognize we live in a very health care, when President Clinton’s three conditions exist today. different world than we lived in in the administration was pursuing that, and We are in the midst of the longest 1930s, when we created our present tax making the point on the floor that the running expansion in our history, not system. Let’s talk about eliminating

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.001 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4553 the payroll tax. Senator Moynihan was mind today, as the Senator from Utah It is important, as we talk about willing to do that. Let’s talk about indicated. This is tax day. Americans taxes, that we maintain progrowth eliminating the present system of in- have reached deep into their pockets taxes in economic policy, the idea of come tax and replacing it with a flat today to pay their Federal income tax. extending those tax benefits which tax. Instead of saying we want to use At the same time, we are straining to have helped to bring about this growth the tax system to make economic deci- understand the Tax Code that governs is important. We are at a point where sions, using the tax system as the tiller how much we owe. It is very com- some of them will expire within the to steer the economy, let’s adopt the plicated. All of us understand that, next couple of years. They are the radical notion that the purpose of particularly today, or as we ask for an kinds of benefits that one needs to taxes is to raise money to run the Gov- extension, because it is so complicated know about before tax time so invest- ernment, and then ask ourselves, how and so difficult to actually arrive at a ments can and will be made because of can we raise it in as simple a manner conclusion with respect to taxes. the benefits. The policies in place are as possible, as efficient a manner as I am not sure it has to be that way. working. I don’t think we ought to possible, as competitive a manner as The Senator from Utah has described mess with success. At the same time, possible, so that we recognize the re- some changes that ought to be made. we have already passed as part of the ality in which we live—a tax system We talk about that always at tax time, budget an almost $1 trillion tax in- that is geared to an expanding econ- and then we seem to get away from it crease. Additionally, the budget that omy rather than shrinking one, a tax when tax time is over. We ought to was passed by the other side of the stay in there and ask: How can we do system that is geared to the informa- aisle increased spending and the size of this job? There have to be taxes paid. tion age rather than the industrial age, Government. I am concerned about Obviously, there has to be some fair- and a tax system that is geared to a that. These policies will undo all the ness among the taxpayers. But does it worldwide economy rather than one good that has been done over the last need to be this complicated? Does it several years. It is kind of a game: centered within our borders. need to be this technical? We find our- I am already having conversations What taxes are you going to have to selves with a tax program that is de- with some of my Democratic friends on beat to offset spending now and saying signed by literally hundreds of pro- it doesn’t need to be. But the fact is, it this issue. I think tax day is the day to grams that are more put in place to af- does. From 2008 to 2011, the budget will talk about it. We disagree as to wheth- fect behavior and to affect how things increase the deficit by $440 billion and er the President’s tax cuts should be are going to happen than they are for increase the gross debt by $2.2 trillion, extended. I voted for them. I think taxes. We will give tax relief for this, if if we go on as is now suggested. The they probably should be. But I am will- you will do this. If you do this, we will ing to scrap the whole thing, if my give you tax relief over here. The next budget ignores the impending Medicare friends across the aisle will make a thing you know, we have such a com- and Social Security crises. In fact, it deal with us whereby we say: Let’s plicated plan. would make it even worse by spending start with a clean sheet of paper and The average American has a great more than a trillion of the Social Secu- produce a tax system that is geared to deal of trouble understanding and com- rity surplus. the realities of the economic cir- plying with the Tax Code. The vast ma- When we talk about taxes, we also cumstances we face. I hope in this Con- jority of the taxpayers use tax pre- have to talk about the size, scope, and gress we can move in that direction. parers, even in the simplest of tax situ- role of the Federal Government. It is I yield the floor. ations. We in Congress get frustrated time we look at some of the things we The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- with the lack of compliance with the are doing and wonder why they need to pore. The Senator from Wyoming is Code; i.e., the tax gap that we hear so be done by the Federal Government recognized. much about. It is apparently substan- and whether, in fact, they should be f tial in terms of the amount of money done by State and local governments or, in fact, the private sector. We WORKING TOGETHER involved. But the average American is as frustrated by sincerely trying to should not be using tax policy as a sub- Mr. THOMAS. Mr. President, I rise to comply with the system in most cases. stitute for direct appropriations and talk about a couple of topics. Certainly I understand the tax gap. Maybe there encouraging behavior. That is what we we have a lot of issues facing us. We are some people who are actually try- have gotten into. We have talked a lot have a lot of things to do. Quite frank- ing to avoid taxes. But often the tax in recent years about tax reform. It is ly, we have been moving rather slowly gap is simply because of the com- high time we put it into action, wheth- over the last several months. We have plexity. er it is a flat tax, which is difficult to had one bill signed by the President. The good news, of course, is the econ- understand but is used in some places We need to decide how we are going to omy is strong. That is good news. The around the world—it seems to be work- move forward. The leader was talking economic policies of the last 6 years able—or whether it is a tax that is put about the Republicans holding up bills, are working and have continued to con- on the items that people purchase and so on. We need to understand that tribute to the growth of the economy, which would be a little difficult to sell. we are close enough in this Senate on to encourage investment, and to en- An acquisition tax is one that is being numbers and voting that we are going courage job creation. Our economy has talked about. But we ought to get away to have to have some agreements on added jobs for 43 straight months; 7.8 from the behavior tax and get back things before we lay them out. Neither million since August 2003. This is good, down to a simplified tax. side is going to be able to say, Here is particularly when we look at the We need taxes. The Government has the way we are going, because it is changes in the world economy. Again, to be funded and should be funded in a close. We do have different views. When the Senator from Utah was talking fair way. But it needs to be done in a there is legislation pending, the minor- about that. As we continue to grow different way. ity side has amendments they wish to jobs, that is a very good thing. Let me move to Medicare and the offer. The economy has added jobs to the noninterference issue that may be com- On the other hand, I admit that extent of 7.8 million over this period of ing up very soon. That is the competi- sometimes the minority side wants to time. The national employment rate tion on the Part D program by having hold things up, and we can’t do that ei- has fallen to 4.4 percent last month. the Government do the sort of work ther. So I hope we will look for a little Average earnings grew 4 percent last that needs to be done in the private more. I don’t expect us to come to- year. The elements of the economy are sector and having a change in the way gether with everything, but we need to good. Interestingly enough, largely be- this thing is operating. I think Part D, come together with a system which al- cause of the Iraq situation, we don’t which is rather new and still being in- lows us to talk about our differences hear much about the good economy or corporated but is pretty deeply in- and to reach some agreements. about the good things going on in the volved in participation at this point— I wish to comment on a couple of country. That is too bad. The strong 90 percent of Medicare beneficiaries issues. The first one, of course, is the economy has resulted in stronger tax have drug coverage—is very good. one that almost everyone has on their revenues in 2006. Folks are saving a considerable

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.003 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4554 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 amount of money under the program. tion, when there are these kinds of ways to move forward and solve some On average seniors are saving $1,200 things, it does cause the market to of the problems that are before us. yearly on drug costs. A survey reported work. Mr. President, I yield the floor and 80 percent of seniors are happy with So I think before we pass any bill, we suggest the absence of a quorum. the Part D benefits that went into ef- should know and consider, find out, as The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- fect recently. Folks in Wyoming are clearly as we can, what impact it has certainly telling me they like the plans on the folks. We do not want to talk pore. The clerk will call the roll. that are available there. There are too much, it seems, on the Senate floor The assistant legislative clerk pro- fewer plans available in a smaller pop- about how that will work. I think we ceeded to call the roll. ulation State than there are in some should talk about how it works. Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask others. Nevertheless, there are plans I have great respect for my col- unanimous consent that the order for available. They are available at the leagues on the other side of the aisle, the quorum call be rescinded. but they believe expanding the Govern- local drugstore, and they have an op- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ment is the way to solve health prob- tion of several plans from which to pore. Without objection, it is so or- lems. I do not agree. I do not believe choose which is very important for us dered. to maintain in the Part D program. Government price fixing is the answer The costs are 30 percent lower than to the question. f the original estimates, and it has Current law has increased choices, caused competition. It has caused the has lowered prices through market private sector to come about with re- competition, and that is the system we TRAGEDY AT VIRGINIA TECH have in this country. Market competi- duced estimates. That is very good. Mr. DURBIN. First, Mr. President, Even the expert the Democratic major- tion is where we need to go. So we should let the market continue to work let me say that every parent remem- ity put in place to head up the Congres- bers when their kids left the nest. sional Budget Office says this legisla- and say, as the saying goes, ‘‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’’ So I think that is There is that moment when they fi- tion that is proposed to have the Gov- nally reach that age where they are off ernment do the negotiations with drug how we are challenged. I am hopeful we can move forward. I to college. I can recall when Loretta companies would not save money, ac- and I took our three kids off to their cording to the CBO. In an April 10 let- think we have a lot of things to do. We need to get on with immigration. I do colleges of choice. It was kind of an ter to Chairman BAUCUS, the CBO emotional moment, with mixed feel- writes: not think there is anything more important to the country than to have an ings: proud they had reached this point We anticipate that under the bill the Sec- immigration law that works, that we in their lives when they were off on retary would lack the leverage to negotiate their own, sad that now they are leav- prices under the broad range of covered Part have a closed border, that we have peo- D drugs that are more favorable than those ple coming to work legitimately and ing their little family setting that had obtained by Prescription Drug Plans under legally who return after their period of been so familiar and so happy for so current law. Without the authority to estab- work or go through the process for be- many years. But you knew if you were lish a formulary or other tools to reduce coming citizens. The system we have lucky enough as a parent to have at- drug prices, we believe that the Secretary now is not working, and we need to tended college that they were facing an would not obtain significant discounts from change that. extraordinary personal opportunity to drug manufacturers across a broad range of I think energy continues to be a fac- go to college and meet so many other drugs. tor in the future, very clearly. There is students and expand their horizons and CBO also testified that negotiating no doubt there is going to be more de- learn what it means to live on your Medicare drug prices could make costs mand. There is no doubt there is going own resources. go up for everyone else. We have to un- to be a more difficult time in acquiring So that is why the tragedy of Vir- derstand we need a drug program, a energy sources from around the world. ginia Tech is so sad, that the happy Medicare program for everyone. There We have to depend more on our own, setting of college, where parents have are certain ways it would have to be including alternatives. I think alter- entrusted their students to the univer- done for the elderly, for the under- natives are a very good solution over sity campus, can turn into a scene of financed, and so on. But the plan needs time as we find out ways to use them horror as we found yesterday in to be there for everyone. and use them in the volumes that are Blacksburg, VA. We are all stunned The Government Accountability Of- necessary to fill our needs. fice has said price fixing may result in and heartsick over the staggering and In the meantime, I think we need to incomprehensible loss of life yesterday. limited access. You can imagine if be very careful to assist in developing there is negotiation on prices, some of We offer our deepest condolences to the those things we know how to do now families who lost precious sons and the pharmaceutical companies are that will make us have supplies in the going to say: OK, we are not going to daughters in that shooting rampage, interim as we wait for these alter- and to the victims who survived it. offer this drug; we won’t offer that natives to develop—coal, for example. drug. Under this plan, you have alter- Coal is our largest fossil resource. We As police search for clues, I hope natives and alternative programs from know ways to have plants develop elec- those of us in Congress will come to- which you can choose to take on dif- tricity from coal, where we can extract gether to also search honestly for an- ferent ideas. carbon, reinject the carbon, help with swers about what can be done to pre- Why do we want to take away a plan the climate change, and at the same vent another tragedy. This has been that has been moving toward success time have a supply of energy we need. billed as the worst massacre in Amer- and still has an opportunity for more So these are some of the things I ican history on a school or college success and change it before that op- guess I am a little frustrated we cannot campus. I can still recall 8 years ago in portunity has been worked through? move toward. We spend too much time the room behind me, the cloakroom, Last week the Finance Committee, of hassling over some of these problems when we heard of the Columbine shoot- which I am a member, held a markup that should not take that long. We ing when 15 students lost their lives. In to consider the pending legislation. We should get on with dealing with health Blacksburg, the estimate is somewhere asked the proponents of that to come care, get on with dealing with energy, between 32 or 33 who have lost their up with their plans. Frankly, they get on with dealing with immigration, lives. It is unspeakable to think about didn’t have any specifics as to how this get on with dealing with spending, get the placid setting of that college cam- would be handled. on with dealing with the size of the pus turning into a bloody scene yester- With just the idea we would have the budget. These are the real issues out day morning. Now we will go about the Government negotiate, it sounds like, there that I think the American peo- grim task of identifying those who wow, we would come up with some real ple—and I am sure Wyoming people— were injured and burying the remains good stuff. The fact is—the bottom line are concerned about. of the ones who were killed as the Na- is—I think most of us want to see the So I urge we move as quickly as we tion grieves with Virginia Tech Univer- market work. When there is competi- can, working together, so we can find sity.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.004 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4555 REMEMBERING CONGRESSMAN JIM land, and protected our clean water. It Jim won that first race against the JONTZ is part of the great legacy Jim Jontz House majority leader by two votes. He Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I wish to leaves. believed he picked up those last two say a few words about a friend of mine In addition to his important work on votes when he insisted on campaigning who passed away on Saturday. His the House Agriculture Committee, Jim at 10 p.m. the night before the election name was Jim Jontz. For 6 years, from served on the Education and Labor at a laundromat that was still open. 1987 to 1993, Jim represented Indiana’s Committee, the House Select Com- That was Jim Jontz—using every last fifth congressional district in the mittee on Aging, and on the Veterans’ minute to try to make a difference. It House of Representatives. That is Affairs Committee. On Veterans’ Af- was the way he ran his campaigns, it is where I first met him and worked with fairs, he worked with another brave the way he lived his life, and he did man—my closest friend when I came to him. make a difference. In 1991, the Almanac of American Congress and for so many years—Lane I join so many others—not just from Politics described him as: Evans. They worked to help veterans Indiana and from Congress, but from living with one of the most common One of the most incredibly hardworking across the country—in offering condo- and gifted natural politicians who has rou- but least understood injuries of war: lences to Jim’s family: his mother, tinely done the impossible. post-traumatic stress disorder. Those stepfather, and his sister who lives in Two years ago Jim was diagnosed efforts are part of Jim’s legacy that we Chicago. He was a good man who left a with colon cancer that had already are relying on today while so many of great legacy. I am proud to have called spread to his liver. We hoped at the our soldiers come back from Iraq and him my friend. He will be missed. time he would find a way to ‘‘do the Afghanistan trying to conquer the de- Mr. President, I yield the floor. impossible’’ again and defeat this ill- mons in their minds from that experi- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ness. He fought that cancer for 2 val- ence. pore. The Senator from Rhode Island is As everyone who knew Jim also iant years, but he died on Saturday recognized. knew, he was deeply committed to pre- f afternoon in his home in Portland, OR. serving the ancient forests in the Pa- Jim Jontz defied ordinary stereo- cific Northwest. That commitment IRAQ WAR types. He was a progressive Democrat earned him the support of celebrities Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, as elected three times by one of the most and common folk as well who shared I come to the floor this morning to conservative areas in the country to his love for America’s natural treas- share my concerns about this country’s represent them in Congress. People ures. It also won him the enmity of disastrous policies in Iraq, our Nation used to wonder all the time how that powerful logging interests and their is mourning the unimaginable loss of 32 was possible. I have some ideas. For supporters in Congress. people in the tragic and senseless one thing, Jim had a flair for trade- During the debate of the 1990 farm shootings at Virginia Tech. The marks. He was famous for riding his bill, Jim offered an amendment that thoughts and prayers of every Amer- sister’s rusty blue Schwinn with mis- would have prevented logging of an- ican are with the victims of this hor- matched tires in parades. cient forests and national parks. A rific episode, the deadliest shooting Jim also practiced a very personal powerful House member of the other this country has ever seen. We are only style of politics—something he learned party retaliated by drafting legislation beginning to learn exactly what hap- from his days as a grassroots organizer. that would have allowed the Federal pened yesterday. We may never know He ran what he called ‘‘shoe leather’’ Government to create a 1-million acre why it happened, but what we know for campaigns. His goal in every campaign national forest smack dab in the mid- certain is that in our shared grief we was to knock on as many doors and dle of Jim’s congressional district. will find shared resolve to care for the speak to as many people as possible. He In the end, Jim’s efforts to save old- wounded, to comfort the families and owned four pairs of shoes that he ro- growth forests probably ended his ca- friends of those who died, to support tated in and out of at a local repair reer in Congress. The timber industry this university and its community, and shop every week. That is how much targeted him for defeat when he ran for to search for answers and hope this shoe leather he put into his job. His his fourth House term in 1992 and he tragedy may never be repeated. campaign signs were always shaped lost, but he didn’t stop. In 1994, he ran I have been a member of the Senate like shoes. for the Senate, losing in his last cam- now for just over 100 days. I am here, Most importantly, Jim Jontz was a paign. In 1995, he moved to Portland, and many of my freshman colleagues bridge builder. There is a school of pol- OR, where he continued to work to are here, because the people of Rhode itics that says the way you win cam- save ancient forests and preserve the Island, like millions of other people paigns is to divide people up into Endangered Species Act. across this country, looked at the war groups and pit them against one an- In 1998, Jim was elected president of in Iraq and saw something that needed other. Jim was a master of a different Americans for Democratic Action, a to change. They saw hundreds of bil- and better kind of politics. He wanted position he held for 4 years before be- lions of dollars spent, much of it wast- to build bridges and understanding becoming ADA president emeritus. His ed on reconstruction contracts that tween groups that too often saw them- most recent project for the ADA was were sloppily managed or ill-advised. selves as enemies: organized labor and leading its ‘‘Working Families Win’’ They saw one after another in a succes- environmentalists, and family farmers campaign which focused on raising the sion of retired generals protesting the and environmentalists. He was always minimum wage, providing working failed strategy in Iraq and arguing for trying to find some common ground. families with affordable health care, a different course. They saw reports He cared deeply about preserving the and other issues of basic economic jus- that the Bush administration had mis- land and family farms and he believed tice. used and politicized our national intel- the best way to preserve family farms Jim Jontz grew up in Indianapolis ligence services to press a case for war was to help farmers be better stewards and graduated phi beta kappa from In- that did not exist. They read books, of the land. That seemed like a strange diana University in 1973 after less than chronicling a heartbreaking series of idea to some people 25 years ago. 3 years with a degree in geology. He mistakes and misjudgments. They saw Today, it surely makes sense. fell into politics by accident almost in tens of thousands of American soldiers Because of his bridge-building abili- 1974. He opposed a dam building project return home grievously injured, and ties, Jim was tapped to mediate dis- that he thought threatened his little mourned more than 3,000 men and putes between farmers and environ- community. He challenged the chief women who will never return home. mentalists during negotiations for the sponsor of the project, who happened to The country saw one of the greatest 1990 farm bill. One result was a wet- be the majority leader of the Indiana foreign policy disasters of American lands protection program that won House, and Jim won. At age 22 he be- history and demanded a new direction. strong support from farmers, environ- came a political giant killer. He also The American people voted for change. mentalists, and sportsmen. That pro- served in the Indiana Senate before They were sincere, sober, and correct gram has saved many family farms, being elected to Congress in 1996 at age in their judgment, and this new Con- preserved the natural beauty of our 35. gress listened, but President Bush did

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.006 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4556 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 not. Instead of committing to redeploy The achievements of our forces in Office. In a meeting with President our troops from Iraq, the President Iraq are serious—and here is what im- Bush and several of our colleagues who chose to escalate this conflict. Now, in- pressed me the most from our trip: So had recently traveled to Iraq, I urged stead of working with this new Con- is their commitment that the Iraqis him to announce a redeployment and a gress to forge a new strategy, a strat- must assume responsibility for the se- change of course was the strongest egy worthy of the sacrifices of our men curity and governance of their own force he had in his hands. I also gave and women in uniform, the President country. In nearly every briefing, at the President letters sent to me from and Vice President are on the attack— every level of command, the message Rhode Island folks with family mem- on the political attack—not against came loud and clear that our military bers serving in Iraq. Those messages the Iraqi leaders who are slow-walking is highly focused on accomplishing a said loudly and clearly that it is time us through this conflict in their coun- handover of security responsibilities so to bring our troops home. try, but against the American people as to bring our troops home. As a But rather than acting to change who have rightly questioned their fail- young soldier in mess hall told me, the course, the President keeps playing ing policy. The question is this: How Iraqis ‘‘won’t stand up until we start to politics. He has threatened to veto leg- much longer will this President refuse stand back.’’ islation this Congress passed to provide to listen? I do believe the Iraqis need more mo- critically needed funding for our troops Since joining the Senate just over 100 tivation to stand up. For instance, in the field. In our meeting last week, days ago, I have worked to put pressure there is key legislation the Iraqi Par- he said he was prepared for what he on the Bush administration to redeploy liament must pass that our military called a ‘‘classic political showdown.’’ our troops from Iraq. In mid-March, as commanders believe is necessary if this The question of what to do in Iraq is a member of the Senate Intelligence surge is to succeed. They told me we not a political fight between President Committee, I traveled to Iraq to get a cannot succeed in this military surge Bush and the Democrats in Congress. It firsthand look at the situation on the unless it is accompanied by a political is a struggle between the President and ground, to see the hard work of our surge, an economic surge, and a diplo- the will and the good sense of the dedicated troops, and to talk with our matic surge. Critical measures to fa- American people. It is long past time military commanders and with Iraqi cilitate provincial elections, regulation that their voices were heard. political officials. In Baghdad, our del- and revenue-sharing for the Iraqi oil I yield the floor and suggest the ab- egation met with several of the officers industry, reversing de-Beatification in sence of a quorum. leading America’s military engage- favor of reunification, and restricting The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- ment in Iraq, including GEN David sectarian militias are all legislative pore. The clerk will call the roll. Petraeus, LTG Raymond Odierno, and initiatives that have stalled. The assistant legislative clerk pro- LTG Martin Dempsey, as well as mem- Iraq must take action and move this ceeded to call the roll. bers of our U.S. Embassy country legislation forward and step up its own The PRESIDENT pro tempore. The team. We also met with Mahmud al- security presence. That will require Senator from South Carolina is recog- Mashhadani, Speaker of the Iraqi Par- real commitment and urgency, Mr. nized. liament, and National Security Min- President. And it would be putting it Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I ask ister Shirwan al-Waili. In my capacity mildly to say I was not reassured by unanimous consent that the order for as a member of the Intelligence Com- the signals I received from our meet- the quorum call be rescinded. mittee, I also met with members of our ings with Iraqi officials. There is a seri- The PRESIDENT pro tempore. With- Nation’s intelligence staff and their ous disconnect between the urgency of out objection, it is so ordered. Iraqi counterparts. our generals about this legislation, and Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, I ask In Fallujah, we spoke with GEN Wal- the absence of urgency or energy on unanimous consent to speak for 10 min- ter E. Gaskin, Marine commander in the part of Iraqi officials. One soldier I utes in morning business. Anbar Province, and other commanders met put it in simple, homespun terms. The PRESIDENT pro tempore. With- of the Marine Expeditionary Force. I He said: ‘‘If your parents are willing to out objection, it is so ordered. met three brave Rhode Islanders there: pay for the movies and you don’t have f Kristie St. Jean from Woonsocket, to spend your own money, or if you can UNANIMOUS-CONSENT REQUEST— Christopher Tilson from Providence, get your big sister to do your home- S. RES. 123 and Anthony Paulo from Westerly, all work for you, who wants that to stop?’’ serving our Nation with dedication, It does have to stop and this Congress Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, in Janu- courage, and honor. is taking action to make that clear. I ary this body took a significant step On our return, we traveled through was proud to vote with a majority of toward reforming the way we spend Germany to visit Landstuhl Regional the Senate to pass binding bipartisan American taxpayer dollars. While de- Medical Center near Ramstein Air Base legislation to require the safe redeploy- bating the ethics reform bill, Senators where our soldiers, sailors, marines, ment of our brave troops beginning in voted 98 to 0 in favor of my amendment and airmen, badly injured in Iraq and 120 days, with the goal of having the requiring transparency for 100 percent Afghanistan, are med-evac’d to receive vast majority of our troops redeployed of Member-requested earmarks. This critical medical care before their re- from Iraq by the end of March. I am was an early sign that Congress was turn home. MAJ Andrew Risio, who also a cosponsor of the recently intro- going to change the way we do business hails from Ashaway, RI, is helping produced Feingold-Reid legislation to con- here in Washington. vide care to our wounded soldiers in tinue to put pressure on the Bush ad- But since then, I am afraid my opti- that facility. ministration to safely redeploy our mism has been tempered by a healthy The young men and women I met troops. dose of political reality. The ethics bill with in Iraq and their families have Only the kind of pressure a decision containing new Senate rules has been made tremendous sacrifices, and their to redeploy creates will provide the stalled, and its future enactment is expert performance and can-do attitude motivation needed for Iraq to take the anything but certain. In the meantime, reinforced my pride in the American necessary steps to assume responsi- the Senate has continued business as spirit. The security posture we main- bility for its own governance and secu- usual, as earmarking continues unfet- tain around our military bases is rity. An announcement that our troops tered from transparency rules. The ap- strong, and our troops are working will be leaving will encourage the propriators are soliciting earmarks. hard to secure the cities and country- Iraqis to step up and take their secu- The WRDA bill is full of undisclosed side of Iraq. The work of our intel- rity seriously, will discourage the in- earmarks, and none of the committees ligence and Special Operations per- surgents, and will send a message to are complying with the anticorruption sonnel, which often runs nonstop the world community that stability in transparency requirements. through the night, is remarkable and Iraq will no longer be the responsi- Upon notice that I was going to offer exhibits a level of professionalism in bility of America alone. this bill again on the floor, the Demo- which every American can be very con- Last week, I had the opportunity to cratic leadership of the Appropriations fident. take that message directly to the Oval Committee just issued a press release

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.007 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4557 saying they were going to comply with 0. This is a Senate rule, and the only tifying us of his intent to make this these rules. That is really good news. thing left for us to do is actually enact unanimous-consent request. I wish to So if the appropriators want to comply, it. make clear to him and to all Members there is no reason at all that we Let me just read a few quotes from that the Senate Democratic leadership shouldn’t enact this rule as a Senate the Democratic leadership when we remains fully committed to earmark rule. worked out the language on this bill disclosure, but we believe his sugges- Yesterday’s Roll Call reported that before. This includes a lot of Demo- tion, taking it piece by piece, is not the the Senate Environment and Public cratic language. right way to accomplish our goal. Works Committee is advancing two Majority leader HARRY REID said: In Earlier this year, we considered com- pieces of legislation packed with bil- effect, we have combined the best ideas prehensive ethics reform. It is a prod- lions of dollars worth of earmarks, but from both sides of the aisle, Democrat uct of the first 100 days of the new the committee is not asking Senators and Republican, to establish the leadership of Congress that we are to certify that they have no financial strongest possible disclosure rules in most proud of. Included in that reform interests in the projects, at least for this regard. was a provision related to transparency now. In other words, the Senate is con- Majority whip DICK DURBIN said: I am in earmarking. I supported this reform. tinuing to conduct its business in the pleased with this bipartisan solution. I In fact, I joined Senator DEMINT in old way, which was rejected by the believe it reflects the intent of all on crafting a new definition of ‘‘earmark’’ American voters. both sides of the aisle to make sure and requiring that earmarks in legisla- We cannot continue to wait. The Sen- there is more disclosure. We have full tion be posted on the Internet prior to ate rules must be changed now if we agreement. The language has been vet- their final consideration on the floor of are going to implement what the chair- ted. the Senate. We both agreed on this lan- man of the Appropriations Committee, The bill I offer today as a Senate rule guage. It passed with an overwhelming the distinguished chairman, called an is exactly the language we passed 98 to majority of 98 to 0, and the underlying accountable, aboveboard, transparent 0. bill passed 96 to 2. process for funding decisions, and put The majority leader offered up his No one is suggesting these earmark an end to the abuses that have harmed own excuse when he said his office was rules will not be implemented. In fact, the credibility of Congress. not notified in advance. In order to today the Senate Appropriations Com- I agree 100 percent. My proposal, S. make sure that excuse is not used mittee, chaired by the President pro Res. 123, creates a new Senate rule that again, I sent a letter last week to the tempore of the Senate, who is now pre- requires public disclosure of the ear- Democratic and Republican leaders no- siding, Senator BYRD, has announced a marks contained in bills passed by tifying them of my intent to seek new policy of transparency in account- committee. This disclosure includes unanimous consent today to enact a ability, totally consistent with the lan- the name of the Member requesting the Senate earmark disclosure rule—again, guage which we agreed on and adopted earmark, the name and address of the the one we have already passed 98 to 0. overwhelmingly on the floor of the intended recipient of the earmark, the But I understand the other side has Senate. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- purpose of the earmark, and a certifi- come up with a third excuse. This time, sent that the committee’s announce- cation that the requesting Member and they are going to say that enacting ment on these sweeping reforms be his or her spouse have no financial in- earmark disclosure requirements will printed in the RECORD. dilute the effect of the lobbying and terest in the requested earmark. These There being no objection, the mate- are simple transparency ideas that the ethics reform bill. This is probably the rial was ordered to be printed in the American people need. weakest of all of their excuses. How RECORD, as follows: Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- does enacting an ethics reform provi- [U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations sent that the following Senators be sion dilute its effect? The only thing Press Release, Apr. 17, 2007] added as cosponsors to S. Res. 123: Sen- diluting ethics reform is our unwilling- SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE ator ENSIGN, Senator MCCAIN, Senator ness to abide by this new rule. This ex- ANNOUNCES EARMARK REFORM STANDARDS ENZI, Senator MARTINEZ, and Senator cuse rings hollow because the majority WASHINGTON, DC.—The U.S. Senate Com- MCCASKILL. did not bother to include this rule in mittee on Appropriations will adopt an un- The PRESIDENT pro tempore. With- their original bill. When we brought it precedented policy of transparency and ac- out objection, it is so ordered. to the floor, they tried to kill it. countability beginning with the Fiscal 2008 Mr. DEMINT. Mr. President, this res- I have tried to work in a bipartisan appropriations cycle, Committee Chairman olution will immediately require all manner on this issue. I have been pa- Robert C. Byrd, D–W.Va., announced Tues- Members who request earmarks to cer- day. tient. But it has been over 80 days. The ‘‘The changes that we are making in the tify in writing that they have no finan- earmark process is continuing as usual, appropriations process will help to restore cial interests in the requested ear- and all the American people are get- confidence in the Congress,’’ Chairman Byrd mark. ting is excuses. It is time to enact this explained. ‘‘We are ending ‘business as usual’ Following the imprisonment of Con- rule. in Washington, D.C. We will restore integrity gressman Duke Cunningham for selling Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- to the process. We will increase account- earmarks for bribes, Americans need to sent that the Rules Committee be disability and openness, while we also will work know their elected officials are not charged from further consideration and to substantially reduce the number of earmarks in legislation.’’ using public office for private gain. the Senate now proceed to S. Res. 123; Until S. 1, the Ethics and Earmark Reform This is simply information every Sen- further, that the resolution be agreed legislation, is signed into law, the Senate ator should be willing to provide, and I to and the motion to reconsider be laid Appropriations Committee will follow these believe most are. upon the table. standards: But it is beginning to look as if the The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Is All earmarks will be clearly identified in new majority is not really interested in there objection? the committee bill and report. The identi- shining light on the earmarking proc- The Senator from Illinois is recog- fication will include the requesting Senator, ess. Before we left for the Easter re- the amount of the earmark, the recipient of nized. the earmark, and the purpose of the ear- cess, I asked unanimous consent for Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, reserv- mark. If there is no specifically intended re- the Senate to adopt S. Res. 123 so that ing the right to object. cipient for an earmark, the intended loca- we could enact this important rule im- The PRESIDENT pro tempore. The tion of the activity will be listed. mediately. The majority objected and Senator from Illinois reserves the right An earmark shall be defined as it is in the said this proposal needed to go through to object. Senate-passed Ethics and Earmark Reform the ‘‘appropriate process.’’ That is a The Senator from Illinois. legislation. An earmark is a legislative pro- sad excuse. This rule has already gone Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, in ex- vision or report language included primarily at the request of a Senator, Member of the through the normal process. It was of- plaining my reservation, I first wish to House, Delegate, or Resident Commissioner, fered as an amendment on the floor, it commend the Senator from South that provides, authorizes, or recommends a was modified by the leadership of the Carolina on the courtesy he has ex- specific amount of discretionary budget au- Democratic Party, and it passed 98 to tended to both sides of the aisle in no- thority, credit authority, or other spending

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.012 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4558 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 authority for a contract, loan, loan guar- few weeks. As soon as the House acts, What we have heard is rhetoric with- antee, grant, loan authority, or other ex- the Senate will move for conference as out responsibility. There is no question penditure with or to an entity, or targeted to quickly as possible. We should not take that by moving, as Senator DEMINT a specific State, locality, or Congressional up bits and pieces of the larger bill. has, we finally got the Appropriations district, other than through a statutory or administrative formula driven or competi- The Senate has expressed a strong Committee to endorse what was passed tive award process. support for earmark disclosure, and the in the ethics legislation. However, The committee bill and report will be pub- Senate Appropriations Committee, after the ethics legislation was passed, lished on the Internet, both through the which I am proud to be a member of, I spoke on the floor. I was the last per- committee site (http://appropriations. has taken the lead on this side of the son to speak on the floor late that senate.gov) as well as on the Library of Con- aisle in strong reforms. The goal of the evening. I made the statement—and it gress’ website (http://thomas.loc.gov). Senator from South Carolina is already is now proving to be true—that it was Senators will be required to certify that being implemented, and I hope he can neither they nor their spouses have a finan- ethics reform in name only, no sub- cial interest in any earmark. Senators will take ‘‘yes’’ for an answer. stance. need to submit a letter to the Appropriations I would like to correct one thing he We now hear an argument that says: Committee certifying that they have no fi- said for the record. When he started his We should not pass the most signifi- nancial interest in a project. Those letters remarks about earmarks, he said at cant portion of the ethics bill in a will be available for public inspection. What one point that when it comes to ear- stand-alone process so that we can, in constitutes a Senator’s ‘‘financial interest’’ marks, this Senate is ‘‘business as fact, do what the American people shall be determined by the guidelines of the usual.’’ As the Presiding Officer and want, which is transparency in this Senate Ethics Committee and Senate Rule those who follow the Senate know, Government. XXXVII. that is hardly the case. When we con- It is interesting, if you know how Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, under sidered the continuing resolution this place operates, that if in fact you these new guidelines, all earmarks will which had all of the pending appropria- have an earmark reform on appropria- be clearly identified in the committee tions bills from the previously Repub- tions only, and no earmark reform on bill and report, including the request- lican-controlled Congress yet enacted, an authorization, you have no earmark ing Senator, the amount of the ear- we took a bold move on our part—that reform because once something is au- mark, the recipient of the earmark, is, the Democratic side—and elimi- thorized in an authorizing bill through and the purpose of the earmark. An nated 9,300 earmarks that were in bills an earmark, it no longer will apply to earmark shall be defined as in the Sen- authored when the Senator from South the appropriations bill. So we will have ate-passed ethics reform bill, which Carolina was in the majority. We the same thing going on. The reason we Mr. DEMINT and I cosponsored. The eliminated every single one of them— are seeing an objection to earmark re- committee bill and report will be pub- all 9,300 earmarks. It contained no new form is because we truly, in the major- lished on the Internet—as my amend- earmarks. This continuing resolution ity of cases, don’t want earmark re- ment required—so that the world can eliminated funding for over $2.1 billion form. What we are doing is, we are see these earmarks in advance of final of earmarks for over 1,900 separate doing it—talk about piecemeal—only passage. Senators will be required to projects. in one area. What we will do is, there certify that neither they nor their This is hardly business as usual. won’t be an earmark on an appropria- spouses have any financial interests in Business as usual would have been to tions bill. What we will do is authorize any earmark. These guidelines will be take the bills from a Republican Con- them now. Since we won’t apply the in place until the ethics reform bill is gress, with thousands of earmarks, and earmark rule to authorization bills, signed into law. enact them into law. We did not do the American public will once again be I commend the Presiding Officer as that. So to suggest we are continuing hoodwinked. They won’t know whose chairman of the Appropriations Com- along the path that was the case when financial interest it is nor who it will mittee for reaching out to the other there were previous leaders in Congress benefit. side of the aisle, to the ranking mem- is just not supported by the facts. The problem with ethics in Wash- ber, Senator COCHRAN from Mississippi, Beyond that, I can give my assurance ington isn’t the lobbyists, isn’t the so that he has been informed of our in- to the Senator from South Carolina, campaign contributions, it is the Mem- tention to reform this earmark proc- my colleague, that the earmark lan- bers of Congress. Until that changes, ess. guage which we adopted in the Senate until the American people demand ac- Earmark disclosure, though, is only is going to be the standard by which we countability—what we just heard was a one part of the much broader package. live. The Appropriations Committee flimsy excuse for not accepting this We need to strengthen gift and travel has made that very clear. I believe that into the rules of the Senate. We voted rules for Members of the Senate, close is what we should do. on it. The American people deserve it. the revolving door, strengthen lob- So at this point, Mr. President, ac- It is a sham. bying disclosure, outlaw the K Street knowledging the commitment of the I again ask unanimous consent that Project, this notorious project in which Senator from South Carolina to this the Rules Committee be discharged Mr. Abramoff and others were involved, issue and acknowledging that he from further consideration, and the and take other steps to clean up the should be standing here and saying he Senate now proceed to S. 123; further way business is done in Washington. has accomplished quite a bit to this that the resolution be agreed to and Now, if the Senator from South Caro- point, I would have to say that his ad- the motion to reconsider be laid upon lina has his way, we will take one piece ditional suggestion today of plucking the table. today. Some will suggest taking an- out one piece of ethics reform and mov- The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Is other piece tomorrow. I think it will ing on it would be inconsistent with there objection to the several requests? dilute our effort. We need, within the our ultimate goal of having com- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, reserv- next few weeks, to work with the prehensive ethics reform. In the meaning the right to object. House to pass this measure. For those time, we have followed this measure The PRESIDENT pro tempore. The who ask: Well, why hasn’t it taken through the Senate Appropriations Senator from Illinois reserves the right place so far, the House ethics reform Committee and, as a consequence, I to object. was done by House rule, did not involve must object. Mr. DURBIN. It strikes me as odd a joint action by the House and the The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Objec- that the Senator from Oklahoma will Senate. tion is heard. not acknowledge the obvious. The ear- So we are going to find a vehicle that The Senator from Oklahoma is recog- mark reform language which he sup- will accomplish our Senate ethics re- nized. ported, and the Senator from South form, statutory and rules reform, and Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, I appre- Carolina supports, passed the Senate 98 do it in the appropriate manner and do ciate the opportunity to speak on this to 0. It was part of the first comprehen- it in a comprehensive way. We have issue. It is very interesting. The Amer- sive ethics reform package this Senate been assured by House leaders that ican people should hear what has just has seen in many years; many years of they will move on this bill in the next gone on here. Republican rule, I might add. We are

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.001 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4559 now saying that the Appropriations sume consideration of S. 372, which the minority. He did not want to end the Committee has voluntarily said, even clerk will report. debate prematurely and the oppor- before the conference committee that The assistant legislative clerk read tunity to offer amendments by the mi- we are going to live by these standards. as follows: nority, especially with 18 Members ab- I will not quibble with the Senator A bill (S. 372) to authorize appropriations sent from the Senate due to bad weath- from Oklahoma because he and I see for fiscal year 2007 for the intelligence and er. I supported him because it is the re- this quite differently. But authorizing intelligence-related activities of the United sponsibility of our two leaders to man- a project does not mean it has money. States Government, the Intelligence Com- age the floor debate and to protect the That is why we have authorizing community Management Account, and the Cen- tral Intelligence Agency Retirement and Dis- rights of minorities and absent Sen- mittees and appropriating committees. ability System, and for other purposes. ators. While the attacks on me were in- I can authorize the Sun, the Moon, the Pending: appropriate and offensive, I will con- stars, and the Milky Way, but I will Rockefeller/Bond amendment No. 843, in tinue to work for passage of this intel- not deliver any of those to anybody the nature of a substitute. ligence reform measure, which is one of until I get to an appropriations bill. Collins amendment No. 847 (to amendment the most important bills we can pass in Mr. COBURN. Will the Senator yield No. 843), to reaffirm the constitutional and this session. The measure is too impor- for a question? statutory protections accorded sealed do- tant to be derailed by personal and po- Mr. DURBIN. When I am finished, I mestic mail. litical attacks. will. All of the authorization in the The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. My friends on the other side of the world notwithstanding, unless you ap- CASEY). The Senator from West Vir- aisle want more oversight of intel- propriate the money from the Treasury ginia. ligence. I agree. We got into problems for the project, it is just a good idea Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, prior to 9/11 because we didn’t have that might happen. the Republican manager, Senator good oversight. We have found that Mr. COBURN. Will the Senator yield? BOND, and I and our staffs have been there are holes that need to be plugged Mr. DURBIN. I said I will. Allow me working together to clear some amend- in oversight. We need to move forward. to finish my sentence. What I am sug- ments, and we have in fact cleared al- But forcing an end to the debate with gesting is, other committees may take ready 10 amendments. I now ask unani- 18 Members absent was not the way to this up as well on an interim basis. But mous consent that it be in order for the do so. I am hoping that we can show the bills that are going to move on the Senate to consider en bloc the fol- progress by adopting amendments and floor of the Senate are the appropria- lowing amendments, that they be moving this bill forward to exercise our tions bills. Now that the budget resolu- agreed to en bloc, and that the motions oversight to provide the intelligence tion is passed, our major obligation is to reconsider be laid upon the table en community the direction they need. to achieve something we haven’t done bloc. These were agreed to by both Our desire is to move forward in the for years. We want to try to pass the sides and have been cleared by all par- regular order, work our way through appropriations bills on time. That ties. The numbers of the amendments amendments, work out a time agree- means that the time of the Senators are 845, 846, 856, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, ment, dispose of amendments, and from Oklahoma and South Carolina 863, and 872. hopefully conclude with a bill that The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there and all of us will be consumed with ap- most, if not the overwhelming major- propriations bills, and the rules we will objection to the several requests? Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, I object. ity, of Members can support so we can play by on earmarks for those bills get to conference and continue the which will be front and center, our The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- tion is heard. process. major business, will be the same rule I will continue to work with the that you voted for, the vote that the The Senator from Missouri. Mr. BOND. Mr. President, it is very chairman under the difficult cir- Senator from Oklahoma cast on this important that we move forward with cumstances that he and I both face. I floor for earmark reform. So I say to this bill. We have given time for our am not for delay or any effort, real or the Senator from Oklahoma, he can be colleagues to debate and raise other imagined, to kill this bill, but I have prepared as these bills come to the questions. We would ask that we be honest concerns, as others, that there floor to see the very approach he has able to proceed in a reasonable time- should be an opportunity to address suggested be followed voluntarily. In frame to take up amendments which through the regular order in a reason- the meantime we have the assurance of have been introduced by the chairman able timeframe. If there are unreason- the House that this matter is going to and the vice chairman together and re- able delays, then we will pursue other conference committee. flect bipartisan agreement. As vice options which are necessary sometimes Suggesting that we have abandoned chairman, I am firmly committed to to move a bill. our commitment to reform or calling it passage of intelligence reauthorization. Because of the difficult division a flimsy excuse overstates the Sen- I would say further it remains my in- present in recent years over these ator’s position. tention to reduce the partisanship and issues, we have been unable to get an I object. authorization bill passed. I find that Mr. COBURN. Will the Senator yield politicization of intelligence matters. Events on the Senate floor yesterday, unacceptable, and I am committed to for a question? The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Sen- including direct personal attacks on finding a bill, but it can’t be just any ators will please address other Sen- me, indicate this remains a tall order. bill. It must be the product of give and ators through the Chair and refer to This bill makes getting a bill harder, take and mutual respect and com- other Senators in the third person, not and it is already hard enough. Given promise between both parties and both the kitchen sink provided in the ad- in the first person. bodies and one the administration can Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I object ministration’s Statement of Adminis- sign. to the unanimous consent request. tration Policy indicating a possible Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Will the vice The PRESIDENT pro tempore. The veto, the chairman and I are trying in chairman yield? Senator from Illinois objects. good faith, as the chairman indicated, Mr. BOND. Yes. to work through 9, 10, or a dozen Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, f amendments to correct the major ob- the Senator from Oklahoma has indi- CONCLUSION OF MORNING jections that the administration has. cated to me that he will not object to BUSINESS The administration must know that the managers’ amendment going for- The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Morn- as we try to weigh their key priorities, ward, if he would be allowed to finish ing business is closed. they must respect our priorities and what he was talking about, which I as- f our fundamental oversight responsi- sume would happen within the next 5 bility which I and the Members of this or 8 minutes. If that is the case, then INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION body should take seriously, as any Sen- we will have made progress. ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007 ator will. Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I didn’t The PRESIDENT pro tempore. Under As for yesterday’s events, Senator mean to cut the Senator off. For the the previous order, the Senate will re- MCCONNELL manages the floor for the movement of this bill, we had hoped to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.015 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4560 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 be able to clear some amendments so tions might be in association with We have cleared 10. I now ask unani- we could show progress, but the Sen- that. mous consent that it be in order for the ator from Oklahoma is seeking rec- So the fact the majority objects to Senate to consider en bloc the fol- ognition. I am sure he has some impor- incorporating what we obviously, sup- lowing amendments, that they be tant things to say. I hope we will finish posedly, all agreed to—or was it the agreed to en bloc, and the motions to in time to allow us to pass the cleared fact that people voted for it because reconsider be laid upon the table, en amendments prior to 12:30. I apologize the people wanted us to and now we bloc. The amendment numbers are 845, to the Senator from Oklahoma and will not carry it out? What it does, by 846, 856, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 863, and thank the Chair. not adopting this rule, Senator 872. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- DEMINT’s rule, is we undermine again The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ator from Oklahoma. the integrity of this body. objection? Mr. COBURN. I ask unanimous con- The American people deserve trans- Mr. CORNYN. I object. sent to speak as in morning business parency. The American people should The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- for the next 10 minutes. have transparency. The only way we tion is heard. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without can truly be held accountable by the Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Would the Sen- objection, it is so ordered. American people is if they can see ev- ator yield? EARMARKS erything that is going on. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I be- Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, it is To deny this rule, to deny the fact we lieve the Senator from West Virginia very important we not leave the debate are going to operate in the open, to has the floor. I don’t. on earmarks. What we saw was an issue deny the fact we are going to be held The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- about the integrity of Congress which accountable is exactly what the Amer- ator from West Virginia is recognized. Senator DEMINT and myself have been ican people are sick of. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. The Senator championing. There are only 4 Mem- I remind my colleagues we do not from West Virginia would be interested bers of the Senate who don’t offer ear- have a higher favorability rating than as to why it is the distinguished Sen- marks, 4 out of 100 who don’t play the the President at this time, whom we ator from Texas objects. game of earmarks. It is important that are so quick to impugn, and the reason Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, let me the American people know that if we we do not is the very reason we saw in suggest the absence of a quorum. are going to have earmarks, it ought to the objection placed on this rule, this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- be clearly identified. We ought to know resolution. To me, it is a sad day in the ator from West Virginia has the floor. who is benefiting, who is getting the Senate because we are playing games Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I money, who is sponsoring the money, again with the American people. I said, suggest the absence of a quorum. and what the outcome will be. It is after we passed the ethics bill, it will The PRESIDING OFFICER. The great that the Appropriations Com- be a long time until we see anything. It clerk will call the roll. mittee has just stated that they are will be a long time. It has already been The assistant legislative clerk pro- going to voluntarily accede to the rules a long time. Why hasn’t it been ceeded to call the roll. we passed 98 to 0, except there is one conferenced? There have been 80 days Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask small problem with that; the fact is, to conference an ethics bill. There has unanimous consent that the order for there is no enforcement of the rules not been the first step. There has not the quorum call be rescinded. available to Senators when they vio- been the naming of conferees. There The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without late that very point, which means they has not been the first step to move for- objection, it is so ordered. may follow that, but if, in fact, they do ward toward that. AMENDMENT NO. 849 TO AMENDMENT NO. 843 not, we have no course of action with The American people should sur- (Purpose: To amend chapter 113B of title 18, which to raise a point of order when mise—and correctly—the Congress still United States Code, to prohibit the re- they do not. wants to work in the shadows, they cruitment of persons to participate in ter- I wish to go back to something the still do not want to have transparency; rorism, to provide remedies for immigra- esteemed Senator from Illinois said, therefore, they still do not want to be tion litigation, and to amend the Immigra- which is, we have gotten what we want. held accountable by the American peo- tion and Nationality Act to modify the re- No, we have not. We have not gotten it ple. quirements related to judicial review of until the American people get the I thank you for the time and yield visa revocation and to modify the require- transparency they need about how the back, and I will offer no objection to ments related to detention and removal of aliens ordered removed) Congress operates. If you eliminate the request of the Senator from West earmarks in appropriations but do not Virginia to accept amendments on the Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask eliminate earmarks in authorizations, Intelligence authorization bill. unanimous consent to set aside the what is authorized as an earmark will I suggest the absence of a quorum. pending amendment and call up come to the appropriation as not an The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Amendment No. 849. earmark because it is then authorized, clerk will call the roll. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there so we will play the same game but one The assistant legislative clerk pro- objection? step further back. ceeded to call the roll. Without objection, it is so ordered. I am disappointed at the leadership, Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask The clerk will report. that they would block what the Amer- unanimous consent that the order for The assistant legislative clerk read ican people so fully want. And the idea the quorum call be rescinded. as follows: we have to conference what should be a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The Senator from Texas [Mr. CORNYN] pro- Senate rule, when the House has al- objection, it is so ordered. poses an amendment numbered 849 to amend- ready passed a rule—they operate Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask ment No. 843. under the very same thing Senator unanimous consent to set aside the (The amendment is printed in the DEMINT has asked for—all we have to pending amendment so I may call up RECORD of Monday, April 16, 2007, under do is agree we will, in fact, abide by amendments Nos. 848, 849, 850, 851, 852, ‘‘Text of Amendments.’’) those rules by accepting that as a rule and 853, en bloc. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I yield of the Senate. Anything less than that The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there the floor. is political Washington doublespeak objection? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- which the American people are tired of. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Objection. ator from West Virginia is recognized. There should not be one earmark, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- AMENDMENTS NOS. 846, AS MODIFIED; 856, 858, 859, one special favor, one indication of tion is heard. 860, AS MODIFIED; 861, AS MODIFIED; 862, 863, anything done at any level—authoriza- Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, AND 872, AS MODIFIED, EN BLOC, TO AMEND- tion or appropriations—the American as I indicated before, the distinguished MENT NO. 843 people are not fully aware of as to who Republican manager, Senator BOND, Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I has the vetted interest and who will be and I and our staffs have been working resume my request which I will make the benefactor and what the motiva- together to clear some amendments. in full, and that is that the Republican

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.016 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4561 manager, Senator BOND, and this Sen- current disclosure to all the members of the (B) The total number of prisoners or de- ator from West Virginia and our staffs Select Committee on Intelligence of the Sen- tainees held at each prison or facility during have been working together to clear ate and the Permanent Select Committee on its operation. some amendments. We have cleared 10 Intelligence of the House of Representatives (C) The current number of prisoners or de- of any information necessary to keep all the tainees held at each operational prison or fa- amendments—9 amendments. I ask members of such committees fully and cur- cility. unanimous consent that it be in order rently informed on all intelligence activities (D) The total and average annual costs of for the Senate to consider en bloc the covered by this section.’’. each prison or facility during its operation. following amendments, that they be (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Subsection (E) A description of the interrogation pro- agreed to en bloc, and the motions to (d) of such section, as redesignated by para- cedures used or formerly used on detainees reconsider be laid upon the table en graph (1)(A) of this subsection, is amended at each prison or facility, including whether bloc. Those amendment numbers are by striking ‘‘subsection (b)’’ and inserting a determination has been made that such 846, 856, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 863, and ‘‘subsections (b) and (c)’’. procedures are or were in compliance with 872. (c) REPORTS AND NOTICE ON COVERT AC- the United States obligations under the Ge- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there TIONS.— neva Conventions and the Convention (1) FORM AND CONTENT OF CERTAIN RE- Against Torture. objection? PORTS.—Subsection (b) of section 503 of such Without objection, it is so ordered. AMENDMENT NO. 861, AS MODIFIED Act (50 U.S.C. 413b) is amended— Beginning on page 96, strike line 24 and all The amendments were agreed to, as (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) follows: that follows through page 97, line 6, and in- as subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively; sert the following: AMENDMENT NO. 846, AS MODIFIED (B) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ after ‘‘(b)’’; and ‘‘(2)(A) As directed by the Director of Na- On page 37, between lines 19 and 20, insert (C) by adding at the end the following new tional Intelligence, the National Geospatial- the following: paragraph: Intelligence Agency shall also develop a sys- ‘‘(7) develop 15-year projections and assess- ‘‘(2) Any report relating to a covert action tem to facilitate the analysis, dissemination, ments of the needs of the intelligence com- that is submitted to the congressional intel- and incorporation of likenesses, videos, or munity to ensure a robust federal scientific ligence committees for the purposes of para- presentations produced by ground-based and engineering workforce and the means to graph (1) shall be in writing, and shall con- platforms, including handheld or clandestine recruit such a workforce through integrated tain the following: photography taken by or on behalf of human scholarships across the intelligence commu- ‘‘(A) A concise statement of any facts per- intelligence collection organizations or nity, including research grants and coopera- tinent to such report. available as open source information into tive work-study programs; ‘‘(B) An explanation of the significance of the National System for Geospatial-Intel- AMENDMENT NO. 856 the covert action covered by such report.’’. ligence. (2) NOTICE ON INFORMATION NOT DIS- (Purpose: To strike the requirement for a AMENDMENT NO. 862 study on the disclosure of additional intel- CLOSED.—Subsection (c) of such section is (Purpose: To change the name of the Na- ligence information) amended by adding at the end the following new paragraph: tional Space Intelligence Center to the Na- Beginning on page 11, strike line 18 and all tional Space Intelligence Office) that follows through page 12, line 20. ‘‘(5) If the Director of National Intelligence or the head of a department, agency, or Strike section 410 and insert the following: AMENDMENT NO. 858 other entity of the United States Govern- SEC. 410. NATIONAL SPACE INTELLIGENCE OF- (Purpose: To improve the notification of ment does not provide information required FICE. Congress regarding intelligence activities by subsection (b) in full or to all the mem- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.— of the United States Government) bers of the congressional intelligence com- (1) IN GENERAL.—Title I of the National Se- Strike section 304 and insert the following: mittees, and requests that such information curity Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 401 et seq.) is SEC. 304. IMPROVEMENT OF NOTIFICATION OF not be so provided, the Director shall, in a amended by adding after section 119B the fol- CONGRESS REGARDING INTEL- timely fashion, notify such committees of lowing new section: LIGENCE ACTIVITIES OF THE the determination not to provide such infor- ‘‘NATIONAL SPACE INTELLIGENCE OFFICE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT. mation in full or to all members of such (a) CLARIFICATION OF DEFINITION OF CON- ‘‘SEC. 119C. (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is committees. Such notice shall be submitted GRESSIONAL INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEES TO IN- established within the Office of the Director in writing in a classified form, include a CLUDE ALL MEMBERS OF COMMITTEES.—Sec- of National Intelligence a National Space In- statement of the reasons for such determination 3(7) of the National Security Act of 1947 telligence Office. tion and a description that provides the (50 U.S.C. 401a(7)) is amended— ‘‘(b) DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL SPACE INTEL- main features of the covert action covered (1) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘, and LIGENCE OFFICE.—The National Intelligence by such determination, and contain no re- includes each member of the Select Com- Officer for Science and Technology, or a suc- striction on access to this notice by all mem- mittee’’ before the semicolon; and cessor position designated by the Director of bers of the committee.’’. (2) in subparagraph (B), by inserting ‘‘, and National Intelligence, shall act as the Direc- (3) MODIFICATION OF NATURE OF CHANGE OF includes each member of the Permanent Se- tor of the National Space Intelligence Office. COVERT ACTION TRIGGERING NOTICE REQUIRE- lect Committee’’ before the period. ‘‘(c) MISSIONS.—The National Space Intel- MENTS.—Subsection (d) of such section is (b) NOTICE ON INFORMATION NOT DIS- ligence Office shall have the following mis- amended by striking ‘‘significant’’ the first CLOSED.— sions: place it appears. (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 502 of such Act (50 ‘‘(1) To coordinate and provide policy di- U.S.C. 413a) is amended— AMENDMENT NO. 859 rection for the management of space-related (A) by redesignating subsections (b) and (c) (Purpose: To strike the pilot program on dis- intelligence assets. as subsections (c) and (d), respectively; and closure of records under the Privacy Act ‘‘(2) To prioritize collection activities con- (B) by inserting after subsection (a) the relating to certain intelligence activities) sistent with the National Intelligence Col- lection Priorities framework, or a successor following new subsection (b): Strike section 310. ‘‘(b) NOTICE ON INFORMATION NOT DIS- framework or other document designated by CLOSED.—(1) If the Director of National Intel- AMENDMENT NO. 860, AS MODIFIED the Director of National Intelligence. ligence or the head of a department, agency, Beginning on page 29, strike line 24 and all ‘‘(3) To provide policy direction for pro- or other entity of the United States Govern- that follows through page 31, line 15, and in- grams designed to ensure a sufficient cadre ment does not provide information required sert the following: of government and nongovernment personnel by subsection (a) in full or to all the mem- (1) REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later than 60 in fields relating to space intelligence, in- bers of the congressional intelligence com- days after the date of the enactment of this cluding programs to support education, re- mittees, and requests that such information Act, the Director of National Intelligence cruitment, hiring, training, and retention of not be so provided, the Director shall, in a shall provide to the members of the Select qualified personnel. timely fashion, notify such committees of Committee on Intelligence of the Senate and ‘‘(4) To evaluate independent analytic as- the determination not to provide such infor- the Permanent Select Committee on Intel- sessments of threats to classified United mation in full or to all members of such ligence of the House of Representatives a re- States space intelligence systems through- committees. Such notice shall be submitted port on any clandestine prison or detention out all phases of the development, acquisi- in writing in a classified form, include a facility currently or formerly operated by tion, and operation of such systems. statement of the reasons for such determina- the United States Government for individ- ‘‘(d) ACCESS TO INFORMATION.—The Direc- tion and a description that provides the uals captured in the global war on terrorism. tor of National Intelligence shall ensure that main features of the intelligence activities (2) ELEMENTS.—The report required by the National Space Intelligence Office has covered by such determination, and contain paragraph (1) shall include the following: access to all national intelligence informa- no restriction on access to this notice by all (A) The date each prison or facility became tion (as appropriate), and such other infor- members of the committee. operational, and if applicable, the date on mation (as appropriate and practical), nec- ‘‘(2) Nothing in this subsection shall be which each prison or facility ceased its oper- essary for the Office to carry out the mis- construed as authorizing less than full and ations. sions of the Office under subsection (c).

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.024 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4562 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 ‘‘(e) SEPARATE BUDGET ACCOUNT.—The Di- ‘‘(B) exercise, by reason of the officer’s sta- on the bill. As indicated, we have some rector of National Intelligence shall include tus as a commissioned officer, any super- drafting problems we are working out, in the National Intelligence Program budget vision or control with respect to any of the but we also have high hopes of being a separate line item for the National Space military or civilian personnel of the Depart- able to adopt a number of the amend- Intelligence Office.’’. ment of Defense except as otherwise author- (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of ized by law. ments that have been filed on both contents for that Act is amended by insert- ‘‘(3) Except as provided in subparagraph sides. Some of them may require modi- ing after the item relating to section 119B (A) or (B) of paragraph (2), the service, or the fication. the following new item: administrative performance of duties, de- Mr. President, as we get ready to go ‘‘Sec. 119C. National Space Intelligence Of- scribed in that paragraph by an officer de- to our policy lunches, I once again ask fice.’’. scribed in that paragraph shall not affect the that Members with amendments come (b) REPORT ON ORGANIZATION OF OFFICE.— status, position, rank, or grade of such offi- forward and let us know what the (1) REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later than 180 cer in the Armed Forces, or any emolument, amendments are. We ask that they be days after the date of the enactment of this perquisite, right, privilege, or benefit incident to or arising out of such status, posi- germane, because nongermane amend- Act, the Director of the National Space In- ments, even if they are passed, will not telligence Office shall submit to the Select tion, rank, or grade. Committee on Intelligence of the Senate and ‘‘(4) A commissioned officer described in survive conference. We want to keep the Permanent Select Committee on Intel- paragraph (2), while serving, or continuing in the proceedings moving forward, so we ligence of the House of Representatives a re- the administrative performance of duties, as ask that amendments be germane. We port on the organizational structure of the described in that paragraph and while re- ask Members to work with us so we can National Space Intelligence Office estab- maining on active duty, shall continue to re- accept them or offer a compromise to ceive military pay and allowances. Funds lished by section 119C of the National Secu- make them acceptable. We want to do rity Act of 1947 (as added by subsection (a)). from which such pay and allowances are paid shall be reimbursed from funds available to that. Otherwise, when votes are need- (2) ELEMENTS.—The report required by ed, and I am sure they will be, we ask paragraph (1) shall include the following: the Director of the Central Intelligence (A) The proposed organizational structure Agency.’’. that a reasonable time period be agreed of the National Space Intelligence Office. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Paragraph on by both sides, the proponent of the (B) An identification of key participants in (2) of subsection (e) of such section, as redes- amendment and the opponent, so we the Office. ignated by subsection (a)(1) of this section, is may get some orderly procedure so our (C) A strategic plan for the Office during further amended by striking ‘‘subsection (d)’’ colleagues will know how we are mov- and inserting ‘‘subsection (f)’’. the five-year period beginning on the date of ing forward and we can show progress. the report. (c) EXECUTIVE SCHEDULE LEVEL III.—Sec- tion 5314 of title 5, United States Code, is I thank the Chair and I yield the AMENDMENT NO. 86 amended by adding at the end the following floor. (Purpose: To modify the requirements renew item: f lated to the Director and Deputy Director ‘‘Deputy Director of the Central Intel- of the Central Intelligence Agency) ligence Agency.’’. RECESS Strike section 421 and insert the following: (d) ROLE OF DNI IN APPOINTMENT.—Section The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under SEC. 421. DIRECTOR AND DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF 106(b)(2) of the National Security Act of 1947 the previous order, the Senate stands THE CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGEN- (50 U.S.C. 403–6(b)(2)) is amended by adding in recess until 2:15 p.m. CY. at the end the fallowing new subparagraph: (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF POSITION OF DEPUTY ‘‘(J) The Deputy Director of the Central In- Thereupon, the Senate, at 12:40 p.m., DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGEN- telligence Agency.’’. recessed until 2:15 p.m., and reassem- CY.—Subsection (a) of section 104A of the Na- (e) EFFECTIVE DATE AND APPLICABILITY.— bled when called to order by the Pre- tional Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 403–4a) The amendments made by this section shall siding Officer (Mr. CARPER). is amended— take effect on the date of the enactment of f (1) by redesignating subsections (b), (c), this Act and shall apply upon the earlier of— (d), (e), (f), and (g) as subsections (d), (e), (f), (1) the date of the nomination by the Presi- INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION (g), (h), and (i) respectively; and dent of an individual to serve as Deputy Di- ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007—Con- (2) by inserting after subsection (a) the fol- rector of the Central Intelligence Agency, tinued lowing new subsections (b) and (c): except that the individual administratively ‘‘(b) DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTEL- performing the duties of the Deputy Director The PRESIDING OFFICER. The LIGENCE AGENCY.—(1) There is a Deputy Di- pending business is the Cornyn amend- rector of the Central Intelligence Agency of the Central Intelligence Agency as of the date of the enactment of this Act may con- ment. Who seeks recognition? who shall be appointed by the President, by The Senator from Tennessee is recog- and with the advice and consent of the Sen- tinue to perform such duties after such date ate. of nomination and until the individual ap- nized. ‘‘(2) The Deputy Director of the Central In- pointed to the position of Deputy Director of Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I telligence Agency shall assist the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, by and with ask unanimous consent to speak as in the Central Intelligence Agency in carrying the advice and consent of the Senate, as- morning business for 5 minutes. out the duties and responsibilities of the Di- sumes the duties of such position; or Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I wonder if rector. (2) the date of the cessation of the perform- ‘‘(3) The Deputy Director of the Central In- ance of the duties of Deputy Director of the my colleague will first allow me to lay telligence Agency shall act for, and exercise Central Intelligence Agency by the indi- down an amendment but not speak to the powers of, the Director of the Central In- vidual administratively performing such du- it. telligence Agency during the absence or dis- ties as of the date of the enactment of this Mr. ALEXANDER. Yes. ability of the Director of the Central Intel- Act. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ligence Agency or during a vacancy in the AMENDMENT NO. 872, AS MODIFIED ator from Arizona is recognized. position of Director of the Central Intel- On page 28, line 19, strike ‘‘legal opinions’’ Mr. KYL. Mr. President, is there a ligence Agency. ‘‘(c) MILITARY STATUS OF DIRECTOR OF THE and insert ‘‘legal justifications’’. pending amendment? CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY AND DEPUTY Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I move to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Yes, it is DIRECTOR OF CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGEN- reconsider the vote. the Cornyn amendment. CY.—(1) Not more than one of the individuals Mr. ROCKEFELLER. I move to lay Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I ask unani- serving in the positions specified in sub- that motion on the table. mous consent to lay aside the pending section (a) and (b) may be a commissioned The motion to lay on the table was amendment. officer of the Armed Forces in active status. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ‘‘(2) A commissioned officer of the Armed agreed to. Forces who is serving as the Director or Dep- Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I objection, it is so ordered. uty Director of the Central Intelligence also ask unanimous consent that it be AMENDMENT NO. 866 TO AMENDMENT NO. 849 Agency or is engaged in administrative per- in order for any of the cleared amend- Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I simply ask formance of the duties of Director or Deputy ments to be modified to comport to the unanimous consent to call up as a sec- Director of the Central Intelligence Agency substitute. ond-degree amendment to the pending shall not, while continuing in such service, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there amendment my amendment No. 866. or in the administrative performance of such duties— objection? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ‘‘(A) be subject to supervision or control by Without objection, it is so ordered. clerk will report. the Secretary of Defense or by any officer or Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I thank the The assistant legislative clerk read employee of the Department of Defense; or Chairman. We are moving forward now as follows:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:52 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.003 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4563 The Senator from Arizona [Mr. KYL] pro- come U.S. citizens every year. Each of the United States of America, but it is poses an amendment numbered 866 to amend- us has attended ceremonies where this not our greatest strength. Our greatest ment No. 849. happens. This is at the very heart of strength is that we have been able to Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I ask unani- our Nation. This is why we call the take all of this diversity and mold it mous consent that reading of the United States of America the Nation of into one country, not because of race amendment be dispensed with. immigrants. What is so important or ethnicity but because of a belief in a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without about them is that no one becomes an few principles and our common lan- objection, it is so ordered. American based upon his or her race or guage. We are able to say we are proud The amendment is as follows: where their grandparents came from. of where we came from, but we are (Purpose: To protect classified information) In fact, that is constitutionally imper- prouder to be Americans. At the end, add the following: missible. One becomes an American by I salute the U.S. Citizenship and Im- SEC. lll. UNLAWFUL DISCLOSURE OF CLASSI- a remarkable oath of allegiance to this migration Services for this document, FIED REPORTS BY ENTRUSTED PER- country as opposed to some other coun- and the National Endowment for the SONS. try, and then demonstrating good char- Humanities for its hard work on it. The (a) IN GENERAL.—It shall be unlawful for acter, being here for 5 years, and show- Citizen’s Almanac includes the patri- any person who is an employee or member of ing that you know our common lan- the Senate or House of Representatives, or otic anthems and symbols of the who is entrusted with or has lawful posses- guage, English, and an understanding United States, Presidential and histor- sion of, access to, or control over any classi- of the U.S. history. ical speeches from Presidents Lincoln, fied information contained in a report sub- The importance of that was brought Washington, Roosevelt, Kennedy and mitted to Congress under this Act, the USA home to me last week when I was vis- Reagan, and Martin Luther King, Jr., PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization iting in Nashville. About 30 percent of and landmark decisions of the Supreme Act of 2005 (Public Law 109–177; 120 Stat. 192), all of the students in Tennessee who Court. It ought to be in every Senate the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Pre- have limited English proficiency hap- vention Act of 2004 (Public Law 108–458; 118 office. It will be in every home of every pen to be in the Nashville School Dis- new citizen. It will be a good document Stat. 3638), or an amendment made by any trict, and Pedro Garcia, the super- such Act to— to be in every school in America. (1) knowingly and willfully communicate, intendent of schools, was telling me I yield the floor. that many of those students who are furnish, transmit, or otherwise makes avail- EXHIBIT 1 able such information to an unauthorized not now American citizens want to [From the U.S. Department of Homeland Se- person; make sure they learn enough U.S. his- curity, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (2) publish such information; or tory in middle school and high school Services, Jan. 22, 2007] (3) use such information in any manner so they can pass the citizenship test prejudicial to the safety or interest of the and become Americans when they grad- USCIS NATURALIZATION TEST REDESIGN United States or for the benefit of any for- uate. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services eign government to the detriment of the Today, the U.S. Citizenship and Im- (USCIS) is revising the naturalization test to United States. migration Services, USCIS, is formally create a test and testing process that is (b) PENALTY.—Any person who violates standardized, fair and meaningful. A stand- subsection (a) shall be fined under title 18, releasing the Citizen’s Almanac. I call ardized and fair naturalization test will in- United States Code, imprisoned not more it to the attention of our colleagues. It clude uniform testing protocols and proce- than 10 years, or both. is a collection of American symbols of dures nationwide to ensure that there is no (c) INFORMATION TO CONGRESS.—Nothing in freedom and liberty to be given to variation between offices. A meaningful test this section shall prohibit the furnishing, every newly sworn citizen, and that will encourage civic learning and patriotism upon lawful demand, of information to any would be 650,000 this year. It is built among prospective citizens. A revised test, regularly constituted committee of the Sen- upon action that was taken earlier this with an emphasis on the fundamental con- ate or House of Representatives, or joint year by the USCIS to create a new and cepts of American democracy and the rights committee thereof. and responsibilities of citizenship, will help (d) DEFINITIONS.—As used in this section— better citizenship test. At the conclusion of my remarks, I to encourage citizenship applicants to learn (1) the term ‘‘classified information’’ and identify with the basic values that we all means information which, at the time of a ask unanimous consent that a fact share as Americans. violation of this section, is determined to be sheet about the naturalization test re- BACKGROUND Confidential, Secret, or Top Secret pursuant design be printed in the RECORD. to Executive Order 12958, or any successor The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without During the past 10 years, the standardiza- thereto; and objection, it is so ordered. tion and meaningfulness of the naturaliza- (2) the term ‘‘unauthorized person’’ means (See exhibit 1.) tion test have come under scrutiny. Various any person who does not have authority or studies found that the exam lacked standard- Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, the ized content, instruments, protocols or scor- permission to have access to the classified purpose of that test is to simply give information under the provisions of a stating system. Inconsistencies were reported in new meaning to what it means to be an the way the exams were administered na- ute, Executive Order, regulation, or directive American. That oath of allegiance of the head of any department or agency who tionwide, and there was no assessment of is empowered to classify information. which these 650,000 new citizens will whether applicants had a meaningful undertake is basically the same oath that standing of U.S. history and government. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- George Washington and his officers To address these concerns, Immigration ator from Tennessee is now recognized. took at Valley Forge in 1778. It has a and Naturalization Services (INS) launched a USCIS NATURALIZATION TEST REDESIGN great deal of meaning. Other countries test redesign project in 2000 that has included technical assistance from several test Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I in the world have not had the experi- thank my colleagues for giving me 5 development contractors, the National Acad- ence we have had helping people from emy of Sciences, a panel of history and U.S. minutes. around the world become Americans. government scholars, and a panel of English As my late friend Alex Haley, the au- The English, the French, the Japanese, as a Second Language (ESL) experts. In addi- thor of ‘‘Roots,’’ said, ‘‘Find the good and the Germans are struggling with tion, USCIS has sought input from a variety and praise it.’’ We talk an awful lot that right now, as people move in who of stakeholders, including immigrant advo- about illegal immigration here in the are not Japanese, German, English, or cacy groups, citizenship instructors, ESL Senate. The majority and minority French. It is hard for them to become teachers, and USCIS District Adjudications leaders have both said that before Me- part of that national identity. We have Officers. morial Day, we will bring up immigra- not had that problem. We welcome ev- Changes to the naturalization test tion reform in a comprehensive man- eryone based upon their understanding The reading and writing portions of the ner. I hope very much that we do that. of the symbols and documents rep- pilot naturalization exam is similar to the That is our responsibility. It is too big resented in the Citizen’s Almanac. So if current test except that the new exam con- a problem for one party to solve, and we don’t teach about these things in tains more civics-based vocabulary. Appli- we should work on it in a bipartisan cants will still have up to three chances to our schools or immigrants don’t learn read and write a sentence correctly in way. it in the naturalization process, then English. In the writing section of the test, Today, I want to talk about legal im- we are not a united country. the testing officer will dictate a sentence migration as opposed to illegal immi- As I have said many times on this and ask the applicant to write everything gration. About 650,000 individuals be- floor, diversity is a great strength of the officer reads. During the reading portion

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:46 Apr 17, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.027 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4564 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 of the test, the test officer will ask the appli- new test is fully implemented nationwide in USCIS will continue to meet with local im- cant to read each word out loud in that sen- 2008. During this pilot, USCIS will carefully migrant service providers, advocates, and tence. analyze the new test questions to make cer- ESL teachers in pilot sites to gain their sup- The proposed format for the new civics tain that the questions are fair and work as port so that they can encourage immigrants exam will still require applicants to cor- they were intended. USCIS will also collect to participate in their government and make rectly answer six out of 10 questions chosen information about testing procedures, to in- this a successful pilot. from a master list of 100 civics questions and clude feedback from DAOs, to help refine the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- answers. The difference is that the new sen- testing procedures and facilitate the smooth ator from California is recognized. tences will now focus on civics and history transition to the new naturalization exam. Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I topics, rather than the general range of top- Q. What will USCIS pilot? ask unanimous consent that Senator ics on the current test. USCIS has placed A. USCIS plans to pilot 142 U.S. history these questions and answers, along with a and government questions and approxi- FEINGOLD and I be permitted to speak study guide on the Internet and elsewhere in mately 36 reading and 36 writing items. The for up to 10 minutes as in morning the public domain to help applicants pre- topic areas include principals of American business. pare. democracy, system of government, rule of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Q. What are the new civics questions and law, rights and responsibilities, American objection, it is so ordered. English vocabulary list items? History, and geography. About half of the SENATE CAMPAIGN DISCLOSURE PARITY ACT A. USCIS posted has made the English vo- questions include rephrased versions of ques- Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I cabulary lists available at: www.uscis.gov/ tions on the current test. All citizenship ap- rise in my capacity as chairman of the natzpilot. plicants in the 10 pilot areas who are sched- Rules Committee to speak about a bill Q. How were the questions developed? uled for their naturalization test during the A. English Items. A panel of English as a pilot will receive advance copies of the civics that the Committee heard and passed Second Language (ESL) and other test devel- questions and the two lists of vocabulary for out unanimously a short time ago. opment experts chosen by the association of self-study. USCIS has also posted these That bill is entitled the ‘‘Senate Cam- Teachers of English to Speakers of Other study materials on the web at: http:// paign Disclosure Parity Act.’’ It is Languages (TESOL) developed the English www.uscis.gov/natzpilot. The actual test will sponsored by Senators FEINGOLD, COCH- items. The TESOL panel established an become available to the public. RAN, and 32 other Senators. It would re- English language level for the test con- Q. How were the questions selected? quire that Senate campaign finance re- sistent with Department of Education re- A. The TESOL panel assisted USCIS in ports be filed electronically rather porting levels for adult basic education. drafting and reviewing civics questions using Civics Items. The TESOL panel also as- best practices and conventional sample tech- than in paper format. That is all the sisted in drafting and reviewing civics ques- niques, such as regression analysis, cur- bill does. tions using a content framework identified rently used in private industry. Currently, House candidates, Presi- by the Office of Citizenship from a review of Q. Where are the test sites? dential candidates, political action government authorized civics and citizenship A. The pilot program will run in 10 cities committees, and party committees are texts, the U.S. Department of Education’s that were randomly selected based on citi- all required to file electronically, and National Standards for Civics and Govern- zenship application volume. The ten pilot they do. But Senators, Senate can- ment, the current naturalization test, and sites are: Albany, NY, Boston, MA; Charles- didates, authorized campaign commit- the study guide developed by a panel of ex- ton, S.C.; Denver; EL Paso, Texas; Kansas tees, and the Democratic and Repub- perts assembled by USCIS in 2004. City, Mo.; Miami; San Antonio, Texas; Tuc- Q. How are the new questions an improve- son, Ariz.; and Yakima, Wash. lican Senate campaign committees are ment over the old questions? Q. How were the 10 pilot cities selected? exempt. As a result, we have a very A. By weighing the questions on the new A. To capture the diversity of USCIS of- cumbersome system in which paper civics and U.S. history test we will ensure fices and applicants, USCIS randomly se- copies of disclosure reports are filed that all test forms are at the same cognitive lected a representative sample of 10 districts with the Senate Office of Public and language level. By creating test forms at by geographic region and the volume of ap- Records, which then scans them, the same level of difficulty, we are ensuring plications that were processed in each office makes an electronic copy of them, and to conduct the pilot. This method will help that an applicant who goes for an interview sends that copy to the FEC on a dedi- in one city of the country has the same insure that the final results can be made chance of passing the test as in any other with equal accuracy and statistical weight. cated communications line. The FEC city. The English vocabulary on the new test Q. What is the purpose of the pilot? then prints the report and sends it to a is also fairer because it is targeted at a lan- A. A pilot is a crucial component of any vendor in Fredericksburg, VA, where guage level consistent with the Department test design process. A pilot ensures that the the information is keyed in by hand of Education reporting standards for the draft test items, scoring rubrics, and admin- and transferred back to the FEC data- level required by Section 312 of the Immigra- istration processes are appropriate, not too base. All of this costs about $250,000, tion and Nationality Act. District Adjudica- difficult, and elicit the responses we expect. and it is a waste of money, a waste of tion Officers are being trained to administer Q. How will USCIS conduct the pilot? A. USCIS must administer about 6,000 tests staff, and a waste of time. and score the naturalization tests in the At our hearing on February 14 on this same way nationwide to ensure uniform ad- to achieve a representative and significant ministration of the test. study. bill—and this bill is just on this point— Applicants will receive a study guide on Pilots will begin in February 2007 and will it was clear that there was no public the new civics and U.S. history questions so last between two to four months. opposition to this proposal, only public they can deepen their knowledge and under- USCIS trained the test administrators on support. The bill has been hotlined. It standing of our Nation as they prepare for the new exam process. has cleared on the Democratic side. It the exam. The new items will focus less on USCIS will mail a notification to all applicants scheduled for an interview at the pilot has not cleared on the Republican side. redundant and trivial questions based on Now, again, this bill says we will just rote memorization and will focus on con- sites during the pilot period informing them that they have the opportunity to partici- allow us to electronically file our quar- cepts, such as the rights and responsibilities terly reports. I just electronically filed of citizenship. Some items on the current pate in the national pilot program. test fit those needs and required little con- Applicants will also receive a letter ex- my quarterly reports. I then gave a tent change, so several items from the cur- plaining the pilot and study questions. paper copy to the Secretary of the Sen- Applicants who take the pilot but do not rent test will appear on the revised test. The ate. This is exactly the type of good- pass one or more parts will have the oppor- range of acceptable answers to each question government law the Senate can adopt tunity to take the current test or part of the will also increase so that applicants can current test immediately during the inter- as a stand-alone measure. learn more about a topic and select from a view, thus giving them an additional oppor- I hope we move this legislation wider range of acceptable answers. And fi- tunity to pass the naturalization test. today, without burdening it with other nally, the reading and writing test will pro- Many of the questions on the pilot test and items. It is really long past time to vide a tool for civic learning because the vo- the current test cover the same subjects, so cabulary list is civics-based. bring the Senate into the modern era. additional preparation is expected to be Q. How will the interview process change So I hope my colleagues on both sides minimal. for applicants? of the aisle will join me in ensuring Once pilot results have been analyzed, pi- A. The interview process will not change. timely access and disclosure of Senate loted items will be revised accordingly. PILOT PROGRAM Q. Must applicants participate in the pilot? finance campaign activities and bring As part of the test redesign, USCIS will A. No. Applicants will have the choice to that information before the public. conduct a pilot program in ten cities begin- decline participation in the pilot test. For I will now yield to the author of the ning in February 2007 to ensure the agency those who decline, they will be given the cur- legislation, the distinguished Senator has all the information necessary before the rent test. from Wisconsin.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.006 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4565 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- strong support for it from across the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ator from Wisconsin is recognized. political spectrum, and cosponsorship objection, it is so ordered. Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I from many Republican Senators, and I ACTION ON AMENDMENTS NOS. 856 AND 859 thank the Senator from California. I especially thank Senator COCHRAN for VITIATED am very pleased to be here with her being the main author along with me. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I today. I sincerely thank the Senator I sincerely hope there won’t be an ob- ask unanimous consent that the pre- from California for moving the Senate jection on the Republican side. It vious action on amendments Nos. 856 Campaign Disclosure Parity Act would be wrong to hold this bill up as and 859 be vitiated. through the Rules Committee so that some kind of bargaining chip. It is time The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without we are now in a position to finally pass for the Senate to pass this bill, and I objection, it is so ordered. this legislation. As the Senator from hope that can be done today. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. I yield the California indicated, at last count, we Once again, I thank the Senator from floor, and I suggest the absence of a now have 35 cosponsors for S. 223, 20 California, and I yield the floor. quorum. Democrats and 15 Republicans, and no Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, if I The PRESIDING OFFICER. The known opposition. may, I will ask a question of the Sen- clerk will call the roll. The bill fixes the anomaly in the ator from Wisconsin. First, I thank The assistant legislative clerk pro- election laws that makes it nearly im- him for his leadership on this issue. ceeded to call the roll. possible for the public to get timely ac- If I can ask the Senator, is there any The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. cess to Senate campaign finance re- item in this bill other than electronic BROWN). The Senator from West Vir- ports, even though most other reports filing? ginia is recognized. are available on the Internet within 24 Mr. FEINGOLD. No, there is not. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I hours of their filing with the Federal Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Doesn’t this bill ask unanimous consent that the order Election Commission, FEC. This bill simply enable Members of the Senate, for the quorum call be rescinded. will finally bring Senate campaigns just as every other political office does, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without into the 21st century by amending the to file directly electronically their fi- objection, it is so ordered. section of the election laws dealing nance reports? Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I with electronic filing to require reports Mr. FEINGOLD. That is all it does. ask unanimous consent that at 5:45 Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I thank the Sen- filed with the Secretary of the Senate p.m. today, the motion to proceed to ator. to be filed electronically and forwarded the motion to reconsider be agreed to, Mr. President, this is such a simple, to the FEC within 24 hours. the motion to reconsider be agreed to, direct bill with respect to trans- This step is long overdue. There is no and without further interning action, parency. It is an idea whose time has excuse for keeping our own campaign the Senate proceed to vote on the mo- long come. It happens everywhere else finance information inaccessible to the tion to invoke cloture on S. 372, the In- except for the Senate, Senate commit- public when the information filed by telligence authorization bill; further, tees, and the Senate campaign commit- House and Presidential candidates, that Members have until 4:45 p.m. to tees. The time is long overdue to pass PACs, parties, and even 527 organiza- file any second-degree amendments. this bill. It is such a simple, good-gov- tions is readily available almost imme- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ernment issue. It is very hard for me to diately. The Washington Post has objection, it is so ordered. understand who could oppose this and called the outmoded Senate campaign Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I what their reason for opposing it could reporting system ‘‘obviously unjusti- should say this has been cleared on be. I hope that if there is opposition in fied,’’ and Roll Call has called it ‘‘inde- both sides. this Senate, the Member would be will- fensible.’’ I couldn’t agree more. Mr. President, I suggest the absence The current system means that the ing to come down to the floor and ex- of a quorum. FEC’s detailed coding, which allows press why they would oppose this bill. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The We have the solid support of the en- the press and the public to do more so- clerk will call the roll. tire Rules Committee. This bill was phisticated searches and analysis, is The assistant legislative clerk pro- easy to pass out of committee. It was completed over a week later for Senate ceeded to call the roll. easy to hotline on the Democratic side, reports than for House reports. It The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- and it should be easy to pass by unani- means that the final disclosure reports ator from Iowa is recognized. mous consent. covering the first 2 weeks of October Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- are often not available for detailed unanimous consent that the order for sent that the Senate proceed to the im- scrutiny until after the election. That the quorum call be rescinded. mediate consideration of Calendar No. is scandalous and there is no good rea- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without 96, S. 223, a bill to require Senate can- son for it. objection, it is so ordered. didates to file designations, state- Let me just say that I know that the Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask ments, and reports in electronic forms; election laws have a big impact on to speak as in morning business for that the committee-reported amend- campaigns and all Senators have a half an hour, although I probably will ment be considered and agreed to; that strong personal stake in vetting not speak that long. the bill, as amended, be read three changes to those laws. I am very famil- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without times, passed; and that the motion to iar with controversial and contested objection, it is so ordered. reconsider be laid upon the table, with campaign finance legislation. This MEDICARE no intervening action. Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, ear- isn’t that kind of bill. This bill is as The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there lier this year I gave a series of state- close to a no-brainer as you can get in objection? this area. Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, on ments on this floor on the Medicare In addition to bipartisan support behalf of a Republican Senator, I ob- prescription drug benefit. Back then, I here in the Senate, major media out- ject. said I was informing my colleagues be- lets have endorsed it, as have bloggers The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- cause in the near future Congress on the left and the right. No one that tion is heard. would consider some fundamental I know of opposes it. And yet, it has Mrs. FEINSTEIN. I yield the floor. changes in how the benefit works. now been nearly 3 and a half years Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I Well, for the entire Senate, the fu- since I first introduced it. That is near- suggest the absence of a quorum. ture is now. Last week the Senate Fi- ly half as long as it took us to pass The PRESIDING OFFICER. The nance Committee marked up legisla- McCain-Feingold. I know McCain-Fein- clerk will call the roll. tion on the so-called prohibition on gold. You might say McCain-Feingold The assistant legislative clerk pro- Government negotiations under the is a friend of mine. This bill is no ceeded to call the roll. Medicare prescription drug benefit. McCain-Feingold. Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I When I gave these four statements dur- As I understand it, this bill has ask unanimous consent that the order ing February, I said it was important cleared the Democratic side. Given the for the quorum call be rescinded. for the public and also for Medicare

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.029 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4566 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 beneficiaries to understand the pro- and Medicare is forced to pay it. That choice, that you could not use plans be- posed changes, and that it was equally is so wrong that it truly boggles the cause plans would not work. You know important to explore the effects these mind. It seems to me, as I see these ar- what. Those very Members of Congress changes would have. guments, there is no embarrassment on are wrong, because in my State there Those reasons still hold true this the part of the naysayers’ part. are 43 plans. Will there always be 43 very day. They are even more impor- Now, it is correct, of course, that the plans? No, I imagine there are some tant now as the Senate gears up for ac- Secretary of Health and Human Serv- that are small, will weed themselves tion on that ill-advised legislation. I ices himself does not negotiate with out, will be bought. These people are will inform my colleagues on this topic drug companies, but it is absolutely ignoring that the Government is not today, tomorrow, and the rest of the not correct to say there are no negotia- actually very good at figuring out what week, if I need to, because I want to tions. That is complete and utter non- it should pay for drugs. They are ignor- make sure everyone understands the sense. It is embarrassingly wrong. ing the fact to carry on with the polit- consequences of this legislation that is Under the Medicare drug benefit, mul- ical scam that they committed against going to change the Medicare Program tiple drug plans compete against each beneficiaries and against the public. and hurt the Medicare Program, a pro- other for the membership of seniors I have a chart I used a month ago gram that is working; that if it ain’t and disabled people covered by Medi- that I want to show again. On it is a broke, don’t fix it. I am willing to talk care. These plans compete to get the quote from the Washington Post, rec- about this issue until I am blue in the lowest prices from manufacturers, for ognizing as well, when it wrote the fol- face. you as a member, because they want to lowing in an editorial, that this is a po- First, everyone should recognize that keep you as a member. litical scam and that governments political opponents of the drug benefit In fact, these plans want to be the don’t do a very good job of negotiating: that we call Part D of Medicare have best negotiators and to offer bene- Governments are notoriously bad at set- tried for 4 years to tear this benefit ficiaries the best possible drug plan ting prices, and the U.S. Government is notoriously bad at setting prices in the medical apart since day one. Day one dates with low premiums, low cost sharing, realm. back to December 2003, when the Presi- and even with additional benefits. They We knew this because of the Govern- dent signed the bill. These naysayers compete to be the plan that bene- ment’s experience paying for drugs cov- feel Government can always manage ficiaries want to join. ered by Medicare Part B. There are not Now, is this something new? No, it is better. They want a Government-run very many drugs covered by Medicare nothing new. This is the same approach benefit program of drugs in Medicare, Part B, but there have been a few and and they want the Federal Government used for health care benefits for every over a long period of time. What did we dictating drug prices, as if the Federal Member of Congress, and 3 million Fed- learn from that experience of Part B Government can dictate drug prices. eral employees, under what we call the Medicare? These happen to be the Thankfully, the naysayers lost when Federal Employee Health Benefit Pro- drugs that are given during a physi- that legislation was being considered. gram. If beneficiaries do not like the cian’s office visit or other drugs such But that has not stopped them from job their plan is doing, you can fire as oral cancer drugs. Medicare pay- constantly whining and carping about your plan. You can leave it, join an- ments for these drugs were based on the drug benefit that is now law. The other plan. You can choose a better what is called the average wholesale naysayers said there would be no pre- plan. Yet, you see, it is actually very price, AWP. It is similar to a sticker scription drug plans. Then when there simple how this works; very simple. price for a car. No one actually pays were plenty of prescription drug plans Harnessing the power of competition that price on the sticker of a car. The coming into the system, approved by among plans gives the Medicare Pro- joke was that average wholesale price the Secretary of HHS to administer to gram beneficiaries and the taxpayers or AWP actually stood for ‘‘ain’t the seniors of America, they said there access to better negotiation than any- what’s paid.’’ Over the past decade, re- were too many plans. thing the Government could do on its ports issued by the inspector general, The naysayers said it was too con- own. by the Department of Justice, and by fusing, that the seniors would not be In fact, there are five negotiators out the Government Accountability Office able to choose plans, even arguing that there that are negotiating in a bigger found that by relying on average there would be a small number of sen- way than even the Federal Government wholesale price, Medicare was vastly iors signing up. can. Can you imagine that, there are overpaying for these drugs. Rec- But the seniors have enrolled. In five negotiators that are bigger than ommendations were made to change fact, 92 percent of the seniors in Amer- the Federal Government that were ne- payments so they reflected actual mar- ica are covered by a prescription drug gotiating this? Competition, then, is ket cost. The Clinton administration plan. And what about their satisfac- the mainstay of our free market econ- tried to make some of these changes tion? Interviews show a great deal of omy. Businesses compete every day in but after pushback from providers, it satisfaction on the part of seniors with almost every sector of our economy to backed off. the plans. produce the products consumers most Congress took another run at this Then the naysayers suggested plans want at a price that consumers pay, issue in 2003 in the Medicare Mod- could change their prices and the drugs which is probably what consumers can ernization Act and was successful. Con- they cover at the drop of a hat, which afford. gress reformed how Medicare pays has not happened. So the naysayers But the naysayers of the drug benefit these drugs under Part B, not Part D. were wrong again. They did all they somehow do not like that. They are un- Medicare now bases its payment for could to taint beneficiaries’ views of comfortable with the free market. many of these drugs on a market-based the benefits before it even got off the They want the Government to run ev- price, a real price, not the average ground. But the naysayers’ biggest erything. They want the Government wholesale price, not the ‘‘ain’t what’s criticism of the drug benefit is that, itself doing the negotiation. They find paid’’ price because it wasn’t paid. This according to them, the Government it hard to believe anyone could do a change, believe it or not, is saving the does not negotiate with drugmakers for better job negotiating than big Govern- taxpayers and beneficiaries, but it took lower prices. ment. years to get that fixed. In all that Now I will show you how silly that is Of course, along the lines, they are time, Medicare and taxpayers paid too and how wrong that is and, more im- ignoring the simple fact that competi- many dollars for drugs, wasted money, portantly, how misleading that is. I tion is working. They are ignoring that billions and billions of dollars wasted. say according to ‘‘them,’’ meaning ac- competition has led to lower pre- So using the Part B tradition, we don’t cording to the naysayers, because they miums, $22 this year instead of $23 last want to make the same mistake. We have gone to great lengths to make it year, instead of $37 when we wrote the don’t want to repeat that experience sound as though nobody is negotiating legislation. under the new Part D of drugs for with drug companies. If you believe the They are ignoring that competition Medicare. naysayers out there, you would think is bringing choices to beneficiaries, We also knew Medicare overpays for that drug companies name their price those who said we would never have a lot of other services and equipment.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.035 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4567 The bookshelves are full of other re- Instead, Congress put competing pri- substitute one supplier’s goods with those of ports from the General Accounting Of- vate plans in charge of negotiating. another. fice, from the inspector general, from These plans and their negotiators have In drug negotiations, that stick is the Medicare Payment Advisory Com- years of experience in this arena. This called a formulary. Plans participating mission, from the Congressional Budg- is what they do for a living. Health and in drug benefits can use that stick. Ex- et Office, and others, about how Medi- Human Services has had very little expert after expert agrees it would be dif- care is paying too much in too many perience and a very dismal track ficult, if not impossible, for the Gov- areas. For example, Medicare overpaid record. ernment, however, to use that stick for durable medical equipment for On this chart, these plans and their under Medicare. In fact, in a November years until the Republican-led Con- negotiators and managers have power- 2 Wall Street Journal opinion piece, gress made changes in the 2005 Deficit ful bargaining clout in the market. Dr. Allen Enthoven, an economist at Reduction Act. In addition, each year They manage the drug coverage for Stanford University, wrote: the Office of Inspector General issues tens of millions of people. There are When the government negotiates, its hands what is called the Red Book, which pre- plans that cover upwards of 50 million are tied because there are few drugs it can sents cost savings recommendations. people—75 million, in one case—far exclude without facing political backlash The books are usually 50 or more pages more than the 41 million Medicare from doctors and the Medicare population, a long, and the recommendations span beneficiaries. Clearly, Medicare bene- very influential group of voters. all aspects of Medicare—hospitals, phy- ficiaries account for a large number of Let’s be honest with each other. sicians, home health care plans, and all prescriptions filled each year, so What do you think would happen in the others. This is more evidence of the some might argue that 41 million bene- Senate if the Center for Medicare Serv- many areas where Medicare doesn’t get ficiaries have more clout than 75 mil- ices, CMS, tried to cut a large drug the best deal. lion nonbeneficiaries, but numbers company headquartered in New Jersey Congress has even created the Medi- alone do not necessarily translate into or North Carolina, for example, com- care Payment Advisory Commission, lower costs. pletely out of Part D because they called MedPAC, to provide advice to As evidence of that, we had all sorts wouldn’t meet the Government’s price Congress on payments for services. of experts come before the Finance demands? Would Senators from those Every year, Congress hears rec- Committee in January on this very States say something such as: Oh, well, ommendations from MedPAC to ad- topic. In response to questions I asked, that is just too bad? Would any of you dress Medicare overpayments, but particularly of Professor Scott Morton say that if it was in your State that a many times it takes years for the Sec- of Yale University, he said it doesn’t manufacturer was being cut out? retary of Health and Human Services matter whether you negotiate on be- Again, let’s be honest with each other. or for the entire Congress to act to half of 1 million or 43 million people; What are we left with then? At the save the taxpayers money. In making what matters is what leverage you January Senate Finance Committee recommendations, MedPAC looks at have and how you use that leverage. hearing, Professor Scott Morton said profit margins, for example. One type I think I ought to emphasize that. It that without a formulary—the ‘‘stick,’’ of provider had been found to have is how you use the leverage. So it is as I refer to it—the Secretary would margins of 17 percent off of Medicare what is done to leverage those num- have about as much negotiating power payments. The Congress has been able bers, then, that leads to lower costs. as you would get by calling a drug to act on many MedPAC recommenda- That leverage comes from the plan maker and saying something such as: I tions, but it can be very hard to accom- being able to say to a drug company would like you to offer a lower price. plish these changes. I remember when I something such as: I can get a better Their answer might be: Why should I? was chairman of the Senate Finance deal on drug A from a different manu- You have to buy my drug, so why Committee over the last 4 years. I re- facturer that has the same clinical ef- would I offer you a lower price? About ceived letters from Members saying fect as your drug B. If you can’t match all you have left after that is: Please, something like: Please don’t cut pay- it or do better, then I am going to won’t you give me a lower price? That ments for this provider group or that leave the table. is not going to get you very far. provider group. Some plans will get a better deal on If my friends on the other side of the In fact, on the Senate floor just be- drug A and put it in their formulary. aisle think this bill is going to achieve fore recess, I fought to prevent this Some plans will get a better deal on real savings for consumers or the Fed- very Senate from freezing a Center for drug B. But many experts agree—and eral Government, they must have some Medicare Services’ rule that would experience suggests—that it would be ideas in mind. I can’t believe my have prevented wasteful spending in difficult for the Government itself, our friends would come to the Senate floor the program we call Medicaid. Is the Government, to walk away from the with a bill that is truly as ‘‘do noth- rule a good thing or a bad thing? We table. There would be enormous pres- ing’’ as CBO describes it. didn’t bother to hold the first hearing sure to cover everything. If it did, the Here is what the Congressional Budg- on the subject. The only thing that negotiating power lies not with the et Office said about S. 3. It would have mattered was that a group of providers Government but with the manufactur- ‘‘a negligible effect on federal spend- complained. Like the Clinton adminis- ers. ing.’’ Another quote: Here is what Professor Scott Morton tration found, letters and complaints Without the authority to establish a for- such as that can make it difficult, in said would happen if someone negoti- mulary, we believe that the Secretary would the very short order, to do anything ating drug prices couldn’t have a for- not be able to encourage the use of par- about a problem, despite the compel- mulary: ticular drugs by Part D beneficiaries, and as ling evidence of overpayments, despite Each manufacturer would know that, fun- a result would lack the leverage to obtain the high profit margins, despite the damentally, Medicare must purchase all significant discounts in his negotiations fact that a proposed change could save products. The Medicare ‘‘negotiator’’ would with drug manufacturers. taxpayers billions of dollars. have no bargaining leverage, and therefore, So let me repeat that other quote: It simply allowing bargaining on its own would Those of us who wrote the Part D not lead to substantially lower prices. would have ‘‘a negligible effect on fed- Medicare drug plan passed 4 years eral spending.’’ At the same hearing, we had another ago—and that was mostly Senator The bill we are considering and vot- witness. That witness was Mr. Edward BAUCUS for the Democrats and me for ing on tomorrow cannot possibly be as Haislmaier, of the Heritage Institute. I the Republicans—were concerned that innocuous or inconsequential as what would like to quote him from his writ- this same kind of dynamic might hap- the Congressional Budget Office said. ten testimony: pen with this Part D program. Political Certainly, there must be creative ideas pressures on Medicare drug benefits [that] volume purchasing encourages man- out there to find savings we have not ufacturer discounting, it is not, in and of would tie the hands of the Secretary of itself, sufficient to extract large discounts. considered. Health and Human Services. If that Manufacturers will only offer substantial Since the Finance Committee’s happens, the programs would be un- discounts if the buyer combines the ‘‘carrot’’ markup of S. 3 the other night, I have manageable and costs would skyrocket. of volume with the ‘‘stick’’ of being able to been considering how a Secretary

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.037 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4568 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 might use his imagination to find sav- cent lower than expected. Because of But that is not the position we are in ings. One of the first places we looked the strong competition between plans, today. Why? Because private competi- at was H.R. 4, the bill that passed the the average premiums for beneficiaries tion works. Senate. is expected to be about $22 in 2007, not I hate to sound like a broken record, H.R. 4 struck the language in the the $39 that had been estimated. but I think the naysayers out there statute that prevents the Secretary Why? Private competition works. need a little repetition therapy. Every- from instituting a price structure for The net cost to the Federal Govern- one has heard the old saying that ‘‘if it reimbursement of covered drugs. Did ment is also lower than expected. In ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’’ It certainly the House strike the ban because they January, the official Medicare actuary applies here, and the evidence shows it. want an imaginative Secretary to use announced that the net 10-year cost of I would like to be the first one to say price controls as part of negotiations? Part D has dropped by $189 billion over that the Medicare drug benefit is not Because all we have heard is they do the original budget window used when perfect. There are improvements that not want price controls. the Medicare Modernization Act was can be made. Congress should look at Last Thursday night, we offered an enacted. That is 2004 to 2013. That is a ways to make it easier for low-income amendment to S. 3 to prevent the Sec- 30-percent drop in the actual cost com- beneficiaries to get the additional as- retary from using a preferred drug list, pared to the projection. sistance they need by reexamining the or PDLs as they are called. A preferred Why? Because private competition low-income subsidy asset test. drug list is just a formulary under a works. We need to look at payments to phar- different name. It is essentially a Gov- The savings are unheard of for a Gov- macies and make some reforms in that ernment-controlled list of drugs that ernment program of any kind. Where area. We need to look at ways we can you can or cannot have. else have you ever heard of a cost simplify the enrollment process. And While I do not think there is a dif- underrun in a Federal program? there are other areas where we can ference between formularies and pre- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- make improvements. ferred drug lists, we have seen the ator’s time has expired. But one area that is working very courts rule that a State can use one in Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, could well is the negotiating power of Medi- Medicaid even though Medicaid bans I please have 4 more minutes? I ask care drug plans. They have shown their the use of formularies. unanimous consent for that additional ability to hold down costs. It is work- So Thursday night, we had an amend- time. ing. ment to prevent the Secretary from The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The pleas from the naysayers to put using preferred drug lists. After all, we objection, it is so ordered. the Government in charge of negoti- do not want the Secretary coming up Mr. GRASSLEY. I wish to emphasize: ating are about politics, not policy. with a list of drugs you can or cannot We have a cost underrun in a Federal These voices have not given up in their take, do we? program. When have you ever heard of misguided quest to score political To my surprise, the Democrats on that? points with the drug benefit. It saddens the committee rejected my amend- You could not get those lower prices me the Democratically controlled Con- ment. So what is going on? Perhaps and lower costs unless the prescription gress has devoted so much time to this they think that having the Govern- drug plans are being strong negotiators issue rather than looking at some of ment establish a preferred drug list is with the drug makers. States are also the improvements we can make in Part one of the imaginative ideas a Sec- saving money in lower contributions, D that I mentioned. retary will be able to use to save better known as ‘‘clawback’’ payments. Why they have put politics ahead of money. State clawback payments are now pro- constructive changes is beyond me. I think this bill is a Trojan Horse. It jected to be $37 billion less over a 10- In January, I had hoped we could put is dressed up as a do-nothing message year period. That is 27 percent lower. politics aside and focus on some of the bill. But before the week is out, we are Just in 2006, States saved $700 million. real improvements we could be making going to look inside that horse and see Why? Because private competition is with the drug benefit. But, sadly, that all the bad that could be waiting to working. is not the case, and that is why I am hurt beneficiaries. We will see what is The plans are negotiating lower here today. bad in this bill that will hurt access prices for drugs. I have said so many Under the drug benefit today, with and choices beneficiaries currently times, for the top 25 drugs used by sen- the plans negotiating with drug mak- have in this Medicare drug benefit pro- iors, the Medicare prescription drug ers and competing with each other, we gram. plans have been able to negotiate have lower drug prices for bene- Maintaining access and choice—ac- prices that on average are 35 percent ficiaries, lower program costs for the cess and choice—is critical because lower than the average cash price at Government—saving the taxpayers beneficiaries have different drug needs. retail pharmacies—35 percent lower. money—and prescription drug choices The way the benefit is structured now Why? Because private competition is for beneficiaries. is that plans can have different working. Private competition works. formularies. Some might get a good Here are some examples: Lipitor is 15 Mr. President, I urge my colleagues price on one drug; another might get a percent lower, Atenolol is 63 percent to oppose S. 3. It is a big government better price on another drug. They can lower, while Fosamax is 30 percent takeover of the private market that is have different formularies, and bene- lower. I could go on down the list. working for the Medicare benefit. ficiaries can have choices that meet Now, when the drug benefit was I yield the floor. their needs. signed into law, we believed it would The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- When Congress finished work on the work and hold down costs. That is cer- ator from Massachusetts is recognized. new drug benefit in 2003, we knew it tainly happening today even more than Mr. KERRY. Mr. President, I ask was an experiment. Nothing like this we expected because private competi- unanimous consent I be permitted to had ever been tried. Here is what we tion works. proceed as in morning business for such learned: Private competition works. It We also said that if it did not work— time as I may consume. has been successful at keeping costs if the negotiating model used for the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without down. The 25 most used drugs by sen- drug benefit did not hold down costs— objection, it is so ordered. iors cost 35 percent less. Plan bids have then Congress would need to reexamine Mr. KERRY. I thank the Chair. come in lower than expected. This things. If costs grew too fast, then the Mr. President, let me just comment. year, they were down 10 percent from whole idea would have to be revisited. I did not come to the floor to speak last year’s bids. Maybe we would have to restrict ac- about the bill specifically. I wish to Premiums are lower than they were cess to drugs. Maybe we would have to speak about the alternative minimum estimated to be. Before 2006, Medicare’s rely more on mail order pharmacies in- tax in a moment. But I cannot help, chief actuary estimated the average stead of liberal access to local retail since I am a member of the com- monthly premium would be $37, but it pharmacies. Maybe more drastic cost- mittee—listening to the ranking mem- was actually $23 in 2006. That is 38 per- cutting measures would be needed. ber talk about Medicare and what the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.039 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4569 impact of allowing Medicare the possi- current system. The reason is very first put in place when Treasury Sec- bility of being able to negotiate might simple: because it is a lot of money out retary Joseph Barr, during his 1 month or might not be—but speak to that for of the pockets of taxpayers into the as the shortest tenured Treasury Sec- a moment, if I can. pockets of the big companies. That is retary in history, told Congress about I think most Americans understand, it, and they are here protecting that. 155 wealthy Americans who had paid no as a matter of common sense, that This is a question of whether we are income tax in 1966. Congress was over- when an entity that represents their simply going to lift the prohibition, let whelmed with mail expressing outrage tax dollars has the ability to go out the Secretary make the judgment. Can that these 155 rich Americans weren’t into the marketplace and negotiate for you go out into the market? Can you pulling their weight. In response, Con- a price, the probability they are going do this without hurting veterans? Can gress passed the first version of the to have saved tax dollars is pretty real, you do it without upsetting the mar- AMT. So the AMT was put in place to if there is a good and decent negotia- ketplace? Can you do it and still have address Americans’ concerns with 155 tion. the kind of resources you want put into of the richest Americans at a time The resistance of the Senator from the research of new drugs and other when 155 represented a large block of Iowa and others is interesting because things? I am confident a Secretary is those who were among the wealthiest it is a resistance that represents the going to make a smart decision. Americans. Urging tax reform, Sec- power of big companies in the coun- It is interesting to see the people who retary Barr coined the phrase ‘‘tax- try—the drug companies—to sort of usually spend the most time arguing in payers’ revolt’’ and that is exactly say: Hey, we kind of like the system this country ‘‘don’t let the government what we are likely to see unless we get the way it is—which we understand be- interfere’’ are the ones who are stand- this right now. cause the profits are enormous. But ing up to let the Government—excuse In 1970, 20,000 taxpayers were affected our job is to represent the taxpayers’ me, not let the Government, force the by the alternative minimum tax. This dollars. Our job is also to use the mar- Government, in effect, to interfere year, about 4 million Americans will ketplace thoughtfully. with the marketplace. Actually, what pay it, and next year that number I do not know what it is that sug- they really are doing is putting in could rise to 23 million Americans. gests, on the one hand, it is legitimate place a prohibition against the Sec- What was originally a small fix at the for the Veterans’ Administration to go retary actually letting the market- edge of our Tax Code has now ballooned out as a Government entity and nego- place work or testing whether the mar- into a massive inconvenience and un- tiate a lower price for the drugs it pur- ketplace could work more effectively. fairness at the center of our Tax Code. chases to distribute to veterans—which In effect, we leave it in a state where Instead of serving its original purpose, we do—but it is not OK for Medicare— the companies are dictating effectively the tax cuts we saw passed into law a which is another Government program what the price is going to be and the few years ago, illogical and deceptive that costs the taxpayers a lot of citizen, as a result, winds up paying an as they were, are winding up targeting money—to be able to go out and nego- unfair burden. the very people we are supposed to be tiate a lower price for seniors. It is il- We are not doing the best job possible helping. The very people we hear most logical. as Government trustees of taxpayer of the rhetoric about—those who need What they do is come in and try to money in taking care of that money help in America and the middle class scare people and say: Well, we have and in representing the interests of our being unfairly taxed—are the very peo- given this special privilege to the Vet- taxpayers. That is what is at stake ple who are being unfairly taxed by erans’ Administration, but if all of a here. Are you prepared to trust the dis- this hidden tax people don’t want to sudden we allow somebody else to ne- cretion of the Secretary to analyze talk about. The fact is the middle class gotiate it, then the veterans are not this, to look at what is best for the has seen an enormous shift in the bur- going to get as good a deal. country, best for the delivery system, den away from the wealthiest Ameri- Well, nobody knows that until you go and make that judgment? All we are cans onto the middle class, the very out into the marketplace. The Vet- doing is lifting an unfair special inter- people the AMT was designed to pro- erans’ Administration and Medicare to- est prohibition to allow a full analysis tect. gether still do not represent the entire of what the better alternative might The AMT is now poised to make a market. You are going to have an in- be. dramatic shift from the wealthy to the credible number of private citizens still ALTERNATIVE MINIMUM TAX middle class. In 2006, taxpayers earning purchasing through private health care Mr. President, as Americans prepared more than half a million dollars will plans or their HMOs or other plans— their taxes this year, millions of fami- pay 47 percent of the tax. By 2010, that private as they are—also. lies in Massachusetts and across the number will drop to 16 percent. We are The marketplace is still going to country found a very unpleasant sur- going to go from 47 percent of the peo- have its capacity to work. This is not prise. Beyond their regular income ple who earn more than half a million such a large block that it represents a taxes, families found another hidden dollars who are supposed to be the tar- complete and total eradication of a income tax, which is the alternative gets of the alternative minimum tax— marketplace, No. 1. No. 2, there are minimum tax. It costs those families that will drop to 16 percent—and the other countries where you have this many thousands of dollars. Most tax- people who are going to pick up the dif- kind of negotiated fee for the service payers are accustomed to computing ference are going to be Americans in being provided which has worked very their income tax liability in the usual the middle class who are struggling effectively. way: adding up their income, making with increasing tuition costs, increas- I think the bottom line is that people whatever deductions they are entitled ing energy costs, increasing health have to remember that this legislation to, subtracting exemptions for their de- care costs, and wages that are either we are talking about does not order the pendents, and then checking their tax frozen or going down. Meanwhile, in- Secretary to do this. It is pretty obvi- bracket to find out how much they vestment income will not be impacted ous under this administration it is not owe. But this year, many of those same by the alternative minimum tax, and going to happen because they do not taxpayers discovered another tax that the top alternative minimum tax rate believe in it. All we are doing is lifting ate up any exemptions and deductions is lower than the top marginal tax the prohibition against the Secretary they might have claimed. It is a hidden rate, which is what people pay on their doing it. So if all the negative things income tax, and it affects the wrong income. the Senator talks about are true, a people. It affects people we never in- So a tax designed to cover or apply to smart Secretary is not going to do tended to affect, and each year that we the wealthiest Americans has become a them because they are negative. don’t address it, it grows worse. solidly middle-class tax. But why would you put in place a This alternative minimum tax is a This tax also punishes certain States prohibition? Why do you specifically tax that made sense once upon a time. in our country more than other States, say: No, the Secretary can’t go out and When it was first enacted in 1969, it had and particularly a State such as mine— negotiate the price. You are stuck with a rationale, but since then, it has be- Massachusetts—but other States in the the status quo. You are stuck with the come bloated and illogical. The tax was Northeast and large industrial States.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.041 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4570 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 In 2007, 24 percent of Massachusetts an awful lot farther in 1970. The movies families—and we simply can’t afford taxpayers, up from about 5 percent last back then cost $1.65. The fact is we not to reform it—we are going to pay year, will be hit by the alternative haven’t adjusted the tax brackets to one way or the other, with the debt minimum tax, so that Massachusetts rise with inflation. that is passed on to our children or will be No. 4 in the rankings of all the Another major problem has been the with taxes passed on from the wealthi- States in the country. I don’t think we alternative minimum tax interaction est to an ever-growing part of the mid- ought to be putting an undue burden on with the Bush tax cuts. This adminis- dle class. We need a bipartisan, fiscally the middle class, and we certainly tration and the Republican Congress responsible, permanent approach, not shouldn’t be putting one unfairly on purposefully allowed the tax system to one that masks the costs of irrespon- certain States while other States are become unbalanced. This was done in sible cuts or becomes a burden for the exempt. order to hide the true cost of the tax middle class, and not one that gives Worse still, the tax penalizes families cuts. Normally, sound tax policy in- more and more families an unpleasant with children because it eliminates any volves changing the alternative min- surprise on tax day. dependent exemptions. So here we are imum tax to reflect changes in regular Mr. President, I yield the floor. talking about family values, but the tax cuts. For example, in 1993, we The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. family values are stripped away for raised rates for both taxes simulta- WHITEHOUSE). The distinguished Sen- those middle-class families because neously. But under this President, in ator from West Virginia is recognized. they lose their exemptions for their de- 2001 and in 2003 and in 2004, we cut the Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I wish to pendents. regular income tax rate without mak- propound a parliamentary inquiry. In 2007, the alternative minimum tax ing corresponding significant changes The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- will impact a family with four children in the AMT. Instead of paying upfront ator will inquire. and an income of $57,000. Married cou- through the regular income tax, this Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, what is the ples will be more than 12 times as like- administration used the AMT to fi- parliamentary situation? ly as singles to face the alternative nance tax cuts for the very people the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- minimum tax in 2010. So those of us AMT was designed to tax. The AMT ate is considering S. 372. who argued strongly about the mar- quietly takes back a portion of the Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I have a riage penalty need to note that the Bush tax cuts by 2010, about 29 percent, parliamentary inquiry further. marriage penalty is, in fact, growing transferring the tax burden from the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- larger as a consequence of the alter- top tax brackets to largely middle- ator will state it. native minimum tax. We wrote the ex- class tax families. Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, what is the emptions that we had specifically to If we had a vote on the floor of the parliamentary situation—I may not help families to get away from that Senate which specifically said: Are you have the floor. May I ask the Chair, problem, and my question is, do we going to tax middle-class families in please tell me what the parliamentary now want to burden them with this ad- order to pay for a wealthy tax cut and situation is. ditional tax. shift the burden by about 29 percent, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- President Bush has acknowledged, at almost everybody here would vote no. ator from West Virginia has been rec- least rhetorically, this is a failed pol- So it is the hidden tax cut that has the ognized by the Chair and now has the icy. There is room for bipartisanship impact. Before the Bush tax cuts, 17 floor. here. Congress and the President need million taxpayers would have been af- Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, if that to work together to address what has fected by the alternative minimum tax were not the case, what would be the become a major structural problem in in 2010, but with the Bush tax cuts, case? our Tax Code. I commend my colleague that number almost doubles to 31 mil- The PRESIDING OFFICER. There is from Massachusetts, Congressman lion. If we let the Bush tax cuts expire no current time agreement. The Senate NEAL, who is working in the House on in 2011, at least the number of AMT is considering S. 372 under no time this issue and showing important lead- taxpayers would drop dramatically. I agreement. ership in order to try to address it, and am confident that will be an important Mr. BYRD. Very well. Mr. President, I look forward to seeing his proposal. debate down the road here. In 2007, a I am not going to speak just now. I In fixing this tax, there are two family with 2 children and an income want to respect the wishes of another major pitfalls we have to avoid. The of $80,000 will see 59 percent of their tax Senator who is on the floor at the mo- first is: Don’t simply repeal the tax cut taken back by the alternative min- ment. In a few minutes, I will want to without paying for it. We can’t afford imum tax. Tom Waits, the 1970s singer speak a bit. As of now, I am going to to do that, and it is clearly not fiscally and songwriter, once said the large take my seat. I will ask the Senator, responsible. Finally, it doesn’t solve print giveth and the small print taketh does he wish to speak at this time? the problem. Second, we need to find a away. Well, the small print, my Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I thank permanent solution. The alternative friends, is the alternative minimum the distinguished Senator from West minimum tax itself was originally a tax, and it is taking away America’s Virginia for his courtesy. If it would small fix for a different tax issue. It is families’ tax savings. not be too great an imposition, I will the accumulation over time of stopgap We need to be honest about the cost speak for a few minutes on the Intel- measures that has brought us to the of our tax cuts. Back in 2001, I tried to ligence bill. That would be very much current problem. So I don’t believe it offer an amendment that exempted all appreciated. serves us well at all to push this issue taxpayers with incomes under $100,000 Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I thank down the road, as has been the practice from the AMT. At that time I warned the distinguished Senator. I am going of the Congress in these last years. that the AMT is encroaching on mid- to sit down and listen. May I ask the We also need to make the tax policy dle-class taxpayers and that the tax Senator this question: How long will he of our country simpler and more cuts would only make things worse. likely speak? straightforward and fill it with a little The fix for the AMT problem at that Mr. WYDEN. Again, I thank the Sen- more common sense and a little less time was estimated to cost $110 billion ator from West Virginia for his cour- special interests. Our tax problem as a over 10 years, money that instead is tesy. I will speak less than 10 minutes. nation was, in fact, made significantly now being paid by middle-class fami- I so appreciate the thoughtfulness of worse by the Bush tax cuts, and the allies. The amendment at that time was the Senator from West Virginia. ternative minimum tax has been used revenue neutral. It offset the cost by Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I thank quietly, more and more, to ask middle- delaying some of the Bush tax cuts. It the distinguished Senator. After he class families to pay the burden of the cut the 39.6 rate down to 37 percent, in- yields the floor, I will seek recognition. wealthiest Americans’ tax cut. stead of 35, but unfortunately, the I understand the rules of the Senate. I We can all agree the main reason this amendment failed. am just stating at this point what I in- tax has grown out of proportion is that I don’t believe we can continue to put tend to do. it wasn’t indexed to inflation. The this problem off. Unless we reform our The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- same money we talk about today went tax system for the sake of middle-class ator from Oregon is recognized.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.042 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4571 Mr. WYDEN. Before he leaves, Sen- But there are people who will gain an we were Senators and that there were ator BYRD has always been so kind to advantage; that is, the American peo- three branches of Government, and we this Senator. I appreciate it. ple. Making the total size of our intel- know and knew then that this is the I wish to take a few moments to talk ligence public is going to increase pub- legislative branch—the first branch of about the critically important Intel- lic accountability and will allow for a Government that is mentioned under ligence authorization bill that is before more informed debate about national the Constitution, and it is sometimes the Senate now. I am disappointed that security. If the national intelligence called ‘‘the people’s branch.’’ That is this legislation has not yet passed be- budget’s overall number is made pub- for good reason. cause it seems to me that Chairman lic, there will be a more informed dis- Now, what is the floor situation? ROCKEFELLER and Vice Chairman BOND cussion about whether money should The PRESIDING OFFICER. S. 372 is have done an awful lot of very good be spent on aircraft carriers or sub- the pending question, and the Senator work in terms of negotiating on this marines or on intelligence gathering. from West Virginia has the floor with legislation and doing it in a bipartisan This debate will only ensure that tax- no present time restriction. fashion. A number of us have felt that payer dollars are used more wisely and Mr. BYRD. Further parliamentary it was critically important that intel- that America will be safer. question: Is time controlled at this mo- ligence, in the days ahead, at a time of Senator BYRD has been very gracious ment? great threat to our country, be an area to give me this time this afternoon. The PRESIDING OFFICER. It is not. Mr. BYRD. I thank the Chair. Mr. that is pursued in a bipartisan way. My There are other provisions that I feel President, I ask unanimous consent view is that Chairman ROCKEFELLER strongly about in this legislation. The that I may speak as in morning busi- and Vice Chairman BOND have really increased penalties, for example, for kept that kind of bipartisan lodestar in ness—in other words, out of order—for outing a covert agent is something I mind as we have conducted our work not to exceed 20 minutes. I don’t expect feel strongly about. After the Dubai throughout this session. That is one of to take that much time. Ports debate, it is clear that there the reasons I have so wanted this legis- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without should be additional resources devoted lation to move forward. objection, it is so ordered. I wish to take a minute to highlight to looking at the intelligence ramifica- Mr. BYRD. I thank the Chair. just one of the provisions that seems to tions of those particular issues. VETO THREATS But my bottom line is, at a time be objectionable to the executive Mr. President, the 110th Congress branch and try to show how, in my when Americans are questioning our will consider legislation this session view, that should not be the case and intelligence agencies’ ability to keep that raises passions and excites par- how the Senate ought to come together them safe, the Congress has a responsi- tisan fervor. It is likely that much of around it and move forward on this bi- bility to provide support. At a time what the Congress considers this year partisan piece of legislation. when the intelligence community is and next will be subject to Presidential There is a provision in the bill the undergoing major reorganization, the veto threats because the President’s Senate is now considering—a provision Congress has a responsibility to pro- political party no longer controls the that I offered—which would make pub- vide guidance. At a time when our al- Congress. lic the total size of our national intel- lies and our citizens are raising serious I was quite surprised recently to hear ligence budget. This provision would questions about detention issues, Con- some Senators take the position that not make public how much the country gress has a responsibility to conduct this body is wasting its time in draft- spends on any particular collection oversight. At a time when Americans ing and passing legislation which the method; it would simply state the U.S. continue to open their morning papers President threatens to veto. Government spends X amount of and read about aggressive new forms of Let me respectfully remind all who money on national intelligence pro- Government surveillance and, in par- listen that the Congress legislates for grams. ticular, the now-disclosed abuse of the the people and has a constitutional ob- This has long received bipartisan national security letters, Congress has ligation—in other words, duty—to act support. The bipartisan 9/11 Commis- a responsibility to demand account- independently from—I say this again, I sion was for it. The former Director of ability. say it respectfully—from the White the CIA, Stansfield Turner, is for it. I Chairman ROCKEFELLER and Vice House. There are three branches, as ev- would like to note that our current Chairman BOND have done a lot of good erybody knows, of Government. This is Secretary of Defense, Secretary Gates, work on this legislation. The distin- a separate but equal branch. I want when he was before the U.S. Senate In- guished occupant of the chair has been Senators to listen. This is a separate telligence Committee—and I will quote involved in those debates, and we are branch, but it is equal. here—said: pleased that he is part of the com- I will repeat myself. As Senators al- From my personal perspective, I don’t have mittee. I hope the Senate will move ex- ready know, there are three separate any problem with releasing the top line of peditiously to move forward on this but equal branches of Government. The the intelligence community budget. legislation. It is an important bill, at a Constitution’s Framers never consid- I am of the view that Secretary critical time for the security of the ered a President to be the final arbiter Gates was right when he said that a American people. of the public good. Whether the ques- number of years ago, and he is right at Again, I express my appreciation to tion relates to military, foreign, or do- this time as well. In my view, to sug- the distinguished Senator from West mestic affairs, a Presidential veto gest that disclosing the total size of Virginia for giving me the opportunity threat is not the last word in what our national intelligence budget would to speak this afternoon. should become the law of our land. cause any harm whatsoever to national I yield the floor. Those decisions are left to the rep- security is ridiculous. It is absolutely The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- resentatives of the people, along with absurd to think that Osama bin Laden ator from West Virginia is recognized. the power over the purse—along with is off in a cave somewhere contem- Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I wish to the power over the purse—and other plating what the overall national intel- thank the distinguished Senator from constitutionally enumerated congres- ligence budget is. It is absurd to sug- Oregon, Mr. WYDEN, for his courtesy, sional powers. gest that Kim Jong Il is somehow sit- and I also want to say that he is one of We hear almost daily a Presidential ting in his office wondering and wor- the immortal 23 Senators who said, in scolding of the Congress concerning the rying, for example, whether the Wyden kind words and respectful words and in supplemental appropriations bill, amendment to the intelligence author- senatorial terms, we won’t go—mean- which is shortly headed for a House- ization is going to pass. It is absurd to ing, we were going to be Senators. We Senate conference. Continued Presi- believe that any terrorist or dictator know what the Constitution says about dential veto threats on the funding for or any other enemy of the United Members of the Senate and the House, the Iraq war represent a stubborn un- States will gain any sort of advantage we were going to be Senators, we were willingness to concede that the Amer- whatever from the public disclosure of going to be respectful, but we were ican people have over time and with the top line of the national intelligence going to vote our way. We were re- considerable debate come to see that budget. spectful of the President, but we knew the Iraq war was a mistake.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.048 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4572 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 In the case of Iraq, it is likely that idential vetoes, if the Congress wishes Hearing no objection, it is so ordered. the people of the United States would to do so. Mr. BYRD. President Bush has said have come to these opinions much ear- The veto on the override is a healthy the bill does not fund the troops, which lier had they not had information with- public opportunity for Members of Con- is false. The Senate bill provides $2 bil- held from them or, in some instances, gress—both Houses—to consider the lion more than the President requested presented to them falsely. Of course, I reasons offered by the President for his for the troops and provides $1.8 billion knew this. veto. Just as the President is held ac- more for veterans health care. I regret Of course, also, it remains the con- countable for his veto, we Senators are this continual barrage of misinforma- stitutional prerogative of the President held accountable for our votes on bills tion coming from the White House just to exercise the veto. I respect that. But that are sent to the President and, if as I regret the intransigence—the in- it also remains the prerogative of the applicable, a subsequent veto override transigence—of a President who will Congress—the other body across the vote. not cool off—and I say this respect- way and this body—it also remains the Members of the Senate and the peo- fully—of a President who will not cool prerogative of the Congress to chal- ple understand that when the President off and stop fearmongering long enough lenge that veto and to assert and de- submits a bill to Congress and then to negotiate a resolution to the dif- fend the will of the people. asks that it be passed without any ferences in the bill’s language. He—the A President’s power to veto is not amendments or conditions—the Presi- President—has been invited to do so in and should not be absolute. Let me re- dent has a right to do that, but we all good faith and yet still the almost peat that. A President’s power to veto know that the President is treating the daily castigation from the White House is not and should not be absolute. If Congress like a subordinate branch ca- continues. the President vetoes a measure under pable of only saying yes or no and I wonder about the effect on the mo- our Constitution, the Congress can never expected to alter a Presidential rale of our brave fighting men and override that veto with a two-thirds proposal in any way. women when the President—any Presi- dent—repeats inaccuracies like the vote of both Houses. All Senators know The President knows what the Con- Congress has failed to fully fund the that. I am not telling Senators any- stitution says, and he knows that the troops. It seems to me that it is not a thing they don’t know. Congress has a right to listen, to study, A Presidential veto does not nec- and then to act as it seeks to act. So prudent thing to say. Congress and the essarily end the legislative process. this is an argument that contradicts American people support our troops, When the President vetoes legislation the most basic constitutional prin- and the supplemental bill that we shall shortly take to conference robustly under article I, section 7 of the Con- ciples on which our Republic is found- funds their needs in the field and cares stitution, the President’s objections ed. The Congress was envisioned as a for their needs after they return home. are submitted to the House of Con- check on an overzealous or unwise For the President to assert otherwise gress—Congress being of two bodies— President, and that is no reflection on is a disservice—and I say this with the submitted to the House of Congress in either party—that the President can be utmost respect. I will say it again. For which the measure originated so that a Democrat, a Republican, or other- the President to assert otherwise is a the measure and the President’s objec- wise—and we do our duty to the Con- disservice. Honorable men and women tions can be reconsidered. All Senators stitution when we vigorously utilize may disagree, but Members of Congress know that. Any schoolboy who has our enumerated powers. and officials of the executive branch studied the Constitution knows that. So let us hear no more about meas- have a duty to try to find common But I am stating for the record, again, ures that the President has threatened ground, especially when the issue is a for all who run to read. to veto being not worthy of the Sen- violent and controversial war, with our A new vote can be scheduled on the ate’s consideration. Let the President troops in harm’s way every day. I shall same piece of legislation and a veto issue his veto threats as he wishes, but hope for a more reasonable and more can be overturned if the people’s rep- also let the Congress dutifully rep- realistic tone from our President—and resentatives—if the people’s elected resent the will of the people. I say it with the utmost respect, but representatives—in Congress demand On the matter of Iraq—and I say this this is an equal branch with the execu- it. most respectfully—I have been cha- tive branch and the judicial branch—in There is nothing earthshaking about grined of late to hear the falsehoods the coming days. May I say further overturning a Presidential veto. Since and scare tactics emanating from the that more light and less heat on this 1969, the Congress has overridden al- Oval Office. President Bush has repeat- matter would truly be in the best in- most 20 percent of the Presidential ve- edly intimated that there is a connec- terests of our troops and of our sorely toes. President Franklin Roosevelt had tion between the attacks of 9/11 and the divided country. nine vetoes overridden by Democratic Iraq war when no such link exists. Now, Mr. President, I have been here Congresses. I repeat: President Frank- President Bush has suggested—he is a long time. I know how to speak, when lin Roosevelt had nine vetoes over- my President and yours, Senators— to speak, and when not to speak, but I ridden by Democratic Congresses. that the supplemental appropriations am a U.S. Senator, and I am asserting President Ronald Reagan had six ve- bill as now written would cause death this Senate’s constitutional duty. My toes overridden by a Democratic House and destruction in America, which is Republican friends and my Democratic and a Republican Senate. patently false. I speak now as the friends know this, and I know they The veto override provision in the chairman—of course, everybody knows have a right to do the same, but that is Constitution is a protection for the it—I speak as the chairman of the Ap- my speech for today, God willing. people whom the Congress represents. propriations Committee. Mr. President, I thank the Chair, I Members of Congress are elected by the Mr. President, I make a parliamen- thank all Senators, and I yield the people to make laws based on sound tary inquiry: Are we under limited floor. public policy, not to capitulate or sur- time, I ask the Chair? Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, first, render to any—Republican or Demo- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- I thank my distinguished colleague crat—to any Presidential threats. The ator has 1 minute 30 seconds remaining from West Virginia for his insight, as Senate must never—hear me now, the of the 20 minutes he requested. always, and wisdom on so many issues. Senate must never—become a Mr. BYRD. Mr. President, I am not He epitomizes what it means to be a rubberstamp for any President, Repub- going to belabor Senators. I have seven Senator, and we are honored and appre- lican or Democrat or Independent or more pages to read. I know what is in ciative of his leadership. otherwise. here, and so I ask unanimous consent PRESCRIPTION DRUGS Certainly, the Congress should care- that I may use whatever time I con- Mr. President, I do want to speak fully consider the announced reasons sume, and I assure Senators I will not today as it relates to prescription for a Presidential veto, but the Con- consume more than 10 minutes, if that drugs and the very important vote we gress has a duty, if the President’s rea- much. will be having tomorrow, but I also sons are not credible or do not reflect The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there first want to speak to what is hap- the will of the people, to overturn Pres- objection? pening as it relates to Blacksburg, VA,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.050 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4573 and Virginia Tech University, just to bill. I did not, in part because of the lights on, buying food, and getting indicate that we know there was a me- prohibition that was put into place. their medicine. Our top goal should be, morial service today; that all of us, That bill was written and designed as a Medicare Program, to make sure even as we carry on the normal busi- with a huge gap in coverage—it has people can get the medicine they need ness of the Senate, are very mindful often been called the doughnut hole— at the very best price. This bill moves and aware of what has occurred in the that, frankly, wouldn’t be there if we us in that direction. massacre at Virginia Tech University. were able to get the very best pricing Let’s be clear also about what we are My thoughts and prayers go out to ev- and stretch those Medicare dollars as not doing. This legislation does not eryone who has been affected through- far as they should go. create a national drug formulary, nor out the university, most particularly In fact, I joined a group of Senators does it establish price controls. Seniors the families. to introduce legislation on December will have access to all of the drugs they Certainly, I think I can speak for the 12, 2003, to repeal the prohibition on ne- do today, and possibly more. The pre- people of my great State of Michigan gotiation, which is what we are talking scription drug industry will continue when I say that we are deeply, deeply about now, because we knew then what to thrive, and R&D will not be affected. sorrowful, and our prayers go out to we know today. If the Secretary of The change we will see is a change we each and every one of the people who Health and Human Services negotiates have been asking for for the last 3 have been affected. Medicare prescription drug prices, sen- years, that seniors and families have Mr. President, we have a very impor- iors will pay the lowest possible price. been asking for for the last 3 years. tant vote tomorrow, which is whether That should be what we are all focused It is also important to note because to proceed to legislation that would on as it relates to Medicare prescrip- we will hear from our friends on the begin the process of allowing the Sec- tion drugs. More than 3 years later, we other side of the aisle that somehow, if retary of Health and Human Services are taking the first step toward getting Medicare is going to have the oppor- to be able to negotiate the very best this done. It is about time. I think that tunity to negotiate or if the Secretary price for our seniors under Medicare. I is what the American people are saying can negotiate at appropriate times for want to take this opportunity to com- to us. lower prices, we are going to see the mend our majority leader for getting The best way to get the lowest pos- prices of the VA go up. Well, I asked us to this point, Senator REID, and the sible prices on prescription drugs is to the Congressional Budget Office to sub- Finance Committee for getting us to use the negotiating clout of 43 million mit to me in writing if that were, in this point, for bringing the issue of seniors and people with disability who fact, true under this bill. They, in fact, Medicare drug pricing to the Senate are under Medicare. That negotiating said: No, under this bill, that is not the floor. I hope tomorrow we are going to clout needs to be used. We are consid- case. We are not going to see veterans see a strong bipartisan vote to proceed ering this bill right now because the or any other group see their prescrip- with the bill. American people want it. According to tion drug prices go up under this legis- Frankly, it is very unfortunate we a poll conducted by the AARP, 87 per- lation. So that is one good thing we are having to vote on whether to pro- cent of all Americans said they want need to make clear and debunk as we ceed to this bill, but since that vote is Medicare to negotiate prescription begin this debate. occurring, I hope we will have a re- drug prices—87 percent. That is a pret- Now, what we do know is we have a sounding yes tomorrow for something ty big number. Eighty-seven percent of very interesting thing going on. We that is so clear to the American people. the seniors, according to AARP, when have two kinds of debate going on right The direction we will hopefully take asked, have said: Yes, of course, we now in opposition from those who are tomorrow is the direction that the vot- want the Federal Government to nego- major beneficiaries of the current sys- ers asked us to take. Their message tiate to get the very best price. tem, the special interest groups that last November was crystal clear: that Why do consumers want Medicare to have the benefit right now of seeing they want to make sure we are making negotiate for lower drug prices? Be- huge profit increases as a result of this health care decisions in the best inter- cause they know what everybody prescription drug bill. On the one hand, ests of people—the best interests of knows: large purchasers are getting we are seeing ads that say: This legis- seniors, of children, of families—and deep discounts for prescription drugs, lation will do nothing. Do not pass it; not the special interests that make and they want the same from Medicare. it will not do anything. Then, on the money off the system. Tomorrow is This bill does not do the same thing other hand, the very same people are going to be a vote on that. as the VA, but the VA is a good exam- saying: But it will cause seniors to not Tomorrow will be the first step in the ple of what can be done when there is be able to get the choice of medicines process. We are removing the provision negotiation, when the Federal Govern- they want, it will cause veterans to see that prohibits Medicare from using its ment brings its clout as it does for our their medicine costs go up, it will cost negotiating clout. What we are going veterans. It gives us some idea of the R&D and we won’t be able to do re- to be voting on tomorrow is whether kinds of discounts that can be search and development into new pre- we will proceed. And why are we doing achieved. scription drugs anymore. I find it so in- that? Well, first of all, this Medicare For example, we know that on aver- teresting that the same people are ar- bill that was put in place a few years age, the VA health system gets pre- guing both sides: It will not do any- ago actually prohibited the Secretary scription drugs for approximately 58 thing, and it will have all of these dev- from negotiating to get the best price percent less than their retail prices—58 astating effects. for seniors, amazingly. People to this percent—and on some medicines, it is At the same time, we are seeing huge day ask: How in the world did that hap- up to a 1,000-percent difference. Now, I amounts of money, millions and mil- pen? Well, it happened because, unfor- would say, if the VA can do this and lions of dollars—for months, I have tunately, there were too many provi- get 58 percent, we can get a better deal seen ads on TV and radio, newspaper sions in that bill that were put in on if we negotiate, knowing again that ads telling us these people do not want behalf of the special interests rather this bill does not reflect what the VA negotiation or that it will not do any- than our seniors. does, but it gives you a sense of what thing, all paid for by the same people The step we take tomorrow is good can be done when we have that kind of who benefit by the current system. I for our seniors, it is good for families, clout. might just say that just today, a full- and it is good for taxpayers. It is good Let’s be clear about what we are page, single-color ad running in the for taxpayers to get the best deal so doing right now with this bill. We are Washington Post on page A5 today, that our dollars can go as far as pos- opening the door to lower drug prices costs about $135,000—this is today, this sible under Medicare. So tomorrow is so Medicare beneficiaries can afford is yesterday. We have ad after ad after an important day. the medicines they need and we can ad being run and paid for by people who I have been fighting for this provi- save taxpayers money. We all know tell us this bill will not do anything. It sion ever since the Medicare prescrip- how many times we have heard the sto- will not do anything, but yet they have tion drug program was passed in late ries—I hear them all the time—of folks spent millions of dollars on TV, mil- 2003. I wish I could have supported that trying to juggle between keeping the lions of dollars on the radio, in ads we

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.051 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4574 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 have seen, ads for our benefit, ads tell- been extended because of when it fell. currently go through to determine ing us people do not want negotiation. Today is the day everybody in America their taxable income. S. 1040 simply de- I might add that in this ad which is knows that the Federal Government fines income as the positive difference running right now, where they say peo- income taxes are due. If you are like between revenue and expenses. As the ple really do not want Medicare to ne- me, you spent way too much time com- legislation is implemented, the rate of gotiate, what they say in the fine print pleting your taxes this year. taxation would be 19 percent in the is that, in fact, 89 percent oppose Gov- Our Tax Code and its accompanying first 2 years and then lowered to the ernment negotiation if it could limit regulations total tens of thousands of desired rate of 17 percent in the third access to new prescription medicine—if pages which are complicated, con- year. it could limit access to new prescrip- fusing, and costly to comply with. In Finally, this legislation would re- tion medicine. This bill does not limit fact, since we last had major reform in quire a three-fifths majority in Con- access to new prescription medicine— 1986 there have been more than 14,000 gress for any tax increase. This ensures or old prescription medicine, for that changes to the Tax Code. Average tax- that only in times of the most need matter. That is not what we are talk- payers should not have to pour over would the Government be able to take ing about. tax regulations for hours on end or pay any more money out of the hands of In fact, what I find interesting, and a tax professional to complete their tax hard-working Americans. By enacting the subtle part of this is, if we nego- documents. this legislation we would institute a tiate for a better deal, they won’t be In the IRS’ own estimation, the aver- strong backstop against those that able to do research anymore. We know age time burden for all taxpayers filing would seek to continue the out-of-con- that right now the drug industry a 1040 is 30 hours. Unfortunately, what trol growth of the Federal Govern- spends 21⁄2 times more on marketing this means is that for most people is ment. And we would open a new chap- and advertising than they do on re- that in addition to paying the Govern- ter of responsibility and accountability search. ment every year, they need to pay in our revenue collection. I would suggest we can negotiate to someone or buy software to tell them Yes, the flat tax would revolutionize get a little better price. And I wonder exactly how much to pay their Govern- the way our Government operates. how much $135,000 would buy in medi- ment. Today, if a flat tax were in place, tax- cine for somebody today instead of one Americans need a simple, common- payers would file a return the size of a ad? Let’s cut down a little bit on the sense solution. This is why I have in- postcard. Rather than spending hours marketing and advertising, and we troduced S. 1040, the Tax Simplifica- deciphering convoluted IRS forms or won’t have to worry about whether tion Act. resorting to professional tax assist- Medicare can negotiate for the very The Tax Simplification Act estab- ance, the flat tax would allow tax- best price. lishes a flat income tax of 17 percent on payers to complete their taxes quickly So I hope that tomorrow we are all income and places real spending and easily. going to have a vote to proceed to this limits on the Federal Government. The time for significant reform of very important public policy issue, this First, my proposal would replace our our Tax Code is now. The flat tax very important bill. I hope we are current incomprehensible Tax Code would revolutionize the way our Gov- going to, in fact, do what 87 percent of with a flat rate of 17 percent on all in- ernment operates. The complexities voters are saying they want us to do— dividuals’ income beyond an exemption and inequities of the current tax sys- negotiate the very best price for pre- for the individual and any dependents. tem would end. They would be replaced scription drugs. To prevent the double-taxation of in- by a system that treats every taxpayer I would ask my colleagues to vote to come, earnings from savings would not equally and represents a massive re- allow us to proceed to the bill. We can be included as taxable income, result- duction in the tax burden carried by continue to work together on exactly ing in a tax cut for virtually all tax- hard-working Americans. what the language should look like, payers and providing a strong incentive Only by treating every taxpayer but the idea that you would stop it be- for people to save. Increasing the sav- equally can our Tax Code ever achieve fore we can even have the debate would ings rate in this country should be a true fairness. Only when the shackles be extremely disturbing. People in this priority of this Congress and this bill of our burdensome Tax Codes are re- country do not understand why it is will do that. moved will we truly see what our great that decisions are made too often for As complicated as the individual tax economy is capable of doing. those who happen to have the lobbyists system has proven, it pales in compari- Mr. President, I yield the floor. here or the ads on TV or in the news- son to the hoops U.S. businesses are re- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- paper and not enough for the folks who quired to jump through. In preparation ator from Michigan is recognized. are working hard every day or are re- for 2005 taxes, businesses and non- Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, Mr. tired on a fixed income trying to make profits spent an estimated 6.4 billion ISAKSON has a very brief statement, ends meet. hours complying with the Federal In- perhaps 2 minutes. I wonder if he can Tomorrow is a chance for us to show come Tax Code, with an estimated be recognized for 2 minutes and then that those folks are not making the de- compliance cost of over $265 billion. Senator NELSON for 2 minutes and then cisions, that we are going to move for- Without action, that number is ex- I be recognized for 5 minutes. I ask ward on a bill which is positive for sen- pected to grow to over $482 billion by unanimous consent. iors, which is going to give us an op- 2015. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without portunity to open the door to negoti- What this means is that for every $5 objection, it is so ordered. ating good prices and make a real dif- the Government collects right now, The Senator from Georgia is recog- ference for people, a real difference for businesses are forced to spend another nized. people whom the system is supposed to $1 to comply with the countless rules HONORING RYAN CLARK help, the Medicare prescription drug and regulations that we, the Govern- Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I ask benefit for our seniors, for people on ment, have created. These additional to address the Senate as if in morning Medicare. They deserve the best price. costs are then passed on to the con- business. Tomorrow, we will have a chance to sumers, investors, and employees. We The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without vote to go to that debate and work to- need to overcome this notion that our objection, it is so ordered. gether to get a bill that will do that. I corporate income tax simply applies to Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I rise hope we are going to vote to do that. some faceless boardroom. Corporations today to express my sympathy and I I yield the floor. do not pay taxes. People pay taxes. know the sympathy of all of the Mem- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Corporations do not comply with our bers of the Senate and the people of the ator from Alabama is recognized. tax laws. People do. United States of America on the tragic TAX DAY Under my legislation, companies losses yesterday at Virginia Tech. Mr. SHELBY. Once again, today, tax would pay the flat tax of 17 percent I learned this morning that one of time is upon us. It is April 17. We know rate on their income, simplifying the those first tragic losses was a young April 15 is the magic day, but it has complicated calculations businesses gentleman by the name of Ryan Clark,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.056 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4575 and I, from the floor of the Senate, anything other than protect the inter- The legislation before us today takes send to Martinez, GA, my sympathy, ests of this country through our intel- significant steps toward reinvigorating that of Senator CHAMBLISS, and that of ligence activities. our oversight responsibility. For exam- all Members of the Senate on the trag- I yield the floor. ple, effective oversight depends on ic loss of Ryan. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Members of Congress having timely ac- None of us can understand what hap- ator from Michigan is recognized. cess to intelligence information. Unfor- pened yesterday, but all of us must un- Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, the re- tunately, too often that is not the case, derstand the profound tragedy and the lease of the 9/11 Commission Report in as requests from Congress for intel- loss of youth in its prime. July of 2004 fueled a debate about how ligence information are stonewalled Ryan Clark, 22 years old, a double our intelligence community should be and slow walked. Section 108 of the bill major in English and biology, was restructured to better respond to the before us requires the intelligence com- about to walk across the stage and post-9/11 threat. munity to provide, upon request from graduate and then pursue a masters In response to problems identified by the chairman or vice chairman of the and a Ph.D. in psychology. Ryan is sur- the 9/11 Commission, Congress passed Senate Intelligence Committee or vived not only by his mother Letitie and the President signed into law the chairman or ranking member of the but by his brother Bryan. Bryan told us Intelligence Reform and Terrorism House Intelligence Committee, timely that his brother was known best by his Prevention Act of 2004. Most notably, access to existing intelligence assess- nickname on the campus, ‘‘Stack.’’ that bill created the Director of Na- ments, reports, estimates, legal opin- Stack, if you go to the Web site of the tional Intelligence, empowering the ions, or other intelligence information. Virginia Tech band, can be seen volun- DNI with budget power and control The bill before us also advances teering his time in a food drive for the over personnel in the intelligence com- Congress’s oversight of particular mat- needy. In fact, just last December, in munity. ters. For example, section 313 requires the Georgia Dome at the Peach Bowl of The bill also created the National the Director of National Intelligence to 2006, one of the last times that Ryan Counterterrorism Center, or NCTC, submit a classified report on any clan- went back to Georgia, he performed with the authority to conduct strategic destine detention facilities operated by with the Virginia Tech band at half- counterterrorism planning and to as- the U.S. Government. This public law time of that bowl game. sign roles and responsibilities for coun- requirement reflects the Intelligence This young man was a residential ad- terterrorism activities. Passage of in- Committee’s determination to under- viser, a member of the band, an out- telligence reform was a watershed mo- take serious oversight of any intel- standing student, a proud son, and a ment in the drive to better organize ligence community detention and in- proud brother. I am very proud as a our Government to deal with the terrogation practices. The bill before Georgian to have known of his accom- threat of terrorism. us also establishes within the Office of plishments, and I send his mother On December 8, 2004, the same day the Director of National Intelligence Letitie my prayers and my hopes that the Senate passed the Intelligence re- an inspector general of the intelligence she will accept our sympathy and en- form bill, it passed the Intelligence Au- community. That is a major reform. It dure the tragedy of the loss of her son thorization Act for fiscal year 2005. It is highly important, and it is long Ryan. is troubling that that day, December 8, overdue. The creation of an inspector To the families of all of those profes- 2004, was the last day this body passed general of the intelligence community sors, employees, and students who were an Intelligence authorization bill, and will strengthen accountability by per- hurt yesterday in Blacksburg, VA, I ex- it underscores the importance of the mitting independent examinations of tend my sympathy and my deepest Senate passing the bill before us. Since problems, abuses, or deficiencies. prayers that we will find reconcili- passage of the Intelligence reform bill We should not let another year go by ations out of tragedy. in 2004, we learned a good deal about without an Intelligence authorization I yield the floor. what additional changes to law might bill. We cannot defeat the threats this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- be needed to improve our intelligence Nation faces without the strongest and ator from Florida is recognized. community functions. In addition, as most effective intelligence community Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. Presi- we have learned about such activities which, in turn, requires strong over- dent, our hearts go out to the citizens as the NSA’s warrantless wiretapping sight. of Virginia, to the university commu- program, we have come to better ap- I yield the floor and suggest the ab- nity, and to the families and the loved preciate the need for strong congres- sence of quorum. ones of those in this tragedy. It goes sional oversight of the intelligence The PRESIDING OFFICER. The without saying that we will get to the community. clerk will call the roll. bottom of this and then find out what As a matter of fact, the 9/11 Commis- The assistant legislative clerk pro- is going wrong in this country that our sion said the following in its very ceeded to call the roll. sense of morality has gone askew so lengthy and thoughtful report, Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, I ask that a senseless set of murders such as ‘‘Strengthen Congressional Oversight unanimous consent that the order for this would occur. of Intelligence and Homeland Secu- the quorum call be rescinded. I am here to speak on behalf of this rity.’’ That is the heading of the sec- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. intelligence legislation on which we tion, and this is the one pungent sen- SALAZAR). Without objection, it is so are about to have a vote, cutting off tence from that report which I hope ordered. debate so we can proceed to finalize the will cause a lot of people to rethink TRADE bill. It is necessary that we do that. I their opposition to cloture on this bill: Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, later had the privilege of serving on the In- Of all of our recommendations, strength- this week there will be a group of us in telligence Committee along with my ening congressional oversight may be among the Senate holding a meeting on trade colleague, the Senator from Michigan, the most difficult and important. issues and talking about what our re- on his committee, the Armed Services Those words should have an impact sponse will be to the request by Presi- Committee, as well as the Senate For- on the vote that is coming up in about dent Bush to extend what they call eign Relations Committee. There is so 40 minutes. trade promotion authority. Trade pro- much going on that is at stake for this More than 30 years ago, the Senate motion authority is a slogan that was country that we cannot in any way passed S. Res. 400, establishing the Se- used to replace fast track because fast delay this Intelligence bill; it needs to lect Committee on Intelligence, and track apparently became some sort of a be considered; it needs to be amended, charging that committee with pro- pejorative term, at least in the minds if that is the will of this body; it needs viding ‘‘vigilant legislative oversight of some. So they came up with the to be passed, and we need to then get over the intelligence activities of the term ‘‘trade promotion authority.’’ It reconciled with the House and get it to United States to assure that such ac- is like labeling things healthy forests the President for his signature. There tivities are in conformity with the or clear skies, trade promotion author- are too many things that are super im- Constitution and laws of the United ity. What it means is fast track. The portant to this country for us to do States.’’ Congress, by Constitution, has the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 00:50 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.057 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4576 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 right to be engaged in foreign com- hour. If they decide they are being the middle class in this country—with merce. That is where it is described, in cheated out of wages and try to orga- good jobs that pay well—have we now the Constitution. It is not described as nize workers, they will be sent to pris- decided there is a new strategy, a part of executive branch responsibil- on. bankrupt strategy, which is so-called ities. It is described as part of the re- That is the new economy? That is the free trade, which is unfair to the Amer- sponsibilities of Congress to be in- new circumstance of the global econ- ican worker, because it is a race to the volved in the issue of trade and foreign omy? That is free trade? That is good bottom, saying to companies: If you commerce. for our country? I don’t think so. can find somebody who will work for 20 What has happened over some years I have spoken at length about this cents an hour, have them make the is the Congress has given the President issue. I am for trade and plenty of it. Huffy bicycles, have them make the authority to negotiate trade agree- Sign me up. I support trade. I like Radio Flyer little red wagons, have ments in secret behind closed doors, trade. I insist that it be fair to this them make the Fig Newtons, have bring the trade agreements to this Con- country. I am flat out tired, through them make the Hanes underwear, and gress, and we agree we will put on a fast track, of having trade agreements have them make the Levi’s. They are straitjacket and not be allowed to offer being negotiated in secret overseas all gone because they went in search of any amendments, and it will be consid- someplace behind closed doors by U.S. cheap labor. All those American jobs ered as a trade agreement that we have negotiators who forget who they are are gone. Now, I ask you, is that a road negotiated with some other country working for. They bring them to this to a better future for American work- under expedited procedures. The Con- Chamber under expedited authority ers? gress itself has decided to put itself in called fast track and there is the prohi- We, actually, in this Chamber, mind a straitjacket with something called bition of any amendment being offered you—not me but a majority—have sup- fast track or trade promotion author- to change what is obviously wrong ported one of the most pernicious pro- ity. I did not support that. I didn’t sup- with the agreement. Then it runs visions I have ever seen, a provision that says: Do you know what, if you port it for President Clinton. I don’t through here like a hot knife through want to close your manufacturing support it for President Bush. Presi- butter. We have had NAFTA and plant and fire your workers and move dent Bush has had fast track trade pro- CAFTA and U.S.-Canada. We have had the jobs to China, we intend to give motion authority now for some while. all these trade agreements, at the end you a big fat tax break for doing it. It is about to expire on June 30. He is of which we have the largest trade def- That is unbelievable. I have tried four asking that it be extended. As for me, icit in the history of humankind. It is I will not support extending it. I hope times to change that in the Senate and not even close. Every time we pass a have come up short in the vote four to be involved with a group of Senators new trade agreement, we have a larger who similarly will describe the danger straight times. But I guarantee you deficit. this: One day, there will be enough to this country’s economic future that The people who come up with these clear thinking in this Congress to de- would be entailed by supporting the ex- concoctions called free trade say: Isn’t cide we ought to stop subsidizing the tension of fast track or trade pro- this wonderful? No, it is not. Would export of American jobs. motion authority. they say it was wonderful if they were So I started by saying we have an Let me describe what the danger is. losing their jobs? They wouldn’t. But $830 billion trade deficit. That relates Some wish to ignore all the evidence they are not the ones losing their jobs. to the export of jobs and the purchase that exists with respect to trade. The Alan Blinder, a mainstream econo- every day of $2 billion more than we fact is, in the past year our trade def- mist, former vice chairman of the Fed- are able to ship abroad. We are going to icit in 1 year was $830 billion. What eral Reserve, said this about the have to repay that someday. You can does that number mean? It probably outsourcing of American jobs: There make a case on the budget deficit that doesn’t mean much to most people. It are 40 million American jobs subject to is money which we owe to ourselves. means every single day we purchase outsourcing. Not all of them will leave You cannot make that case with the from foreign countries $2 billion more this country, but even those that re- trade deficit. That will be repaid some- than we are able to sell to foreign main will have downward pressure on day with a lower standard of living in countries. Every single day we put $2 their income because there is someone this country. billion worth of IOUs in the hands of else somewhere else in the world will- That is why we ought to, as a coun- another country. A substantial portion ing to work for pennies. try, begin worrying about and thinking of those IOUs is now possessed by So is that the new global economy? about this new strategy. I am for a fair China, Japan, and others. About $1 bil- Is that the flat world? Mr. Friedman trade strategy. I am for trade, and lion is owed from the citizens of this wrote the book ‘‘The World is Flat.’’ I plenty of it, but it must be fair to this country to China and Japan. know better than that; so does he. The country. I am sick and tired of seeing In addition to the imbalance of $2 bil- world is not flat. In the chapter where trade agreements that pull the rug out lion a day importing more than we ex- he looks at Bangalore, India and says, from under our workers and pull the port or consume—saying it another isn’t this wonderful, all these jobs in rug out from under our standards. I way, about 6 percent more than we India, no, it is not wonderful. want to lift people up, not press people produce—we are seeing American jobs Is this the kind of new economy we down. I do not believe in a future in being shipped overseas. We have actu- signed up for? Have we forgotten the which 40 million to 50 million addi- ally some cheerleaders for that propo- lessons, have we forgotten what it took tional workers are subject to sition. We have some people in this to get to this kind of standard of liv- outsourcing. But if they are not country who say isn’t that great. Isn’t ing? outsourced, they, nonetheless, can that a wonderful situation where we James Fyler was shot 54 times. It was come home and say: Honey, I didn’t can actually move American jobs said once he died of lead poisoning. I lose my job today, but they are going abroad. None of those people will ever guess when you are shot 54 times—he to pay me less. lose their jobs. They will write books was actually killed in Ludlow, CO, One final point. I spoke here about a and make laws, but they will never lose nearly 90 years ago. He was killed be- week ago about Circuit City. I do not their jobs. It is the folks who shower cause he thought people who went into know much about that company. I do after work who lose their jobs; the peo- the coal mines to mine for coal had a know this: They announced they were ple who go to the plant, the people on right to a fair wage and a right to work going to fire 3,400 people. Because they the assembly line; the people who find in a safe workplace. were bad workers? Not a bit. No. They their job is going elsewhere because Move forward a century from James said: We are going to fire them because there is someone else in the world, a Fyler, from people who gave their lives we want to rehire other workers to billion to a billion and a half people to lift the standards in this country, to whom we can pay less money. They willing to work for 20 or 30 cents an expand the middle class, to provide for were making, I think, slightly above hour. They will work with no health good jobs, demand a fair wage, demand $11 an hour. They wanted to fire 3,400 care benefits and no retirement bene- decent benefits, and then ask yourself workers so they could hire cheaper fits and in some cases for 20 cents an if, after a century, when we expanded workers, less expensive workers.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.058 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4577 I do not know. If you go into a store against it in the Senate; I voted world to China, and the workers at the and ask somebody where the camera against it in the House, a dozen or so Nike plant are not paid enough to buy counter is, are you going to find a years ago—I flew to McAllen, TX, at the shoes they make. The difference in worker who knows? Maybe you have a my own expense and rented a car and their economy and ours, and these worker you could pay less money to, went across the border with a couple of trading partners where we have huge but do these companies forget that friends and visited Reynosa, Mexico, to trade deficits, is the workers are not their company is their workers, the see what NAFTA had brought to the sharing in the wealth they create. company is represented by their work- border areas and to the country of But that is starting to happen in the force, that is their brand? Mexico—at least that part of Mexico. United States. In the last 30 years, the We are headed in the wrong direc- I went to the home of two General wealthiest 20 percent in our country, tion. There is no social program in this Electric workers—General Electric, the wealthiest 5 percent, the wealthiest country as important as a good job Mexico. Both made about 90 cents an 1 percent are seeing their wealth go up that pays well. Yet the whole notion hour. Both worked pretty much 60 while wages are stagnant for the rest of here of the companies that want to hours a week, 10 hours a day, 6 days a the country. That is why the middle produce in China and ship here and run week. They lived in a home maybe 20 class is shrinking, because people who their income through the Cayman Is- feet by 15 feet, with no running water, are working hard and playing by the lands to avoid paying taxes to this no electricity. They had dirt floors. rules simply are not sharing in the country—the whole notion is, this is a When it rained hard, the floors turned wealth they create. new day, it is a new economy. Don’t to mud. They are more productive than they you understand it? Free trade. That is When you went outside their home— have ever been. We are setting produc- not fair trade, where I come from. these are people who worked 60 hours a tivity records in this country. Yet My colleague, Senator BROWN, has week each for an American company, a wages are stagnant or worse. Compa- worked on this issue for a long while in Mexican subsidiary of an American nies are outsourcing, companies are the U.S. House, and now in the U.S. company, 3 miles from the United going overseas. Senator DORGAN said Senate. I really appreciate seeing new States of America in Reynosa, Mex- those same companies are getting tax voices come to the Senate demanding ico—if you went outside their home, breaks and all kinds of advantages, as we move toward fair trade relation- there was a ditch behind their house, this body and, across the Capitol, the ships. We can compete, but the com- maybe 4 feet wide, with 2 by 4s across House of Representatives continue to petition has to be fair. That has not the ditch. Children would be playing in pass these job-killing trade agreements been the case with any of these trade this ditch with human waste, indus- that outsource our jobs, that betray agreements. trial waste—who knows what was going our middle class, that mean layoffs of Mr. President, I am happy to yield through it. The American Medical As- police and fire and teachers and people the floor so my colleague, Senator sociation said the Mexican-U.S. border who make our communities healthier, BROWN, can be recognized. is the most toxic place in the Western as families are hurt by these layoffs or The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Hemisphere. And these children were as families are hurt by stagnant wages. ator from Ohio. playing in whatever this human and in- That is why we need a very different Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask dustrial effluent waste was in this trade policy—whether it is with Japan, unanimous consent to speak as in neighborhood. whether it is with Mexico—a trade pol- morning business for only 5 minutes or As you walked through this neigh- icy that lifts up the middle class and so. borhood, you could tell where the helps to strengthen the middle class, a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without workers worked by the construction trade policy that will help workers in objection, it is so ordered. materials from which their homes were the developing world instead of this Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I wish to built—packing materials and card- trade policy that outsources our jobs, echo much of what Senator DORGAN board boxes from the companies for betrays our communities, and hurts has said and thank him for his leader- which they worked or from the sup- our families. ship on trade issues. I came to the pliers to the companies for which they Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, will the House of Representatives in 1993, elect- worked. They used that as roofs and Senator from Ohio yield for a question? ed in 1992. Our trade deficit was fairly walls to build their shacks. Mr. BROWN. Yes. large in those days, we thought: $38 bil- Again, these are people who hold full- Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, the lion. Today, as the Senator said, de- time jobs for General Electric, Mexico, Senator from Ohio has described auto- pending on whether you count services 3 miles from the United States of mobiles as one part of his discussion. I in addition to manufactured products, America. wonder if the Senator from Ohio it exceeds $800 billion. Then, nearby, within a mile, I visited knows, for example, with respect to Interestingly, if you add the aggre- an auto plant—an auto plant that South Korea, we imported about 700,000 gate trade deficit from 1992 through looked just like an auto plant in automobiles from South Korea in the 2006—that means the amount of im- Lordstown, OH, Avon Lake, OH, with last year. We were able to export about ports we have brought into our country modern technology, even more modern 4,000 American cars to South Korea. versus the amount of exports we have than what we have often in auto plants Now, why the imbalance? Mr. Presi- going out of our country—we have had in Ohio, unfortunately. They had clean dent, 99 percent of the cars driven on a $4 trillion trade deficit in the aggre- floors and hard-working workers who the streets of South Korea are made in gate. That is $4 trillion of wealth hav- were very productive. South Korea. That is the way they ing gone out of our country. There was one difference between the want it. Once in a great while, we have To understand what $4 trillion is, be- Mexican auto plant and the auto plant a little burst. The Dodge Dakota pick- cause nobody can really understand you would see in Cleveland. The dif- up—all of a sudden, it looked like they that, if you spent $1,000 every second of ference was there was no parking lot in were going to sell some Dodge Dakota every minute of every hour of every the Mexican auto plant because, simply pickups in South Korea. Just like that, day—if you spent $1,000 of every second put, the workers have not shared in the the Government shut that down. Oh, of every minute of every hour of every wealth they produce for their company. they do it very subtlely, but they know day—to spend $4 trillion, it would take You could go halfway around the what they are doing—just like that. you 135 years. That is the kind of world. You could go to a Motorola China is a good example. We did a wealth we have seen go out of our plant in Malaysia, and the workers are trade agreement with China. China is country. But to understand that in not paid enough to buy the phones they now creating an automobile export more human terms, let me just share a make. You could come back halfway market. They want to be a big auto- story, if I could, for a moment. around the world to Costa Rica to a mobile exporter and intend to export to About 7 or 8 years ago, after the Disney plant, and the workers do not this country. Here is what we said to North American Free Trade Agree- make enough money to buy the toys China, a country with which we have a ment, unfortunately, passed the House they make for their children. You giant trade deficit: When you ship your and Senate—Senator DORGAN voted could go back halfway around the Chinese cars to the United States, we

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.061 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4578 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 will impose a 2.5-percent tariff on your We want fair trade. Plenty of countries last day at work, decided they wanted cars. And we agree that for any U.S. around the world practice trade, as to sign as a note of pride in the work automobiles we would sell in China, South Korea does, for their own na- they had just completed. you may impose a 25-percent tariff. So tional interests. We practice trade ac- Then the jobs were gone, all gone to to a country with which we have a cording to some economics textbooks China, because the Pennsylvania work- giant trade deficit—we now have a $230 some days, and other days we practice ers could not compete with those who billion trade deficit with China—we trade according to what is in the inter- would work for 25 cents, 30 cents, 35 have said: It is OK for you to impose a ests of these large corporations that cents an hour. But they shouldn’t have tariff that is 10 times higher than we outsource. But these companies—again to. That is the point of our discussion would impose on your cars. I use the word ‘‘betray’’—they betray about fair trade. That is unbelievably ignorant, in my our families, they betray our commu- Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, in the judgment, ignorant of our own eco- nities when they do what Huffy Bicy- next decade our Nation needs to—our nomic interests. cles did because those jobs were good- Government needs to come up with a If I may make one additional point. paying union jobs in Shelby County manufacturing policy. If our trade laws In Ohio, they used to make Huffy bicy- OH, in western Ohio. As Senator DOR- and our tax laws continue to encourage cles. I have spoken about that at some GAN said, they have been there for hun- outsourcing, continue to contribute to length on this floor. They paid people dreds of years. this erosion of the middle class, we will $11 an hour to make Huffy bicycles. In the far corner of northwest Ohio be a country with less and less manu- Huffy bicycles are 20 percent of the there is a company called the Ohio Art facturing, fewer and fewer manufac- American bicycle market. You can buy Company. The Ohio Art Company turing jobs, less and less of an ability them at Wal-Mart, Kmart, Sears. The makes something that almost everyone to protect our national interests. It is people at the plant in Ohio loved their who grew up in this country knows a question of national security, to be jobs. They made the Huffy bicycles for about: they make the Etch A Sketch. able to have a strong manufacturing over a century. They all got fired. They Some years ago, Wal-Mart went to the component to our economy, and it is a all lost their jobs. You can still buy a Ohio Art Company and said: We want question of economic security for fami- Huffy bicycle. They are all made in to sell Etch A Sketch in our stores for lies in places such as Dayton, in places China. under $10, and the Ohio Art Company such as Steubenville and Painesville But on the last day of work, after couldn’t make them for that price, so and Cleveland, OH, places where people they were fired, these Huffy bicycle they pretty much moved most or all of have built middle-class lifestyles, workers, as they drove out of the park- their production to China. bought their homes, sent their children ing lot of the plant, all left a pair of It is that kind of betrayal by these to college, worked for a decent retire- empty shoes where their car used to sit corporations, with the concurrence of ment because they have worked hard in the parking lot. It was their way of our Government, because our Govern- and played by the rules and manufac- saying to this company: You can ship ment writes the rules for these trade tured goods that people in our country our jobs overseas, but, by God, you are agreements—our Government has con- use. not going to fill our shoes. It was a sistently practiced trade and allowed I think it is important as we move poignant way for workers to say: This our largest companies to practice trade forward with Senator DORGAN and peo- job mattered to me. We worked here not according—unlike other countries ple like Senator WHITEHOUSE from for a century making bicycles as Amer- that don’t practice it according to our Rhode Island, who is also very inter- ican workers. And now it is gone. national interests, and it is time that ested in this, that we move forward on It is unbelievable, when you hear we do. developing this manufacturing policy these stories and see what the con- Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, I would on trade, on tax law, and on helping sequences are of American companies like to ask the Senator to yield for one particularly our small manufacturers that have decided: Do you know what, more point. The Governor of Pennsyl- compete in this global economy. the new economy says, let’s produce vania, Governor Rendell, tried very I thank the President, and I yield the where we can pay people 30 cents an hard to keep a company in Pennsyl- floor. hour. Incidentally, that is how much vania, Pennsylvania House Furniture. Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, we workers get who are now producing They make fine furniture with Penn- have seen a considerable number of the Huffy bicycles. They are paid 30 cents sylvania wood, a very special kind of members of the Intelligence Com- an hour. They work 7 days a week, 12 Pennsylvania wood. They make top-of- mittee come up to this floor this after- to 14 hours a day. That is what the the-line furniture and did for a long noon, and that is because we have be- Ohio workers were told. You cannot time—I think for over a century as fore us S. 372, legislation authorizing compete against that, so you lose. well. They were purchased by La-Z- funding for our intelligence and na- In my judgment, our country, this Boy, and La-Z-Boy decided that Penn- tional security services. But rather Senate—Senator BROWN and I and oth- sylvania House Furniture would be than work with Congress to ensure ers—has to begin standing up for the outsourced to China. At that point, agencies such as the CIA, FBI, NSA, economic interests of our country and Governor Rendell and folks in Pennsyl- and many others receive the funding our workers. If we do not, we will sure- vania got involved to try to save Penn- they need to meet their missions and ly see a shrinking of the middle class sylvania House Furniture, but they keep Americans safe, the Bush admin- and a dramatic impact on the economy couldn’t do it. The jobs all went to istration and some in the Republican and future growth of this country. China. Incidentally, they now ship the minority are stonewalling this legisla- That is why this is such an important wood from Pennsylvania to China, put tion. issue. the furniture together, and then ship it As the newest member of the Select Again, let me just say how impressed back to be sold as Pennsylvania House Committee on Intelligence, I am deeply I am with not only Senator BROWN but Furniture. troubled to see this legislation stalled especially Senator BROWN and some There is somebody in this country at the expense of the security of our others who have joined us in the Sen- who has a piece of furniture that they Nation. My father was a Foreign Serv- ate, who will be very strong voices on don’t understand the value of. The last ice officer, and through his eyes I have behalf of a sane, thoughtful, sensible day at work at this plant where they seen the power of American diplomatic protrade policy that is pro-fair trade had made furniture, these craftsmen, and intelligence efforts to do both and stands up for this country’s eco- who made top-end, top-of-the-line fur- great good in the world and great nomic interests. niture, these craftsmen, the last day of harm. I thank the Senator from Ohio for work, on the last piece of furniture In their misuse and in the yielding to me. that came off the assembly line in politicization of America’s intelligence Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I reem- Pennsylvania, turned it over and they apparatus, President Bush and his ad- phasize what Senator DORGAN says so all signed it. Someone has a piece of ministration have done great harm to often; that is, we want trade—plenty of furniture with the signatures of all the America’s standing in the world and it—we just want it with different rules. craftsmen at that plant who, on their our security at home. Now we face the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.063 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4579 bleak prospect that for the third year quiry. These are not organizations that proceed was passed last Thursday, the in a row the Senate may not pass an in- work in the bright light of day but in vote was 94 to 3. That is not just to telligence authorization bill. This the deep dark of the secrecy they re- drop off a number, that is a significant should give every concerned American quire to be effective. So meaningful expression of public will in the Senate. pause. and appropriate congressional over- The Senate was again prevented from This measure will fund our intel- sight is our only safeguard. moving to the bill for the purpose of ligence community agencies, fight ter- This administration welcomes over- debate and amendment by a continued rorism, strengthen our capabilities to sight less than almost any I can think Republican objection, forced 30 hours collect, analyze, and act on intel- of, but no administration in recent to run on the motion to proceed. As a ligence, and, most importantly, expand memory has needed it more. Perhaps result, we have wasted 2 days. transparency and oversight of our in- the Nixon administration, but like the As my distinguished and good friend telligence community. It is a reflection Nixon administration, this administra- Senator BOND said, we wasted 2 days of diligent, thorough, and tenacious tion’s resistance to congressional over- when we could have considered and dis- work by our committee chairman, JAY sight is a measure of how badly that posed of many amendments, which we ROCKEFELLER, the distinguished Sen- oversight is needed. Unfortunately, for were prepared to do. ator from West Virginia whom I see too many years this Congress has con- Vice Chairman BOND and I have been with me on the floor this afternoon, ducted oversight by the principle, ‘‘out working together, the two of us, to along with his Republican counterpart, of sight, out of mind’’ or maybe ‘‘see no clear and pass amendments even this Vice Chairman BOND. I was hopeful evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.’’ You day, and have done so, a goodly number that at least we could end the partisan don’t have to look far to see how badly of very important ones, because we are logjam that has crippled the Senate In- this strategy has failed. determined that this should work. telligence Committee for the last sev- But there is a new team in town and However, many of those 42 amend- eral years. I have been pleased with the a new leadership of this Congress that ments filed are extraneous, and they thoughtful and serious tone of the com- takes these responsibilities seriously. are nonrelevant. We have to pay atten- mittee’s work on both sides of the It is an abdication of our responsibility tion to those things that are outside aisle. Yet now something has suddenly under the Constitution, and it is irre- the jurisdiction of the Senate Intel- changed, and the Republican minority sponsible with respect to the security ligence Committee and the purpose of has maneuvered to block this legisla- of our Nation to let this legislation the authorization bill so they don’t tion from becoming law. Now it ap- languish. fall, but we won’t be able to get to pears the White House has intervened, I urge my colleagues in the minority those. has called in chits, and twisted arms to to reconsider their actions, to return So I would just conclude this way. stop a bill on which Chairman ROCKE- to this floor in good faith, to continue Oversight of the activities of the U.S. FELLER and Vice Chairman BOND have the good work that Chairman ROCKE- intelligence community is a necessary worked so long and hard. FELLER and Vice Chairman BOND have and essential duty of this body. It is a We understand this administration so nobly accomplished, and to give our duty which Vice Chairman BOND and I does not want congressional oversight. intelligence agencies the funding they take extremely seriously. He is very They don’t want oversight on their need to keep us safe. aggressive about it and cares a great inept response to Hurricane Katrina. I yield the floor. deal about it. I do, too. I think it de- They don’t want oversight on the un- Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, fines the integrity of the process with precedented purge of U.S. attorneys. first of all, I want to truly congratu- which we protect our Nation and the They don’t want oversight on the deba- late the Senator from Rhode Island for people who protect our Nation, cov- cle going on in Iraq. They don’t want his statement which was delivered ertly, overtly, as the Senator from oversight on intelligence either. But no forcefully, intelligently, accurately, Rhode Island talked about. administration in recent memory has and with great conviction which comes So it is our constitutional duty. I more badly needed congressional over- from his extremely broad experience in don’t like to be in dereliction of my sight, and in no area has that need life. constitutional duty at any particular been more plainly demonstrated than For this Senator’s part, my view is time. I can’t think of any time that is in the intelligence function of our Gov- this: Unless the Senate invokes cloture more important to me not to do so ernment. and moves to finish action on the fiscal than right now. This is the administration that failed year 2007 authorization bill, we have In addition, I fear that it sends a dis- to ensure adequate oversight of na- failed for the third time, or as Senator turbing message to the clandestine col- tional security letters under the PA- LEVIN put it, since 2004 when we last lectors and the intelligence analysts of TRIOT Act. This is the administration passed it, to pass important national the intelligence community who actu- that conducted its own secret wiretap security legislation. Everything that ally watch us and pay a lot more atten- program to monitor conversations, in- the American people are worried about, tion to us, particularly here in Wash- cluding the conversations of U.S. citi- everything that comes out of events ington, and read our tea leaves and zens. This is the administration that like yesterday in Blacksburg, VA—and take their signals about where they established its own secret prison net- by the way, I spent a good deal of time stand on our priority list. I want them work offshore to hold terrorism sus- on the phone talking to students I to stand at the very top. I think the pects off the record of this country’s le- know down there—everything points to vice chairman wants them to stand at gitimate judicial institutions. This is a massive, tectonic change in the way the very top. If we do not consider the administration that cherry-picked we are carrying on. them a legislative priority, then I am its intelligence to justify the claim of I speak very proudly of a PBS series saddened by that. Iraqi weapons of mass destruction. which is looking at this whole subject. I call upon my colleagues to set aside That abuse of intelligence alone cost Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thurs- politics and vote for cloture and final our country thousands of lives, billions day, and Friday, 12 consecutive hours passage of this intelligence authoriza- of dollars, and damage to our relations of looking at what Islam is, what it tion bill that has languished in legisla- with allies around the world that will isn’t; what jihad is, what it isn’t; and tive limbo for more years than I am linger for many years. how we came to this point. It is done happily willing to admit. One can see why this administration from all points of view, usually with- I yield the floor. would resist congressional oversight, out any journalists, just soldiers talk- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- but Congress is obligated to oversee ing. It is brilliant, and I recommend it ator from Missouri is recognized. our country’s national security and in- to my colleagues. Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I regret we telligence-gathering services. That is We tried last week to move the Intel- have come to an impasse. The chair- our duty under the Constitution. This ligence authorization bill, and we were man and I and the members of the com- duty is particularly important with the prevented from doing so due to objec- mittee have worked very hard to get a covert intelligence agencies because tion from some of our Republican col- bill that is getting much better. I am their work is not subject to public in- leagues. When cloture on the motion to very sorry that we were not allowed to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:45 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.064 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4580 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 vote on amendments this afternoon Carper Klobuchar Pryor ity of the executive branch to deny in- and to continue with our efforts to Casey Kohl Reed formation to the full membership of Clinton Landrieu Reid move this bill forward. The leaders are Conrad Lautenberg Rockefeller the Intelligence Committee. I am also responsible on both sides for running Dodd Leahy Salazar pleased that the classified annex to the this body, and we are in a position now Dorgan Levin Sanders bill includes my amendment calling on Durbin Lieberman where it appears to the minority that Schumer the administration to work with the Feingold Lincoln Snowe Feinstein McCaskill amendments will not—could be pre- Stabenow committee to ensure adequate over- Hagel Menendez cluded under that circumstance. I am Tester sight of the program, which has not yet Harkin Mikulski Webb afraid there will not be the support for Inouye Murray occurred. cloture. I regret that we have worked Kennedy Nelson (FL) Whitehouse With regard to intelligence reform, so long and hard and apparently will Kerry Nelson (NE) Wyden the bill establishes, within the Office of not be able to continue with this bill. I NAYS—45 the Director of National Intelligence, hope to do so at a later time. Alexander DeMint Martinez an inspector general of the intelligence I thank my colleagues and I yield the Allard Dole McConnell community, which will strengthen ac- floor. Bennett Domenici Murkowski countability across the community. Bond Ensign Roberts The bill also requires the declassifica- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under Bunning Enzi Sessions the previous order, the motion to pro- Burr Graham Shelby tion of the aggregate budget for all in- ceed to the motion to reconsider is Chambliss Grassley Smith telligence activities. This longstanding agreed to. Coburn Gregg Specter intelligence reform goal, which was Cochran Hatch Stevens CLOTURE MOTION Coleman Hutchison Sununu recommended by the 9/11 Commission, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under Collins Inhofe Thomas will allow for basic budget trans- the previous order and pursuant to rule Corker Isakson Thune parency and a level of accountability Cornyn Kyl Vitter without damaging our national secu- XXII, the clerk will report the motion Craig Lott Voinovich to invoke cloture. Crapo Lugar Warner rity. The bill includes an amendment I of- The bill clerk read as follows: NOT VOTING—5 fered to the classified annex with Sen- CLOTURE MOTION Biden Johnson Obama ator ROCKEFELLER calling for more in- We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- Brownback McCain telligence resources to be directed to- ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this ward Africa. The continent presents a Standing Rules of the Senate, hereby move vote, the yeas are 50, the nays are 45. wide range of threats, such as terrorist to bring to a close debate on Calendar No. 20, Three-fifths of the Senators duly cho- havens and the transnational move- S. 372, the Intelligence Authorization bill of sen and sworn not having voted in the 2007. ments of terrorist organizations, while Harry Reid, Chuck Schumer, Russell D. affirmative, the motion is rejected. corruption, authoritarianism and pov- Feingold, Jay Rockefeller, Evan Bayh, Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I am erty allow these conditions to fester. In Patty Murray, Dick Durbin, Jeff deeply disappointed and concerned order to bolster our national security, Bingaman, Robert Menendez, B.A. Mi- about the continuing Republican fili- we need greater information and under- kulski, Dianne Feinstein, Bill Nelson, buster of the fiscal year 2007 Intel- standing of these threats. Of particular E. Benjamin Nelson, S. Whitehouse, ligence authorization bill. This bill is concern is Somalia, where the com- Byron L. Dorgan, Blanche L. Lincoln, critical for our national security. It Ron Wyden. mittee encouraged the intelligence supports the intelligence community community to work with other agen- The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- while ensuring that Congress can con- cies of the U.S. Government on a com- imous consent, the mandatory quorum duct necessary oversight of our intel- prehensive strategic plan for stability. call has been waived. ligence activities. Failure to pass this Unfortunately, since the amendment The question is, Is it the sense of the legislation would undermine the men was originally accepted by the com- Senate that debate on S. 372, a bill to and women of our intelligence commu- mittee in May 2006, the situation in the authorize appropriations through fiscal nity who look to Congress not only for Horn of Africa has only deteriorated year 2007 for the intelligence and intel- funding but for policy guidance and and the overall U.S. Government strat- ligence-related activities of the United legal clarity. It also sends a terrible egy for addressing the crisis remains States Government, the Intelligence signal to the American people, that de- sorely inadequate. Community Management Account, and spite repeated abuses by this adminis- Finally, I am pleased that, in re- the Central Intelligence Agency Re- tration from warrantless wiretapping sponse to the concerns of Senator tirement and Disability System, and to National Security Letters, Senate WYDEN and myself, a provision creating for other purposes, shall be brought to Republicans have chosen to shield the a new exemption to the Privacy Act a close? administration from congressional has been removed. Widespread abuses The yeas and nays are mandatory scrutiny and oversight. Unchecked ex- involving National Security Letters re- under the rule. ecutive authority is contrary to our cently uncovered by the Department of The clerk will call the roll. constitutional system. And the Amer- Justice inspector general only under- The bill clerk called the roll. ican people understand well what the 9/ score why Congress must conduct vig- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the 11 Commission stressed—that strong orous oversight of how current authori- Senator from Delaware (Mr. BIDEN), congressional oversight is an essential ties are being used before providing the Senator from South Dakota (Mr. part of defending and protecting Amer- new ones. JOHNSON), and the Senator from Illi- ica. I again express my disappointment nois (Mr. OBAMA) are necessarily ab- There are a number of provisions of that the bill is being filibustered and sent. the bill that I view as particularly im- hope that the bill will soon be passed Mr. LOTT. The following Senators portant. Besides authorizing the intel- into law. are necessarily absent: the Senator ligence programs that help keep us Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I rise to talk from Kansas (Mr. BROWNBACK) and the safe, the bill improves congressional to my colleagues about my amendment Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). oversight of the intelligence commu- No. 866 to protect the classified infor- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there nity and advances the critical work of mation handled by Congress. any other Senators in the Chamber de- intelligence reform. The National Se- Having served on the Intelligence siring to vote? curity Act requires that the congres- Committee for 8 years, no one needs to The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 50, sional intelligence committees be kept tell me how important it is for Con- nays 45, as follows: fully and currently informed of all in- gress to have the information it needs [Rollcall Vote No. 131 Leg.] telligence activities. The administra- to perform oversight of the intelligence YEAS—50 tion failed to comply with this law community. with regard to its illegal warrantless However, we must be mindful that Akaka Bingaman Byrd Baucus Boxer Cantwell wiretapping program. I am pleased, much of this information could do Bayh Brown Cardin therefore, that this bill limits the abil- great damage to our national security.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.066 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4581 This bill includes what I believe are principle: competition and choice bring consequences would be because other misguided provisions related to clan- lower prices and, I might add, better countries have tried it. I recently read destine prisons, the Detainee Treat- service. a piece published in the Washington ment Act, and the enormous expansion There are some who want to change Post and written by Alberto Mingardi, of access to highly sensitive national that successful model, so we have to president of a think tank in Italy, and security information. ask ourselves: How does their plan im- I want to quote from this article be- The bill would declassify information prove on this very successful Govern- cause I believe it demonstrates my about the intelligence budget, dramati- ment program? point. He writes about the Democrats’ cally expand the number of members Since I believe being a zealous guard- plan to require the Government to set and staff with access to the most sen- ian of the taxpayers’ dollars is one of prices, or at least giving the Secretary sitive national security information the reasons my constituents sent me the authority to do that. He said: our government holds, and provide de- here, one of the first questions I ask is: It would create a Medicare drug program tails of the interrogation techniques Will the alternative plan of interfering that looks a lot like the system we have in used by our military and intelligence with this market-based competition my country, Italy, where drug prices are community. actually save taxpayers money while among the lowest in Europe. At first glance, Can anyone imagine what would hap- this might seem like an enviable model for continuing to provide choice and access America to follow. But before Pelosi rushes pen if al-Qaida became privy to the in- to prescription drugs for seniors? down the road to Italian-style health care, terrogation techniques our military The simple answer to this question let me offer a word of caution. Italy is hardly and intelligence community use? Does is, no, and you don’t have to take my a health care paradise. In fact, it’s more like anyone think al–Qaida wouldn’t adapt word for it. The nonpartisan Congres- a quagmire of red tape. and train its terrorists accordingly? sional Budget Office determined that For the most part, Italy’s lower drug prices are the product of government price con- I believe disseminating this informa- the proposal that is before us would tion is a mistake. But, if we are going trols. In Italy, these price controls have cre- have a ‘‘negligible effect’’ on reducing ated a number of problems. The govern- to disseminate it, we must put in place Government spending. ment’s attempt to force down drug prices has a mechanism to ensure this sensitive The advocates of this particular pro- not produced overall health-care spending. information does not get into the posal that is pending before us cannot Rather, it has resulted in a spike in de- hands of our enemies. And we must point to any Government source that mand—which is one reason why Italy’s give pause to those who would use this will support their claim that the Fed- health-care spending has skyrocketed, grow- information to conduct their own per- eral Government can negotiate more ing nearly 68 percent between 1995 and 2003. sonal foreign policies, as has been seen As for the quality of Italy’s care, that, too, effectively than the private market. has suffered. With demand for drugs rising, in the systematic use of leaks of classi- Specifically, CBO writes that ‘‘CBO es- the Italian government has attempted to fied information in recent years. timates that H.R. 4 would have a neg- save money by adopting reimbursement poli- My amendment will ensure this in- ligible effect on Federal spending be- cies that favor certain drugs over others. Un- formation is treated as it should be by cause we anticipate that the Secretary fortunately, the most innovative products imposing a 10-year criminal penalty on would be unable to negotiate prices often aren’t considered reimbursable by the those Members and staff who leak our across the broad range of covered part government precisely because they are the most expensive. national security secrets. D drugs that are more favorable than I urge adoption of the amendment. It’s a great system if you just need an anti- those obtained by PDPs under current biotic. But if you’re hoping to avoid open MEDICARE law.’’ Secretary Leavitt describes in heart surgery through access to a miracle Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I rise practice how having the Government drug, it can be a nightmare. today to discuss the Medicare prescrip- negotiate drug prices will not lead to He concludes. tion drug program that Congress lower costs for beneficiaries or tax- The economy is also harmed. Because it’s passed a little over 3 years ago with a payers. He has written: simply not profitable for companies to in- bipartisan majority. We have all heard We are seeing large-scale negotiations with vent cures in Italy, price controls have deci- the very impressive statistics associ- drug manufacturers, but they are being con- mated Italy’s pharmaceutical industry. So ated with the Medicare Part D pro- ducted by private plans, not the government. by attempting to hold down drug prices, the gram. More than 90 percent of seniors A robust market with a lot of competitors Italian government has deprived its citizens eligible for the benefit have drug cov- has driven down prices. It’s the magic of the of the best care without reducing health-care erage, and they will save on average market. To assume that the government, in spending. And it has deprived the country of what could be a vibrant sector of the econ- $1,200 per year. our genius, could improve on this belies the reality of a complex task. omy. In their rush to revamp Medicare, U.S. More importantly, more than 80 per- policy leaders should be careful not to make cent of enrolled seniors have expressed In fact, public opinion polls back up the same mistake. their satisfaction with the program. Secretary Leavitt’s comments. A study Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- Competition in the prescription drug by the Tarrance Group found that only sent that the article be printed in its 28 percent of seniors believe that the benefit has forced down costs far below entirety in the RECORD at the conclu- what was anticipated. In 2007, the aver- Government would do a better job in sion of my comments. age premium for the benefit was $22 a setting drug prices than a competitive The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. month, 40 percent less than projected marketplace. MENENDEZ). Without objection, it is so at the outset. The Washington Post agrees. It has ordered. The Congressional Budget Office’s written, on January 14: (See exhibit 1.) new budget estimate for the next 10 Governments are notoriously bad at set- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I also years shows that net Medicare costs for ting prices, and the U.S. Government is no- want to stress the last sentence that I the prescription drug benefit will be toriously bad at setting prices in the medical read one more time, where he says: It more than 30 percent, or $256 billion, realm. is a great system, if you need an anti- lower than originally forecast. Not As policymakers, it is also our job to biotic. But if you are hoping to avoid only are the costs for this prescription ask: What are the potential con- open heart surgery through access to a drug benefit lower than expected, but sequences of this new legislation that miracle drug, it can be a nightmare. for 2007 more drugs are also being cov- is pending before us? Quite simply, the We don’t need to go down this path. ered by participating plans than last consequences are dire. Since Govern- We don’t have to change course. Right year. The average plan now covers 4,300 ment will decide which drugs seniors now, under Medicare Part D, market drugs in its formulary versus 3,800 last have access to, seniors will be left with forces and competition have created a year, a 13-percent increase. fewer choices. wildly popular benefit that uses mar- The basic point is this: We passed a In terms of analyzing the con- ket competition to provide critical prescription drug benefit that uses sequences of this alternative plan, it is medications to seniors at costs much market competition to provide critical helpful to look at examples in other lower than projected a few short years medications to seniors at a cost much countries that have tried what Demo- ago. lower than originally projected. The re- crats are now advocating in this model. I have spent a few moments describ- sults so far demonstrate a familiar We don’t have to guess about what the ing my concern with the Democrats’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.012 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4582 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 plan to ‘‘so-called’’ negotiate prices. I negotiation but who should negotiate. cies that favor certain drugs over others. Un- would say to ration drugs is a more ac- The proponents of this legislation be- fortunately, the most innovative products curate description. But by far my big- lieve it should be the Government, and often aren’t considered reimbursable by the gest concern about this bill is, of I couldn’t disagree more. The pro- government precisely because they are the most expensive. course, another example of their pref- ponents of this legislation believe the It’s a great system if you just need an anti- erence for Government control in Government is more skilled in making biotic. But if you’re hoping to avoid open- health care rather than market-driven, pricing decisions than the free market, heart surgery through access to a miracle patient-centered approaches favored by and I have to say, I think that is drug, it can be a nightmare. And Italians are those of us on this side of the aisle. wrong. lacking more than just choice in cutting- I would urge my colleagues to call We have been presented in this legis- edge drugs. They also lack information. Ac- this debate what it is: It is not so much lation with a remarkably clear choice: cording to a recent survey, more than 50 per- about noninterference clauses in Medi- If you believe the way to improve our cent of Italy’s patients believe that the national health service cannot even supply ade- care prescription drug laws. There is a broken health care system is to em- quate information about treatments and much more importantly and poten- brace a market-driven approach that drugs. tially consequential debate about lowers costs and does not reduce The economy is also harmed. Because it’s whom Americans want to be making choices for seniors, then you will vote simply not profitable for companies to in- decisions in our health care system. Do to continue the prescription drug pro- vent cures in Italy, price controls have deci- they want it to be the Government or gram that we passed a few short years mated Italy’s pharmaceutical industry. do they want it to be patients them- ago. If you believe, as the advocates of Today not one of the world’s 50 largest drug selves and their doctors? this legislation do, that Government manufacturers has its headquarters in Italy, even though the country is the world’s sev- I recently read a quote from a physi- bureaucrats are better suited than the enth-largest economy. Because most drug cian in Switzerland that I found par- free market to make pricing decisions and biotechnology companies are outside ticularly poignant. He reminds us that: for thousands of prescription drugs, Italy’s borders, there are only 84,000 pharma- We all have a single-payer health care sys- then you will want to vote for this leg- ceutical workers in Italy’s entire drug indus- tem. Citizens always wind up paying for islation. try. The industry has become a perfect tar- health care, either through taxes, insurance I will vote for the current market- get for Italy’s politicians, because they can premiums, or out-of-pocket costs. The real driven approach that provides choices rail against it with little political downside. question is whether they will have a single- for seniors and puts patients and doc- The more we follow this path, the less likely decider system. In many European countries, tors in control rather than the Govern- it is for Italian companies to develop valu- there are single-decider systems in which able innovations—at great risk for both our governments and their agents control what ment, and I urge my colleagues to join economy and our health. medical services its citizens will or will not me. So by attempting to hold down drug prices, receive. EXHIBIT 1 the Italian government has deprived its citi- Of course, we know all too well how [From the Washington Post, Nov. 12, 2006] zens of the best care without reducing close we are in this country to having DRUG PRICE PATH TO AVOID health-care spending. And it has deprived the (By Alberto Mingardi) country of what could be a vibrant sector of a single-payer health care system. the economy. In their rush to revamp medi- Roughly, 50 cents of every health care The next speaker of the House, Rep. Nancy care, U.S. Policy leaders should be careful dollar we spend in the United States is Pelosi (D-Calif.), has let it be known that not to make the same mistake. spent directly by the U.S. Government. within her first 100 hours on the job, she will move to allow the government to negotiate Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I yield The health care economy is approxi- directly with pharmaceutical companies to the floor. mately $2 trillion annually, or one- obtain lower drug prices for Medicare pa- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I rise to sixth of the entire U.S. economy. I be- tients. express my deep concerns about S. 3, lieve we have to reform our health care Her plan would create a Medicare drug pro- the Medicare Fair Prescription Drug system, emphasizing individual choice gram that looks a lot like the system we Price Act of 2007. and trusting patients and their fami- have in my country, Italy, where drug prices are among the lowest in Europe. And that’s Back in 2003, I helped draft the Medi- lies and their doctors to make the care Modernization Act. I was one of right choices—not lawyers or, yes, even pretty low, considering that drugs in Europe average about 60 percent less than in the the Senate’s chief negotiators for the bureaucrats in Washington, DC,—to United States. Even as U.S. prices rose, House-Senate conference on this legis- make the important health care and Italian drug prices decreased by 5 percent lation. We wrote legislation that was treatment decisions. last year. approved by both Chambers of Congress So make no mistake about it, this At first glance, this might seem an envi- and signed into law by the President in bill is about a much larger issue than able model for America to follow. But before Pelosi rushes down the road to Italian-style December 2005. And by enacting this the title of the legislation itself would legislation, Medicare beneficiaries are suggest. We are not debating some health care, allow me to offer a word of caution. Italy is hardly a health-care paradise. now offered a quality prescription drug sterile provision called a noninter- In fact, it’s more like a quagmire of red tape. benefit at an affordable price. It is a ference clause. We are debating some- For the most part. Italy’s lower drug prices successful program by any measure. thing far more significant. are the product of government price con- I want to take a few minutes to talk The Washington Post believes this trols. The state purchases nearly 60 percent about the Medicare Modernization Act debate is about something much larger of the nation’s prescription drugs. And it of 2003 and what a difference it has supposedly negotiates prices directly with than the noninterference clause as made in the lives of Medicare bene- well, and they have written: pharmaceutical companies. But since the Italian government controls such a dis- ficiaries. The Democrats’ stance is troubling be- proportionate share of the market, it in ef- Today, there are 38 million Medicare cause it suggests an excessively govern- fect dictates drug prices. In Italy, these price beneficiaries and over 90 percent par- mental-led view of health care reform. The controls have created a number of problems. ticipate in the Medicare Part D pro- better approach is to let each insurer offer First, they distort the laws of supply and its own version of the right balance, see gram. Eighty percent of Medicare Part demand. Because of the country’s artificially D beneficiaries are happy with their whether it attracts customers, and then low drug prices, demand for pharmaceuticals adapt flexibly. is artificially high—higher than it would be Medicare prescription drug plan. And In my State, the Dallas Morning under free-market conditions. The point is they are happy with their plans, be- News has written: that the Government’s attempt to force cause they have a choice in coverage— When congressional Democrats press for down drug prices has not reduced overall beneficiaries are able to get a plan that this change next year, remember they’re health-care spending. Rather, it has resulted meets their needs. We don’t have a one- pushing for much more than lower prices. in a spike in demand—which is one reason size-fits-all program attempting to They’re seeking to move the line where gov- why Italy’s health-care spending has sky- stretch over 38 million people. The cost ernment should stop and the marketplace rocketed, growing nearly 68 percent between savings have been profound for both should start. 1995 and 2003. As for the quality of Italy’s care, that, too, beneficiaries and for taxpayers. I do agree with the Democrats that is suffering. With demand for drugs rising, When the Medicare Part D plan first this debate is about negotiation, but the Italian government has attempted to began in January 2006, we thought that the real question is not should we have save money by adopting reimbursement poli- the average premium would be around

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.070 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4583 $37 per month. Because of plan com- sumer choice and private-sector competition hundreds of new employees. Legions of petition, the average premium is $22 a determine prices—or should government? lobbyists would follow, each seeking month. That has reflected for tax- The success of the Medicare prescription higher Medicare payments for the drug drug benefit provides strong evidence that payers over $113 billion of savings over competition among private drug plans has companies they represent. As a Post what Congress had originally esti- contributed significantly to lowering costs. editorial noted in November, ‘‘having mated. And the other good news is that The average monthly premium has dropped the government set drug prices is a if a beneficiary hits the doughnut by 42 percent, from an estimated $38 to $22— sure way of flooding the political sys- hole—the point where the beneficiary and there is a plan available for less than $20 tem with yet more pharmaceutical lob- has to pay out of pocket for his or her a month in every state. The net Medicare byists and campaign spending.’’ prescriptions—there are now plans in cost of the drug program has fallen by close There is a proper role for government to $200 billion since its passage in 2003. in setting standards and monitoring every State that will provide coverage Seniors and people with disabilities like through the doughnut hole period. the benefit. Studies consistently show that those who provide the benefit. We As we all know, back in January, the three-quarters of Medicare beneficiaries are should ensure that beneficiaries have House of Representatives passed legis- satisfied with their coverage. Individuals access to medically necessary treat- lation that would require the prices of like being able to choose the plan that best ments. But government should not be prescription drugs received under the fits their needs. A single, one-size-fits-all in the business of setting drug prices or Medicare Part D program to be nego- drug plan would have made the choice easier, controlling access to drugs. That is a tiated by the Secretary of Health and and Congress did create a standard plan. But first step toward the type of govern- Human Services. Late last week, the fewer than 15 percent of enrollees have se- ment-run health care that the Amer- lected that standard plan—opting instead for Senate Finance Committee also ap- plans with lower premiums, no deductibles ican people have always rejected. proved S. 3, the Medicare Fair Pre- and enhanced coverage. There are many ways the administra- scription Drug Price Act of 2007. While Despite the success of the benefit, some tion and Congress can work together to this legislation does not mandate that people believe government can do a better make health care more affordable and the Secretary negotiate drug prices for job of lowering prices than a competitive accessible. But undermining the Medi- the Medicare Part D benefit, it gives marketplace. Legislation under consider- care prescription drug benefit, which the Secretary the discretion to do so. ation would require the secretary of health has improved the lives and health of and human services to negotiate and set the millions of seniors and people with dis- Any way you look at it, Congress re- prices of drugs. In effect, one government of- quiring the Secretary to negotiate pre- ficial would set more than 4,400 prices for dif- abilities, is not one of them. scription drug prices would lead to a ferent drugs, making decisions that would be Secretary Leavitt is correct—pro- one-size-fits-all drug plan which would better made by millions of individual con- viding flexible prescription drug plans result in fewer choices. Beneficiaries sumers. to beneficiaries should be one of our would have less satisfaction with a There is also the danger that government top goals. Getting Medicare bene- one-size-fits-all plan. And, in my opin- price setting would limit drug choices. Medi- ficiaries the best price possible for care provides access to the broadest array of their prescription drugs should be one ion, drug prices will not be lower. prescription drugs, including the newest In addition, beneficiaries would have drugs. But price negotiation inevitably re- of our top goals. And offering Medicare fewer choices. When you negotiate drug sults in the withholding of access to some beneficiaries high quality prescription prices, there is really only one way to drugs to get manufacturers to lower prices. drug plans should be one of our top do it. You limit the choices available. The Department of Veterans Affairs, often goals. In my reading of this legislation, You say I am going to take your medi- cited as an example of how government can passage will result in none of these cation off your drug plan or I am only negotiate prices, operates an excellent pro- goals being achieved and, in fact could going to pay X amount for a drug, a gram for veterans, but the VA formulary ex- result in the Medicare prescription cludes a number of new drugs covered by the drug benefit becoming a national for- price so low that perhaps the manufac- Medicare prescription benefit. Even Lipitor, turer cannot participate. If the Govern- the world’s best-selling drug, isn’t on the VA mulary which could result in higher ment starts doing that, suddenly you formulary. That may be one reason more prices for drugs and limited choices for have the Government making choices than a million veterans are also getting drug Medicare beneficiaries. about who can get what drug as op- coverage through Medicare. When we were drafting this bill, we posed to beneficiaries and their doctors Some observers point to the massive buy- took great care to provide protections making those decisions. ing power of the federal government as the to Medicare beneficiaries who decided Currently there are over 4,400 drugs means to exert clout over drug companies, to participate in the Medicare Pre- but the federal government has nowhere near scription Drug Plan. We wanted to pro- available on Medicare Part D plans. the market power of the private sector. Pri- Beneficiaries may choose a plan that vate-sector insurance plans and pharmacy vide beneficiaries with a drug benefit meets their needs. That is exactly why benefit managers, who negotiate prices be- that would not cost them an arm and a 80 percent of Medicare Part D bene- tween drug companies and pharmacies, cover leg, and that would allow access to a ficiaries are happy. And for those who about 241 million people, or 80 percent of the wide range of prescription drug aren’t, the good news is we can help population. Medicare could cover at most 43 choices. find a plan that serves them better. If million. In order to preserve those choices, we had one plan, one formulary, then The independent Congressional Budg- the Medicare Modernization Act pro- we would have a lot more unhappy peo- et Office has said that government hibits the Secretary from establishing ple. price negotiation would have a ‘‘neg- a formulary. If the Secretary cannot And how does the Secretary of ligible effect on federal spending.’’ And lower prices without a formulary and if Health and Human Services feel about previous experience with Congress and it is prohibited by law for the Sec- this new responsibility? I would like to Medicare regulating drug prices has retary to establish a formulary then I take a minute to read an editorial that not been reassuring. Medicare Part B, ask you—what is the purpose of this appeared in the Washington Post on which covers physician services, out- bill? January 11, 2007. This editorial was patient hospital care and other serv- I believe that, should this bill be- written by Secretary Mike Leavitt, not ices, sets the prices for some medi- come law, it will be no time before its only a good friend of mine but a very cines—notably a number of cancer supporters decide that now they want thoughtful, knowledgeable, and open- drugs. It has a history of reimbursing the Secretary to establish a formulary. minded Secretary of HHS as far as at rates substantially greater than pre- I think this bill is a Trojan horse with health care policy is concerned. ‘‘Medi- vailing prices. In 2005, Part B drug a Medicare formulary hidden inside. care And the Market Government spending increased by almost 20 per- Mr. President, I urge my colleagues Shouldn’t Be Negotiating Prescription cent. to think carefully about this issue. I Prices,’’ by Mike Leavitt, Thursday, If the Federal Government begins urge them to talk to their Medicare January 11, 2007; Page A25: picking drugs and setting prices for all beneficiaries in their states and ask We all want people with Medicare to get Medicare beneficiaries, administrative them whether or not they are happy the prescription drugs they need at the low- costs would add a new burden to tax- with their prescription drug plans. I be- est possible prices. The issue before Congress payers. The Department of Health and lieve that they will find that almost this week is how best to do that. Should con- Human Services would have to hire everyone is happy with their current

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.072 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4584 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 benefit and changing this benefit is a father making $90,000 a year in a place limiting savings vehicles for health terrible mistake on our part. like Virginia or New York or California and retirement. They will raise taxes FEDERAL INCOME TAX FILING DEADLINE or New Jersey are not rich. They are on individuals, hiking rates and hurt- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, today the doing the best they can to provide for ing families. And they will raise taxes tax man cometh. their families. And once you factor in on businesses, killing industry and Americans have April 17 circled on taxes, housing, clothing, medical care, choking initiative. their calendars, and not with a smiley and college savings, those paychecks Conservatives are fond of saying that face. do not go that far. ideas have consequences. They cer- This year, roughly 135 million Ameri- The middle class is already paying tainly do. There are important dif- cans sat down to complete their tax re- out much more in taxes than is spent ferences between the parties. In their turns. Many have made the unfortu- by the Government on its behalf. guts, Democrats distrust markets, be- nate discovery that they owe addi- According to the Tax Foundation, an lieve that more Government interven- tional money to the IRS. individual making over $65,000 a year tion and Government programs are the Others are shocked to learn that they pays $7,217 more in taxes every year answer, and are willing to hike taxes to owe something called the alternative than is spent for him or her. achieve their goals. minimum tax. But for some Members of this body, Those of us on this side of the aisle I would like to emphasize one point our system is still not progressive believe in personal responsibility, low today, a point that many of my con- enough. taxes, and encouraging the freedom, stituents have learned the hard way: I know that there are some policy entrepreneurialism, and dynamism of their tax burden is already too high. wonks and political strategists who the American people. Ideas have consequences. One leads For middle-class Americans, tax day think the days of tax revolt are over. to economic prosperity; the other leads has become an aggravation at best, and Apparently we are at some to national stagnation. I want my con- an outrage at worst. postpartisan, end of history, where stituents to know that on these de- Many Utahns, as well as distraught Americans just accept big government bates to come, I stand with the tax- taxpayers throughout the Nation, and big bites out of their paychecks. payers. We need to be encouraging in- know the look of tax overload. They I for one am not buying it. dustry. We need to be growing our see it when they look in the mirror, It seems some things never change in economy. We need to be lowering and and they see it when they look at their this country. One of those things is the commit- simplifying our tax burden. spouse. Today’s Democratic majority prom- There is the kitchen table. A late ment of Americans to their rights of life, liberty, and property. ised real change. Instead, we are get- night. Some scattered papers and re- ting the same tired song. They are not ceipts. An elbow on the table. And a Americans remain very jealous of their liberties, and rightly so. Chief taking our Nation’s fiscal woes seri- hand on the forehead in disbelief. This ously. They are hoping Americans will is the look of overtaxed Americans. It among our liberties is the freedom to use the money you earn through your not object when their taxes are hiked is the look of misery and confusion. It to pay for our coming entitlement does not need to be this way. hard work and initiative, to build your business, buy a home, and take care of train wreck. There are economic burdens as well, They should think twice before going your family. and that burden is only going to grow down this road. Middle-class Ameri- Working hard to fund some new Gov- if the Democrats get their way. cans, such as my constituents in Utah, ernment bureaucracy is not at the top Many of us pay too much in taxes al- are trying to get their taxes done by of the list. If taxes go up significantly, ready. But the policies of the congres- midnight tonight. They want their tax the party responsible is going to be in sional majority are a blueprint for even burden lowered, and so do I. There are for a rude awakening. They are going higher taxes. Neither our citizens nor lots of promises made by our friends on to be reminded, with grave electoral our economy can bear much more. the other side to get rid of the AMT. consequences, that the Government Middle-class Americans are over- They have had at least three chances can take only so much. taxed. to vote to get rid of the AMT for the Along with many of my colleagues on According to the Tax Foundation, vast majority in the middle class and this side of the aisle, I think our tax this year Americans will work 120 days they have refused do so. burden is still too high. Many Ameri- to pay their total tax burden. If left unchecked, the AMT is going cans still pay too much. The estate tax Let’s put this in perspective. They to, within the next 10 years, be assessed still destroys family businesses. Too will work 62 days to pay for their house on over 35 million Americans. Remem- many startup businesses are killed off and home. They will work 52 days for ber, it started out because there were by taxes before they have begun. We health and medical care. They will about 159 people who did not pay their need to be providing tax incentives so work 30 days for food. But they will taxes, people who were immensely rich. people can responsibly save for their work 120 days to pay their taxes. Now we are talking up to 25 million retirement and health care. We need to If you told my parents’ generation Americans as we stand here today, and be coming up with innovative tax poli- that their tax burden would be that up to 35 million Americans within the cies and entitlement reforms. high, they would have thought we lost next ten years. I am calling on my col- Instead, the Democrats are keeping a war to France. leagues on the other side to live up to mum as Medicare and Social Security But the Democrats are not satisfied. their campaign promises and let us get take on water, keeping to themselves They want the so-called rich to pay rid of AMT. It is very unfair to the their foolproof plan to bail us out: more of their so-called fair share. middle class, and frankly, for most Raise taxes. Let me translate. By ‘‘rich’’ they Americans. mean anyone with a job. The combined unfunded liability for I promise to do all I can to see we do And by ‘‘fair share,’’ they mean Social Security and Medicare is $84 that. empty your wallet. trillion. That is ‘‘trillion’’ dollars. I yield the floor. According to recent data from the Where is that money coming from? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- IRS, persons making more than $30,122, They are having a hard time coming up ator from Georgia is recognized. or the top 50 percent of all income with money today for a $50 billion 1- Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, I earners, paid 97 percent of all income year fix for the AMT, the alternative ask unanimous consent to speak as if taxes in 2004, the latest year there were minimum tax. Where are they going to in morning business. data available. get $84 trillion? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Those who made more than $60,041 in Do not worry, they tell us; they are objection, it is so ordered. 2004, the top 25 percent, paid 85 percent going to fix Social Security and Medi- Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. President, I of all income taxes. care. But fixing it their way will break rise today to oppose S. 372, the fiscal These people are not rich. the backs of middle-class taxpayers. year 2007 Intelligence authorization As one of my Democratic colleagues Mark my words, they will raise taxes bill, in its current form. I believe, with- noted earlier this year, a mother and a on the middle class, taking away or out amendment, this legislation will

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.073 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4585 deteriorate the existing working rela- know. As a member of the Intelligence Code, and would replace it with a sim- tionship and trust the intelligence Committee, I recognize there are some pler, fairer means of collecting rev- community has with Congress. highly sensitive matters I do not have enue. Specifically, the Fair Tax Act I voted against this legislation in a need to know, and I support having would repeal the individual income both the Intelligence Committee and limited notification when absolutely tax, the corporate income tax, capital the Armed Services Committee because necessary to protect the information. gains tax, all payroll taxes, self-em- I believed significant alterations need- Frequently the Congressional leader- ployment tax, and the estate and gift ed to be made before I could offer my ship will be informed of tightly con- taxes in lieu of a 23-percent tax on the support. As a member of the Intel- trolled classified operations in which final sale of all goods and services. ligence Committee, I am fully cog- limiting knowledge of them is appro- Elimination of these inefficient tax- nizant of the importance of passing an priate. Many of us do not have a need ing mechanisms would bring about authorization bill to guide our intel- to know about various sensitive oper- equality and simplicity to our overly ligence community as well as to advise ations which, if leaked, could result in complex tax system. Moreover, the the Senate appropriations process. lives being lost as well as the termi- Fair Tax Act would abrogate any dou- Passing an authorization bill reasserts nation of Congressional access to infor- ble taxation that occurs under our cur- much needed Congressional oversight mation. rent tax system because it would proof the intelligence community, and it Additionally, I have confidence in the vide tax relief for business-to-business ensures that the Senate is relevant on chairman and vice chairman of the In- transactions. These transactions, in- national security issues that are criti- telligence Committee. I count on the cluding used-product transactions that cally important. leaders of the committee to be respon- have already been taxed, are not sub- At this time, I question whether the sible for determining when additional ject to the sales tax. Senate is serious about the need to ex- access to information is warranted and More importantly, under the Fair amine all possible improvements to the for requesting that additional members Tax Act, the Federal Government’s bill or is willing to devote the time be briefed as necessary. Section 304 revenue would go unchanged. Social necessary to discuss and debate all seeks to abandon these practices which Security and Medicare benefits would amendments. Given the natural and have been refined over three decades of remain untouched under the Fair Tax conflicting interests involved, it is pru- aggressive Congressional oversight. bill, and there would be no financial re- dent that Congress act carefully and Next, section 107 requires the public ductions to either one of these vital work with the executive branch to en- disclosure of the National Intelligence programs. Instead, the source of the sure that its needs are met, rather than Program budget requests and Congres- trust fund revenue for these two pro- hastily making demands through legis- sional authorizations and appropria- grams would be replaced simply by lation that many provisions of this bill tions for the intelligence community. consumption tax revenue instead of attempt to do. This will only create Disclosing these figures to the public payroll tax revenue. further friction between the two also discloses them to our enemies who Finally, under the Fair Tax Act, branches. I believe there are other will be watching for fluctuations in every American would receive a ways to ensure effective oversight. these figures, which may damage intel- monthly rebate check equal to spend- Some sections of this bill, particu- ligence sources and methods over time. ing, up to the Federal poverty level ac- Additionally, declassifying the over- larly sections 304 and 107, are problem- cording to the Department of Health all budget for the intelligence commu- atic to me, and I believe they will not and Human Services guidelines. This nity may lead others to demand that further meaningful Congressional over- rebate would ensure that no American each agency declassify their budget. No sight. Therefore, I have offered amend- pays taxes on the purchase of neces- doubt this would have grave effects on ments to strike these sections and urge sities. This is a critical component. my colleagues to support my amend- the capabilities of our intelligence INVEST IN AMERICA ACT ments. agencies. For those reasons I oppose S. Let me detail my concerns with these 372 in its current form and the man- Mr. President, I also rise today as an two sections. First, section 304 requires agers’ amendment to it. I urge my col- original cosponsor of the Invest in the intelligence community to notify leagues to support my amendments to America Act. While I firmly believe all of the members of the Senate and strengthen this bill. significant overhaul of the Tax Code is House Intelligence Committees when- FAIR TAX ACT the best way to achieve absolute fair- ever the House and Senate leadership Mr. President, today is the deadline ness and transparency in our tax sys- and committee leaders are briefed on for all taxes to be filed. As many mil- tem, until we actually get to that highly sensitive intelligence or covert lions of Americans rush to file their point, we simply cannot allow the cur- actions. It requires that the notifica- taxes, I rise to bring attention to our rent rate reductions and other provi- tion include a statement of the reasons horribly broken, overly complex, and sions of the 2001–2003 tax relief pack- why only the leadership was informed, unfair American tax system. I have and ages to expire, which is what the as well as a description of the main fea- will continue to support significant re- Democrats have proposed in their tures of the matter. form of the Tax Code in this country, budget for the 2008 fiscal year. This There is a history of compromise and as I have consistently done during my would be a drastic blow to the economy cooperation between the executive and service in Congress. and a misguided step in the wrong di- legislative branches regarding the Accordingly, I have recently intro- rection. The Invest in America Act sharing of sensitive intelligence with duced the Fair Tax Act of 2007 on be- would make the individual tax rates Congress. The President has the duty half of myself, my colleague from permanent. The lower rates have been to protect intelligence sources and Georgia, Senator ISAKSON, Senator essential to our continued economic methods. One such way is to limit the COBURN, and Senator CORNYN, because growth over the past several years, and number of people who are privy to the we are in desperate need of tax reform. have encouraged Americans to work information. Congress recognized this Imagine the economic freedom and harder, be more productive, and retain duty in the National Security Act, purchasing power provided by a tax more of their hard-earned money. which states that information be system that would allow us to retain Additionally, this bill corrects cur- shared: 100 percent of our earnings while main- rent wrongs in our tax codes, such as with due regard for the protection from un- taining the benefits of Government- the death tax and the AMT. It would authorized disclosure of classified informa- sponsored programs, and allowing them make the repeal of the death tax per- tion relating to sensitive intelligence to flourish. Such would be the case manent, and would save more than sources or methods or other exceptionally under the system proposed in the Fair 130,000 families each year from con- sensitive matters. Tax Act. fronting a loss of the family farms, The reporting requirement in section The Fair Tax Act would create a na- ranches, or family-owned businesses. It 304 may disclose the very sensitive in- tional sales tax as the primary source would permanently repeal the AMT formation the President has deter- of Federal revenue, would eliminate which, while designed to ensure every mined only the leadership has a need to our current archaic and inefficient Tax American pays some minimum tax, is

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.074 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4586 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 in fact now hitting more and more mid- can’t fully describe the grief we all feel ward. The excuses, a fourth grade stu- dle-income families, and this it was not as the weight of this tragedy settles dent could see through, maybe a second designed to do. over our Nation. My prayer is that grade student. Most significant to the growth of our through faith and resolve, our country They say: Democrats wouldn’t allow economy, this bill would also make the will emerge from this disaster in unity us to offer amendments. That is abso- current reduced capital gains and divi- and strength as together we find heal- lutely false, untrue. From the very be- dend rates permanent. Since the reducing. While I know that we are still ginning, when they refused to let us tion of these investment rates in 2003, learning the facts surrounding these proceed to the bill initially and we had it has become easier for new busi- despicable acts, it is my hope that we to file cloture, cloture was invoked be- nesses, and existing ones, to attract can all work together and renew our cause it gave them 30 hours to stall the capital they need to start, succeed, commitment to ensure that our com- doing nothing. I said that during that and expand. munities and schools are safe from 30-hour period amendments could be of- Moreover, with greater than half of similar future events. fered. Not a single amendment was all Americans owning stock, middle- I join my colleagues in the Senate proffered. class families, seniors, and other Amer- who have spoken so eloquently on this So then we come to cloture on the icans are greatly benefitting from matter and our entire Nation in bill itself. Even the vice chairman of these lower rates, including the 5-per- mourning the 32 lives lost yesterday, the committee did not vote to go for- cent rate, which drops to zero percent and I pray for the strength of our coun- ward with this legislation. Again, I in 2008. try during this time of grief and sor- said: OK, cloture wasn’t invoked. Let’s The proposals in this bill would also row. go ahead and offer some amendments. help American families by making per- Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, news of They did. Guess what the first amend- manent the increased child tax credit, yesterday’s tragic killings at Virginia ment was to show how serious they are the marriage penalty relief, the adop- Tech reached me piecemeal as I was about the intelligence operations of tion tax credit, the tuition deduction, traveling back to Washington. this country. An amendment was of- and the teacher deduction. These provi- We are still far from final answers fered by a Republican 34 pages long sions, along with other proposals in the and explanations. Even today, facts are dealing with immigration which shows Invest in America Act, make perma- still being confirmed, evidence is still how they want to solve the immigra- nent the R&D tax credit and the in- being collected, and the impact of the tion problems of this country and the creased small business expensing rates, tragedy is still reverberating. intelligence problems. This is no place enabling both the taxpayer and the Last night, the Senate formally re- for immigration. We are going to de- American economy to grow. acted to these terrible events through bate immigration the last 2 weeks of Most importantly, the Invest in a resolution of sympathy. this work period. America Act sets forth a tax system I rise today to personally express my It is beyond my ability to com- that would gave back to those who in- sorrow and condolences to the family prehend how Senators on this side of vest in the strengthening of the Amer- and friends of the victims, to the sur- the aisle, looking over there, could ican economy. We need to overhaul our vivors, and to the Virginia Tech com- vote this way, people whom I have al- tax system, impose fairness, and imple- munity at large. The magnitude of this ways believed to be patriots. Why ment policies that encourage economic tragedy is unimaginable. You are in would they not vote on this? I will tell growth rather than stifle it. That is my thoughts and prayers, and I hope you why they didn’t. Vice President what Georgians want and deserve, and you know that the hearts of millions of CHENEY wants to be the czar of intel- that is what Americans want and de- Americans go out to you in your time ligence of this country, as he has been serve. of grief. for 6 years. He can rest well tonight be- VIRGINIA TECH TRAGEDY As we come to understand more cause he is going to be able to con- I rise today with a very heavy heart about the events that unfolded so trag- tinue, without this bill setting certain to extend my condolences to the fami- ically yesterday, there will be plenty of standards for interrogation with our lies who lost loved ones as a result of time for us to argue about policy and intelligence agencies and other things yesterday’s tragic shootings on the politics and how to distribute blame. that on a bipartisan basis were said to Virginia Tech campus. One of those Today we should be mourning the loss be important to improve the intel- victims includes a young man, 22-year- of these lives, and doing what we can ligence apparatus of our country. old Ryan Clark of Martinez, GA, who to help the wounded and comfort the The amendments offered this after- served as a resident adviser at West bereaved. noon were not in good faith. A 34-page Ambler Johnston dormitory where the I yield the floor. immigration amendment on an Intel- first shooting occurred. Ryan was set The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- ligence authorization bill? They were to graduate this spring with a degree in jority leader is recognized. nothing more than an effort to make biology and English, and he hoped to Mr. REID. Mr. President, I don’t need the White House happy. It is no secret. pursue a Ph.D., a pretty amazing young to remind my colleagues that our coun- Senators have told Senators on this man from an academic standpoint. In try is at war. We face tremendous chal- side that is why they voted against clo- his spare time, he also helped out the lenges in keeping America safe. On the ture: they were told to do so by the disadvantaged children in the area, as other side of the aisle, in the last cou- White House. well as disabled children. On this par- ple of days we have heard some talk Maybe my friends on the other side ticular day, he came to the rescue of about the Intelligence authorization of the aisle think it is not important, the first victim and, as a result, be- bill which the Republican majority that they can pull this one off and get came a victim himself. failed to pass in 2 separate years, the away with it. We have a war on terror I wish to convey my extreme sorrow first time in 27 years this bill has not going on, and we have intelligence to his family as they try to grasp the been passed, but it wasn’t passed the agencies—16 in number—that are work- reality and gain a better understanding last 2 years. ing every day trying to keep ahead of of what has happened. While he was This year I thought it would be good the bad guys. The bipartisan bill that still in his very young years, it is clear if we passed an Intelligence authoriza- has been before the Senate for the last that he had already impacted so many tion bill. We have 16 agencies that deal several days was drafted based upon lives and in so many different ways. with the espionage, the security, the what the intelligence agencies thought While I know that words may be of lit- intelligence of our Nation. A bipartisan they needed to improve their ability to tle comfort at this time, the Clark bill came out of the Intelligence Com- collect information. I don’t think it is family and all of the families involved mittee, the committee agreeing that going to work. The credibility of the and the Virginia Tech community will something should be done. But it gets Vice President is not very high in this remain in my prayers as we try to find over here and word comes from the country. For reasons like this, it is ap- peace in the coming days. White House: Don’t let that bill go. parent why that is. It is difficult to fathom how some- Like lemmings off a cliff, the Repub- The White House talks about the war thing like this could happen. Words licans do not allow this bill to go for- on terror; let’s work together to do

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.076 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4587 something about it. Step back a Nation’s veterans a discount of about who does not think the Government minute. Is it political posturing to 50 percent on average, the same kind of should use the bulk discount process of think that the intelligence agencies of thing that large insurance companies negotiating directly with the drug in- this country that should have legisla- will do. But under this Medicare law— dustry on behalf of 40 million Medicare tion that should be passed every year again, written by the drug companies, beneficiaries. Yet, they claim, in bold not be passed for 3 years? written by the insurance companies, print, in a full-page ad that costs tens I am very disappointed. I say this not pushed through because of the lobbying of thousands of dollars—not much for in a mean or argumentative way. I am force and the advertisements and all the drug industry, to be sure—that terribly disappointed. If the Presiding that the drug industry did and the in- ‘‘89% of Voters Oppose Government Ne- Officer, other Senators on this floor, if surance industry did—Medicare is pro- gotiation of Medicare Drug Prices.’’ I ever as the leader came to one of you hibited under law from negotiating If you read the small print, it says: and said: We are not going to let the bulk discounts on prescription drugs. Majorities of Democratic, Republican and intelligence bill go forward this year, I That is a prohibition only the drug in- Independent voters do not want the govern- think my caucus would tell me what to dustry and their friends in Congress— ment negotiating prescription drug prices do with my suggestion. But apparently and they number many—could love. under Medicare. In fact, 89 percent oppose the White House has more sway than When Medicare has to pay higher government negotiation if it could limit ac- the American people to this group prices for medicines, dollars are taken cess to new prescription medications. across the aisle. That is really too bad. from taxpayers’ pockets and placed di- Well, no kidding, if it limits access, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- rectly into the pockets of the multi- then they say they do not like it. But, ator from Ohio. national drug industry. For many of course, they do not. And, of course, because of high drug company prices, f years, I have taken bus trips with senior citizens to Canada, when I was in we are seeing limited access to pre- MORNING BUSINESS the House of Representatives, from my scription drugs. Mr. BROWN. I ask unanimous con- northern Ohio congressional district. How many times, I say to the Pre- sent that there now be a period of We drove up through Detroit to Wind- siding Officer, in New Jersey or in Ohio morning business with Senators per- sor to allow senior citizens to buy pre- or in Nevada or in Iowa do we hear sto- mitted to speak therein for up to 10 scription drugs at a discount of 50, 60, ries from our constituents who have minutes each. 70 percent because the Canadians have decided, because they cannot quite af- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without a system where they negotiate drug ford the drugs, they are going to cut a objection, it is so ordered. prices directly with the manufacturer. pill in half so their prescription will f It is the same drugs, the same manu- last twice as long, or they are only facturer, the same packaging. The only going to take a tablet every other day, MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG even though they are prescribed to BENEFIT difference between the medicine sold here and the medicine sold in Canada is take it every day, so their prescription Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, Ameri- the price. lasts longer? How often do we have to cans as much as any people on Earth That is the same in country after hear that? have a sense of fair play. That is why I country after country. We pay two and That is the issue of access, that too believe 3 or 4 years ago, when the Medi- three and four times more for prescrip- many seniors, too many middle-class care law was passed literally in the tion drugs than people in any other Americans, too many low-income middle of the night in the House of country given the same drug, the same Americans simply cannot afford to pay Representatives, where the Presiding dosage, the same manufacturer. It is a for their prescription drugs because the Officer and I served at that time, by great deal for the drug industry and a price is so high because of the drug one vote—the rollcall vote was kept bum deal for consumers, especially for companies, with their billions of dol- open for 3 hours, arms were twisted, senior citizens and for taxpayers in our lars in advertising, with their hundreds calls from the President and pleas and country. of millions of dollars they spend on 600 all kinds of begging on the House floor, Medicare is the single largest pre- lobbyists in this institution. There are, and who knows what else—that is why scription drug consumer in the coun- at last count, over 600 people paid by people were angry with the way the try, and jacked-up prices jeopardize the drug industry to lobby this Con- Medicare law passed. They were also Medicare’s future. gress. There are only 535 of us here in angry especially because of the sense of The legislation we will consider to- Congress; 100 in the Senate, 435 in the betrayal they felt with the Medicare morrow ends the prohibition on price House. They have more than 600 lobby- law that clearly was written by the negotiations. It takes the handcuffs off ists to talk to us. These most recent drug companies and for the drug com- Medicare and enables Medicare to ne- ads are particularly offensive. panies and by the insurance companies gotiate price discounts—the kind of Allowing Medicare to negotiate lower and for the insurance companies. discounts Medicare should receive, priced medicines will not reduce access In fact, that Medicare law meant as given the huge volume of medicines it to medicines, it will increase access. If much as $200 billion in extra profits for purchases. we get lower priced drugs, more people the drug industry and meant as much Medicare is a system with more than who have these prescriptions will be as $70 or $80 billion in directed sub- 40 million Americans in that system. able to fully fill their prescriptions so, sidies for insurance companies to en- That kind of bulk discount buying will in fact, they will get access to drugs. tice—the word our friends used—entice save billions—tens of billions—of dol- That is why lower prices for Medicare those insurance companies to write lars for American taxpayers and for mean lower copayments for seniors, standalone Medicare prescription drug senior citizens. and that means increased access to coverage. The drug industry, however, has medicines. Americans know the score. Ameri- taken to the airwaves, as it always That is why AARP supports allowing cans understand much about this whole does, and gone to Nation’s newspapers price negotiations. That is why the Al- Medicare law. We all understand the to fight this legislation. In the Wash- liance for Retired Americans supports major employee groups typically in our ington Post today is an example of an allowing price negotiations. That is system negotiate bulk discounts on outrageous kind of ad the drug indus- why the Committee to Preserve Social prescription drugs. Americans also un- try has written: ‘‘89% of Voters Oppose Security and Medicare supports allow- derstand that the VA negotiates bulk Government Negotiation of Medicare ing price negotiations. discounts on prescription drugs. The Drug Prices.’’ That is what it says: ‘‘89 The drug industry, again, stooped VA, which ensures millions of our Na- percent of Voters Oppose Government pretty low with this misleading poll, tion’s veterans, will go to the drug in- Negotiation of Medicare Drug Prices.’’ and then with this very expensive— dustry, company by company, and ne- That does not even pass the straight- tens of thousands of dollars for this one gotiate on a drug formulary, negotiate face test. I hardly know anyone in ad in one newspaper in the country. I a price that gives the Government pay- Ohio—a Democrat, a Republican, an wonder if there is any line the drug in- ing for these prescription drugs for our independent—I hardly know anyone dustry would not cross when it comes

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.078 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4588 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 to preserving the sweetheart deal they graduated from Basic High School in and excellence in collaboration can be have in this country, where they have 1991 and the University of Nevada, Las found at the Army Medical Department far too many politicians in the Senate Vegas in 1996 with degrees in secondary Center and School, located at Fort and in the House, far too many of our education and sports medicine and cer- Sam Houston, which trains Army, Air colleagues, who simply, again, over and tification in athletic training. As a stu- Force, and VA nurses. over and over, do the drug companies’ dent teacher, Felix was selected as a This year, U.S. News and World Re- bidding. Distinguished Student Teacher of the port ranked the Army Medical Depart- Every other developed country in the Year Award. He began his teaching ca- ment Center and School second in the world, as I said earlier, gets better reer at Swainston Middle School in Nation for their anesthesia nursing priced prescription drugs than we do. 1997, and thereafter served as a Phys- program. They missed first place by Every other developed country in the ical Education Coach and Athletic just a tenth of one point, and have im- world gets better prices than we do. Trainer at Western High School and proved their score from 3.8 out of 5.0 in That is because these countries do not Health Teacher and Athletic Trainer at 2003, to 4.0 out of 5.0 in 2007. This nota- put up with the grossly inflated drug Desert Pines High School. ble achievement brings added credi- prices our Nation does. It is because Felix went above and beyond his job bility to their already prestigious pro- their drug company lobbyists or their responsibilities in order to provide stu- gram. drug company media campaigns simply dents with the opportunity to learn Since 2004, VA and DOD have may not be as effective in France and and succeed. He spent countless hours partnered to train VA nurse Canada and Germany and Israel and treating students who had limited ac- anaesthetists to work in the VA health Japan and Mexico, and all over the cess to health care. Oftentimes, he care system, the largest health care world, where drug prices are a half or a would arrive early to school in order to system in the country. The first class third or a fourth of what they are here. provide treatments, limited therapy, or of VA nurse anesthetists recently grad- We will put up with most anything, counseling to students who simply uated from the Army Medical Depart- it seems, if an industry has deep needed a listening ear. Felix had out- ment Center and School. Their gradua- enough pockets and an army of lobby- standing listening skills and frequently tion represents what I hope will be a ists. Prohibiting the Government from utilized his networking base to connect steady flow of highly qualified VA negotiating volume discounts on pre- students with the proper resources. As nurse anesthetists using their skills scription drugs simply makes no sense. one of his former students noted, ‘‘Not and knowledge to give veterans the The Government negotiates the price only did Mr. Rivera teach health, he high-quality health care they have of everything else it buys. also taught us about life and steps we earned through service. I realize that, with the private sector When the Architect of the Capitol needed to take in order to become suc- offering six-figure salaries for nurse buys carpeting for the Senate floor—as cessful.’’ A fellow teacher at Desert anesthetists, those who chose to work we look around at this very nice blue Pines High School described him as a within the military and VA do so not carpet here—they do not take the man- ‘‘role model for students who took for personal gain. They stay to respond ufacturer’s word that a fair price would great pride in every lesson that he to the higher calling of caring for serv- impair fiber research. We do not say taught.’’ A teacher and friend further icemembers and veterans in their commented on his congenial person- whatever the carpet makers want, we times of need, and are to be com- ality, ‘‘He was the kind of person who will pay because it costs a lot to do mended for their dedication and their had an innate ability to get right to this research to make these rugs beau- work. In that spirit, I say ‘e tiful and make this carpet last, when the point, an ear-to-ear smile that was ho’omaika’i ia’oukou, or congratula- so many feet walk over it. contagious and a well-known sense of tions, to the graduates, students, fac- When the Park Service buys ranger humor.’’ ulty, staff, and others who have worked It is clear that Felix was a dedicated uniforms, it does not take the first bid to make the Army Medical Department educator, a role model, and a mentor that comes in. It gets good quality at Center and School the success that it is who left a lasting impression on his the lowest price possible. today. But with drugs, the President and his students. On April 18, 2007, family, allies here in Congress—and we know friends, students, and colleagues will f how much money the drug industry honor his legacy by dedicating a mural RECOGNITION OF CANUTE gave to President Bush; and we know with the words ‘‘hard as steel with a DALMASSE the kinds of effective lobbying the drug heart of gold’’ in the training room at Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, today I industry employs in the Senate—the Desert Pines High School, where he honor Canute Dalmasse of Stowe, VT, President and his allies here in Con- spent much of his time counseling stu- who is retiring after 36 years of dedi- gress say the Government must pay dents. I join in honoring Felix and ex- cated service to the State of Vermont, any price the drug industry wants to tend my deepest sympathies to his working to conserve, protect, and en- charge. family and friends, especially his wife hance our State’s natural resources. That policy is more than a mistake; and high school sweetheart, Alice His extraordinary contribution to the it is a joke on the American people. It ‘‘Cookie’’ Masterson and children, An- stewardship of Vermont’s natural envi- is a betrayal of our constituents. The thony and Felicia. He is deeply missed ronment calls for special recognition. drug companies are laughing all the and his service and dedication to the Canute retires as the deputy sec- way to the bank. students of Clark County will always retary of the Vermont Agency of Nat- We need to pass this legislation to- be greatly appreciated. ural Resources, overseeing fish, wild- morrow and let Medicare bargain for f life, forests, parks, recreation, and en- the prices that Medicare beneficiaries vironmental conservation programs ARMY MEDICAL DEPARTMENT deserve. and recently served with distinction as CENTER AND SCHOOL ACHIEVE- acting secretary. His career began in f MENTS 1971 as one of the first district coordi- REMEMBERING FELIX WILLIAM Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, when I nators implementing Vermont’s land- RIVERA began my chairmanship of the Vet- mark Act 250 environmental law that Mr. REID. Mr. President, I rise today erans’ Affairs committee this January, uses a holistic approach looking at en- to honor the memory of a great Nevada I assured my colleagues that we would vironmental, visual, and social criteria educator and coach, Felix William Ri- renew our focus on the need for co- to assess potential development im- vera. Felix, a physical and health edu- operation and collaboration between pacts. A proven leader and innovator, cation teacher in the Clark County the Department of Defense and the De- he has served as director of the Office School District in Las Vegas, NV, was partment of Veterans Affairs. As we of Water Resources and commissioner involved in a fatal car accident on Feb- look at the way these two entities of the Department of Environmental ruary 8, 2007. work together, it is important that we Conservation. Felix proudly lived in the Las Vegas highlight the good work and progress Canute is an avid boater and angler metropolitan area all of his life. He being made. One example of progress on Lake Champlain and an unflinching

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.080 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4589 advocate for Vermont’s waters. He terest of the servicemember, often my capacity as a Member of Congress. serves on the Lake Champlain Basin without having full knowledge of the However, the Constitution is quite Program Steering Committee and as difference in benefits offered to Active clear about the separation of powers chair of its executive committee, Duty and veterans. Currently, the between the legislative and executive bringing the States of Vermont and TRICARE plan that is available to Ac- branches of our government, and the New York and the Province of Quebec tive Duty servicemembers permits executive branch has the exclusive au- together to work for a clean, healthy them to receive coverage for cognitive thority to conduct negotiations with lake. He also serves on the Lake therapy obtained in private nonforeign countries. Memphremagog Steering Committee, military facilities. However, medical As we all know, the Logan Act pro- working with the Province of Quebec retirees do not have this health care hibits American citizens from negoti- to protect and enhance that inter- coverage option. Consequently, se- ating with foreign governments with- national water. verely injured TBI patients struggle to out the authority of the United States. Canute received his bachelors degree obtain the critical care they des- What would it mean if a Member of the from Columbia University in New York perately need. House or Senate, and especially a City and served in the 101st Airborne Further, while many armed servicemember of the leadership, was to visit Division in the U.S. Army during the members have dedicated family mem- a foreign country and in discussions Vietnam War. He and his wife Diane bers and loved ones who fight to ensure with their government, explicitly have two sons, Layton and Canute. He that they receive the best care pos- speak out against our Nation’s foreign is a longtime resident of Stowe, VT, sible, not all servicemembers have fam- policy agenda? High ranking Members and is a past president of Stowe Youth ily to speak and act on their behalf. of Congress, I believe, are seen by for- Hockey and chair of the Stowe Recre- Thus, many are left without optimal eign governments as carrying an offi- ation Commission. treatment and without an advocate. cial message of foreign policy, and if Canute Dalmasse is a tribute to his The need to ensure that every TBI such members contradict the adminis- State, his community, and to pro- patient receives the best care possible tration, it can be very damaging to our tecting Vermont’s natural environ- cannot be understated. This is an im- country politically and diplomatically. ment. The great State of Vermont, mediate problem with an immediate Members of Congress have the ability with its celebrated natural beauty and solution. We have the ability to pro- to express their dissent from the floor well-deserved reputation for exemplary vide a crucial, temporary answer to our of their respective Chambers, but under environmental stewardship, honors armed services members while the VA no circumstances should Members visit Canute’s dedication, devotion, and hard develops the capability to facilitate with foreign governments for the sole work that helped set the course for care for this unique population. We can purpose of demonstrating their opposition to the administration’s foreign Vermont’s environmental future. It is not stand idly by, as hundreds of our policy. Such actions would show a sin- an honor and a privilege to recognize bravest Americans are prevented from cere lack of respect for the boundaries Canute today in the U.S. Senate. receiving the care they deserve. drawn out by our Constitution, and I f f would hope that all Members of Con- TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY HONORING PASTOR RHIO CLEIGH gress will use good judgment when vis- Mr. BAYH. Mr. President, I wish to Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, iting with foreign governments in the speak to legislation to fight a discrep- today I take a few minutes to honor a future. It is a very dangerous precedent to ancy in access to care that prevents great man of faith. Pastor Rhio Cleigh set if Members of Congress decide to hundreds of our Nation’s heroes from dedicated the past 25 years to serving buck the American foreign policy agen- receiving the best possible care for his community through the church. da and carry mixed messages to foreign traumatic brain injury. The last 15 of those years have been at governments, especially foreign gov- Traumatic brain injury has been my home church—Prairie Lakes ernments hostile to our country. While identified as the ‘‘signature injury’’ af- Church in Cedar Falls, IA. I will continue to support congres- flicting armed servicemembers return- The work of a pastor is not always sional rights to travel abroad and meet ing from Iraq and Afghanistan. After easy but, much like my work, it is very with government officials, there is a sacrificing so much, we have a moral rewarding. As a minister in our church, responsibility that comes along with obligation to ensure that these men Rhio was responsible for counseling in- and women receive the best care avail- those visits, and that responsibility is dividuals through difficult times, vis- to uphold and support the administra- able to them. Unfortunately, adminis- iting the sick in the hospital, and min- tion’s foreign policy agenda. trative and medical capacity problems istering to the senior citizens of our For this reason I have joined my col- have prevented many of our heroes congregation. league Senator INHOFE in submitting from receiving the care they des- This Sunday our membership will this amendment. I believe it sends a perately need and deserve. There is an honor Pastor Cleigh as he retires from clear and strong message that Members immediate solution to address this. the ministry. Rhio plans to spend his of Congress have the responsibility to The Department of Veterans Affairs, retirement enjoying time with his wife defer to and support the administra- VA, has made clear progress in re- Patti, his 6 children, 10 grandchildren, tion on setting our Nation’s foreign search and development of rehabilita- and 1 great-grandchild. He also hopes policy agenda, and under no cir- tion treatment for individuals who to have a little more time for some of cumstances should Members blatantly have incurred traumatic brain injuries. his hobbies—things like woodworking, defy our administration for purely po- However, VA medical facilities have camping, fishing, and gardening. litical gain. not yet reached the level of private re- Barbara joins me in sincere apprecia- f habilitation facilities, which have been tion to Rhio for his contributions to developing cognitive treatment for the our church and community. Together REAL ID ACT past 30 years. we wish him a long and happy retire- Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, today While VA medical centers offer excel- ment. my home State of Montana becomes lent services, there are barriers to re- f the fourth State in the Nation to de- ceiving the optimal health care op- clare its opposition to the REAL ID U.S. FOREIGN POLICY AGENDA tions. These include a confusing array Act by enacting binding legislation of benefits, overworked and under- Mr. CRAIG. Mr. President, I rise that opts Montana out of REAL ID. trained case managers, and, most im- today in support of a sense-of-the-Con- With it, my State is opting out of the portantly, a discrepancy between bene- gress amendment my good friend and onerous regulation, blatant invasion of fits for those on active duty versus colleague Senator INHOFE has just sub- privacy, and the high cost of compli- those who are medically retired. This mitted regarding Presidential author- ance that will come from imple- discrepancy in benefits leads to confu- ity over setting American foreign pol- menting REAL ID. sion among families who are forced to icy. Like all of my colleagues, I have I congratulate my Governor, Brian try to determine what is in the best in- the right to visit foreign countries in Schweitzer, and both houses of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.033 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4590 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 Montana State Legislature. Both the independent music community on forceable standards. I have no reason houses of the legislature approved this airplay and rules of engagement. I to believe that the potential good from legislation unanimously. Thirteen want to especially commend Commis- these agreements will not be fulfilled, other States have anti-REAL ID legis- sioner Adelstein for his tireless work but we can’t allow backsliding, espe- lation that has passed one of the to bring these groups together and cially after the 3-year term of the de- houses of the legislature. In Montana then-Attorney General Spitzer for crees expires. This means that the FCC and the rest of these States, opposition spearheading the initial investigation will need to maintain vigorous and to this poorly constructed law is bipar- that has led to State and now Federal continued oversight. I urge the FCC to tisan. settlements. take the next step of building on this That is why I am pleased to once I was encouraged to see internal busi- first wave of settlements and reaching again offer my support for the Identi- ness reforms, increased recordkeeping agreements or taking enforcement ac- fication Security Enhancement Act, infor transactions between labels and tion against the other stations impli- troduced by Senator AKAKA and Sen- radio stations and unfettered access to cated by the Spitzer investigation. ator SUNUNU—another bipartisan show these records by the FCC as part of the f consent decrees. While these provisions of opposition to the REAL ID Act. TAX RELIEF Why is there so much opposition to are not as broad as those included in REAL ID beyond the beltway? It comes my previous payola legislation, the in- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask down to three reasons. First, the REAL creased recordkeeping and disclosure unanimous consent that a posting by ID Act puts massive new Federal regu- in the consent decrees represent a step someone under the name ‘‘Blue Bun- lations on the States. From new data- in the right direction. Transparency ting’’ made to the Care2 News Network bases and fraud monitoring, to new and accountability through sustained be printed in the RECORD. This posting network and data storage capacity, the oversight will go a long way in elimi- is a supplement to a speech I gave last States will be tasked with an enormous nating the pervasive shadowy practices Thursday, April 12, on attempts by range of new regulations and require- that have plagued the radio industry some Democrats to elude responsibility ments. Once REAL ID becomes effec- on and off almost since its inception. for tax relief permanence. There being no objection, the mate- tive, every State’s Department of While the parties to the consent de- rial was ordered to be printed in the Motor Vehicles will have to play immi- crees do not directly admit wrong- RECORD, as follows: gration official by reconciling discrep- doing, the payment of $12.5 million to ancies in social security numbers with the U.S. Treasury from the four station [From Care2 News Network] the Social Security Administration. groups is an implicit acknowledgement THE MONSTER REPUBLICAN TAX HIKE DMVs will have to require proof of that the evidence uncovered by then- COMMENTS ‘‘legal presence’’ in the United States Attorney General Eliot Spitzer showed Blue Bunting: Tuesday April 3, 2007, 8:32 that significant abuses had taken pm from immigrants. Last week I made a note to link to this I am for a strong immigration policy. place. From all accounts, the stations post at Obsidian Wings. I just spotted the I believe we ought to enforce our bor- also deserve some credit for working in note. ders and enforce the laws we have on good faith with the FCC and the inde- Hilzoy notes the commentary in some the books. But it is completely unrea- pendent music community to work to- quarters that: sonable for the Federal Government to ward a solution that did more than just Following the example set by their Senate put this matter behind them. The in- brethren last Friday, House Democrats will put that job on the Montana Depart- adopt a budget resolution containing the ment of Motor Vehicles, or any other ternal reforms and side agreement ne- largest tax increase in U.S. history amid State’s DMV. gotiated with the American Associa- massive national inattention. And these new regulations carry with tion of Independent Music, A2IM, ap- Bet you didn’t know that, eh? The Dems them a hefty pricetag. DHS now esti- pear to show a real desire to change are already pushing through the largest tax mates that Real ID will cost the states and include the voices of local, un- increase in U.S. history! and nobody is pay- and their taxpayers $23.1 billion. signed and independent musicians that ing attention! have unfortunately been missing more Anyway, Hilzoy digs a bit further into the Finally, REAL ID raises some very story. It really is worth reading. real privacy concerns. Data mining and often than not from our public air- Long story short . . . Republican Con- data theft have become all too common waves over the past decade or more. gresses chose not to make their tax cuts (or, phrases for too many Americans who I am pleased by the voluntary side as PGL would note, their tax deferments) resent having their personal informa- agreement by the radio station groups permanent. They didn’t have to put in a sun- tion collected by the government, or to provide more airtime and fair rules set clause—they chose to, in an attempt to worse, having it stolen from the gov- of engagement. These rules of engage- make long term projections look better. ernment. We all recall the massive po- ment require nondiscriminatory treat- Even with that obfuscation, the situation no ment for labels and musicians seeking longer looks quite so rosy. But . . . if the tential problems that arose from the new Democratic Congress doesn’t do what theft of personal data from the VA last to be played at the stations and echo the Republican Congresses that preceded it year. I have no doubt that the data- requirements from my previous payola failed to do, namely make the tax cut per- bases called for in REAL ID will be an legislation. I am heartened that these manent, well, that’s the equivalent of the even greater target for data thieves. major radio station groups have appar- Democrats pushing the largest tax increase We can do better than REAL ID. Sen- ently come to the realization that the in history. Maybe it’s just me . . . but since this ator AKAKA’s legislation shows that. old system wasn’t working and that it was in their best interest to make it whole thing was planned and executed by a Today, Montana adds its voice to those Republican Congress under a Republican calling for the Federal Government to easier for small labels and local musi- President, shouldn’t we be referring to this go back to the drawing board. Let’s lis- cians to be heard. With more and more as the Republican’s tax increase? And my bet ten to what Montana has to say. musicians being successful without or is that there are a lot of Republicans in Con- f with limited radio airplay—just look at gress now, and that will be seeking re-elec- the commercial and critical success of tion some time soon, that voted for this mas- PAYOLA SETTLEMENT the Dixie Chicks’ last album—I hope sive tax increase. Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I radio stations are realizing they must Blue Bunting: Tuesday April 3, 2007, 9:07 pm would like to briefly comment on an change and play what their potential Fact Check important settlement that has been re- listeners want to hear in order to re- Robert Novak wrote this in today’s Wash- cently announced by the Federal Com- main relevant. I hope this important ington Post: munications Commission, FCC. commitment by four station groups ‘‘Following the example set by their Sen- Four major radio station groups, will be replicated throughout the rest ate brethren last Friday, House Democrats Clear Channel, Entercom, Citadel, and of the radio industry. will adopt a budget resolution containing the CBS Radio, have taken an important I have a few lingering concerns that largest tax increase in U.S. history amid massive national inattention. first step in cleaning up the radio in- both the consent decrees and side Nobody’s tax payment will increase imme- dustry through today’s consent decree agreement depend heavily on contin- diately, but the budget resolutions set a pat- with the FCC and side agreement with ued good faith instead of strong en- tern for years ahead. The House version

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.019 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4591 would increase non-defense, non-emergency badly, we should compare that not to the sit- cover those who are not paying their spending by $22.5 billion for next fiscal year, uation when the Democrats took over, but to fair share. with such spending to rise 2.4 percent in each the situation that would have obtained if the of the next three years. To pay for these in- Republicans had in fact produced a beacon of Last year, the Treasury Department creases, the resolution would raise taxes by democracy that transformed the Middle issued ‘‘A Comprehensive Strategy for close to $400 billion over five years—about East, and say: hey, you awful Democrats, we Reducing the Tax Gap.’’ This document $100 more than what was passed in the Sen- were being greeted with flowers and candy, astutely points out, the Tax Code’s ate.’’ and hailed as liberators, and now look what’s Heavens, I said to myself, what can Robert happened to Baghdad!!!! complexity is itself a significant source Novak possibly be talking about? The Demo- Or maybe we should try living in the real of noncompliance. The current Tax crats budget (pdf, h/t The Gavel) does not ac- world. The Democrats are proposing to leave Code costs the Government revenue tually contain any tax increases: tax laws written and enacted by Republicans since even those who try their best to And yet this claim that the Democrats’ alone. That does not count as increasing follow the rules, often end up under- budget contains a tax increase is being cited taxes. all over the place. So what’s up? Michaelena Whittaker: Thursday April 5, paying tax because the rules are too Novak gives us a clue: 2007, 11:21 am complicated and difficult to decipher. ‘‘It had been assumed that the new Demo- Ditto, Blue . . . it’ all a political ploy, as Therefore, any solution to the tax gap cratic majority would end President Bush’s usual (‘‘High Treason’’ has been THE neocon must also require simplifying the Tax relief in capital gains dividend and estate agenda since the 80’s.) taxation. The simultaneous rollback of Indigo Star Nation: Saturday April 7, 2007, Code. Bush-sponsored income tax cuts was a sur- 11:14 pm A top priority I hear from small busi- prise.’’ Impeachment is the only way to end these nesses across Maine and this country is Ah, Rolling back the Bush tax cuts. But atrocities and reclaim America’s conscience wouldn’t that still require some actual and honor. the need for tax relief. Despite the fact changes in revenues from the baseline pro- http://www.care2.com/c2c/groups/ that small businesses are the real job- jections? A GOP Budget Caucus press release disc.html?gpp=11736&pst=633140 creators for Maine’s and our Nation’s gives us further details: Read this thread and take action to im- economy, the current tax system is Note that word ‘automatic’. It’s quite wor- peach. rying. How did the Democrats manage to Also follow my news shares on withholding placing an entirely unreasonable bur- create an automatic tax increase? Don’t tax your taxes as a protest. den on them when trying to satisfy increases normally have to be enacted? I f their tax obligations. The current Tax hope so. It would be awful if tax increases Code imposes a large, and expensive, could just happen automatically. Come to SMALL BUSINESS TAX BURDEN burden on all taxpayers in terms of sat- think of it, it would be even worse if it turns Ms. SNOWE. Mr. President, today isfying their reporting and record- out that this isn’t confined to the tax code, millions of taxpayers, many owners of and all sorts of laws could be passed auto- small businesses, will file their income keeping obligations. The problem, matically. I mean, who knows what the U.S. tax returns while some States in the though, is that small companies are Code might decide to do to itself, without disadvantaged most in terms of the the intervention of any human agent? We Northeast, including my home State of could wake up one morning to find that ping Maine, have rightfully been given an money and time spent in satisfying pong had been automatically criminalized, additional 48 hours to file due to the their tax obligation. or that a requirement that all Americans devastating storms resulting in disas- For example, according to the Small wear silly clown costumes had automatically trous flooding, wind damage, and power Business Administration’s Office of Ad- come into force, or that all our national outages. vocacy, small businesses spend an as- parks had automatically sold themselves to As citizens file their taxes this week, WalMart. The possibilities are horrifying. tounding 8 billion hours each year com- Imagine my relief when I realized what was I am very happy to say that a wide ma- plying with Government reports. They actually going on. The Bush tax cuts are set jority of Mainers and Americans alike also spend more than 80 percent of this will be fully compliant in reporting the to expire automatically. They were written time on completing tax forms. What’s that way. What the Democrats are proposing appropriate amount of income, with to do is simply not to change this. the Internal Revenue Service esti- even more troubling is that companies Moreover, guess who wrote these sunset mating 84 percent of taxpayers are that employ fewer than 20 employees provisions into the tax increases? The Re- compliant. The unfortunate flip side to spend nearly $1,304 per employee in tax publicans, that’s who. They were trying to compliance costs, an amount that is make the tax increases seem less fiscally ru- that statistic is that 16 percent of tax- inous than they were, so they made them payers either fail to report income or nearly 67 percent more than larger last only so long before they expired. (This is underreport income and thus fail to firms. A recent survey by the National why I expect 2010 to produce a spike in mor- pay all the taxes owed. This Federation of Independent Businesses tality among the very rich; the heirs of peo- misreporting of income has resulted in found that 88 percent of small-em- ple who die during 2010 pay no estate tax; the a $345 billion gross tax gap, which is ployer taxpayers used a tax profes- heirs of people who die in 2011 pay 50% on all the difference between taxes owed and the money they inherit above the level at sional and the two reasons small-em- which the estate tax kicks in. As Paul paid. ployer taxpayers most frequently cite Krugman said, ‘‘That creates some inter- Unquestionably, we must ensure that for using tax professionals are to as- esting incentives. Maybe they should have taxes owed are taxes paid. While the sure compliance and the complexity of called it the Throw Momma From the Train Congressional Budget Office, CBO, the law. Act of 2001.’’) projects a deficit of around $200 billion So here’s what Novak’s ‘‘largest tax in- this fiscal year without any abatement For that reason, I have introduced a crease in U.S. history’’ actually comes to the through 2011, the fact remains that package of proposals that will provide Republicans passed a series of tax cuts that not only targeted, affordable tax relief they set up to expire. They intended to make narrowing the tax gap would help re- them permanent, but never got around to it. duce the deficit—plain and simple. to small business owners, but also sim- The Democrats are proposing to leave their Not only does the tax gap prevent us pler rules under the Tax Code. By sim- tax cuts alone. But this counts as a tax in- from balancing the budget, equally dis- plifying the Tax Code, small business crease, apparently on the grounds that what- turbing is how noncompliance breeds owners will be able to satisfy their tax ever Republicans sorta kinda thought they disrespect for the tax system and can obligation in a cheaper, more efficient were going to do, but never actually got lead to the further shirking of obliga- manner, allowing them to be able to around to doing, counts as already done, and tions. The result could be that, to fill anyone who proposes to leave things alone devote more time and resources to counts as undoing the things they were in- the gap, law-abiding taxpayers would their business. have to pay higher taxes. Consider the tending to do. I have introduced legislation, S. 269, That’s a fun way to think. Maybe we following: According to preliminary should also count the Democrats as having IRS data, for 2005, taxpayers filed 134.5 in response to the repeated requests dramatically increased the budget deficit, on million individual income tax returns. from small businesses in Maine and the grounds that the Republicans kinda If we were to shrink the tax gap, each from across the Nation to allow them sorta said they were going to make it go of those returns would have to be as- to expense more of their investments, away, so even though they didn’t, we should like the purchase of essential new act as though they did and compare what- sessed additional tax in the amount of ever deficits the Democrats incur to the Re- $2,566. I would not want to be in posi- equipment. My bill modifies the Inter- publicans’ imaginary balanced budget. tion to ask my constituents for more of nal Revenue Code by doubling the Maybe, if things in Iraq continue to go their hard-earned money, especially to amount a small business can expense

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.021 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4592 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 from $100,000 to $200,000, and make the isting rules so that more small busi- this important statewide event. The provision permanent, as President nesses will be able to use the taxable annual Invention Convention has show- Bush proposed this change in his fiscal year that best suits their business. cased the skill, imagination and cre- year 2007 tax proposals. With small To provide relief and equity to our ativity of some of our best and bright- businesses representing 99 percent of Nation’s 1.5 million retail establish- est—and most creative—youngsters. all employers, creating 75 percent of ments, most of which have less than From the Motorized Guinea Pig net new jobs and contributing 51 per- five employees, I have introduced a Walker invented by Nicholas Schrunk cent of private-sector output, their size bill, S. 271, with Senators LINCOLN, of Spirit Lake to the Oops! Proof No- is the only ‘‘small’’ aspect about them. HUTCHISON, and KERRY that reduces spill Feeding Bowl invented by Alexis By doubling and making permanent from 39 to 15 years the depreciable life Abernathy of Cedar Rapids, students the current expensing limit and index- of improvements that are made to re- have created innovative solutions to ing these amounts for inflation, this tail stores that are owned by the re- everyday problems. bill will achieve two important objec- tailer. Under current law, only retail- In Nicholas’ case, he needed to figure tives. First, qualifying businesses will ers that lease their property are al- out a way for his guinea pig, Freckles, be able to write off more of the equip- lowed this accelerated depreciation, to get some exercise without running ment purchases today, instead of wait- which means it excludes retailers that around the house and annoying his ing 5, 7 or more years to recover their also own the property in which they mother. Alexis got the idea for her in- costs through depreciation. That rep- operate. My bill simply seeks to pro- vention by watching a 2-year-old child resents substantial savings both in dol- vide equal treatment to all retailers. spill his cereal again and again. These lars and in the time small businesses Specifically, this bill will simply con- two inventions were creative solutions would otherwise have to spend com- form the Tax Codes to the realities that earned recognition for the young plying with complex and confusing de- that retailers on Main Street face. inventors. In the last 20 years, there preciation rules. Moreover, new equip- Studies conducted by the Treasury De- have been thousands of other inven- ment will contribute to continued pro- partment, Congressional Research tions. ductivity growth in the business com- Service and private economists have Each year, approximately 30,000 Iowa students begin the journey to the State munity, which economic experts have all found that the 39-year depreciation Convention by participating in local repeatedly stressed is essential to the life for buildings is too long and that and regional competitions. The staffs long-term vitality of our economy. the 39-year depreciation life for build- Second, as a result of this bill, more ing improvements is even worse. Re- from Iowa’s Area Education Agencies businesses will qualify for this benefit tailers generally remodel their stores do a tremendous job working with edu- because the phase-out limit will be in- every 5 to 7 years to reflect changes in cators on curriculum ideas and setting creased to $800,000 in new assets pur- customer base and compete with newer up the regional events. Since the incep- chases. At the same time, small busi- stores. Moreover, many improvements tion of the program in 1987, more than half a million students have partici- ness capital investment will be pump- such as interior partitions, ceiling pated in Invent Iowa. ing more money into the economy. tiles, restroom accessories, and paint, may only last a few years before re- The seed for Invent Iowa was planted This is a win-win for small business at a statewide conference I sponsored and the economy as a whole and I am quiring replacement. Finally, I joined Senator BOND in in- in conjunction with Iowa State Univer- pleased to have Senators LOTT, troducing S. 296 that will simplify the sity in 1986 on the future of Iowa com- ISAKSON, CHAMBLISS and COLLINS join Tax Code by permitting small business munities. In his keynote address, David me as cosponsors of this legislation. Morris from the Institute for Local Another proposal that I have intro- owners to use the cash method of accounting for reporting their income if Self-Reliance focused on the need to reduced with Senators LINCOLN and LOTT, kindle the spirit of innovation in the the Small Business Tax Flexibility Act they generally earn fewer than $10 million during the tax year. Currently, United States, and he also spoke of his of 2007, S. 270, will permit start-up only those taxpayers that earn less experience as a judge for the Minnesota small business owners to use a taxable than $5 million per year are able to use Metropolitan Young Inventor’s Fair. year other than the calendar year if the cash method. By increasing this Following that event, my office, led by they generally earn fewer than $5 mil- threshold to $10 million, more small Dianne Liepa, began working with lion during the tax year. Carol McDanolds Bradley at the Iowa Specifically, the Small Business Tax businesses will be relieved of the bur- Department of Education, statewide Flexibility Act of 2007 will permit more densome recordkeeping requirements education groups, nonprofit organiza- taxpayers to use the taxable year most that they currently must undertake in reporting their income under a dif- tions and businesses to form a steering suitable to their business cycle. Until committee to establish a statewide in- 1986, businesses could elect the taxable ferent accounting method. This package of proposals are a tre- vention program for students. Invent year-end that made the most economic mendous opportunity to help small en- Iowa was born. sense for the business. In 1986, Congress terprises succeed by providing an in- In 1989, the Invent Iowa Board of Di- passed legislation requiring partner- centive for reinvestment and leaving rectors contracted with the Belin- ships and S corporations, many of them more of their earnings to do just Blank Center for Gifted Education and which are small businesses, to adopt a that. Notably, providing tax relief by Talent Development at the University December 31 year-end. The Tax Code passing these simplification measures of Iowa to serve as the home for the or- does provide alternatives to the cal- will also help us reduce the tax gap by ganization’s State coordinator. Eleven endar year for small businesses, but increasing compliance. I urge my col- years later, Invent Iowa would become the compliance costs and administra- leagues to join me in supporting these a program under the full direction of tive burdens associated with these al- proposals. Belin-Blank. Under the leadership of ternatives prove to be too high for the dedicated staff at Belin-Blank, In- most small businesses to utilize. f vent Iowa has grown and flourished. Meanwhile, C corporations, as large ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS In particular, I would like to salute corporations often are, receive much the excellent work of Dr. Nicholas more flexibility in their choice of tax- Colangelo, director of the Belin-Blank able year. A C corporation can adopt INVENT IOWA PROGRAM Center, and Dr. Clar Baldus, who serves either a calendar year or any fiscal ∑ Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, on April a dual role as administrator of Rural year for tax purposes, as long as it 21, some 360 young Iowa inventors will Schools Programs and Inventiveness keeps its books on that basis. This cre- gather at Hilton Coliseum on the cam- Programs at Belin-Blank as well as ates the unfair result of allowing larger pus of Iowa State University for the In- State coordinator for Invent Iowa. businesses with greater resources vent Iowa 2007 State Invention Conven- They have been tireless advocates for greater flexibility in choosing a tax- tion. This gathering will mark the 20th the program and are dedicated to its able year than smaller firms with fewer year for Invent Iowa. success far into the future. resources. This simply does not make Over the last two decades, thousands Invent Iowa is a great program, and I sense to me. My bill changes these ex- of Iowa students have participated in am very proud to recognize all of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.018 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4593 people and organizations that continue ing his country as a member of the at that time was a top team and the to carry on Iowa’s tradition for innova- ‘‘greatest generation.’’ only NCAA hockey team south of the tion and invention. Congratulations on Herb, Jr.’s close ties to Nebraska did Mason-Dixon line. Under his leader- reaching this important milestone to not end with his graduation. He em- ship, the team has had great success, the advisory board for Invent Iowa and barked on a career spanning 30 years at reaching NCAA Division I status. to the sponsors including the Belin- the University of Nebraska Foundation Quoting Coach Joe Ritch, his prede- Blank Center, Iowa Area Education as secretary/treasurer and later vice cessor at UAH. ‘‘Doug brought UAH Agencies, Iowa Intellectual Property president. Upon his retirement in 1982, championships, unique notoriety, and Law Association, Rockwell Collins Cor- Herb’s tenure spanned a period during national respect in the collegiate hock- poration, McKee, Voorhees and Sease which the foundation grew from a staff ey world. We all owe Doug Ross a debt patent attorneys Larry Engman and of 5 employees and assets of $1 million of gratitude for his commitment to David Belin, Dean P. Barry Butler and to a staff of 22 and assets of $80 million. UAH and hockey for this state.’’ the College of Engineering at the Uni- Herb and Lois passed on the Husker The team went to the NCAA Re- versity of Iowa, and Dean Mark J. tradition to their two daughters, Bar- gional Tournament this year where Kushner and the College of Engineering bara and Carol. Barbara, class of 1967, they played the third longest game in at Iowa State University. met and married Robert Reynolds, NCAA Regional Tournament history. The most important partners in the class of 1971, at Nebraska. Robert went In a thrilling game with top-ranked success of Invent Iowa have been class- on to serve in the U.S. Department of and top-seeded Notre Dame, the Char- room teachers across Iowa. They help the Interior with distinction for 33 gers lost 3–2 in double overtime on a guide students through all phases of years. In recognition of his outstanding power-play goal. If winning it all could the invention process from the docu- contributions to the National Park not happen, this game was one on mentation of need, to the inception of Service, Robert was given the Meri- which to cap a career. the idea, creation of the prototype, re- torious Service Award in 1991, the sec- Coach Ross is known for recruiting search to ensure the innovativeness of ond highest award given in the Depart- top notch student athletes to UAH. the invention, and the final presen- ment of the Interior. Then in 2000, he Following their success on the ice, tation to a panel of evaluators. With- was awarded the Distinguished Service many of his players are active alumni, out these dedicated teachers working Award, which is given to only 4 out of living in the Huntsville area and ac- with the young inventors, there would 20,000 each year. tively involved in the community. be no Invent Iowa. Carol, class of 1973, M.S. 1975, also Thank you, Coach Ross, for bringing On the 20th anniversary, I congratu- met her husband, Paul Lou, class of NCAA hockey to the forefront in Ala- late all the Iowans who have worked so 1973, M.S. 1976, at the university. Paul bama and for your loyalty and support hard to make Invent Iowa such a suc- has spent the past 25 years as an infor the University of Alabama in cess. I wish them even greater success structor teaching a broad range of Huntsville. Your legacy is a great one in their next 20 years. Also, good luck computer classes at Diablo Valley and I join with UAH, the Huntsville to the students who will be partici- Community College in Pleasant Hill, community, and the State of Alabama pating in the 2007 Invention Conven- CA, where he is considered one of the in wishing you the very best in your re- tion this weekend.∑ most popular teachers. tirement.∑ f From the Ballantyne family, there f have been several other Nebraska grad- MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE IN RECOGNITION OF THE POTTER uates, with the latest being Kevin Zim- FAMILY merman, a lawyer who is currently At 2:31 p.m., a message from the ∑ Mr. NELSON of Nebraska. Mr. Presi- serving his country in the armed serv- House of Representatives, delivered by dent, today I pay tribute to the Potter ices. Other graduates have gone on to Ms. Niland, one of its reading clerks, family, who are being honored with the become doctors—Doug Peter—teach- announced that the House has passed Family Tree Alumni Award from the ers—Sandra Peter, Pat Kahre and the following bill, in which it requests University of Nebraska-Lincoln, UNL. Frank Daily—artists—Joyce the concurrence of the Senate: This award was established in 1995 for Ballantyne and Beverly Ballantyne— H.R. 988. An act to designate the facility of families having at least three genera- and business professionals—Byron the United States Postal Service located at 5757 Tilton Avenue in Riverside, California, tions of UNL graduates and at least Ballantyne and Jim Peter. two family members with a record of as the ‘‘Lieutenant Todd Jason Bryant Post Finally, current marching band Office’’. outstanding service to the university, member Kyle Peter represents the fifth The message also announced that the the alumni association, their commu- generation of the Potter family tree to nity and/or their profession. House has agreed to the following con- attend the University of Nebraska. current resolutions, in which it re- This legacy finds its roots in Herb In addition to this legacy being deep quests the concurrence of the Senate: ‘‘Cub’’ Potter, Sr., who began attend- in its years, it is also wide in its H. Con. Res. 71. Concurrent resolution ing the University of Nebraska in 1910. spread. From 1910 up to the present, Herb lettered as a quarterback on the commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the there has been a member of either the founding of the American Hellenic Edu- dominating ‘‘Stiehm Rollers’’ Ne- Potter or Ballantyne families affiliated cational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a braska football teams of 1911, 1912, and with the University of Nebraska during leading association for the Nation’s 1.3 mil- 1914. The latter of those teams finished every single decade. What a rich tradi- lion American citizens of Greek ancestry, with 7 wins, 0 losses and 1 tie, which tion at Nebraska.∑ and Philhellenes. H. Con. Res. 88. Concurrent resolution hon- was said to be deserving of the myth- f ical national title. At the university, oring the life of Ernest Gallo. Herb met his wife, Carrie Coman, a fel- TRIBUTE TO COACH DOUG ROSS f low student and an Alpha Omicron Pi ∑ Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I MEASURES REFERRED would like to congratulate and make member. The following bill was read the first The two sons of Herb and Carrie Pot- some remarks today about a very valu- and the second times by unanimous ter, Herb, Jr., and younger brother able asset to the University of Ala- consent, and referred as indicated: Brooks, became the next generation of bama in Huntsville and the entire H.R. 988. An act to designate the facility of Huskers during the early 1940s. Herb, State of Alabama—Ice Hockey Head the United States Postal Service located at Jr., graduated in 1943 with a degree in Coach Doug Ross, who is retiring after 5757 Tilton Avenue in Riverside, California, business administration and soon mar- 25 years of coaching the UAH Chargers as the ‘‘Lieutenant Todd Jason Bryant Post ried a fellow graduate, Lois hockey team. Office″; to the Committee on Homeland Se- Ballantyne, class of 1940. Brooks at- Coach Ross began his coaching career curity and Governmental Affairs. tended the University of Nebraska at Ohio University in 1976 where he The following concurrent resolution until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at coached for one season, and then at was read, and referred as indicated: the onset of World War II. Unfortu- Kent State University for 2 years. He H. Con. Res. 71. Concurrent resolution nately, Brooks passed away while serv- came to UAH in 1982. The hockey team commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.010 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4594 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 founding of the American Hellenic Edu- Safety Administration, Department of –145EP’’ ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. 2006– cational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to NM–120)) received on April 13, 2007; to the leading association for the Nation’s 1.3 mil- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Electronic Committee on Commerce, Science, and lion American citizens of Greek ancestry, Stability Control’’ (RIN2127-AJ77) received Transportation. and Philhellenes; to the Committee on the on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- EC–1504. A communication from the Pro- Judiciary. merce, Science, and Transportation. gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- tion, Department of Transportation, trans- f EC–1495. A communication from the Pro- gram Analyst, National Highway Traffic mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule EXECUTIVE AND OTHER Safety Administration, Department of entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Empresa COMMUNICATIONS Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. Model EMB– 135 Airplanes and Model EMB–145, –145ER, The following communications were law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Upgrade Door Retention Performance’’ (RIN2127– –145MR, –145LR, –145XR, –145MP, and –145EP laid before the Senate, together with AH34) received on April 13, 2007; to the Com- Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. 2006– accompanying papers, reports, and doc- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- NM–167)) received on April 13, 2007; to the uments, and were referred as indicated: tation. Committee on Commerce, Science, and EC–1485. A communication from the Chief EC–1496. A communication from the Pro- Transportation. Counsel, Federal Emergency Management gram Analyst, National Highway Traffic EC–1505. A communication from the Pro- Agency, Department of Homeland Security, Safety Administration, Department of gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to tion, Department of Transportation, trans- a rule entitled ‘‘Changes in Flood Elevation law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘New Car mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule Determination’’ (72 FR 14449) received on Assessment Program; Safety Labeling’’ entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; BAE April 12, 2007; to the Committee on Banking, (RIN2127–AJ76) received on April 13, 2007; to Systems Limited Model BAe 145 and Avro Housing, and Urban Affairs. the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 146–RJ Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket EC–1486. A communication from the Chief Transportation. No. 2005–NM–106)) received on April 13, 2007; Counsel, Federal Emergency Management EC–1497. A communication from the Pro- to the Committee on Commerce, Science, Agency, Department of Homeland Security, gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- and Transportation. transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of tion, Department of Transportation, trans- EC–1506. A communication from the Pro- gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- a rule entitled ‘‘Changes in Flood Elevation mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule tion, Department of Transportation, trans- Determinations’’ (72 FR 14447) received on entitled ‘‘Modification of Class E Airspace; mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule April 12, 2007; to the Committee on Banking, Phillipsburg, KS’’ ((RIN2120–AA66)(Docket entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Housing, and Urban Affairs. No. 06–ACE–13)) received on April 13, 2007; to EC–1487. A communication from the Chief the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Model A300 Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– Counsel, Federal Emergency Management Transportation. AA64)(Docket No. 2006–NM–145)) received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- Agency, Department of Homeland Security, EC–1498. A communication from the Pro- merce, Science, and Transportation. transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- tion, Department of Transportation, trans- EC–1507. A communication from the Pro- a rule entitled ‘‘Changes in Flood Elevation gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule Determination’’ (72 FR 14456) received on tion, Department of Transportation, trans- entitled ‘‘Modification of Class E Airspace; April 12, 2007; to the Committee on Banking, mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule Thedford, NE’’ ((RIN2120–AA66)(Docket No. Housing, and Urban Affairs. entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; McDon- EC–1488. A communication from the Chief 06–ACE–12)) received on April 13, 2007; to the nell Douglas Model DC–8–62, DC–8–63, DC–8– Counsel, Federal Emergency Management Committee on Commerce, Science, and 62F, and DC–8–63F Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– Agency, Department of Homeland Security, Transportation. EC–1499. A communication from the Pro- AA64)(Docket No. 2006–NM–063)) received on transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- a rule entitled ‘‘Final Flood Elevation Deter- merce, Science, and Transportation. tion, Department of Transportation, trans- minations’’ (72 FR 14461) received on April 12, EC–1508. A communication from the Pro- 2007; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- and Urban Affairs. entitled ‘‘Modification of Class E Airspace; tion, Department of Transportation, trans- EC–1489. A communication from the Chair- Alliance, NE’’ ((RIN2120–AA66)(Docket No. mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule man, Federal Financial Institutions Exam- 06–ACE–15)) received on April 13, 2007; to the entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Turbo- ination Council, transmitting, pursuant to Committee on Commerce, Science, and meca S.A. Arrius 2F Turboshaft Engines’’ law, the Council’s 2006 Annual Report; to the Transportation. ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. 2005–NE–33)) re- EC–1500. A communication from the Pro- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban ceived on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Affairs. gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- Commerce, Science, and Transportation. EC–1490. A communication from the Regu- tion, Department of Transportation, trans- EC–1509. A communication from the Pro- latory Specialist, Office of the Comptroller mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- of the Currency, Department of the Treas- entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Bom- tion, Department of Transportation, trans- ury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- bardier Model DHC–8–400 Series Airplanes’’ mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule port of a rule entitled ‘‘Expanded Examina- ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. 2006–NM–155)) entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Empresa tion Cycle for Certain Small Insured Deposi- received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. Model ERJ tory Institutions and U.S. Branches and on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. 170 and ERJ 190 Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– Agencies of Foreign Banks’’ (OCC–2007–0007) EC–1501. A communication from the Pro- AA64)(Docket No. 2006–NM–166)) received on received on April 12, 2007; to the Committee gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. tion, Department of Transportation, trans- merce, Science, and Transportation. EC–1491. A communication from the Direc- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule EC–1510. A communication from the Pro- tor, Office of Thrift Supervision, Department entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Pacific gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- of the Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to Aerospace Corporation Ltd. Model 750XL tion, Department of Transportation, trans- law, a report relative to the Office’s com- Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. 2006– mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule pensation plan for 2007; to the Committee on CE–69)) received on April 13, 2007; to the entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Aircraft Ltd. Models PC–6, PC–6–H1, PC–6– EC–1492. A communication from the Prin- Transportation. H2, PC–6/350, PC–6/350–H1, PC–6/350–H2, PC–6/ cipal Deputy, Office of the Under Secretary EC–1502. A communication from the Pro- A, PC–6/A–H1, PC–6/A–H2, PC–6/B–H2, PC–6/ of Defense (Personnel and Readiness), trans- gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- B1–H2, PC–6/B2–H2, PC–6/B2–H4, PC–6/C–H2, mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to tion, Department of Transportation, trans- and PC–6/C1–H2 Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– the Department’s oversight of recruiter mis- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule AA64)(Docket No. 2006–CE–19)) received on conduct; to the Committee on Armed Serv- entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; CTRM April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- ices. Aviation Sdn. Bhd. Model Eagle 150B Air- merce, Science, and Transportation. EC–1493. A communication from the Senior planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64)(Docket No. CE–11)) EC–1511. A communication from the Pro- Attorney, Office of the Secretary, Depart- received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- ment of Transportation, transmitting, pur- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. tion, Department of Transportation, trans- suant to law, the report of a rule entitled EC–1503. A communication from the Pro- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule ‘‘Review of Data Filed by Certificated or gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- entitled ‘‘Safety Approvals’’ ((RIN2120– Commuter Air Carriers to Support Con- tion, Department of Transportation, trans- AI50)(Docket No. FAA–2006–21332)) received tinuing Fitness Determinations Involving mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- Citizenship Issues’’ (RIN2105-AD25) received entitled ‘‘Airworthiness Directives; Empresa merce, Science, and Transportation. on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on Com- Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A. Model EMB– EC–1512. A communication from the Pro- merce, Science, and Transportation. 135BJ, –135ER, –135KE, –135KL, and –135LR gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- EC–1494. A communication from the Pro- Airplanes; and Model EMB–145, –145ER, tion, Department of Transportation, trans- gram Analyst, National Highway Traffic –145MR, –145LR, –145XR, –145MP, and mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:20 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.027 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4595 entitled ‘‘Miscellaneous Changes to Commer- EC–1522. A communication from the Chief than treaties (List 2007–50—2007–60); to the cial Space Transportation Regulations’’ of the Publications and Regulations Branch, Committee on Foreign Relations. ((RIN2120–AI45)(Docket No. FAA–2005–21234)) Internal Revenue Service, Department of the EC–1533. A communication from the Assist- received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. report of a rule entitled ‘‘2007 Automobile Department of State, transmitting, pursuant EC–1513. A communication from the Pro- Depreciation Limits’’ (Rev. Proc. 2007–30) re- to law, a report relative to methods em- gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- ceived on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on ployed by Cuba to comply with the United tion, Department of Transportation, trans- Finance. States-Cuba September 1994 ‘‘Joint Commu- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule EC–1523. A communication from the Chief nique’’ and the treatment by the Govern- entitled ‘‘Human Space Flight Requirements of the Publications and Regulations Branch, ment of Cuba of persons returned to Cuba; to for Crew and Space Flight Participants’’ Internal Revenue Service, Department of the the Committee on Foreign Relations. ((RIN2120–AI57)(Docket No. FAA–2005–23449)) Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee report of a rule entitled ‘‘April—June 2007 EC–1534. A communication from the Assist- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Section 42 Bond Factor Amounts’’ (Rev. Rul. ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, EC–1514. A communication from the Pro- 2007–25) received on April 13, 2007; to the Department of State, transmitting, pursuant gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- Committee on Finance. to law, a report relative to the Millennium tion, Department of Transportation, trans- EC–1524. A communication from the Chief Challenge Corporation’s activities for fiscal mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule of the Publications and Regulations Branch, year 2006; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- entitled ‘‘Extended Operations of Multi-En- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the tions. gine Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AI03)(Docket No. Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the EC–1535. A communication from the In- FAA–2002–6717)) received on April 13, 2007; to report of a rule entitled ‘‘Revision to Regula- terim Director, Pension Benefit Guaranty the Committee on Commerce, Science, and tions Relating to Portfolio Interest’’ Corporation, transmitting, pursuant to law, Transportation. ((RIN1545–BF64)(TD9323)) received on April the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Benefits Pay- EC–1515. A communication from the Pro- 13, 2007; to the Committee on Finance. able in Terminated Single-Employer Plans; gram Analyst, Federal Aviation Administra- EC–1525. A communication from the Chief Allocation of Assets in Single-Employer tion, Department of Transportation, trans- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, Plans; Interest Assumptions for Valuing and mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Paying Benefits’’ (29 CFR Parts 4022 and 4044) entitled ‘‘Licensing and Safety Require- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the received on April 12, 2007; to the Committee ments for Launch’’ ((RIN2120–AG37)(Docket report of a rule entitled ‘‘Mirror Legislation on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. No. FAA–2000–7953)) received on April 13, and the United Kingdom’’ (Uniform Issue EC–1536. A communication from the Direc- 2007; to the Committee on Commerce, List Number 1503.06–00) received on April 13, tor, Regulations Policy and Management Science, and Transportation. 2007; to the Committee on Finance. Staff, Department of Health and Human EC–1516. A communication from the Ad- EC–1526. A communication from the Chief Services, transmitting, pursuant to law, the ministrator, National Aeronautics and Space of the Publications and Regulations Branch, report of a rule entitled ‘‘Dandruff, Administration, transmitting, the report of Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Seborrheic Dermatitis, and Psoriasis Drug draft legislation to amend the National Aer- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Products Containing Coal Tar and Menthol onautics and Space Act of 1958, as amended, report of a rule entitled ‘‘Guidance Regard- for Over-the-Counter Human Use; Amend- and the NASA Flexibility Act of 2004 to pro- ing the Application of Section 409A to Split- ment to the Monograph’’ ((RIN0910–AF49) vide NASA additional workforce flexibilities; Dollar Insurance Arrangements’’ (Notice (Docket No. 2005N–0448)) received on April 12, to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 2007–34) received on April 13, 2007; to the 2007; to the Committee on Health, Education, and Transportation. Committee on Finance. Labor, and Pensions. EC–1517. A communication from the Sec- EC–1527. A communication from the Chief retary, Federal Trade Commission, transmit- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, EC–1537. A communication from the Direc- ting, pursuant to law, a report entitled ‘‘Fed- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the tor, Regulations Policy and Management eral Trade Commission Report to Congress Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Staff, Department of Health and Human on Marketing Violent Entertainment to report of a rule entitled ‘‘Section 911 Waiver Services, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Children: A Fifth Follow-Up Review of Indus- Rev. Proc.—2006 Update’’ (Rev. Proc. 2007–28) report of a rule entitled ‘‘Blood Vessels Re- try Practices in the Motion Picture, Music received on April 13, 2007; to the Committee covered With Organs and Intended for Use in Recording and Electronic Game Industries’’; on Finance. Organ Transplantation’’ (Docket No. 2006N– to the Committee on Commerce, Science, EC–1528. A communication from the Chief 0051) received on April 12, 2007; to the Com- and Transportation. of the Publications and Regulations Branch, mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and EC–1518. A communication from the Assist- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Pensions. ant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the EC–1538. A communication from the Direc- Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Anti-Avoidance tor, Regulations Policy and Management Interior, transmitting, pursuant to law, the and Anti-Loss Reimportation Rules Applica- Staff, Department of Health and Human report of a rule entitled ‘‘Endangered and ble Following a Loss on Disposition of Stock Services, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Consolidated Subsidiaries’’ ((RIN1545– report of a rule entitled ‘‘Blood Vessels Re- of Critical Habitat for Cirsium hydrophilum BG26) (TD9322)) received on April 13, 2007; to covered With Organs Intended for Use in var. hydrophilum (Suisun thistle) and the Committee on Finance. Organ Transplantation’’ ((RIN0910–AF65) Cordylanthus mollis ssp. mollis (soft bird’s- EC–1529. A communication from the Presi- (Docket No. 2006N–0051)) received on April 12, beak)’’ (RIN1018–AU44) received on April 13, dent and CEO, Overseas Private Investment 2007; to the Committee on Health, Education, 2007; to the Committee on Environment and Corporation, transmitting, pursuant to law, Labor, and Pensions. Public Works. a report relative to the development and ef- EC–1539. A communication from the Chair- EC–1519. A communication from the Acting fects of the Corporation’s fiscal year 2006 man, National Foundation on the Arts and Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and projects; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- the Humanities, transmitting, pursuant to Parks, Fish and Wildlife Service, Depart- tions. law, an annual report relative to the Arts ment of the Interior, transmitting, pursuant EC–1530. A communication from the Assist- and Artifacts Indemnity Program for fiscal to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Migra- ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, year 2006; to the Committee on Health, Edu- tory Bird Subsistence Harvest in Alaska; Department of State, transmitting, pursuant cation, Labor, and Pensions. Harvest Regulations for Migratory Birds in to law, a report relative to Taiwan’s partici- Alaska During the 2007 Season’’ (RIN1018– pation in the World Health Organization; to EC–1540. A communication from the Direc- AU59) received on April 12, 2007; to the Com- the Committee on Foreign Relations. tor, Regulations and Disclosure Law Divi- mittee on Environment and Public Works. EC–1531. A communication from the Assist- sion, Department of Homeland Security, EC–1520. A communication from the Sec- ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of retary of Health and Human Services, trans- Department of State, transmitting, pursuant a rule entitled ‘‘Advance Electronic Presen- mitting, pursuant to law, a report entitled to law, the notification of a proposed exer- tation of Cargo Information for Truck Car- ‘‘Pilot Testing of Electronic Prescribing cise of the Federal Aviation Administration riers Required to be Transmitted Through Standards—Cooperative Agreements’’; to the to transfer $11 million in fiscal year 2006 Eco- ACE Truck Manifest at Ports in the States Committee on Finance. nomic Support Funds to the Peacekeeping of Vermont, North Dakota and New Hamp- EC–1521. A communication from the Chief Operations account to support security sec- shire’’ (19 CFR Part 123) received on April 13, of the Publications and Regulations Branch, tor reform in Liberia; to the Committee on 2007; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the Foreign Relations. rity and Governmental Affairs. Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the EC–1532. A communication from the Assist- EC–1541. A communication from the Direc- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Regulations: Appli- ant Legal Adviser for Treaty Affairs, Depart- tor, Office of Personnel Management, trans- cation of Section 409A to Nonqualified De- ment of State, transmitting, pursuant to the mitting, pursuant to law, an annual report ferred Compensation Plans’’ ((RIN1545– Case-Zablocki Act, 1 U.S.C. 112b, as amended, containing certain fiscal year 2006 statistical BE79)(TD9321)) received on April 13, 2007; to the report of the texts and background state- data relative to Federal sector equal employ- the Committee on Finance. ments of international agreements, other ment opportunity complaints filed with the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:58 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.030 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4596 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 Office; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- of all revenues generated from the multiple- development of a federal, bipartisan, long- rity and Governmental Affairs. use management of the newly created na- term solution that addresses sustainable EC–1542. A communication from the Acting tional forests to support public roads and management of federal forest lands to sta- Senior Procurement Executive, Office of the public schools; and bilize payments to forest counties through- Chief Acquisition Officer, Department of De- Whereas, in recent decades, the forest re- out the western United States, which help fense, transmitting, pursuant to law, the resources have not been managed in a manner support roads and schools, and to provide port of a rule entitled ‘‘Federal Acquisition to produce long-term sustainable revenue to projects that enhance forest ecosystem Regulation: Federal Acquisition Circular share with schools and counties; and health and provide employment opportuni- 2005–16’’ (FAC 2005–16) received on April 12, Whereas, in 2000, Congress passed Public ties, and to improve cooperative relation- 2007; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- Law 106–393, the Secure Rural Schools and ships among those who use and care about rity and Governmental Affairs. Community Self-Determination Act. The the lands the federal government manages; EC–1543. A communication from the Chair- Act restored historical payment levels pre- and be it further man, Postal Regulatory Commission, trans- viously made to states and counties from the Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the House mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to federal government for road and school pur- of Representatives be, and she is hereby au- its implementation of the Sunshine Act dur- poses because of declining levels of actual thorized and directed to forward a copy of ing calendar year 2006; to the Committee on forest receipts; and this Memorial to the President of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Whereas, the reauthorization and appro- and Speaker of the House of Representatives fairs. priation of the Secure Rural Schools and of Congress, the congressional delegation EC–1544. A communication from the Chief Community Self-Determination Act is pend- representing the State of Idaho in the Con- Administrative Officer, Patent and Trade- ing before the United States Congress, and gress of the United States and to the Legis- mark Office, Department of Commerce, Idaho counties are on record as being strong- latures of the states of Alaska, Arizona, Cali- transmitting, pursuant to law, the Office’s ly supportive of a fully funded approval of fornia, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, Nevada, Annual Report for fiscal year 2006; to the this Act; and New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- Whereas, federal land managers continue Wyoming. ernmental Affairs. to be faced with funding shortages. In the EC–1545. A communication from the Dep- event the Secure Rural Schools and Commu- POM–63. A resolution adopted by the Sen- uty Assistant Administrator, Office of Diver- nity Self-Determination Act is not reauthor- ate of the Legislature of the State of Michi- sion Control, Department of Justice, trans- ized and appropriated, counties will be faced gan expressing the Senate’s opposition to mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule with higher property taxes or a reduction in Norfolk Southern Corporation’s proposed entitled ‘‘Control of a Chemical Precursor services and, even if the Act is reauthorized sale of its rail lines from Ypsilanti to Kala- Used in the Illicit Manufacture of Fentanyl and appropriated, it will likely be the last mazoo and Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo and as a List I Chemical’’ (RIN1117–AB12) re- time, and the state of Idaho must seek a continuing to the Indiana border; to the ceived on April 13, 2007; to the Committee on long-term solution; and Committee on Commerce, Science, and Whereas, in 2006, House Joint Memorial the Judiciary. Transportation. EC–1546. A communication from the Sec- No. 21 was adopted by the members of the retary, Judicial Conference of the United Second Regular Session of the Fifty-eighth SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 34 States, transmitting, the report of draft leg- Idaho Legislature to provide one option to Whereas, The Norfolk Southern Corpora- islation entitled ‘‘Civil Judicial Procedure, address the problem of declining forest re- tion is considering the sale of its Michigan Administration, and Technical Amendments ceipts by urging Congress to support federal lines from Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo and Act of 2007’’; to the Committee on the Judici- legislation transferring management of Na- from Ypsilanti to Kalamazoo. The Ypsilanti ary. tional Forest System lands within Idaho to to Kalamazoo line carries the state’s busiest EC–1547. A communication from the Sec- the state of Idaho to be managed for the ben- high-speed AMTRAK train, the Wolverine, retary, Judicial Conference of the United efit of the rural counties and schools; and which travels from Detroit to Chicago. The States, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- Whereas, in February 2007, a concurrent Wolverine travels on the Norfolk Southern port relative to the Conference’s determina- resolution was introduced in the Idaho House Railroad’s rail corridor from Ypsilanti to tions on four district courts that were sub- of Representatives and will be voted on by Kalamazoo until it connects with AMTRAK’s ject to review under the Conference’s Bien- the First Regular Session of the Fifty-ninth own line. Ridership on this line increased six nial Survey of Article III Judgeship Needs; Idaho Legislature authorizing Idaho’s Legis- percent in 2006 to 142,185 passengers; and to the Committee on the Judiciary. lative Council to appoint an interim com- Whereas, The Ypsilanti to Kalamazoo por- EC–1548. A communication from the Sec- mittee to undertake and complete an assess- tion of the Norfolk Southern line is a vital retary, Judicial Conference of the United ment of the decline in receipts on National link between Detroit and Chicago. Expand- States, transmitting, a draft bill intended to Forest System lands, which have historically ing the high-speed rail capacity on this line create additional Article III judgeships and been shared with counties. The goal of the is vital to the future development of this convert temporary judgeships to permanent interim committee’s recommendations will area. New industry, including coal energy, ones in the U.S. courts of appeals and dis- be to develop a federal, bipartisan, long-term biodiesel, and ethanol fuel plants are pro- trict courts; to the Committee on the Judici- solution that addresses sustainable manage- posed for Michigan and specifically along the ary. ment of federal forest lands to stabilize pay- I–94 corridor located near the Ypsilanti to f ments to Idaho’s forest counties, which help Kalamazoo rail line. Continued operation of support roads and schools, and to provide this line by Norfolk Southern is essential to PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS projects that enhance forest ecosystem expansion of new industry in this area. Over The following petitions and memo- health, provide employment opportunities, 150 railroad employees’ jobs are associated rials were laid before the Senate and and improve cooperative relationships with the rail traffic along this line; and were referred or ordered to lie on the among those who use and care about the Whereas, Norfolk Southern is a Class One lands the federal government manages. The railroad operator, earning revenue in excess table as indicated: resolution calls for the interim committee to of $250 million annually. As a Class One oper- POM–62. A joint resolution adopted by the work in cooperation and coordination with ator, Norfolk Southern has the capacity to House of Representatives of the Legislature the state of Idaho, its counties, its school maintain and promote the use of these lines. of the State of Idaho urging Congress to con- and highway districts, along with the recog- The proposed sale of the Ypsilanti to Kala- sider adoption of a resolution working to- nized Indian tribes of the state of Idaho. The mazoo and Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo lines ward the development of a federal bipar- resolution also provides that the interim will almost certainly place the lines under tisan, long-term solution that addresses sus- committee address National Forest System the management of a Class Three operator, a tainable management of federal forest lands lands, but only those lands that do not have rail company earning revenue of $20 million to stabilize payments, which help support special designations. The interim committee or less annually. A Class Three operator will roads and schools, to forest communities is directed to formulate a solution that will be far less likely to have the means to main- throughout the western states; to the Com- protect all valid existing rights, existing tain the lines, thus increasing the chance of mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- public access and activities, including hunt- accidents. Class Three operators also rely on estry. ing, fishing and recreation, and that will not federal grants for line and equipment main- HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 4 be construed to interfere with treaties or tenance, grants that are not always guaran- Whereas, it has long been the intent and any other obligations to the Indian tribes, teed; Now, therefore, be it policy of the federal government to hold commitments to county governments, or the Resolved by the Senate, That we express op- rural communities harmless from the cre- General Mining Law or Taylor Grazing Act: position to Norfolk Southern’s proposed sale ation of federal lands and in 1906 the Com- Now, therefore, be it of its rail lines from Ypsilanti to Kalamazoo mittee on Public Lands recognized that the Resolved by the members of the First Regular and Grand Rapids to Kalamazoo and con- presence of federal lands could create hard- Session of the Fifty-ninth Idaho Legislature, the tinuing to the Indiana border; and be it fur- ship for many counties as they provided lit- House of Representatives and the Senate con- ther tle revenue or commerce at that time; and curring therein, That the legislatures of all Resolved, That copies of this resolution be Whereas, in 1908, the federal government western states should consider the adoption transmitted to the President of the United promised rural counties twenty-five percent of similar resolutions, working toward the States Senate; the Speaker of the United

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.033 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4597 States House of Representatives; members of changes among the three countries that cir- American sovereignty and emphasize our the Michigan congressional delegation; the cumvent United States trade, transpor- commitment to the Pacific Northwest Eco- United States Department of Transpor- tation, homeland security and border secu- nomic Region (PNWER) and other coopera- tation, Surface Transportation Board; the rity functions and that it is the intention of tive working nations in mutual beneficial Norfolk Southern Corporation; AMTRAK; SPP to continue toward a North American goals; and and the Michigan Department of Transpor- Union in the future; and Whereas, this trilateral partnership to de- tation. Whereas, the actions taken by the SPP to velop a North American Union has never coordinate border security by eliminating been presented to Congress as an agreement POM–64. A joint resolution adopted by the obstacles to migration between Mexico and or treaty, and has had virtually no congres- Legislature of the State of Maine memori- the United States actually makes the United sional oversight; and alizing the President and Congress to fully States-Mexico border less secure and more Whereas, recent reports on internet news, fund the State Children’s Health Insurance vulnerable to possible terrorist activities, Friday, January 26, 2007, WorldNetDaily, Program; to the Committee on Finance. and Mexico is the primary source country of stating that Congressman Poe (R-Texas) asked about the U.S. Department of Trans- JOINT RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING THE PRESI- illegal immigrants, illegal drug entry and il- portation’s work with the trade group North DENT AND CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES legal human smuggling into the United American Super-Corridor Coalition, Inc. TO FULLY FUND THE STATE CHILDREN’S States; and (NASCO) and the department’s plans to build HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM Whereas, according to the U. S. Depart- ment of Commerce, the United States trade the Trans-Texas Corridor, Congressman Poe Whereas, the State of Maine and at least 13 deficits with Mexico and Canada have sig- was told that the NAFTA agreement super- other states have used up much of the fed- nificantly increased since the implementa- highway corridor plans exist to move goods eral subsidies for child health care even tion of the North American Free Trade from Mexico through the United States to though the fiscal year is still not ended, due Agreement (NAFTA), and the volume of im- Canada; and in part to the great need for these funds and Whereas, American citizens and state and ports from Mexico has soared since NAFTA, also to the inadequate formula by which the local governments throughout the United straining security checks at the U.S. border; money is apportioned; and States would be negatively impacted by the Whereas, the State Children’s Health In- and Whereas, the economic and physical secu- SPP process: Now, therefore, be it surance Program, known as SCHIP, was Resolved by the members of the First Regular rity of the United States is impaired by the started by Congress in 1998 and is funded by Session of the Fifty-ninth Idaho Legislature, the potential loss of control of its borders at- a combination of federal and state funds, as House of Representatives and the Senate con- tendant to the full operation of NAFTA and well as by the premiums of participants; and curring therein, That we emphatically urge the SPP; and Whereas, the program was envisioned as a and petition the Congress of the United Whereas, the regulatory and border secu- way to provide health insurance to the chil- States and particularly the congressional rity changes implemented and proposed by dren of the working poor and the current delegation representing the state of Idaho to the SPP violate and threaten United States budget is $5.5 billion, which is about $745 mil- use all efforts, energies and diligence to sovereignty; and lion short of the needs of the states; and withdraw the United States from any further Whereas, the NAFTA Superhighway Sys- Whereas, the State of Maine has used its participation in the Security and Prosperity tem from the west coast of Mexico through SCHIP funds to help significantly with Partnership of North America or any other the United States and into Canada has been MaineCare, which has provided valuable and bilateral or multilateral activity that seeks suggested as part of a North American Union important health care to more than 14,850 to advance, authorize, fund or in any way to facilitate trade between the SPP coun- children in our State, and without additional promote the creation of any structure to cre- tries; and federal aid 3,500 to 4,000 Maine children will ate any form of North American Union; and Whereas, the stability and economic via- go uninsured; and be it further bility of the U.S. ports along the western Whereas, the State of Maine needs at least Resolved, That House Concurrent Resolu- coast will be seriously compromised by huge $6,500,000 to help the children at risk and to tion 40 of the First Session of the 110th Con- cargos off-loaded at cheaper labor cost from keep our children healthy, and other states gress addresses the concern herein expressed foreign traders into the ports of Mazatlan have needs just as important: Now, thereby the state of Idaho; and be it further and Lazaro Cardenas; and fore, be it Resolved, That we are asking our congres- Whereas, the state of Texas has already ap- Resolved, That We, your Memorialists, on sional delegation, our U.S. Department of proved and begun planning of the Trans- behalf of the people we represent, take this Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters Texas Corridor, a major multi-modal trans- opportunity to request that the State Chil- and President Bush to reject appropriated portation project beginning at the United dren’s Health Insurance Program be fully federal fuel tax dollars for such SPP or States-Mexico border, which would serve as funded not only for the children of the State NAFTA when there is such a need for fuel an initial section of the NAFTA Super- of Maine, but for all of the children of the tax dollars to be dedicated to the needs of highway System; and working poor in the United States; and be it the states in the U.S. in order to maintain Whereas, plans of Asian trading powers to further our highway system; and be it further divert cargo from U.S. ports such as Los An- Resolved, That official copies of this resolu- Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the House geles to ports in Mexico will only put pres- tion, duly authenticated by the Secretary of of Representatives be, and she is hereby au- sure on border inspectors, interfering with State, be transmitted to President George W. thorized and directed to forward a copy of their already overwhelming job of inter- Bush, the Speaker of the United States this Memorial to the President of the Senate cepting the flow of drugs and illegals flowing House of Representatives, the President of and the Speaker of the House of Representa- into this country; and tives of Congress, and the congressional dele- the United States Senate and to each mem- Whereas, future unrestricted foreign truck- ber of the Maine Congressional Delegation. gation representing the State of Idaho in the ing into the United States can pose a safety Congress of the United States. hazard due to inadequate maintenance and POM–65. A joint resolution adopted by the inspection, and the Transportation Security POM–66. A joint resolution adopted by the House of Representatives of the Legislature Administration’s (TSA) lack of background House of Representatives of the Legislature of the State of Idaho urging Congress to use checks for violations in Mexico, lack of drug of the State of Idaho supporting the partici- all efforts, energies, and diligence to with- and alcohol testing, lack of enforcement of pation of Taiwan in a meaningful and appro- draw the U.S. from any further participation size and weight requirements and lack of na- priate way in the World Health Organization; in the Security and Prosperity Partnership tional security procedures, which threaten to the Committee on Foreign Relations. of North America, or any other bilateral or the American people and undermine the very multilateral activity that seeks to advance, HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 2 charge given to our homeland security agen- authorize, fund or in any way promote the Whereas, direct and unobstructed partici- cy to defend our borders against these creation of any structure to create any form pation in international health cooperation threats; and forums and programs is crucial for all parts of the North American Union; to the Com- Whereas, the Eisenhower National High- mittee on Foreign Relations. of the world, especially with today’s greater way System was designed for the national potential for the cross-border spread of var- HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 5 security of the United States for movement ious infectious diseases such as AIDS; and Whereas, the U.S. Department of State, of the military, purposes of commerce from Whereas, Taiwan’s achievements in the the U.S. Department of Commerce and the state to state, not from foreign countries, field of health care are substantial, including U.S. Department of Homeland Security par- and this highway system should not be com- life expectancy levels that are some of the ticipated in the formation of the Security promised by treaties or agreements with highest in Asia, maternal and infant mor- and Prosperity Partnership of North Amer- other countries that would supplant the con- tality rates that are comparable to those of ica (SPP) on March 23, 2005, representing a trol and management of our nation’s high- western countries, free hepatitis B vaccina- trilateral agreement between Canada, Mex- ways by our U.S. Department of Transpor- tions for children and the eradication of ico and the United States designed, among tation and the various states; and polio, cholera, smallpox and the plague; and other things, to facilitate common regu- Whereas, we strongly object to any treaty Whereas, the Centers for Disease Control latory schemes between these countries; and or agreement, which threatens to violate na- and Prevention and its Taiwanese counter- Whereas, reports issued by the SPP indi- tional security, private property, United part have enjoyed close collaboration on a cate that it has implemented regulatory States commerce, constitutional rights and wide range of public health issues; and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.068 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4598 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 Whereas, in recent years Taiwan has ex- rising costs that programs face. Instead of ployees and law enforcement officers nation- pressed a willingness to give financial and reaching more eligible kids with comprehen- wide and that can be used to gather and technical assistance to the international aid sive health, nutrition, and early education manage information on citizens. Such activi- and health activities supported by the World services, Head Start programs have been ties are not the business or responsibility of Health Organization; and forced to shorten program hours, cut back government; and Whereas, Taiwan’s population of twenty- staff, reduce parent coaching, and reduce Whereas, the REAL ID Act enables the cre- three million is larger than that of seventy- transportation and other services that help ation of additional massive private sector five percent of World Health Organization families participate: Now, therefore, be it databases, combining both transactional in- member states; and Resolved by the Senate, That we memori- formation and driver’s license information Whereas, the United States, in its 1994 Tai- alize the Congress of the United States to in- gained from scanning the machine-readable wan Policy Review, declared its intention to crease discretionary funding in the federal information contained on every driver’s li- support Taiwan’s participation in appro- budget for 2008 by $750 million in additional cense; and priate international organizations; and funding over current levels for Head Start Whereas, these public and private data- Whereas, Taiwan’s participation in the and $720 million in additional funding over bases are likely to contain numerous errors World Health Organization could bring many current levels for the Child Care and Devel- and false information, creating significant benefits to the state of health care, not only opment Block Grant (CCDBG). This request hardship for Americans attempting to verify in Taiwan, but also regionally and globally: does not address the unmet need in Head their identities in order to travel on com- Now, therefore, be it Start and CCDBG, but simply restores serv- mercial aircraft, open a bank account or per- Resolved by the members of the First Regular ices to children to the Fiscal Year 2002 level. form any of the numerous functions required Session of the Fifty-ninth Idaho Legislature, the This is a crucial first step toward meeting to live in the United States today; and House of Representatives and the Senate con- the need to provide quality early childhood Whereas, the federal trade commission es- curring therein, That we support the partici- education and care for at-risk children. In- timates that ten million Americans are vic- pation by Taiwan in a meaningful and appro- vesting in Head Start and quality child care tims of identity theft annually, and because priate way in the World Health Organization; now will improve education outcomes for our identity thieves are increasingly targeting and be it further nation’s at-risk children and will save lives motor vehicle departments, the REAL ID Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the House and money down the road; and be it further Act will enable the crime of identity theft by of Representatives be, and she is hereby au- Resolved, That copies of this resolution be making the personal information of all thorized and directed to forward a copy of transmitted to the President of the United Americans, including date of birth and signa- this Memorial to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United ture, accessible from tens of thousands of lo- States, to the President of the Senate and States House of Representatives, and the cations; and the Speaker of the House of Representatives members of the Michigan congressional dele- Whereas, the REAL ID Act requires a driv- of Congress, to the congressional delegation gation. er’s license to contain a person’s actual representing the State of Idaho in the Con- home address and makes no exception for in- gress of the United States, to the Director- POM–68. A joint resolution adopted by the dividuals in potential danger, such as under- General of the World Health Organization House of Representatives of the Legislature cover law enforcement personnel or victims and to the representative of the Taipei Eco- of the State of Idaho affirming the state’s of stalking or criminal harassment; and nomic and Cultural Representative Office in support of the United States campaign to se- Whereas, the REAL ID Act contains oner- the United States. cure our country and urging members of Ida- ous record verification and retention provi- ho’s congressional delegation to support sions that place unreasonable burdens on the POM–67. A resolution adopted by the Sen- measures to repeal the federal REAL ID Act motor vehicle division and on third parties ate of the Legislature of the State of Michi- of 2005; to the Committee on the Judiciary. required to verify records; and Whereas, the REAL ID Act will place enor- gan memorializing Congress to invest in HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 3 Head Start and quality child care; to the mous burdens on consumers seeking new Whereas, the state of Idaho recognizes the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and driver’s licenses, such as longer lines, in- Constitution of the United States as our Pensions. creased document requests, higher costs and charter of liberty and the Bill of Rights as a waiting period; and SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 27 affirming the fundamental and inalienable Whereas, the REAL ID Act will place state Whereas, Head Start and high-quality child rights of Americans, including freedom of motor vehicle staff on the front lines of im- care prepare children for school and life suc- privacy and freedom from unreasonable migration enforcement by forcing state em- cess by narrowing the educational achieve- searches; and ployees to determine federal citizenship and ment gap between lower- and upper-income Whereas, Idaho has a diverse population immigration status, excessively burdening kids, increasing high school graduation whose contributions are vital to the state’s both foreign-born applicants and motor vehi- rates, and reducing crime; and economy, culture and civic character; and cle staff; and Whereas, Studies show that at-risk chil- Whereas, Idaho is proud of its tradition of Whereas, the REAL ID Act passed without dren who attend Head Start and high-quality protecting the civil rights and liberties of all sufficient deliberation by Congress and did child care are better prepared for school. For its residents, affirming the fundamental not receive a hearing by any congressional example, Head Start narrows the literacy rights of all people and providing more ex- committee or a vote solely on its own mer- skills gap by nearly half between children in pansive protections than are granted by the its, despite opposition from more than six poverty and all children. The research is Constitution of the United States; and hundred organizations; and clear that quality early childhood education Whereas, the federal REAL ID Act of 2005, Whereas, the REAL ID Act eliminated a programs work to prevent crime. In Ypsi- Public Law 109–13, creates a national identi- process of negotiated rulemaking initiated lanti, Michigan, three-and four-year-olds fication card by mandating federal standards under the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism from low-income families who were ran- for state driver’s licenses and identification Prevention Act of 2004, which had convened domly assigned to a group that did not re- cards and requires states to share their federal, state and local policymakers, pri- ceive preschool preparation were five times motor vehicle databases; and vacy advocates and industry experts to solve more likely to have become chronic Whereas, the REAL ID Act mandates the the problem of the misuse of identity docu- lawbreakers by age 27 than those who were documents that states must require to issue ments; and assigned to the High/Scope Educational Re- driver’s licenses and requires states to place Whereas, the REAL ID Act provides little search Foundation’s Perry Preschool pro- uniform information on every driver’s li- security benefit and leaves identification gram; and cense in a standard, machine-readable for- systems open to insider fraud, counterfeit Whereas, Currently, only about half of eli- mat; and documentation and database failures: Now, gible low-income children can attend Head Whereas, the REAL ID Act prohibits fed- therefore, be it Start due to state and federal funding limi- eral agencies and federally-regulated com- Resolved by the members of the First Regular tations, and even fewer infants and toddlers. mercial aircraft from accepting a driver’s li- Session of the Fifty-ninth Idaho Legislature, the Less than five percent of eligible children cense or identification card issued by a state House of Representatives and the Senate con- three years old and younger are able to par- that has not fully complied with the act; and curring therein, That we support the govern- ticipate in Early Head Start. Moreover, only Whereas, the REAL ID Act places a costly, ment of the United States in its campaign to one in seven eligible children in working, unfunded mandate on states, with initial es- secure our country, while affirming the com- low-income families receives help paying for timates for Idaho of more than thirty-nine mitment of the United States that this cam- quality child care through the Child Care million dollars with ongoing annual expenses paign not be waged at the expense of the es- and Development Block Grant. The combina- of an estimated nine million three hundred sential civil rights and liberties of the citi- tion of state and federal money for preschool thousand dollars and a national estimate of zens of this country; and be it further has helped Michigan reach two of three at- more than eleven billion dollars over the Resolved, That it is the policy of the state risk four-year-olds and one of five at-risk next five years; and of Idaho to oppose any portion of the REAL three-year-olds; and Whereas, the REAL ID Act requires the ID Act that violates the rights and liberties Whereas, Real dollar funding levels for creation of a massive public sector database guaranteed under the constitutions of the Head Start and child care have been cut for containing information on every American State of Idaho and the United States, includ- the last several years, falling far behind the that is accessible to all motor vehicle em- ing the Bill of Rights. Be it further

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.071 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4599 Resolved, That the Idaho Legislature shall recommendations for improvements in med- and second times by unanimous con- enact no legislation nor authorize an appro- ical equipment and facility upgrades to med- sent, and referred as indicated: priation to implement the provisions of the ical centers, for two years, the Senate has By Mr. KYL (for himself, Mr. MCCON- REAL ID Act in Idaho, unless such appro- fought hard to prevent the possible consoli- NELL, Mr. GRASSLEY, Mr. LOTT, Mr. priation is used exclusively for the purpose dation of the four existing Veterans Admin- ENSIGN, Mr. HATCH, Mr. THOMAS, Mr. of undertaking a comprehensive analysis of istration medical care facilities in the great- SMITH, Mr. BUNNING, Mr. CRAPO, Mr. the costs of implementing the REAL ID Act er Boston area into one ‘‘mega-plex’’, since ROBERTS, Mr. DEMINT, Mr. ALEX- or to mount a constitutional challenge to the negative impact of removing thousands ANDER, Mr. MARTINEZ, Mr. the act by the state Attorney General. Be it of veterans from their familiar health care CHAMBLISS, Mr. BROWNBACK, Mr. further environment and forcing them to change CRAIG, Mr. ALLARD, Mr. GRAHAM, Mr. Resolved, That the Idaho Legislature urges physicians would have consequences that ENZI, Mr. INHOFE, Mr. BURR, and Mr. the Idaho congressional delegation to sup- cannot be balanced by the creation of one COBURN): port measures to repeal the REAL ID Act. Be modernized facility: Now, therefore, be it S. 14. A bill to repeal the sunset on certain it further Resolved, That the Massachusetts Senate tax rates and other incentives and to repeal Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the House hereby urges the President of the United the individual alternative minimum tax, and of Representatives be, and she is hereby au- States and Congress to address the Veterans for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- thorized and directed to forward a copy of Affairs Budget in a timely manner, include nance. this Memorial to the President of the United in the 2008 budget the Veterans Affairs’ rec- By Mr. HARKIN (for himself, Mr. States George W. Bush, the United States ommendations for improvements in medical ISAKSON, Mr. BINGAMAN, and Mr. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the equipment and facility upgrades to all Mas- LIEBERMAN): President of the Senate and the Speaker of sachusetts Veterans Administration Medical S. 1120. A bill to amend the Public Health the House of Representatives of Congress, Centers and to provide mandatory funding Service Act to provide grants for the train- the Governor of Idaho C. L. Otter and the for the Department of Veterans Affairs ing of graduate medical residents in preven- congressional delegation representing the Health Care system so as to appropriately tive medicine and public health; to the Com- State of Idaho in the Congress of the United honor and facilitate the healing of our vet- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and States. erans who selflessly risk their lives and well- Pensions. being to protect our freedom; and be it fur- By Mr. REED (for himself and Mr. POM–69. A resolution adopted by the Sen- ther COCHRAN): ate of the Legislature of the State of Massa- Resolved, That copies of these resolutions S. 1121. A bill to authorize the cancellation chusetts memorializing the President and be transmitted forthwith by the clerk of the of Perkins Loans for students who perform Congress to recommend more funding to the Senate to the President of the United States, public service as librarians in low-income Department of Veterans Affairs in the budg- the Presiding Officer of each branch of Con- schools and public libraries; to the Com- et for fiscal year 2008; to the Committee on gress and to the Members thereof from the mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and Veterans’ Affairs. Commonwealth. Pensions. RESOLUTION MEMORIALIZING GEORGE W. BUSH, POM–70. A resolution adopted by the Sen- By Mr. NELSON of Nebraska: PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, AND THE ate of the Legislature of the State of S. 1122. A bill to improve the calculation of UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO RECOMMEND Vermont urging Congress to enact legisla- highway mileage to medium and large hub MORE FUNDING TO THE DEPARTMENT OF tion to assure federal funding for veterans’ airports, and for other purposes; to the Com- VETERANS AFFAIRS IN THE FISCAL YEAR 08 health care; to the Committee on Veterans’ mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- FEDERAL BUDGET. Affairs. tation. Whereas, President George W. Bush has By Ms. STABENOW: ENATE RESOLUTION 13 recommended 34.2 billion for the Department S S. 1123. A bill to provide an extension for of Veterans Affairs in his proposed fiscal Whereas, the United States Department of filing a refund for the excise tax on toll tele- year 08 budget, which is an inadequate ap- Veterans Affairs (VA) provides medical care phone service, and to provide for a safe har- propriation to adequately address the health for veterans, including men and women, who bor for businesses claiming such a refund; to of our veterans; and have risked their lives to protect the secu- the Committee on Finance. Whereas, while the Bush Administration rity of our nation, and By Mr. LEVIN (for himself and Mr. continues to tout its recommendation for an Whereas, Congress appropriates funding for COLEMAN): increase of $2 billion over the previous fiscal VA health care each year as part of the dis- S. 1124. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- year as a ‘‘landmark budget’’, the reality is cretionary federal budget, and enue Code of 1986 to simplify, modernize, and that this 6% increase is barely enough to ac- Whereas, each year’s federal budget for improve public notice of and access to tax count for the cost of inflation and cannot veterans’ health care has been very seriously lien information by providing for a national, fund the need for improvements in medical under-funded, and Internet accessible, filing system for Federal care and expansion of services; and Whereas, this serious and now chronic tax liens, and for other purposes; to the Com- Whereas, more than 27,000 service members shortfall affects the access to and the qual- mittee on Finance. ity of medical care services that the VA pro- have returned home to Massachusetts since By Mr. LOTT (for himself, Mr. CONRAD, vides for our veterans, and September 11, 2001, having faced a new type Mr. SMITH, Mr. COCHRAN, Mr. NELSON Whereas, the priority of serving veterans of warfare in the form of improvised explo- of Nebraska, Mr. GRAHAM, Mr. must be absolute and irrevocable, and must sive devices and are, upon return home, in ISAKSON, Mr. STEVENS, Mr. HAGEL, serve as the foundation for the VA and of our need of specialized services and care; and Ms. LANDRIEU, and Mr. CRAPO): Whereas, the United States Government nation’s public policy: Now, therefore, be it S. 1125. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Resolved by the Senate, That the Senate of must provide to the Department of Veterans enue Code of 1986 to provide incentives to en- the State of Vermont urgently requests that Affairs all the tools available to make this courage investment in the expansion of Congress enact legislation to assure Federal specialized care available, particularly for freight rail infrastructure capacity and to funding for veterans’ health care, and be it head, spinal cord and sight injuries and the enhance modal tax equity; to the Committee further growing need for mental health services; and on Finance. Resolved, That Governor Douglas also re- Whereas, in 2006, the Veterans Health Ad- By Mr. LOTT (for himself, Ms. quest that Congress enact legislation to as- ministration’s Undersecretary for Health LANDRIEU, and Mr. COCHRAN): sure Federal funding for veterans’ health Policy and Coordination stated that some S. 1126. A bill to amend the Federal Water care, and be it further areas of the country did not have any mental Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate Pollution Control Act to expand and health services available and that other be directed to send a copy of this resolution strengthen cooperative efforts to monitor, areas had such long wait times that certain to the Governor, the President, the Vice restore, and protect the resource produc- services were ‘‘virtually inaccessible’’; and President, Secretary of Veterans Affairs, tivity, water quality, and marine ecosystems Whereas, unfortunately, once again, Cat- James Nicholson; Speaker of the House, of the Gulf of Mexico; to the Committee on egory 8 Veterans, those veterans deemed Nancy Pelosi; House Minority Leader, John Environment and Public Works. ‘‘high income’’ veterans by the Veterans Ad- Boehner; Senate Majority Leader, Harry By Mr. LEVIN: S. 1127. A bill for the relief of Alexandrea ministration—some who make as little as Reid; Senate Minority Leader, Trent Lott; to S. Banks Desutter and Nicholas S. Banks $28,000 a year—and who have been ineligible the members of the Vermont Congressional Desutter; to the Committee on the Judici- to enroll in the Veterans Administration delegation; and to Vermont veterans organi- ary. Health Care System since 2003, may continue zations. to be shut out of the Veterans Administra- By Mr. DODD (for himself, Mr. COCH- tion Health Care Systen if funding is not in- f RAN, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. STEVENS, Mr. creased, adding to the approximately 1 mil- INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND BINGAMAN, Mr. KERRY, and Mr. lion Category 8 Veterans who have been JOINT RESOLUTIONS ROCKEFELLER): turned away since 2003; and S. 1128. A bill to amend the National and Whereas, while the Massachusetts State The following bills and joint resolu- Community Service Act of 1990 to establish a Senate has supported the Veterans Affairs’ tions were introduced, read the first Summer of Service State grant program, a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.073 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4600 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 Summer of Service national direct grant through 13, 2007; to the Committee on Home- vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- program, and related national activities, and land Security and Governmental Affairs. sponsor of S. 261, a bill to amend title for other purposes; to the Committee on By Mr. ENZI (for himself and Mr. 18, United States Code, to strengthen Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. THOMAS): prohibitions against animal fighting, By Mr. SMITH (for himself and Mr. S. Res. 151. A resolution commending the BINGAMAN): University of Wyoming Cowgirls for their and for other purposes. S. 1129. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- championship victory in the Women’s Na- S. 294 enue Code of 1986 to modify the definition of tional Invitation Tournament; considered At the request of Mr. LAUTENBERG, governmental plan with respect to Indian and agreed to. the name of the Senator from Missouri By Mr. BUNNING (for himself, Mr. tribal governments; to the Committee on Fi- (Mrs. MCCASKILL) was added as a co- PRYOR, Mr. MCCONNELL, Mr. KERRY, nance. sponsor of S. 294, a bill to reauthorize By Mr. SMITH (for himself, Mrs. LIN- Mr. OBAMA, and Mr. CARDIN): Amtrak, and for other purposes. COLN, Ms. SNOWE, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. S. Res. 152. A resolution honoring the life- SCHUMER, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. KERRY, and time achievements of Jackie Robinson; con- S. 338 Mr. ROCKEFELLER): sidered and agreed to. At the request of Mr. CONRAD, the S. 1130. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. REID: name of the Senator from Pennsyl- S. Res. 153. A resolution making temporary enue Code of 1986 to restore, increase, and vania (Mr. SPECTER) was added as a co- make permanent the exclusion from gross in- appointments to the Select Committee on Ethics; considered and agreed to. sponsor of S. 338, a bill to amend title come for amounts received under qualified XVIII of the Social Security Act to en- group legal services plans; to the Committee f sure and foster continued patient qual- on Finance. ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS By Ms. COLLINS: ity of care by establishing facility and S. 1131. A bill to amend the Cooperative S. 3 patient criteria for long-term care hos- Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to establish a At the request of Mr. BAUCUS, the pitals and related improvements under program to provide assistance to States and name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. the Medicare program. nonprofit organizations to preserve suburban NELSON) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 359 forest land and open space and contain sub- 3, a bill to amend part D of title XVIII At the request of Mr. KENNEDY, the urban sprawl; to the Committee on Agri- of the Social Security Act to provide culture, Nutrition, and Forestry. name of the Senator from New York By Ms. MURKOWSKI: for fair prescription drug prices for (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- S. 1132. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Medicare beneficiaries. sor of S. 359, a bill to amend the Higher enue Code of 1986 to allow Indian tribes to re- S. 170 Education Act of 1965 to provide addi- ceive charitable contributions of apparently At the request of Mr. ENSIGN, the tional support to students. wholesome food; to the Committee on Fi- name of the Senator from Texas (Mr. S. 387 nance. ORNYN C ) was added as a cosponsor of S. YDEN By Mr. AKAKA (for himself, Mr. BINGA- At the request of Mr. W , the 170, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- name of the Senator from Arkansas MAN, and Mr. DURBIN): enue Code of 1986 to repeal the excise S. 1133. A bill to provide additional protec- (Mr. PRYOR) was added as a cosponsor tions for recipients of the earned income tax tax on telephone and other commu- of S. 387, a bill to prohibit the sale by credit; to the Committee on Finance. nications services. the Department of Defense of parts for By Mr. NELSON of Nebraska (for him- S. 180 F–14 fighter aircraft. self and Mr. BROWNBACK): At the request of Mrs. HUTCHISON, the S. 399 S. 1134. A bill to maximize transparency name of the Senator from Tennessee At the request of Mr. BUNNING, the and accountability for direct appropriations (Mr. CORKER) was added as a cosponsor name of the Senator from Vermont to non-Federal entities, including those in- of S. 180, a bill to provide a permanent (Mr. LEAHY) was added as a cosponsor stances when Congress appropriates funds to deduction for State and local general a Federal agency specifically in order to con- of S. 399, a bill to amend title XIX of sales taxes. tract with a congressionally identified non- the Social Security Act to include po- S. 185 Federal entity; to the Committee on Home- diatrists as physicians for purposes of At the request of Mr. LEAHY, the land Security and Governmental Affairs. covering physicians services under the By Mr. SESSIONS: name of the Senator from Michigan Medicaid program. S. 1135. A bill to amend chapter 1 of title 9, (Mr. LEVIN) was added as a cosponsor of United States Code, to establish fair proce- S. 185, a bill to restore habeas corpus S. 479 dures for arbitration clauses in contracts; to for those detained by the United At the request of Mr. HARKIN, the the Committee on the Judiciary. States. name of the Senator from New Mexico By Mrs. MURRAY (for herself, Mr. (Mr. DOMENICI) was added as a cospon- S. 211 BROWN, and Mr. DODD): sor of S. 479, a bill to reduce the inci- At the request of Mrs. CLINTON, the S. 1136. A bill to promote the economic se- dence of suicide among veterans. curity and safety of victims of domestic vio- name of the Senator from Massachu- lence, dating violence, sexual assault, or setts (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a co- S. 486 stalking, and for other purposes; to the Com- sponsor of S. 211, a bill to facilitate na- At the request of Mr. KENNEDY, the mittee on Finance. tionwide availability of 2–1–1 telephone name of the Senator from Wisconsin By Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, Mr. service for information and referral on (Mr. FEINGOLD) was added as a cospon- BAUCUS, and Ms. CANTWELL): human services, volunteer services, and sor of S. 486, a bill to establish require- S. 1137. A bill to authorize grants to carry ments for lenders and institutions of out projects to provide education on pre- for other purposes. venting teen pregnancies, and for other pur- S. 221 higher education in order to protect poses; to the Committee on Health, Edu- At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the students and other borrowers receiving cation, Labor, and Pensions. name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. educational loans. f DURBIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 543 221, a bill to amend title 9, United At the request of Mr. NELSON of Ne- SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND States Code, to provide for greater fair- braska, the name of the Senator from SENATE RESOLUTIONS ness in the arbitration process relating Utah (Mr. BENNETT) was added as a co- The following concurrent resolutions to livestock and poultry contracts. sponsor of S. 543, a bill to improve and Senate resolutions were read, and S. 254 Medicare beneficiary access by extend- referred (or acted upon), as indicated: At the request of Mr. ENZI, the names ing the 60 percent compliance thresh- By Mr. AKAKA (for himself, Mr. of the Senator from Florida (Mr. NEL- old used to determine whether a hos- VOINOVICH, Mr. LIEBERMAN, Ms. COL- SON) and the Senator from Delaware pital or unit of a hospital is an inpa- LINS, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. STEVENS, Mr. (Mr. CARPER) were added as cosponsors tient rehabilitation facility under the CARPER, Mr. WARNER, and Mr. LAU- of S. 254, a bill to award posthumously Medicare program. TENBERG): a Congressional gold medal to S. 566 S. Res. 150. A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that public servants Constantino Brumidi. At the request of Mr. NELSON of Ne- should be commended for their dedication S. 261 braska, the name of the Senator from and continued service to the Nation during At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the Michigan (Ms. STABENOW) was added as Public Service Recognition Week, May 7 name of the Senator from Pennsyl- a cosponsor of S. 566, a bill to amend

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.034 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4601 the Consolidated Farm and Rural De- (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- Senator from Maine (Ms. SNOWE) and velopment Act to establish a rural en- sor of S. 773, a bill to amend the Inter- the Senator from Louisiana (Ms. trepreneur and microenterprise assist- nal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Fed- LANDRIEU) were added as cosponsors of ance program. eral civilian and military retirees to S. 961, a bill to amend title 46, United S. 579 pay health insurance premiums on a States Code, to provide benefits to cer- At the request of Mr. HATCH, the pretax basis and to allow a deduction tain individuals who served in the name of the Senator from Arizona (Mr. for TRICARE supplemental premiums. United States merchant marine (in- MCCAIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 805 cluding the Army Transport Service 579, a bill to amend the Public Health At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the and the Naval Transport Service) dur- Service Act to authorize the Director name of the Senator from Massachu- ing World War II, and for other pur- of the National Institute of Environ- setts (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a co- poses. mental Health Sciences to make grants sponsor of S. 805, a bill to amend the S. 962 for the development and operation of Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to assist At the request of Mr. BINGAMAN, the research centers regarding environ- countries in sub-Saharan Africa in the names of the Senator from Wyoming mental factors that may be related to effort to achieve internationally recog- (Mr. THOMAS), the Senator from Idaho the etiology of breast cancer. nized goals in the treatment and pre- (Mr. CRAIG), the Senator from Ten- S. 621 vention of HIV/AIDS and other major nessee (Mr. CORKER) and the Senator At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the diseases and the reduction of maternal from Louisiana (Ms. LANDRIEU) were name of the Senator from Maryland and child mortality by improving added as cosponsors of S. 962, a bill to (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor human health care capacity and im- amend the Energy Policy Act of 2005 to of S. 621, a bill to establish commis- proving retention of medical health reauthorize and improve the carbon sions to review the facts and cir- professionals in sub-Saharan Africa, capture and storage research, develop- cumstances surrounding injustices suf- and for other purposes. ment, and demonstration program of fered by European Americans, Euro- the Department of Energy and for pean Latin Americans, and Jewish ref- S. 807 other purposes. ugees during World War II. At the request of Mrs. LINCOLN, the S. 970 S. 638 name of the Senator from Colorado At the request of Mr. ROBERTS, the (Mr. ALLARD) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. SMITH, the names of the Senator from Delaware of S. 807, a bill to amend the Com- names of the Senator from Alabama (Mr. CARPER), the Senator from Mary- prehensive Environmental Response (Mr. SESSIONS), the Senator from Min- land (Mr. CARDIN) and the Senator from Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 nesota (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) and the Sen- Oklahoma (Mr. COBURN) were added as to provide that manure shall not be ator from Maine (Ms. COLLINS) were cosponsors of S. 638, a bill to amend the considered to be a hazardous substance, added as cosponsors of S. 970, a bill to Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to pro- pollutant, or contaminant. impose sanctions on Iran and on other vide for collegiate housing and infra- S. 831 countries for assisting Iran in devel- structure grants. At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the oping a nuclear program, and for other S. 667 name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. purposes. At the request of Mr. BOND, the name WYDEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 982 of the Senator from Maine (Ms. SNOWE) 831, a bill to authorize States and local At the request of Mrs. CLINTON, the was added as a cosponsor of S. 667, a governments to prohibit the invest- name of the Senator from Wisconsin bill to expand programs of early child- ment of State assets in any company (Mr. KOHL) was added as a cosponsor of hood home visitation that increase that has a qualifying business relation- S. 982, a bill to amend the Public school readiness, child abuse and ne- ship with Sudan. Health Service Act to provide for inte- glect prevention, and early identifica- S. 902 gration of mental health services and tion of developmental and health At the request of Mr. HARKIN, the mental health treatment outreach delays, including potential mental name of the Senator from Minnesota teams, and for other purposes. health concerns, and for other pur- (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) was added as a co- S. 991 poses. sponsor of S. 902, a bill to provide sup- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the S. 675 port and assistance for families of names of the Senator from Delaware At the request of Mr. HARKIN, the members of the National Guard and (Mr. CARPER) and the Senator from name of the Senator from Arkansas Reserve who are undergoing deploy- Maine (Ms. COLLINS) were added as co- (Mrs. LINCOLN) was added as a cospon- ment, and for other purposes. sponsors of S. 991, a bill to establish sor of S. 675, a bill to provide competi- S. 911 the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad tive grants for training court reporters At the request of Mr. BUNNING, his Foundation under the authorities of and closed captioners to meet require- name was added as a cosponsor of S. the Mutual Educational and Cultural ments for realtime writers under the 911, a bill to amend the Public Health Exchange Act of 1961. Telecommunications Act of 1996, and Service Act to advance medical re- S. 1018 for other purposes. search and treatments into pediatric At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the S. 742 cancers, ensure patients and families name of the Senator from Rhode Island At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the have access to the current treatments (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) was added as a co- name of the Senator from Maryland and information regarding pediatric sponsor of S. 1018, a bill to address se- (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor cancers, establish a population-based curity risks posed by global climate of S. 742, a bill to amend the Toxic Sub- national childhood cancer database, change and for other purposes. stances Control Act to reduce the and promote public awareness of pedi- health risks posed by asbestos-con- S. 1040 taining products, and for other pur- atric cancers. At the request of Mr. SHELBY, the poses. S. 958 name of the Senator from Idaho (Mr. S. 761 At the request of Mr. SESSIONS, the CRAIG) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. REID, the name name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. 1040, a bill to repeal the current Inter- of the Senator from Mississippi (Mr. BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of S. nal Revenue Code and replace it with a COCHRAN) was added as a cosponsor of 958, a bill to establish an adolescent lit- flat tax, thereby guaranteeing eco- S. 761, a bill to invest in innovation eracy program. nomic growth and greater fairness for and education to improve the competi- S. 961 all Americans. tiveness of the United States in the At the request of Mr. NELSON of Ne- S. 1055 global economy. braska, the names of the Senator from At the request of Mr. BIDEN, the S. 773 Arkansas (Mrs. LINCOLN), the Senator name of the Senator from Delaware At the request of Mr. WARNER, the from Maryland (Ms. MIKULSKI), the (Mr. CARPER) was added as a cosponsor name of the Senator from New York Senator from Ohio (Mr. BROWN), the of S. 1055, a bill to promote the future

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.036 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4602 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 of the American automobile industry, MARTINEZ) was added as a cosponsor of cans are willing to work harder and be and for other purposes. amendment No. 874 intended to be pro- more productive in their labor, thus S. 1085 posed to S. 372, an original bill to au- creating more new goods and services At the request of Mr. THUNE, the thorize appropriations for fiscal year at lower costs. Americans will continue name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. 2007 for the intelligence and intel- to be productive and contribute to our SNOWE) was added as a cosponsor of S. ligence-related activities of the United strong economy if we reject marginal 1085, a bill to require air carriers to States Government, the Intelligence tax rate increases on the income they publish customer service data and Community Management Account, and earn. Studies have shown that people flight delay history. the Central Intelligence Agency Re- really do work more if the tax imposed on their extra labor is relatively low. S. 1092 tirement and Disability System, and Arizona State University’s distin- At the request of Mr. HAGEL, the for other purposes. guished economics professor, Dr. Ed- names of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. AMENDMENT NO. 875 ward Prescott, won a Nobel Prize in ec- INOUYE) and the Senator from New At the request of Mr. CHAMBLISS, the onomics for research that proved this Mexico (Mr. DOMENICI) were added as name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. theory. cosponsors of S. 1092, a bill to tempo- MARTINEZ) was added as a cosponsor of It’s interesting that the big invest- rarily increase the number of visas amendment No. 875 intended to be pro- ment bank, Goldman Sachs, studied which may be issued to certain highly posed to S. 372, an original bill to au- what would happen if taxes increase skilled workers. thorize appropriations for fiscal year 2007 for the intelligence and intel- across-the-board, as is scheduled to S. 1114 ligence-related activities of the United happen in 2011 when the various tax At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the States Government, the Intelligence rates and other provisions enacted name of the Senator from Maryland Community Management Account, and since 2001 expire. The short answer is (Ms. MIKULSKI) was added as a cospon- the Central Intelligence Agency Re- an immediate recession—a recession sor of S. 1114, a bill to reiterate the ex- tirement and Disability System, and that would not be avoided even if the clusivity of the Foreign Intelligence for other purposes. Federal Reserve acted to cut interest Surveillance Act of 1978 as the sole au- f rates. This study demonstrates very thority to permit the conduct of elec- clearly why Congress cannot allow this tronic surveillance, to modernize sur- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED tax hike to happen. veillance authorities, and for other BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS The President proposed in his fiscal purposes. By Mr. KYL (for himself, Mr. year 2008 budget to make the tax rates S. CON. RES. 22 MCCONNELL, Mr. GRASSLEY, Mr. and many other tax incentives enacted At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the LOTT, Mr. ENSIGN, Mr. HATCH, since 2001 permanent. In marked con- name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. Mr. THOMAS, Mr. SMITH, Mr. trast, Democrats have produced budget INOUYE) was added as a cosponsor of S. BUNNING, Mr. CRAPO, Mr. ROB- resolutions in both the House and the Con. Res. 22, a concurrent resolution ERTS, Mr. DEMINT, Mr. ALEX- Senate that assume all of these tax expressing the sense of the Congress ANDER, Mr. MARTINEZ, Mr. policies will expire and taxes will in- that the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory CHAMBLISS, Mr. BROWNBACK, crease dramatically for virtually every Committee should recommend to the Mr. CRAIG, Mr. ALLARD, Mr. American. In fact, the average family Postmaster General that a commemo- GRAHAM, Mr. ENZI, Mr. INHOFE, will see its taxes increase by about rative postage stamp be issued to pro- Mr. BURR, and Mr. COBURN): $3,675 if the Democrats are successful mote public awareness of Down syn- S. 14. A bill to repeal the sunset on in canceling the tax relief. Today, Sen- drome. certain tax rates and other incentives ate Republicans are going on the S. RES. 118 and to repeal the individual alternative record in support of making these im- At the request of Mr. LEVIN, the minimum tax, and for other purposes; portant tax policies permanent and in name of the Senator from California to the Committee on Finance. opposition to plans by Democrats to (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) was added as a co- Mr. KYL. Mr. President, today, on allow these tax increases to occur. sponsor of S. Res. 118, a resolution urg- behalf of the Senate Republican leader- Our legislation underscores our coming the Government of Canada to end ship, I am introducing the Invest in mitment to American families and to a the commercial seal hunt. America Act, a comprehensive set of strong American economy by preventing the largest tax increase in S. RES. 123 legislative proposals that are designed keep American families and the Amer- American history. We believe that At the request of Mr. DEMINT, the American families pay enough in names of the Senator from Nevada (Mr. ican economy on the path of continued prosperity by preventing—the largest taxes—indeed, revenues are running ENSIGN), the Senator from Arizona (Mr. tax increase in our Nation’s history—a above historical levels. The Invest in MCCAIN), the Senator from Wyoming tax increase that is scheduled to hap- America Act makes all of the current- (Mr. ENZI), the Senator from Florida pen in 2011 if Congress fails to extend law tax rates permanent so that no (Mr. MARTINEZ) and the Senator from current tax policies. American family faces an automatic Missouri (Mrs. MCCASKILL) were added The American economy is the envy of tax hike in 2011. I want to underscore as cosponsors of S. Res. 123, a resolu- the developed world. Our unemploy- that Republicans believe that no Amer- tion reforming the congressional ear- ment rate is just 4.4 percent, and 7.8 ican family should face a tax in- mark process. million new jobs have been created crease—not young people just entering AMENDMENT NO. 873 since mid–2003. Not only are more the job market and other lower-income At the request of Mr. CHAMBLISS, the Americans working than ever before, Americans who are benefiting so sub- name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. but the benefits of our growing econ- stantially from the 10 percent bracket; MARTINEZ) was added as a cosponsor of omy are broadly shared by all Ameri- not middle-income families; and not amendment No. 873 intended to be pro- cans. Real, inflation-adjusted wages more successful Americans, including posed to S. 372, an original bill to au- rose 2.2 percent in the last 12 months— the almost 80 percent of taxpayers in thorize appropriations for fiscal year faster than the average rate of the late the top bracket who report small busi- 2007 for the intelligence and intel- 1990s. This meant an extra $1,279 in the ness income. ligence-related activities of the United past year for the typical family with Our legislation also invests in Amer- States Government, the Intelligence two wage earners. To keep our econ- ican families by making the $1,OOO- Community Management Account, and omy growing on this strong and sus- per-child tax credit, the marriage pen- the Central Intelligence Agency Re- tainable path, we must avoid tax in- alty relief, and the other components tirement and Disability System, and creases that could damage our econ- of the Economic Growth and Tax Relief for other purposes. omy. Reconciliation Act—EGTRRA—of 2001 AMENDMENT NO. 874 America’s economy has been growing permanent. American moms and dads At the request of Mr. CHAMBLISS, the at a strong and sustainable pace due in face an enormous and unexpected re- name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. large measure to the fact that Ameri- duction in the child tax credit in 2011,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.037 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4603 when the child tax credit is scheduled tered from the AMT demonstrate what rely on their investment income. Ac- to be cut in half. Republicans know happens when Congress tries to target cording to statistics calculated by the that the child tax credit helps count- a tax specifically at the ‘‘wealthy’’—we Joint Committee on Taxation, the vast less parents offset some of the costs as- almost always end up hitting the broad majority of elderly taxpayers who re- sociated with raising their children, swath of middle-income families. The port capital gains and dividends in- and we know that reducing the credit AMT was never intended to hit middle- come have incomes under $100,000. by 50 percent will be a terrible blow to income taxpayers, and Congress ought In addition to reducing tax rates to many families. That’s why Republicans to repeal it before it imposes unneces- encourage more business investment, support making the current $1,000 per- sary and unexpected taxes on more and Congress also significantly increased child tax credit permanent. more families. the amount of investment that small Married couples will face an unwel- Republicans understand that, in addi- businesses may expense in a given come surprise when the marriage pen- tion to not raising taxes on families, year. This has helped countless small alty relief expires. The marriage pen- we cannot take our strong and dy- businesses expand their operations by alty relief the Republicans enacted is namic economy for granted; we believe making the purchase of new equipment aimed squarely at middle-income fami- we must invest in American competi- more cost-effective. Unfortunately, lies because the relief is only provided tiveness. While our legislation should these increased levels are only in effect for the standard deduction and the 15- not be viewed as a comprehensive ap- through 2009. Small businesses create percent bracket. Republicans believe proach to improving American com- most new jobs in the U.S. and comprise there is no reason a married couple petitiveness, we believe a necessary half of our private gross domestic prod- should face a higher tax burden than first step is to prevent tax increases uct, so the Invest in America Act pro- they would as two single taxpayers, that will surely hurt America’s com- poses to make the enhanced small busi- and so we propose to invest in Amer- petitive position in the world economy. ness expensing levels permanent. ican families by making the marriage Specifically, the Invest in America Act While low tax rates on income and penalty relief permanent. makes permanent the current tax rates investments are essential to keeping The Invest in America Act under- for capital gains and dividends; it America competitive, Republicans scores our commitment to investing in makes the increased expensing know that many countries around the America’s future by making the impor- amounts available for small businesses world are specifically and aggressively tant education-related tax benefits en- permanent; and it makes permanent working to attract some of the most acted in recent years permanent. This the newly-enhanced research and devel- high-quality jobs and economic activi- will help countless middle-income opment tax credit. ties available: research and develop- Americans afford higher education America cannot expect to be the ment. America hinders its ability to costs. Our legislation invests in Amer- home for worldwide capital markets if attract and retain R&D here because ica’s future by extending the tuition it is hostile to American investors, so the tax incentives we give to encourage deduction, extending the modifications the Invest in America Act makes the R&D are not permanent law, but must to Coverdell education savings ac- existing tax rates for long-term capital be extended every year or so. This counts, extending certain provisions gains and for qualified dividends per- makes it very difficult for companies for the student loan interest deduction, manent. These lower tax rates imple- to commit to large-scale R&D invest- and extending the exclusion for em- mented in 2003 and extended in 2006 ments in the U.S., when other coun- ployer-provided educational assistance. have encouraged investors of all in- tries are offering permanent or longer- We also propose to permanently extend come categories to put their money to term tax incentives. To ensure that the $250 deduction for expenses of ele- work in the markets, generating solid America remains the most attractive mentary and secondary school teach- returns for American investors and place for R&D, the Invest in America ers. providing much needed capital for Act makes the R&D tax credit perma- Republicans also believe that parents American businesses to grow and cre- nent. ought to be able to pass on the fruits of ate new jobs. It has been 4 years since The Invest in America Act also ac- their labor to their children without these lower rates were enacted-long knowledges that the U.S. tax system the Federal death tax confiscating half enough for us to determine once and imposes a costly and frustrating bur- of their estate, above a small exemp- for all that lower rates really do en- den on taxpayers, with filers spending tion amount. The death tax hits family courage increased economic activity. an average 30 hours to complete the businesses and family farms and Growth since the 2003 tax relief has typical Form 1040. Six in ten Ameri- ranches the hardest because the owners averaged more than 3.5 percent, while cans opt instead to hire a professional. are often not wealthy families, but it averaged just 1.3 percent from the The billions of dollars spent each year rather have most of their assets tied up first quarter of 2001 through the second simply complying with the tax system in the value of the business or the quarter of 2003. The Dow Jones Indus- could be put to a much better, and value of the land. And while the death trial Average has risen by 40 percent more economically beneficial, use. The tax hurts families, it also hurts our since the lower investment tax rates Invest in America Act expresses the economy if it forces family businesses were enacted. The average 401(k) bal- Sense of the Senate that the Finance to close down, eliminating good-paying ance has risen by about 65 percent Committee should report tax sim- jobs in the process. Under current law, since 2003. All of this investment activ- plification legislation by the end of the the death tax is repealed in 2010, but ity makes it easier for entrepreneurs year to make the tax system fair, springs back to life in 2011, when more and businesses to raise funds to expand transparent, and efficient, without than 131,000 families will have to file and grow their businesses, create more raising tax rates. estate tax returns in that year alone. jobs, and improve standards of living Finally, I want to address the effect Americans pay taxes throughout their around the country. all of the tax changes have had on our lives, and Republicans believe they It’s interesting to note that, while budget deficit and to dispute the no- should not have more than half of their the conventional wisdom is that these tion that Congress must raise taxes assets taken in taxes at death too, so lower investment tax rates only benefit elsewhere if we are going to make ex- the Invest in America Act makes re- ‘‘the rich,’’ half of all Americans own isting tax rates and incentives perma- peal of the death tax permanent. shares of stock, either on their own or nent and repeal the AMT. It is impor- The Invest in America Act goes be- in their retirement savings. In fact, tant for all Americans to know that all yond the 2001 and 2003 tax relief laws most of the Americans who are bene- of the additional tax revenue flowing and also repeals—once and for all—the fiting from these lower rates are mid- into the Treasury from our growing individual Alternative Minimum Tax dle-income taxpayers. Moreover, the economy, hardworking Americans, and (AMT). If you go by rhetoric alone, current 5 percent rate, which is avail- from profitable investments has caused there is overwhelming bipartisan sup- able for the lower-income investors and our budget deficit to shrink below 2 port in Congress for repealing the drops to zero in 2008, is a sometimes- percent of GDP—well below its histor- AMT. But, American taxpayers want forgotten benefit, but it is especially ical average. If we stay on our current action. The problems we have encoun- important to our senior citizens who progrowth path, reject tax increases,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.043 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4604 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 and impose reasonable restraints on The LIBRARIAN Act amends the (2) in paragraph (3)(A)(i), by striking out spending growth, we will balance the Higher Education Act to provide for ‘‘(H), or (I)’’ and inserting ‘‘(H), (I), or (J)’’. budget by 2012, if not sooner. Perkins loan forgiveness to individuals (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments As for the notion that Congress must made by subsection (a) shall apply with re- with master’s degrees in library spect to any year of service that is com- ‘‘pay for’’ tax relief with tax increases, science who become librarians in low- pleted after the date of enactment of this I would note that the official estimates income schools and public libraries. Li- Act. about how much certain tax provisions brarians working full-time in low-in- will ‘‘cost’’ the Treasury are just that, come areas would qualify for up to 100 By Mr. LEVIN (for himself and estimates. And they often prove to be percent Perkins loan forgiveness de- Mr. COLEMAN): wrong. For example, since 2003, the pending on the number of years they S. 1124. A bill to amend the Internal Treasury has collected $133 billion serve. Revenue Code of 1986 to simplify, mod- more in capital gains revenue than was Libraries and librarians play an es- ernize, and improve public notice of originally projected by the Congres- sential role in our schools and commu- and access to tax lien information by sional Budget Office; revenues have ex- nities; this legislation aims to provide providing for a national, Internet ac- ceeded official CBO projections by 68 the same support to librarians as other cessible, filing system for Federal tax percent. Second, the concept of requir- public service workers receive, includ- liens, and for other purposes; to the ing corresponding tax increases falsely ing teachers working in low-income Committee on Finance. assumes that the Government is enti- schools, Head Start staff, law enforce- Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, today is tled to the revenue, when it really be- ment officials, and nurses or medical the day that millions of Americans longs to the American people. Third, technicians. across this country perform an impor- revenues are running above their his- Today we celebrate National Library tant civic duty by paying their taxes. torical average of about 18.2 percent Workers Day, a day to recognize the It is also a day when many Members of and are projected to continue increas- valuable contributions made by librar- Congress take the time to reflect on ing even if we make the current tax ians and others who work in libraries. the state of the Federal tax system and structure permanent, as we propose in With this legislation, we have an op- consider how we can strengthen it, the Invest in America Act. If we raise portunity to encourage more individ- simplify it, make it more fair, and, in taxes in order to extend the tax poli- uals to pursue the field of library a responsible way, ease the tax burden cies, we will be taking even more re- science and retain those skilled librar- on our citizens. sources out of the private sector and ians who are already serving in our Earlier this year, I introduced the spending them on government pro- low-income schools and communities. Stop Tax Haven Abuse Act, S. 681, to grams, which will certainly damage I was pleased that the text of this bill strengthen our tax system. That bipar- our economy. To protect our growing was included in the Higher Education tisan bill, which I introduced with my economy, I believe we must ensure that Act reauthorization bill approved by colleagues, Senators NORM COLEMAN revenues, as a percentage of our econ- the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and BARACK OBAMA, targets out- omy, do not rise much above their cur- and Pensions Committee last Congress. rageous, offshore tax abuses that drain rent level. I will again press for its inclusion in $100 billion each year from the U.S. I am pleased to be the lead sponsor of the reauthorization bill the Committee Treasury at the expense of honest, this important legislation that under- is currently working to develop. I urge hardworking American families who scores the commitment of the Senate my colleagues to join us in this endeav- pay their fair share. Offshore tax Republican leadership to investing in or by cosponsoring the LIBRARIAN abuses eat away at the foundations of American families, America’s future, Act. our tax system, draining billions in tax and American competitiveness. Amer- I ask unanimous consent that the revenue, diverting substantial IRS en- ica’s economy is growing at a strong text of this bill be printed in the forcement resources, and demoralizing and sustainable level, to the benefit of RECORD. honest taxpayers who play by the all American families, but this growth There being no objection, the bill was rules. S. 681 offers a host of provisions will not continue if we unwisely allow ordered to be printed in the RECORD, as to stop offshore abuses, and I urge my taxes to be increased on work, savings, follows: colleagues to take a serious look at and investment—the very engines of S. 1121 that legislation on this tax day. If en- economic growth. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- acted, it would make our tax system resentatives of the United States of America in more effective, more fair, and more By Mr. REED (for himself and Congress assembled, productive. It deserves to be enacted Mr. COCHRAN): SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. into law this year. S. 1121. A bill to authorize the can- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Librarian Stopping offshore tax abuse, how- cellation of Perkins Loans for students Incentive to Boost Recruitment and Reten- ever, is far from the only tax problem who perform public service as librar- tion in Areas of Need Act of 2007’’ or the ‘‘LI- that needs to be addressed if we are to ians in low-income schools and public BRARIAN Act’’. achieve a fair and cost effective tax libraries; to the Committee on Health, SEC. 2. LOAN CANCELLATION. system. So today, I am introducing (a) AMENDMENTS.—Section 465(a) of the Education, Labor, and Pensions. Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. with Senator COLEMAN legislation of- Mr. REED. Mr. President, I am joined 1087ee(a)) is amended— fering a cure to a completely different by Mr. COCHRAN in introducing impor- (1) in paragraph (2)— tax problem. The target of this legisla- tant legislation, the Librarian Incen- (A) by striking ‘‘section 111(c)’’ in subpara- tion is better administration of Federal tive to Boost Recruitment and Reten- graph (A) and inserting ‘‘section 1113(a)(5)’’; tax liens. tion in Areas of Need (LIBRARIAN) (B) by striking ‘‘or’’ at the end of subpara- It has been 40 years since Congress Act, to support our Nation’s librarians. graph (H); made any significant changes to the This legislation is also being intro- (C) by striking the period at the end of sub- laws regulating how the Internal Rev- paragraph (I) and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and enue Service (IRS) files Federal tax duced in the other body by Representa- (D) by inserting after subparagraph (I) the tive BECERRA, along with Representa- following new subparagraph: liens and makes them public. Right tives GRIJALVA, EHLERS, and SHIMKUS. ‘‘(J) as a full time librarian, if the librar- now, outdated laws are forcing the IRS Public libraries and schools across ian has a master’s degree in library science to waste taxpayer dollars on an old- the Nation are experiencing a shortage and is employed in— fashioned, inefficient, and burdensome of librarians. Approximately 25 percent ‘‘(i) an elementary school or secondary paper tax lien filing system that should of America’s school libraries do not school that is eligible for assistance under be replaced by a modernized electronic have a State certified library media title I of the Elementary and Secondary Edu- filing system capable of operating at a specialist on staff and with more than cation Act of 1965; or fraction of the cost. It is time to bring ‘‘(ii) a public library that serves a geo- three in five librarians becoming eligi- graphic area that contains 1 or more schools the Federal tax lien system into the ble for retirement in the next decade eligible for assistance under title I of the El- 21st century. That’s why I am intro- this shortage is anticipated to only ementary and Secondary Education Act of ducing today, along with Senator worsen. 1965.’’; and COLEMAN, the Tax Lien Simplification

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.045 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4605 Act, which will simplify the process of to be corrected, or a related certificate local filings. It would establish the pri- recording tax liens at an estimated of discharge, subordination, or non- ority of Federal tax liens according to ten-year cost savings of over half a bil- attachment needs to be filed, or when a the date and time that the relevant no- lion dollars, while at the same time tax liability has been resolved and the tice was filed in the national registry, improving taxpayer service by speeding IRS wants to release a lien. Each usu- in the same way that priorities are cur- up the release of liens after taxes are ally requires a paper filing in one or rently established from the date and paid. more local recording offices. If a paper time of filing in local recording offices. Tax liens are a principal way to col- filing is lost or misplaced, the IRS The bill would also shorten the time al- lect payment from persons who are de- often has to send an employee in per- lowed to release a tax lien, after the re- linquent in paying their taxes. By law, son to deal with the problem, adding lated tax liability has been resolved, Federal tax liens arise automatically travel costs to other administrative ex- from 30 days to 10 days. ten days after a taxpayer’s failure to penses. To establish this new electronic fil- pay an assessed tax. The lien automati- The paper filing system imposes ing system, the bill would give the cally attaches to the taxpayer’s real similar burdens on other persons deal- Treasury Secretary express authority and personal property and remains in ing with the tax lien system. Any per- to issue regulations or other guidance effect until the tax is paid. However, son who is the subject of a tax lien, for governing the establishment and main- the tax lien is not effective against example, or who is a creditor trying to tenance of the registry. Among other other creditors owed money by the locate a tax lien, is required to make a obligations, Treasury would be re- same taxpayer, until a notice of the physical trip to one or more local required to ensure that the registry was Federal tax lien is publicly recorded. cording offices to search the documents secure and prevent data tampering. In Generally, between competing credi- and see if a lien has been filed. Cur- addition, prior to the implementation tors, the first to file notice has pri- rently, there is no central database of of the national registry, the Treasury ority, so the filing of tax lien notices is locally filed tax liens that can be Secretary would be required to review very important to the government and accessed by any member of the public the information currently included in to the taxpaying public if taxes are to or by any taxpayer that is the subject public tax lien filings to determine be collected from persons who don’t of a federal tax lien. Not even IRS per- whether any of that information pay them. sonnel have access to such a tax lien should be excluded or protected from Current law requires the IRS to file database. It does not exist. disclosure on the Internet. For exam- public notices of Federal tax liens in The result is an inefficient, costly, ple, the Treasury Secretary would be State, county, or city recording offices and burdensome paper filing system expected to prevent the disclosure of around the country. There are cur- that can and should be completely re- social security numbers that are currently more than 4,100 of these local re- vamped. Businesses across the country rently included in many public tax lien cording offices, many of which have de- learned long ago that electronic filing filings, but if disclosed on the Internet, veloped specific rules regulating how systems outperform paper; they save could facilitate identity theft. While such liens must be formatted and filed personnel costs, material costs, time, such identifying information could in their jurisdictions. This patchwork and client frustration. Government continue to be included in a tax lien system developed more by default than agencies have learned the same thing filing to ensure that the filing is di- by plan, because those local offices as they have moved to electronic data- rected toward the correct person, the were where documents affecting title bases and recordkeeping, including sys- registry could be constructed to pre- to real property, judgments, and other tems made available to the public on vent such information from being dis- lien and security interest documents the Internet. Among the many exam- closed publicly and to instead provide had always been filed. ples of government-sponsored, Inter- such information only upon request In 1966, to help the IRS comply with net-based systems currently in oper- from appropriate persons involved in a proliferating set of local filing rules ation are the contractor registry oper- the enforcement of the tax lien or col- for Federal tax liens, Congress passed ated by the General Services Adminis- lection of the tax debt. By requiring the Tax Lien Act to standardize cer- tration to allow persons to register to this information review prior to imple- tain practices. This act provided, for bid on federal contracts, the license menting the national tax lien registry, example, that liens against real estate registry operated by the Federal Com- the bill is expected to provide greater had to be filed where the property was munications Commission to allow the protection of some taxpayer informa- located, and required each State to des- public to search radio licenses, and the tion than occurs in current tax lien fil- ignate a single place to file Federal tax registry operated by the U.S. Patent ings. liens applicable to personal property. and Trademark Office to allow the pub- The bill would require the Treasury Most States subsequently adopted a lic to search currently registered pat- Secretary to establish a functioning version of the Uniform Tax Lien Filing ents and trademarks. Each of these tax lien registry by January 1, 2009, but Act, enabling the IRS to file a notice of systems has saved taxpayer money, would also allow the IRS to continue tax lien in each locality where the tax- while improving service to the public. to use the existing paper-based tax lien payer’s real estate is located, and a sin- Just as government agencies gave up filing system, in parallel with the new gle notice where the taxpayer resides the horse and buggy for the auto- system, for an appropriate period to to reach any personal property. For mobile, it is time for the IRS to move ensure a smooth transition. The IRS corporations, States typically require from a decentralized, paper-based tax has indicated that it would be able to the IRS to file a notice to attach real lien filing system to an electronic na- establish an electronic tax lien filing estate in each locality where the real tional tax lien registry. But the IRS’ system within the specified time pe- estate is located, and a separate notice, hands are tied, until the Congress riod. usually at the State level, to attach changes the laws holding back mod- Moving to a centralized, electronic other types of property. There are ernization of the federal tax lien filing tax lien filing system, an Internet- often additional rules for trusts and system. based National Registry of tax liens, partnerships. The end result of the law The bill we are introducing today would accomplish at least three objec- was to reduce some but not all of the would make the changes necessary to tives. It would save taxpayer dollars, multiple sets of rules regulating the enable the IRS to take immediate steps speed the process for filing and releas- local filing of Federal tax liens. to simplify and modernize the Federal ing tax liens, and simplify the process In addition, in most cases, the IRS tax lien filing system. The operative for researching Federal tax liens for continued to have to physically file the provisions would require the IRS to taxpayers and creditors. tax lien in the appropriate local re- create a national registry for the filing The IRS estimates that moving from cording office. In most cases, that fil- of tax lien notices as an electronic a paper-based, locally filed tax lien sys- ing is accomplished by mail. Some ju- database that is Internet accessible tem to an Internet-based, Federal tax risdictions also allow electronic filings, and searchable by the public at no cost. lien filing system would save about but those jurisdictions are few and far It would mandate the use of this sys- $570 million over 10 years. That’s half a between. The same is true if a lien has tem in place of the existing system of billion dollars in cost savings. These

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.021 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4606 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 savings would come from the elimi- ducing the possibility for mistakes and dress, the type of tax, the tax period, and nation of State filing fees, IRS per- speeding up the release of liens for tax- when Treasury determines it is feasible, by sonnel costs, travel costs related to payers who have paid. Modernizing our the affected property. local filing problems, and the cost of tax lien filing system makes sense in Subsection (d)(2) would require Treasury to lost taxes whenever the IRS makes an every way. I urge my colleagues to join issue regulations or other guidance for the maintenance and use of the registry, and to error or a tax lien filing is misplaced or Senator COLEMAN and myself in enact- secure the registry and prevent data tam- delayed. Filing fees, for example, vary ing this bill into law this year. pering. Prior to the implementation of the widely from state to state, but typi- I ask unanimous consent to print in registry, the Treasury Secretary would be cally cost at least $10 per filing, and in the RECORD following these remarks a required to review the information currently some States cost as much as $150. If a section-by-section analysis of the bill. provided in public tax lien filings to deter- taxpayer has real estate in multiple ju- There being no objection, the sum- mine whether any of that information should risdictions, those costs multiply. Per- mary was ordered to be printed in the be excluded or protected from public viewing in the National Registry. sonnel costs include the IRS service RECORD, as follows: Subsection (e) would establish a transition center staff that is currently charged The Tax Lien Simplification Act intro- with filing tax liens nationwide and rule for the move from the existing paper- duced by Senators Levin and Coleman con- based tax lien filing system to the National complying with the myriad filing rules tains the following provisions. Registry. It would authorize the Treasury in effect in the 4,100 recording offices SECTION 1 Secretary to issue regulations allowing for across the country. Additional antici- The short title of the bill is the ‘‘Tax Lien the continued filing of notices in state and pated savings would come from reduced Simplification Act.’’ local offices for ‘‘an appropriate period to mailing and travel costs. SECTION 2 permit an orderly transition’’ to the Na- Electronic filing would not only save tional Registry. Section 2 contains the findings and purpose money, it would improve taxpayer of the bill. It finds that the current federal Subsection (f) would require Treasury to service. Taxpayers who are the subject tax lien filing system is inefficient, burden- make the National Registry operational as of a tax lien filing, for example, would some, and expensive, and that current tech- of January 1, 2009, and make the bill applica- benefit from a centralized registry in nology permits the creation of an electronic ble to tax lien notices filed after December 31, 2008. several ways. First, taxpayers would be system that would be more efficient, more timely, less burdensome, and less expensive. able to review their liens as soon as By Mr. DODD (for himself, Mr. they are filed online, without having to It states that the purpose of the bill is to COCHRAN, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. make a physical trip to one or more simplify and modernize the tax lien filing process, to improve public access to tax lien STEVENS, Mr. BINGAMAN, Mr. local recording offices. Second, tax- information, and to save taxpayer dollars by KERRY, and Mr. ROCKEFELLER): payers would have an easy way to look replacing the current decentralized system S. 1128. A bill to amend the National up their liens on multiple occasions, of local tax lien filings with a centralized, and Community Service Act of 1990 to identify any problems, and correct any nationwide, Internet accessible, and fully establish a Summer of Service State errors. Third, once the underlying tax searchable tax lien filing system. grant program, a Summer of Service liability was resolved, the IRS would SECTION 3 national direct grant program, and re- be required to release the tax lien in 10 Section 3 contains the operative provisions lated national activities, and for other days, instead of the 30 days allowed of the bill. purposes; to the Committee on Health, under current law. The longer 30-day Subsection (a) would amend section 6323(f) Education, Labor, and Pensions. period is necessitated by the current of title 26 by eliminating the provisions in complexities associated with filing a current law directing tax liens to be filed in Mr. DODD. Mr. President, I rise state and local recording offices, and by au- paper lien in one or more local offices, today to introduce, along with Sen- thorizing the filing of federal tax lien notices ators COCHRAN, KENNEDY, STEVENS, complexities that would be eliminated in a national tax lien registry to be estab- by the establishment of a centralized, BINGAMAN, KERRY and ROCKEFELLER lished under a new subsection 6323(k). It the Summer of Service Act of 2007. electronic registry. would deem such notices, and any related Creditors who need to research Fed- certificate of release, discharge, subordina- This bill offers middle school students eral tax liens would also benefit from a tion, or nonattachment of a lien, to be effec- the chance to spend a summer in serv- centralized, electronic registry. Lend- tive for purpose of determining the relative ice to their communities as they tran- ers, security holders and others, for ex- priority of a federal tax lien. It would direct sition into high school. ample, would be able to use a sim- the Secretary of the Treasury to prescribe The Summer of Service Act would the form and content of the tax lien notices plified search process that could take create a competitive grant program to be filed on the registry. Filings of tax lien that would enable States and localities place online and would not require notices and related documents would become physical trips to multiple locations. effective from the date and time of recording to offer middle school students an op- Simplifying the search process would in the national tax lien registry, just as they portunity to participate in a struc- also provide greater certainty that all are now from the date and time of a local fil- tured community service program over tax liens were found. The ability to re- ing. the summer months. It would employ search Federal tax liens remotely and Subsection (b) would provide that if an ex- service-learning to teach civic partici- instantaneously should be of particular isting tax lien notice must be re-filed, then pation skills, help young people see the re-filing should be made in the national benefit to larger lenders and to credi- themselves as resources to their com- tax lien registry. munities, expand educational opportu- tors of taxpayers with widely distrib- Subsection (c) would require certificates of uted assets. release, discharge, subordination, and non- nities and discourage ‘‘summer aca- Federal tax liens are not a topic that attachment of a tax lien to be filed in the na- demic slide.’’ Providing tangible bene- normally excites the public’s interest. tional tax lien registry. It would also reduce fits to their communities, Summer of Sound tax administration, however, re- from 30 days to 10 days the time allotted for Service projects would direct grantees quires attention to administrative as the release of a tax lien after the underlying to work on unmet human, educational, well as enforcement concerns. Federal tax liability has been resolved. It would environmental and public safety needs law is currently impeding development make various conforming amendments in and encourage all youth, regardless of the provisions related to federal tax liens. age, income, or disability, to engage in of a more efficient, cost effective tax Subsection (d)(1) would amend section 6323 lien filing system. Amending the law as of title 26 by establishing a National Reg- community service. The program indicated in the Tax Lien Simplifica- istry of federal tax liens and related docu- would also grant participants with an tion Act to streamline the tax lien fil- ments. It would require this National Reg- educational award of up to $500 which ing system, moving it from a paper- istry to be established and maintained by can later be used to pay for college. based to an electronic-based system, the Secretary of the Treasury, and made ac- Volunteerism not only brings support would not only advance the more effi- cessible to and searchable by the public and services to communities in need, it cient, cost-effective tax system we all through the Internet at no cost. It would re- also provides significant benefits to the quire the registry to identify the taxpayer to want, it would also save half a billion whom the tax lien applies and reflect the students who participate. When young dollars in taxpayer money. At the same date and time the notice of lien was filed. It people participate in service activities time, it would make the system work would require the registry to be searchable they feel better able to control their better for individual taxpayers by re- by, at a minimum, taxpayer name and ad- lives in a positive way, avoiding risk

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.022 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4607 behaviors, strengthening their commu- (b) PURPOSE.—The purposes of this Act are in the National Service Trust, as described nity connections and become more en- to— in paragraph (2)(B), an additional amount gaged in their studies. When service is (1) offer youth the chance to spend a sum- equal to the amount described in subpara- tied to what students are learning in mer in service to their communities as a rite graph (A) (to be used for educational of passage before high school; awards); and school, they often make gains on (2) teach civic participation skills to youth achievement tests, complete their ‘‘(C) an amount sufficient to provide for and help youth see themselves as resources the reservation for State-level activities de- homework more often, and increase and leaders for their communities; scribed in subsection (d). their grade point average. Students (3) expand educational opportunities and who engage in service learning also im- discourage ‘‘summer slide’’ by engaging ‘‘(b) STATE APPLICATION.—To be eligible to prove their communication skills, gain youth in summer service-learning opportuni- receive a grant under this section, a State increased awareness of career possibilities; shall submit an application to the Chief Ex- ties, and develop more positive work- (4) encourage youth, regardless of age, in- ecutive Officer at such time, in such manner, place attitudes, setting the foundation come, or disability, to engage in community and containing such information as the Chief for their place as America’s future service; Executive Officer may require, including in- (5) provide tangible benefits to the commu- formation that— leaders. Studies also show that stu- nities in which Summer of Service programs ‘‘(1) designates the State Commission as dents who participate in community are performed; and the agency responsible for the administra- service are more likely to graduate (6) enhance the social-emotional develop- high school and demonstrate interest ment of youth of all backgrounds. tion and supervision of the community servin going to college. SEC. 3. SUMMER OF SERVICE PROGRAMS. ice program carried out under this part in We often hear today of the tremen- Title I of the National and Community the State; dous pressures our young people face at Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12511 et seq.) is ‘‘(2) describes how the State Commission home, in school and in the afterschool amended— will use funds received under this part, in- hours. Summer of Service provides (1) by redesignating subtitles F, G, H, and cluding funds reserved for State-level activi- young people with the chance to be a I as subtitles G, H, I, and J, respectively; ties under subsection (d); (2) by redesignating sections 160 through positive change in their communities. ‘‘(3) describes the procedures and criteria 166 as sections 159A through 159G, respec- the State Commission will use for reviewing For this reason, I urge my colleagues tively; and to join me in supporting the Summer applications and awarding subgrants on a (3) by inserting after subtitle E the fol- competitive basis under section 162A to eligi- of Service Act of 2007. I ask unanimous lowing: consent that the text of the bill be ble entities for projects, including how the ‘‘Subtitle F—Summer of Service Programs State Commission will give priority to an printed in the RECORD. ‘‘SEC. 161. DEFINITIONS. entity that— There being no objection, the text of ‘‘In this subtitle: ‘‘(A) offers a quality plan for or has an es- the bill was ordered to be printed in ‘‘(1) EDUCATIONAL AWARD.—The term ‘edu- tablished track record of carrying out the the RECORD, as follows: cational award’ means an award disbursed activities described in the entity’s applica- S. 1128 under section 162B(d) or 163B(d). tion; Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ‘‘(2) ELIGIBLE ENTITY.—The term ‘eligible ‘‘(B) has a leadership position in the com- resentatives of the United States of America in entity’ means a public or private nonprofit Congress assembled, organization, an institution of higher edu- munity from which the youth participating SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. cation, a local educational agency, a public in the project described in the application This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Summer of elementary school or public secondary will be drawn; Service Act of 2007’’. school, or a consortium of 2 or more of the ‘‘(C) proposes a project that focuses on SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. entities described in this paragraph. service by the participants during the transi- (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds the fol- ‘‘(3) ELIGIBLE YOUTH.—The term ‘eligible tion year before high school; lowing: youth’ means a youth who will be enrolled in ‘‘(D) plans to ensure that at least 50 per- (1) Throughout the United States, there the sixth, seventh, eighth, or ninth grade at cent of the participants are low-income eligi- are pressing unmet human, educational, en- the end of the summer for which the youth ble youth; would participate in community service vironmental and public safety needs. ‘‘(E) proposes a project that encourages or (2) Americans desire to affirm common re- under this subtitle. enables youth to continue participating in sponsibilities and shared values, and join to- ‘‘PART I—SUMMER OF SERVICE STATE community service throughout the school gether in positive experiences, that tran- GRANT PROGRAM year; scend race, religion, gender, age, disability, ‘‘SEC. 162. GRANTS TO STATES. ‘‘(F) plans to involve the participants in region, income, and education. ‘‘(a) GRANTS.— (3) Americans of all ages can improve their ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Chief Executive Offi- the design and operation of the project, in- communities and become better citizens cer shall award grants on a competitive basis cluding involving the participants in con- through service to their communities. to States, to enable the State Commissions— ducting a needs-based assessment of commu- (4) When youth participate in service ac- ‘‘(A) to carry out State-level activities nity needs; tivities and see that they are able to improve under subsection (d); and ‘‘(G) proposes a project that involves youth the lives of others, the youth feel better able ‘‘(B) to award subgrants on a competitive of different ages, races, sexes, ethnic groups, to control their own lives in a positive way, basis under section 162A to eligible entities religions, disability categories, or economic avoiding risky behaviors, strengthening to pay for the Federal share of the cost of backgrounds serving together; and their community connections, and becoming carrying out community service projects. ‘‘(H) proposes a project that provides high more engaged in their own education. ‘‘(2) FUNDS FOR EDUCATIONAL AWARDS.—The quality service-learning experiences; (5) When youth service is tied to learning Chief Executive Officer shall decide whether ‘‘(4) describes the steps the State Commis- objectives, that service is shown to decrease funds appropriated to carry out this part and sion will take, including the provision of on- alienation and behavior problems, and in- available for educational awards (referred to going technical assistance described in sub- crease knowledge of community needs, com- in this part as ‘educational award funds’) section (d)(2) and training, to ensure that mitment to an ethic of service, and under- shall be— projects funded under section 162A will im- standing of politics and morality. ‘‘(A) included in the funds for such grants plement effective strategies; and (6) When service is tied to what students to States and subgrants to eligible entities; ‘‘(5) describes how the State Commission are learning in school, the students make or will evaluate the projects, which shall in- gains on achievement tests, complete their ‘‘(B) reserved by the Chief Executive Offi- homework more often, and increase their cer, deposited in the National Service Trust clude, at a minimum— grade point averages. for educational awards, and disbursed ac- ‘‘(A) a description of the objectives and (7) Students who engage in service-learning cording to paragraphs (1) and (3) of section benchmarks that will be used to evaluate the improve their communication skills, in- 162B(d). projects; and crease their awareness of career possibilities, ‘‘(3) PERIODS OF GRANTS.—The Chief Execu- ‘‘(B) a description of how the State Com- have a deeper understanding of social and tive Officer shall award the grants for peri- mission will disseminate the results of the economic issues that face the United States, ods of 3 years. evaluations, as described in subsection and develop more positive workplace atti- ‘‘(4) AMOUNTS OF GRANTS.—The Chief Exec- (d)(4)(C). tudes, preparing them to take their places as utive Officer shall award such a grant to a ‘‘(c) APPLICANT REVIEW.— future leaders of the United States. State for a program in a sum equal to— ‘‘(1) SELECTION CRITERIA.—The Chief Execu- (8) In a national poll, more than 80 percent ‘‘(A) the amount obtained by multiplying tive Officer shall evaluate applications for of parents said that their child would benefit $500 and the number of youth who will par- grants under this section based on the qual- from an after school program that offered ticipate in the program (to be used for pro- ity, innovation, replicability, and sustain- community service and 95 percent of teens gram expenses); ability of the State programs proposed by agreed that is important to volunteer time ‘‘(B) unless the Chief Executive Officer de- to community efforts. cides to deposit funds for educational awards the applicants.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.046 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4608 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007

‘‘(2) REVIEW PANELS.—The Chief Executive ‘‘(A) engage a substantial portion of the modifications for students who are individ- Officer shall employ the review panels estab- youth in the designated community; uals with disabilities and students with lim- lished under section 165A in reviewing the ‘‘(B) engage a variety of entities and indi- ited English proficiency; applications. viduals, such as youth organizations, ele- ‘‘(C) forming local partnerships to develop ‘‘(3) NOTIFICATION OF APPLICANTS.—If the mentary schools or secondary schools, elect- and offer a variety of service-learning pro- Chief Executive Officer rejects an applica- ed officials, organizations offering summer grams for local youth participating in the tion submitted under this section, the Chief camps, civic groups, nonprofit organizations, project; Executive Officer shall promptly notify the and other entities within the designated ‘‘(D) establishing benchmarks, conducting applicant of the reasons for the rejection of community to offer a variety of summer evaluations, and making evaluation results the application. service opportunities as part of the project; available, as described in subparagraphs (B) ‘‘(4) RESUBMISSION AND RECONSIDERATION.— ‘‘(C) ensure that the youth participating in and (C) of section 162A(b)(3); The Chief Executive Officer shall provide an the project engage in service-learning; ‘‘(E) conducting outreach and dissemina- applicant notified of rejection with a reason- ‘‘(D) engage as volunteers in the project tion of program-related information to enable opportunity to revise and resubmit the business, civic, or community organizations sure the broadest possible involvement of application. At the request of the applicant, or individuals, which may include older indi- local eligible youth and community partners the Chief Executive Officer shall provide viduals, volunteers in the National Senior in the project; technical assistance to the applicant as part Volunteer Corps established under title II of ‘‘(F) conducting ceremonies as described in of the resubmission process. The Chief Exec- the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 section 162A(b)(2)(J); utive Officer shall promptly reconsider an (42 U.S.C. 5000 et seq.), participants in the ‘‘(G) carrying out basic implementation of application resubmitted under this para- school-based and community-based service- the community service project; and graph. learning programs carried out under parts I ‘‘(H) carrying out planning activities, dur- ‘‘(d) STATE-LEVEL ACTIVITIES.—A State and II of subtitle B, participants in the ing an initial 6 to 9 months of the subgrant that receives a grant under this section may AmeriCorps program carried out under sub- period. reserve up to 5 percent of the grant funds for title C, or students enrolled in secondary ‘‘(3) NON-FEDERAL SHARE.—An eligible enti- State-level activities, which may include— schools or institutions of higher education; ty that receives a subgrant under section ‘‘(1) hiring staff to administer the program ‘‘(E) ensure that youth participating in the 162A shall provide the non-Federal share of carried out under this part in the State; project provide at least 100 hours of commu- the costs described in section 162A(a)(1) from ‘‘(2) providing technical assistance, includ- nity service for the project; private or public sources other than the ing technical assistance concerning the pro- ‘‘(F) recruit eligible youth to participate subgrant funds. The sources may include fees fessional development and training of per- in the project; charged to the parents of the youth partici- sonnel, to eligible entities that receive sub- ‘‘(G) recruit service sponsors for commu- pating in the community service project in- grants under section 162A; nity service activities carried out through volved and determined on a sliding scale ‘‘(3) conducting outreach and dissemina- the project, if the eligible entity intends to based on income. tion of program-related information to en- ‘‘(b) SERVICE PROJECTS.— enter into an arrangement with such spon- sure the broadest possible involvement of el- ‘‘(1) ELIGIBLE SERVICE CATEGORIES.—The el- sors to provide project placements for the igible entities and local eligible youth in the igible entity may use the subgrant funds to youth; program carried out under this part; and carry out a community service project to ‘‘(H) promote leadership development and ‘‘(4)(A) conducting an evaluation of the meet unmet human, educational, environ- build an ethic of civic responsibility among projects carried out by eligible entities mental, or public safety needs. the youth; under this part; ‘‘(2) INELIGIBLE SERVICE CATEGORIES.—The ‘‘(I) provide team-oriented, adult-super- ‘‘(B) using the results of the evaluation to eligible entity may not use the subgrant vised experiences through the project; collect and compile information on best funds to carry out a service project in which ‘‘(J) conduct opening and closing cere- practices and models for such projects; and participants perform service described in monies honoring participants in the project; ‘‘(C) disseminating widely the results of section 132(a). ‘‘(K) involve youth who are participating the evaluation. ‘‘(c) PERIOD OF SERVICE PROJECTS.—The eli- in the project in the design and planning of ‘‘SEC. 162A. SUBGRANTS TO ELIGIBLE ENTITIES. gible entity— the project; and ‘‘(a) SUBGRANTS.— ‘‘(1) shall carry out the community service ‘‘(L) provide training, which may include ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—A State that receives a project funded under section 162A during a life skills, financial education, and employ- grant under section 162 shall use the grant period, the majority of which occurs in the ment training, in addition to training con- funds to award subgrants on a competitive months of June, July, and August; and cerning the specific community service to be basis to eligible entities to pay for the Fed- ‘‘(2) may carry out the project in conjunc- provided through the project, for the youth; eral share of the cost of carrying out com- tion with a related after school or in-school and munity service projects. service-learning project operated during the ‘‘(3)(A) specifies project outcome objectives ‘‘(2) PERIODS OF SUBGRANTS.—The State remaining months of the year. relating to youth development or education shall award the subgrants for periods of 3 ‘‘(d) EDUCATIONAL AWARD.— achievement, community strengthening, and years. ‘‘(1) ELIGIBILITY.—Each eligible youth who community improvement; ‘‘(3) AMOUNTS OF SUBGRANTS.—The State provides at least 100 hours of community ‘‘(B) describes how the eligible entity will shall award such a subgrant to an eligible service for a project carried out under this establish annual benchmarks for the objec- entity for a project in a sum equal to— part shall be eligible to receive an edu- tives, and annually conduct an evaluation to ‘‘(A) the amount obtained by multiplying cational award of not more than $500. An eli- measure progress toward the benchmarks; $500 and the number of youth who will par- gible youth may participate in more than 1 and ticipate in the project (to be used for project such project but shall not receive in excess ‘‘(C) provides an assurance that the eligible expenses); and of $1,000 in total for such participation. entity will annually make the results of such ‘‘(B) unless the Chief Executive Officer de- ‘‘(2) DISBURSEMENTS BY ELIGIBLE ENTITY.— evaluation available to the State. cides to deposit funds for educational awards If the Chief Executive Officer decides under ‘‘(c) CONTINUED ELIGIBILITY.—To be eligible in the National Service Trust, as described section 162(a)(2)(A) to include educational to receive funds under this section for a sec- in section 162(a)(2)(B), an additional amount award funds in subgrants under this part, the ond or subsequent year of a subgrant period, equal to the amount described in subpara- eligible entity carrying out the project an entity shall demonstrate that the entity graph (A) (to be used for educational shall— has met the annual benchmarks for the ob- awards). ‘‘(A) disburse an educational award de- jectives described in subsection (b)(3). ‘‘(b) APPLICATIONS.—To be eligible to re- scribed in paragraph (1) in accordance with ceive a subgrant under this section for a ‘‘(d) SELECTION OF SUBGRANT RECIPIENTS.— regulations issued by the Chief Executive Of- project, an entity shall submit an applica- In awarding subgrants under this section, ficer, which— tion to the State Commission at such time, the State shall ensure that projects are fund- ‘‘(i) may permit disbursal of the award to in such manner, and containing such infor- ed in a variety of geographic areas, including the parents of the youth that have estab- mation as the State Commission may re- urban and rural areas. lished a qualified tuition program account quire, including information that— ‘‘SEC. 162B. SUMMER OF SERVICE PROJECTS. under section 529 of the Internal Revenue ‘‘(1) designates the community in which ‘‘(a) USE OF FUNDS.— Code of 1986, for deposit into the account; the entity will carry out the project, which ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—An eligible entity that but community may be the service area of an el- receives a subgrant under section 162A shall ‘‘(ii) shall not otherwise permit disbursal ementary school or secondary school, a use the subgrant funds to carry out a com- of the award to the parents; or school district, a city, town, village, or other munity service project. ‘‘(B) enter into a contract with a private locality, a county, the area in which a public ‘‘(2) SPECIFIC USES.—The eligible entity sector organization to hold the educational housing project is located, a neighborhood, may use the subgrant funds to pay for— award funds and disburse the educational or another geographically or politically des- ‘‘(A) hiring staff to administer the project; award as described in subparagraph (A). ignated area; ‘‘(B) developing or acquiring service-learn- ‘‘(3) DISBURSEMENTS BY CHIEF EXECUTIVE ‘‘(2) describes the manner in which the ening curricula for the project, to be integrated OFFICER.—If the Chief Executive Officer de- tity will— into academic programs, including making cides under section 162(a)(2)(B) to reserve

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.047 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4609

educational award funds, the Chief Executive ‘‘(B) unless the Chief Executive Officer de- ‘‘(2) REVIEW PANELS.—The Chief Executive Officer shall disburse the educational award cides to deposit funds for educational awards Officer shall employ the review panels estab- as described in paragraph (2)(A). in the National Service Trust, as described lished under section 165A in reviewing the ‘‘SEC. 162C. SUPPLEMENTAL GRANTS. in paragraph (2)(B), an additional amount applications. ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Chief Executive Of- equal to the amount described in subpara- ‘‘(3) NOTIFICATION OF APPLICANTS.—If the ficer may award a supplemental grant to an graph (A) (to be used for educational Chief Executive Officer rejects an applica- eligible entity that demonstrates the mat- awards); and tion submitted under this section, the Chief ters described in subsection (b), to assist the ‘‘(C) an amount sufficient to provide for Executive Officer shall promptly notify the entity in carrying out a community service the reservation for quality assurance activi- applicant of the reasons for the rejection of project in accordance with the requirements ties described in subsection (d). the application. of this part, as determined appropriate by ‘‘(b) NATIONAL DIRECT APPLICATIONS.—To ‘‘(4) RESUBMISSION AND RECONSIDERATION.— the Chief Executive Officer. be eligible to receive a grant under this sec- The Chief Executive Officer shall provide an ‘‘(b) APPLICATION.—To be eligible to re- tion for a community service program, an or- applicant notified of rejection with a reason- ceive a supplemental grant under subsection ganization shall submit an application to the able opportunity to revise and resubmit the (a), an entity shall submit an application to Chief Executive Officer at such time, in such application. At the request of the applicant, the Chief Executive Officer, at such time, in manner, and containing such information as the Chief Executive Officer shall provide such manner, and containing such informa- the Chief Executive Officer may require, in- technical assistance to the applicant as part tion as the Chief Executive Officer may re- cluding information that— of the resubmission process. The Chief Exec- quire, including information dem- ‘‘(1) describes how the organization will utive Officer shall promptly reconsider an onstrating— use funds received under this part, including application resubmitted under this para- ‘‘(1) that the entity received a subgrant funds reserved for quality assurance activi- graph. under section 162A for a community service ties under subsection (d); ‘‘(d) QUALITY ASSURANCE ACTIVITIES.—An project; and ‘‘(2)(A) describes the procedures and cri- organization that receives a grant under this ‘‘(2) that the entity would be unable to teria the organization will use for reviewing section may reserve up to 5 percent of the carry out the project without substantial applications and awarding subgrants on a grant funds for quality assurance activities, hardship unless the entity received a supple- competitive basis under section 163A to local which may include— mental grant under subsection (a). providers for projects, including how the or- ‘‘(1) hiring staff to administer the program ‘‘(c) AMOUNT OF GRANT.—The Chief Execu- ganization will give priority to a provider carried out under this part by the organiza- tive Officer shall award such a grant to an that, with respect to each project described tion; eligible entity for the project in the amount in the application— ‘‘(2) providing technical assistance, includ- obtained by multiplying $250 and the number ‘‘(i) offers a quality plan for or has an es- ing technical assistance concerning the proof youth who will participate in the project tablished track record of carrying out the fessional development and training of per- (to be used for project expenses). activities described in the provider’s applica- sonnel, to local providers that receive sub- ‘‘SEC. 162D. INDIAN TRIBES AND TERRITORIES. tion; grants under section 163A; and ‘‘From the funds made available to carry ‘‘(ii) has a leadership position in the com- ‘‘(3)(A) conducting an evaluation of the out this part under section 165(b)(2)(A) for munity from which the youth participating projects carried out by local providers of the any fiscal year, the Chief Executive Officer in the project will be drawn; organization under this part; shall reserve an amount of not more than 3 ‘‘(iii) proposes a project that focuses on ‘‘(B) using the results of the evaluation to percent for payments to Indian tribes, the service by the participants during the transi- collect and compile information on best United States Virgin Islands, Guam, Amer- tion year before high school; practices and models for such projects; and ican Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the ‘‘(iv) plans to ensure that at least 50 per- ‘‘(C) disseminating widely the results of Northern Mariana Islands, to be used in ac- cent of the participants are low-income eligi- the evaluation. cordance with the requirements of this part, ble youth; ‘‘SEC. 163A. SUBGRANTS TO LOCAL PROVIDERS. as determined appropriate by the Chief Exec- ‘‘(v) proposes a project that encourages or ‘‘(a) SUBGRANTS.— utive Officer. enables youth to continue participating in ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—An organization that re- ‘‘PART II—SUMMER OF SERVICE community service throughout the school ceives a grant under section 163 may use the NATIONAL DIRECT GRANT PROGRAM year; grant funds to award subgrants on a com- ‘‘SEC. 163. NATIONAL DIRECT GRANTS. ‘‘(vi) plans to involve the participants in petitive basis to local providers to pay for ‘‘(a) GRANTS.— the design and operation of the project, in- the Federal share of the cost of carrying out ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Chief Executive Offi- cluding involving the participants in con- community service projects. cer shall award grants on a competitive basis ducting a needs-based assessment of commu- ‘‘(2) PERIODS OF SUBGRANTS.—The organiza- to public or private organizations (referred nity needs; tion shall award the subgrants for periods of to individually in this part as an ‘organiza- ‘‘(vii) proposes a project that involves 3 years. tion’)— youth of different ages, races, sexes, ethnic ‘‘(3) AMOUNTS OF SUBGRANTS.—The organi- ‘‘(A) to carry out quality assurance activi- groups, religions, disability categories, or zation shall award such a subgrant to a local ties under subsection (d); and economic backgrounds serving together; and provider for a project in a sum equal to— ‘‘(B) to pay for the Federal share of the ‘‘(viii) proposes a project that provides ‘‘(A) the amount obtained by multiplying cost of carrying out a community service high quality service-learning experiences; or $500 and the number of youth who will par- program— ‘‘(B) if the organization will carry out the ticipate in the project (to be used for project ‘‘(i) in a State where the State Commission community service program directly, dem- expenses); and does not apply for funding under part I; or onstrates that the organization meets the re- ‘‘(B) unless the Chief Executive Officer de- ‘‘(ii) in multiple States. quirements of clauses (i) through (viii) of cides to deposit funds for educational awards ‘‘(2) FUNDS FOR EDUCATIONAL AWARDS.—The subparagraph (A) with respect to each in the National Service Trust, as described Chief Executive Officer shall decide whether project described in the application; in section 163(a)(2)(B), an additional amount funds appropriated to carry out this part and ‘‘(3) describes the steps the organization equal to the amount described in subpara- available for educational awards (referred to will take, including the provision of ongoing graph (A) (to be used for educational in this part as ‘educational award funds’) technical assistance described in subsection awards). shall be— (d)(2)) and training, to ensure that projects ‘‘(b) LOCAL PROVIDER APPLICATION.—To be ‘‘(A) included in the funds for such grants funded under this part will implement effec- eligible to receive a subgrant under this sec- to organizations and any subgrants to local tive strategies; and tion, a local provider shall submit an appli- providers; or ‘‘(4) describes how the organization will cation to the organization at such time, in ‘‘(B) reserved by the Chief Executive Offi- evaluate the projects funded under this part, such manner, and containing such informa- cer, deposited in the National Service Trust which shall include, at a minimum— tion as the organization may require, includ- for educational awards, and disbursed ac- ‘‘(A) a description of the objectives and ing information that— cording to paragraphs (1) and (3) of section benchmarks that will be used to evaluate the ‘‘(1) designates the communities in which 163B(d). projects; and the local provider will carry out projects ‘‘(3) PERIODS OF GRANTS.—The Chief Execu- ‘‘(B) a description of how the organization under the subgrant, each of which commu- tive Officer shall award the grants for peri- will disseminate widely the results of the nities may be the service area of an elemen- ods of 3 years. evaluations, as described in subsection tary school or secondary school, a school dis- ‘‘(4) AMOUNTS OF GRANTS.—The Chief Exec- (d)(3)(C). trict, a city, town, village, or other locality, utive Officer shall award such a grant to an ‘‘(c) APPLICANT REVIEW.— a county, the area in which a public housing organization for a program in a sum equal ‘‘(1) SELECTION CRITERIA.—The Chief Execu- project is located, a neighborhood, or an- to— tive Officer shall evaluate applications for other geographically or politically des- ‘‘(A) the amount obtained by multiplying grants under this section based on the qual- ignated area; $500 and the number of youth who will parity, innovation, replicability, and sustain- ‘‘(2) for each project described in such ap- ticipate in the program (to be used for pro- ability of the programs proposed by the application, describes the manner in which the gram expenses); plicants. local provider will—

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.047 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4610 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007

‘‘(A) engage a substantial portion of the ‘‘(B) developing or acquiring service-learn- ‘‘(3) DISBURSEMENTS BY CHIEF EXECUTIVE youth in the designated community in- ing curricula for the project, to be integrated OFFICER.—If the Chief Executive Officer de- volved; into academic programs, including making cides under section 163(a)(2)(B) to reserve ‘‘(B) engage a variety of entities and indi- modifications for students who are individ- educational award funds, the Chief Executive viduals, such as youth organizations, ele- uals with disabilities and students with lim- Officer shall disburse the educational award mentary schools or secondary schools, elect- ited English proficiency; as described in paragraph (2)(A). ed officials, organizations offering summer ‘‘(C) forming local partnerships to develop ‘‘(e) APPLICATION OF SECTION.—References camps, civic groups, nonprofit organizations, and offer a variety of service-learning pro- in this section to local providers, with re- and other entities within the designated grams for local youth participating in the spect to the use of subgrant funds received community to offer a variety of summer project; under section 163A, apply equally to organi- service opportunities as part of the project; ‘‘(D) establishing benchmarks, conducting zations that carry out community service ‘‘(C) ensure that the youth participating in evaluations, and making evaluation results projects directly, with respect to the use of the project engage in service-learning; available, as described in subparagraphs (B) grant funds received under section 163. ‘‘(D) engage as volunteers in the project and (C) of section 163A(b)(3); ‘‘SEC. 163C. SUPPLEMENTAL GRANTS. business, civic, or community organizations ‘‘(E) conducting outreach and dissemina- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Chief Executive Of- or individuals, which may include older indi- tion of program-related information to en- ficer may award a supplemental grant to a viduals, volunteers in the National Senior sure the broadest possible involvement of local provider that demonstrates the matters Volunteer Corps established under title II of local eligible youth and community partners described in subsection (b), to assist the pro- the Domestic Volunteer Service Act of 1973 in the project; vider in carrying out a community service (42 U.S.C. 5000 et seq.), participants in the ‘‘(F) conducting ceremonies as described in project in accordance with the requirements school-based and community-based service- section 163A(b)(2)(J); of this part, as determined appropriate by learning programs carried out under parts I ‘‘(G) carrying out basic implementation of the Chief Executive Officer. and II of subtitle B, participants in the the community service project; and ‘‘(b) APPLICATION.—To be eligible to re- AmeriCorps program carried out under sub- ‘‘(H) carrying out planning activities, dur- ceive a supplemental grant under subsection title C, or students enrolled in secondary ing an initial 6 to 9 months of the grant pe- (a), a provider shall submit an application to schools or institutions of higher education; riod. the Chief Executive Officer, at such time, in ‘‘(E) ensure that youth participating in the ‘‘(3) NON-FEDERAL SHARE.—A local provider such manner, and containing such informa- project provide at least 100 hours of commu- that receives a subgrant under section 163A tion as the Chief Executive Officer may re- nity service for the project; shall provide the non-Federal share of the quire, including information dem- ‘‘(F) recruit eligible youth to participate cost described in section 163A(a)(1) from pri- onstrating— in the project; vate or public sources other than the ‘‘(1) that the provider received a subgrant ‘‘(G) recruit service sponsors for commu- subgrant funds. The sources may include fees under section 163A for a community service nity service activities carried out through charged to the parents of the youth partici- project; and the project, if the local provider intends to pating in the community service project in- ‘‘(2) that the provider would be unable to enter into an arrangement with such spon- volved and determined on a sliding scale carry out the project without substantial sors to provide project placements for the based on income. hardship unless the provider received a sup- ‘‘(b) SERVICE PROJECTS.— youth; plemental grant under subsection (a). ‘‘(1) ELIGIBLE SERVICE CATEGORIES.—The ‘‘(H) promote leadership development and ‘‘(c) AMOUNT OF GRANT.—The Chief Execu- local provider may use the subgrant funds to build an ethic of civic responsibility among tive Officer shall award such a grant to a carry out a community service project to the youth; local provider for the project in the amount meet unmet human, educational, environ- ‘‘(I) provide team-oriented, adult-super- obtained by multiplying $250 and the number mental, or public safety needs. vised experiences through the project; of youth who will participate in the project ‘‘(2) INELIGIBLE SERVICE CATEGORIES.—The ‘‘(J) conduct opening and closing cere- (to be used for project expenses). local provider may not use the subgrant monies honoring participants in the project; funds to carry out a service project in which ‘‘PART III—SUMMER OF SERVICE ‘‘(K) involve youth who are participating participants perform service described in NATIONAL ACTIVITIES in the project in the design and planning of section 132(a). ‘‘SEC. 164. NATIONAL ACTIVITIES. the project; and ‘‘(c) PERIOD OF SERVICE PROJECTS.—The ‘‘(a) NATIONAL QUALITY AND OUTREACH AC- ‘‘(L) provide training, which may include local provider— TIVITIES.—The Chief Executive Officer may life skills, financial education, and employ- ‘‘(1) shall carry out the community service use funds reserved under section 165(b)(1), ei- ment training, in addition to training con- project funded under section 163A during a ther directly or through grants and concerning the specific community service to be period, the majority of which occurs in the tracts, to— provided through the project, for the youth; months of June, July, and August; and ‘‘(1) provide technical assistance and train- and ‘‘(2) may carry out the project in conjunc- ing to recipients of grants and subgrants ‘‘(3)(A) specifies project outcome objectives tion with a related after school or in-school under parts I and II; relating to youth development or education service-learning project operated during the ‘‘(2) conduct outreach and dissemination of achievement, community strengthening, and remaining months of the year. program-related information to ensure the community improvement; ‘‘(d) EDUCATIONAL AWARD.— broadest possible involvement of States, eli- ‘‘(B) describes how the local provider will ‘‘(1) ELIGIBILITY.—Each eligible youth who gible entities, organizations, local providers, establish annual benchmarks for the objec- provides at least 100 hours of community and eligible youth in programs carried out tives, and annually conduct an evaluation to service for a project carried out under this under parts I and II; and measure progress toward the benchmarks; part shall be eligible to receive an edu- ‘‘(3) to carry out other activities designed and cational award of not more than $500. An eli- to improve the quality of programs carried ‘‘(C) provides an assurance that the local gible youth may participate in more than 1 out under parts I and II. provider will annually make the results of such project but shall not receive in excess ‘‘(b) NATIONAL EVALUATION.— such evaluation available to the organiza- of $1,000 in total for such participation. ‘‘(1) RESERVATION.—For each fiscal year, tion. ‘‘(2) DISBURSEMENTS BY LOCAL PROVIDER.—If the Chief Executive Officer shall reserve not ‘‘(c) CONTINUED ELIGIBILITY.—To be eligible the Chief Executive Officer decides under more than the greater of $500,000, or 1 per- to receive funds under this section for a sec- section 163(a)(2)(A) to include educational cent, of the funds described in subsection (a) ond or subsequent year of a subgrant period, award funds in subgrants under this part, the for the purposes described in paragraph (2). a local provider shall demonstrate that all local provider carrying out the project ‘‘(2) EVALUATION.—The Chief Executive Of- the projects for which the subgrant was shall— ficer shall use the reserved funds— awarded met the annual benchmarks for the ‘‘(A) disburse an educational award de- ‘‘(A) to arrange for an independent evalua- objectives described in subsection (b)(3). scribed in paragraph (1) in accordance with tion of the programs carried out under parts ‘‘(d) SELECTION OF SUBGRANT RECIPIENTS.— regulations issued by the Chief Executive Of- I and II, to be conducted in the second and In awarding subgrants under this section, ficer, which— third years in which the programs are imple- the organization shall ensure that projects ‘‘(i) may permit disbursal of the award to mented; and are funded in a variety of geographic areas, the parents of the youth that have estab- ‘‘(B) using the results of the evaluation, to including urban and rural areas. lished a qualified tuition program account collect and compile information on models ‘‘SEC. 163B. SUMMER OF SERVICE PROJECTS. under section 529 of the Internal Revenue and best practices for such programs; and ‘‘(a) USE OF FUNDS.— Code of 1986, for deposit into the account; ‘‘(C) to disseminate widely the results of ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—A local provider that re- but the evaluation. ceives a subgrant under section 163A shall ‘‘(ii) shall not otherwise permit disbursal ‘‘(3) REPORT.—The Chief Executive Officer use the subgrant funds to carry out a com- of the award to the parents; or shall annually submit to the Committee on munity service project. ‘‘(B) enter into a contract with a private Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of ‘‘(2) SPECIFIC USES.—The local provider sector organization to hold the educational the Senate and the Committee on Education may use the subgrant funds, to pay for— award funds and disburse the educational and the Workforce of the House of Rep- ‘‘(A) hiring staff to administer the project; award as described in subparagraph (A). resentatives, a report concerning the results

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.047 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4611 of the evaluations conducted under para- (4) Section 159B(b)(1)(B) of such Act (as re- beling of greater Portland as the graph (2). Such reports shall also contain in- designated by section 3(2)) is amended by ‘‘sprawl capital of the Northeast.’’ formation on models of best practices and striking ‘‘section 162(a)(3)’’ and inserting I am particularly alarmed by the any other findings or recommendations de- ‘‘section 159C(a)(3)’’. amount of working forest and farm (c) RELATIONSHIP TO NATIONAL SERVICE veloped by the Chief Executive Officer based land and open space in southern and on such evaluations. Such reports shall be EDUCATIONAL AWARD PROVISIONS.— made available to the general public. (1) NATIONAL SERVICE TRUST.—Section 145 coastal Maine that has given way to ‘‘PART IV—GENERAL PROVISIONS of the National and Community Service Act strip malls and cul-de-sacs. Once these forests, farms, and meadows are lost to ‘‘SEC. 165. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12601) is amended— AND AVAILABILITY. (A) in subsection (a)— development, they are lost forever. ‘‘(a) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— (i) in paragraph (2), by striking ‘‘and’’ at Maine is trying to respond to this There are authorized to be appropriated to the end; challenge. The people of Maine con- carry out this subtitle $100,000,000 for fiscal (ii) in paragraph (3), by striking the period tinue to contribute their time and year 2008 and such sums as may be necessary and inserting ‘‘, other than interest or pro- money to preserve important lands and for each subsequent fiscal year. ceeds described in paragraph (4)(B); and’’; to support our State’s 88 land trusts. It ‘‘(b) AVAILABILITY.—Of the funds appro- and priated under subsection (a) for a fiscal year, (iii) by adding at the end the following: is time for the Federal Government to the Chief Executive Officer— ‘‘(4)(A) any amounts deposited in the Trust help support these State and commu- ‘‘(1) shall reserve not more than 4 percent under subtitle F; and nity-based efforts. to carry out activities under part III (relat- ‘‘(B) the interest on, and proceeds from the For these reasons, I have introduced ing to national activities); and sale or redemption of, any obligations held the Suburban and Community Forestry ‘‘(2) from the remainder of such funds, by the Trust for a program carried out under and Open Space Program Act. This leg- shall make available— subtitle F.’’; and islation, which was drafted with the 2 ‘‘(A) a portion equal to 66 ⁄3 percent of such (B) in subsection (c), by inserting ‘‘(other advice of land owners and conservation funds for programs carried out under part I than any amounts deposited in the Trust (relating to the State grant program), in- groups, establishes a $50 million grant under subtitle F)’’ after ‘‘Amounts in the program within the U.S. Forest Service cluding programs carried out under section Trust’’. 162D; and (2) AVAILABILITY OF AMOUNTS IN NATIONAL to support locally driven land con- 1 ‘‘(B) a portion equal to 33 ⁄3 percent of such SERVICE TRUST.—Section 148(a) of the Na- servation projects that preserve work- funds for programs carried out under part II tional and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 ing forests. Local government and non- (relating to the national direct grant pro- U.S.C. 12604(a)) is amended by inserting profit organizations would compete for gram). ‘‘(other than any amounts deposited in the funds to purchase land or access to ‘‘(c) REALLOCATION.—If the Chief Executive Trust under subtitle F)’’ after ‘‘Amounts in land to protect working landscapes Officer determines that funds from the por- the Trust’’. tion described in subsection (b)(2)(A) will not threatened by development. Projects funded under this initiative be needed to carry out programs under part By Ms. COLLINS: must be targeted at lands located in I for a fiscal year, the Chief Executive Offi- S. 1131. A bill to amend the Coopera- cer shall make the funds available for pro- parts of the country that are threat- tive Forestry Assistance Act of 1978 to grams under part II for that fiscal year. ened by sprawl. In addition, this legis- establish a program to provide assist- ‘‘SEC. 165A. REVIEW PANELS. lation requires that Federal grant ance to States and nonprofit organiza- ‘‘The Chief Executive Officer shall estab- funds be matched dollar-for-dollar by tions to preserve suburban forest land lish panels of experts for the purpose of re- State, local, or private resources. viewing applications submitted under sec- and open space and contain suburban This is a market-driven program that tions 162, 162C, 162D, and 163. sprawl; to the Committee on Agri- ‘‘SEC. 165B. CONSTRUCTION. relies upon market forces rather than culture, Nutrition, and Forestry. government regulations to achieve its ‘‘An individual participating in service in a Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, the program described in this subtitle shall not objectives. Rather than preserving our be considered to be an employee engaged in people of Maine have always been working forests, farmland and open employment for purposes of the Fair Labor faithful stewards of the forest because spaces by zoning or other government Standards Act of 1938 (29 U.S.C. 201 et seq.).’’. we understand its tremendous value to regulation, with this program we will SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS. our economy and to our way of life. provide the resources to allow a land- (a) REDESIGNATION OF SUBTITLES.— From the vast tracts of undeveloped owner who wishes to keep his or her (1) Section 118(a) of the National and Com- land in the north to the small woodlots munity Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. land as a working woodlot to do so. in the south, forest land has helped to My legislation also protects the 12551(a)) is amended by striking ‘‘subtitle H’’ shape the character of our entire State. and inserting ‘‘subtitle I’’. rights of property owners with the in- (2) Section 122(a)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. While our commitment to steward- clusion of a ‘‘willing-seller’’ provision, 12572(a)(2)) is amended by striking ‘‘subtitle ship has preserved the forest for gen- which requires the consent of a land- I’’ and inserting ‘‘subtitle J’’. erations, there is a threat to Maine’s owner if a parcel of land is to partici- (3) Section 193A(f)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C. working landscape that requires a fresh pate in the program. 12651d(f)(1)) is amended by striking ‘‘sub- approach. This threat is suburban The $50 million that would be author- titles C and I’’ and inserting ‘‘subtitles C and sprawl, which has already consumed ized by my bill would help achieve J’’. tens of thousands of acres of forest stewardship objectives: First, this bill (4) Section 501(a)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. land in southern Maine. Sprawl occurs 12681(a)(2)) is amended— would help prevent forest fragmenta- (A) in the paragraph heading, by striking because the economic value of forest or tion and preserve working forests, ‘‘SUBTITLES C, D, AND H’’ and inserting ‘‘SUB- farm land cannot compete with the helping to maintain the supply of tim- TITLES C, D, AND I’’; value of developed land. ber that fuels Maine’s most significant (B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘sub- Sprawl threatens our environment industry. Second, these resources titles C and H’’ and inserting ‘‘subtitles C and our quality of life. It destroys eco- would be a valuable tool for commu- and I’’; and systems, increasing the risk of flooding nities that are struggling to manage (C) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘sub- and other environmental hazards. It growth and prevent sprawl. title H’’ and inserting ‘‘subtitle I’’. burdens the infrastructure of the af- Understanding that land ownership (b) REDESIGNATION OF SECTIONS.— (1) Section 155(d)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. fected communities, increases traffic issues differ in other parts of the Na- 12615(d)(3)) is amended by striking ‘‘section on neighborhood streets, and wastes tion, I have included a geographic limi- 162(a)(3)’’ and inserting ‘‘section 159C(a)(3)’’. taxpayer money. Sprawl causes the un- tation in this bill. This limitation (2) Section 156(d) of such Act (42 U.S.C. necessary fragmentation of open space would exempt any State where the 12616(d)) is amended by striking ‘‘section that reduces the economic viability of Federal Government owns 25 percent or 162(a)(3)’’ and inserting ‘‘section 159C(a)(3)’’. the remaining working forests. more of that State’s land from the Sub- (3) Section 159(c) of such Act (42 U.S.C. In the State of Maine, suburban urban and Community Forestry and 12619(c)) is amended— sprawl has already consumed tens of Open Space Program. With the 25 per- (A) in paragraph (2)(C)(i), by striking ‘‘sec- thousands of acres of forest and farm cent limitation, a figure used in pre- tion 162(a)(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘section 159C(a)(2)’’; and land. The problem is particularly acute vious bills, the twelve States with the (B) in paragraph (3), by striking ‘‘section in southern Maine where an 108 percent highest percentage of federally owned 162(a)(2)(A)’’ and inserting ‘‘section increase in urbanized land over the land would not be eligible to partici- 159C(a)(2)(A)’’. past two decades has resulted in the la- pate in this new program. Those

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.047 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4612 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 States, however, who are struggling And yet, charitable organizations ‘‘(E) SPECIAL RULE FOR INDIAN TRIBES.— most with the loss of working land- that provide hunger relief are unable to ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this scapes would be authorized to receive meet the basic needs of Natives due to paragraph, an Indian tribe (as defined in sec- Federal assistance in their efforts to an oversight in the federal tax code. tion 7871(c)(3)(E)(ii)) shall be treated as an organization eligible to be a donee under combat sprawl. Section 170(e)(3) of the Internal Rev- subparagraph (A) with respect to apparently Third, the bill would help to preserve enue Code allows corporations to take wholesome food (as defined in section 22(b)(2) open space and family farms. Cur- an enhanced tax deduction for dona- of the Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food rently, if the town of Gorham, ME, or tions of food; however, the food must Donation Act (42 U.S.C. 1791(b)(2)) (as in ef- another community trying to cope be distributed to 501(c)(3) nonprofit or- fect on the date of the enactment of this sub- with the effects of sprawl turned to the ganizations, such as food banks. Non- paragraph)) only. Federal Government for assistance, profit organizations cannot then trans- ‘‘(ii) USE OF PROPERTY.—For purposes of none would be found. My bill will fer such donations to tribes. Although subparagraph (A)(i), if the use of the apparently wholesome food donated is related to change that by making the Federal many donations to tribes are tax de- the exercise of an essential governmental Government an active partner in pre- ductible under section 7871 of the Inter- function of the Indian tribal government serving forest and farm land and man- nal Revenue Code, tribes are not (within the meaning of section 7871), such aging sprawl, while leaving decision- among the organizations listed under use shall be treated as related to the purpose making at the State and local level Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Rev- or function constituting the basis for the or- where it belongs. enue Code. To clarify, section 170(e)(3) ganization’s exemption.’’. The Suburban and Community For- does not allow tribes to be eligible re- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made by this section shall apply to taxable estry and Open Space Program Act has cipients of corporate food donations to years beginning after December 31, 2007. had a successful history in the Senate. nonprofit organizations since they are In 2002, this legislation was included in not listed under Section 501(c)(3) as an By Mr. AKAKA (for himself, Mr. the forestry title of the Senate ap- eligible entity. BINGAMAN, and Mr. DURBIN): proved version of the Farm Bill. Unfor- With this legislation, I intend to S. 1133. A bill to provide additional tunately, the forestry title was make a simple correction to the tax protections for recipients of the earned stripped out of the Farm Bill con- code that clearly indicates that tribes income tax credit; to the Committee ference report. And again, in 2003, this are eligible recipients of food donated on Finance. legislation passed the Senate. This under section 170(e)(3) of the Internal Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, today, I time, during consideration of the Revenue Code. This correction is long am reintroducing the Taxpayer Abuse Healthy Forests Restoration Act. Un- overdue and would remedy an egre- Prevention Act. Earned income tax fortunately, this provision was re- gious inequity in the Federal tax code credit (EITC) benefits intended for moved from the Healthy Forests Res- that affects natives nationwide. working families are significantly re- toration Act conference report. This Please allow me to provide a few ex- duced by the use of refund anticipation new Congress and the reauthorization amples of how this legislation could loans (RALs), which typically carry of the Farm Bill provide an excellent foster positive change. In Alaska, ap- three or four digit interest rates. In opportunity to enact this important proximately half of the food donated to 2005, EITC filers accounted for more legislation. the Food Bank of Alaska from corpora- than half of the refund anticipation There is great work being done on tions could go to tribes throughout loans issued despite being only 17 per- the local level to protect working land- Alaska. Much of this food would go to cent of the taxpayer population. EITC scapes for the next generation. By en- villages that are only accessible by air recipients lost an estimated $649 mil- acting the Suburban and Community or water. In South Dakota, roughly 30 lion in loan fees plus application or Forestry and Open Space Act, Congress percent of the food the Community documentation fees in 2005. The EITC can provide an additional avenue of Food Banks of South Dakota distrib- is intended to help working families support for these conservation initia- utes could go to reservations. In North meet their food, clothing, housing, tives, help prevent sprawl, and help Dakota, the amount of food donated to transportation, and education needs. sustain the vitality of natural re- the Great Plains Food Bank could dou- Working families cannot afford to lose source-based industries. ble if this legislation were enacted. The a significant portion of their EITC Montana Food Bank Network projects funds by expensive, short-term, RALs. By Ms. MURKOWSKI: that food donations could increase by The interest rates and fees charged S. 1132. A bill to amend the Internal 16 percent. A food bank based in Albu- on RALs are not justified because of Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Indian querque, NM, estimates that their food the short length of time that these tribes to receive charitable contribu- donations could triple in the first year loans are outstanding and the minimal tions of apparently wholesome food; to alone. risk they present. These loans carry the Committee on Finance. It is imperative that we address this little risk because of the Debt Indi- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I important issue expeditiously. The cator program. rise to introduce a bill that will help health and well-being of low income The Debt Indicator (DI) is a service increase the amount of food donations American Indians and Alaska Natives provided by the Internal Revenue Serv- going to American Indians and Alaska across the Nation is at stake. ice (IRS) that informs the lender Natives nationwide. I ask unanimous consent that the whether or not an applicant owes Fed- Unfortunately, the poverty rate text of this bill be printed in the eral or State taxes, child support, stu- among American Indians and Alaska RECORD. dent loans, or other government obli- Natives continues to be high. Specifi- There being no objection, the text of gations, which assists tax preparers in cally, the poverty rate for our Nation’s the bill was ordered to be printed in ascertaining the ability of applicants American Indians and Alaska Natives the RECORD as follows: to obtain their full refund so that the is over three times that of non-His- S. 1132 RAL is repaid. The Department of the panic whites, according to the U.S. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Treasury should not be facilitating Census Bureau. Not only do natives resentatives of the United States of America in these predatory loans that allow tax face greater challenges in securing Congress assembled, preparers to reap outrageous profits by basic household necessities, but in se- SECTION 1. CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS OF AP- exploiting working families. curing food as well. PARENTLY WHOLESOME FOOD TO Unfortunately too many working According to a 2005 U.S. Department INDIAN TRIBES. families are susceptible to predatory of Agriculture report, 35.1 million (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 170(e)(3) of the In- lending because they are left out of the Americans face challenges in getting ternal Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to spe- financial mainstream. Between 25 and enough food to eat. This includes 12.4 cial rule for contributions of inventory and 56 million adults are unbanked, or not other property) is amended— million children. Of these statistics, (1) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as using mainstream, insured financial in- Natives constitute a disproportionate subparagraph (F); and stitutions. The unbanked rely on alter- number due to the higher poverty rate (2) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the native financial service providers to among this group. following new subparagraph: obtain cash from checks, pay bills,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.060 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4613 send remittances, utilize payday loans, at federally insured banks or credit (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This section shall and obtain credit. Many of the unions via appropriate tax forms. Pro- apply to loans made after the date of the en- unbanked are low-and moderate-in- viding taxpayers with the option of actment of this Act. come families that can ill afford to opening a bank or credit union account SEC. 5. TERMINATION OF DEBT INDICATOR PRO- GRAM. have their earnings unnecessarily di- through the use of tax forms provides The Secretary of the Treasury shall termi- minished by high-cost and often preda- an alternative to RALs and immediate nate the Debt Indicator program announced tory financial services. In addition, the access to financial opportunities found in Internal Revenue Service Notice 99–58. unbanked are unable to save securely at banks and credit unions. SEC. 6. DETERMINATION OF ELECTRONIC FILING to prepare for the loss of a job, a family I want to thank my colleagues, Sen- GOALS. illness, a down payment on a first ators BINGAMAN and DURBIN for cospon- (a) IN GENERAL.—Any electronically filed home, or education expenses. soring this legislation. I also appre- Federal tax returns, that result in Federal tax refunds that are distributed by refund My legislation will protect con- ciate the efforts of Representative JAN sumers against predatory loans, reduce anticipation loans, shall not be taken into SCHAKOWSKY who will be reintroducing account in determining if the goals required the involvement of the Department of the companion legislation in the other under section 2001(a)(2) of the Restructuring the Treasury in facilitating the exploi- body. I ask unanimous consent that and Reform Act of 1998 that the Internal tation of taxpayers, and expand access the text of the Taxpayer Abuse Preven- Revenue Service have at least 80 percent of to opportunities for saving and lending tion Act be printed in the RECORD. all such returns filed electronically by 2007 at mainstream financial services. I urge my colleagues to support this are achieved. My bill prohibits refund anticipation important legislation that will restrict (b) REFUND ANTICIPATION LOAN.—For pur- loans that utilize EITC benefits. Other predatory RALs and expand access to poses of subsection (a), the term ‘‘refund an- Federal benefits, such as Social Secu- ticipation loan’’ means a loan of money or of mainstream financial services. any other thing of value to a taxpayer be- rity, have similar restrictions to en- There being no objection, the text of cause of the taxpayer’s anticipated receipt of sure that the beneficiaries receive the the bill was ordered to be printed in a Federal tax refund. intended benefit. the RECORD, as follows: SEC. 7. EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR ELEC- My bill also limits several of the ob- S. 1134 TRONIC TRANSFER ACCOUNTS. jectionable practices of RAL providers. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (a) IN GENERAL.—The last sentence of sec- It will prohibit lenders from using tax resentatives of the United States of America in tion 3332(j) of title 31, United States Code, is refunds to collect outstanding obliga- Congress assembled, amended by inserting ‘‘other than any payment under section 32 of such Code’’ after tions for previous RALs. In addition, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. mandatory arbitration clauses for This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Taxpayer ‘‘1986’’. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment Abuse Prevention Act’’. RALs that utilize federal tax refunds made by this section shall apply to payments would be prohibited to ensure that con- SEC. 2. PREVENTION OF DIVERSION OF EARNED made after the date of the enactment of this INCOME TAX CREDIT BENEFITS. sumers have the ability to take future Act. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 32 of the Internal legal action if necessary. Revenue Code of 1986 (relating to earned in- SEC. 8. PROGRAM TO ENCOURAGE THE USE OF It is troubling that the Department THE ADVANCE EARNED INCOME TAX come tax credit) is amended by adding at the CREDIT. of the Treasury facilitates refund an- end the following new subsection: ticipation loans. In 1995, the use of the (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 6 months ‘‘(n) PREVENTION OF DIVERSION OF CREDIT after the date of the enactment of this Act, DI was suspended because of massive BENEFITS.—The right of any individual to the Secretary of the Treasury shall, after fraud in e-filed returns with RALs. The any future payment of the credit under this consultation with such private, nonprofit, use of the DI was reinstated in 1999. section shall not be transferable or assign- and governmental entities as the Secretary Use of the Debt Indicator should once able, at law or in equity, and such right or determines appropriate, develop and imple- again be stopped. The DI is helping tax any moneys paid or payable under this sec- ment a program to encourage the greater tion shall not be subject to any execution, preparers make excessive profits from utilization of the advance earned income tax levy, attachment, garnishment, offset, or credit. low- and moderate-income taxpayers other legal process except for any out- who utilize RALs. The IRS should not (b) REPORTS.—Not later than the date of standing Federal obligation. Any waiver of the implementation of the program de- aide unscrupulous preparers who take the protections of this subsection shall be scribed in subsection (a), and annually there- the earned benefit away from low-in- deemed null, void, and of no effect.’’. after, the Secretary of the Treasury shall re- come families. My bill terminates the (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment port to the Committee on Finance of the DI program. In addition, this bill re- made by this section shall take effect on the Senate and the Committee on Ways and date of the enactment of this Act. moves the incentive to meet congres- Means of the House of Representatives on SEC. 3. PROHIBITION ON DEBT COLLECTION OFF- the elements of such program and progress sionally mandated electronic filing SET. goals by facilitating the exploitation of achieved under such program. (a) IN GENERAL.—No person shall, directly (c) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— taxpayers. My bill would exclude any or indirectly, individually or in conjunction There is authorized to be appropriated such electronically filed tax returns result- or in cooperation with another person, en- sums as are necessary to carry out the pro- ing in tax refunds distributed by refund gage in the collection of an outstanding or gram described in this section. Any sums so anticipation loans from being counted delinquent debt for any creditor or assignee appropriated shall remain available until ex- towards the goal established by the by means of soliciting the execution of, proc- pended. essing, receiving, or accepting an application IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of SEC. 9. PROGRAM TO LINK TAXPAYERS WITH DI- or agreement for a refund anticipation loan 1998, which is to have at least 80 per- RECT DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS AT FED- or refund anticipation check that contains a ERALLY INSURED DEPOSITORY IN- cent of all returns filed electronically provision permitting the creditor to repay, STITUTIONS. by 2007. by offset or other means, an outstanding or (a) ESTABLISHMENT OF PROGRAM.—Not later My bill also expands access to main- delinquent debt for that creditor from the than 1 year after the date of the enactment stream financial services. Electronic proceeds of the debtor’s Federal tax refund. of this Act, the Secretary of the Treasury Transfer Accounts (ETA) are low-cost (b) REFUND ANTICIPATION LOAN.—For pur- shall enter into cooperative agreements with accounts at banks and credit unions in- poses of subsection (a), the term ‘‘refund an- federally insured depository institutions to tended for recipients of certain federal ticipation loan’’ means a loan of money or of provide low- and moderate-income taxpayers any other thing of value to a taxpayer be- benefit payments. Currently, ETAs are with the option of establishing low-cost di- cause of the taxpayer’s anticipated receipt of rect deposit accounts through the use of ap- provided for recipients of other federal a Federal tax refund. propriate tax forms. benefits such as Social Security pay- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—This section shall (b) FEDERALLY INSURED DEPOSITORY INSTI- ments. My bill expands the eligibility take effect on the date of the enactment of TUTION.—For purposes of this section, the for ETAs to include EITC benefits. this Act. term ‘‘federally insured depository institu- These accounts will allow taxpayers to SEC. 4. PROHIBITION OF MANDATORY ARBITRA- tion’’ means any insured depository institu- receive direct deposit refunds into an TION. tion (as defined in section 3 of the Federal account without the need for a refund (a) IN GENERAL.—Any person that provides Deposit Insurance Act (12 U.S.C. 1813)) and a loan to a taxpayer that is linked to or in any insured credit union (as defined in sec- anticipation loan. Furthermore, my anticipation of a Federal tax refund for the tion 101 of the Federal Credit Union Act (12 bill would mandate that low- and mod- taxpayer may not include mandatory arbi- U.S.C. 1752)). erate-income taxpayers be provided op- tration of disputes as a condition for pro- (c) OPERATION OF PROGRAM.—In providing portunities to open low-cost accounts viding such a loan. for the operation of the program described in

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.047 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4614 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 subsection (a), the Secretary of the Treasury the Federal Arbitration Act in a com- from the Federal Arbitration Act for is authorized— prehensive manner. different classes of contracts from (1) to consult with such private and non- The approach of reforming arbitra- automobile franchise contracts to em- profit organizations and Federal, State, and tion rather than abandoning the arbi- ployment contracts to chicken farm- local agencies as determined appropriate by ers, such exemptions would not help the Secretary, and tration process provides a better solu- (2) to promulgate such regulations as nec- tion in several respects. Arbitration is the overwhelming majority of the peo- essary to administer such program. one of the most cost-effective means of ple who could not afford a lawyer to (d) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— resolving disputes. Unlike businesses, litigate in court. This is where arbitra- There is authorized to be appropriated such consumers and employees generally tion can give consumers and employees sums as are necessary to carry out the pro- cannot afford a team of lawyers to rep- a cost-effective forum to assert their gram described in this section. Any sums so resent them. And their claims are often claims. Thus, before we make excep- appropriated shall remain available until ex- tions to the Federal Arbitration Act pended. not big enough so that a lawyer would take the case on a 25 percent or even a for special interests with friends in By Mr. SESSIONS: 50 percent contingent fee. In a 1998 ar- Washington, I think it is our duty to S. 1135. A bill to amend chapter 1 of ticle in the Columbia Human Rights consider how we can improve the sys- title 9, United States Code, to establish Law Review, Lewis Maltby, then the tem for everyone. fair procedures for arbitration clauses Director of the National Task Force on We can improve the arbitration sys- in contracts; to the Committee on the Civil Liberties in the Workplace of the tem, but we must take a balanced ap- Judiciary. American Civil Liberties Union and a proach. In such an approach, we must Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I rise Director of the American Arbitration protect the sanctity of legal contracts and send to the desk a bill entitled the Association, explained how court liti- explicitly protected under Article I, ‘‘Fair Arbitration Act of 2007.’’ This gation is often just too expensive for Section 10 of the U.S. Constitution. In bill continues the legislative process most employees: any contract, the parties must agree to that I started several years ago with Even if the client has clearly been wronged all the terms and clauses included in the introduction of the ‘‘Consumer and and is virtually certain to prevail in court, the contract document. This includes Employee Arbitration Bill of Rights’’ the attorney will be forced to turn down the the arbitration clause. This is basic and the ‘‘Arbitration Fairness Act of case unless there are substantial damages. A contract law, and the basic premise of 2002.’’ The purpose of the Fair Arbitra- survey of plaintiff employment lawyers the Federal Arbitration Act for over 75 tion Act of 2007, like my earlier profound that a prospective plaintiff needed to years. posals, is to improve the Federal Arbi- have a minimum of $60,000 in provable dam- Unfortunately, however, in certain ages not including pain and suffering or tration Act so that it will remain a situations consumers, employees, and other intangible damages before an attorney small businesses have not been treated cost-effective means of resolving dis- would take the case. putes, but will do so in a fair way. The Even this, however, does not exhaust the fairly. That is what the Fair Arbitra- Fair Arbitration Act will provide pro- financial obstacles an employee must over- tion Act is designed to correct. The bill will maintain the cost sav- cedural protections to everyone who come to secure representation. In light of ings of binding arbitration, but will enters into a contract with an arbitra- their risk of losing such cases, many plain- grant several specific ‘‘due process’’ tion clause. This bill ensures that con- tiffs’ attorneys require a prospective client to pay a retainer, typically about $3,000. Oth- rights to all parties to an arbitration sumers, employees, and small busi- ers require clients to pay out-of-pocket ex- proceeding. The bill is modeled after nesses that enter into contracts cov- penses of the case as they are incurred. Ex- consumer and employee due process ered by the Federal Arbitration Act penses in employment discrimination cases protocols of the American Arbitration will have their disputes resolved in ac- can be substantial. Donohue and Siegelman Association, which have broad support. cordance with fundamental principles found that expenses in Title VII cases are at least $10,000 and can reach as high as $25,000. The bill provides the following rights: of due process, and in a speedy and 1. Notice. Under the bill, to be en- cost-effective manner. Finally, some plaintiffs’ attorneys now require a consultation fee, generally $200–$300, forceable, an arbitration clause would Congress originally enacted the Fed- have to have a heading in large, bold eral Arbitration Act in 1925. It has just to discuss their situation with a potential client. print, would have to state whether ar- served us well for over three-quarters The result of these formidable hurdles is bitration is binding or optional, iden- of a century. Under the Act, if the par- that most people with claims against their tify a source that the parties may con- ties agree to a contract affecting inter- employer are unable to obtain counsel, and tact for more information, and state state commerce that contains a clause thus never receive justice. Paul Tobias, that a consumer could opt out to small requiring arbitration, the clause will founder of the National Employment Law- yers’ Association, has testified that ninety- claims court. be enforceable in court. In short, the This will ensure, for example, that Federal Arbitration Act allows parties five percent of those who seek help from the private bar with an employment matter do consumers who receive credit card no- to a contract to agree not to take their not obtain counsel. Howard’s survey of plain- tices in the mail will not miss an arbi- disputes to court, but to resolve any tiffs’ lawyers produced the same result. A tration clause because it is lost in the dispute arising from that contract be- Detroit firm reported that only one of ‘‘fine print.’’ Further, it would give all fore a neutral decision-maker, gen- eighty-seven employees who came to them parties a means to obtain more infor- erally selected by a nonprofit arbitra- seeking representation was accepted as a cli- mation on how to resolve any disputes. tion organization, such as the Amer- ent. Finally, the clause would explain that ican Arbitration Association or the Na- Without arbitration, consumers and if a party’s claims could otherwise be tional Arbitration Forum. The parties employees are faced with having to pay brought in small claims court, the can generally present evidence and be a lawyer’s hourly rate, which may party would be free to do so. Small represented by counsel. And the deci- amount to several thousand dollars to claims court, unlike regular trial sion-makers will apply the relevant litigate a claim in court. If that is court, provides another inexpensive State law in resolving the dispute. Ar- what consumers and employees are left and quick means of dispute resolution. bitration is generally quicker and less with, many will have no choice but to 2. Independent selection of arbitra- expensive than going to court. drop their claim. That is not right. It tors. The bill grants all parties the In recent years, there have been some is not fair. Thus, Professor Stephen right to have potential arbitrators dis- cases where the arbitration process has Ware of the Cumberland Law School close relevant information concerning not worked well, but thousands of dis- stated in a paper published by the their business ties and employment. putes have been fairly and effectively CATO Institute that ‘‘current [arbitra- All parties to the arbitration will have settled by arbitrators. Such a system is tion] law is better for all consumers an equal voice in selecting a neutral even more important because of sky- [than an exemption from the Federal arbitrator. This ensures that the large rocketing legal costs where attorneys Arbitration Act] except those few who company who sold a consumer a prod- require large contingency fees. Accord- are especially likely to have large li- uct will not select the arbitrator itself, ingly, I have opposed piecemeal legisla- ability claims. . . .’’ because the consumer with a grievance tive changes to the act. Instead, I be- Thus, while some have argued that will have the right to nominate poten- lieve that the Senate should approach the Congress should enact exemptions tial arbitrators, too. As a result, the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.052 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4615 final arbitrator selected will have to must file an answer not more than 30 trate their claims will be treated fairly have the explicit approval of both par- days of the filing of the complaint. The under the Federal Arbitration Act. ties to the dispute. This helps ensure arbitrator has 90 days after the answer I ask unanimous consent that the that the arbitrator will be a neutral to hold a hearing. The arbitrator must text of the bill be printed in the party with no allegiance to either render a final decision within 30 days RECORD. party. after the hearing. Extensions are avail- There being no objection, the text of 3. Choice of law. The bill grants the able in extraordinary circumstances. the bill was ordered to be printed in non-drafting party, usually the con- 10. Written decision. The bill grants the RECORD, as follows: sumer or the employee, the right to all parties the right to a written deci- S. 1135 have the arbitrator governed by the sion by the arbitrator explaining the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- substantive law that would apply under resolution of the case and his reasons resentatives of the United States of America in conflicts of laws principles applicable therefor. If the consumer or employee Congress assembled, in the forum in which the non-drafting takes a claim to arbitration, he de- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Fair Arbi- party resided at the time the contract serves to have an explanation of why tration Act of 2007’’. was entered into. This means that the he won or lost. SEC. 2. ELECTION OF ARBITRATION. substantive contract law that would 11. Expenses. The bill grants all par- (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 1 of title 9, apply in a court where the consumer, ties the right to have an arbitrator United States Code, is amended by adding at employee, or business resides at the provide for reimbursement of arbitra- the end the following: time of making the contract will apply tion fees in the interests of justice and ‘‘§ 17. Election of arbitration in the arbitration. Thus, in a dispute the reduction, deferral, or waiver of ar- ‘‘(a) FAIR DISCLOSURE.—In order to be bind- arising from the purchase of a product bitration fees in cases of extreme hard- ing on the parties, a contract containing an by an Alabama consumer from an Illi- ship. It does little good to take a claim arbitration clause shall— nois company, a court would have to to arbitration if the consumer or em- ‘‘(1) have a printed heading in bold, capital ployee cannot even afford the arbitra- letters entitled ‘ARBITRATION CLAUSE’, determine whether Alabama or Illinois which heading shall be printed in letters not tion fee. This provision ensures that law applied by looking to the language smaller than 1⁄2 inch in height; of the contract and to the place where the arbitrator can waive or reduce the ‘‘(2) explicitly state whether participation the contract was entered into. The bill fee or make the company reimburse within the arbitration program is mandatory ensures that an arbitrator would use the consumer or employee for a fee if or optional; the same conflict of laws principles the interests of justice so require. ‘‘(3) identify a source that a consumer or that a court would in determining 12. Small claims opt-out. The bill employee can contact for additional infor- whether Alabama or Illinois law would grants all parties the right to opt out mation regarding— ‘‘(A) costs and fees of the arbitration pro- govern the arbitration proceedings. of arbitration into small claims court if that court has jurisdiction over the gram; and 4. Representation. The bill grants all ‘‘(B) all forms and procedures necessary for parties the right to be represented by claim and the claim does not exceed effective participation in the arbitration counsel at their own expense. Thus, if $50,000. program; and the claim involves complicated legal The bill also provides an effective ‘‘(4) provide notice that all parties retain issues, consumers, employees, or small mechanism for parties to enforce these the right to resolve a dispute in a small businesses would be free to have their rights. At any time, if a consumer or claims court, as provided in subsection lawyer represent him in the arbitra- employee believes that another party (b)(12). ‘‘(b) PROCEDURAL RIGHTS.— tion. Such representation should be violated his or her rights, the consumer or employee can request and the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If a contract provides for substantially less expensive than a the use of arbitration to resolve a dispute trial in court because of the more ab- arbitrator may award a penalty up to arising out of or relating to the contract, breviated and expedited process of arbi- the amount of the claim plus attorneys each party to the contract shall be afforded tration. fees. For example, if a defendant party the rights described in this subsection, in ad- 5. Hearing. The bill grants all parties failed to provide discovery to a plain- dition to any rights provided by the con- the right to a fair hearing in a forum tiff party, the plaintiff could move for tract. that is reasonably convenient to the an award of fees. The amount of the fee ‘‘(2) COMPETENCE AND NEUTRALITY OF ARBI- consumer or employee. This would pre- award is limited, as it is in court, to TRATOR AND ADMINISTRATIVE PROCESS.— the amount of cost incurred by the em- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Each party to the dis- vent a large company from requiring pute (referred to in this section as a ‘party’) consumers, employees, or small busi- ployee in trying to obtain the informa- shall be entitled to a competent, neutral ar- ness owners to travel across the coun- tion from the company. This principle bitrator and an independent, neutral admin- try to arbitrate their claim and to ex- is taken from Rule 37 of the Federal istration of the dispute. pend more in travel costs than their Rules of Civil Procedure. After the de- ‘‘(B) ARBITRATOR.—Each party shall have claim is potentially worth. cision, if the losing party believes that an vote in the selection of the arbitrator, 6. Evidence. The bill grants all par- the rights granted to him by the Act who— ties the right to conduct discovery and have been violated, it may file a peti- ‘‘(i) unless otherwise agreed by the parties, tion with the Federal district court. If shall be a member in good standing of the to present evidence. This ensures that bar of the highest court of the State in the arbitrator can have all the facts be- the court finds by clear and convincing which the hearing is to be held; fore making a decision. evidence that the losing party’s rights ‘‘(ii) shall comply with the Code of Ethics 7. Cross examination. The bill grants were violated, it may order a new arbi- for Arbitrators in Commercial Disputes of all parties the right to cross examine trator appointed. Thus, if a consumer, the American Bar Association and the Amer- witnesses presented by the other party employee, or small business has an ar- ican Arbitration Association and any appli- at the hearing. This allows a party to bitrator that is unfair and this causes cable code of ethics of any bar of which the test the statements of the other par- him to lose the case, the plaintiff can arbitrator is a member; ty’s witnesses and be sure that the evi- obtain another arbitrator. ‘‘(iii) shall have no— This bill is an important step to con- ‘‘(I) personal or financial interest in the re- dence before the arbitrator is correct. sults of the proceedings in which the arbi- 8. Record. The bill grants all parties tinuing a constructive dialog on arbitrator is appointed; or the right to hire a stenographer or tape tration. This bill will ensure that those ‘‘(II) relation to the underlying dispute or record the hearing to produce a record. who can least afford to go to court can to the parties or their counsel that may cre- This right is key to proving later go to a less expensive arbitrator and be ate an appearance of bias; and whether the arbitration proceeding was treated fairly. It will ensure that every ‘‘(iv) prior to accepting appointment, shall fair. arbitration carried out under the Fed- disclose all information that might be rel- 9. Timely resolution. The bill grants eral Arbitration Act is completed fair- evant to neutrality (including service as an all parties the right to have an arbitra- ly, promptly, and economically. I look arbitrator or mediator in any past or pending case involving any of the parties or their tion proceeding completed promptly so forward to working with my colleagues representatives) or that may prevent a that they do not have to wait for a in the Senate to ensure that con- prompt hearing. year or more to have their claim re- sumers, employees, and small busi- ‘‘(C) ADMINISTRATION.—The arbitration solved. Under the bill, a defendant nesses who agree in a contract to arbi- shall be administered by an independent,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.059 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4616 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 neutral alternative dispute resolution orga- evidence in a timely manner so that the convincing evidence that an action or omis- nization to ensure fairness and neutrality hearing may be held not later than 90 days sion of the arbitrator resulted in a depriva- and prevent ex parte communication be- after the date of the filing of the answer. tion of a right of the petitioner under this tween parties and the arbitrator. The arbi- ‘‘(C) EXTENSIONS.—In extraordinary cir- section that was not harmless. If such a find- trator shall have reasonable discretion to cumstances (including multiparty, multidis- ing is made, the court shall order a rehearing conduct the proceeding in consideration of trict, or complex litigation) the arbitrator before a new arbitrator selected in the same the specific type of industry involved. may grant a limited extension of the time manner as the original arbitrator as the ex- ‘‘(3) APPLICABLE LAW.—In resolving a dis- limits under this paragraph, or the parties clusive judicial remedy provided by this sec- pute, the arbitrator— may agree to such an extension. tion. ‘‘(A) shall be governed by the same sub- ‘‘(D) DECISION.—The arbitrator shall notify ‘‘(d) LIMITATION ON CLAIMS.—Except as oth- stantive law that would apply under conflict each party of its decision not later than 30 erwise expressly provided in this section, of laws principles applicable in a court of the days after the hearing. nothing in this section may be construed to State in which the party that is not drafter ‘‘(10) WRITTEN DECISION.—The arbitrator be the basis for any claim in law or equity. of the contract resided at the time the con- shall provide each party with a written ex- ‘‘(e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section— tract was entered into; and planation of the factual and legal basis for ‘‘(1) the term ‘contract’ means a contract ‘‘(B) shall be empowered to grant whatever the decision. This written decision shall de- evidencing a transaction involving com- relief would be available in court under law scribe the application of an identified con- merce; and or equity. tract term, statute, or legal precedent. The ‘‘(2) the term ‘State’ includes the District ‘‘(4) REPRESENTATION.—Each party shall decision of the arbitrator shall be subject to of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto have the right to be represented by an attor- review only as provided in subsection (c)(2) Rico, Guam, the Commonwealth of the ney, or other representative as permitted by of this section and sections 10, 11, and 16 of Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Is- State law, at their own expense. this title. lands.’’. ‘‘(5) HEARING.— ‘‘(11) EXPENSES.—The arbitrator or inde- (b) TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING AMEND- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Each party shall be en- pendent arbitration administration organiza- MENT.—The table of sections at the begin- titled to a fair arbitration hearing (referred tion, as applicable, shall have the authority ning of chapter 1 of title 9, United States to in this section as a ‘hearing’) with ade- to— Code, is amended by adding at the end the quate notice and an opportunity to be heard. ‘‘(A) provide for reimbursement of arbitra- following: ‘‘(B) ELECTRONIC OR TELEPHONIC MEANS.— tion fees to the claimant, in whole or in part, ‘‘17. Election of arbitration.’’. Subject to subparagraph (C), in order to re- as part of the remedy in accordance with ap- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments duce cost, the arbitrator may hold a hearing plicable law or in the interests of justice; made by this section shall apply to any con- by electronic or telephonic means or by a and tract (as that term is defined in section 17 of submission of documents. ‘‘(B) waive, defer, or reduce any fee or title 9, United States Code, as added by this ‘‘(C) FACE-TO-FACE MEETING.—Each party charge due from the claimant in the event of Act) entered into after the date that is 6 shall have the right to require a face-to-face extreme hardship. months after the date of enactment of this hearing, which hearing shall be held at a lo- ‘‘(12) SMALL CLAIMS OPT OUT.— Act. cation that is reasonably convenient for the ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Each party shall have party who did not draft the contract unless the right to opt out of binding arbitration By Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, in the interest of fairness the arbitrator de- and to proceed in any small claims court Mr. BAUCUS, and Ms. CANT- termines otherwise, in which case the arbi- with jurisdiction over the claim. For pur- trator shall use the process described in sec- poses of this paragraph, no court with juris- WELL): tion 1391 of title 28, to determine the venue diction to hear claims in excess of $50,000 S. 1137. A bill authorize grants to for the hearing. shall be considered a small claims court. carry out projects to provide education ‘‘(6) EVIDENCE.—With respect to any hear- ‘‘(B) EXCEPTION.—If a complaint in small on preventing teen pregnancies, and for ing— claims court is amended to exceed the lesser other purposes; to the Committee on ‘‘(A) each party shall have the right to of the jurisdictional amount of that court or Health, Education, Labor, and Pen- present evidence at the hearing and, for this a claim for $50,000 in total damages, the sions. purpose, each party shall grant access to all small claims court exemption of this para- Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, information reasonably relevant to the dis- graph shall not apply and the parties shall pute to the other parties, subject to any ap- proceed by arbitration. today I am introducing the Teen Preg- plicable privilege or other limitation on dis- ‘‘(c) DENIAL OF RIGHTS.— nancy Prevention Responsibility and covery under applicable State law; ‘‘(1) DENIAL OF RIGHTS BY PARTY MIS- Opportunity Act, legislation that cre- ‘‘(B) consistent with the expedited nature CONDUCT.— ates a comprehensive approach to of arbitration, relevant and necessary pre- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—At any time during an fighting teen pregnancy and giving hearing depositions shall be available to arbitration proceeding, any party may file a young people the support they need to each party at the direction of the arbitrator; motion with the arbitrator asserting that make informed decisions. another party has deprived the movant of a and The results of a 1997 congressionally- ‘‘(C) the arbitrator shall— right granted by this section and seeking re- ‘‘(i) make reasonable efforts to maintain lief. ordered study were released this the privacy of the hearing to the extent per- ‘‘(B) AWARD BY ARBITRATOR.—If the arbi- month. The 6-year study found that mitted by applicable State law; and trator determines that the movant has been youth who participate in abstinence ‘‘(ii) consider appropriate claims of privi- deprived of a right granted by this section by education programs are no more or less lege and confidentiality in addressing evi- another party, the arbitrator shall award the likely to engage in sex than those who dentiary issues. movant a monetary amount, which shall not do not participate in abstinence edu- ‘‘(7) CROSS EXAMINATION.—Each party shall exceed the reasonable expenses incurred by cation programs. Both groups are re- have the right to cross examine witnesses the movant in filing the motion, including presented by the other parties at a hearing. attorneys’ fees, unless the arbitrator finds ported to have similar numbers of sex- ‘‘(8) RECORD OF PROCEEDING.—Any party that— ual partners, and to have sex for the seeking a stenographic record of a hearing ‘‘(i) the motion was filed without the mov- first time at about the same age; shall make arrangements directly with a ste- ant first making a good faith effort to obtain around 15 years old. This proves that nographer and shall notify the other parties discovery or the realization of another right abstinence-only education isn’t work- of these arrangements not less than 3 days granted by this section; ing. before the date of the hearing. The request- ‘‘(ii) the opposing party’s nondisclosure, But rather than invest in proven pro- ing party shall pay the costs of obtaining the failure to respond, response, or objection was grams, the Bush administration con- record. If the transcript is agreed by the par- substantially justified; or tinues to insist on a narrow-minded, ties, or determined by the arbitrator to be ‘‘(iii) the circumstances otherwise make an the official record of the proceeding, it shall award of expenses unjust. misguided approach of abstinence-only be provided to the arbitrator and made avail- ‘‘(2) DENIAL OF RIGHTS BY ARBITRATOR.— education. As this study demonstrates, able to the other parties for inspection, at a ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A losing party in an ar- abstinence-only just doesn’t cut it. The date, time, and place determined by the arbi- bitration proceeding may file a petition in United States continues to have the trator. the United States district court in the State highest teen-pregnancy rate and teen ‘‘(9) TIMELY RESOLUTION.— in which the party that did not draft the birth rate in the western industrialized ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Upon submission of a contract resided at the time the contract world. In a human context, this im- complaint by the claimant, the respondent was entered into to assert that the arbi- pacts one-third of all teenage girls. In shall have not more than 30 days to file an trator violated a right granted to the party answer. by this section and to seek relief. a fiscal context, these unintended preg- ‘‘(B) EVIDENCE.—After the answer is filed ‘‘(B) REVIEW.—A United States district nancies cost the United States at least by the respondent, the arbitrator shall direct court may grant a petition filed under sub- $9 billion annually despite Federal ap- each party to file documents and to provide paragraph (A) if the court finds clear and propriations of about $176 million a

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.050 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4617 year towards promoting abstinence life education and positive after school (14) defend our freedom and advance United until marriage. programs that will foster responsible States interests around the world; American taxpayers deserve a better young adults. Whereas members of the uniformed serv- rate of return on their investment. The time is now to invest in our ices and civilian employees at all levels of government make significant contributions American youth deserve quality edu- teens. We cannot afford to let doors to the general welfare of the United States, cation, positive role models, effective close on them. Instead we must con- and are on the front lines in the fight after school programs, employment op- tinue to open the door of opportunity. against terrorism and in maintaining home- portunities, and medically and scientif- I urge my colleagues to join me in sup- land security; ically accurate family life education. porting this important legislation. Whereas public servants work in a professional manner to build relationships with The time is now for a new direction in f sex education. other countries and cultures in order to bet- Adolescents need to know we care. SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS ter represent America’s interests and promote American ideals; They need to know we care as parents, Whereas public servants alert Congress and as educators, as business people, as the public to government waste, fraud, politicians, and as healthcare pro- SENATE RESOLUTION 150—EX- PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE abuse, and dangers to public health; viders. They need to know we want Whereas the men and women serving in the them to become successful contrib- SENATE THAT PUBLIC SERV- Armed Forces of the United States, as well uting members of society, but for that ANTS SHOULD BE COMMENDED as those skilled trade and craft Federal em- to happen we must commit to and in- FOR THEIR DEDICATION AND ployees who provide support to their efforts, vest in them. We need to be opening CONTINUED SERVICE TO THE NA- are committed to doing their jobs regardless TION DURING PUBLIC SERVICE of the circumstances, and contribute greatly doors for these young people, and that to the security of the Nation and the world; is just what my Teen Pregnancy Pre- RECOGNITION WEEK, MAY 7 THROUGH 13, 2007 Whereas public servants have bravely vention, Responsibility and Oppor- fought in armed conflict in defense of this tunity Act will do. Mr. AKAKA (for himself, Mr. Nation and its ideals and deserve the care The Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Re- VOINOVICH, Mr. LIEBERMAN, Ms. COL- and benefits they have earned through their sponsibility and Opportunity Act will LINS, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. STEVENS, Mr. CAR- honorable service; establish a comprehensive program for PER, Mr. WARNER, and Mr. LAUTEN- Whereas government workers have much reducing adolescent pregnancy through BERG) submitted the following resolu- to offer, as demonstrated by their expertise education and information programs, tion; which was referred to the Com- and innovative ideas, and serve as examples by passing on institutional knowledge to as well as positive activities and role mittee on Homeland Security and Gov- train the next generation of public servants; models both in school and out of ernmental Affairs: Whereas May 7 through 13, 2007, has been school. S. RES. 150 designated Public Service Recognition Week While we have done a good job of pro- Whereas Public Service Recognition Week to honor America’s Federal, State, and local gressively decreasing teen pregnancy, provides an opportunity to recognize the im- government employees; and we can do better. With the sons of teen portant contributions of public servants and Whereas Public Service Recognition Week mothers more likely to end up in pris- honor the diverse men and women who meet is celebrating its 23rd anniversary through on, and the daughters of teen mothers the needs of the Nation through work at all job fairs, student activities, and agency ex- levels of government; hibits: Now, therefore, be it more likely to end up teen mothers Resolved, That the Senate— themselves, we must act now to break Whereas millions of individuals work in government service in every city, county, (1) commends public servants for their out- this problematic cycle. and State across America and in hundreds of standing contributions to this great Nation The time is now to make a real dif- cities abroad; during Public Service Recognition Week and ference in the lives of our youth, and to Whereas public service is a noble calling throughout the year; give them the support they need to involving a variety of challenging and re- (2) salutes their unyielding dedication and grow and lead positive lives. warding professions; spirit for public service; Our schools, community and faith- Whereas Federal, State, and local govern- (3) honors those government employees who have given their lives in service to their based organizations need access to ments are responsive, innovative, and effective because of the outstanding work of pub- country; funds to teach age-appropriate, factu- (4) calls upon a new generation to consider ally and medically accurate, and sci- lic servants; Whereas the United States of America is a a career in public service as an honorable entifically-based family life education. great and prosperous Nation, and public profession; and We need programs that encourage service employees contribute significantly to (5) encourages efforts to promote public teens to delay sexual activity. that greatness and prosperity; service careers at all levels of government. We need to provide services and Whereas the Nation benefits daily from the Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, today I interventions for sexually active teens. knowledge and skills of these highly trained rise to submit a resolution to honor We need to educate both young men individuals; Federal, State, and local government and women about the responsibilities Whereas public servants— employees during Public Service Rec- and pressures that come along with (1) provide vital strategic support func- ognition Week. I am proud to be joined tions to our military and serve in the Na- parenting. OINOVICH tional Guard and Reserves; in this effort by Senators V , We need to help parents commu- (2) fight crime and fire; LIEBERMAN, COLLINS, LEVIN, STEVENS, nicate with teens about sexuality. (3) ensure equal access to secure, efficient, CARPER, WARNER, and LAUTENBERG and We need to teach young people re- and affordable mail service; by Representative DANNY DAVIS, chair- sponsible decision-making. (4) deliver social security and medicare man of the House Federal Workforce And, we need to fund after school benefits; Subcommittee, who is submitting this programs that will enrich their edu- (5) fight disease and promote better health; resolution in the House. cation, and offer character and coun- (6) protect the environment and the Na- We all recognize the important work seling services. tion’s parks; performed by public servants and the We know that after school programs (7) enforce laws guaranteeing equal employment opportunities and healthy working impact they have on all of our lives. reduce risky adolescent behavior by in- conditions; Over hundreds of years, our country volving teens in positive activities that (8) defend and secure critical infrastruc- has grown and prospered due in large also provide positive life skills. Teen- ture; part to the dedication of public serv- age girls who play sports, for instance, (9) help the Nation recover from natural ants at all levels of government. Each are more likely to wait to become sex- disasters and terrorist attacks; day public servants, in small and large ually active, and to have fewer part- (10) teach and work in our schools and li- ways, work to maintain, and in many ners. They are consequently less likely braries; cases enhance, the quality of our lives. to become pregnant. (11) develop new technologies and explore Whether they are saving lives as fire- the earth, moon, and space to help improve Let us join together to recommit our understanding of how our world changes; fighters, police officers, or members of ourselves to continuing to decrease the (12) improve and secure our transportation the Coast Guard; preserving our envi- incidence of teen pregnancy, and re- systems; ronment by patrolling parks, discov- commit ourselves to offering family (13) keep the Nation’s economy stable; and ering new ways to live ‘‘green,’’ or

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.056 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4618 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 working at wastewater treatment (1) commends the University of Wyoming SENATE RESOLUTION 153—MAKING plants; working to improve govern- Cowgirls for their victory in the champion- TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS TO ment services by eliminating waste, ship basketball game of the Women’s Na- THE SELECT COMMITTEE ON fraud, and abuse; or working to keep tional Invitation Tournament; and ETHICS (2) requests the Secretary of the Senate to our Nation safe as members of our Mr. REID submitted the following armed forces or as diplomats, public transmit a copy of this resolution to the University of Wyoming Cowgirls basketball resolution; which was considered and servants perform duties with excel- team Head Coach Joe Legerski and to the agreed to: lence and professionalism that Ameri- University of Wyoming President Thomas S. RES. 153 cans rely on every day. Buchanan for appropriate display. Resolved, That (a) for matters before the Public Service Recognition Week is a Select Committee on Ethics involving the great occasion to draw attention to f preliminary inquiry arising in connection and underscore the valuable contribu- with alleged communications by persons tions of those who dedicate themselves within the committee’s jurisdiction with and to public service. For more than 20 SENATE RESOLUTION 152—HON- concerning David C. Iglesias, then United years, the Nation has participated in a ORING THE LIFETIME ACHIEVE- States Attorney for the District of New Mex- week-long celebration to highlight MENTS OF JACKIE ROBINSON ico, and subsequent action by the committee their achievements. This year, the 23rd with respect to that matter, if any, the Sen- Mr. BUNNING (for himself, Mr. ator from Colorado (Mr. Salazar) shall be re- annual Public Service Recognition PRYOR, Mr. MCCONNELL, Mr. KERRY, placed by the Senator from Ohio (Mr. Week will take place May 7–13, 2007. Mr. OBAMA, and Mr. CARDIN) submitted Brown). State and Federal agencies across the (b) The membership of the Select Com- Nation plan to host activities to honor the following resolution; which was mittee on Ethics shall be unchanged with re- their achievements and improve public considered and agreed to: spect to all matters before that committee other than the matter referred to in sub- understanding of their contributions. S. RES. 152 section (a). As the Federal Government is facing Whereas Jackie Robinson was the first ath- f what the Office of Personnel Manage- lete in the history of the University of Cali- ment calls a retirement tsunami, Pub- fornia at Los Angeles to letter in 4 sports in AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND lic Service Recognition Week also pro- 1 year; PROPOSED vides an opportunity for the Federal Whereas on April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson SA 885. Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. Government to showcase the rewarding became the first African-American to play HAGEL, Mr. BIDEN, Mr. CASEY, and Mr. and challenging careers in the public for a major league baseball team; WHITEHOUSE) submitted an amendment in- sector and inspire a new generation of Whereas Jackie Robinson, who began his tended to be proposed to amendment SA 843 public servants. Working for the public career in the Negro Leagues, was named proposed by Mr. ROCKEFELLER (for himself good is a high and noble calling, and Rookie of the Year in 1947 and led the Brook- and Mr. BOND) to the bill S. 372, to authorize this annual celebration is the perfect lyn Dodgers to 6 National League pennants appropriations for fiscal year 2007 for the in- opportunity for Federal agencies to re- in 10 years and a World Series championship; telligence and intelligence-related activities cruit new employees. Whereas Jackie Robinson’s inspiring ca- of the United States Government, the Intel- reer earned him recognition as the first Afri- ligence Community Management Account, I want to thank all public employees can-American to win a batting title, to lead and the Central Intelligence Agency Retire- for the work they do day after day to the league in stolen bases, to play in an All- ment and Disability System, and for other make government effective, and I urge Star game, to play in the World Series, and purposes; which was ordered to lie on the my colleagues and all Americans to to win a Most Valuable Player award; table. join in Federal, State, and local cele- Whereas Jackie Robinson was elected to SA 886. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mr. BOND, brations and recognize the outstanding the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, the first and Mr. ROCKEFELLER) submitted an amend- contributions made by public servants African-American to receive such an honor; ment intended to be proposed to amendment to our daily lives. I ask my colleagues Whereas in March of 1984, President Ronald SA 843 proposed by Mr. ROCKEFELLER (for himself and Mr. BOND) to the bill S. 372, for their support for this resolution. Reagan posthumously awarded Jackie Rob- inson the Presidential Medal of Freedom; supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. f SA 887. Mr. BAYH submitted an amend- Whereas on October 29, 2003, Congress post- ment intended to be proposed to amendment SENATE RESOLUTION 151—COM- humously awarded Jackie Robinson the Con- SA 843 proposed by Mr. ROCKEFELLER (for gressional Gold Medal, the highest award MENDING THE UNIVERSITY OF himself and Mr. BOND) to the bill S. 372, WYOMING COWGIRLS FOR THEIR Congress can bestow; supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. CHAMPIONSHIP VICTORY IN THE Whereas Major League Baseball renamed f WOMEN’S NATIONAL INVITATION the Rookie of the Year Award the Jackie TOURNAMENT Robinson Award in his honor; TEXT OF AMENDMENTS Whereas his legacy continues through the Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. Mr. ENZI (for himself and Mr. THOM- Jackie Robinson Foundation that has pro- SA 885. AS) submitted the following resolution; vided over $14,500,000 in scholarships to stu- HAGEL, Mr. BIDEN, Mr. CASEY, and Mr. which was considered and agreed to: dents in need; WHITEHOUSE) submitted an amendment intended to be proposed to amendment S. RES. 151 Whereas Jackie Robinson’s courage and SA 843 proposed by Mr. ROCKEFELLER Whereas, on March 31, 2007, the University dignity taught the Nation about the strength of Wyoming Cowgirls defeated the Univer- of the human spirit when confronted with (for himself and Mr. BOND) to the bill sity of Wisconsin Badgers by a score of 72–56 seemingly immovable obstacles; S. 372, to authorize appropriations for in the championship basketball game of the Whereas Jackie Robinson, in his career, fiscal year 2007 for the intelligence and Women’s National Invitation Tournament; demonstrated that how you play the game is intelligence-related activities of the Whereas their victory was witnessed by a more important than the final score; United States Government, the Intel- record crowd at the University of Wyoming Whereas Jackie Robinson’s legacy helps ligence Community Management Ac- Arena-Auditorium; make the American dream more accessible count, and the Central Intelligence to all; Whereas the outstanding play of forward Agency Retirement and Disability Sys- Hanna Zavecz earned her the award of the Whereas April 15, 2007, marks the 60th an- Women’s National Invitation Tournament niversary of Jackie Robinson’s first game in tem, and for other purposes; which was Most Valuable Player; Major League Baseball; and ordered to lie on the table; as follows: Whereas the University of Wyoming Cow- Whereas on April 15, 2007, over 200 players, At the end of title III, add the following: girls Head Coach Joe Legerski led the Cow- managers, and coaches wore Jackie Robin- SEC. 315. NATIONAL INTELLIGENCE ESTIMATE girls basketball team to its most successful son’s number, 42, which was retired through- ON GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE. season in school history; and out Major League Baseball in 1997, to honor (a) REQUIREMENT FOR NATIONAL INTEL- Whereas the University of Wyoming stu- his achievements: Now, therefore, be it LIGENCE ESTIMATE.— dents and faculty are dedicated to academic (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in and athletic achievement, and serve as the Resolved, That the achievements and con- paragraph (2), not later than 270 days after standard of excellence, scholarship, and tributions of Jackie Robinson be honored the date of the enactment of this Act, the sportsmanship for the entire Nation: Now, and celebrated; that his dedication and sac- Director of National Intelligence shall sub- therefore, be it rifice be recognized; and that his contribu- mit to Congress a National Intelligence Esti- Resolved, That the Senate— tions to the Nation be remembered. mate (NIE) on the anticipated geopolitical

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.061 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4619 effects of global climate change and the im- mitted an amendment intended to be forces in the field, including for activities in plications of such effects on the national se- proposed to amendment SA 843 pro- Iraq, Afghanistan, Colombia, East, South curity of the United States. posed by Mr. ROCKEFELLER (for himself and Southeast Asia. (2) NOTICE REGARDING SUBMITTAL.—If the (2) A description of progress in developing and Mr. BOND) to the bill S. 372, to au- Director of National Intelligence determines next-generation stealth, medium-altitude that the National Intelligence Estimate re- thorize appropriations for fiscal year unmanned aerial vehicles. quired by paragraph (1) cannot be submitted 2007 for the intelligence and intel- (3) A schedule for addressing such short- by the date specified in that paragraph, the ligence-related activities of the United ages. Director shall notify Congress and provide— States Government, the Intelligence (4) An assessment of whether or not the (A) the reasons that the National Intel- Community Management Account, and Department of Defense has requested all ligence Estimate cannot be submitted by the Central Intelligence Agency Re- funds required to keep production lines for such date; and tirement and Disability System, and such unmanned aerial vehicles running at maximum capacity until such shortages are (B) an anticipated date for the submittal of for other purposes; which was ordered the National Intelligence Estimate. fully addressed, and, if not, a statement of (b) CONTENT.—The Director of National In- to lie on the table; as follows: the reasons why. telligence shall prepare the National Intel- At the end of subtitle B of title IV, insert (5) A description of the actions required to ligence Estimate required by this section the following: fully address such shortages. using the mid-range projections of the fourth SEC. 426. AVAILABILITY OF THE EXECUTIVE SUM- (6) An assessment of whether such short- assessment report of the Intergovernmental MARY OF THE OFFICE OF INSPEC- ages can be eliminated through the opening Panel on Climate Change— TOR GENERAL REPORT ON CENTRAL of additional production lines for Predator (1) to assess the political, social, agricul- INTELLIGENCE AGENCY ACCOUNT- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Global Hawk tural, and economic risks during the 30-year ABILITY REGARDING FINDINGS AND Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, as applicable, or CONCLUSIONS OF THE REPORT OF a sole-source producer delays the achieve- period beginning on the date of the enact- THE JOINT INQUIRY INTO INTEL- ment of this Act posed by global climate LIGENCE COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES ment of production and procurement sched- change for countries or regions that are— BEFORE AND AFTER THE TER- ules for such vehicles, and if so, rec- (A) of strategic economic or military im- RORIST ATTACKS OF SEPTEMBER 11, ommendations for securing one or more addi- portance to the United States and at risk of 2001. tional producers of such vehicles. significant impact due to global climate (a) PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.—Not later than (7) A statement of the anticipated overseas change; or 30 days after the date of the enactment of requirements for such unmanned aerial vehi- (B) at significant risk of large-scale hu- this Act, the Director of the Central Intel- cles during the five-year period beginning on manitarian suffering with cross-border im- ligence Agency shall make available to the the date of the report, including an assess- plications as predicted on the basis of the as- public an unclassified version of the Execu- ment of the extent to which long-endurance sessments; tive Summary of the report of the Inspector unmanned aerial vehicles, whether armed or (2) to assess other risks posed by global cli- General of the Central Intelligence Agency for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnais- mate change, including increased conflict entitled Office of Inspector General Report sance purposes, are long-term and growing over resources or between ethnic groups, on Central Intelligence Agency Account- requirement for the Armed Forces. within countries or transnationally, inability Regarding Findings and Conclusions (8) A statement as to whether domestic re- creased displacement or forced migrations of of the Report of the Joint Inquiry into Intel- quirements for medium-altitude unmanned vulnerable populations due to inundation or ligence Community Activities Before and aerial vehicles will further delay meeting all other causes, increased food insecurity, and After the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, overseas military and intelligence require- increased risks to human health from infec- 2001, issued in June 2005, that is declassified ments. tious disease; to the maximum extent possible, consistent (c) FORM.—The report required by subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified (3) to assess the capabilities of the coun- with national security. form, but may include a classified annex. tries or regions described in subparagraph (b) REPORT TO CONGRESS.—The Director of (A) or (B) of paragraph (1) to respond to ad- the Central Intelligence Agency shall submit f to Congress a classified annex to the declas- verse impacts caused by global climate NOTICES OF HEARINGS/MEETINGS change; sified Executive Summary made available (4) to assess the security implications and under subsection (a) that explains the reason PERMANENT SUBCOMMITTEE ON INVESTIGATIONS opportunities for the United States economy that any redacted material in the Executive Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I would of engaging, or failing to engage success- Summary was withheld from the public. like to announce for the information of fully, with other leading and emerging major the Senate and the public that the Per- contributors of greenhouse gas emissions in SA 887. Mr. BAYH submitted an manent Subcommittee on Investiga- efforts to reduce emissions; and amendment intended to be proposed to tions of the Committee on Homeland (5) to make recommendations for further amendment SA 843 proposed by Mr. Security and Governmental Affairs will assessments of security consequences of ROCKEFELLER (for himself and Mr. hold a hearing entitled ‘‘Transit Bene- global climate change that would improve BOND) to the bill S. 372, to authorize fits: How Some Federal Employees Are national security planning. appropriations for fiscal year 2007 for (c) COORDINATION.—In preparing the Na- Taking Uncle Sam For A Ride.’’ In tional Intelligence Estimate under this sec- the intelligence and intelligence-re- 2006, the Permanent Subcommittee on tion, the Director of National Intelligence lated activities of the United States Investigations, at Senator COLEMAN’s shall consult with representatives of the sci- Government, the Intelligence Commu- request, initiated an investigation into entific community, including atmospheric nity Management Account, and the possible abuses of the Federal Transit and climate studies, security studies, con- Central Intelligence Agency Retire- Benefit Program. Under this program, flict studies, economic assessments, and en- ment and Disability System, and for the Federal Government provides vironmental security studies, the Secretary other purposes; which was ordered to of Defense, the Secretary of State, the Ad- qualified Federal employees with bene- ministrator of the National Oceanographic lie on the table; as follows: fits for use on public transportation and Atmospheric Administration, the Ad- At the end of title V, add the following: systems in order to reduce air pollu- ministrator of the National Aeronautics and SEC. 509. PROCUREMENT OF PREDATOR AND tion and decrease traffic congestion. Space Administration, the Administrator of GLOBAL HAWK UNMANNED AERIAL For instance, employees living in the the Environmental Protection Agency, the VEHICLES AND RELATED SYSTEMS. Washington, D.C. area receive a paper Secretary of Energy, and the Secretary of (a) REPORT REQUIRED.—Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this card, called a Metrochek or Metro Agriculture, and, if appropriate, multilateral Smartrip, with a magnetically encoded institutions and allies of the United States Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to that have conducted significant research on Congress a report on the actions being taken value that can be used on Metrorail or global climate change. by the Department of Defense to address exchanged for an equivalent value in (d) FORM.—The National Intelligence Esti- shortfalls in the procurement of Predator train or bus tickets. The April 24th mate required by this section shall be sub- Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Global Hawk Subcommittee hearing will examine mitted in unclassified form, to the extent Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and associated or- whether transit benefits are being mis- consistent with the protection of intel- bits for military and intelligence mission re- used, program rules are being violated, ligence sources and methods, and include un- quirements. and agency oversight requires classified key judgments of the National In- (b) ELEMENTS.—The report required by sub- strengthening. Witnesses for the up- telligence Estimate. The National Intel- section (a) shall include the following: ligence Estimate may include a classified (1) A description of any shortages in avail- coming hearing will include the Gov- annex. able Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, ernment Accountability Office, the De- Global Hawk Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and partment of Transportation (DOT), the SA 886. Mr. WYDEN (for himself, Mr. associated orbits to meet requirements of DOT Inspector General, the Depart- BOND, and Mr. ROCKEFELLER) sub- United States military and intelligence ment of Defense (DOD), as well as the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.055 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4620 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 DOD Inspector General. A final witness water produced in connection with de- SUBCOMMITTEE ON SECURITIES, INSURANCE, AND list will be available on Friday, April velopment of energy resources; and INVESTMENT 20, 2007. H.R. 235, to allow for the renegotiation Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I The Subcommittee hearing is sched- of the payment schedule of contracts ask unanimous consent that the uled for Tuesday, April 24, 2007, at 2:30 between the Secretary of the Interior subcommitte on securities, insurance, p.m. in Room 342 of the Dirksen Senate and the Redwood Valley County Water and investment be authorized to meet Office Building. For further informa- District, and for other purposes. during the session of the Senate on tion, please contact Elise J. Bean, of Because of the limited time available April 17, 2007, at 3 p.m., to conduct a the Permanent Subcommittee on In- for the hearing, witnesses may testify hearing on ‘‘subprime mortgage mar- vestigations. by invitation only. However, those ket turmoil: Examining the role of COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL wishing to submit written testimony securitization.’’ RESOURCES—REVISED for the hearing record should send it to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I the Committee on Energy and Natural objection, it is so ordered. would like to announce for the infor- Resources, United States Senate, f mation of the Senate and the public Washington, DC 20510–6150, or by email that a hearing has been scheduled be- to Gina [email protected]. PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR fore the Committee on Energy and Nat- f Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask ural Resources. unanimous consent that Martin Sobel, AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO The hearing will be held on April 23, a member of my staff, be granted floor MEET 2007 at 3 p.m. in room SD–366 of the privileges during this week’s session of Dirksen Senate Office Building. COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES the Senate. The purpose of the hearing is to re- Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ceive testimony on S. 1115, a bill to ask unanimous consent that the Com- objection, it is so ordered. promote the efficient use of oil, nat- mittee on Armed Services be author- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask ural gas, and electricity, reduce oil ized to meet during the session of the unanimous consent that an intern on consumption, and heighten energy effi- Senate on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at my staff, Maggie Haas, be granted the ciency standards for consumer prod- 9:30 a.m., in open session to receive tes- privilege of the floor for the remainder ucts and industrial equipment, and for timony on whether the Army and Ma- of this week. other purposes. rine Corps are properly sized, orga- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Because of the limited time available nized, and equipped to respond to the objection, it is so ordered. for the hearing, witnesses may testify most likely missions over the next two Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I ask by invitation only. However, those decades while retaining adequate capa- unanimous consent that Dr. Guy Clif- wishing to submit written testimony bility to respond to all contingencies ton be granted the privilege of the floor for the hearing record should send two along the spectrum of combat. for the remainder of the debate on S. 3. copies of their testimony to the Com- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without mittee on Energy and Natural Re- objection, it is so ordered. objection, it is so ordered. sources, United States Senate, Wash- COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND f ington, DC 20510–6150. TRANSPORTATION SUBCOMMITTEE ON WATER AND POWER Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I COMMENDING THE UNIVERSITY OF Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Com- WYOMING COWGIRLS would like to announce for the infor- mittee on Commerce, Science, and Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask mation of the Senate and the public Transportation be authorized to hold a unanimous consent that the Senate that a hearing has been scheduled be- hearing during the session of the Sen- now proceed to the consideration of S. fore the Subcommittee on Water and ate on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at 10 Res. 151, which was submitted earlier Power of the Committee on Energy and a.m., in room 253 of the Russell Senate today. Natural Resources. The hearing will be Office Building. The purpose of this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The held on April 25, 2007, at 2:30 p.m. in hearing is to examine the role of the clerk will report the resolution by room 366 of the Dirksen Senate Office Federal Communications Commission title. Building in Washington, DC. in reviewing the XM-Sirius merger, and The assistant legislative clerk read The purpose of the hearing is to re- issues related to the effect of this pro- as follows: ceive testimony on the following bills: posed merger on competition and the A resolution (S. Res. 151) commending the S. 175, to provide for a feasibility study public interest. of alternatives to augment the water University of Wyoming Cowgirls for their The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without championship victory in the Women’s Na- supplies of the Central Oklahoma Mas- objection, it is so ordered. tional Invitation Tournament. ter Conservancy District and cities SUBCOMMITTEE ON EMPLOYMENT AND There being no objection, the Senate served by the District; S. 324, to direct WORKPLACE SAFETY proceeded to consider the resolution. the Secretary of the Interior to con- Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask duct a study of water resources in the ask unanimous consent that the Sub- unanimous consent that the resolution State of New Mexico; S. 542, to author- committee on Employment and Work- be agreed to, the preamble be agreed ize the Secretary of the Interior to con- place Safety be authorized to hold a to, and the motion to reconsider be laid duct feasibility studies to address cer- hearing on domestic violence in the upon the table. tain water shortages within the Snake, workplace during the session of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Boise, and Payette River systems in Senate on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at 10 objection? the State of Idaho, and for other pur- a.m., in SD–628. Without objection, it is so ordered. poses; S. 752, to authorize the Sec- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The resolution (S. Res. 151) was retary of the Interior to participate in objection, it is so ordered. agreed to. the implementation of the Platte River SUBCOMMITTEE ON READINESS AND The preamble was agreed to. Recovery Implementation Program for MANAGEMENT SUPPORT The resolution, with its preamble, Endangered Species in the Central and Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, I reads as follows: Lower Platte River Basin and to mod- ask unanimous consent that the sub- ify the Pathfinder Dam and Reservoir; committee on readiness and manage- S. RES. 151 S. 1037, to authorize the Secretary of ment support be authorized to meet, in Whereas, on March 31, 2007, the University the Interior to assist in the planning, closed session, during the session of the of Wyoming Cowgirls defeated the Univer- design, and construction of the Tumalo sity of Wisconsin Badgers by a score of 72–56 Senate on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at 3 in the championship basketball game of the Irrigation District Water Conservation p.m., to receive a briefing on the cur- Women’s National Invitation Tournament; Project in Deschutes County, Oregon; rent readiness of U.S. Ground Forces. Whereas their victory was witnessed by a S. 1116 and H.R. 902, to facilitate the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without record crowd at the University of Wyoming use for irrigation and other purposes of objection, it is so ordered. Arena-Auditorium;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:03 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.063 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S4621 Whereas the outstanding play of forward ican to win a batting title, lead the Whereas Major League Baseball renamed Hanna Zavecz earned her the award of the league in stolen bases, play in an All- the Rookie of the Year Award the Jackie Women’s National Invitation Tournament Star game, play in the World Series, Robinson Award in his honor; Most Valuable Player; win a Most Valuable Player award, and Whereas his legacy continues through the Whereas the University of Wyoming Cow- Jackie Robinson Foundation that has pro- girls Head Coach Joe Legerski led the Cow- be elected to baseball’s Hall of Fame in vided over $14,500,000 in scholarships to stu- girls basketball team to its most successful 1962. dents in need; season in school history; and Off the baseball diamond, Jackie Whereas Jackie Robinson’s courage and Whereas the University of Wyoming stu- Robinson lived a life of achievement dignity taught the Nation about the strength dents and faculty are dedicated to academic through his work in the civil rights of the human spirit when confronted with and athletic achievement, and serve as the movement. In the business world, he seemingly immovable obstacles; standard of excellence, scholarship, and actively promoted Black enterprises in Whereas Jackie Robinson, in his career, sportsmanship for the entire Nation: Now, New York’s Harlem neighborhood. demonstrated that how you play the game is therefore, be it In March 1984, President Ronald more important than the final score; Resolved, That the Senate— Reagan posthumously awarded Jackie Whereas Jackie Robinson’s legacy helps (1) commends the University of Wyoming Robinson the Presidential Medal of make the American dream more accessible Cowgirls for their victory in the champion- to all; ship basketball game of the Women’s Na- Freedom. On October 29, 2003, Congress Whereas April 15, 2007, marks the 60th an- tional Invitation Tournament; and posthumously awarded Jackie Robin- niversary of Jackie Robinson’s first game in (2) requests the Secretary of the Senate to son the Congressional Gold Medal, the Major League Baseball; and transmit a copy of this resolution to the highest award Congress can bestow. His Whereas on April 15, 2007, over 200 players, University of Wyoming Cowgirls basketball mission to expand opportunity for oth- managers, and coaches wore Jackie Robin- team Head Coach Joe Legerski and to the ers continues today through the Jackie son’s number, 42, which was retired through- University of Wyoming President Thomas Robinson Foundation that has provided out Major League Baseball in 1997, to honor Buchanan for appropriate display. over $14.5 million in scholarships to his achievements: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the achievements and con- f students who might not otherwise be tributions of Jackie Robinson be honored HONORING THE LIFETIME able to afford college tuition. and celebrated; that his dedication and sac- ACHIEVEMENTS OF JACKIE ROB- Jackie Robinson was a good friend of rifice be recognized; and that his contribu- INSON mine, and it is with great reverence tions to the Nation be remembered. that I introduce, today, a resolution f Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask with Senators MARK PRYOR and MITCH unanimous consent that the Senate MCCONNELL to honor and celebrate his MAKING TEMPORARY APPOINT- now proceed to the consideration of S. achievements, recognize his sacrifices, MENTS TO THE SELECT COM- Res. 152, which was submitted earlier and remember his contributions to the MITTEE ON ETHICS today. Nation. His courage and dignity taught Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the Nation about the strength of the unanimous consent that the Senate clerk will report the resolution by human spirit when confronted with proceed to the immediate consider- title. seemingly immovable obstacles. We ation of S. Res. 153, submitted earlier The assistant legislative clerk read can best honor him by reflecting on the today. as follows: epigraph Robinson wrote for his own The PRESIDING OFFICER. The A resolution (S. Res. 152) honoring the life- tombstone, ‘‘The value of a life is clerk will report the resolution by time achievements of Jackie Robinson. measured by its impact on other lives.’’ title. There being no objection, the Senate Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask The assistant legislative clerk read proceeded to consider the resolution. unanimous consent that the resolution as follows: be agreed to, the preamble be agreed Mr. BUNNING. Mr. President, I A resolution (S. Res. 153) making tem- would like to take a moment to honor to, and the motion to reconsider be laid porary appointments to the Select Com- the legacy and achievements of Jackie upon the table. mittee on Ethics. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Robinson. There being no objection, the Senate On Sunday, over 200 Major League objection? Without objection, it is so ordered. proceeded to consider the resolution. players, manager, and coaches took to Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask baseball fields across the Nation wear- The resolution (S. Res. 152) was agreed to. unanimous consent that the resolution ing Jackie Robinson’s No. 42, which be agreed to, and the motion to recon- was retired throughout Major League The preamble was agreed to. The resolution, with its preamble, sider be laid upon the table. Baseball in 1997. Sixty years ago, on reads as follows: The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson became S. RES. 152 objection? the first African-American to play in a Without objection, it is so ordered. Major League Baseball game. Whereas Jackie Robinson was the first athlete in the history of the University of Cali- The resolution (S. Res. 153) was The first athlete to letter in four fornia at Los Angeles to letter in 4 sports in agreed to, as follows: sports in 1 year at the University of 1 year; S. RES. 153 California at Los Angeles, Jackie Rob- Whereas on April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson inson seemed destined to make a name became the first African-American to play Resolved, That (a) for matters before the for a major league baseball team; Select Committee on Ethics involving the for himself. He began his baseball ca- preliminary inquiry arising in connection reer in the Negro Leagues, playing Whereas Jackie Robinson, who began his career in the Negro Leagues, was named with alleged communications by persons shortstop for the Kansas City Mon- Rookie of the Year in 1947 and led the Brook- within the committee’s jurisdiction with and archs. In 1946, Jackie Robinson played lyn Dodgers to 6 National League pennants concerning David C. Iglesias, then United for the Montreal Royals, leading the in 10 years and a World Series championship; States Attorney for the District of New Mex- International League in batting aver- Whereas Jackie Robinson’s inspiring ca- ico, and subsequent action by the committee age with a .349 average, and fielding reer earned him recognition as the first Afri- with respect to that matter, if any, the Sen- percentage with a .985 percent. He can-American to win a batting title, to lead ator from Colorado (Mr. Salazar) shall be replaced by the Senator from Ohio (Mr. began his major league career at the the league in stolen bases, to play in an All- Star game, to play in the World Series, and Brown). age of 28 playing first base for the to win a Most Valuable Player award; (b) The membership of the Select Com- Brooklyn Dodgers—the only position Whereas Jackie Robinson was elected to mittee on Ethics shall be unchanged with re- that was open. the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1962, the first spect to all matters before that committee That year, he was named Rookie of African-American to receive such an honor; other than the matter referred to in sub- the Year. In 1948, he was moved to sec- Whereas in March of 1984, President Ronald section (a). Reagan posthumously awarded Jackie Rob- ond base and went on to lead the Dodg- f ers to six National League pennants in inson the Presidential Medal of Freedom; Whereas on October 29, 2003, Congress post- NATIONAL MISSING PERSONS DAY 10 years and a World Series champion- humously awarded Jackie Robinson the Con- ship. His inspiring career earned him gressional Gold Medal, the highest award Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask recognition as the first African-Amer- Congress can bestow; unanimous consent that the Senate

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.014 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE S4622 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2007 proceed to the immediate consider- 3701(a) of the Crime Control Act of 1990 (42 stand adjourned until 8:30 a.m., ation of Calendar No. 115, S. Res. 112. U.S.C. 5779(a)), so that agencies must enter Wednesday, April 18; that on Wednes- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The records into the NCIC database for all miss- day, following the prayer and the clerk will report the resolution by ing persons under the age of 21; pledge, the Journal of proceedings be title. Whereas Kristen’s Act (42 U.S.C. 14665), passed in 1999, has established grants for or- approved to date, the morning hour be The assistant legislative clerk read ganizations to, among other things, track deemed expired and the time for the as follows: missing persons and provide informational two leaders reserved for their use later A resolution (S. Res. 112) designating April services to families and the public; in the day; that there then be a period 6, 2007, as ‘‘National Missing Persons Day.’’ Whereas, according to the NCIC, 48,639 of morning business for 60 minutes, There being no objection, the Senate missing persons were located in 2005, an im- with Senators permitted to speak proceeded to consider the resolution. provement of 4.2 percent from the previous therein and with the time equally di- Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask year; vided and controlled between the ma- unanimous consent that the resolution Whereas many persons reported missing may be victims of Alzheimer’s disease or jority and the Republican leaders or be agreed to, the preamble be agreed other health-related issues, or may be vic- their designees; that following the 60 to, and the motions to reconsider be tims of foul play; minutes, the Senate resume the motion laid upon the table; that any state- Whereas, regardless of age or cir- to proceed to S. 3, the prescription ments relating thereto be printed in cumstances, all missing persons have fami- drug bill, and vote on the motion to in- the RECORD. lies who need support and guidance to endure voke cloture on the motion to proceed; The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there the days, months, or years they may spend that prior to the vote on the motion to objection? searching for their missing loved ones; and invoke cloture on the motion to pro- Whereas it is important to applaud the Without objection, it is so ordered. ceed to S. 378, the court security bill, The resolution (S. Res. 112) was committed efforts of families, law enforcement agencies, and concerned citizens who there be 2 minutes of debate equally di- agreed to. vided between Senators LEAHY and The preamble was agreed to. work to locate missing persons and to prevent all forms of victimization: Now, there- SPECTER or their designees. The resolution, with its preamble, fore, be it The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without reads as follows: Resolved, That the Senate— objection, it is so ordered. S. RES. 112 (1) designates April 6, 2007, as ‘‘National Whereas each year tens of thousands of Missing Persons Day’’; and f people go missing in the United States; (2) encourages the people of the United Whereas, on any given day, there are as States to— ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 8:30 A.M. (A) observe the day with appropriate pro- many as 100,000 active missing persons cases TOMORROW in the United States; grams and activities; and Whereas the Missing Persons File of the (B) support worthy initiatives and in- Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, if there National Crime Information Center (NCIC) creased efforts to locate missing persons. is no further business and if the Repub- was implemented in 1975; f lican leader has nothing further, I now Whereas, in 2005, 109,531 persons were re- ask unanimous consent that the Sen- ported missing to law enforcement agencies ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL ate stand adjourned under the previous nationwide, of whom 11,868 were between the 18, 2007 ages of 18 and 20; order. Whereas section 204 of the PROTECT Act, Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, lastly, I There being no objection, the Senate, known as Suzanne’s Law and passed by Con- ask unanimous consent that when the at 7:25 p.m., adjourned until Wednes- gress on April 10, 2003, modifies section Senate completes its business today, it day, April 18, 2007, at 8:30 a.m.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:55 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.086 S17APPT1 jcorcoran on PROD1PC62 with SENATE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E747 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

HONORING KATHLEEN KEMP, PH.D. zation, Dr. Block led the formation of the the strain on our domestic budget grows every Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center of Bucks day. HON. JASON ALTMIRE County, Pennsylvania’s first Biotech center. They go on to write, ‘‘Another of our con- In addition to his work with Hepatitis B re- cerns is the way our economy is being af- OF PENNSYLVANIA search, Dr. Block has initiated a Summer Re- fected by the war. Just think of what $2.9 tril- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES search Internship Program. The program af- lion dollars could have done for this Nation. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 fords college students the opportunity to par- Oil companies are making an annual profit of Mr. ALTMIRE. Madam Speaker, I rise to ticipate in research careers under the super- $39.5 billion dollars while many people in this recognize the career of Kathleen Kemp, Ph.D., vision of scientists. The Hepatitis B Founda- Nation suffer in poverty. They are suffering be- who is retiring this year after nearly 40 years tion also hosts an annual convention called cause in today’s society one cannot support a of teaching political science, the past 28 years the ‘‘B Informed Patient Conference,’’ at which family on the minimum wage of $5.15 an hour. of which were spent at my alma mater, Florida people from around the country can share ex- The money spent on the Iraq war has put a State University. periences and learn from experts. tremendous amount of pressure on the recipi- Dr. Kemp is a skilled and popular instructor Madam Speaker, Dr. Block has brought ents of Social Security. Many older Americans have to choose between medication and food who has authored many publications and won hope to millions of Hepatitis B patients and because they cannot afford both. Add to this numerous awards. In 1990, I was a student in has spearheaded discovery research in the the fact that thousand of Americans still do not her American Presidency class. I can say field. His zeal for helping other members of his community is unparalleled and the personal have any health insurance.’’ without reservation or exaggeration that Dr. I believe that no American should have to Kemp changed my life. responsibility he has taken on for Hepatitis B patients throughout his career is commend- be burdened with such consequences. We On the last day of my last class at Florida must find a way to balance the cost of this war able. I applaud his service to his community State, Dr. Kemp pulled me aside to rec- with the cost that families are continuing to and to those affected by a deadly disease. ommend that I consider volunteering for a pay here at home. local congressional campaign. I took her ad- f I applaud these young men for speaking up. vice and worked for the campaign throughout CIVICS CLASS VOICES CONCERNS They represent the voice of the majority of that summer and into the fall of 1990. Fol- ABOUT IRAQ Americans who want us out of Iraq, and I want lowing the election, the candidate, Congress- them to know that concerns have been heard. man Pete Peterson, hired me to work on his Rest assured, I will continue to do all that I Capitol Hill staff. This opportunity, which would HON. NICK J. RAHALL II can to make sure that their voices never go si- never have arisen without Dr. Kemp’s advice, OF WEST VIRGINIA lent and that we continue to strive for the best started me on a road that would eventually IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES course of action in Iraq and for our Nation lead to my election to Congress. More impor- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 here at home. tantly, I met my future wife, Kelly, on that Mr. RAHALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today f same campaign and we now have two beau- to speak on behalf of the growing sentiment IN HONOR OF THE CENTENNIAL tiful daughters. about the war in Iraq felt by not only the youth So, Madam Speaker, I can honestly say that ANNIVERSARY OF THE GARDEN of my district, but by the youth of the Nation STATE SYMPHONIC BAND Professor Kathleen Kemp greatly influenced as well. my career and had a profound impact on my Recently, a senior Civics Class from Boone life. I have no doubt that countless other stu- County in my district wrote to me expressing HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. OF NEW JERSEY dents she has instructed over the years can their concerns for the war and the effects this IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES say the same. war has had on the homefront. These stu- I thank her and wish her all the best in her dents represent a generation that will have to Tuesday, April 17, 2007 retirement. deal with the direct consequences of the ac- Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today f tions we take today. to honor the centennial anniversary of the RECOGNIZING DR. TIMOTHY BLOCK I’d like to read to you a portion of that letter. Garden State Symphonic Band. FOR HIS ROLE IN HEPATITIS Our primary concern is the war in Iraq. We The Garden State Symphonic Band was TYPE B RESEARCH are in favor of fighting terrorism, but Amer- founded in 1907 as the Goodwill Fife & Drum ica went into Iraq under false pretenses. We Corps. In 1920, the name was changed to the now know that Iraq had nothing to do with Goodwill Band, and they performed under this HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY the attack on 9/11. We believe that the rea- name until 1958, when it became the Bay City OF PENNSYLVANIA son we went to Iraq is to gain a stronghold Band. It was not until 1967 that the Garden on the oil fields. We are trading blood for oil. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES We have a strong feeling that American State Symphonic Band took its current title. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 should have never invaded Iraq because our Modeled after the extraordinarily successful presence there is breeding more terrorism Sousa Band of the early 20th century, the Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. around the world. We are giving terrorists a Garden State Symphonic Band’s primary goal Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of common foe to retaliate against. We are in- is to remain a traditional American profes- Dr. Timothy Block for his efforts in the re- cubating more hatred from other terrorists sional concert band while reaching as much of search of Hepatitis B. This truly remarkable in- and now giving them a reason to unite. the community as possible. This organization dividual has dedicated his life to expanding I not only share the students’ concerns is the oldest band of its nature in New Jersey knowledge of and solutions to a disease that about the war in Iraq, but I also share their and one of the only remaining in the entire kills one million people each year. concerns about the effect our involvement in mid-Atlantic region. Motivated to cure Hepatitis B by one af- the region has had here at home. The men Currently, the band is under the direction of flicted area family with nowhere else to turn, and women of our military have gone above Christian Pedersen, Jr., of Fords, NJ, and is Dr. Block established the Hepatitis B Founda- and beyond the call when it comes to serving composed of an ensemble of musicians hail- tion in 1991. Its mission: to discover a cure their country in Iraq, but more is still being ing from some of the most prestigious music and to help patients with the disease. In 2003, asked of them. While many of our troops are conservatories in the Nation. Many band Dr. Block and the Hepatitis B Foundation cre- serving their third tour of duty, the President members have previously performed with well- ated the Institute for Hepatitis and Virus Re- continues to move forward with his plan to known orchestras such as the New York Phil- search, a nonprofit organization that re- send more troops into the region. harmonic and the Metropolitan Opera Orches- searches the disease in search of a break- These students also point out that as this tra, while others have performed on Broadway through. As volunteer President of the organi- added strain on our military families continues, with major musicals.

∑ 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 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E748 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 The Garden State Symphonic Band has proud that in my own district, Bonita High building that refers to New Directions as ‘‘The played at numerous venues including the Gar- School, the Boys and Girls Club of the Foot- Last House on the Block.’’ Veterans arrive den State Arts Center and the Clinton Mu- hills and the Glendora Public Library have had often feeling they have bottomed out and are seum, in addition to several county and munic- the opportunity to benefit from these pro- without hope of overcoming their challenges. ipal parks. Each summer, the band provides grams. New Directions offers them another chance to 8–10 free outdoor performances entitled ‘‘Con- It is also important to note that efforts to en- turn their lives around. certs by the Bay’’ at Bayview Park in Perth hance financial literacy should not just be con- Los Angeles has the largest population of Amboy. fined to our own country. As we strive for ex- homeless veterans in the Nation. An estimated Madam Speaker, I sincerely hope that my panded trade and investment with our global 24,000 veterans live on the streets of Los An- colleagues will join me in celebrating the cen- partners, the financial ups and downs in world geles. Many of them suffer from co-occurring tennial anniversary of the Garden State Sym- markets have a greater impact on our local disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder— phonic Band. Through its cultural and artistic economies. Helping to spread financial and PTSD—as well as chronic medical problems. contributions, the Garden State Symphonic economic literacy to emerging markets is criti- New Directions welcomes these veterans and Band has become an integral part of the New cally important to establishing stability in de- offers them a safe environment to address Jersey community. veloping nations. For example, in 2004 their challenges. Citigroup and the Citigroup Foundation pro- I want to thank and acknowledge Toni and f John for the tremendous contributions they vided more than $22 million in support of fi- have made to veterans these past 15 years. SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND nancial education programs in activities that Their dedication and commitment are inspira- IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY reached millions of people in more than 40 tional. They have helped rebuild countless MONTH countries. These activities included community lives and for that we owe them a debt of grati- development projects to support the expansion SPEECH OF tude. of thrift and credit-based cooperative groups in I ask my colleagues to join me in sending HON. DAVID DREIER India and the development of a micro-finance our highest praise and thanks to Toni Reinis OF CALIFORNIA industry in China. and John Keaveney on celebrating the first 15 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ultimately, expanding access to the financial years of New Directions. system and knowledge of its workings pro- Monday, April 16, 2007 f vides individuals with greater choice when Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to managing finances, building wealth and mak- INTRODUCTION OF THE TECH- thank my colleagues Mr. HINOJOSA and the ing investments. These activities in turn lead NOLOGY INNOVATION AND MAN- Mrs. BIGGERT, for introducing H. Res. 273, a to increases in economic activity and growth UFACTURING STIMULATION ACT resolution supporting the goals and ideals of that benefits our entire Nation. I urge my col- OF 2007 Financial Literacy Month. As a member of the leagues to recognize the importance of finan- Financial and Economic Literacy Caucus and cial literacy and support this measure. HON. RALPH M. HALL a cosponsor of this resolution, I am proud to f OF TEXAS support this measure. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In this 21st century economy, more Ameri- TRIBUTE TO NEW DIRECTIONS ON cans have access to financial services and ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY Tuesday, April 17, 2007 products than ever before. With the click of a Mr. HALL. Madam Speaker, I rise today as button, consumers can perform a variety of fi- HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN an original co-sponsor of the Technology Inno- vation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act of nancial activities over the Internet, from paying OF CALIFORNIA 2007. This bill provides a three-year authoriza- bills to managing investments. Increased avail- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ability of credit allows more people to enjoy tion for the National Institute of Standards and the benefits of easy access to capital and en- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Technology (NIST). NIST is one of three hanced purchasing power. Today, half of all Mr. WAXMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise to agencies targeted by the President’s American American households own stocks. This grow- congratulate New Directions, a remarkable Competitiveness Initiative (ACI). The ACI aims ing number of ‘‘investor class’’ Americans are program located in the congressional district I to double the federal investment in physical participating in financial markets through re- represent, on celebrating its 15th year. science research over the next 10 years. This tirement plans, investment vehicles or Internet New Directions is a superb veterans’ service investment will ensure that American remains trading accounts. organization located on the West Los Angeles technologically competitive in the complex Yet, as this resolution recognizes, we must Veterans Affairs property. Started by Toni global marketplace. NIST plays a unique role in that its sci- do more to ensure that American citizens not Reinis and John Keaveney 15 years ago in a entists and engineers have a 100-year plus only have access to these important financial small rented house, it has grown to encom- history of working directly with American in- services, but are equipped with the knowledge pass four facilities totaling 223 long-term resi- dustries to address their needs for measure- to make critical financial decisions as they dential treatment beds for homeless veterans ment methods, tools, data, and technology. plan for the future. Whether it is buying a and their dependents. These are the building blocks that allow indus- home, paying for college, starting a small busi- New Directions has become a national try to grow and prosper. To cite just a few ex- ness or planning for retirement, it is imperative model for the successful treatment of veterans amples, NIST’s labs develop chemical, bio- that we help individuals develop a solid foun- battling co-occurring disorders—mental illness chemical, and chemical engineering measure- dation in personal finance. and substance abuse. Over the past 15 years, ments, data, models, and reference standards, We must also continue efforts to ensure that New Directions has been responsible for as- provide measurement science for the elec- individuals are equipped with the proper tools sisting over 8,000 homeless veterans and their tronics and electrical industries, and research to make smart financial decisions from an families in getting back on their feet and re- and develop test methods and standards to early age. Reading, writing and math, the tra- integrated into our community. improve the usability, reliability and security of ditional cornerstones of our education system, New Directions provides a comprehensive computers and computer networks for work need to be supplemented with a curriculum network of therapeutic services to assist vet- and home. that will equip America’s youth to meet the erans. Veterans living at New Directions are The Technology Innovation and Manufac- real-life demands of the 21st century. In the given job training and placement assistance, turing Stimulation Act of 2007 supports the fast-paced and increasingly complex world in parenting and money management classes, President’s ACI by authorizing NIST’s labs at which we live, teaching our students about legal and financial assistance, remedial edu- a rate that would double the budget over the personal finance issues, from basic spending cation and resources for alumni. Residents next 10 years. The bill also supports the com- decisions to investing and saving for retire- leave New Directions with a job, housing, a petitiveness of American’s small and medium- ment, is critical. The efforts of organizations savings account, computer skills, renewed sized manufacturers by authorizing the Manu- like Visa USA, Citigroup, the Credit Union Na- self-confidence and the support of mentors facturing Extension Partnership Program. Fi- tional Association, the American Bankers As- and peers. Under Toni and John’s guidance, nally, the bill ensures that new research find- sociation and the Securities Industry Associa- veterans undergo astounding, life-altering ings will find their way quickly to the market- tion have helped to bring financial literacy pro- transformations. place by authorizing the Technology Innova- grams to our Nation’s youth in classrooms, As veterans enter the building, the first thing tion Program to provide grants to accelerate after-school programs and libraries. I am they see is a plaque on the outside of the the development of high-risk technologies.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E749

I thank Mr. EHLERS and Mr. GINGREY for Today the members and supporters of the markable and exemplifies the American their extensive input in developing this bill and League of Women Voters, Eden Area have dream. Born to Italian immigrants, Ernest and my Democratic colleagues for incorporating come together to celebrate not only their 50 his brother Julio, took just $5,900 in savings our priorities into this bipartisan legislation. I year anniversary, but also their permanent and and a winemaking pamphlet from the Modesto look forward to working on this bill with all of positive impact on our community. On this Public Library, and from this modest start built my colleagues on the Science and Technology very special day, I join all of them in thanking the world’s second-largest winery. He foresaw Committee. and saluting the League of Women Voters the potential for the California wine industry f Eden Area Chapter for their profound contribu- and relied upon smart ideas and hard work to tions to California’s 9th Congressional District, build an incredibly successful business that HONORING THE LEAGUE OF our country and our world. today serves as an industry model. Today, the WOMEN VOTERS, EDEN AREA f Gallo Winery is an important driver of northern California’s regional economy, providing good HON. BARBARA LEE A TRIBUTE TO SOL LEWITT jobs for 4,600 families. OF CALIFORNIA But Ernest’s lifetime contribution to Cali- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. JOE COURTNEY fornia and the Nation went beyond his busi- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 OF CONNECTICUT ness achievements. As he became more suc- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cessful, Ernest gave back to the community Ms. LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Tuesday, April 17, 2007 where he grew up. Ernest Gallo’s personal honor the Eden Area chapter of the League of generosity is demonstrated by such endeavors Women Voters (LWVEA). Throughout its ex- Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is an as the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto traordinary history, LWVEA has been known honor and privilege to celebrate the life of Sol and the Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research for promoting respect for individuals, valuing LeWitt, one of America’s greatest artists and a Center at the University of California, San diversity, and empowering communities resident of Connecticut’s Second District. Sol Francisco. These important institutions stand through civic engagement. This year LWVEA died last week on Sunday, April 8, 2007. as a reminder of Ernest Gallo’s life and his celebrates 50 years of service through encour- Sol lived a distinguished and accomplished spirit. aging the informed and active participation of life. After earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts de- I hope all of my colleagues will join me in individuals in government. gree from Syracuse University, and bravely supporting this resolution and honoring the life The League of Women Voters was first or- serving in the Korean War, Sol spent much of and memory of Ernest Gallo. ganized on February 14, 1920 in an effort to his early life studying art at the New York City unite organizations who believed in the School of Visual Arts and working at the Mu- f League’s principles. The goal of this collabo- seum of Modern Art. While in New York, Sol rative effort was to develop and codify legisla- began what would later become a flourishing NATIONAL BREAST AND CERVICAL tion and public policy that protected future ad- and influential career as an artist. CANCER EARLY DETECTION PRO- vocacy groups and promoted voter education Sol is best known for his work with drawing GRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT throughout the electorate. and sculpting two and three-dimensional OF 2007 The League prevailed in implementing legis- works. His exhibitions have been shown all lation that addressed labor, social security and over the world in the most prestigious of mu- SPEECH OF social justice concerns pertaining to woman’s seums, including the New York Museum of rights. Specifically, the League urged legisla- Modern Art, Chicago Museum of Contem- HON. BETTY McCOLLUM tors to enact provisions for Federal aid for porary Art, San Francisco Museum of Modern OF MINNESOTA child care and maternal programs. In the Art, Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford, Whit- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1930’s, the League advocated successfully for ney Museum of American Art in New York, Tuesday, March 27, 2007 the enactment of the Social Security and Food Gemeentemuseum in The Hague, and the and Drug Acts. The League played an impor- Krunsthalle in Switzerland. He is frequently re- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speak- tant rule in transmuting hundreds of federal ferred to as one of the country’s most prolific er, I rise today in strong support of the Na- jobs from the Spoils System to the Civil Serv- artists and as someone who has helped shape tional Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detec- ice designation. Credit is owed to the League the modern art movement. tion Program Reauthorization Act. for establishing the United Nations pursuant to Given all of Sol’s significant life accomplish- Increasing access to cancer screening for World War II. Later, the League was recog- ments, he was an exceptionally humble man women at risk is an essential part of pre- nized by the United Nations as being a non- who was loved by those around him. His wife venting deaths from breast and cervical can- governmental organization. Carol was especially devoted, and is an ex- cers. However, unfortunately, women with The Eden Area group, like the national or- ceptionally caring and compassionate indi- fewer resources and women of color, who are ganization, is a nonpartisan political organiza- vidual. disproportionately uninsured or underinsured, tion whose mission is to build citizen participa- I rise today to salute the life and accom- are significantly less likely to have access to tion in the democratic process. The League of plishments of Sol LeWitt and join Members in preventative screenings such as mammo- Women Voters, Eden Area group strives to praying for his family. He will be missed by all. grams and Pap tests. educate policymakers and the general public f I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 1132, on important issues in the public interest at all which reauthorizes the National Breast and levels of government. LWVEA is committed to HONORING THE LIFE OF ERNEST Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program, studying community issues in an unbiased GALLO NBCCEDP, to improve access to screening manner, and achieving positive solutions to and diagnostic services for breast and cervical public policy issues through education and SPEECH OF cancers among underserved women. It also conflict management. HON. DORIS O. MATSUI authorizes increased funding for this lifesaving The Eden Area Chapter has made immeas- OF CALIFORNIA program. urable strides in furthering the nation’s demo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Since it was created in 1991, NBCCEDP cratic objectives. Some recent and notable has provided breast and cervical cancer achievements of the Eden Area Chapter’s Monday, April 16, 2007 screening services to more than 2.9 million work include sponsoring an Alameda County Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that uninsured and underinsured women. It has di- community forum on open government; writing the House of Representatives is considering agnosed more than 29,000 breast cancers, letters and newspaper articles in support of H. Con. Res. 88, a resolution honoring the life 94,000 precursor cervical lesions, and 1,800 state legislation on campaign finance reform; of Ernest Gallo. I am an original cosponsor of cervical cancers. H.R. 1132 renews our com- and promoting universal health care for all this resolution and a long-time admirer of Er- mitment to saving women’s lives through Californians. The LWVEA also has televised nest Gallo, who sadly passed away on March screening and early detection of breast and and moderated candidate forums for city, 6. cervical cancers. county and state candidates; provided trans- Ernest Gallo was a pioneer in the field of Ensuring that all women have access to lation services and ballot measure pros and winemaking and a generous philanthropist. He these vital health services must be a priority. cons; and conducted elections for homeowner was also a friend to me and my late husband, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting associations and other community groups. Congressman Robert Matsui. His story is re- this bill.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E750 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 IN HONOR OF THE GRADUATES OF of Hungarians in America. Mrs. Nicholas has held several hunger strikes to attract attention TEANECK’S 21ST CITIZEN POLICE long been active in the Warren branch of the to the plight of Cuban political prisoners, ACADEMY HRFA, currently serving as the Branch Man- Mr. Rodrı´guez Capote is one of the many ager. heroes of the peaceful Cuban democratic HON. SCOTT GARRETT Over the years, Mrs. Nicholas has been in- movement who are locked in the dungeons of volved in many charitable activities, among the dictatorship for their beliefs. These men OF NEW JERSEY them assembling care packages for troops and women are symbols of freedom and de- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES serving overseas, which she has done since mocracy, who will always be remembered Tuesday, April 17, 2007 the days of the Vietnam War. Over the past when freedom reigns again in Cuba. two years, she has helped deliver over 4,000 Madam Speaker, let me be very clear, the Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam brutal repression practiced by the tyranny in Speaker, I rise today to share with my col- cookies to the VA hospital in Brecksville, OH for the annual Join Hands Day. She is deeply Havana is incompatible with the democratic leagues the exemplary community policing values and the international law of our hemi- program conducted by the Township of Tea- involved in her church, helping to cook sau- sages to raise money for missions, organizing sphere. Mr. Rodrı´guez Capote is suffering in a neck and to congratulate the 41 citizens who dungeon because he believes in freedom, de- will graduate next month from Teaneck’s 21st a vacation bible school, as well as serving as both a deacon and an elder. mocracy and human rights. My Colleagues, Citizen Police Academy. we must demand the immediate and uncondi- I would like to commend Mrs. Nicholas on The program gives citizens the opportunity tional release of La´zaro Miguel Rodrı´guez Ca- her outstanding devotion the improvement of to experience first-hand the work and tech- pote and every prisoner of conscience in to- the lives of people, not only in her community niques of the Teaneck Police Department. For talitarian Cuba. eleven weeks, citizens participate in classroom but across the country and around the world. f activities, field trips to a prison and a medical f COMMEMORATING THE 85TH ANNI- examiner’s office, and hands-on exercises. ´ Students can gain a strong understanding and FREEDOM FOR LAZARO VERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF appreciation for the work that the police do RODRIGUEZ CAPOTE THE AMERICAN HELLENIC EDU- every day to keep our communities safe. Stu- CATIONAL PROGRESSIVE ASSO- dents can also gain the skills necessary to HON. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART CIATION help be eyes and ears in our communities, OF FLORIDA helping the police keep those neighborhoods SPEECH OF IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES safe. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY I commend the Police Department for taking OF NEW YORK the initiative to organize this program. Particu- Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES larly in our post-9/11 world, we know that an Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about Monday, April 16, 2007 active and alert citizenry is one of our best de- La´zaro Miguel Rodriguez Capote, a political fenses against terrorist and criminal behavior. prisoner in totalitarian Cuba. Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I also commend the 41 citizens who have Mr. Rodrı´guez Capote is a member of the I rise today in strong support of H. Con. Res. taken time from their busy personal and pro- Cuban Pro Human Rights Party and a peace- 71, legislation that I introduced, which com- fessional lives to participate in this program: ful pro-democracy activist in totalitarian Cuba. memorates the 85th Anniversary of the Amer- Sal Aliano, Kimberly Anderson, Shonita Badg- As an opponent of the tyrannical regime in ican Hellenic Educational Progressive Asso- er, Alan Barsamian, James Bennett, Jon-Mi- Havana, he has worked for basic human rights ciation. chael Bernal, Tiffany Blandford, Michael for the people of Cuba despite constant har- As a co-founder and co-chair of the Con- Bonanno, Giuseppe Casalinuovo, Angela assment and repression because he believes gressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues, I have Cespedes, Alba Coello, Mario Coello, Marva the Cuban people are entitled to basic human had a close working relationship with AHEPA. Coleman, Nancy Elsayed, David Fisher, Kevin rights and democracy; in other words, freedom The Nation’s largest and oldest association Frederick, John Hohnadel, Tiara Jonson, Cyn- from tyranny. of American citizens of Greek heritage and Philhellenes, AHEPA was founded on July 26, thia Johnson, Beverly Joseph, Chris On February 24, 1996, three U.S. citizens 1922, in Atlanta, Georgia, by eight visionary Kowalczyk, Gladis Lizardi, Tara Lizardi, Gina and a resident of Florida were assassinated Greek immigrants to combat bigotry and dis- Lampley, Celia Maldonado, Usman Malik, when two civilian Brothers to the Rescue air- crimination and help Greek immigrants assimi- Jahmilah Mansfield, Tara McVey, Mireilly craft, on a humanitarian mission, were de- late into American society. Meiss, Travara Morton, Sharde Mott, Avani stroyed in international airspace by Cuban Today, its mission is to promote the ancient Patel, Yoselin Perez, Flor Ramirez, Alba MiGs on the direct order of the Cuban dictator. Greek ideals of education, philanthropy, civic Ramos, Omer Savasci, Michael Schmitt, The downing of the Brothers to the Rescue responsibility, and family and individual excel- Andre Sousa, Jenene Taylor, Stacey Ann Wil- airplanes over international waters by the tyr- son, and Leslie Srolovits. lence through community service and vol- anny left an indelible impression on the con- unteerism. f sciences of Cuban pro-democracy activists Over its history, AHEPA has achieved re- and in countless millions throughout the world. TRIBUTE TO MARGARET NICHOLAS markable accomplishments. It has fostered Mr. Rodrı´guez Capote was one of the many American patriotism, sheltered the elderly, human rights activists in totalitarian Cuba who educated our youth, promoted Hellenic herit- HON. TIM RYAN sought to commemorate the tragic deaths of age, and advanced rapproachment in the OF OHIO these men but who was prohibited from dem- Eastern Mediterranean. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES onstrating by the tyranny. Although Mr. Additionally, AHEPA’s members exemplify Rodrı´guez Capote was threatened by state se- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 the American Dream. With their strong work curity thugs prior to his participation in peace- ethic, Greek-Americans have risen to become Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Madam Speaker, I rise ful demonstrations, he refused to allow his leaders in their respective professions, from today in recognition of Margaret Nicholas, a voice to be silenced. Consequently, he was government to business to the arts. member of the Hungarian Reformed Federa- wrongfully arrested on February 22, 2002 on Currently headed by Supreme President tion of America, Branch #227 in Warren, OH. trumped-up charges of ‘‘espionage and enemy Gus James, II, AHEPA has been a vehicle Mrs. Nicholas was named a Fraternal Most propaganda’’. through which this advancement has occurred Valuable Participant for the week of October Mr. Rodrı´guez Capote was summarily incar- in our society. 2, 2006. These Fraternal MVP’s embody a cerated and to this day languishes in gro- I want to thank Chairman WAXMAN and spirit of generosity, dedicating their time to the tesque subhuman conditions without having Ranking Member DAVIS for their support of betterment of their communities through their even been tried for a single crime. He is being this bill and for moving it through the Over- charitable endeavors. held indefinitely in a totalitarian dungeon, suf- sight and Government Reform Committee. I The HRFA was founded 110 years ago, with fering abhorrent conditions because he re- also want to acknowledge my fellow Caucus the mission to preserve, promote, and support fuses to accept the reality inflicted upon Cuba Co-Chair, Representative BILIRAKIS, for joining the cultural, religious, and linguistic traditions by the tyranny. Since his incarceration he has me in introducing this bill.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E751 TRIBUTE TO ZACH JOHNSON’S 2007 the Kennedy Center and the Pentagon. He is with pride and honor. His life’s work served as MASTERS TOURNAMENT VICTORY a member of the Air Force Art Program, the an inspiration to us all, and he will be deeply New York Society of Illustrators, and the missed. HON. DAVID LOEBSACK American Society of Aviation Artists. He is f also a past Vice President and Chairman of OF IOWA LIEUTENANT TODD JASON the Exhibition Committee of the American So- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES BRYANT POST OFFICE ciety of Aviation Artists. He is a Coast Guard Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Illustrator and has served as a member of the SPEECH OF Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, today, Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce Byers my colleagues and I from the Iowa delegation Bucks Fever Art Exhibition committee. HON. DAVID DREIER are introducing a resolution congratulating Madam Speaker, Mr. Cohen has proven OF CALIFORNIA Zach Johnson on his 2007 Masters Tour- himself to be both an accomplished artist and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nament victory. Zach Johnson is the first an upstanding citizen. His past service to the Monday, April 16, 2007 Iowan to win the Masters, and is only the sec- United States of America as an Army and Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a ond native born Iowan to win a major golf Coast Guard illustrator demonstrates his com- proud cosponsor of H.R. 988, the Lieutenant championship. As many Iowans will recall, mitment to his country, as does the work he Todd Jason Bryant Post Office Building Des- Jack Fleck won the 1955 U.S. Open Cham- still does in his community. Madam Speaker, ignation Act. Todd Bryant, a First Lieutenant in pionship at Olympic Club in San Francisco. such an exemplary model for society is sel- the United States Army, was killed in action on Zach has joined the ranks of golfs greatest dom found, and I rise today to honor Mr. October 31, 2003 when his Humvee encoun- champions, including Byron Nelson, Sam Cohen for his service and commend him for tered an explosive device on the road be- Snead, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Gary Play- his talent. tween Fallujah and Baghdad. He was 23 er, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Phil f years old. He is a recipient of the National De- Mickelson, and many others. fense Service Ribbon, the Purple Heart, the I’m particularly proud of Zach’s accomplish- IN HONOR OF JOHN JOSEPH Iraqi Freedom Medal, the Meritorious Service ments because he is a true Iowan, and from HAMMILL Medal and the Bronze Star. the 2nd District, which I represent. He was Bryant, a 2002 graduate of West Point, was born in Iowa City and raised in Cedar Rapids. HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. a member of Company C, 1st Battalion and Zach was a member of the Regis High OF NEW JERSEY 34th Armor Regiment of the 1st Infantry Divi- School golf team in Cedar Rapids. His talent IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sion at Fort Riley, Kansas. Todd Bryant was and dedication helped lead the team to an Tuesday, April 17, 2007 deployed to Iraq in September 2003, a few Iowa 4A State Golf Championship in 1992. He days after he married his wife Jenifer. also played on his Drake University golf team Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, I rise today Todd was born at the Long Beach Naval in Des Moines, there he helped lead the team to honor a true servant of New Jersey and the Hospital. Although he grew up in Riverside, he to three NCAA regional meets and two Mis- States, who devoted his life to the safety and attended La Canada High School, located in souri Valley championships. well being of his neighbors and community. La Canada-Flintridge, California, one of the Zach continued to impress in his early pro- John Joseph Hammill, a veteran of the United cities I am privileged to represent. While at La fessional career. He won his first PGA Tour States Navy, Highland Park Police Department Canada High, he participated in the band and event at the 2004 Bell South Classic and and the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, played for the Spartans football team. Todd qualified for the 2006 U.S. Ryder Cup team passed away on December 6, 2006 at the age came from a military family. His parents, Larry representing the U.S. as one of 12 golfers in of 59. and Linda, prior to both working at Jet Propul- Kildare, Ireland. Born on July 23, 1947 in Jersey City, Mr. sion Laboratory in La Canada-Flintridge, both On Sunday April 8, 2007, Zach Johnson Hammill moved to Carteret, New Jersey as a served as Captains in the U.S. Air Force. His showed great skill, patience and will. He with- teenager. After graduating from Carteret High older sister Tiffany is a fellow West Point grad- stood the challenge of the weather and of the School, Mr. Hammill enlisted in the United uate and his older brother Timothy is a U.S. course, and won the prestigious 2007 Masters States Navy and served in a military hospital Marine. Although Todd excelled at being a sol- Tournament. All of Iowa is proud of our home- in Yokohama, Japan until 1969. ider, he also had other interests. He volun- town success story. When Mr. Hammill returned home, he joined teered as a Congressional intern in Congress- man KEN CALVERT’s office and he spent a f the Highland Park Police Department, dutifully protecting his community for 8 years and at- summer participating in Service America at HONORING GIL COHEN FOR LIFE- taining the rank of Detective, First Grade. West Hills Elementary School in Bremerton, TIME ACHIEVEMENT IN THE VIS- Demonstrating exceptional knowledge and Washington in 2001. Learning more about UAL ARTS passion for traffic safety, Mr. Hammill trans- Todd’s interests and actions, one can not ferred to the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s come away without noting the extraordinary HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY Office in 1977, where he served as a detective impact he had on his friends, family and com- OF PENNSYLVANIA in the Fatal Accident Unit until his retirement munity. Today, his friends and family are still reminiscing about his humor, his love of In-N- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES from law enforcement in 1994. Mr. Hammill’s relentless commitment to pub- Out burgers and his charisma. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 lic service brought him out of a brief retirement Mr. Speaker, without question, Congress Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. to the Damon House Drug Rehabilitation Cen- and the American people will continue to Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an ex- ter in New Brunswick. Through hard work and honor and remember the men and women traordinary Eighth District resident. Mr. Gil dedication he ascended quickly through the who gave the ultimate sacrifice in this war. We Cohen has recently received the Bucks Coun- organization to the role of Assistant Director, hope this small act of memorializing Lieuten- ty Arts Award for his devotion and talent as an where he served in this capacity until retiring ant Todd Jason Bryant at the Rubidoux post artist. An exceptional aviation artist, Mr. Cohen in 2004. office honors his memory and serves as a re- is a member of many local art groups. While devoting his professional career to minder to those in the community of the re- As a young boy in Philadelphia, Mr. Cohen serving the public, Mr. Hammill was equally markable heroism of Todd and his family. became an expert in identifying the various unselfish with his personal time, working to f World War II planes flying overhead. He com- better his community through organizations TRIBUTE TO J. LLOYD ‘‘BUD’’ bined this knowledge with a love of history such as the New Jersey State Policeman’s JACOBS, JR. and a gift for painting, first as an artist with the Benevolent Association, Mothers Against United States Army in West Germany and Drunk Driving, the New Jersey Coalition later as a freelance artist. One of his greatest Against Impaired Driving, the Middlesex Coun- HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN OF CALIFORNIA accomplishments is a series of oil paintings ty Alcohol Association and as an AARP defen- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES depicting the Eighth Air Force during World sive driving instructor. War II. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Mr. Cohen has received a number of join me today in honoring the life of Mr. John Mr. WAXMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today awards for his work, and he has exhibited his Joseph Hammill. A caring family man, Mr. to recognize J. Lloyd ‘‘Bud’’ Jacobs, Jr., a re- paintings at the National Military Park system, Hammill served his community and country markable educator who is retiring from the Los

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E752 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) after ers surveyed had not calculated how much books focused on helping Asian Americans 38 years of service. money they will need for retirement; and addi- become more informed consumers. This pro- Bud Jacobs, who earned a Bachelor of Arts tionally, 37 percent of the workers said that gram will be available in Chinese, Korean, degree at the University of California, Berkeley Vietnamese, and English. they were not saving for retirement. From Freddie Mac has also been a leader in spon- and a Master of Arts degree from the Univer- these statistics and with the current status of soring a successful consumer awareness cam- sity of California, Los Angeles, began his ca- Social Security, I feel that it would be bene- paign to help consumers avoid predatory reer with LAUSD as an English teacher at Fre- ficial for many Americans to be educated on fi- lending practices. Don’t Borrow Trouble, is mont High School. He later worked as an in- nancial opportunities; including, but not limited a national award-winning campaign that structional advisor for Regional Administrative to, qualified cash and deferred arrangements. combines public education and counseling Region C-LAUSD and an as assistant prin- Thus, we must promote nation-wide financial services to help homeowners avoid lending cipal at Bret Harte Intermediate School, John literacy programs to help citizens seize such practices that strip away their home’s eq- Muir Middle School, and Venice High School. uity. Pioneered in Boston by Mayor Thomas opportunities. M. Menino and the Massachusetts Commu- From 1992–2000 Bud Jacobs was principal In closing, our Nation’s expanding consumer nity & Banking Council (MCBC), Freddie of Venice High School, which Newsweek Mag- balance and the economic fears of many Mac has expanded the campaign to commu- azine rated as one of the top 100 high schools Americans can both be assuaged through nities nationwide to almost 50 cities and in America. Venice High School also received H.R. 273. I am delighted that many of my fel- states throughout the country. These cam- presidential recognition for 2 National Science low members are already in favor of this reso- paigns have helped inform more than 100,000 Bowl championships. Since 2000, he has lution, and I encourage my other colleagues to consumers across the U.S. served as director of instructional support follow suit. Freddie Mac commends you for your bring- services for LAUSD’s high school programs. ing this resolution to the House of Rep- f resentatives to continue to draw awareness Bud Jacobs has been honored as an out- SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND to the need for financial literacy and we are standing administrator by the Association of grateful for your leadership of the Financial California School Administrators and the Cali- IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY Literacy Caucus. fornia Council for the Social Studies. MONTH Sincerely, In addition to his career with LAUSD, Bud KIRSTEN JOHNSON-OBEY, Jacobs served as a fellow with the Institute for SPEECH OF Director, Congressional Relations. Learning at the University of Pittsburgh and HON. RUBE´N HINOJOSA with the Harvard Principals’ Center. He has STATEMENT BY FORUM CEO DONALD L. EVANS OF TEXAS ON FINANCIAL LITERACY RESOLUTION been a trustee for the Los Angeles Edu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cational Alliance Reform Now (LEARN) and WASHINGTON, DC.—Financial Services Monday, April 16, 2007 Forum CEO Donald L. Evans issued the president of UCLA’s School of Education following statement on H. Res. 273, a resolu- Alumni Support Group (EUCLAN). Mr. HINOJOSA. Mr. Speaker, I submit the tion supporting Financial Literacy Month: Bud Jacobs has earned the profound re- following letters regarding H. Res. 273, Sup- ‘‘Financial assets—stock, bonds, mutual spect and affection of students, teachers and porting the Goals and Ideals of Financial Lit- finds, and insurance products—are powerful administrators within LAUSD. The Los Ange- eracy Month. tools for building wealth and providing for a les community owes him a debt of gratitude FREDDIE MAC, secure future. With a record number of for his dedication to our students and tireless McLean, VA, April 16, 2007. Americans approaching retirement, financial ´ commitment to educational excellence. I con- Hon. RUBEN HINOJOSA, literacy is more important than ever. Rep. House of Representatives, Ruben Hinojosa and Rep. Judy Biggert are gratulate him on his extraordinary contribu- Washington, DC. bringing appropriate focus to the goal of pro- tions and wish him good health and happiness DEAR CONGRESSMAN HINOJOSA: On behalf of viding a better financial education to all as he embarks on this new chapter in his life. Freddie Mac, I am writing to express our Americans. We appreciate their efforts to f support for the bi-partisan Congressional raise awareness of financial literacy and resolution (H.R. 273) supporting April as ‘‘Fi- fully support their efforts.’’ SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND nancial Literacy Month,’’ cosponsored by 115 Last April, the Financial Services Forum IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY Members of the House of Representatives. released a survey finding that two in five (42 MONTH As a secondary mortgage market entity, percent) of Americans say they know only Freddie Mac has made home possible for one some, very little, or not much about how to in six home buyers and more than four mil- effectively manage their long-term personal HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON lion renters in America. We greatly under- finances and retirement security. The poll OF TEXAS stand the important role financial literacy also found that 60 percent of young people IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES plays in obtaining and maintaining good (between the ages of 18 and 34) say they do Tuesday, April 17, 2007 credit. Credit records affect everything from not have the knowledge they need to effec- renting an apartment to buying a home, pay- tively manage their personal finances and re- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. ing for a college education to purchasing a tirement security. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in complete support car. Poor credit histories limit the ability of The Financial Services Forum has also of the Financial Literacy Month Resolution many consumers to attain financial security, issued a report detailing the significant com- which addresses the public’s lack of knowl- particularly those in under-served commu- mitment of Forum member firms to finan- edge of basic financial principles and aims to nities—including low-income consumers, mi- cial literacy programs. norities and immigrants. Without good cred- A copy of that report and the survey are lessen our Nation’s already enormous con- it, it’s difficult to save money, become a available on our web site at sumer debt. homeowner, and accumulate wealth. www.financialservicesforum.org. According to recent studies, many young In response to the need to increase finan- Americans seem to be lacking personal financial literacy and awareness, Freddie Mac de- AMERICA’S COMMUNITY BANKERS, cial management skills. The facts indicate that veloped the CreditSmart, and CreditSmart April 11, 2007. for nearly a decade now, high school seniors Espan˜ ol consumer education curricula. Hon. RUBE´ N HINOJOSA, have possessed an insufficient knowledge of CreditSmart is designed to help consumers House of Representatives, personal finance. Attempting to address this understand, build, and maintain good credit. Washington, DC. Since its launch in 2000, the CreditSmart Hon. JUDY BIGGERT, gap in knowledge and to prevent future finan- program has reached in excess of one million House of Representatives, cial blunders, 16 states are requiring basic fi- people through its outreach network of Com- Washington, DC. nancial education in their high schools. I munity Based organizations, conventions, DEAR REPRESENTATIVES HINOJOSA AND strongly believe that, as a result of such ef- initiatives and web access. BIGGERT: On behalf of America’s Community forts, many young citizens will become finan- (www.freddiemac.com/creditsmart) Bankers (ACB) and its over 1000 member in- cially responsible. This will not only enlighten CreditSmart is used in numerous commu- stitutions, I am writing to express our strong their personal lives, but ultimately combat our nities across America and is taught to con- support for H. Res. 273, a Resolution to sup- growing consumer debt. sumers by college instructors, nonprofit port the goals and ideals of Financial Lit- counseling agency staff, consumer and com- eracy Month. ACB commends you both for Along with America’s youth, many adults are munity group staff, police officers, employ- your ongoing leadership and commitment to also seemingly incapable of properly man- ers, lenders, real estate professionals and increasing awareness of financial literacy in aging their finances. It is my understanding mortgage brokers. Just two months ago, the United States, and we are also pleased that, three years ago, a Retirement Con- Freddie Mac launched CreditSmart Asian a that a similar Resolution, S. Res. 126, has fidence Survey found that 42 percent of work- new three-part series of multilingual guide- been approved by the United States Senate.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E753 The American financial services system said NAAHL President and CEO Judy Ken- This year, Mr. Jerry Howard will serve as often presents a maze of decisions, and ACB nedy. ‘‘Our members have helped lead efforts the American Legion Department of Virginia has always made financial literacy a top pri- to increase financial education nationwide, commander. A 22 year veteran of the U.S. Air ority to help consumers choose wisely. ACB’s especially for low- and moderate-income per- members are dedicated to strengthening sons.’’ Force, Jerry has been a member of the Amer- America’s communities by meeting the fi- ‘‘For example, NAAHL members ican Legion for 23 years. He has previously nancial needs of consumers fairly and effi- ShoreBank and NeighborWorks America, in served as Post 364 commander, 16th District ciently. As the responsibility for individuals partnership with the federal banking regu- commander and Department of Virginia vice to manage their own finances increases, so lators, have pioneered programs and ap- commander. does our responsibility to provide individuals proaches which have resulted in greater fi- Ms. Marcia Wheatley will serve as the from every economic background with the nancial literacy in underserved commu- American Legion Auxiliary Department of Vir- tools they need to navigate their financial nities,’’ Kennedy said. ‘‘We commend Reps. Ruben Hinojosa (D– ginia president. A 12 year member of the environment. ACB is committed to ensuring American Legion Auxiliary, Marcia has served that all Americans have fair and equitable Texas) and Judy Biggert (R–Ill.) for intro- access to credit, and that consumers have ducing this resolution that supports the as Unit 364 president and 16th District presi- the necessary skills to make wise financial goals and ideals of Financial Literacy dent. decisions. Month.’’ Together, Jerry and Marcia will represent The goals expressed in H. Res. 273 recog- The resolution has more than 100 cospon- Virginia at state and national veteran events nize many of ACB’s core principles, and we sors in the House of Representatives. A simi- where they will promote programs that benefit look forward to continuing to work with lar resolution, S. Res. 126, has been approved veterans, troops, and children. Also, they will by the Senate. both of you, along with the House Financial travel here, to Washington DC, to meet with and Economic Literacy Caucus, to make financial literacy a priority of the 110th Con- Hon. RUB´ EN HINOJOSA, members of Congress to discuss legislation gress. House of Representatives, needed to provide for the health and well Sincerely, Washington, DC. being of troops and veterans. EAR EPRESENTATIVE INOJOSA ROBERT R. DAVIS, D R H : The Other recent officer selections include Vir- Executive Vice President and Managing Texas Credit Union League is pleased to sup- ginia Department Historian Barbara Barnes, Director, Government Relations. port House Resolution 273. As you know, the Auxiliary National Security Chairman Dianne Texas Credit Union League through our Cabot, Post 364 Commander William Moriarity CONSUMER BANKERS ASSOCIATION, Foundation supports financial literacy in a big way. Project NEFE—a statewide collabo- and Unit 364 President Raye Ferrington. Arlington, VA. These individuals bring a stellar record of ac- Re H. Res. 273 rative initiative to bring the accredited High School Financial Planning Program along complishment to these institutions, and the ´ Hon. RUBEN HINOJOSA, with comprehensive training to schools American Legion and American Legion Auxil- House of Representatives, across Texas—is one of the primary missions Washington, DC. iary will benefit greatly from their experience. of our Foundation. All material and training Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to Hon. JUDY BIGGERT, is offered free of charge. House of Representatives, The NEFE curriculum meets the learning take this opportunity to thank all the men and Washington, DC. objectives and standards approved by the women who serve the American Legion and DEAR REPRESENTATIVES HINOJOSA AND Texas Education Agency and State Board of the American Legion Auxiliary. Their tireless BIGGERT: The membership of the Consumer Education to meet the requirement. Credit efforts on behalf of the community, state and Bankers Association has taken a leadership unions are all about people helping people, nation deserve our highest praise. I commend role in providing financial education, offer- and there is no greater way to demonstrate and congratulate all of these officers on their ing instruction in every field of personal fi- that commitment than credit unions work- nance, including home ownership, fore- selection to these positions, and wish them ing with teachers and providing the volun- further success as they continue to work for closure prevention, credit card usage, basic teer efforts to train our children in financial budgeting and a host of other topics relevant matters. We have been extremely pleased our Nation’s veterans. to the needs of our customers. CBA has found and excited on how our Foundation, Texas f that such efforts have helped produce knowl- Cooperative Extension and NEFE have edgeable consumers with the financial skills worked together to deliver this free edu- HONORING DALE BROWN needed for the responsible use of the prod- cation to our younger generation. ucts and services available today from our On behalf of the seven million credit union HON. RON LEWIS member banks. members concerned with the issue of finan- OF KENTUCKY It is because of the intensive and extensive cial literacy, we applaud you and your many IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES efforts to educate their customers that our cosponsors. We look forward to joining our membership welcomes your efforts to recog- voice with yours in the cause of financial lit- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 nize the importance of financial literacy by eracy. Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Madam Speaker, I promoting Financial Literacy Month Sincerely, rise today to congratulate Warren County through H. Res. 273. We believe the Resolu- DICK ENSWEILER, School District Superintendent Dale Brown for tion is a welcome part of the campaign so CEO/President, Texas Credit Union League. that everyone is provided the tools to navi- winning the Kentucky School Board Associa- gate the sometimes complex waters of to- f tion’s 2007 F.L. Dupree Outstanding Super- day’s economy. HONORING AMERICAN LEGION intendent Award. We congratulate you for highlighting the POST 364 AND AMERICAN LEGION Mr. Brown was named superintendent of the commitment to financial literacy. CBA AUXILIARY UNIT 364 Warren County School System in 2000. The pledges our full support to promote the goals school district has flourished under his stew- of Financial Literacy Month and offers our ardship throughout the past 7 years. Among assistance to the Congress and our commu- HON. TOM DAVIS his many accomplishments, Brown is particu- nities in creating a better-educated popu- OF VIRGINIA lation of financial services consumers. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES larly noted for maintaining the school system’s Please do not hesitate to contact us if you budget while overseeing an ambitious $4 mil- feel we can be of further assistance in your Tuesday, April 17, 2007 lion technology overhaul that has outfitted endeavors to promote financial education. Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speak- every classroom with an ACTIV board. MARCIA Z. SULLIVAN, er, I rise today to honor the officers and mem- Superintendent Brown has also won wide- Vice President and Director, bers of American Legion Post 364, American spread praise for his efforts to increase energy Government Relations. Legion Auxiliary Unit 364, and all national conservation; creating an energy education WASHINGTON, Apr. 4 2007.—The National As- members of the American Legion and Amer- program and overseeing the Commonwealth’s sociation of Affordable Housing Lenders ican Legion Auxiliary. first energy efficient school in Alvaton, KY. (NAAHL) strongly supports the bipartisan The American Legion is a community-serv- These initiatives have saved the school district congressional resolution (H. Res. 273) desig- ice organization, made up of patriotic, mutual- over $2 million in energy costs over the last nating April as ‘‘Financial Literacy Month,’’ help, war-time veterans. The American Legion three years, demonstrating a remarkable local to increase awareness about the importance Auxiliary is a women’s patriotic service organi- commitment to our nation’s quest to promote of financial education in the United States zation, created to assist the American Legion. and the serious consequences that can result energy independence. from a lack of understanding about personal Through community service programs, both of More than 23 different native languages are finances. these fine institutions have made a great im- spoken by Warren County School District stu- ‘‘NAAHL represents America’s leaders in pact on our community and to the veterans liv- dents. Mr. Brown has created a new com- moving private capital to those in need,’’ ing in our region. prehensive language program for limited

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 English proficient students uniquely tailored to 273—Supporting the goals and ideals of Fi- to attend the internationally recognized their individual needs. nancial Literacy Month. Sundance Film Festival to meet and network It is my great privilege to recognize Mr. Dale Have you seen the headlines recently? Only with Producers and Directors. Brown today before the entire U.S. House of yesterday, it was reported that mortgage de- The famous actor and filmmaker Orson Representatives for his excellent work in pub- faults are at an all time high in California. Ac- Welles once said that, ‘‘A film is never really lic education. His dedication to the Warren cording to one report, 46,760 borrowers de- good unless the camera is an eye in the head County School District is felt by students, faulted between January and March. That’s an of a poet.’’ The students at the Film School of teachers, and administrators alike. He is an increase of 23.1 percent relative to the pre- San Antonio are poets that through film find outstanding citizen worthy of our collective vious quarter, and 148 percent compared with their expression. Through their engagement honor and appreciation. the same period a year ago. with the program and the assistance of their f In another story, I read that foreclosures of dedicated teachers, the students at the Film School of San Antonio are able to give their THE VIRGINIA TECH SHOOTINGS homes in California were 11,033 in the first quarter. That’s an 81.5 percent increase over poetic visions a reality. last quarter. I extend my most sincere congratulations to HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN I’m concerned about the effect that this is the program director George F. Ozuna; the OF RHODE ISLAND having on families in my home state. I’m also school instructors: Pete Barcenez, Dagoberto ´ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES concerned about the effect that this is having Patlan, Daniel Garcia and Sharon Shuler; the Tuesday, April 17, 2007 on the economy of the nation as a whole. school’s students: Briana Baiz, Mercedes Casarez, Krysten Casias, Samuel Garcia, Mi- Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, it is with While it is impossible to say that this crisis chael Levine, Felix Perez and Raul Servin; profound sorrow that I rise today to express could have been avoided, we can certainly do and their families. Their work is inspiring. I am my deepest sympathy to everyone in the Vir- more to shield consumers from its worst ef- proud of their success and hope that film con- ginia Tech community, and to all of their fects. One of those ways is to promote greater tinues to bring them much personal satisfac- shocked and grieving loved ones. I know I financial literacy. This bill, H. Res. 273, is an important tool tion. also join millions around the nation who are at VAN JUNIOR SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL, a loss to fully comprehend yesterday’s shoot- for increasing awareness, and points the way Van, WV, February 22, 2007. ings on the Virginia Tech campus that took 33 forward toward creating greater financial lit- Congressman NICK RAHALL, lives, including the shooter. I also pray for the eracy in our communities. Rayburn House Office Building, quick and full recovery of all those who were The potential benefits of greater financial lit- Washington, DC. injured. eracy are almost incalculable. We can be sure CONGRESSMAN RAHALL: We are the Senior I am also profoundly saddened to learn that that greater awareness and understanding of Civics class of Van Jr/Sr High School in Daniel O’Neil, of Lincoln, RI, was a victim of finances will lead to higher savings rates. It Boone County, West Virginia. We watched President Bush’s State of the Union Address yesterday’s shootings. I join his family and the will allow consumers to gain access to less and the Democratic Response. We are writ- people of Rhode Island in mourning this great expensive and less risky loans. And it will pro- ing to you to discuss our concerns within the loss. tect people from getting into a precarious fi- government today. Our Civics class consists Madam Speaker, every life that was lost nancial situation without their understanding of all male students, who (if the draft is en- yesterday was taken too early. Every life taken the consequences. abled) would be sent to fight for a cause we had a history, a family and dreams for the fu- I urge my colleagues to support this legisla- don’t understand. ture. In the coming days, these lives will be tion, and for us to join together to not only pro- Our primary concern is the war in Iraq. We identified, and we will hear many terrible sto- are in favor of fighting terrorism, but Amer- mote the goals of financial literacy, but also, to ica went into Iraq under false pretenses. We ries about what happened in those buildings. make them a reality. now know that Iraq had nothing to do with We will also hear about heroic acts in the face f the attack on 9/11. We believe that the rea- of unimaginable terror. As a nation, we must son we went to Iraq is to gain a stronghold find solace in each other and reach out to TRIBUTE TO THE FILM SCHOOL OF on the oil fields. We are trading blood for oil. those that need us the most. SAN ANTONIO We have strong feeling that America should As long as I have been in public service, I have never invaded Iraq because our presence have tried to answer the question, ‘‘how can HON. CIRO D. RODRIGUEZ there is breeding more terrorism around the we make our country safer than it is right world. We are giving terrorists a common foe OF TEXAS to retaliate against. We are incubating more now?’’ Unfortunately, yesterday’s events IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hatred from other terrorists and now giving showed us all how much work needs to be Tuesday, April 17, 2007 them a reason to unite hence the statement, done. While many questions remain, we do ‘‘The enemy of my enemy is my ally’’. know that yesterday marked the deadliest Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Madam Speaker, I rise We highly oppose the sending of 2l,000 more mass shooting in U.S. history. I believe it is today to celebrate and recognize the accom- soldiers to Iraq. Instead, we must start our job in Congress to make sure an incident plishments of The Film School of San Antonio, bringing soldiers home, because who is going to protect us while our soldiers are fighting like this never happens again. As we await the a magnet program on the campus of findings of the investigation, we must look to overseas? Some soldiers are serving their Harlandale High School in the Harlandale third tour of duty against their will, com- our laws and security procedures to make Independent School District of San Antonio, pliments of the Backdoor Draft. America sure that they are protecting our citizens. I Texas. should have never gone further than Afghan- also hope we can learn from this tragedy will Utilizing a rigorous, sequential and cus- istan. We have forgotten about Osama Bin spur a national discussion on how we can re- tomized curriculum, the Film School of San Laden in our rush to topple Saddam Hussein. duce gun violence. Antonio provides first hand experience in the All we are doing right now is debating while our soldiers are loosing their lives. Let Today, let us reflect on the lives we have so collaborative arts of filmmaking, screenwriting, senselessly and tragically lost. May we keep us quit talking and do something! Young animation and drama. Additionally, the film lives and futures depend on your actions. them and their loved ones in our thoughts and school prepares students for job opportunities, Please take into consideration the lives you prayers, and may their memory live on for- scholarships and college admissions. With a can save instead of destroy. ever. strong foundation in media, students also Another of our concerns is the way our f compete in national contests and film festivals. economy is being affected by the war. Just The Film School of San Antonio and its stu- think of what 2.9 trillion dollars could have SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND done for this nation. Then look at this fig- IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY dents have earned a wealth of awards and ac- ure, oil companies are making an annual MONTH colades. In 2005, the program received an profit of 39.5 billion dollars while many peo- Emmy nomination for their film ‘‘La Corrida,’’ a ple in this nation are suffering in poverty. SPEECH OF documentary on the plight of illegal immigrants They are suffering because in today’s society in ‘‘No Mans Land’’ just north of the U.S./Mexi- one cannot support a family on the min- HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ can border. In 2006, the program’s student imum wage of $5.15 an hour. Only three per- OF CALIFORNIA produced film Mocha, made history when it cent of Americans today are financially well IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES off. The outsourcing of good paying Amer- won a non-student category Emmy Award. Monday, April 16, 2007 ican jobs is causing our unemployment rate This is the first high school to be able to claim to rise. If this trend continues, poverty will Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. Mr. this achievement in Texas. Most recently, the become more common and our society will Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. school was invited by the Sundance Institute become even more unstable.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E755 The money spent on the Iraq war has put HONORING THE 25TH ANNIVER- missed out on the experience of performing a tremendous amount of pressure on the re- SARY OF THE METROPOLITAN with similarly motivated individuals. I say thank cipients of Social Security. Many older YOUTH SYMPHONY OF ARIZONA you and well done. Americans have to choose between medica- WAYNE ROEDERER, MUSICAL DI- tion and food because they cannot afford both. Add to this the fact that thousands of RECTOR f Americans still do not have any health insurance. HON. HARRY E. MITCHELL TRIBUTE TO THE LADY HORNETS BASKETBALL TEAM OF HARRIS- America has become greedy and corrupt. OF ARIZONA STOWE STATE UNIVERSITY When did America stop caring about the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES common people? The Civics Class of Van High School wants the voice of the common Tuesday, April 17, 2007 man to be heard in Washington, D.C. We are Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I rise HON. WM. LACY CLAY the future of this great nation and our rep- today to honor the 25th anniversary of the OF MISSOURI resentatives must consider this while debat- Metropolitan Youth Symphony of Arizona. This IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing the course our country will take, not is a remarkable milestone for any organiza- only in Iraq, but also at home. tion, but especially for a volunteer-run, non- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Sincerely, profit one. As a long-time supporter of the The Senior Civics Class of Van Jr.-Sr. arts, I must take this occasion to commend Mr. CLAY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to High School: Justin Gent, Christopher honor the Lady Hornets Basketball Team of Boulet, Robert Burnett, Joshua Cook, them on a job well done, and commend them Jason Hoosier, Matthew Kuhn, Terry for undertaking this ambitious endeavor. Harris-Stowe State University for their crown- Legg, Gregory O’Dell, Jonathan Let me tell you a little bit about MYS. In the ing achievement on March 3, 2007 when they Simms, Robert Valle, Scott White, spring of 1982, a group of interested parents became the first-ever Lady Hornets team to Kasey Whitman. and music educators from the East Valley clench the American Midwest Conference— began exploring the potential for developing a AMC—title. f youth orchestra. Their goal was to provide a To win this historic title the team, led by challenging program of excellence in orches- Head Coach Christopher Lewis, soundly de- RECOGNIZING JONATHON OTTO tral music for your school musicians through feated the Columbia College Cougars by a FOR HIS EFFORTS IN THE the ninth grade. The first Metropolitan Youth score of 78–58 on the Cougars’ home court in AFTERMATH OF HURRICANE Symphony season was launched that same Columbia, Mo. To put the score in perspective KATRINA year as more than 150 youngsters participated and to appreciate the tenacity of the squad, a in the September auditions. The gala premiere brief recap of the victory might be appreciated. HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY concert, on November 10, 1982, featured two Trailing by six points early in the first half, string orchestras and one full symphony or- OF PENNSYLVANIA the Lady Hornets worked a 40 percent shoot- chestra. ing effort into a halftime advantage of 36–29. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The growth of Metropolitan Youth Sym- They opened the second half with one of their phony has been impressive. Now in its 25th Tuesday, April 17, 2007 patented runs, extending their lead to 13. season, the 267 members of MYS, under the They continued to increase their field-goal per- Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. direction of Wayne Roederer, musical director/ centage to 51 percent and their three-point Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. principal conductor; Lew Felton, associate success to 43 percent. Senior guard Laniya Jonathon Otto for his efforts in the aftermath conductor; and Amy Bennett, Division III con- Stevens led the Hornets with 23 points and of Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Otto has raised ductor, are divided into three string orchestras junior guard Chanel Ross added a double- money for and helped rebuild the Mississippi and one full symphonic orchestra. Members double with 21 points and 10 steals. Both Ste- town of Bay St. Louis, which was decimated in attend weekly rehearsals at Westwood High vens and Ross received First Team All-Con- Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Otto has been nomi- School and perform in at least four formal conference honors, while Kanisha Pettis received nated for the Bucks County Chamber of Com- certs each season. Over the years, MYS or- an All-Conference honorable mention. Stevens merce’s 2007 Ambassador Award. chestras have been invited to perform in a va- received another honor when her number, 20, Mr. Otto’s career with Penn Valley Contrac- riety of locations including Phoenix Symphony was retired by the school. Hall, the Mesa Amphitheatre, Fiesta Mall, tors, Inc. as a construction superintendent and With their victory—their sixth consecutive estimator, along with his passion for helping Disneyland and Washington, DC. On June 13, 1993, members of Division I, the full sym- win—the Lady Hornets moved on to play in others, made him the perfect candidate to the National Association of Intercollegiate Ath- spearhead fundraising efforts in the aftermath phony orchestra, received the honor of performing at New York City’s famed Carnegie letics Tournament or the NAIA, also a first for of Hurricane Katrina for the Bucks/Mont the team. Katrina Relief Project. Hall. The gala 25th anniversary concert will be performed at the Ikeda Auditorium of the Mesa Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize Madam Speaker, Mr. Otto has truly risen to Arts Center at 7 p.m. on April 28, 2007, with the Lady Hornets Basketball Team of Harris- the challenge. He raised more than $2 million alumni performing with Division I. Stowe State University—Jamira Easley, Dionn and personally oversaw reconstruction efforts. In addition to orchestra performance oppor- Jackson, Chareka Terry, Dominique Allen, He stepped up and coordinated the collection tunities, MYS sponsors wind sectionals, a re- K’Vonn Brittingham, Tawanda Barns, Briranda of materials, volunteers, and transportation, cital series, Division I weekend retreat in Pres- Griffin, Kanisha Pettis, Erica Anderson, Chanel supervising the construction of a brand-new cott, a scholarship competition and the MYS Ross, Carmon Weaver, Laniya Stevens, Kim- daycare center in Bay St. Louis. Fiddlers. berly Lang, Valarie Mason, Amy Williams, Beyond the Katrina Relief Project, Mr. Otto The mission of the Metropolitan Youth Sym- Stephanie Roberts, Tamara Black, Shelia has served the community in a variety of phony has always been to educate young in- Walker and Marvis Jackson—for becoming the ways, including acting as Treasure and Direc- strumental musicians through the ninth grade first team to earn the American Midwest Con- tor of the Phillips Mill Community Association, in the art of orchestral performance through ference title. From a 73-game losing streak a trustee of the Newtown Friends School, treas- the use of the world’s finest orchestral music few years ago to champions today, the Lady urer and clerk of the Finance Committee, and to develop character, discipline, leadership, Hornets have become a shining example of director of the Heritage Conservancy. cultural awareness, and a strong commitment what commitment, perseverance and hard Madam Speaker, Mr. Otto is an inspiration to excellence. This enables MYS to contribute work can accomplish. They are a force to be for us all. When a community was in trouble, to the East Valley’s rich cultural heritage and reckoned with and the pride of the school and he jumped in and began rebuilding. On behalf create a higher level of appreciation for the the entire St. Louis community. In their honor of the residents of the Eighth District, of Bay performing arts. I ask my congressional colleagues to join me St. Louis and of all Americans, I congratulate This occasion marks not only the 25th anni- in honoring the team, their coach, Christopher Mr. Otto on his commendable efforts with the versary of a vibrant organization, but the re- Lewis, Athletic Director Richard Fanning, Uni- Katrina Relief Project. In a stunning display of tirement of Musical Director and Principal Con- versity President Dr. Henry Givens, Jr., and good will and humanity, he has reminded us ductor Wayne Roederer. Without him, this an- the entire university. With such continued of the important things in life and the value of niversary would not have been reached, and dedication and hard work, a national title could community. hundreds of young musicians would have be in the Hornets’ nest in the near future.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E756 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 IN RECOGNITION OF JAMES W. fenders in Juvenile Court; a crisis response paramount and he has earned the privilege of MURRAY team for short-term assistance to victims of spending warm winters in Florida. The rec- domestic violence throughout the county, a ognition offered him in the tribute describes HON. BRAD ELLSWORTH three-part intervention in the local schools to this incredible man among men as ‘‘a most OF INDIANA educate schoolchildren about the effects of deserving attorney and Prosecutor, as well as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES crime on victims, offenders, and the commu- a uniquely blessed and courageous human nity known as the Victims Forum; Kids’ Space being. ‘Lest we forget!’ is the testimony in- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 for children of female victims of violent crime scribed on the Toledo Police Memorial. It also Mr. ELLSWORTH. Madam Speaker, I rise who could not appear in court without this free perfectly describes Anthony G. Pizza, mentor today to recognize the outstanding achieve- child watch service; Suburban Courts’ Serv- and friend to all of us privileged enough to ments of one of my constituents, James W. ices to provide support and advocacy for vic- know him.’’ Murray of Oakland City, IN. For the past 33 tims in the Maumee and Sylvania court sys- It is wonderful that the Advocates for Vic- years, Murray has served as president of Oak- tems; and Victims Forum Peacemakers, a tims and Justice, Inc. has chosen to honor land City University. During his remarkable school-based program which teaches children these two amazing people while they are able tenure at OCU, the school has undergone the skills to combat bullying. to enjoy the recognition and know how much massive and exciting improvements. In an effort to fully address the challenge of they mean to the people of our community. I When Murray arrived on campus, the school funding for all of these services, Joan sought offer my personal congratulations to both Joan had only 324 students. Today the total enroll- the establishment of a non-profit foundation. Coleman and Tony Pizza as they receive this ment exceeds 2,300, and OCU has become Advocates for Victims and Justice, Inc. was in- honor, and my own heartfelt thank you to each the second largest employer in Gibson Coun- corporated in 1994 to help retain and expand for courageous and selfless service. ty, IN. President Murray also oversaw OCU victims’ services to meet the ever-increasing f gaining full accreditation and university status. needs of the community. Private donations re- The school’s main campus has undergone ex- main a vital source of funding for the pro- CONCURRENT RESOLUTION ON tensive facility expansion during his tenure, grams which Joan worked so tirelessly and THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR and as an advocate for fiscal responsibility, I passionately to establish. 2008 congratulate President Murray for executing Those honoring her describe Joan best as SPEECH OF these projects debt-free. they ‘‘gratefully thank and honor the woman Murray also deserves commendation for his whose vision, energy, commitment and pas- HON. BETTY McCOLLUM distinguished service as an officer in the sion for victims of violent crime and their fami- OF MINNESOTA United States Marine Corps. He served in lies has given many thousands of people a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sense of acceptance and hope.’’ More than both Korea and Vietnam and received three Thursday, March 29, 2007 Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. just an administrator, Joan Coleman has ac- President Murray will retire on May 31, and companied thousands of victims into the court- Ms. MCCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Chair- I am proud to honor his exceptional career. room remaining by their side. It is not unusual man, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. His contributions in service to our country and for victims and their families to remain in con- 99, the 2008 House Budget Resolution, and I commitment to education deserve recognition. tact with the Victim Witness Assistance Pro- congratulate Chairman SPRATT for advancing f gram long after their proceedings have been the priorities of American families. finalized. This fact is the most telling tribute to This budget moves our country in a new di- TRIBUTE TO JOAN COLEMAN AND this remarkable woman. rection. First, it is fiscally responsible. In con- ANTHONY PIZZA Anthony G. Pizza, was elected Lucas Coun- trast to the 6 years of high budget deficits ty Prosecutor in 1976 and served continuously under the former majority, this proposal pro- HON. MARCY KAPTUR until his retirement in 1996. In this twenty-year vides for a surplus in 2012 by strictly adhering OF OHIO period, Tony ‘‘endeared himself to the citizens to the pay-as-you-go principle adopted in the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of Lucas County as a man with both a huge first days of the 110th Congress. It also protects the integrity of taxpayer dollars by insti- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 heart and a passionate conviction that crime has no place in our community.’’ tuting initiatives to crack down on wasteful or Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I am proud Born in Toledo in 1921, Tony graduated fraudulent spending. It is critical that we do not to recognize two long-time advocates in our from St. Charles grade school and Libbey burden our children and grandchildren with community, Joan Coleman and Anthony Pizza. High School, where he played varsity football crippling debt which threatens the competitive- Both will be honored at the inaugural ‘‘Stand and was class salutatorian. He attended ness of this Nation. Up for Victims’’ event on April 25, 2007, spon- Kenyon College and graduated from the Uni- H. Con. Res. 99 provides for the top priority sored by Advocates for Victims and Justice, versity of Toledo College of Law in 1950. He of the Federal Government—which is to keep Inc. in Toledo, Ohio. The organization was de- and his wife Madlynn, married now 63 years, our Nation safe and to keep our promises to veloped by Mr. Pizza and Mrs. Coleman to as- together raised four children and have six the brave men and women that serve in the sist crime victims and provide educational and grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Armed Forces. This bill increases funding for prevention programs to the community. Advo- Tony actually began his career in the Pros- veterans’ health care and services by 14 per- cates for Victims and Justice, Inc. also assists ecutor’s Office in 1951, where he served as cent, provides more homeland security funding older adult victims of crime as well as victims an assistant prosecutor. Thus it can be said than the Bush administration requested, and of domestic violence and sexual assault. that Tony devoted his entire career as an ad- funds the 9/11 Commission recommendations. Joan Coleman was the first Executive Direc- vocate for justice on behalf of the citizens of The Democratic budget resolution also tor of the Toledo/Lucas County Victim Witness our community. In all, Tony Pizza served our makes critical investments in our future by Assistance Program, initiated in 1990 by then community for 45 years in the office of the doubling funding for the National Science Lucas County Prosecutor Anthony Pizza. The Lucas County Prosecutor, an impressive ten- Foundation and making significant increases Prosecutor believed that the victims of crime ure during which he often used innovative in math and science education. This budget and their families suffered needlessly through methods to fight crime. During all those years, recognizes that one of the most efficient and inadequate attention from the court system he never let difficult situations or personal effective investments we can make is in our itself and deserved special attention as they tragedy drag him down and his ‘‘sunny dis- children’s education. It increases funding for navigated that system. Under Joan Coleman’s position, leadership, and dedication to our No Child Left Behind, special education, Head able tutelage, the Victims Witness Assistance community’’ inspired us all. Start, and student aid programs—all of which Program has grown to a staff of seventeen Tony Pizza also understood the ability of his have been neglected or reduced over the past with offices throughout Lucas County. office to address non-criminal needs and 6 years. Studies have shown that by recog- A graduate of the University of Toledo with causes. As one example, he successfully nizing the needs of children today, we both a degree in Education/Social Work, Joan put stopped the State of Michigan from building a save taxpayer dollars in the long run, and en- her experience as a community activist to hazardous waste dump which would pollute sure the availability of highly skilled workers in work in establishing and growing the Victim the waterways of Northwest Ohio by filing suit the future. Witness Assistance Program into a premiere in the U.S. District Court. Last November Americans made clear that service providing outreach for Spanish-speak- Though retired as Prosecutor for a decade, access to health care is a top priority for fami- ing victims; assistance to victims of juvenile of- Tony still practices law. His family remains lies and should be for the Congress. This

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E757 budget rejects the draconian cuts to Medicare hours of work. Our communities are truly a but in the international community as well. and Medicaid proposed by the Bush adminis- better place to live because of their efforts. Nearly 30 states restructured their entire juve- tration and provides for an expansion of the Madam Speaker and fellow members of nile justice systems based on Denny’s presen- State Children’s Health Insurance Program to Congress, I ask you to join me in commending tation on restorative justice. Additionally, the insure millions more children. these present and future leaders for their ac- U.S. Department of State has distributed infor- This budget recognizes that those who need complishments with the Boy Scouts of Amer- mation based on Denny’s juvenile justice re- tax relief in this country are not corporations ica and for achieving the distinction of Eagle search to over 250 countries and his methods and the very wealthiest. This proposal in- Scout. are being used worldwide as a foundation for cludes relief from the Alternative Minimum Tax f justice system reform. for millions of middle-income taxpayers and Madam Speaker, during his phenomenal ca- extends other middle-income tax cuts like the A TRIBUTE ON THE OCCASION OF reer of contributions, Denny Maloney gener- child tax credit, marriage penalty relief and THE DEDICATION OF THE DEN- ously shared his experience and his expertise State and local deductions. NIS MALONEY COMMUNITY JUS- with others. The work that he did improved the The budget resolution is a statement of pri- TICE CENTER lives of countless people across our country, orities. Chairman SPRATT has proposed a and I’m grateful to have known him. common-sense, fiscally responsible budget HON. GREG WALDEN While his services and accomplishments that puts families first and grows our economy. OF OREGON speak volumes, perhaps most importantly, I am proud to support H. Con. Res. 99 and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Denny Maloney inspired all who knew him to do more to help those in need and to improve urge all my colleagues to join me. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 I also congratulate the Progressive Caucus the quality of life for all citizens. He always and the Congressional Black Caucus for the Mr. WALDEN of Oregon. Madam Speaker, I wore an infectious smile, and he encouraged budget ideas they put forward. I have sup- rise today to pay tribute to a dear friend and us to keep a positive attitude in our work and ported both of these amendments today large- an exceptional community leader who trag- throughout our daily lives. He was a good ly because of the increased attention to diplo- ically passed away in February of this year, friend and trusted counselor to me and to macy, peace, and investment in the global Mr. Dennis ‘‘Denny’’ Maloney. Today Denny’s many others. We will all miss his wisdom, wit, community. These issues must continue to be friends, family and colleagues gather in enthusiasm and ability, and we will never for- a part of the appropriations debate. Deschutes County, Oregon to celebrate his life get the mark he left in our communities and in f with the dedication of the new ‘‘Dennis our hearts. Maloney Community Justice Center.’’ This is a f RECOGNIZING THE BOY SCOUTS OF fitting tribute to a man who gave so gener- TROOP 648 FOR ACHIEVING THE ously of his time and his talents throughout a TRIBUTE TO MR. FRANK BUCKLES RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT distinguished career in service to others. My colleagues, Denny Maloney was born on HON. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO HON. JAMES P. MORAN March 20, 1951 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, to OF WEST VIRGINIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF VIRGINIA Patrick and Carol Maloney. Denny graduated IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES with honors from the University of Wisconsin, Tuesday, April 17, 2007 where he studied humanities. It was in Min- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Mrs. CAPITO. Madam Speaker, I rise today nesota where Denny would acknowledge his to recognize and celebrate the long life and Mr. MORAN of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I most significant achievement occurred. It is continuing achievements of Mr. Frank Buckles. rise today to honor Joseph Cameron Morgan, there that he met and married his lovely wife, One of four known surviving veterans of the Evan Carlin O’Rourke, Christopher Anthony Nancy. Together, they raised five outstanding WWI, Frank recently celebrated his 106th Piemonte, William E. Pierce, and Joshua Paul daughters, Tracy, Shannon, Caitlin, Kelly and birthday. St. Louis of Alexandria, Virginia, for achieving Molly. Those who knew Denny knew not only Frank was born in Missouri in 1901 and was the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of a man with a strong sense of civic commit- only 16 when the United States entered the America. As members of Troop 648 in the ment, but a father and husband with tremen- First World War. Frank’s age, however, did not Chain Bridge District of the National Capital dous devotion and commitment to his family. prevent him from serving his country. After Area Council, these Scouts have exemplified Madam Speaker, those of us in Oregon, es- being turned away by the Navy and Marines, the finest qualities of leadership and citizen- pecially communities in central Oregon, are so he convinced an Army recruiter he was old ship in earning Boy Scouts’ most prestigious fortunate that Denny’s upbringing and edu- enough to enlist. award. cation instilled in him the drive and desire to Frank served in England and France during At Troop 648, these Scouts have provided make the world a better place. He led by ex- the war; first as a car and ambulance driver leadership in a variety of positions. They have ample, and remarkable results followed. and later as an escort for returning German led as Senior Patrol Leaders, Assistant Senior Denny was a longtime advocate for troubled POWs. After the war, he returned to America Patrol Leaders, and as Troop Representatives youth and was a nationally recognized expert and worked for the White Star Line Steamship to the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national and innovator on the subject of juvenile reha- Company and the Banker’s Trust Company. honor society. They have also served as Jun- bilitation. Madam Speaker, Denny didn’t be- In 1941 Frank became entangled in the ior Assistant Scoutmasters to Troop 648 su- lieve in giving up on someone. He saw the in- Second World War. The Japanese Army in- pervising and supporting the other Boy herent good in humanity and in the people he vaded while Frank was working in the Phil- Scouts. met, and he devoted his life to giving people ippines and he spent three years as a prisoner Together and collectively, these Scouts a second chance. Denny worked to ensure in Japanese war camps. have trekked through the mountains of Vir- that troubled youth received mentoring and These remarkable experiences could easily ginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, explored counseling, while demonstrating the significant fill two full lives, but for Frank it was only the underground caves, sailed the Chesapeake value of being an upstanding member of soci- first half. He came home from the war and Bay and gone on numerous camping trips. ety and a real contributor within one’s commu- settled down to start a family, moving to West They have earned dozens of merit badges nity. Simply put, Denny Maloney positively Virginia in 1954 and managing Gap View and many service awards, including the Presi- changed the lives of many of his fellow citi- Farm. dent’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold) for pro- zens. Frank has been there ever since. At 106, he viding over 250 hours of service to the com- During his lifetime, Denny amassed over 30 is still active on his 330 acre cattle farm. munity in a twelve month period. They have years of experience in the field of community Madam Speaker, in a time when America earned numerous environmental awards in- corrections. For 16 years, he served as the Di- faces a grave external threat, we can find cluding the World Conservation Award and the rector of the Deschutes County Department of comfort and strength in our Nation’s history. William T. Hornaday Award. These young men Community Justice in my home state of Or- During the 106 years since Frank Buckles’ are truly exemplary Scouts. egon. There, he initiated a variety of juvenile birth, the United States has grown into the For their Eagle Scout Leadership Service and adult corrections programs that are glob- greatest Nation on earth. The service, deter- Projects, these young men have organized ally renowned. mination, patriotism and love that Frank has and managed dozens of volunteers. They He wrote extensively about the methods he shown throughout his life represents the very have led conservation projects, trail construc- developed and the positive impact of his pro- best of this great country. West Virginians are tion and park restoration involving hundreds of grams is evident not only across our nation honored to call Frank one of our own.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 TRIBUTE TO THE UNIVERSITY OF Ukraine’s current political conflict is the re- HONORING RIVERDALE’S LADY WYOMING WOMENS BASKETBALL sult of the ongoing power struggle that Presi- WARRIORS ON THEIR CHAMPION- TEAM dent Victor Yushchenko and Prime Minister SHIP BASKETBALL SEASON Victor Yanukovich have now been engaged in HON. BARBARA CUBIN since Yanukovich became Prime Minister last HON. BART GORDON OF WYOMING August. This power struggle, rooted in hastily OF TENNESSEE IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES conceived constitutional reforms, threatens to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES undermine Ukraine’s hard-fought and substan- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 tial democratic gains, especially those won Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Mrs. CUBIN. Madam Speaker, I am proud since the 2004 Orange Revolution. Mr. GORDON of Tennessee. Madam to rise today to offer my congratulations to the Exactly 2 weeks ago today, President Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2006– University of Wyoming womens basketball Yushchenko issued a decree dissolving par- 2007 Riverda1e High School Lady Warriors team. On March 31st, the team handily de- liament, asserting that the Prime Minister was and their championship basketball season. feated the University of Wisconsin to win the attempting to monopolize power, and called The Lady Warriors are from my home town of Womens National Invitational Tournament for for new parliamentary elections for May 27. Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and I am proud of the first time in school history. Parliament has refused to disband and ques- them for this tremendous accomplishment. As the Representative of the great State of tions the legality of the presidential decree. I know these ladies put forth intense deter- Wyoming, it is my pleasure to join my fellow Ukraine’s Constitutional Court is to rule on the mination and perseverance as they captured citizens as our state beams with pride for legality of the decree and both sides have the first girls basketball championship for a these 14 very accomplished young women agreed to abide by the Court’s decision. Un- Murfreesboro team in 83 years and the first and their coach, Joe Legerski. fortunately, some of the Court’s judges have ever for Riverdale High School. Madam Speaker, millions of people across already complained of threats and pressure, The Lady Warriors were dominant through- America call themselves basketball players, especially from Yanukovich’s supporters. out their season. Their final win over Memphis but only the truly elite will ever have the satis- Clearly, this is unacceptable and steps have Northside was the team’s 17th straight victory. faction and delight of calling themselves na- been taken to protect the judges. I commend Riverdale High School principal tional champions. Members of the Wyoming Madam Speaker, it is important to note that Tom Nolan, Lady Warriors head coach Mi- Cowgirl basketball team are now living the Ukraine has made real democratic gains since chael Burt and assistant coaches Brianne dream of every young girl who has ever laced the Orange Revolution. A year ago, as Presi- Dodgen, Tisha Hayes, Jamey Arnold and up her high tops and joined her local hoops dent of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, I Cuyler Lanier. team. had the privilege of leading the OSCE-Ied I extend my congratulations to the 2006– But the road to the WNIT Championship International Election Observation Mission to 2007 AAA State Champion Lady Warriors: wasn’t easy. In the semi-finals, the Cowgirls Ukraine’s parliamentary elections and the Anne Marie Lanning, Alex Bivens, Jessica were pitted against the defending WNIT pleasure and profound satisfaction of pro- Whitens, Nikki Talley, Shellina Burgess, champs, Kansas State University. In front of a nouncing them free and fair. Also, in contrast Morgann Swoape, Clarke Davis, Hillary Grider, boisterous home crowd, the Cowgirls won a to the first 13 years of its independence, Payton Dickinson, Candace Spurlock, Rachel triple-overtime thriller, earning a ticket to the Ukraine in now designated by Freedom House Orman, Natalie Lanning and Manager Jackie first post-season championship game in the as a ‘‘free’’ country, and not merely ‘‘partly Donovan. program’s history. free.’’ Nevertheless, despite the progress, f Three days later, over 15,000 fans arrived there have been missed opportunities and at Laramie’s famous Arena-Auditorium to some of the promises of that historic revolu- HONORING DR. PATRICK MAXWELL watch the Cowgirls roll to a 72–56 victory over tion have gone unfulfilled. the Wisconsin Badgers. Their victory came in Democratic institutions and the rule of law in HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN front of the largest-ever crowd of Cowgirl bas- Ukraine are still emerging and fragile and lack- OF TENNESSEE ketball fans, a testament to the State’s over- ing in their ability to safeguard democratic IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES whelming support and pride for these women. gains, and it is this weakness that has made Tuesday, April 17, 2007 I urge my colleagues to join me in congratu- it possible for this power struggle to ripen into Mrs. BLACKBURN. Madam Speaker, it is a lating Amy Bolerjack, her sister Jodi Bolerjack, a full-blown political crisis. First and foremost, privilege to rise today to honor G. Patrick Max- Mallory Cline, Elisabeth Dissen, Annie my resolution calls for the crisis to be resolved well, M.D., FACS and thank him for his con- Gorenstein, Angiah Harris, Gemma Koehler, in a manner that adheres to the rule of law tributions to the practice of plastic surgery and Megan McGuffey, Megan Mordecai, Justyna consistent with Ukraine’s democratic values his service to others. Dr. Maxwell’s talents as Podziemska, Dominique Sisk, Rebecca and national security, in keeping with its a pioneering plastic surgeon are world re- Vanderjagt, Aubrey Vandiver, and tournament OSCE commitments. It is also essential that the dispute is resolved in a peaceful manner. nowned. MVP Hanna Zavecz. Dr. Maxwell received both his under- These Cowgirls have proven they know how I am encouraged that demonstrations in Kyiv graduate and M.D. from Vanderbilt University to get ’er done. They are living a dream come have been peaceful and that all sides to the and completed residencies in general surgery true, and they will have memories to last a dispute appear to recognize that any kind of and plastic surgery at the Johns Hopkins Hos- lifetime. violent conflict would have very negative consequences for Ukraine. pital in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Maxwell has f Madam Speaker, prolonged instability is published over 100 scientific articles, and lec- INTRODUCTION OF RESOLUTION clearly not in Ukraine’s interests and that natured and performed live surgical demonstra- ON UKRAINE POLITICAL CRISIS tion’s political leaders need to find a trans- tions in over 20 countries world-wide. parent way out of the current impasse that all In 2005, Dr. Maxwell was awarded the Pres- HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS parties will abide by. I hope that responsible idential Award from the American Society of OF FLORIDA dialogue consistent with the rule of law leads Plastic Surgeons. This award acknowledged IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to a positive outcome for the Ukrainian people his ‘‘excellence as an educator and innovator and the democratic path they have chosen. bringing art and science to a new level for the Tuesday, April 17, 2007 As this resolution underscores, Congress specialty.’’ Additionally Maxwell has received Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, has been a staunch supporter of the develop- virtually every accolade awarded to an Amer- I rise to introduce a concurrent resolution ment of democracy and respect for human ican plastic surgeon. These awards include which addresses the current political crisis in rights and the rule of law in Ukraine since the the Robert H. Ivy Society Award, the James Ukraine, a country of strategic importance to restoration of that nation’s independence in Barrett Brown Award and Maxwell is a three the United States. My resolution urges all 1991. The consolidation of democracy and the time recipient of the Walter Scott Brown sides to the ongoing impasse to act respon- rule of law in Ukraine will further strengthen Award. Dr. Maxwell continues to be an inno- sibly and use dialogue to resolve the crisis that country’s independence and sovereignty, vator in his field and has ten U.S. patents for and ensure a free and democratic system in enhancing Ukraine’s aspirations for full inte- medical devices. Dr. Maxwell has been instru- Ukraine based on the rule of law. I am gration with the West. I urge my colleagues to mental in revolutionizing developments in re- pleased that Rep. KAPTUR, a co-chair of the support this timely resolution as a demonstra- construction for survivors of breast cancer. Ukrainian American Caucus, has joined me as tion of Congress’ interest, concern, and sup- Maxwell’s contributions are not limited to the original cosponsor. port for the Ukrainian people. field of plastic surgery. In addition, Maxwell is

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E759 the co-founder of the Tennesse-Kentucky his years of service to the Committee as passion for gardening or for helping his com- chapter of Operation Smile, past president of among the most productive and meaningful in munity. He has dedicated himself to his career the Nashville Chapter of the American Cancer our Nation’s history. and his community and I commend him today Society, a founder and board member of the Madam Speaker, most Americans have for his outstanding service. Aspen Center for Integrative Medicine and co- probably never heard of Phil Kiko, but they f founder and Executive EVP Diversified Spe- have heard of the aforementioned bills he has cialty Institute. worked on, and they have certainly been af- HONORING VASKEN HOGOPIAN, Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join fected by them in some way, shape or form. PH.D. me in thanking Dr. Maxwell for his extraor- Phil’s tenacity and passion for working on dinary contributions to plastic surgery and for ideals that he believed to be right and just HON. JASON ALTMIRE the profoundly positive impact he has on our often pushed him and those he worked with, OF PENNSYLVANIA community. to spend many a late night in the Capitol—but IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f the benefits of his dedication went ultimately Tuesday, April 17, 2007 to Americans like you and me. TRIBUTE TO PHILIP G. KIKO It is never easy to say goodbye, especially Mr. ALTMIRE. Madam Speaker, I rise to to one who has been by my side for decades. pay tribute to Vasken Hagopian, Ph.D., who is HON. F. JAMES SENSENBRENNER, JR. But I also know that there comes a time when retiring after more than 40 years of teaching, OF WISCONSIN we must all simply move on. That time has the past 37 years of which were spent at my IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES come for Phil Kiko, and so I stand before you, alma mater, Florida State University. Professor Hagopian is recognized as a Tuesday, April 17, 2007 and the rest of my colleagues, and I ask you all to join me in wishing Phil all the best, as world-renowned expert in high energy physics. Mr. SENSENBRENNER. Madam Speaker, it he takes his next step. His research has involved the use of high en- is with mixed feelings that I rise before you On behalf of the Committee on the Judici- ergy particle accelerators to study the prop- today to say a few words about one of my ary, the House of Representatives, and my- erties of fundamental particles, such as the longest serving and closest staff, Philip G. self, I thank you Phil, for all your service to proton and the neutron. Kiko. Phil was one of the first people I hired this Nation, and congratulate you on a job well I first crossed paths with Professor on my personal staff in 1979, when I was a done. Hagopian as an astronomy student at Florida freshman Member of Congress, and in the f State in 1986. I later worked with him during years since, he has become a close friend my time as a legislative assistant for former and confidant. HONORING THOMAS HEBEL FOR Congressman Pete Peterson of Florida in the During my tenure on the House Committee LIFETIME BUSINESS ACHIEVE- mid-1990’s. on the Judiciary, a Committee upon which I MENTS Over the years, students often asked him have served throughout my tenure in this body why it is important to study astronomy and re- and chaired from 2001 to 2006, Phil served HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY lated fields. Professor Hagopian would fa- the country and Committee ably by pushing OF PENNSYLVANIA mously reply, ‘‘You never know, one of you through several pieces of legislation that, in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES might end up in Congress one day and have my opinion, have made this country a better to vote on science budgets and space explo- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 place. Just look at the reauthorization of the ration.’’ Like most things he taught his stu- Voting Rights Act of 1982, a historic event that Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. dents, he was, in the long run, proven right. reaffirmed the promise of voting equality to Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise I wish Professor Hagopian well as he pur- millions of Americans. And then, as General today to congratulate Mr. Thomas Hebel on sues new challenges and moves into the next Counsel and Chief of Staff to the Committee his recent nomination for the Bucks County phase of his extraordinary life. on the Judiciary last year, Phil led staff nego- Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement f tiations that led to near unanimous House and Award in the area of Business Achievement. Senate passage of the Fannie Lou Hamer, His success as the owner of Bucks Country HONORING CHIEF LUTHER J. TAY- Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting Gardens and dedication to his community set LOR OF THE SOUTH BEND FIRE Rights Act Reauthorization and Amendments him apart as an outstanding individual, and it DEPARTMENT Act. His unique capacity to bridge partisan di- is my pleasure to join in the recognition of his visions to advance the promise of equality our extraordinary career. HON. JOE DONNELLY Constitution provides to all of America’s citi- The great honor of this Lifetime Achieve- OF INDIANA zens best illustrates his unrivaled abilities as a ment Award is not one easily attained. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES consensus-builder and negotiator. award takes into account both Mr. Hebel’s re- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Moreover, the skills Phil demonstrated dur- markable success within his business venture ing consideration and passage of this legisla- and his commitment to his community. Mr. Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise tion were applied to advance other legislation Hebel has been an exemplary model in both today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen whose titles are as familiar as they are his- of these areas. of South Bend, IN, Luther J. Taylor, who has toric. Phil was a driving staff force behind con- An accomplished landscaper, Mr. Hebel devoted his life to the protection of his com- gressional passage of the Adam Walsh Child graduated from the Pennsylvania State Uni- munity. For the past 34 years he has served Protection and Safety Act of 2006, which has versity with a degree in landscaping, and was as a firefighter for the South Bend Fire Depart- been hailed by child safety and law enforce- hired as a landscape designer at Tom Royer’s ment, 21 of those as Fire Chief. ment groups as the most comprehensive fed- Nursery and Greenhouses. He worked his way Chief Taylor’s career as a firefighter started eral child protection legislation in a generation. up to partner, and upon Mr. Royer’s retire- in 1972. At that time he never intended to And who can forget the terrorist attacks of ment, purchased the business, becoming the build a career but rather to move on to an- September 11, 2001 which demonstrated fun- sole owner. He renamed the business Bucks other profession after a few years. Yet, his damental vulnerabilities in America’s law en- Country Gardens, and in just thirteen years, feelings of duty to his community and enjoy- forcement and intelligence communities. Phil the business grew from five employees to ment for his job led him to a long and illus- played a central staff role in consideration and sixty-five employees. trious career. Today the South Bend commu- passage of the USA PATRIOT and USA PA- Mr. Hebel and his staff donate time to vol- nity honors this career. TRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act, unteer in the community. His efforts include First appointed Fire Chief by Mayor Roger laws that have provided America’s law en- serving as President of the Bucks Beautiful Parent in 1985, Taylor’s adept management forcement and intelligence agencies with the program, the company’s annual beautification style and creative ideas led him to be re- tools necessary to detect, disrupt and deter of a Bucks County organization, working on appointed under the two succeeding mayors. terrorist attacks before they occur on Amer- the Bucks County Designer House and serv- In his 21 years as Fire Chief he has greatly in- ican soil. Phil has also played pivotal roles in ing on various committees for the Pennsyl- creased the professionalism, efficiency and congressional passage of the Bankruptcy vania State University. lifesaving capacity of the South Bend Fire De- Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Madam Speaker, Mr. Hebel embodies the partment. Through Chief Taylor’s leadership, Act, the Class Action Fairness Act, REAL ID true American spirit. He has risen from de- the South Bend Fire Department has become Act, and other legislation that will distinguish signer to business owner but never lost his one of the top fire departments in Indiana.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E760 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 From 1992 to 1993 Chief Taylor served as celebration marking the city’s 100th anniver- good to recognize these advances, but we the President of the Indiana Fire Chiefs Asso- sary, Lenexa honors its past while looking for- should take a moment to consider how we can ciation. This association strives to increase the ward to the future. I join with my neighbors, improve the system further. professionalism and success of fire depart- friends and constituents in Lenexa in honoring There are currently over 21⁄2 million children ments throughout Indiana. He has served on this important milestone. being cared for by family members nationally. numerous other boards across the State of In- f However, unless these relatives have waivers diana each benefiting greatly from his exper- from the Department of Health and Human tise. INTRODUCING THE ENHANCED OP- Services, they are not eligible for foster care In 2005 Chief Luther Taylor was awarded TIONS FOR RURAL HEALTH maintenance payments. Withholding financial the Sagamore of the Wabash, the highest CARE ACT support from family providers greatly ignores honor bestowed by governors of Indiana, by the needs of these children and families. Al- Governor Joe Kernan. This award is given HON. RON PAUL most 19 percent of kinship care providers live only to those who make major contributions to OF TEXAS in poverty, and 30 percent to 40 percent of the lives of Hoosiers. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES children in foster care have chronic medical So today, on behalf of the citizens of South problems. It is unrealistic to expect these pro- Bend, I thank Luther Taylor for his years of Tuesday, April 17, 2007 viders to afford appropriate care for these vul- dedication to the safety and security of our Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I raise to intro- nerable children simply because they are fam- community. As he retires from almost 35 years duce the Enhanced Options for Rural Health ily. This is a very personal problem to me. The on the South Bend Fire Department, I pay Care Act. This legislation allows critical access 7th Congressional District in Illinois—my Con- special tribute to one of the finest fire chiefs to hospitals to use beds designated for critical gressional District—has the highest percent- ever serve Indiana. His service will always be access use, but currently not being used for age of children being raised by grandparents remembered for numerous lives that were that purpose, for assisted living services fi- in the nation. Two other Chicago districts fol- saved as a result of his efforts and the nanced by private payments. low close behind. It also upsets me greatly changes that each citizen can see as a result This bill will help improve the financial status that the limitations in our system have a dis- of his leadership. of small rural hospitals and extend the health proportionate effect on minority children and f care options available to people living in rural families, who tend to opt for guardianship rath- areas without increasing federal expenditures. er than adoption. TRIBUTE TO THE CITY OF Currently, fear that rural hospitals will lose crit- So, I join my colleagues in supporting a day LENEXA, KANSAS, ON ITS 100TH ical access status if beds designated for crit- to recognize foster parents and their tremen- ANNIVERSARY ical access are used for another purpose is dous contribution to society. causing rural hospitals to allow beds not need- f HON. DENNIS MOORE ed for a critical access purpose to remain un- OF KANSAS VAISAKHI DAY CELEBRATED used. This deprives rural hospitals of a much- AROUND THE WORLD IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES needed revenue stream and deprives resi- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 dents of rural areas of access to needed HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I health care services. My colleagues may be interested to know OF NEW YORK am pleased to have this opportunity today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES recognize the 100th anniversary of my com- that the idea for this bill comes from Marcella munity of residence, the city of Lenexa, Kan- Henke, an administrator of Jackson County Tuesday, April 17, 2007 sas, one of the leading communities in the Hospital, a critical access hospital in my con- Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, on April 13 Third Congressional District of Kansas. gressional district. Ms. Henke conceived of and 14, the Sikhs community celebrated Lenexa officially became a city on May 8, this idea as a way to meet the increasing de- Vaisakhi Day with events in Washington, New 1907, and the community is coming together mand for assisted living services in rural areas York, London, Canada, Australia, and wher- for an eight-day celebration from May 5–12 of and provide hospitals with a profitable way to ever Sikhs live. It was a very proud day for this year. use beds not being used for critical access them. The Washington, DC, event was led by Lenexa was platted in 1869 by French-born purposes. I urge my colleagues to embrace Dr. Paramjit Singh Ajrawat, a well-known Sikh civil engineer, Octave Chanute, who, in addi- this practical way of strengthening rural health activist and supporter of a free Khalistan. tion to designing the original Hannibal Bridge care without increasing federal expenditures Large numbers of Sikhs showed up in these over the Missouri River in Kansas City, also by cosponsoring the Enhanced Options for locations to celebrate the day. They called for served as a mentor to the Wright Brothers in Rural Health Care Act. freedom for the Sikh nation. They raised slo- their quest for flight. Lenexa was named for f gans in support of Khalistan, the Sikh home- Na Nex Se, a highly respected, hard-working land. Freedom is the birthright of all peoples EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR A Shawnee Indian woman, the daughter-in-law and nations. NATIONAL FOSTER PARENTS DAY of Chief Black Hoof. Thirty-eight years later, When America became independent, Pun- on May 8, 1907, Lenexa was incorporated as jab was already independent. Dr. Gunnit Singh a City of the Third Class in Kansas. HON. DANNY K. DAVIS Aulakh, president of the Council of Khalistan, In Lenexa’s earliest days, people from var- OF ILLINOIS has called on Sikhs to celebrate Vaisakhi Day ious backgrounds and cultures came together IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES by rededicating themselves to achieving the freedom that is their birthright. to form this great city. With a population of ap- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 proximately 300, the young city boasted a Madam Speaker, we should put this Con- healthful location, graded schools, three Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise gress on record with a resolution in support of churches, suburban train service, excellent today in honor of National Foster Parents Day. self-determination for Khalistan and throughout telephone service, and an electric railway sta- Foster parents are vital to the development of the subcontinent. Why is India opposed to a tion. today’s children and tomorrow’s leaders. As free and fair vote on the matter, in the demo- Today, Lenexa, which has grown to a popu- former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy cratic way? We should end our aid and trade lation of 46,000 residents and enjoys a healthy once proclaimed, ‘‘Children are the world’s with India until I the basic rights of all are al- business base, is considered a city of choice most valuable resource and its best hope for lowed to be enjoyed, the way that democratic for a variety of high tech and bioscience com- the future.’’ Foster care parents dedicate their countries behave. panies. The city also is looked to as a leader lives to care for the less fortunate children, VAISAKHI DAY CELEBRATED WITH PARADES, in local government initiatives such as water- with little compensation or recognition. They EVENTS shed management and public safety. perform this noble task under very difficult cir- WASHINGTON, DC, Apr. 14, 2007.—Vaisakhi Lenexa, which is known as the City of Fes- cumstances with love and care. Recognizing Day, the 308th anniversary of the creation tivals for the numerous festivals and events it these efforts is important. and consecration of the Khalsa Panth by There are 523,000 children in foster care in Guru Gobind Singh, is being celebrated with hosts each year, will hold a week-long com- parades and events in Washington, London, munity celebration (May 5–12, 2007) to mark the United States today. Congress has made New York, Canada, England, Australia, and the occasion of its 100th anniversary. a number of improvements to foster care laws around the world. Madam Speaker, Lenexa cherishes its rich over the last decade; improvements that have The Washington parade occurs on April 14 history, heritage and culture, and with this helped support our children and families. It is under the leadership of Dr. Paramjit Singh

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E761 Ajrawat with the cooperation of the local take on greater and greater financial respon- and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Sikh Gurdwaras. Later in April, the annual sibilities, these men and women are similarly I am proud to recognize her as the first recipi- Sikh Day Parade in New York will be held. unprepared to finance higher education, han- ent of the Commodore Greanoff Inspirational Guru Gobind baptized the first five bap- dle a mortgage, and save for retirement. The Leadership Award. tized Sikhs, known as the Panj Piaras, on Vaisakhi Day in 1699, then asked them to implications of this behavior extend beyond f baptize him. He declared, ‘‘In grieb Sikhin personal welfare. Consumer debt in the U.S. ko deon Patshahi (‘‘I give sovereignty to the reached $2.4 trillion in 2006, $825 billion of TRIBUTE TO THE LAWRENCE, KAN- humble Sikhs’’) Just two years after his de- which comes from credit card debts. SAS, COMMUNITY NURSERY parture from this earthly plane in 1708, the Financial literacy should be a fundamental SCHOOL Sikhs established their own independent part of every young American’s education. The state in Punjab. ability to manage one’s finances is essential to HON. DENNIS MOORE At the time that America became inde- building wealth and leading a prosperous eco- pendent, Punjab was an independent country OF KANSAS already. It was independent from 1710 to 1716 nomic life. On the other hand, those who lack IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the ability to manage money face lifelong ob- and again from 1765 to 1849, when the British Tuesday, April 17, 2007 conquered South Asia. Today Sikhs struggle stacles to fulfilling their human potential and to regain the sovereignty that Guru Gobind creating a solid economic foundation for their Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Madam Speaker, Singh bestowed upon them over 300 years families. the Lawrence, Kansas, Community Nursery ago. I thank my distinguished colleagues, Con- School [LCNS] was founded in 1948 after a Vaisakhi Day is the anniversary of the gressman HINOJOSA and Congresswoman group of mothers attended a conference on founding of the Khalsa. On Vaisakhi Day in BIGGERT, for their work leading the House Fi- preschool play offered by the University of 1699, Guru Gobind Singh baptized the Sikhs nancial Literacy Caucus, and I urge my col- Kansas Extension School and sponsored by and required them to keep the five Ks. He the Lawrence League for the Practice of De- made the Sikhs into saints and soldiers. leagues to support this resolution. That memory is celebrated on Vaisakhi Day f mocracy. They founded the school on three each year. main principles—that the school must be: a ‘‘I send Vaisakhi Day greetings to all HONORING CHRISTELLA GRESS ON parent cooperative; integrated, both racially Sikhs and I urge all Sikhs to take this occa- RECEIVING THE UNITED STATES and religiously; and low-cost. Today LCNS is sion to fulfill Guru Gobind Singh’s vision by COAST GUARD AUXILIARY COM- the second oldest operating parent coopera- working to liberate our homeland, MODORE GREANOFF INSPIRA- tive preschool in the Nation, and those prin- Khalistan, from Indian oppression,’’ said Dr. TIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD ciples remain at the corner of the school. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of the On April 17, 1948 the school opened with its Council of Khalistan, which leads the struggle to achieve independence for Khalistan. HON. LOUISE McINTOSH SLAUGHTER first class of 10 mothers and 14 children. Fi- Khalistan declared itself independent on Oc- OF NEW YORK nancial support for the school came from the tober 7, 1987. Over 250,000 Sikhs have been IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Lawrence League for the Practice of Democ- killed since the Indian government attacked racy and the Oread Meeting of Friends. The the Golden Temple in Amritsar in June 1984. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 tuition was set at $1.00 per week. In 1951 the More than 52,000 are being held as political Ms. SLAUGHTER. Madam Speaker, I am Kansas State Board of Health licensed the prisoners, some for over 20 years. pleased to honor Ms. Christella (Chris) Gress school, and in July of 1952 the school was in- ‘‘Vaisakhi Day should be a time to renew from Grand Island, New York, who today re- corporated under Kansas State Law as the our commitment to freedom for our Sikh brothers and sisters in Punjab, Khalistan so ceived the first annual Commodore Greanoff Lawrence Community Nursery School. The they can live in prosperity, dignity, and se- Inspirational Leadership Award from the school received its permanent license to oper- curity. Only a free Khalistan can end the re- United States Coast Guard. ate in 1961. pression of the Sikh Nation,’’ Dr. Aulakh The Commodore Greanoff Inspirational The school was housed in various churches said. ‘‘Always remember our heritage: Raj Leadership Award recognizes the most distin- and schools for its first 6 years. After at least Kare Ga Khalsa; Khalsa Bagi Van Badshah. guished United States Coast Guard Auxiliary eight different locations, in the spring of 1955 Freedom for Khalistan is closer than ever. Flotilla Commander, and parallels existing the members of the advisory board, the board, Now is the time to claim it’’ Coast Guard leadership awards for officers, and the general membership voted to start a f chief petty officers, and civilians. The United 3-year building fund campaign chaired by Dr. States Coast Guard Auxiliary, established by Helen Gilles, a well known local pediatrician, SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND Congress in 1939, has more than 27,000 to raise money to buy a permanent home for IDEALS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY members who are engaged in missions that the nursery school. MONTH involve boat safety education, search and res- The campaign was a huge success. With cue, and homeland security operations. support of local businesses, members of the SPEECH OF Ms. Gress is the Immediate Past Flotilla cooperative, and the community at large, they HON. SILVESTRE REYES Commander of Flotilla 35, District 9 Eastern were able to raise over $2,000 in their building OF TEXAS Auxiliary Region. As Commander of her Flo- fund by May 1956, more than 2 years ahead IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tilla, Ms. Gress dedicated over 800 hours of of schedule. In March 1956, Dr. Gilles pre- her time to advance the mission and goals of sented the idea of buying the Wesleyan Meth- Monday, April 16, 2007 the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. Her odist Church at the comer of 7th and Alabama Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in commitment to the Auxiliary becomes even Streets. In August 1956, they put a down pay- support of H. Res. 273, a resolution sup- more impressive when one learns that she is ment on the church. In September 1956, the porting the goals and ideals of Financial Lit- holding multiple college teaching-jobs and board voted to paint the school ‘‘barn red with eracy Month. working on a doctoral dissertation. white trim.’’ This is how the building remains According to the JumpStart Coalition for Ms. Gress is described as tireless and a today, and it has become a permanent fixture Personal Financial Literacy, the average high natural motivator, and is credited with devel- in the Old West Lawrence neighborhood and school graduate does not possess basic per- oping a strong sense of collective identity with- the greater community as a whole. sonal financial management skills. These in her Flotilla. Ms. Gress hosted team exer- Several months of renovations and sharing young people are unable to balance a check- cises and fellowship events that welcomed the school with the church followed. Although book, and most have little knowledge of basic new members and increased activity among the site was used by the school in the fall of practices such as earning, spending, saving experienced members. Under her leadership, 1956, the church remained. In the summer of and investing. Flotilla membership participation expanded in 1957 the church moved out, and the Little Red This lack of awareness has serious con- programs including vessel examinations, oper- Schoolhouse was the home of the Lawrence sequences for young people. Without a funda- ations, and public education. In addition, Ms. Community Nursery School. Madam Speaker, mental understanding of finance charges and Gress was the driving force behind an award- I join with the LCNS community and with all accumulating interest, young people become winning Flotilla newsletter. Lawrencians in celebrating the completion of prone to credit card abuse, which often results Madam Speaker, Ms. Gress has earned the the 50th school year at their permanent home in overspending and long-term debt. As they respect and high admiration of her community at 645 Alabama Street.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E762 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 INTRODUCING THE CHILD HEALTH will not have to worry about how they will pay Blues music, and they will savor our res- CARE AFFORDABILITY ACT the bills if one of their children requires taurants, which are second to none. lengthy hospitalization or some other form of The 2016 Chicago Olympic bid offers Amer- HON. RON PAUL specialized care. ica the chance to demonstrate not only the OF TEXAS Madam Speaker, this Congress has a moral most amazing level of competition the world IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES responsibility to provide tax relief so that has to offer, but also to showcase the values loncome parents struggling to care for a sick that make America and the Olympic move- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 child can better meet their child’s medical ex- ment so significant, such as fair play, friend- Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to penses. Some may say that we cannot enact ship, hope, and inspiration. The world will help working Americans provide for their chil- the Child Health Care Affordability Act behave the opportunity to learn surprising and dren’s health care needs by introducing the cause it would cause the government to lose amazing things about Chicago. By way of the Child Health Care Affordability Act. The Child revenue. But, who is more deserving of this 2016 Summer Olympics, Chicago will become Health Care Affordability Act provides parents money, Congress or the working parents of a the world’s second home. with a tax credit of up to $500 for health care sick child? f expenses of dependent children. Parents car- The Child Health Care Affordability Act COUNCIL OF KHALISTAN SENDS ing for a child with a disability, tenninal dis- takes a major step toward helping working VAISAKHI GREETINGS TO SIKH ease, cancer, or any other health condition re- Americans meet their health care needs by NATION quiring specialized care would receive a tax providing them with generous health care re- credit of up to $3,000 to help cover their lated tax cuts and tax credits. I urge my col- child’s health care expenses. leagues to support the pro-family, pro-health HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS The tax credit would be available to all citi- care tax cuts contained in the Child Health OF NEW YORK zens, regardless of whether or not they Care Affordability Act. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES itemize their deductions. The credit applies f Tuesday, April 17, 2007 against both income and payroll tax liability. Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, April 13 is a RECOGNIZING THE CHICAGO 2016 The tax credits provided in this bill will be es- very important day in the Sikh community. It is OLYMPIC BID pecially helpful to those Americans whose em- called Vaisakhi Day, the anniversary of the ployers cannot afford to provide health insur- consecration or the Khalsa Panth in 1699 by ance for their employees. These workers must HON. DANNY K. DAVIS Guru Gobind Singh. It is celebrated in Sikh struggle to meet the medical bills of them- OF ILLINOIS families around the world. There is a parade selves and their families. This burden is espe- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES here in DC and later one in New York. I rise cially heavy on parents whose children have a Tuesday, April 17, 2007 today to offer Vaisakhi Day greetings to the medical condition; such as cancer or a phys- Sikh community. ical disability that requires long-term or spe- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise Recently, the Council of Khalistan issued cialized health care. today to recognize that, on April 14, 2007, the Vaisakhi greetings to the Sikh Nation. In the As an OB–GYN who has had the privilege city of Chicago was selected as the United letter, Dr. Gurmit Singh Aulakh, President of of delivering more than four thousand babies, States’ candidate for the 2016 Summer Olym- the Council of Khalistan urges the Sikh nation I know how important it is that parents have pics. The Chicago Olympic bid represents a to work for the liberation of Khalistan, the Sikh the resources to provide adequate health care choice by the United States Olympic Com- homeland that declared its independence from for their children. The inability of many working mittee to share the hometown qualities of this India on October 7, 1987. The Indian Americans to provide health care for their chil- great American city and state with the world’s govemment has subjected the Sikhs and other dren is rooted in one of the great inequities of athletes, guests, and over 3.6 billion people minorities, such as Christians, Muslims, and the tax code—Congress’ failure to allow indi- who take part in the Olympics via global tele- others, to major atrocities. Over a quarter of a viduals the same ability to deduct health care vision broadcast. If Chicago is selected by the million Sikhs have been murdered by the gov- costs that it grants to businesses. As a direct International Olympic Committee, the 2016 ernment since 1984. More than 90,000 Kash- result of Congress’ refusal to provide individ- Games will be the first Summer Olympics held miri Muslims, over 300,000 Christians in uals with health care related tax credits, par- in the Americas since the 1996 Atlanta Nagaland, and lens of thousands of other mi- ents whose employers do not provide health Games. norities have lost their lives at the hands of insurance have to struggle to provide health Chicago’s passion for sports, record of the regime and its operatives. The Movement care for their children. Many of these parents hosting international events, and cultural herit- Against State Repression reports that more work in low-income jobs; oftentimes, their only age make it a fitting host for these momentous than 52,000 Sikhs are being held as political recourse for health care is the local emer- games. Already a professional sports power- prisoners without charge or trial, as well as gency room. house, Chicago is arguably one of the most tens of thousands of other minorities. Sometimes parents are forced to delay sport-oriented cities in the United States. In- Freedom is the birthright of all peoples and seeking care for their children until minor deed, Chicagoans are famous for their enthu- nations, and Dr. Aulakh points out that Guru health concerns that could have been easily siastic support of their home teams, be it the Gobind Singh conferred sovereignty on the treated become serious problems requiring ex- Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, Cubs, Bulls, or Sikh Nation. That birthright has been sup- pensive treatment! If these parents had ac- the World Series Champion White Sox. Chi- pressed. cess to the type of tax credits provided in the cago boasts one of the largest marathon Dr. Aulakh also pointed out the ongoing ac- Child Health Care Affordability Act, they would events worldwide as well—the Chicago Mara- tivities in support of Khalistan in Punjab and be better able to provide care for their chil- thon. elsewhere. On behalf of the Sikh nation, Dr. dren, and our Nation’s already overcrowded Chicago also enjoys a long history of Awatar Singh Sekhon recently submitted a emergency rooms would be relieved of the hosting historic world gatherings, including the memorandum on the oppression of the Sikhs burden of having to provide routine care for 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the 1933 and the need for independence to the United people who otherwise cannot afford it. Century of Progress Exposition, the 1959 Pan Nations Human rights Commission in Geneva. According to research on the effects of this American Games, as well as matches for the Former Member of Parliament Atinder Pal bill done by my staff and legislative counsel, 1994 FIFA World Cup soccer tournament. Al- Singh ran in the recent Punjab elections on a the benefit of these tax credits would begin to though Chicago was to host the 1904 Summer platform supporting Khalistan. He also orga- be felt by joint filers with incomes slightly Olympics, this honor ultimately went to St. nized a seminar on Khalistan. Sikh leaders above $18,000 dollars per year, or single in- Louis to coincide with the St. Louis World’s were arrested on two separate occasions just come filers with incomes slightly above Fair. for making speeches in support of Khalistan $15,000 dollars per year. Clearly, this bill will In addition, Chicago’s world-class architec- and raising the Khalistani flag. Jagjit Singh, be of the most benefit to low-income Ameri- ture, renowned skyline, multi-cultural, histor- President of Dal Khalsa, was quoted in the cans balancing the demands of taxation with ical, and pop-cultural contributions are ex- Deccan Herald as saying that ‘‘the Indian the needs of their children. pected to weigh heavily as positive attractions goverument can never suppress the move- Under the Child Health Care Affordability in the Olympic bid considerations. The inter- ment. Sikh aspirations can only be met when Act, a struggling single mother with an asth- national community will be dazzled by Chi- they have a separate state.’’ Yet lndia prefers matic child would at last be able to provide for cago’s view from atop the Sears Tower, they to continue its repression, stationing half a mil- her child’s needs, while a working-class family will be serenaded by the deep passion of our lion troops in Punjab alone.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E763 Only independence will allow the Sikhs and river water to Haryana and Rajasthan to of the fact that the religions believe com- the other oppressed minorities to live in free- continue. This promise was essential to get- pletely opposite things, Hindus desire to en- dom, prosperity, security, and dignity, which is ting him elected. Although he is the leader gulf Sikhism just as they did with Jainism of the Akali Dal, Badal has again shown that and Buddhism in India. They think that Bud- their birthright. It is clear that as long as they he is under the control of the Hindutva dhism is part of Hinduism because remain under India’s rule, they cannot get just movement. It is time for the Sikh leadership Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, was born and fair treatment. The atrocities will continue. to stop kowtowing to the Indian government in India. Similarly, Guru Nanak was born This is unacceptable, Madam Speaker. and start protecting the interests of the Hindu, so they proclaim Sikhism to be part We should be on record in support of self- Sikh Nation. He should immediately sever of Hinduism. Yet Guru Nanak said that he determination for Khalistan and throughout the his alliance with the BJP. As every Sikh was ‘‘neither Hindu nor Muslim.’’ Jesus was subcontinent. We should also stop our aid and knows, the BJP is determined to destroy the born Jewish. Does that mean that Christi- Sikh religion and the Sikh Nation. anity is merely part of Judaism? trade with India until it learns to respect the Dr. K.S. Aulakh (no relation) recently re- human rights of all people. This is in accord On this auspicious occasion celebrating the signed as Vice Chancellor of Punjab Agricul- birth of the Khalsa Panth, we must bring with American principles and these are prac- tural University after Mr. Badal ordered him back our Khalsa spirit. We must remember tical steps we can take to bring real freedom to open the University gate, which had been our heritage and tradition of ‘‘Khalsa Bagi to South Asia. closed because of robberies and a murder, Yan Badshah’’ by committing ourselves to [April 4, 2007] something that he could not do. Dr. G.S. freeing our homeland, Punjab, Khalistan, Kalkat, former Vice chancellor of PAU and VAISAKHI DAY MESSAGE TO THE SIKH NATION from Indian Occupation. We need a new Sikh chairman of the Punjab Farmers Commis- political party which has a dedication to the DEAR KHALSA JI: WAHEGURU JI KA sion, described this resignation as unfortu- KHALSA, WAHEGURU JI KI FATEH! interests of the Sikh Nation as its sole objec- nate and said there should be no political in- tive, to establish Khalsa Raj by liberating On April 13, the Sikh Nation will celebrate terference in the workings of the University Vaisakhi Day, observing the 308th anniver- Khalistan, severing all political ties with could not be tolerated. Dr. Darshan Singh, India. sary of the day Guru Gobind Singh estab- former Dean of Postgraduate Studies at lished the Khalsa Panth. I would like to take The Indian government wants to break the PAU; Dr. D.R. Bhumbla, former Vice Chan- will of the Sikh Nation and enslave them for- this opportunity to wish you and your family cellor of Haryana Agricultura University; and friends and all Sikhs a Happy Vaisakhi ever, making Sikhism a part of Hinduism. Prof. Pritpal Singh Kapur, former pro-Vice This can only be stopped if we free Punjab Day. As you know, Vaisakhi Day is the anni- Chancellor of Guru Nanak Dev University; versary of the founding of the Khalsa. On from Delhi’s control and reestablish a sov- Dr. Darsban Singh, former Dean of Post- ereign, independent country, as declared on Vaisakhi Day in 1699, Guru Gobind Singh graduate Studies at PAU; and Lt. Col. baptized the Sikhs and required them to October 7, 1987. We must recommit ourselves Chanan Singh Dhillon, retired President of to freeing our homeland, Punjab, Khalistan. keep the five Ks. He made the Sikhs into the Indian Ex-Services League; among oth- saints and soldiers, giving the blessing ‘‘In Raise slogans of ‘‘Khalsa Bagi Yan ers, were also critical of Badal’s political in- Badshah,’’ ‘‘Raj Kare Ga Khalsa,’’ grieb Sikhin ko deon Patshani’’ (‘‘I give sov- terference. Dr. K.S. Aulakh was appointed by ereignty to the humble Sikhs.’’) Just two ‘‘Khalistan Zindabad,’’ and ‘‘India out of Mr. Badal several years ago when Badal was Khalistan.’’ Use this vaisakhi to launch a years after his departure from this earthly Chief Minister before, so this was an unusu- plane in 1708, the Sikhs established their own Shantmai Morcha to liberate Khalistan. In ally courageous act on his part and he is to spite of India’s best efforts, they cannot ar- independent state in Punjab. Today we be saluted for it. Mr. Badal is Chief Minister struggle to regain the sovereignty that Guru rest all of us. Their jails are overflowing as of Punjab. Why doesn’t he even want to pro- it is. We must keep the pressure on every Gobind Singh bestowed upon us over 300 tect the students, faculty, and staff at PAU years ago. day to force India to withdraw from our from robberies and murders? homeland and allow the glow of freedom in We must remind ourselves of our heritage Jathedar Joginder Singh Vedanti is an- Khalistan. by raising slogans of ‘‘Khalistan Zindabad’’ other who is under Indian government con- The flame of freedom still burns brightly and beginning a Shantmai Morcha to lib- trol. A couple of years ago, he was quoted as in Punjab in spite of the Indian govern- erate our homeland, Khalistan. Every morn- saying, ‘‘We don’t want separate territory.’’ ment’s brutal repression. Perhaps this is why ing and evening we recite, ‘‘Raj Kare Ga Apparently, Vedanti would rather maintain India is afraid to hold a free and fair vote on Khalsa.’’ Now is the time to act on it. Do we the oppression and the atrocities against the the subject of independence. The essence of mean what we say every morning and Sikh Nation than enjoy the glow of freedom, democracy is the right to self-determination. evening? as promised to us at the time of independ- The time to achieve our independence is Last week, Dr. Awatar Singh Sekhon, ence. Has he forgotten our heritage of free- now. Always remember our heritage: Raj Managing Editor of the International Jour- dom? How can the spiritual leader of the Kare Ga Khalsa; Khalsa Bagi Yan Badshah. nal of Sikh Affairs, representing the Council Sikh religion deny the Sikh Nation’s legiti- Freedom for Khalistan is closer than ever. of Khalistan, presented a memorandum on mate aspiration for freedom and sov- We must rededicate ourselves to achieving Sikh sovereignty and the release of the Sikh ereignty? Is he not stung by the words of one it. political and non-political prisoners in India of his predecessors, former AkalTakht Pantha Da Sewadar, to the United Nations Human Rights Com- Jathedar Professor Darshan Singh, who said, DR. GURMIT SINGH AULAKH mission in Geneva. The memorandum dis- ‘‘If a Sikh is not a Khalistani, he is not a President, Council of Khalistan. cussed the Human Rights Violations, perse- Sikh’’? Is Akal Takht occupied by a person cution, torture, genocide of Sikhs since 1984 who does not believe in Sikh values and Sikh f as well as the current situation in Punjab, aspirations? Khalistan. The ongoing effort to reclaim the Sikhs can never forgive or forget the In- INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION freedom that is our birthright took another dian government’s military attack on the CONDEMNING IN THE STRONG- step forward with this delivery. Golden Temple and 125 other Gurdwaras EST TERMS THE RECENT TER- The Sikhs in Punjab have suffered enor- throughout Punjab. Over 20,000 Sikhs were RORISTS ATTACKS THAT OC- mous repression at the hands of the Indian murdered in those attacks as Operation CURRED IN CASABLANCA, MO- regime in the last 23 years. The Indian gov- Bluestar, including Sant Jarnail Singh ROCCO AND IN ALGIERS, ALGE- ernment has murdered over 250,000 Sikhs Bhindranwale, General Shabeg Singh, Bhai since 1984. In addition, over 50,000 Sikh youth Amrik Singh, and over 100 Sikh religious RIA were picked up from their houses, tortured, students ages 8–13 who were taken out into murdered in police Custody, then secretly the courtyard and shot. These attacks accel- HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS cremated as ‘‘unidentified bodies.’’ Their re- erated the Sikh independence movement and OF FLORIDA mains were never even given to their fami- deepened the desire for independence in the lies! Over 52,000 Sikhs sit in Indian jails as hearts of Sikhs, a fire that burns brightly in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES political prisoners without charge or trial, the hearts of the Sikh Nation to this day. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 according to a report by the Movement Sant Bhindranwale said that the attack on Against State Repression (MASR.) Some of the Golden Temple would ‘‘lay the founda- Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Madam Speaker, them have been in illegal custody for over 20 tion stone of Khalistan’’ and he was right. I rise today to introduce a resolution con- years! Repression and genocide of this mag- Khalsa Ji, at this time of Vaisakhi, the demning in the strongest terms the recent ter- nitude at the hands of the Indian govern- whole Khalsa Panth must be energized to re- rorist attacks in Morocco and Algeria. ment is unparallelled in the late part of the establish a sovereign, independent Khalsa Often times we forget that we are not the 20th century. India should be ashamed of the Raj by freeing our homeland, Khalistan. It is only country or people affected by the scourge time for Sikhs to look back at our history of genocide it has committed against Sikhs, of international terrorism. Radical extremists Christians, Muslims, and other minorities. persecution and suffering over the past two Recently, Chief Minister Badal backed off decades. The Hindu government of India, have affected and disrupted the lives of many his promise to repeal Section 5 of the Punjab whether run by the Congress Party of by the of our friends and allies all over the world. Termination of Agreement Act, the section BJP, wants minorities either subservient to Daily, we see images and hear stories of bla- that allowed the free transfer of Punjab’s Hinduism or completely wiped out. In spite tant, unprovoked, vicious attacks on innocent

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E764 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 men, women and children. Our enemy is not There is an urgent need for significant crop tiveness Act.’’ I introduced legislation in both limited to fighting on a military battlefield. Our insurance reform that will offer hard-working the 108th and 109th Congresses focused on enemy does not discern its victims on the farmers the tools they need to manage the strengthening U.S. manufacturing, and both basis of race, religion or nationality. unique risks involved in agricultural production. times it was passed by the House. I am The most recent examples of this complete This approach of individual risk management pleased that this bill contains many of the disregard for human life are the attacks occur- accounts could address many of the problems same provisions as well as others, since the ring this last week in Morocco and Algeria. Not associated with the current crop insurance global competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing only did the attacks result in several deaths system and save the Federal government remains a pressing issue. and injuries, but whole communities were dev- money by alleviating the future need for ad The President’s American Competitiveness astated and thrown into extreme chaos. hoc disaster assistance. Most importantly, it Initiative (ACI), started in 2006, launched a The people and governments of Morocco will give farmers struggling against natural three-pronged approach to competitiveness by and Algeria must know that we stand behind forces beyond their control greater flexibility to strengthening research at the National them and that America does not condone any make a living while performing the vital task of Science Foundation, Office of Science at the act of terrorism, killing several people and putting food on America’s table. Department of Energy, and the laboratories devastating communities by the chaos and f and construction of the National Institute of havoc wreaked by them. Standards and Technology (NIST). This bill I am pleased my colleague and friend, Rep- HONORING THE LIFE AND addresses the last of these agencies by fully resentative MICHAEL ROGERS from Michigan, ACHIEVEMENTS OF JACKIE ROB- supporting the ACI requested improvements, has joined me as an original cosponsor of this INSON as well as reauthorizing programs at NIST cru- resolution. I strongly urge our colleagues to cial to our global competitiveness. support it and urge its swift consideration. HON. DANNY K. DAVIS Although manufacturing has experienced f OF ILLINOIS tremendous technological gains over the last FARM RISK MANAGEMENT ACT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES few years, international competition has ex- Tuesday, April 17, 2007 acted a terrible toll on our nation’s manufacturers. In particular, our small and medium-sized HON. TERRY EVERETT Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise firms are under tremendous pressure to be- OF ALABAMA today to honor the life and groundbreaking ac- come more efficient, to modernize, and to cut IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES complishments of Jackie Robinson, on the oc- their prices. There is no evidence that these casion of the 60th anniversary of integrated Tuesday, April 17, 2007 pressures are likely to go away. Major League Baseball. Sixty years ago this Mr. EVERETT. Madam Speaker, I intro- month, Jackie Robinson overcame institu- This bill will help address long-term prob- duced legislation today, along with my Ala- tionalized opposition to become the first Afri- lems facing our nation’s manufacturers by bama colleagues Reps. SPENCER BACHUS, JO can-American Major League Baseball player. broadening and strengthening manufacturing BONNER, BUD CRAMER, and MIKE ROGERS, to He proved himself to be among the best that extension services and creating a new pro- enable America’s farmers to better manage have ever played the game. He was a mem- gram to revive manufacturing innovation the risk to their livelihoods in times of severe ber of six World Series teams and earned six through collaborative research and develop- weather and skyrocketing energy costs. The consecutive All-Star Game nominations. In ment. Farm Risk Management Act (FARM Act) 1962 Jackie Robinson was inducted into the would create risk management accounts, Specifically, this bill will address the com- Baseball Hall of Fame. using both USDA and individual farmer con- petitiveness needs of our Nation by: In addition to his multiple sports accomplish- tributions, to reduce the financial impact of dis- ments, Jackie Robinson accomplished great Reauthorizing the critical programs at the asters on the agriculture community. The things in his personal life. He was a key figure National Institute of Standards and Tech- FARM Act would allow farmers to insure their in the establishment a growth of Freedom nology (NIST), a federal research laboratory income by creating a whole-farm risk manage- Bank. He also served with honor and distinc- dedicated to ensuring U.S. leadership in tech- ment program based on total revenues from tion as a second lieutenant in the United nology-based standards and industries; cre- all their farming activities. This is a departure States Army from 1942–1944. In 1984, he was ating a new collaborative research and devel- from the current crop insurance program, awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It opment program for manufacturing technology; which provides coverage based on a specific gives me great pride to have served during creating a fellowship program at NIST to de- commodity. The new risk management ac- the 108th Congress when we awarded Jackie velop U.S. manufacturing research expertise; count goes beyond the scope of current crop Robinson the Congressional Gold Medal. reauthorizing and creating a new grant pro- insurance by allowing farmers to withdraw gram within the Manufacturing Extension Part- funds from their accounts to help offset any Throughout his life Jackie Robinson stood up against inequality, served as a great role nership (MEP) program so that the MEP Cen- unforeseen farm expense including high enters can extend their expertise to a range of ergy or fertilizer costs. With my new proposal, model for all American citizens, and proved that anything is possible. I recall one story that problems beyond their current scope of activi- a farmer would deposit money into the new ties; and establishing the Technology Innova- risk management account. The U.S. Depart- exemplified his commitment to justice, when he faced court-martial charges for insubordina- tion Program and Advisory Board to help bring ment of Agriculture would then match the more innovative technologies to market. farmer’s contribution in this tax-deferred, inter- tion resulting from his refusal to obey an order est-bearing account, rather than subsidizing a to move to the back of a segregated military I want to thank Chairman GORDON and portion of the crop insurance premium for the bus in Texas. I salute Jackie Robinson and Ranking Member HALL for working in a bipar- farmer as is done presently. As a result, farm- commend him on his life of accomplishment. tisan manner to introduce this bill, which ad- ers would effectively be self-insured. f dresses such an important topic to our nation. More and more, we are seeing farmers lose I appreciate the efforts of the majority to con- INTRODUCTION OF THE TECH- their farms due to the unfortunate combination sider the input of the minority members of the NOLOGY INNOVATION AND MAN- of increasingly harsh weather, rising oper- Science and Technology Committee. UFACTURING STIMULATION ACT ational costs and a Federal crop insurance OF 2007 Madam Speaker, it is incredibly important to program that is too expensive to help many our future for this nation to remain competitive cover their losses. Recent Farm Bill hearings today. Congress must provide a coherent fed- and subsequent meetings I have had with HON. VERNON J. EHLERS eral response to the changes that are under- farmers in the Southeast have led me to the OF MICHIGAN way in manufacturing, and to support the tech- conclusion that current crop insurance pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nological innovation that is fundamental to re- grams are not working. The present system is taining our manufacturing strength. This bill Tuesday, April 17, 2007 too expensive, leaving many farmers exposed provides a mechanism for that crucial re- to uncontrollable risks. It also allows room for Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, I rise today sponse and I look forward to working with my fraud which only serves to drive up program to introduce with my colleagues ‘‘The Tech- colleagues on this issue in the 110th Con- costs for everyone. nology Innovation and Manufacturing Competi- gress.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E765 INTRODUCTION OF THE LIBRARIAN area libraries lack the resources to attract well neer and innovator in winemaking and excep- INCENTIVE TO BOOST RECRUIT- qualified staff. Moreover, most librarians look tional example of the American entrepreneurial MENT AND RETENTION IN to relocate to highly desirable areas creating spirit. Born on March 18, 1909 near Modesto, AREAS OF NEED (LIBRARIAN) an even greater difficulty for low-income area California, Ernest Gallo grew up working with ACT OF 2007 libraries to attract qualified candidates to fill his brother, Julio, in a vineyard owned by their job openings. immigrant father. With less than $6,000 and a HON. XAVIER BECERRA Earlier this year, I received first-hand con- pamphlet from the Modesto Public Library, the firmation that if the LIBRARIAN Act passed we OF CALIFORNIA brothers founded E & J Gallo Winery in 1933. could attract more students to the profession. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES From these humble beginnings, Ernest and his A young student in my district who had brother built a wine empire, bringing a love of Tuesday, April 17, 2007 learned about the LIBRARIAN Act wrote to me wine to the U.S. customer and permanently Mr. BECERRA. Madam Speaker, I rise stating that she would now consider a career establishing California as the epicenter of today to introduce bipartisan legislation, the Li- as a librarian and gladly work in a low-income America’s wine industry. Today, E & J Gallo brarian Incentive to Boost Recruitment and community. Previously, this student had not Winery produces approximately 900 million Retention in Areas of Need (LIBRARIAN) Act entertained the idea of becoming a librarian. bottles annually, selling them under 40 dif- There is strong precedent in law for can- of 2007, with Representatives VERNON EHLERS ferent labels and distributing to 90 different celing student loans under the Federal Perkins (MI–3), RAU´ L GRIJALVA (AZ–07), and JOHN countries. Throughout the years, Gallo re- Loan program. Several categories of profes- SHIMKUS (IL–19). Senators JACK REED (RI) ceived honors for his achievements in and THAD COCHRAN (MS) will also be intro- sionals who service low-income areas currently receive such a benefit. Teachers work- winemaking by a host of organizations ranging ducing a companion measure today in the from the American Society of Enologists Merit Senate. The LIBRARIAN Act of 2007, which is ing in special education, Head Start and educationally disadvantaged schools under the Award for outstanding leadership in the wine endorsed by the American Library Association, industry to the Gold Vine Award from the will offer much needed help to recruit and re- Title I Program, special education and Head Start, as well as members of the armed serv- Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine wine tain librarians in schools and public libraries fraternity and the 1983 Distinguished Service located in low-income areas. We accomplish ices, law enforcement officers, Peace Corps volunteers, medical technicians and nurses Award from The Wine Spectator. In recent this by establishing a loan forgiveness pro- can qualify for forgiveness of their Federal years, Gallo Winery has continued this trend gram for college students who obtain a mas- Perkins student loans. of excellence, being named Winery of the ter’s degree in library science and latter com- Specifically, the LIBRARIAN Act allows Fed- Year in 1996 and 1998 by the San Francisco mit to serve as librarians in disadvantaged eral Perkins loan cancellation for full-time li- International Wine Competition and being communities. brarians with a master’s degree in library named ‘‘Wine of the Century’’ at the Los An- The introduction of the LIBRARIAN Act is sciences who are employed in: a public library geles County Fair wine competition. These timely since today we celebrate National Li- that serves a geographic area that contains honors are owed in no small part to the pas- brary Workers Day. Our Nation’s public and one or more schools eligible for educationally sion and innovation of Ernest Gallo. In his school libraries and the people who keep them disadvantaged school funding under Title I; or passing, we have lost an American legend open are national treasures. Every day, these an elementary or secondary school library that and a dear friend. libraries provide an invaluable public good to is eligible for educationally disadvantaged f our communities. Together they offer crucial school funding under Title 1. access to education, skills training and unique Librarians working full-time in these areas TRIBUTE TO SHAWNEE MISSION information. These services are particularly im- would qualify for up to 100 percent Federal UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST portant in low-income communities where re- Perkins loan forgiveness depending on their CHURCH sources are often scarce. years of service as a librarian in the disadvan- Unfortunately, libraries are losing their most taged schools or public libraries. Specifically, HON. DENNIS MOORE valuable asset: librarians. According to a 2002 they would qualify for: 15 percent loan forgive- OF KANSAS School Library Journal survey, 30 states and ness for each of the first and second years of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the District of Columbia reported either a se- such service; 20 percent loan forgiveness for vere or extremely severe librarian shortage. each of the third and fourth years of such Tuesday, April 17, 2007 The librarian shortage is attributed to two prin- service; and 30 percent loan forgiveness for Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Madam Speaker, cipal factors. First, an alarming number of li- the fifth year of such service. the Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist brarians have reached the age of retirement Since loan forgiveness would apply to the Church has been an important presence in the and the number is expected to increase dra- years of services that are completed after the City of Overland Park and Johnson County, matically in the next decade. The American Li- enactment of this Act, students entering a li- Kansas, since 1967. brary Association, the oldest and largest library sciences program and librarians with In 1970 the Church, sited on historical brary association in the world, projects that outstanding Federal Perkins loans stand to grounds that date to the 1871 Breyfogle Farm, between 60 to 65 percent of currently prac- benefit. In the end, the susceptible commu- the 1913 Mathey Farm, and the 1948 ticing librarians will retire by the year 2020. nities that are detrimentally affected by a li- Burgdorfer Farm, purchased the house and The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics brarian shortage stand to benefit the most barn, vintage 1913, from a previous church estimates that more than three out of five li- from this bill. congregation. This site will be the location of brarians are aged 45 years or older—many of Madam Speaker, it is time to take steps to- the Church’s 40th anniversary celebration, fol- these librarians will become eligible to retire in wards alleviating this shortage of librarians in lowing its worship service on May 20, 2007. the next 10 years. America. The loan forgiveness provisions of The Church has provided liberal religious The second factor causing the librarian the LIBRARIAN Act will be a valuable tool in services and education for adults and children, shortage is that libraries are now in direct attracting some of our brightest and best stu- has sponsored forums with knowledgeable competition with highly salaried private sectors dents to become tomorrow’s educators in the speakers on public issues, has initiated a needing workers with librarian skills such as communities where they are most needed. I pathfinding Coming of Age program for youth those in multimedia technology, database ad- urge my colleagues to join us in supporting in the denomination, and has presented a na- ministration and systems analysis. Today it is the passage of this important legislation. tionally-recognized World Religion Series. Ad- not uncommon to encounter a librarian earn- f ditionally, the Church has promoted democ- ing less than $29,000 annually, despite the HONORING THE LIFE OF ERNEST racy by serving as a voting site in the commu- fact that the position is highly specialized and GALLO nity and has encouraged members to support requires a master’s degree in library science. many local, national, and international chari- Not surprisingly, librarians are increasingly SPEECH OF table efforts including SafeHome, Johnson leaving their profession and using their invalu- HON. JIM COSTA County Interfaith Hospitality Network, Habitat able education and experience in other more for Humanity, Crosslines, American Indian OF CALIFORNIA lucrative employment arenas. Center, Million Voices for Darfur, UNICEF, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sadly, low-income community libraries will many others. suffer most from the coming librarian shortage. Monday, April 16, 2007 Through the years the Church has been a While well-funded suburban libraries can af- Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, this week the good neighbor to the surrounding residential ford to recruit and retain librarians, low-income House voted to honor Mr. Ernest Gallo, a pio- area through its maintenance of buildings and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E766 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2007 grounds, including the front garden which has PLAINVIEW SCHOLAR, LEADER MOURNED sion which he worked for, that is serving hu- been recognized as a Certified Wildlife Habitat AFTER HIT-AND-RUN DEATH manity and working hard to liberate by the National Wildlife Federation. The GURCHARAN SINGH, 77, TAUGHT AT COLUMBIA, Khalistan from Indian occupation. Only in a Church also is a member in good standing of MARYMOUNT MANHATTAN COLLEGE free Khalistan will the Sikh religion flourish and the Sikh Nation prosper.’’ PLAINVIEW, N.Y.—A family and a commu- the Unitarian Universalist Association [UUA], Professor Gurcharan Singh was well known nity were mourning Saturday night the the international umbrella group of UU con- as a humanitarian on Long Island. ‘‘My fa- death of beloved professor and role model gregations and has been certified as a Wel- ther was a very selfless man who served his killed by a hit-and-run driver on Long Is- coming Congregation by UUA. community and society with all his heart,’’ land, NewsChannel 4’s Aimee Nuzzo reported. Madam Speaker, the members of the Shaw- said his son Surinder Singh, He served as a Gurcharan Singh, 77, a scholar and a pro- counselor to the New York Sikh community nee Mission Unitarian Universalist Church are fessor, was also a counselor to New York’s and was a philanthropist. celebrating the past and present successes of Sikh community and a philanthropist de- their church community and are planning for Professor Gurcharan Singh was also a voted to bringing people of different faiths strong supporter of Khalistan, the inde- the future of their church community. I am and nationalities together, according to fam- pendent Sikh homeland that declared its pleased to join with, Johnson County, the City ily and friends. independence from India on October 7, 1987. of Overland Park and with men and women of ‘‘He is the gem of our community,’’ said In that effort, he served as an advisor to the goodwill throughout the Kansas City metropoli- friend Paul Kandhari. ‘‘If there was a family President of the Council of Khalistan, which tan area in recognizing and congratulating the problem, he’ll be there. If the father and son leads the peaceful, democratic, nonviolent have a problem, he’ll be there.’’ Shawnee Mission Unitarian Universalist effort to liberate Khalistan. He accompanied The Plainview father of three and grand- Dr. Aulakh whenever he went to talk to the Church upon its 40th anniversary as a vibrant father was struck and killed by a hit-and-run member of the metropolitan area’s interfaith United Nations Human Rights Commission. driver while walking from his home to His death was reported on WNBC–TV New communities. church Friday night. York and on its website; on Indo-Asian News f Dr. Singh was crossing Old Country Road Service; on Sikh media outlets; on a variety in Plainview just after 8 p.m. headed for the of websites; and on other media outlets. IN MEMORY OF DR. GURCHARAN Sikh temple, when a red or maroon car trav- ‘‘Professor Gurcharan Singh’s passing is a SINGH, HUMANITARIAN AND eling westbound ran a red light, struck him loss to the Sikh Nation, to the people of FREEDOM ACTIVIST and kept going, police told Nuzzo. Long Island and America, to his family and Singh was airlifted to Nassau University friends, and to friends of freedom,’’ said Dr. Medical Center with multiple fractures and Aulakh. ‘‘May God bless this departed soul.’’ HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS head trauma, but he did not survive. OF NEW YORK ‘‘My father was a very selfless man who f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES served his community and society with all FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY OF THE Tuesday, April 17, 2007 his heart, and we’d really love any assistance ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITIES in finding the individual who did this,’’ said FOR RESEARCH IN ASTRONOMY Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I was dis- Surinder Singh, the victim’s son. tressed to learn that Dr. Gurcharan Singh, a Anyone with information about the mishap Sikh scholar from Long lsland, was killed was asked to call Nassau County Crime Stop- HON. GABRIELLE GIFFORDS March 31 in a hit-and-run traffic accident. Pro- pers at 1–800–244–TIPS. OF ARIZONA fessor Singh was on his way to the Gurdwara Once a professor at Columbia University, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Singh taught political science and inter- (the Sikh place of worship) at the time. The Tuesday, April 17, 2007 driver has not yet been found. national studies at Marymount Manhattan Professor Singh was a professor at College for more than three decades and con- Ms. GIFFORDS. Madam Speaker, this Marymount Manhattan College and a leader In tinued to teach part-time, Nuzzo said. month marks the fiftieth anniversary of the A statement from Marymount Manhattan the Sikh community in New York. He was a founding of the Association of Universities for College said the ‘‘community is deeply sad- Research in Astronomy AURA. In 1957, seven father and grandfather. According to WNBC– dened by the news of Professor Singh’s TV, he was ‘‘a counselor to New York’s Sikh death. He served as a devoted teacher at the universities banded together to form a new community and a philanthropist devoted to college for many years, and his loss will be type of consortium that would establish a na- bringing people of different faiths and nation- felt by all of our faculty, staff, students and tional astronomical observatory available to all alities together.’’ He was also an activist in alumni. Our thoughts are with his family astronomers on a merit basis. This new con- support of Sikh freedom, serving as an advisor during this difficult time.’’ Dr. Singh’s sortium, AURA, sought access to the clearest to the Council of Khalistan, which leads the ef- friends said they have no doubt the selfless skies and best observing sites available. They humanitarian would have forgiven the hit- fort to free the Sikh homeland, Khalistan, from established their headquarters in Tucson, AZ, and-run driver who took his life. They said and over the ensuing years built the Kitt Peak Indian occupation. In that capacity, he would they hoped that would help whoever is re- accompany the Council’s President, Dr. sponsible to come forward. National Observatory and a sister observatory Gurmit Singh Aulakh, when he would go to the in Chile known as the Cerro Tololo Inter-Amer- U.N. Human Rights Commission. [Council of Khalistan Press Release] ican Observatory. Prior to teaching at Marymount, Dr. Singh DR. GURCHARAN SINGH, ADVISOR TO COUNCIL The establishment of AURA took place in an had been a professor at Columbia University. OF KHALISTAN, KILLED IN HIT-AND-RUN environment in which the National Science He taught political science and international TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Foundation was only 5 years old and the es- studies. LEADING SIKH SCHOLAR, TEACHER, tablishment of a space agency was still to The Council of Khalistan issued a press re- HUMANITARIAN come. AURA saw the need for the astronom- lease about Dr. Singh’s passing. It was also WASHINGTON, DC, Apr. 4, 2007—Dr. Gurmit ical community to organize itself, to work to- reported on WNBC Channel 4 in New York, Singh Aulakh, President of the Council of ward common goals, and to create scientific on Yahoo News, on several Sikh and South Khalistan, today expressed ‘‘deepest sym- opportunities for all. AURA and other public Asian news outlets, and around the Internet. pathies’’ to the family and friends of Pro- observatories helped advance the field of U.S. On behalf of all my colleagues, I wish to ex- fessor Gurcharan Singh, a leading Sikh astronomy. tend the sympathies of the U.S. Congress to scholar and a teacher at Marymount Man- From these beginnings, AURA has ex- Dr. Singh’s family, friends, and students. I’m hattan College. Professor Gurcharan Singh tended our view of the universe and ourselves was killed by a hit-and-run driver about 8:00 sure that everyone joins me in this. I know p.m. on the evening of March 31 as he was with its visionary planning for what is now the that he will leave a void that will be very dif- heading to the Gurdwara. Hubble Space Telescope, which AURA oper- ficult to fill. ‘‘Professor Gurcharan Singh leaves a vacu- ates from its Space Telescope Science Insti- Madam Speaker, the best tribute we could um that will be hard to fill, not only within tute in Baltimore. It also paved the way for the pay to Dr. Singh is to continue his work, as the Sikh community and Nassau County, but giant ground based telescopes known as the Dr. Aulakh points out. This Congress can help for his family, friends, students, and the International Gemini Observatory, in Hawaii by stopping aid to India and trade with that many whose lives he touched,’’ said Dr. and Chile. country until all people there enjoy human Aulakh, ‘‘He will be greatly missed. I am AURA has helped astronomy move to a proud that he was my friend.’’ rights and by going on record in support of ‘‘Only God gives life and takes life. As central position in national and international self-determination for Dr. Singh’s Sikh Nation human beings, we are helpless. ‘Ghale Aawe scientific research with increasingly strong ties and for the Nagas, Kashmiris, and all the peo- Nanka Sadhe Uthin Jai.’ We can only mourn to many other areas of the physical sciences ple seeking freedom in India. Self-determina- his loss but the best tribute to Dr. and the fundamental questions that they ad- tion is the essence of democracy. Gurcharan Singh will be to continue his mis- dress.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E767 For example, on the largest scales in the who is celebrating the 50th anniversary of his of 2007. I join my colleagues from the Science field of cosmology, astrophysics and particle ordination to the Priesthood. In the past 50 and Technology Committee, Mr. WU, Mr. GOR- physics increasingly view the universe as the years countless individuals, both Catholic and DON, Mr. HALL and Mr. EHLERS, in introducing ultimate ‘‘high-energy laboratory’’, which may not, have experienced the wisdom and love of this important bill that will ensure our Nation’s be the only way to address questions about Bishop D’Arcy and each of them can be grate- technological competitiveness for decades to the fundamental nature of matter and space ful for having known him. come. itself. Observations made at AURA observ- Bishop D’Arcy, the son of Irish immigrants, The President’s American Competitiveness atories both on the ground and in space have was born on August 18, 1932. He recalls feel- Initiative (ACI) provides a foundation to keep revealed the existence of both dark matter and ing called to the priesthood at a very young our country competitive in the ever-expanding dark energy. At the other extreme of scale, age, hoping to follow in the footsteps of his global marketplace. The Technology Innova- astrobiology is synthesizing research in as- childhood priests. Immediately following high tion and Manufacturing Stimulation Act plays tronomy, biology, and chemistry and is emerg- school he entered Saint John’s Seminary in an important role in fulfilling this initiative by ing as a field in itself. Again, observations at Brighton, Massachusetts. For the next 8 years reauthorizing the National Institute of Stand- AURA’s observatories are beginning a quest Bishop D’Arcy developed his spiritual knowl- ards and Technology, or NIST. NIST labs to search for the presence of life and ulti- edge and prepared to serve his community. serve almost every Federal agency and U.S. After Seminary, Bishop D’Arcy studied in mately understand its origins both within our industry by providing reliable and dependable Rome at the Angelicum where he received his solar system and in our galaxy. standards, measurements, and certification doctorate in spiritual theology in 1968. He re- Looking to the near future and the advent of services. the James Webb Space Telescope and a turned to St. John’s Seminary where he Giant Segmented Mirror Telescope, we hope served as spiritual director and professor until As Congress looks to the future of the tech- to see the light from the first stars in the Uni- 1985, guiding many young men in their jour- nology industry in this country, NIST research verse, to catch galaxies as they are first as- ney to the priesthood. As a result of his years will prove to be indispensable in the matura- sembling, investigate the nature of dark matter of faith and service, John D’Arcy was ordained tion of cutting-edge basic research in becom- and dark energy, understand how black holes auxiliary bishop in his native Boston in 1975. ing successful commercial products. Emerging are formed, and take a census of extrasolar Bishop D’Arcy was appointed the eighth fields such as nanotechnology and bio- planets with masses extending from that of Ju- Bishop of Fort Wayne-South Bend on the 26th engineering are dependent on scientifically- piter down to masses comparable to that of of February, 1985. During his tenure, he has based industrial measurements and standards the Earth. With the Advanced Technology focused extensively on enlarging the Catholic to see that advanced laboratory research can Solar Telescope, we hope to observe the Sun community in faith and numbers. His focus on make that leap into practical industrial applica- at the smallest scales possible and under- education has led to the expansion of Catholic tions. I recently visited some of NIST’s labora- stand the fundamental workings of our closest education across the diocese. With the cre- tories and was amazed by the fascinating and star. These questions are not just at the fore- ation of the South Bend Chancery and other vital work its scientists perform. front of astronomical research, but are ones church offices Bishop D’Arcy gave many more H.R. 1868 includes 3-year authorization lev- that have captured the public’s interest and people access to Catholic services. els for NIST’s laboratories which are con- imagination. So, today I rise to pay tribute to Bishop sistent with the ACI’s goal to double the na- Madam Speaker, I ask all of my colleagues John D’Arcy for his years of dedication to the tion’s investment in physical science research to join me in commending AURA for its ac- people of Indiana. His 50 years of selfless by 2017. The Technology Innovation and Man- complishments over the past fifty years. From service will always be remembered by those ufacturing Stimulation Act also authorizes the a humble idea born in Tucson, AZ, to the whose lives are better because of his kind- Manufacturing Extension Partnership program- outer reaches of the universe, AURA has ness and compassion. May God grant Bishop a cost-sharing program that provides technical made a major contribution to U.S. science and D’Arcy many more years of strength and cour- and business assistance to small and me- to our cultural heritage. age. His service to the people of Indiana has dium-sized manufacturers. This assistance f truly been a blessing. has a proven track record in the manufac- f turing industry to help companies remain com- HONORING THE MOST REVEREND petitive in the global marketplace by improving JOHN MICHAEL D’ARCY, BISHOP INTRODUCTION OF H.R. 1868, THE productivity and efficiency. In addition, this leg- OF THE DIOCESE OF FORT TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION AND islation authorizes the Technology Innovation WAYNE-SOUTH BEND MANUFACTURING STIMULATION ACT OF 2007 Program that provides grants that encourage the development of high-risk, innovative tech- HON. JOE DONNELLY nologies that will provide widespread eco- OF INDIANA HON. PHIL GINGREY nomic benefits to companies across the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF GEORGIA United States. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, April 17, 2007 I thank Chairman WU for incorporating our Mr. DONNELLY. Madam Speaker, I rise Tuesday, April 17, 2007 priorities for NIST into this comprehensive au- today to express my congratulations to the Mr. GINGREY. Madam Speaker, I rise today thorization bill and I look forward to working Most Reverend John Michael D’Arcy, Bishop as an original co-sponsor of the Technology with my Science Committee colleagues to en- of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Innovation and Manufacturing Stimulation Act sure quick action on this important bill.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:20 May 14, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD07\E17AP7.REC E17AP7 mmaher on PROD1PC69 with CONG-REC-ONLINE Tuesday, April 17, 2007 Daily Digest Senate Rockefeller (for Bond) Amendment No. 858, to Chamber Action improve the notification of Congress regarding intel- Routine Proceedings, pages S4551–S4622 ligence activities of the United States Government. Measures Introduced: Nineteen bills and four reso- Pages S4560, S4561 lutions were introduced, as follows: S. 14, Rockefeller (for Bond) Modified Amendment No. 1120–1137, and S. Res. 150–153. Pages S4599–S4600 860, to modify the requirements for the report on any clandestine prison or detention facility for indi- Measures Passed: viduals captured in the global war on terrorism. Commending University of Wyoming Cowgirls: Page S4560 Senate agreed to S. Res. 151, commending the Uni- Rockefeller (for Bond/Rockefeller) Modified versity of Wyoming Cowgirls for their championship Amendment No. 861, to clarify the national security victory in the Women’s National Invitation Tour- mission of the National Geospatial-Intelligence nament. Page S4620 Agency. Pages S4560, S4561 Honoring Jackie Robinson: Senate agreed to S. Rockefeller (for Bond/Rockefeller) Amendment Res. 152, honoring the lifetime achievements of No. 862, to change the name of the National Space Intelligence Center to the National Space Intel- Jackie Robinson. Page S4620 ligence Office. Pages S4560, S4561–62 Select Committee on Ethics Temporary Appoint- Rockefeller (for Bond/Rockefeller) Amendment ments: Senate agreed to S. Res. 153, making tem- No. 863, to modify the requirements related to the porary appointments to the Select Committee on Director and Deputy Director of the Central Intel- Ethics. Page S4620 ligence Agency. Pages S4560, S4562 National Missing Persons Day: Senate agreed to Rockefeller (for Bond/Rockefeller) Modified S. Res. 112, designating April 6, 2007, as ‘‘National Amendment No. 872, to modify requirements for Missing Persons Day’’. Pages S4620–21 the content of the report on compliance with the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005. Pages S4560, S4562 Intelligence Authorization Act: Senate continued Pending: consideration of S. 372, to authorize appropriations Rockefeller/Bond Amendment No. 843, in the na- for fiscal year 2007 for the intelligence and intel- ture of a substitute. Page S4559 ligence-related activities of the United States Gov- Collins Amendment No. 847 (to Amendment No. ernment, the Intelligence Community Management 843), to reaffirm the constitutional and statutory Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Re- protections accorded sealed domestic mail. tirement and Disability System, taking action on the Page S4559 following amendments proposed thereto: Cornyn Amendment No. 849 (to Amendment No. Pages S4559–87 843), to amend chapter 113B of title 18, United Adopted: States Code, to prohibit the recruitment of persons Rockefeller (for Bingaman) Modified Amendment to participate in terrorism, to provide remedies for No. 846, to require the Director of Science and immigration litigation, and to amend the Immigra- Technology of the Office of the Director of National tion and Nationality Act to modify the requirements Intelligence to develop 15-year projections and as- related to judicial review of visa revocation and to sessments of the needs of the intelligence community modify the requirements related to detention and re- to ensure a robust federal scientific and engineering moval of aliens ordered removed. Page S4560 workforce and the means to recruit such a workforce. Kyl Amendment No. 866 (to Amendment No. Pages S4560, S4561 849), to protect classified information. Page S4562 During consideration of this measure today, Senate also took the following action: D503

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST D504 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2007 Senate vitiated the adoption of the following Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. amendments: (Total—131) Page S4580 Rockefeller (for Bond) Amendment No. 856, to Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m., and ad- strike the requirement for a study on the disclosure journed at 7:25 p.m., until 8:30 a.m. on Wednes- of additional intelligence information. day, April 18, 2007. (For Senate’s program, see the Pages S4560, S4561, S4565 remarks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s Rockefeller (for Bond) Amendment No. 859, to Record on page S4622.) strike the pilot program on disclosure of records under the Privacy Act relating to certain intelligence Committee Meetings activities. Pages S4560, S4561, S4565 Pursuant to the order of April 17, 2007, the mo- (Committees not listed did not meet) tion to proceed to the motion to reconsider the vote by which cloture was not invoked on April 16, 2007 COMBATING AUTISM was agreed to. Page S4565 Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Pursuant to the order of April 17, 2007, the mo- Health and Human Services, and Education and Re- tion to reconsider the vote by which cloture was not lated Agencies held a hearing to examine the status invoked on April 16, 2007 was agreed to. Page S4565 of autism and autism research, receiving testimony By 50 yeas to 45 nays (Vote No. 131), three-fifths from Julie L. Gerberding, Director, Centers for Dis- of those Senators duly chosen and sworn, not having ease Control and Prevention, and Thomas R. Insel, voted in the affirmative, Senate upon reconsideration Director, National Institute of Mental Health, Na- rejected the motion to close further debate on the tional Institutes of Health, both of the Department bill. Page S4580 of Health and Human Services; Judith E. Favell, Ce- leste Foundation, Mount Dora, Florida; Robert C. Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Wright and Bradley Whitford, both of Autism Act and Court Security Improvement Act— Speaks, New York, New York; Marguerite Kirst Agreement: A unanimous-consent agreement was Colston, Autism Society of America, Bethesda, Mary- reached providing that at 9:30 a.m., on Wednesday, land; and Josh Cobbs, Sioux City, Iowa. April 18, 2007, Senate resume consideration of the Hearing recessed subject to the call. motion to proceed to consideration of S. 3, to amend part D of title XVIII of the Social Security Act to COMBAT READINESS provide for fair prescription drug prices for Medicare Committee on Armed Services: Committee concluded a beneficiaries, and vote on the motion to invoke clo- hearing to examine whether the Army and Marine ture on the motion to proceed thereon; provided fur- Corps are properly sized, organized, and equipped to ther that, prior to the vote on the motion to invoke respond to the most likely missions over the next cloture on the motion to proceed to S. 378, to two decades while retaining adequate capability to amend title 18, United States Code, to protect respond to all contingencies along the spectrum of judges, prosecutors, witnesses, victims, and their combat, after receiving testimony from Andrew F. family members; that there be 2 minutes of debate Krepinevich, Jr., Center for Strategic and Budgetary equally divided between Senators Leahy and Specter Assessments, and Lawrence J. Korb, Center for or their designees. Page S4622 American Progress, both of Washington, D.C.; Gen- Messages from the House: Page S4593 eral Barry R. McCaffrey (Ret.) USA, BR McCaffrey Associates LLC, Arlington, Virginia; and Major Gen- Measures Referred: Pages S4593–94 eral Robert H. Scales, Jr. (Ret.) USA, Colgen, Inc., Petitions and Memorials: Pages S4596–99 Dayton, Maryland. Executive Communications: Pages S4594–96 BUDGET: DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION Additional Cosponsors: Pages S4600–02 Committee on Armed Services: Committee met in closed Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: session to receive a briefing to examine the current Pages S4602–18 readiness of United States ground forces in review of the Defense Authorization Request for fiscal year Additional Statements: Pages S4592–93 2008 and the Future Years Defense Program, from Amendments Submitted: Pages S4618–19 Lieutenant General James J. Lovelace, Jr., USA, Notices of Hearings/Meetings: Pages S4619–20 Deputy Chief of Staff, G–3/5/7, Headquarters, De- partment of the Army, and Lieutenant General Rich- Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S4620 ard F. Natonski, USMC, Deputy Commandant for Privileges of the Floor: Page S4620 Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D505 United States Marine Corps, both of the Department XM-SIRIUS RADIO of Defense. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Committee concluded a hearing to examine the pro- MORTGAGE MARKET SECURITIZATION posed merger between XM and Sirius satellite radio Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: services, after receiving testimony from Mel Subcommittee on Securities, Insurance and Invest- Karmazin, Sirius Satellite Radio, and David Bank, ment concluded a hearing to examine the role of RBC Capital Markets, both of New York, New securitization relating to subprime mortgage market York; W. Russell Withers, Jr., Withers Broadcasting turmoil, including the mechanics of the nonprime Companies, Mount Vernon, Illinois, on behalf of the mortgage securitization process, the impact of recent National Association of Broadcasters; and Gene increases in defaults and delinquencies on the Kimmelman, Consumers Union, on behalf of Com- nonprime securitization market, characteristics of the mon Cause, Consumer Federation of America, Free securitization process that present challenges in miti- Press, and Media Access Project, and Gigi B. Sohn, gating potential foreclosures, and factors taken into Public Knowledge, both of Washington, D.C. consideration in the securitization process when as- WORKPLACE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE sessing credit risk for mortgage-backed securities and Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: monitoring assigned ratings, after receiving testi- Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safe- mony from Gyan Sinha, Bear, Stearns and Co. Inc, ty concluded a hearing to examine domestic violence David Sherr, Lehman Brothers Inc., Susan Barnes, in the workplace, after receiving testimony from Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services, and Warren Laura A. Fortman, Maine Department of Labor, Au- Kornfeld, Moody’s Investors Service, all of New gusta; Kathy Rodgers, Legal Momentum, New York, York, New York; Kurt Eggert, Chapman University New York; Sue K. Willman, Spencer Fane Britt and School of Law, Orange, California; and Christopher Browne LLP, Kansas City, Missouri, on behalf of the L. Peterson, University of Florida Levin College of Society for Human Resource Management; and Law, Gainesville. Yvette Cade, Temple Hills, Maryland. h House of Representatives H.R. 865, to grant rights-of-way for electric Chamber Action transmission lines over certain Native allotments in Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 42 pub- the State of Alaska (H. Rept. 110–91); lic bills, H.R. 1863–1904; and 19 resolutions, H. H.R. 285, to establish the Steel Industry National Con. Res. 112–115; and H. Res. 299–300, 303–314 Historic Site in the State of Pennsylvania, with an were introduced. Pages H3473–76 amendment (H. Rept. 110–92); Additional Cosponsors: Pages H3476–78 H.R. 249, to restore the prohibition on the com- Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: mercial sale and slaughter of wild free-roaming horses and burros (H. Rept. 110–93); H.R. 886, to enhance ecosystem protection and the range of outdoor opportunities protected by stat- H.R. 162, to adjust the boundary of the Barataria ute in the Skykomish River valley of the State of Preserve Unit of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Washington by designating certain lower-elevation Park and Preserve in the State of Louisiana (H. Rept. Federal lands as wilderness (H. Rept. 110–89); 110–94); H.R. 309, to direct the Secretary of the Interior H.R. 319, to establish the Journey Through Hal- to establish a demonstration program to facilitate lowed Ground National Heritage Area, with an landscape restoration programs within certain units amendment (H. Rept. 110–95); of the National Park System established by law to H. Res. 301, providing for consideration of H.R. preserve and interpret resources associated with 1257, to amend the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 American history, with an amendment (H. Rept. to provide shareholders with an advisory vote on ex- 110–90); ecutive compensation (H. Rept. 110–96); and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST D506 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2007 H. Res. 302, providing for consideration of H.R. Southern Nevada Readiness Center Act: H.R. 1361, to improve the disaster relief programs of the 815, to provide for the conveyance of certain land in Small Business Administration (H. Rept. 110–97). Clark County, Nevada, for use by the Nevada Na- Page H3473 tional Guard; Pages H3414–15 Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she Copper Valley Native Allotment Resolution Act appointed Representative Holden to act as Speaker of 2007: H.R. 865, amended, to grant rights-of-way Pro Tempore for today. Page H3403 for electric transmission lines over certain Native allotments in the State of Alaska; Pages H3415–16 Recess: The House recessed at 10:35 a.m. and re- convened at noon. Page H3403 Authorizing the National Park Service to pay for services rendered by subcontractors under a Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules General Services Administration Indefinite De- and pass the following measures: liver/Indefinite Quantity Contract issued for work Wild Sky Wilderness Act of 2007: H.R. 886, to to be completed at the Grand Canyon National enhance ecosystem protection and the range of out- Park: H.R. 1191, amended, to authorize the Na- door opportunities protected by statute in the tional Park Service to pay for services rendered by Skykomish River valley of the State of Washington subcontractors under a General Services Administra- by designating certain lower-elevation Federal lands tion Indefinite Deliver/Indefinite Quantity Contract as wilderness; Pages H3406–09 issued for work to be completed at the Grand Can- yon National Park; Pages H3416–17 Expressing the sense of the House of Representa- tives concerning the 50th anniversary of Celilo Taxpayer Protection Act of 2007: H.R. 1677, Falls: H. Res. 217, to express the sense of the amended, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of House of Representatives concerning the 50th anni- 1986 to enhance taxpayer protections and outreach, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 407 yeas to 7 nays, versary of Celilo Falls; Pages H3409–12 Roll No. 214; Pages H3417–23, H3435–36 Amending the Reclamation Wastewater and Supporting the goals and ideals of World Water Groundwater Study and Facilities Act to authorize Day: H. Res. 196, to support the goals and ideals the Secretary of the Interior to participate in the of World Water Day, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of Central Texas Water Recycling and Reuse Project: 393 yeas to 22 nays, Roll No. 215; H.R. 609, to amend the Reclamation Wastewater Pages H3424–26, H3436–37 and Groundwater Study and Facilities Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to participate in the Condemning the recent violent actions of the Central Texas Water Recycling and Reuse Project; Government of Zimbabwe against peaceful opposi- Pages H3412–13 tion party activists and members of civil society: H. Con. Res. 100, amended, to condemn the recent Amending the Reclamation Wastewater and violent actions of the Government of Zimbabwe Groundwater Study and Facilities Act to authorize against peaceful opposition party activists and mem- the Secretary of the Interior to participate in the bers of civil society, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of Los Angeles County Water Supply Augmentation 414 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’ and 4 voting Demonstration Project: H.R. 786, to amend the ‘‘present’’, Roll No. 216; Pages H3426–29, H3437 Reclamation Wastewater and Groundwater Study American National Red Cross Governance Mod- and Facilities Act to authorize the Secretary of the ernization Act of 2007: H.R. 1681, amended, to Interior to participate in the Los Angeles County amend the Congressional Charter of The American Water Supply Augmentation Demonstration Project; National Red Cross to modernize its governance Pages H3413–14 structure, to enhance the ability of the board of gov- Directing the Secretary of the Interior to estab- ernors of The American National Red Cross to sup- lish a demonstration program to facilitate land- port the critical mission of The American National scape restoration programs within certain units of Red Cross in the 21st century; and Pages H3429–32 the National Park System established by law to Amending the Housing and Community Devel- preserve and interpret resources associated with opment Act of 1974 to treat certain communities American history: H.R. 309, amended, to direct the as metropolitan cities for purposes of the commu- Secretary of the Interior to establish a demonstration nity development block grant program: H.R. 1515, program to facilitate landscape restoration programs to amend the Housing and Community Develop- within certain units of the National Park System es- ment Act of 1974 to treat certain communities as tablished by law to preserve and interpret resources metropolitan cities for purposes of the community associated with American history; Page H3414 development block grant program. Pages H3434–35

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D507

Recess: The House recessed at 3:23 p.m. and recon- DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS vened at 6:04 p.m. Page H3435 Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Defense Suspensions—Proceedings Resumed: The House held a hearing on Army Force Posture/Acquisition agreed to suspend the rules and agree to the fol- Overview. Testimony was heard from the following lowing measures which were debated on Monday, officials of the Department of the Army: GEN Rich- April 16th: ard Cody, USA, Vice Chief of Staff; and Claude Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Bolton, Assistant Secretary, Acquisition, Logistics Literacy Month: H. Res. 273, to support the goals and Technology. and ideals of Financial Literacy Month, by a 2/3 yea- The Subcommittee also met in executive session and-nay vote of 414 yeas to 2 nays, Roll No. 217 to hold a hearing on U.S. Central Command. Testi- mony was heard from ADM William Fallon, USN, and Pages H3432–34, H3437–38 Commander, U.S. Central Command, Department of Honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Inter- Defense. national Geophysical Year (IGY) and its past contributions to space research: H. Con. Res. 76, to FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL honor the 50th Anniversary of the International GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS Geophysical Year (IGY) and its past contributions to Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Finan- space research, and looking forward to future accom- cial Services and General Government held a hearing plishments, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 406 yeas on the FCC. Testimony was heard from Kevin J. with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 218. Martin, Chairman, FCC. Pages H3438–39 INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT AND RELATED Suspension—Proceedings Postponed: The House AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS debated the following measure under suspension of Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Inte- the rules. Further proceedings were postponed until rior, Environment and Related Agencies held a hear- Wednesday, April 18th: ing on Indian Health Service. Testimony was heard Supporting the goals and ideals highlighted from Charles W. Grim, M.D., Director, Indian through National Volunteer Week: H. Res. 293, to Health Service, Department of Health and Human support the goals and ideals highlighted through Services. National Volunteer Week. Pages H3432–34 MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS’ Committee Election: The House agreed to H. Res. AFFAIRS AND RELATED AGENCIES 304, electing the following Member to serve on the APPROPRIATIONS Committee on the Judiciary: Representative Bald- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Mili- win, to rank immediately after Representative Sher- tary Construction, Veterans’ Affairs and Related man. Page H3439 Agencies held a hearing on Central Command. Testi- Amendments: Amendments ordered printed pursu- mony was heard from ADM William J. Fallon, ant to the rule appear on pages H3478–79. USN, Commander, Central Command, Department of Defense. Quorum Calls—Votes: Five yea-and-nay votes developed during the proceedings of today and appear TRANSPORTATION, HUD, AND RELATED on pages H3435–36, H3436–37, H3437, H3438, AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS H3438–39. There were no quorum calls. Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Trans- Adjournment: The House met at 10:30 a.m. and portation, Housing and Urban Development, and adjourned at midnight. Related Agencies held a hearing on Federal Highway Administration/Federal Transit Administration. Tes- timony was heard from the following officials of the Committee Meetings Department of Transportation: Richard Kapka, Ad- ministrator, Federal Highway Administration; and LIVESTOCK INDUSTRY James Simpson, Administrator, Federal Transit Ad- ministration. Committee on Agriculture, Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy and Poultry held a hearing to review the mar- PRESCRIPTION DRUG USER FEE ACT ket structure of the livestock industry. Testimony REAUTHORIZATION was heard from James E. Link, Administrator, Grain Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administrator, Health held a hearing entitled ‘‘Reauthorization of USDA; and public witnesses. the Prescription Drug User Fee Act.’’ Testimony was

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST D508 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2007 heard from Teresa M. Mullin, M.D., Assistant Com- LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT HATE CRIMES missioner, Planning, FDA, Department of Health PREVENTION ACT OF 2007 and Human Services; and public witnesses. Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, RISING MORTGAGE FORECLOSURES Terrorism, and Homeland Security held a hearing on POSSIBLE RESPONSES H.R. 1592, Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007. Testimony was heard from Committee on Financial Services: Held a hearing enti- Mark Shurtleff, Attorney General, State of Utah; and tled ‘‘Possible Responses to Rising Mortgage Fore- public witnesses. closures.’’ Testimony was heard from Representatives Kaptur and Turner; Sheila C. Bair, Chairman, FDIC; OVERSIGHT—IMPLEMENTING OIL/GAS Brian Montgomery, Assistant Secretary, Housing, ENERGY POLICY Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on En- Housing and Urban Development; Daniel H. Mudd, ergy and Mineral Resources held an oversight hear- President and CEO, Fannie Mae; Richard F. Syron, ing on Implementation of Title III, the Oil and Gas Chairman and CEO, Freddie Mac; and public wit- provisions of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Testi- nesses. mony was heard from Abraham Haspel, Assistant Deputy Secretary, Department of the Interior; Sen- KOSOVA—OUTLOOK FOR INDEPENDENCE ator Curtis Bramble, Majority Leader, Senate, State Committee on Foreign Affairs: Held a hearing on the of Utah; and public witnesses. Outlook for the Independence of Kosova. Testimony OVERSIGHT—CLIMATE CHANGE AND was heard from R. Nicholas Burns, Under Secretary, WILDLIFE/OCEANS Political Affairs, Department of State. Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on U.S. COUNTERTERRORISM POLICY Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans held an oversight Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Inter- hearing on Wildlife and Oceans in a Changing Cli- national Organizations and Human Rights and the mate. Testimony was heard from C. Mark Eakin, Co- Subcommittee on Europe held a joint hearing on Ex- ordinator, NOAA Coral Reef Watch, NOAA Sat- traordinary Rendition in the U.S. Counterterrorism ellite Oceanography and Climate, Department of Policy: The Impact on Transatlantic Relations. Testi- Commerce; and public witnesses. mony was heard from the Michael F. Scheuer, former MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES Chief, Bin Laden Unit, CIA; and a public witness. Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Na- The Subcommittees also held a joint briefing on tional Parks, Forests and Public Lands held a hearing this subject. They were briefed by the following on the following bills: H.R. 554, Paleontological Members of the European Parliament: Jonathan Resources Preservation Act; H.R. 986, Eightmile Evans, Chairman, European Parliament Delegation Wild and Scenic River Act; H. R. 1100, Carl Sand- for Relations with the United States; Claudio Fava; burg Home National Historic Site Boundary Revi- and Baroness Sarah Ludford, Vice-Chairman, Tem- sion; and H.R. 1285, Snoqualmie Pass Land Convey- porary Committee on the Alleged Use of European ance Act. Testimony was heard from Representatives Countries by the CIA for the Transportation and Il- McGovern, Courtney and Hastings of Washington; legal Detention of Prisoners. Sue Masica, Chief of Staff, National Park Service, SECURE HANDLING OF AMMONIUM Department of the Interior; Frederick Norbury, As- NITRATE ACT sociate Deputy Chief, National Forest System, Forest Service, USDA; and public witnesses. Committee on Homeland Security: Began mark up of H.R. 1680, Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate U.S. POSTAL SERVICE Act of 2007. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- Committee recessed subject to the call of the committee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and Chair. the District of Columbia held a hearing on the U.S. Postal Service: 101. Testimony was heard from the OVERSIGHT—BANKRUPTCY CASES AND following officials of the U.S. Postal Service: John E. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION Potter, Postmaster General/CEO; James C. Miller, Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Com- III, Chairman, Board of Governors; and David C. mercial and Administrative Law held an oversight Williams, Inspector General; Dan G. Blair, Chair- hearing on Executive Compensation in Chapter 11 man, Postal Regulatory Commission; Katherine A. Bankruptcy Cases: How Much Is Too Much? Testi- Siggerud, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues, mony was heard from public witnesses. GAO; and public witnesses.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D509 OVERSIGHT—WALTER REED bate on H.R. 1361, RECOVERY Act, equally di- Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Na- vided and controlled by the Chairman and Ranking tional Security, and Foreign Affairs continued hear- Minority Member of the Committee on Small Busi- ings on Is This Any Way to Treat Our Troops—Fol- ness. The rule waives all points of order against con- low-up on Corrective Measures Taken at Walter sideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 of Reed and Other Medical Facilities Caring for Rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in Wounded Soldiers. Testimony was heard from the the nature of a substitute recommended by the Com- following officials of the Department of Defense: Mi- mittee on Small Business, modified by the amend- chael L. Dominguez, Principal Deputy Under Sec- ment printed in Part A of the Rules Committee re- retary (Personnel and Readiness); MG Gale S. Pol- port, shall be considered as adopted in the House lack, USA, Army Surgeon General (Acting) and and in the Committee of the Whole. The bill as Commander, U.S. Army Medical Command; and amended shall be considered as an original bill for MG Eric Schoomaker, USA, Commander, Walter the purpose of further amendment and shall be con- Reed Army Medical Center; and the following offi- sidered as read. The rule waives all points of order cials of the Independent Review Group: Togo D. against provisions in the bill as amended, and pro- West, Jr., former Secretary of Veterans Affairs and vides that no further amendments shall be in order former Secretary of the Army; Jack Marsh, former except those amendments printed in Part B of the Secretary of the Army; Arnold Fisher; Lawrence Hol- Rules Committee report accompanying the resolu- land, Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Secretary of De- tion. fense, Reserve Affairs; and Charles Roadman, former The rule provides that such further amendments Air Force Surgeon General. made in order in Part B may be offered only in the order printed in the report, may be offered only by SHAREHOLDER VOTE ON EXECUTIVE a Member designated in the report, shall be consid- COMPENSATION ACT ered as read, shall be debatable for the time specified Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, an open in the report equally divided and controlled by the rule with a preprinting requirements. The rule pro- proponent and an opponent, shall not be subject to vides 1 hour of general debate on H.R. 1257, Share- amendment, and shall not be subject to a demand holder Vote on Executive Compensation Act, equally for division of the question in the House or in the divided and controlled by the Chairman and Rank- Committee of the Whole. The rule waives all points ing Minority Member of the Committee on Financial of order against the amendments printed in the re- Services. The rule waives all points of order against port except for clauses 9 and 10 of Rule XXI. Fi- consideration of the bill except for clauses 9 and 10 nally, the rule provides one motion to recommit of Rule XXI. The rule provides that the amendment with or without instructions. Testimony was heard in the nature of a substitute recommended by the from Chairwoman Vela´zquez and Representative Committee on Financial Services now printed in the Chabot. bill shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment. The rule also provides that CLIMATE CHANGE SCIENCE each section of the amendment in the nature of a Committee on Science and Technology: Held a hearing on substitute shall be considered as read. the State of Climate Change Science 2007: The The rule makes in order only those amendments Findings of the Fourth Assessment Report by the to the amendment in the nature of a substitute that Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Work- have been pre-printed in the Congressional Record ing Group II: Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation on or before Tuesday, April 17, 2007 or are pro and Vulnerability. Testimony was heard from public forma amendments for the purpose of debate. The witnesses. rule provides that each amendment printed in the Congressional Record may be offered only by the PUBLIC-PRIVATE CONTRACTING Member who caused it to be printed or a designee, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- and that each amendment shall be considered as committee on Highways and Transit held a hearing read. Finally, the rule provides one motion to recom- on Public-Private Partnerships: Innovating Con- mit with or without instructions. Testimony was tracting. Testimony was heard from the following of- heard from Chairman Frank and Representative ficials of the Department of Transportation: James Bachus. Ray, Acting Deputy Administrator, Federal High- way Administration; and David B. Horner, Chief RECOVERY ACT Counsel, Federal Transit Administration; John Committee on Rules: Granted, by voice vote, a struc- Njord, Director, Department of Transportation, State tured rule. The rule provides 1 hour of general de- of Utah; and public witnesses.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST D510 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2007 ATMOSPHERIC DEPOSITION AND WATER Personnel, to hold joint hearings to examine the readiness QUALITY impact of quality of life and family support programs to assist families of Active Duty, National Guard, and Re- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- serve military personnel in review of the Defense Author- committee on Water Resources and Environment ization Request for Fiscal Year 2008 and the Future held a hearing on Nonpoint Source Pollution: At- Years Defense Program, 3 p.m., SR–232A. mospheric Deposition and Water Quality. Testimony Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Sub- was heard from Benjamin H. Grumbles, Assistant committee on Interstate Commerce, Trade, and Tourism, Administrator, Office of Water, EPA; Arleen to hold hearings to examine if ‘‘Free Trade’’ is working, O’Donnell, Acting Commissioner, Department of 10 a.m., SR–253. Environmental Protection, State of Massachusetts; Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and and public witnesses. Coast Guard, to hold oversight hearings to examine the President’s budget request for fiscal year 2008 for the VETERANS MEASURES United States Coast Guard, 2:30 p.m., SR–253. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Dis- Committee on Environment and Public Works: to hold hear- ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearings to examine the nomination of Lieutenant General ing on the following bills: H.R. 67, Veterans Out- Robert L. Van Antwerp, Jr. to be Chief of Engineers and reach Improvement Act of 2007; H.R. 1435, De- Commanding General of the United States Army Corps of Engineers, 2:30 p.m., SD–406. partment of Veterans Affairs Claims Backlog Reduc- Committee on Finance: to hold hearings to examine the tion Act of 2007; H.R. 1444, To direct the Sec- Administration’s plan for reducing the tax gap, focusing retary of Veterans Affairs to make interim benefit on goals, benchmarks, and timetables, 10 a.m., SD–215. payments under certain remanded claims; and H.R. Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- 1490, To provide for a presumption of service-con- ine the nominations of R. Niels Marquardt, of California, nectedness for certain claims for benefits under the to be Ambassador to the Republic of Madagascar, and to laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Af- serve concurrently and without additional compensation fairs. Testimony was heard from Representatives as Ambassador to the Union of Comoros, Janet E. Gar- McIntyre, Baca, Donnelly, and Upton; Ronald R. vey, of Massachusetts, to be Ambassador to the Republic Aument, Deputy Under Secretary, Benefits, Depart- of Cameroon, and Phillip Carter, III, of Virginia, to be ment of Veterans Affairs; representatives of veterans Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea, 9:30 organizations; and public witnesses. p.m., SD–419. Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: busi- PERSONNEL AND SECURITY ness meeting to consider S.1082, to amend the Federal Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence: Met in execu- Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to reauthorize and amend tive session to hold a hearing on Personnel and Secu- the prescription drug user fee provisions, and the nomina- rity. Testimony was heard from departmental wit- tions of Douglas G. Myers, of California, Jeffrey Patchen, of Indiana, Lotsee Patterson, of Oklahoma, all to be nesses. Members of the National Museum and Library Services f Board, Stephen W. Porter, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member of the National Council on the Arts, and COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, Cynthia Allen Wainscott, of Georgia, to be a Member of APRIL 18, 2007 the National Council on Disability, and promotion lists (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) for the Public Health Service, 10 a.m., SH–216. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Senate business meeting to consider the nomination of Gregory Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: to hold B. Cade, of Virginia, to be Administrator of the United hearings to examine economic challenges and opportuni- States Fire Administration, Department of Homeland Se- ties facing American agricultural producers today, focus- curity, Time to be announced, S–216, Capitol. ing on livestock, poultry and competition issues, 9:30 Committee on Rules and Administration: to hold hearings a.m., SD–106. to examine repealing the limitation on party expenditures Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on State, on behalf of candidates in general elections, 10 a.m., Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, to hold hear- SR–301. ings to examine proposed budget estimates for fiscal year Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: to hold 2008 for maternal and child health, and family planning hearings to examine Public Law 107–204 (Sarbanes Oxley and reproductive health, 10 a.m., SD–124. Act) and small business addressing proposed regulatory Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, to changes and their impact on capital markets, 10 a.m., hold hearings to examine proposed budget estimates for SR–428A. fiscal year 2008 for the Department of Energy, 2:30 p.m., Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: business meeting to SD–138. markup the nomination of Thomas E. Harvey, of New Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Readiness York, to be an Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs and Management Support, with the Subcommittee on (Congressional Affairs), 10 a.m., Room to be announced.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST April 17, 2007 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D511 House circumstances, and related matters; and pending Com- mittee business, 10:15 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. Committee on Agriculture, Subcommittee on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture, hearing to review the economic Committee on Natural Resources, hearing on the following impacts of production, processing and marketing of or- bills: H.R. 1294, Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of ganic agricultural products, 10 a.m., 1300 Longworth. Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2006; and H.R. 65, Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Defense, Lumbee Recognition Act, 10 a.m., 1324 Longworth. on Army Reset, 10 a.m., and on Army/Marine Corps Per- Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, to mark sonnel Issues, 1:30 a.m., H–140 Capitol. up H.R. 401, National Capital Transportation Amend- Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Gov- ments Act of 2007, 10 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. ernment, on GSA, 10 a.m., 2220 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census and Na- Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related tional Archives, hearing on Ensuring Fairness and Accu- Agencies, on Public Witnesses (Native Americans), 9:30 racy in Elections Involving Electronic Voting Systems, 2 a.m., and 1:30 p.m., B–308 Rayburn. p.m., 2154 Rayburn. Committee on Armed Services, hearing on the Fiscal Year Committee on Rules, to consider the following bills: 2008 National Defense Authorization Budget Request H.R.1495, Water Resources Development Act of 2007; U.S. Central Command, 9 a.m., 2118 Rayburn. and H.R. 363, Sowing the Seeds Through Science and Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on En- Engineering Research Act, 2 p.m., H–313 Capitol. ergy and Air Quality, hearing entitled ‘‘Alternative Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, oversight Transportation Fuels: An Overview,’’ 2 p.m., 2123 Ray- hearing on Proposals to Downsize the Federal Protective burn. Service and Effects on the Protection of Federal Build- Subcommittee on Health, hearing entitled ‘‘Medicare ings, 10 a.m., and an oversight hearing on Compliance Program Efficiency and Integrity,’’ 2 p.m., 2322 Ray- with Requirements of the Coast Guard’s Deepwater Con- burn. tract,’’ 2 p.m., 2167 Rayburn. Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Middle Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, to mark up H.R. 1642, East and South Asia, hearing on the Political Situation in Homeless Veterans Housing at Sepulveda Ambulatory Lebanon, 10 a.m., 2172 Rayburn. Care Center Promotion Act; followed by a hearing on Subcommittee on Terrorism, Noproliferation and H.R. 23, Belated Than You to the Merchant Mariners of Trade, and the Subcommittee on Domestic, and Inter- World War II Act of 2007, 10 a.m., 334 Cannon. national Monetary Policy, Trade and Technology of the Subcommittee on Health, hearing on access to VA Committee on Financial Services, joint hearing on Iso- Health Care: How Easy is it for Veterans? Addressing the lating Proliferators and Sponsors of Terror: The Use of Gaps, 2 p.m., 334 Cannon. Sanctions and the International Financial System to Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Subcommittee Change Regime Behavior, 2 p.m., 2172 Rayburn. on Terrorism, Human Intelligence, Analysis and Counter- Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on intelligence, executive, hearing on All-Source Analysis, 2 Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity, and Science and Tech- p.m., H–405 Capitol. nology, hearing entitled ‘‘Can BioShield Effectively Pro- Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warm- cure Medical Countermeasures that Safeguard the Na- ing, hearing entitled ‘‘Geopolitical Implications of Rising tion?’’ 1 p.m., 1539 Longworth. Oil Dependence and Global Warming,’’ 9:30 a.m., 1100 Committee on the Judiciary, to consider the following: a Longworth. resolution authorizing the Chairman to issue a subpoena to Monica Goodling for testimony and related documents Joint Meetings at a hearing before the Committee regarding the circumstances surrounding recent termination of U.S. Attor- Joint Committee on the Library: organizational business neys, representations to Congress regarding those cir- meeting to consider an original resolution authorizing ex- cumstances, and related matters; a resolution directing penditures for committee operations and committee’s the House General Counsel to apply to a United States rules of procedure for the 110th Congress, 2:15 p.m., district court for an order immunizing from use in pros- S–115, Capitol. ecutions the testimony of, and related information pro- Joint Committee on Printing: organizational business vided by, Monica Goodling under compulsion at pro- meeting to consider an original resolution authorizing ex- ceedings before or ancillary to the Committee regarding penditures for committee operations and committee’s the circumstances surrounding recent terminations of U.S. rules of procedure for the 110th Congress, 2:30 p.m., Attorneys, representations to Congress regarding those S–115, Capitol.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST D512 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2007

Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 18 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 18

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Wednesday: After the transaction of any Program for Wednesday: To be announced. morning business (not to extend beyond 60 minutes), Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to consideration of S. 3, Medicare Pre- scription Drug Price Negotiation Act; following which, Senate may vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to consideration of S. 378, Court Secu- rity Improvement Act.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Everett, Terry, Ala., E764 Mitchell, Harry E., Ariz., E755 Garrett, Scott, N.J., E750 Moore, Dennis, Kans., E760, E761, E765 Altmire, Jason, Pa., E747, E759 Giffords, Gabrielle, Ariz., E766 Moran, James P., Va., E757 Becerra, Xavier, Calif., E765 Gingrey, Phil, Ga., E767 Murphy, Patrick J., Pa., E747, E751, E755, E759 Blackburn, Marsha, Tenn., E758 Gordon, Bart, Tenn., E758 Pallone, Frank, Jr., N.J., E747, E751 Capito, Shelley Moore, W.Va., E757 Hall, Ralph M., Tex., E748 Paul, Ron, Tex., E760, E762 Clay, Wm. Lacy, Mo., E755 Hastings, Alcee L., Fla., E758, E763 Rahall, Nick J., II, W.Va., E747 Costa, Jim, Calif., E765 Hinojosa, Rube´n, Tex., E752 Reyes, Silvestre, Tex., E761 Courtney, Joe, Conn., E749 Johnson, Eddie Bernice, Tex., E752 Cubin, Barbara, Wyo., E758 Kaptur, Marcy, Ohio, E756 Rodriguez, Ciro D., Tex., E754 Davis, Danny K., Ill., E760, E762, E764 Langevin, James R., R.I., E754 Ryan, Tim, Ohio, E750 Davis, Tom, Va., E753 Lee, Barbara, Calif., E749 Sanchez, Loretta, Calif., E754 Diaz-Balart, Lincoln, Fla., E750 Lewis, Ron, Ky., E753 Sensenbrenner, F. James, Jr., Wisc., E759 Donnelly, Joe, Ind., E759, E767 Loebsack, David, Iowa, E751 Slaughter, Louise McIntosh, N.Y., E761 Dreier, David, Calif., E748, E751 McCollum, Betty, Minn., E749, E756 Towns, Edolphus, N.Y., E760, E762, E766 Ehlers, Vernon J., Mich., E764 Maloney, Carolyn B., N.Y., E750 Walden, Greg, Ore., E757 Ellsworth, Brad, Ind., E756 Matsui, Doris O., Calif., E749 Waxman, Henry A., Calif., E748, E751

E PL UR UM IB N U U S The Congressional Record (USPS 087–390). The Periodicals postage is paid at Washington, D.C. The public proceedings of each House Congressional Record of Congress, as reported by the Official Reporters thereof, are printed pursuant to directions of the Joint Committee on Printing as authorized by appropriate provisions of Title 44, United States Code, and published for each day that one or both Houses are in session, excepting very infrequent instances when two or more unusually small consecutive issues are printed one time. ¶ Public access to the Congressional Record is available online through GPO Access, a service of the Government Printing Office, free of charge to the user. The online database is updated each day the Congressional Record is published. The database includes both text and graphics from the beginning of the 103d Congress, 2d session (January 1994) forward. It is available through GPO Access at www.gpo.gov/gpoaccess. Customers can also access this information with WAIS client software, via telnet at swais.access.gpo.gov, or dial-in using communications software and a modem at 202–512–1661. Questions or comments regarding this database or GPO Access can be directed to the GPO Access User Support Team at: E-Mail: [email protected]; Phone 1–888–293–6498 (toll-free), 202–512–1530 (D.C. area); Fax: 202–512–1262. The Team’s hours of availability are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, except Federal holidays. ¶ The Congressional Record paper and 24x microfiche edition will be furnished by mail to subscribers, free of postage, at the following prices: paper edition, $252.00 for six months, $503.00 per year, or purchased as follows: less than 200 pages, $10.50; between 200 and 400 pages, $21.00; greater than 400 pages, $31.50, payable in advance; microfiche edition, $146.00 per year, or purchased for $3.00 per issue payable in advance. The semimonthly Congressional Record Index may be purchased for the same per issue prices. To place an order for any of these products, visit the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at: bookstore.gpo.gov. Mail orders to: Superintendent of Documents, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250–7954, or phone orders to 866–512–1800 (toll free), 202–512–1800 (D.C. area), or fax to 202–512–2250. Remit check or money order, made payable to the Superintendent of Documents, or use VISA, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, or GPO Deposit Account. ¶ Following each session of Congress, the daily Congressional Record is revised, printed, permanently bound and sold by the Superintendent of Documents in individual parts or by sets. ¶ With the exception of copyrighted articles, there are no restrictions on the republication of material from the Congressional Record. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Superintendent of Documents, Congressional Record, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, along with the entire mailing label from the last issue received.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:23 Apr 18, 2007 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0664 Sfmt 0664 E:\CR\FM\D17AP7.REC D17APPT1 hmoore on PROD1PC76 with DIGEST