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

Vol. 154 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2008 No. 40 House of Representatives The House met at 12:30 p.m. and was PRAYER Mr. CARNAHAN led the Pledge of Al- called to order by the Speaker pro tem- The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. legiance as follows: pore (Ms. HIRONO). Coughlin, offered the following prayer: I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Repub- f Today at the beginning of another week of time and work, we stand before lic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO You, Lord God of the universe. We also TEMPORE stand before the world community. f The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- There is no way of separating ourselves COMMUNICATION FROM THE fore the House the following commu- from this reality. CLERK OF THE HOUSE nication from the Speaker: The truth of our living today and the The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- WASHINGTON, DC, ensuing week is dependent upon our at- fore the House the following commu- March 10, 2008. titude of mind toward the world we live nication from the Clerk of the House of I hereby appoint the Honorable MAZIE K. in. This attitude is a matter of habit, Representatives: HIRONO to act as Speaker pro tempore on dealing with others and circumstances this day. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, according to past experiences and ever- Washington, DC, March 8, 2008. NANCY PELOSI, present pressures. Help us, Lord, to see Speaker of the House of Representatives. Hon. NANCY PELOSI, how our attitude guides any attempt to The Speaker, The Capitol, House of Representa- f form relationships or pattern progress tives, Washington, DC. for ourselves and the Nation. DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the MORNING-HOUR DEBATE Most often, Lord, this unconscious permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- attitude places an emphasis either of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- ant to the order of the House of Janu- upon the principle of duality or upon tives, I have the honor to transmit a sealed ary 4, 2007, the Chair will now recog- envelope received from the White House on the principle of unity. Either we view March 8, 2008, at 11 :30 a.m. and said to con- nize Members from lists submitted by everyone and everything as a com- tain a message from the President whereby the majority and minority leaders for bative conquest or a realized connec- he returns without his approval, H.R. 2082, morning-hour debate. tion. Every moment we approach the the ‘‘Intelligence Authorization Act for Fis- The Chair will alternate recognition whole universe through a cultivation of cal Year 2008.’’ between the parties, with each party controlling power or through growth in With best wishes, I am limited to 30 minutes and each Mem- sympathy. Sincerely, ber, other than the majority and mi- Once we know there are no winners LORRAINE C. MILLER, Clerk of the House. nority leaders and the minority whip, or losers, the game never ends. It is all limited to 5 minutes. a matter of attitude. Life is either a f competitive struggle or a simple joy f INTELLIGENCE AUTHORIZATION both now and forever. Amen. ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008— RECESS f VETO MESSAGE FROM THE The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED THE JOURNAL ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair STATES (H. DOC. NO. 110–100) declares the House in recess until 2 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- p.m. today. Chair has examined the Journal of the fore the House the following veto mes- Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 33 last day’s proceedings and announces sage from the President of the United minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- to the House her approval thereof. States: cess until 2 p.m. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- To the House of Representatives: nal stands approved. f I am returning herewith without my f approval H.R. 2082, the ‘‘Intelligence b 1400 Authorization Act for Fiscal Year PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 2008.’’ The bill would impede the United AFTER RECESS The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the States Government’s efforts to protect The recess having expired, the House gentleman from Missouri (Mr. the American people effectively from was called to order by the Speaker pro CARNAHAN) come forward and lead the terrorist attacks and other threats be- tempore (Ms. HIRONO) at 2 p.m. House in the Pledge of Allegiance. cause it imposes several unnecessary

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

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR7.000 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1420 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 and unacceptable burdens on our Intel- arate and specialized interrogation pro- such matters, rather than through the ligence Community. gram for terrorists who possess the enactment of legislation. Section 444 of the bill would impose most critical information in the War In addition, section 406 would require additional Senate confirmation re- on Terror has helped the United States a consolidated inventory of Special Ac- quirements on two national security prevent a number of attacks, including cess Programs (SAPs) to be submitted positions—the Director of the National plots to fly passenger airplanes into to the Congress. Special Access Pro- Security Agency and the Director of the Library Tower in Los Angeles and grams concern the most sensitive in- the National Reconnaissance Office. into Heathrow Airport or buildings in formation maintained by the Govern- The National Commission on Terrorist downtown London. While details of the ment, and SAP materials are main- Attacks Upon the United States (9/11 current CIA program are classified, the tained separately precisely to avoid the Commission) observed that the effec- Attorney General has reviewed it and existence of one document that can tiveness of the Intelligence Community determined that it is lawful under ex- serve as a roadmap to our Nation’s suffers due to delays in the confirma- isting domestic and international law, most vital information. The executive tion process; section 444 would only ag- including Common Article 3 of the Ge- branch must be permitted to present gravate those serious problems. Senior neva Conventions. I remain committed this information in a manner that does intelligence officials need to assume to an intelligence-gathering program not jeopardize national security. The their duties and responsibilities as that complies with our legal obliga- executive branch will continue to keep quickly as possible to address the tions and our basic values as a people. the Congress appropriately informed of pressing requirements of national secu- The United States opposes torture, and the matters to which the provisions re- rity. Instead of addressing the 9/11 I remain committed to following inter- late in accordance with the accommo- Commission’s concern, the bill would national and domestic law regarding dation principles the Constitution con- subject two additional vital positions the humane treatment of people in its templates and the executive and legis- to a more protracted process of Senate custody, including the ‘‘Detainee lative branches have long and success- confirmation. Apart from causing such Treatment Act of 2005.’’ fully used to address information shar- potentially harmful delays, this unwar- My disagreement over section 327 is ing on matters of national security. ranted requirement for Senate con- not over any particular interrogation GEORGE W. BUSH. firmation would also risk injecting po- technique; for instance, it is not over THE WHITE HOUSE, March 8, 2008. litical pressure into these positions of waterboarding, which is not part of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ob- technical expertise and public trust. current CIA program. Rather, my con- jections of the President will be spread Section 413 would create a new In- cern is the need to maintain a separate at large upon the Journal, and the veto spector General for the Intelligence CIA program that will shield from dis- message and the bill will be printed as Community. This new office is duplica- closure to al Qaeda and other terrorists a House document. tive and unnecessary. Each intel- the interrogation techniques they may Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I ligence community component already face upon capture. In accordance with ask unanimous consent that further has an Inspector General, and the In- a clear purpose of the ‘‘Military Com- consideration of the veto message and spector General of the Office of the Di- missions Act of 2006,’’ my veto is in- the bill be postponed until Tuesday, rector of National Intelligence has tended to allow the continuation of a March 11, 2008. been vested with all the legal powers of separate and classified CIA interroga- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there any inspector general to carry out in- tion program that the Department of objection to the request of the gen- vestigations on matters under the ju- Justice has determined is lawful and tleman from ? risdiction of the Director of National that operates according to rules dis- There was no objection. Intelligence. There is no reason to tinct from the more general rules ap- f commit taxpayer resources to an addi- plicable to the Department of Defense. b 1415 tional inspector general with com- While I will continue to work with the peting jurisdiction over the same intel- Congress on the implementation of AIRBUS WINS AIR FORCE ligence elements. Creating duplicative laws passed in this area in recent CONTRACT OVER BOEING inspectors general, who may have in- years, I cannot sign into law a bill that (Mr. CARNAHAN asked and was consistent views on the handling of would prevent me, and future Presi- given permission to address the House particular matters, has the potential dents, from authorizing the CIA to con- for 1 minute and to revise and extend to create conflicts and impede the In- duct a separate, lawful intelligence his remarks.) telligence Community from efficiently program, and from taking all lawful ac- Mr. CARNAHAN. Madam Speaker, a resolving issues and carrying out its tions necessary to protect Americans week ago Friday, the market dropped core mission. In addition, the creation from attack. 400-plus points, and the Air Force an- of a new inspector general would add Other provisions of the bill purport nounced its award of a refueling air- yet another position in the Intelligence to require the executive branch to sub- craft contract to foreign-based Airbus Community subject to Senate con- mit information to the Congress that over U.S.-based Boeing. At a time when firmation, contrary to the 9/11 Commis- may be constitutionally protected from we are working on national economic sion’s recommendations. disclosure, including information the stimulus plans for our sagging econ- Section 327 of the bill would harm disclosure of which could impair for- omy, outsourcing vital defense work our national security by requiring any eign relations, the national security, and good-paying jobs raises questions element of the Intelligence Community the deliberative processes of the Execu- that are both troubling and alarming. to use only the interrogation methods tive, or the performance of the Execu- Their decision to reward foreign inter- authorized in the Army Field Manual tive’s constitutional duties. Section ests by spending $40 billion abroad has on Interrogations. It is vitally impor- 326, for example, would require that the been ridiculed. Many today are still tant that the Central Intelligence executive branch report, on a very shaking their heads. It reminds me of a Agency (CIA) be allowed to maintain a short deadline and in accordance with time not long ago when we were being separate and classified interrogation a rigid set of specific statutory require- asked to relinquish control of our program. The Army Field Manual is di- ments, the details of highly classified ports. This latest debacle doesn’t make rected at guiding the actions of nearly interrogation techniques and the con- sense, and it is not good for our coun- three million active duty and reserve fidential legal advice concerning them. try. military personnel in connection with The executive branch voluntarily has Air Force officials have agreed to the detention of lawful combatants provided much of this information to move up a debriefing with Boeing offi- during the course of traditional armed appropriate Members of Congress, dem- cials to explain why they would conflicts, but terrorists often are onstrating that questions concerning outsource the construction of 179 aerial trained specifically to resist tech- access to such information are best ad- tankers abroad. Adding insult to in- niques prescribed in publicly available dressed through the customary prac- jury, many believe the Air Force deci- military regulations such as the Man- tices and arrangements between the ex- sion will end up actually buying a more ual. The CIA’s ability to conduct a sep- ecutive and legislative branches on costly and less capable aircraft.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR7.007 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1421 Many Members are disturbed by what dress the House for 1 minute and to re- COMMUNICATION FROM THE has transpired as a result of this deal. vise and extend his remarks.) CLERK OF THE HOUSE It degrades our national defense indus- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- try. It diminishes economic develop- Madam Speaker, for over 20 days, the fore the House the following commu- ment opportunities and jobs here at majority leadership in this House has nication from the Clerk of the House of home. When will we insist on putting refused to bring a permanent fix to the Representatives: America’s interests first? This Con- Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act OFFICE OF THE CLERK, gress should act swiftly and respon- to the floor. Everyone knows that the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, sibly to review and to stop this ques- bill which passed the Senate would Washington, DC, March 7, 2008. tionable contract award. pass the House with bipartisan support. Hon. NANCY PELOSI, f Yet, we have seen no action on the part The Speaker, House of Representatives, The of the majority. We need to send a Capitol, Washington, DC. JUDGES’ HALL OF SHAME— clear message to our law enforcement, DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the MARILYN MACKEL permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II to our military, and to our intelligence of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- (Mr. POE asked and was given per- community that they will have every tives, the Clerk received the following mes- mission to address the House for 1 lawful resource necessary to do their sage from the Secretary of the Senate on minute.) jobs and to protect American families. March 7, 2008, at 3:20 p.m.: Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, judges We need to send a clear message to our That the Senate passed S. 2733. should keep politics out of their judi- friends and to our enemies that Amer- Appointments: cial decisions, but not so with Cali- ica will do everything possible to stop Public Interest Declassification Board. fornia Judge Marilyn Mackel. She is a those who have declared war on all With best wishes, I am Sincerely, loud opponent of U.S. liberation of Americans anywhere, anytime. It is LORRAINE C. MILLER, . So when Shawn Sage, a foster misguided to obstruct our ability to Clerk of the House. child of 17, appeared before her to ob- track our enemies out of an unfounded tain permission to early enlist in the fear that our intelligence community f United States Marine Corps, she sum- has the intent and the time to go spy- COMMUNICATION FROM THE HON- marily denounced his request and told ing on everyday Americans. The origi- ORABLE SILVESTRE REYES, him she was opposed to the war in Iraq. nal FISA law addresses those concerns. MEMBER OF CONGRESS Shawn appeared in court with his This fix to FISA is about tracking po- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- supporting foster parents just to be in- tential terrorists overseas and not pun- fore the House the following commu- sulted by a judge who makes decisions ishing individuals and businesses that nication from the Honorable SILVESTRE based on politics. Judge Mackel is a re- would cooperate with our government. REYES, Member of Congress: peat offender, however. Judge ‘‘Gone In conclusion, God bless our troops, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, PER- Wild’’ Mackel has shown prejudice and we will never forget September the MANENT SELECT COMMITTEE ON IN- against the military before when she 11th. TELLIGENCE, prevented a foster child from joining Washington, DC, March 6, 2008. the United States Navy, all because of f Hon. NANCY PELOSI, a political bias. Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. As a former judge, it appears to me THE EXPIRATION OF THE the abuse of power by this anti-Amer- DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: This is to notify PROTECT AMERICA ACT you formally, pursuant to Rule VIII of the ican military, peacenik judge is the Rules of the House of Representatives, that I perfect example of her having a ter- (Ms. FALLIN asked and was given have received a subpoena for documents minal case of black robe disease, a dis- permission to address the House for 1 issued by the U.S. District Court for the Cen- ease some judges get when their per- minute and to revise and extend her re- tral District of California. sonal politics cloud their judgment. marks.) After consultation with the Office of Gen- Keep politics and wacky judges out of Ms. FALLIN. Madam Speaker, it has eral Counsel, I have determined that compli- the courthouse. Judge Mackel is the been well over 20 days since the Pro- ance with the subpoena is inconsistent with newest member of the Judges’ Hall of tect America Act expired. For 3 weeks the precedents and privileges of the House. Sincerely, Shame. and counting, this Congress has al- SILVESTRE REYES, And that’s just the way it is. lowed the quality of our surveillance Chairman. programs to erode. As a result, our in- f f telligence agencies have lost critical ECONOMIC STIMULUS tools in the war on terror and are left ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER (Mr. DAVIS of Illinois asked and was potentially blind to lethal terrorist PRO TEMPORE given permission to address the House plots. In light of these dangers, Demo- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- for 1 minute and to revise and extend crat leaders are facing a chorus of ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair his remarks.) Members demanding action on the bi- will postpone further proceedings Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- partisan Senate-passed surveillance today on motions to suspend the rules er, I voted for the President’s economic bill. on which a recorded vote or the yeas stimulus package, and I think it is Madam Speaker, it is time that we and nays are ordered, or on which the going to actually help some people, but bring this bill to the floor. The Demo- vote is objected to under clause 6 of not nearly enough. In my city and in crat chairman of the Senate Intel- rule XX. other major cities throughout the ligence Committee has said that pass- Record votes on postponed questions country, unemployment among young ing this legislation is the right way to will be taken after 6:30 p.m. today. people is at an all-time high. go in terms of the security of our Na- f For example, in Chicago, more than tion. In the House, over 20 Democrats 50 percent of the young African Amer- have publicly urged Speaker PELOSI to NATIONAL 9–1–1 EDUCATION ican males between the ages of 16 and bring the bill up for a vote. In fact, it MONTH 22 do not go to school and do not work. seems that the Democrat leadership Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- We want to stimulate the economy. will not bring this bill up precisely be- er, I move to suspend the rules and Let us put young people to work, and I cause they know it will pass. agree to the resolution (H. Res. 537) ex- guarantee that will help. Madam Speaker, enough is enough. pressing support for the designation f We have floated temporary patches and and goals of ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education Band-Aids for months. It is time to get Month’’, and for other purposes, as FISA serious about our national security. It amended. (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina is time to bring a permanent fix to The Clerk read the title of the resolu- asked and was given permission to ad- FISA and to a vote on this floor. tion.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.006 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1422 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 The text of the resolution is as fol- prank and non-emergency calls, which can Whether young or old, the number 9– lows: result in costly and inefficient use of 9–1–1 1–1, which had its first debut back in and emergency response resources; H. RES. 537 1968 when AT&T, under the encourage- Whereas we as a Nation should strive to ment of Congress, established the dig- Whereas 9–1–1 is nationally recognized as host at least 1 educational event in every the number to call in an emergency to re- school in the country each year regarding its as the Nation’s emergency tele- ceive immediate help from police, fire, emer- the proper use of 9–1–1; phone number, is known by most gency medical services, or other appropriate Whereas an established National 9–1–1 Edu- Americans as the number to ring when emergency response entities; cation Month could include public awareness someone needs a fire, police, or ambu- Whereas in 1967, the President’s Commis- events, including conferences and media out- sion on Law Enforcement and Administra- lance response right away because of a reach, training activities for parents, teach- tion of Justice recommended that a ‘‘single threat to health, safety, or property. ers, school administrators, care givers, chil- number should be established’’ nationwide There are countless stories that I am dren, the elderly, and businesses; educational for reporting emergency situations, and sure we can all recall where children as events in schools and other appropriate other Federal Government agencies and var- venues; and production and distribution of young as 3 or 4 have remembered to ious governmental officials also supported educational content on 9–1–1 designed to edu- pick up the phone and dial the numer- and encouraged the recommendation; cate people of all ages on the importance and ical sequence of 9–1–1, thereby saving Whereas in 1968, the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T) announced proper use of 9–1–1; and the lives of parents, grandparents, that it would establish the digits 9–1–1 as the Whereas Americans deserve the finest the caretakers, and siblings. emergency code throughout the United Nation can offer in 9–1–1 education: Now, Further, urging support for National States; therefore, be it 9–1–1 Month education would be futile Resolved, That the House of Representa- Whereas 9–1–1 was designated by Congress tives— if we failed to mention the commit- as the national emergency call number under (1) supports the designation of an appro- ment and diligence of the thousands of the Wireless Communications and Public priate month as ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education persons that serve on the other end of Safety Act of 1999 (Public Law 106–81); Month’’ and the goals of such designation; the 9–1–1 line. By simply doing their Whereas the ENHANCE 911 Act of 2004 and (Public Law 108–494) established enhanced 9– jobs, these 9–1–1 call takers are saving 1–1 as ‘‘a high national priority’’ as part of (2) requests that the President issue a lives every hour of every day by dis- our Nation’s homeland security and public proclamation— patching emergency first responders safety; (A) designating a month as ‘‘National 9–1– and by providing verbal support and Whereas it is important that policy mak- 1 Education Month’’; and (B) calling upon Government officials, par- comfort in some of the most perilous ers at all levels of government understand moments of our lives. the importance of 9–1–1, how the system ents, teachers, school administrators, care givers, businesses, nonprofit organizations, As localities and communities across works today, and the steps that are needed our great country consistently search to modernize the 9–1–1 system; and the people of the United States to ob- Whereas the 9–1–1 system is the connection serve such month with appropriate cere- for ways to make the 9–1–1 calling sys- between the eyes and ears of the public and monies, training events, and activities. tem more efficient, reliable and well- emergency responders, and is a significant The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- known, let us do our part in elevating homeland security asset; ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- the importance of the numbers 9–1–1 by Whereas there are over 6,000 9–1–1 public linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman passing the measure at hand, which ex- safety answering points (PSAPs) serving from Georgia (Mr. WESTMORELAND) presses the support of the entire House more than 3,000 counties and parishes each will control 20 minutes. of Representatives for the designation throughout the United States; The Chair recognizes the gentleman and goals of National 9–1–1 Month. Whereas PSAPs answer more than from Illinois. Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- 200,000,000 9–1–1 calls each year in the United States, and a growing number of 9–1–1 calls GENERAL LEAVE ance of my time. are made using wireless and Internet Pro- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam tocol-based communications services; er, I ask unanimous consent that all Speaker, I yield myself as much time Whereas a growing segment of the popu- Members may have 5 legislative days as I may consume. lation, including the deaf, hard of hearing, in which to revise and extend their re- I rise today in support of this resolu- and deaf-blind, and individuals with speech marks. tion expressing support for the designa- disabilities, are increasingly communicating The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion and goals of National 9–1–1 Edu- with nontraditional text, video, and instant objection to the request of the gen- cation Month. Every day across this messaging communications services, and an- tleman from Illinois? great Nation, lives are saved thanks to ticipate that these services will be able to There was no objection. connect directly to 9–1–1; this simple, yet vital, support service. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Now I would Recommended in 1967 by the Presi- Whereas the growth and variety of means yield myself such time as I might con- of communication, including mobile and dent’s Commission on Law Enforce- Internet Protocol-based systems, impose sume. ment and Administration of Justice challenges for accessing 9–1–1 and imple- As a member of the House Committee and established a year later by AT&T, menting enhanced 9–1–1, and require in- on Oversight and Government Reform, 9–1–1 has continued to evolve as an in- creased education and awareness about their I am pleased to join my colleagues in tegral part of America’s vital emer- the consideration of H. Res. 537, as capabilities and limitations; gency response and homeland security. Whereas numerous other N–1–1 and 800 amended, which expresses the House’s Each year over 200 million calls are re- number services exist for non-emergency sit- support for the designation and goals ceived by the 6,000-plus public safety uations, including 2–1–1, 3–1–1, 5–1–1, 7–1–1, 8– of National 9–1–1 Month. 1–1, poison control centers, and mental H. Res. 537 was introduced by Rep- answering points across the country. health hotlines, and the public needs to be resentative ANNA ESHOO of the great These calls come from people of all educated on when to use these services in ad- State of California on July 11, 2007, and walks of life, young and old, wealthy dition to or instead of 9–1–1; and poor. As this service is a vital ac- Whereas international visitors and individ- has the support and cosponsorship of nearly 60 Members of Congress. Upon cess point for the public to reach a pub- uals immigrating to the United States make lic safety official during a time of need, up an increasing part of the Nation’s popu- introduction, the measure was referred lation in any given year, and such visitors to the Committee on Oversight and it is critical that we continue to edu- and individuals may have limited knowledge Government Reform where it was cate our citizens on the services 9–1–1 of our emergency calling system; passed by the panel by voice vote after provides and the appropriate uses of Whereas people of all ages use 9–1–1, and it having been amended on February 26, the number. is critical to educate members of the public 2008. We must also continue to modernize of all ages on the proper use of 9–1–1; Madam Speaker, it is only fitting this vital tool. There is a growing pop- Whereas thousands of 9–1–1 calls are made that we consider this resolution today, ulation of citizens, otherwise unable to every year by children properly trained in as it makes the important point of communicate clearly, who are learning the use of 9–1–1, resulting in lives saved, and to communicate through new tech- which, in turn, underscores the critical im- highlighting National 9–1–1 Month as a portance of training children early in life way of reminding everybody of the sig- nologies such as text, video, and in- about 9–1–1; nificance these three small numbers stant messaging. We should strive to Whereas there is a need to reduce the wide- hold in times of emergency and dis- connect the use of emerging tech- spread misuse of the 9–1–1 system, including tress. nologies to the 9–1–1 system.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.009 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1423 Madam Speaker, once again, in- b 1430 A native and lifelong resident of Port creased awareness and understanding E. ARTHUR GRAY POST OFFICE Jervis, Gray began his professional ca- of this service will help save lives and BUILDING reer as cofounder and director of Gray- increase national security. For this Parker Funeral Home in Port Jervis, reason, I support this resolution and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- New York, before entering the realm of ask that my colleagues do the same. er, I move to suspend the rules and public service and politics. Well-known Ms. ESHOO. Madam Speaker, I’m proud to pass the bill (H.R. 3196) to designate throughout Orange County, New York, have sponsored this Resolution to establish a the facility of the United States Postal for his stellar high school National 9–1–1 Education Month. Service located at 20 Sussex Street in days at Port Jervis High School and as Forty years ago President Johnson’s Com- Port Jervis, New York, as the ‘‘E. Ar- a World War II veteran, Gray gave un- mission on Law Enforcement and Justice rec- thur Gray Post Office Building’’. selfishly of himself by serving as the ommended that a single, nationwide telephone The Clerk read the title of the bill. chairman of the Port Jervis Commu- The text of the bill is as follows: number be established for reporting emer- nity Development Agency, a member of gencies—9–1–1. Since then, 9–1–1 has been H.R. 3196 the Orange County Economic Develop- used by millions of people across the country Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ment Agency and as chairman of the resentatives of the United States of America in National League of Small Cities Advi- to quickly and efficiently contact their local fire Congress assembled, sory Council. and police departments, as well as report SECTION 1. E. ARTHUR GRAY POST OFFICE emergencies in their communities. Over 200 BUILDING. Madam Speaker, in honor of E. Ar- million emergency calls are made each year (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the thur Gray’s public service and compas- through the 6,000 9–1–1 public safety answer- United States Postal Service located at 20 sionate spirit, let us pass without res- ing points serving more than 3,000 counties. Sussex Street in Port Jervis, New York, ervation H.R. 3196 and rename the post- As the connection between the eyes and shall be known and designated as the ‘‘E. Ar- al facility on Sussex Street in Port ears of the public and the emergency re- thur Gray Post Office Building’’. Jervis, New York, after this great (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, sponse system in the U.S., 9–1–1 answering American citizen. map, regulation, document, paper, or other Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- points are often the first to know of emer- record of the United States to the facility re- gencies caused by natural disasters, to na- ance of my time. ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam tional security threats, making 9–1–1 a vital be a reference to the ‘‘E. Arthur Gray Post Speaker, I yield myself such time as I homeland security asset. Educating people of Office Building’’. may consume. all ages and backgrounds about 9–1–1 is cru- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- cial to the effectiveness of our emergency re- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- port of this bill designating the facility sponse system. It is especially important for linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman of the United States Postal Service lo- vulnerable populations like children, the deaf from Georgia (Mr. WESTMORELAND) cated at 20 Sussex Street in Port Jer- and the hard of hearing, and those with limited each will control 20 minutes. vis, New York, as the E. Arthur Gray English skills to understand and use. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Post Office Building. A National 9–1–1 Education Month will en- from Illinois. A native of Port Jervis, Arthur Gray courage the development of public awareness GENERAL LEAVE spent a lifetime serving his commu- events, advertising to the public, targeted out- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- nity, State, and country. He was well- reach to schools, and training activities for er, I ask unanimous consent that all known in the community, first as a parents and teachers. The deaf and hard of Members may have 5 legislative days high school basketball star, then as a hearing are increasingly using text, video and in which to revise and extend their re- veteran of the Second World War who instant messaging to access 9–1–1 operators. marks. later became a local funeral home di- With such an effective and comprehensive The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there rector. emergency network, everyone benefits from objection to the request of the gen- Mr. Gray accomplished a lot by the learning. tleman from Illinois? time he was elected to his first term as As co-chairs of the E9–1–1 Caucus, Mr. There was no objection. mayor of Port Jervis in 1978. Described SHIMKUS and I understand the importance of Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- as generous and always willing to lend the 9–1–1 emergency network to the public er, I yield myself such time as I may a helping hand, Mayor Gray was the safety and security of our country and this res- consume. longest serving mayor in the history of olution will help to ensure that all Americans As a member of the House Committee Port Jervis, maintaining his position can access these critical services in an emer- on Oversight and Government Reform, for five and a half terms until 1988, gency. I urge my colleagues to join me in sup- I stand with my colleagues from the when he was elected to represent the porting a National 9–1–1 Education Month. Empire State of New York in consider- 34th District in the New York State Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam ation of H.R. 3196, which renames a Senate. Speaker, I yield back the balance of postal facility in Port Jervis, New His commitment to the community my time. York, in honor of E. Arthur Gray, extended far beyond his office doors. He Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- former mayor and statesman from Or- was a former member and chairman of er, I have no further requests for time, ange County, New York. H.R. 3196 en- the Port Jervis Community Develop- and I would yield back the balance of joys the support of the entire congres- ment Agency, a former member of the my time. sional delegation from New York, and Orange County Economic Development The SPEAKER pro tempore. The was introduced by my colleague Rep- Agency, former chairman of the Na- question is on the motion offered by resentative John Hall back on July 26, tional League of Small Cities Advisory the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. 2007. The measure was taken up by the Council, and participated in numerous DAVIS) that the House suspend the Oversight Committee on February 26, local boards and organizations. rules and agree to the resolution, H. 2008, and was passed by a voice vote. Sadly, Arthur Gray died on April 10, Res. 537, as amended. H.R. 3196 calls for honoring E. Arthur 2007, at the age of 82. A loving husband, The question was taken. Gray’s service to his community, father of two, grandfather, and truly The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the State, and therefore his country by dedicated public servant, Arthur Gray opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being designating the post office in his home- exemplified civic duty and social re- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. town of Port Jervis, New York, as the sponsibility. His contributions to his Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam E. Arthur Gray Post Office Building. community and beyond will not soon Speaker, on that I demand the yeas E. Arthur Gray was Port Jervis’s be forgotten, and I urge that we accept and nays. longest serving mayor, completing 51⁄2 this bill memorializing the tremendous The yeas and nays were ordered. terms from 1978 to 1988. After his ten- life of this man. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ure as mayor, in 1988 Gray became a Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the New York State senator by ousting a ance of my time. Chair’s prior announcement, further 16-year incumbent. Gray represented Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- proceedings on this motion will be New York’s 39th District during his er, I urge passage of this bill and yield postponed. time in the New York legislature. back the balance of my time.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.010 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1424 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The their appointed rounds’’ are the words With this, I ask my colleagues to join question is on the motion offered by engraved on the outside of the James me in support of this fitting tribute to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. A. Farley Post Office Building in New a dedicated postal employee who lost DAVIS) that the House suspend the York City. Every day, thousands of his life in the line of duty. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3196. postal employees proudly wear the uni- Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- The question was taken. form of the United States Postal Serv- ance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the ice with the understanding of the enor- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being mity of this commitment. er, I yield myself such time as I may in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Today, Madam Speaker, I stand be- consume. Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam fore the House in support of H.R. 4166, Madam Speaker, as a member of the Speaker, on that I demand the yeas a bill I introduced to pay tribute to the House Committee on Oversight and and nays. life of one of those public servants, Mr. Government Reform, I am pleased to The yeas and nays were ordered. Steven W. Allee of Stoutland, Missouri, join my colleagues from the great The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and a rural mail carrier for the citizens State of Missouri in the consideration ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the of , Missouri. of H.R. 4166, which names the postal fa- Chair’s prior announcement, further Since 1989, Mr. Steve Allee held a cility in Lebanon, Missouri, after Steve proceedings on this motion will be full-time position as a rural carrier at W. Allee, a dedicated and long-serving postponed. the Lebanon, Missouri, Post Office. He United States postal worker. was a dedicated employee, a loving H.R. 4166, which was introduced by f family man to his wife Debbie, his chil- Representative IKE SKELTON of Mis- STEVE W. ALLEE CARRIER ANNEX dren and his grandchildren, a member souri on November 13, 2007, was consid- of the Buffalo Prairie Baptist Church, ered and reported from the Oversight Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- and a friend to many. Committee on February 26, 2008, by a er, I move to suspend the rules and Tragically, Madam Speaker, on Au- voice vote. The measure has the sup- pass the bill (H.R. 4166) to designate gust 20, 2007, Mr. Allee was killed in port of the entire congressional delega- the facility of the United States Postal the line of duty when his vehicle was tion from Missouri and provides us Service located at 701 East Copeland swept away by floodwaters in rural with yet another opportunity to pay Drive in Lebanon, Missouri, as the Lebanon. This flash flood was unprece- tribute to an American citizen whose ‘‘Steve W. Allee Carrier Annex’’. dented in its magnitude. As Mr. Allee life was taken while simply performing The Clerk read the title of the bill. completed his route, he approached a his professional duties of delivering the The text of the bill is as follows: country bridge under which a typically mail. H.R. 4166 dry creekbed usually lies. However, on The story of Mr. Allee’s tragic death Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- this day, the rapidly falling rainwater begins on Monday, August 20, 2007, resentatives of the United States of America in had overtaken the bridge. When Mr. where, according to a Missouri State Congress assembled, Allee attempted to cross, his vehicle Highway Patrol report, at 2 p.m. in SECTION 1. STEVE W. ALLEE CARRIER ANNEX. was swept away. Laclede County, 10 miles east of Leb- (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the Today, I urge the House of Rep- anon, Missouri, a 2003 Chevy Blazer United States Postal Service located at 701 resentatives to honor this man for his driven by Steve Allee, 51, of Stoutland, East Copeland Drive in Lebanon, Missouri, public service and his commitment to shall be known and designated as the ‘‘Steve Missouri, came upon a flooded roadway his community. Let us pay our respects and was swept away as a result of W. Allee Carrier Annex’’. to his personal and postal family by (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, flooding on the Missouri River. designating the facility, the United map, regulation, document, paper, or other b 1445 record of the United States to the facility re- States Postal Service located at 701 ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to East Copeland Drive in Lebanon, Mis- Allee, who was on duty during the ac- be a reference to the ‘‘Steve W. Allee Carrier souri, as the Steve W. Allee Carrier cident, was found 2 miles downstream Annex’’. Annex. and pronounced dead at the scene. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam At the urging of Representative ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I SKELTON, passage of H.R. 4166 will linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman may consume. allow Congress to make in order a from Georgia (Mr. WESTMORELAND) In his hometown of Lebanon, Mis- small tribute to this big-hearted indi- each will control 20 minutes. souri, Steve Allee was known not just vidual, a United States postal carrier The Chair recognizes the gentleman as a rural postal carrier at the Lebanon himself. Mr. Allee had been delivering from Illinois. Post Office, but also as a dear friend mail since 1989, when he succumbed to and loving family man. He came from a GENERAL LEAVE his death as a result of the Missouri family of letter carriers. His father was River overrunning its banks last fall. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- a highway contract driver, and his Let us also remember and express our er, I ask unanimous consent that all cousin is the postmaster in Stoutland, gratitude for the life of this dedicated Members may have 5 legislative days Missouri. postal worker, who was tragically to revise and extend their remarks. Mr. Allee was a dedicated post office taken from us by a force of nature The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there employee for over 15 years until the while performing his vocation of deliv- objection to the request of the gen- tragic loss of his life while on the job ering the mail, by passing H.R. 4166. tleman from Illinois? on August 20, 2007. On that tragic day, I want to thank Representative IKE There was no objection. Mr. Allee was going about his daily SKELTON for moving to honor this gen- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- routine of delivering mail until a tor- tleman for the work that he not only er, I yield such time as he may con- rential rainstorm began. He was at- did but for the life that he gave. sume to the honorable gentleman from tempting to cross a bridge over what is Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- Missouri (Mr. SKELTON), the author of normally a dry creekbed, but due to ance of my time. this bill. the rainfall, the creek had become The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, I flooded. Mr. Allee perished as his vehi- question is on the motion offered by certainly thank the gentleman for cle was washed away in the rush of the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. yielding and giving me this oppor- water. This serves as an example of DAVIS) that the House suspend the tunity. how public servants in the course of rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4166. It goes without saying that the their everyday duties are sometimes The question was taken. United States Postal Service has an thrust into dangerous and, in this case, The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the historic reputation for excellence and deadly circumstances. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being unyielding dedication to the people of We acknowledge Mr. Allee’s service in the affirmative, the ayes have it. our Nation. ‘‘Neither snow nor rain nor and his sacrifice. He will be deeply Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam heat nor gloom of night stays these missed by all the people’s lives that he Speaker, on that I demand the yeas carriers from the swift completion of touched. and nays.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.014 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1425 The yeas and nays were ordered. Atanasoff and graduate student Clifford Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Berry, whose Atanasoff-Berry Computer was am proud to speak today in strong sup- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the the first to incorporate the 7 basic principles port of House Resolution 924, congratu- Chair’s prior announcement, further of modern computing; lating of Science (4) laying the foundation for the modern proceedings on this motion will be plastics industry with polyethylene research and Technology for 150 years of leader- postponed. by Professor Henry Gilman; ship and service to the United States f (5) development of the process still used and the world as Iowa’s land-grant uni- today to refine pure rare-earth materials, in- versity. CONGRATULATING IOWA STATE cluding reactor-grade uranium, by Professor Iowa State University is not in the UNIVERSITY FOR 150 YEARS OF Frank Spedding and Harley Wilhelm, as a re- Second District, but it is a very impor- LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE sult of Iowa State’s key role in the Manhat- tant place to me. The university serves Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I tan Project in WWII; thousands of students across Iowa, (6) development of modern livestock ani- move to suspend the rules and agree to helping them prepare for the workforce the resolution (H. Res. 924) congratu- mal genetics by Professor Jay Lush; and (7) first field-testing of a genetically al- and starting them on the path to suc- lating Iowa State University of Science tered plant (tobacco) in 1987 and genetically cess. Iowa State is my alma mater. I and Technology for 150 years of leader- altered tree (poplar) in 1989 by Professor received a first-rate education at the ship and service to the United States Robert Thornburg; university; and although I now rep- and the world as Iowa’s land-grant uni- Whereas Iowa State hired one of the first resent the Hawk- versity, as amended. permanent campus artists-in-residence, with eyes, I am proud to be a Cyclone. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- sculptor Christian Petersen holding that po- Iowa State has many claims to fame. tion. sition from 1934 to 1955 and providing hun- dreds of sculptures and other art objects to It was the first land-grant institution The text of the resolution is as fol- to be coeducational from its opening, lows: the university, whose Art on Campus collec- tion today includes more than 600 major pub- with 16 women in its first class. H. RES. 924 lic works of art; Future suffragette Carrie Chapman Whereas Iowa State University of Science Whereas Iowa State has had a technology Catt was an 1880 graduate. George and Technology was established by the Iowa transfer office since 1935, longer than all but Washington Carver was the first Afri- General Assembly on March 22, 1858, as the one other university in the United States, can American student, earning a bach- Iowa Agricultural and Model Farm and is acknowledged today as a leader in elor’s degree in 1894 and a master’s de- in response to the State of Iowa’s desire to putting technology to work, being cited as a gree in 1896 and was also the institu- provide higher education opportunities to ‘‘model of economic development’’ and ‘‘li- farm families and working classes in Iowa, censing powerhouse’’ in a 2007 study commis- tion’s first African American faculty predating the passage of the Federal Morrill sioned by the National Science Foundation; member. Act by 4 years; Whereas Iowa State University is today Iowa State is also known for its cut- Whereas on September 11, 1862, Iowa be- spearheading new advances in science and ting-edge agricultural research. Agri- came the first State in the United States to technology, including new materials, infor- culture is a driving force in our State’s accept the terms and conditions of the Mor- mation sciences, green architecture, biologi- economy, and the work the university rill Act creating the land-grant system of cal research, and the development of bio- does helps us remain competitive and and universities; renewable fuels and other resources to sup- strong. I am proud to say that most un- Whereas the Iowa Agricultural College and port the bioeconomy and the Nation’s inde- Model Farm, known today as Iowa State pendence from nonrenewable petroleum re- dergraduate and graduate students en- University of Science and Technology, re- sources; and rolled at Iowa State come from Iowa, ceived Iowa’s land-grant charter on March Whereas more than 257,000 degrees have and a large proportion of these stu- 29, 1864, making it one of the first land-grant been awarded by Iowa State, and its grad- dents remain in Iowa. institutions in the United States; uates include heads of State, leaders of in- In fact, about 71 percent of College of Whereas Iowa State University was a pio- dustry, great humanitarians, and gifted sci- Agriculture and Life Science graduates neer in all 3 parts of the land-grant mission, entists, whose work has improved the qual- stay in Iowa for their first jobs. Young including— ity of life for people worldwide: Now, there- men and women graduate and gain em- (1) allowing access to all, regardless of fore, be it race, gender, or social class; Resolved, That the United States House of ployment on farms and agricultural (2) practical research; and Representatives congratulates Iowa State services, in forestry, in fishing, and (3) outreach; University of Science and Technology for 150 much more. Whereas Iowa State University fulfilled years of outstanding service to the State of I congratulate Iowa State University the 3 parts of the land-grant mission by— Iowa, the United States, and the world in for 150 years of excellence, and I look (1) creating the first land-grant institution fulfilling its mission as a land-grant univer- forward to another 150 years of the to be coeducational from its opening, with 16 sity; and thanks the State of Iowa for its vi- same. women in its first class; future suffragist sionary leadership in the beginning of the Carrie Chapman Catt was an 1880 graduate; Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- land-grant movement in the United States of ance of my time. and George Washington Carver was the first America. African-American student, earning a bach- Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam elor’s degree in 1894 and a master’s degree in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I 1896, and was also the institution’s first Afri- ant to the rule, the gentleman from may consume. can-American faculty member; Iowa (Mr. LOEBSACK) and the gen- Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- (2) establishing the United States’ first En- tleman from New York (Mr. KUHL) each port of House Resolution 924, congratu- gineering Experiment Station and domestic will control 20 minutes. economy experimental kitchen, and one of lating Iowa State University of Science The Chair recognizes the gentleman and Technology for 150 years of leader- the first agriculture experiment stations; from Iowa. and ship and service to the United States (3) organizing the Farmers Institutes in GENERAL LEAVE and the world as Iowa’s land-grant uni- the winter of 1869, by Iowa State President Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I versity. Adonijah Welch, and organizing the nation’s request 5 legislative days during which Iowa Agriculture College and Model first county Extension Service in 1903 in Members may insert material relevant Farm, now Iowa State University, was Sioux County in northwest Iowa by Professor to House Resolution 924 into the officially established on March 22, 1858. Perry Holden; Whereas some of the most important tech- RECORD. As a land-grant institution, Iowa agri- nological advancements of the modern world The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there culture college focused on ideals that were the result of research at Iowa State, in- objection to the request of the gen- higher education should be accessible cluding— tleman from Iowa? to all and that the university should (1) development of hybrid seed corn in the There was no objection. teach liberal and practical subjects. 1920s; Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I These ideas are integral to the land- (2) pioneering work on soybean oil extrac- yield myself such time as I may con- grant university policy. tion and producing ethanol from corn and other plant materials by Professor Orland sume. Even before Abraham Lincoln signed Sweeney in the 1930s; (Mr. LOEBSACK asked and was given a law that gave birth to the land-grant (3) invention of the electronic digital com- permission to revise and extend his re- universities, Iowa State was actively puter in the late 1930s by Professor John marks.) bringing knowledge to the people of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.017 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1426 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 Iowa through farmers’ short courses velopment of ethanol and to the devel- conceptual design for a new biorenewables re- and farm demonstrations. The first of- opment of modern livestock animal ge- search laboratory at Iowa State University. ficial class, consisting of 24 men and netics and many more. The laboratory is the first piece of a new bio- two women, entered at Ames in 1869 Iowa State continues to lead the Na- renewables complex planned for the univer- and graduated in 1872. tion in research into biorenewable fuels sity. Iowa State then was a leader and is and modern agriculture. In 2005 Iowa Biorenewables research is the future of ISU now a leader in agriculture, engineer- State’s students finished third in the and the State of Iowa. I congratulate Iowa ing, extension, home economics, and North American Solar Challenge, the State University on 150 years, and wish them created the Nation’s first State veteri- world’s longest solar car race. Iowa many more. Go Cyclones. nary medicine school in 1879. In 1959, State has excelled in a number of other Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, I the college was officially renamed Iowa areas, from development of the elec- rise today to congratulate my almamater, Iowa State University of Science and Tech- tronic digital computer in the 1930s to State University, for 150 years of service to nology. The focus on technology has research into refining reactor-grade Iowa and the Nation. Iowa State University led to many research patents and in- uranium. was founded on March 22, 1858, as the Iowa ventions, including the first binary The campus of Iowa State is also Agricultural College and Model Farm. The col- computer, the round hay baler, and noteworthy. With over 600 public works lege was one of the first land grant institutions many, many more. of art, Iowa State was rated one of the in the country and was founded in response to Today Iowa State University has ap- 25 most beautiful campuses in ‘‘The the state of Iowa’s strong desire to provide proximately 27,000 students, some Campus as a Work of Art.’’ Iowa State higher education opportunities to farm families change from over 100 years ago. With has graduated a number of prominent and the working class in Iowa. world-class programs in agriculture, contributors to our Nation, including, I’m proud to say that my alma mater has technology, science and art, the ‘‘U.S. as mentioned, George Washington taken an active role in promoting social justice News & World Report’’ ranks Iowa Carver, who went on to serve as the and racial equality throughout its 150 year his- State among the top 50 public national school’s first African American faculty tory. Iowa State University was the first coedu- universities. Half of Iowa State Univer- member, as well as suffragette Carrie cational land grant university graduating 16 sity freshmen get an early boost in Chapman Catt, who graduated in 1880. women in its first graduating class. George academic success by participating in In fact, more than half my colleagues Washington Carver was the first African Amer- Iowa State’s highly touted Learning in the current Iowa delegation at- ican to graduate from the college in 1880 and Communities Program. Additionally, tended Iowa State, including Mr. later served as a faculty member at Iowa State. Women suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt Iowa State University is ranked 18th in LOEBSACK, who is the floor manager of also graduated from Iowa State in 1880. Fi- the Nation for its study or work abroad the bill, BRUCE BRALEY, , nally, Iowa State is home to the only division programs. and Senator . Iowa State University is a very spe- I look forward to continuing to work one football stadium to be named for an Afri- cial place that is full of history; but with the great institution that is Iowa can American. Jack Trice stadium is named what truly makes it unique is a rare State University and I am confident for Iowa State football player Jack Trice. Trice combination of campus beauty, the op- that Iowa State will continue to have died due to injuries suffered during an Iowa portunity to be part of the land-grant great influence in Iowa and across our State football game in 1923. Some of the biggest technological advance- experiment, and to create a progressive Nation. Again, congratulations to Iowa ments in the world of science were made at and inventive spirit that they call the State University for 150 remarkable Iowa State University. In the late 1930’s Pro- Cyclone Experience. years. I extend my congratulations along Madam Speaker, I urge support of fessor John Atanasoff and graduate student with all my colleagues to the univer- this resolution. Clifford Berry invented the first electronic dig- sity president, Gregory Geoffroy, all of Mr. KING of Iowa. Madam Speaker, Iowa ital computer at Iowa State. In the 1920’s hy- Iowa State University’s faculty, its State University is one of the most respected brid seed corn was developed at Iowa State staff, certainly, its students and alum- land-grant universities in the Nation. Created and in the 1930’s Professor Orland Sweeny ni, and wish them continued success. by the Iowa General Assembly in 1858, the conducted pioneer work on ethanol production Madam Speaker, I ask that my col- Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm was from corn. Finally, the school established the leagues support this resolution, and I designated the first land-grant college when Nation’s first engineering experiment station reserve the balance of my time. Iowa became the first state to accept the and domestic economy experimental kitchen, Mr. LOEBSACK. First I want to terms of the Federal Morrill Act in 1864. and one of the first agricultural experiment sta- thank the gentleman from New York The act allowed Iowa to sell Federal land to tions. for his wonderful words for Iowa State finance a new college open to all, regardless I’m proud to call Iowa State my alma mater University. of wealth, race or sex; offering a practical edu- and congratulate them for 150 years of aca- Madam Speaker, I yield as much cation in engineering, agriculture, and military demic excellence. I urge my colleagues to join time as he may consume to my friend science as well as classical studies; and shar- with me in congratulating the Iowa Sate com- and mentor, the gentleman from Iowa ing research knowledge with all Iowans. Iowa munity for all they have done and will continue (Mr. BOSWELL). to do for Iowa and the nation State University officially opened in 1869 and Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam Mr. BOSWELL. Madam Speaker, I was the first coeducational land-grant school. Speaker, I have no further requests for rise today in support of House Resolu- Today, we are proudly celebrating the 150th time, and I yield back the balance of tion 924, celebrating the 150th anniver- anniversary of Iowa State University. my time. sary of Iowa State University. Iowa State University has been a leader in Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I I want to thank my dear friend, Con- science in technology throughout its long his- yield back the balance of my time. gressman LOEBSACK, for his leadership tory. The world’s first electronic digital com- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and yielding the time, and I also want puter was developed at Iowa State by math question is on the motion offered by to thank Congressman BRALEY and and physics professor John V. Atanasoff and the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Congressman LATHAM for their leader- graduate student Clifford Berry, in the late LOEBSACK) that the House suspend the ship on this resolution. 1930s. Their invention, the ABC computer, rules and agree to the resolution, H. Iowa State University has made has been called the most important techno- Res. 924, as amended. noteworthy contributions to the State logical innovation of the 20th century. The question was taken. of Iowa, our Nation and the world since The university is a leader in virtual reality re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the being established in 1958. Iowa State search and its most advanced virtual reality opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being was the first co-ed land-grant institu- theater, the C6, is the Nation’s first six-sided in the affirmative, the ayes have it. tion providing opportunities for stu- theater that totally immerses the user in im- Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam dents regardless of gender, race, or so- ages and sound. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas cial class. Iowa State is home to crit- Iowa State is one of the top three U.S. uni- and nays. ical agriculture research, from the de- versities in the development of patentable bio- The yeas and nays were ordered. velopment of the hybrid seed corn in technology. Last February, the Iowa Board of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the 1920s to important work on the de- Regents approved a $32 million budget and ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.018 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1427 Chair’s prior announcement, further Iowa (Mr. LOEBSACK) and the gen- FedEx Orange Bowl defeating Virginia proceedings on this motion will be tleman from New York (Mr. KUHL) each Tech by a score of 24–20 for its first postponed. will control 20 minutes. major bowl victory in university his- f The Chair recognizes the gentleman tory. from Iowa. The KU football team won a school CONGRATULATING THE UNIVER- GENERAL LEAVE record 12 games this past season and SITY OF KANSAS FOOTBALL Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I ended the season ranked seventh in the TEAM FOR WINNING THE 2008 final top 25 polls released on January 8, FEDEX ORANGE BOWL request 5 legislative days during which Members may insert material relevant 2008. This is the second highest final Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I to House Resolution 948 into the ranking in school history. move to suspend the rules and agree to RECORD. This past year’s KU team set the the resolution (H. Res. 948) congratu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there school record with points per game, lating the University of Kansas (‘‘KU’’) objection to the request of the gen- with an average of 42 points per game, football team for winning the 2008 tleman from Iowa? and total yards per game, with an aver- FedEx Orange Bowl and having the There was no objection. age of 479 yards. KU is the only school most successful year in program his- Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I in the country to rank in the top five tory, as amended. yield myself such time as I may con- nationally in both scoring offense, The Clerk read the title of the resolu- sume. which was second, and scoring defense, tion. (Mr. LOEBSACK asked and was given in which they were fifth. The text of the resolution is as fol- permission to revise and extend his re- Following the remarkable year, head lows: marks.) coach Mark Mangino was awarded mul- H. RES. 948 Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I tiple national Coach of the Year Whereas on January 3, 2008, the University would like to congratulate the Univer- awards. And, in fact, Coach Mangino of Kansas (KU) football team won the 2008 sity of Kansas for winning the 2008 has produced a minimum of six wins in FedEx Orange Bowl, defeating Virginia Tech FedEx Orange Bowl and having the three straight seasons, for the first by a score of 24 to 21 for the first major bowl most successful year in the program’s time in 46 years for the KU football victory in university history; history. program. Whereas the KU football team won 12 The KU football team also produced games this season to set a school record; On January 3, 2008, Kansas captured Whereas KU ranked seventh in the final its first major bowl victory in univer- two first team All Americans, corner- Top 25 polls released on January 8, 2008, for sity history by defeating Virginia back Aquib Talib and offensive tackle the second highest final ranking in school Tech. College football fans, student Anthony Collins. Equally important, history (the school ranked sixth in 1968); athletes, and the Nation were treated the team produced two academic All Whereas the KU football team reached a to an exceptional college bowl game. American recipients, Russell Brorsen number 2 ranking on November 18, 2007, their I want to extend my congratulations and John Larson. highest national ranking in program history; to head coach Mark Mangino, athletic In addition to successful athletic pro- Whereas the KU team set the school record grams, KU also provides faculty, aca- for points, an average of 42.77 points per director Lou Perkins, University of game, and total yards (479.77 yards); Kansas Chancellor Robert Hemenway, demic and research programs of inter- Whereas KU was the only school in the and Kansas’s student athletes for win- national distinction, and outstanding country to rank in the top 5 nationally in ning the Orange Bowl and obtaining a libraries, teaching museums, and both scoring offense (second) and scoring de- school record 12–1 season. teaching technology. These resources fense (fifth); I also want to extend my congratula- enrich the undergraduate experience Whereas Head Coach Mark Mangino was tions to the Virginia Tech Hokies and and are essential for graduate-level awarded multiple national coach of the year their student athletes for a great sea- education and for research. honors; son. From early existence, the University Whereas Head Coach Mark Mangino has of Kansas has been fueled by high aspi- produced a minimum of 6 wins in 3 straight Winning the Orange Bowl and fin- seasons for the first time in 46 years for the ishing the season with a 12–1 record has rations and has enjoyed a national rep- KU football program; brought positive national attention to utation for innovation and academic Whereas the KU football team produced 2 Kansas, and I know the fans of the uni- excellence. I extend my congratula- first-team All-Americans, cornerback Aqib versity will cherish this moment as tions to head coach Mark Mangino, all Talib and offensive tackle Anthony Collins, they look forward to the 2008 season. of the hardworking players, the fans, and 1 second-team All-American in defensive Student athletes balance a rigorous and to the University of Kansas. I am tackle James McClinton; and school workload with the many prac- happy to join my friend and colleague Whereas the KU football team was also in honoring this exceptional team for honored to have 2 Academic All-America re- tices and games in which they com- cipients on the team, Russell Brorsen and pete. I am proud of student athletes for all of its accomplishments and wish all John Larson: Now, therefore, be it their dedication to their schoolwork involved continued success. I ask my Resolved, That the House of Representa- and their sport. colleagues to support this resolution. tives— Madam Speaker, once again I con- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- (1) congratulates and commends the Uni- gratulate the University of Kansas for ance of my time. versity of Kansas football team for winning their success, and I reserve the balance Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I the 2008 FedEx Orange Bowl and for having of my time. am pleased to yield such time as he the most successful year in program history; may consume to the gentleman from (2) recognizes the significant achievements b 1500 of the players, coaches, students, alumni, Missouri (Mr. SKELTON), also the dis- and support staff whose dedication and hard Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam tinguished Chair of the Armed Services work helped the University of Kansas foot- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I Committee on which I serve. ball team win the FedEx Orange Bowl; and may consume. Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, I (3) respectfully requests the Clerk of the I noticed that the gentleman from thank the gentleman for yielding, and House of Representatives to transmit en- Iowa was a little quizzical and hesitant let me take this opportunity to con- rolled copies of this resolution to the fol- in congratulating a fellow Big 12 team gratulate the gentlelady from Kansas lowing individuals for display: from Kansas. But in any case, Madam (Mrs. BOYDA) for paying tribute to the (A) Robert Hemenway, Chancellor of the Speaker, I rise today in support of University of Kansas. Kansas University football program. It (B) Richard Lariviere, Provost and Execu- House Resolution 948 congratulating is impressive. tive Vice Chancellor of the University of the University of Kansas football team, But I would yield to the gentleman Kansas. affectionately known as KU, for win- from Iowa if he would answer a few (C) Lew Perkins, Athletics Director of the ning the 2008 FedEx Orange Bowl and questions. University of Kansas. having the most successful year in pro- Mr. LOEBSACK. Yes, I will. (D) Mark Mangino, Head Coach. gram history. Mr. SKELTON. I would be remiss if I The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- On January 3, 2008, the University of did not take this opportunity to ask ant to the rule, the gentleman from Kansas football team won the 2008 you if you know of the outcome of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.020 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1428 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 Missouri University Tigers football Whereas UCLA women’s players Members may insert material relevant team when they played the Kansas , Emily Feher, Courtney to House Resolution 493 into the Jayhawks on November 24, 2007. Mathewson, Jillian Kraus, and Kacy Kunkel RECORD. Mr. LOEBSACK. No. were named to the NCAA All-Tournament The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there First Team; Mr. SKELTON. Would you be inter- Whereas the UCLA women’s water polo objection to the request of the gen- ested in knowing that the Missouri Ti- team finished the 2007 season with a record tleman from Iowa? gers defeated the Kansas Jayhawks 36– of 28 wins and 2 losses, and now has a record There was no objection. 28 on November 24, 2007? of 90 wins and 6 losses over the past 3 sea- Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I Mr. LOEBSACK. Yes. sons; yield myself such time as I may con- Mr. SKELTON. And would you also Whereas the 2007 Women’s Water Polo Na- sume. be interested in knowing that the Mis- tional Championship makes UCLA the first (Mr. LOEBSACK asked and was given souri Tigers finished fourth on the na- school ever to win 100 NCAA sports national permission to revise and extend his re- titles; marks.) tional Associated Press poll to Kansas’ Whereas UCLA won its 100th NCAA title number 7 on the Associated Press poll? less than 58 years after the UCLA men’s ten- Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I Mr. LOEBSACK. Yes. nis team won the school’s first NCAA title in rise today to congratulate the Univer- Mr. SKELTON. I thank you. 1950; sity of California, Los Angeles, on its Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam Whereas 16 different men’s and women’s 100th NCAA team championship. On Speaker, I yield back the balance of sports programs contributed to the Bruins’ May 13, 2007, the women’s water polo my time. 100 NCAA national championships, includ- team, led by head coach Adam Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I ing— Krikorian, defeated Stanford 9–4 in the (1) men’s basketball in 1964, 1965, 1967, 1968, last round of the Women’s Water Polo thank Chairman SKELTON for his com- 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, and 1995; ments. (2) men’s in 1988; National Championship tournament, I yield back the balance of my time. (3) women’s golf in 1991 and 2004; thereby making the University of Cali- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (4) men’s gymnastics in 1984 and 1987; fornia, Los Angeles, the first team in question is on the motion offered by (5) women’s gymnastics in 1997, 2000, 2001, history to win 100 NCAA team cham- the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. 2003, and 2004; pionships. (6) men’s soccer in 1985, 1990, 1997, and 2002; LOEBSACK) that the House suspend the This was the team’s third consecu- (7) women’s in 1982, 1984, 1985, 1988, tive NCAA championship and its fifth rules and agree to the resolution, H. 1989, 1990, 1992, 1999, 2003, and 2004; Res. 948, as amended. (8) men’s swimming in 1982; overall national title. Team member The question was taken. (9) men’s tennis in 1950, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1956, Kelly Rulon was selected as the tour- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the 1960, 1961, 1965, 1970, 1971, 1975, 1976, 1979, 1982, nament’s Most Valuable Player, and opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being 1984, and 2005; Ms. Rulon and four of her teammates, in the affirmative, the ayes have it. (10) men’s track and field in 1956, 1966, 1971, Emily Feher, , Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam 1972, 1973, 1978, 1987, and 1988; Jillian Kraus, and Kacy Kunkel, were (11) women’s outdoor track and field in named to the NCAA all-tournament Speaker, on that I demand the yeas 1982, 1983, and 2004; and nays. (12) women’s indoor track and field in 2000 team. The yeas and nays were ordered. and 2001; UCLA won its first national title in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (13) men’s in 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974, men’s tennis in 1950. Since then, 16 dif- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 1975, 1976, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1987, 1989, ferent athletics programs, nine men’s Chair’s prior announcement, further 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000, and 2006; programs and seven women’s, have won proceedings on this motion will be (14) women’s volleyball in 1984, 1990, and national championships in the sports of postponed. 1991; basketball, golf, gymnastics, soccer, (15) men’s water polo in 1969, 1971, 1972, softball, swimming, tennis, track and f 1995, 1996, 1999, 2000, and 2004; and (16) women’s water polo in 2001, 2003, 2005, field, volleyball, and, of course, water CONGRATULATING THE WOMEN’S polo. In the last 5 years alone, under WATER POLO TEAM OF UCLA 2006, and 2007; Whereas UCLA teams have won 14 NCAA the leadership of director of athletics FOR WINNING THE 2007 NA- national championships during the tenure of Dan Guerrero, UCLA teams have won TIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP Daniel G. Guerrero, the current Director of 14 NCAA national championships in Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I Athletics at UCLA; and nine different sports. move to suspend the rules and agree to Whereas UCLA, under the leadership of This extraordinary achievement is a the resolution (H. Res. 493) congratu- Chancellor Gene Block, continues to estab- tribute to the skill and dedication of lish itself as one of the top research univer- lating the women’s water polo team of sities as well as top athletic programs in the the many players, coaches, students, the University of California, Los Ange- Nation: Now, therefore, be it alumni, families, professors, staff, and les, for winning the 2007 NCAA Division Resolved, That the House of Representa- fans who have helped to make UCLA an I Women’s Water Polo National Cham- tives— athletic powerhouse as well as an aca- pionship, and congratulating UCLA on (1) congratulates the women’s water polo demic force. its 100th NCAA sports national title, team of the University of California, Los An- Madam Speaker, I express my sup- making it the most accomplished ath- geles, and Head Coach for port for H. Res. 493 and urge my col- winning the 2007 NCAA Division I Women’s letic program in NCAA history, as leagues to pass this measure. Water Polo National Championship; Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- amended. (2) congratulates UCLA on becoming the The Clerk read the title of the resolu- first school to win 100 NCAA sports national ance of my time. tion. championship titles, making it the most ac- Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam The text of the resolution is as fol- complished athletic program in NCAA his- Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 493 lows: tory; and as well. But there is a person in the (3) recognizes the achievements of all the H. RES. 493 Chamber who is a little closer than the players, coaches, students, alumni, and staff Whereas on May 13, 2007, the women’s gentleman from Iowa or myself from of UCLA who were instrumental over the New York, and so I yield such time as water polo team of the University of Cali- years in this prestigious achievement. fornia, Los Angeles (UCLA), defeated Stan- he may consume to the gentleman ford 5–4 in the championship game of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- from California (Mr. LEWIS). NCAA Division I Women’s Water Polo Na- ant to the rule, the gentleman from (Mr. LEWIS of California asked and tional Championship tournament; Iowa (Mr. LOEBSACK) and the gen- was given permission to revise and ex- Whereas the victory gave Head Coach tleman from New York (Mr. KUHL) each tend his remarks.) Adam Krikorian and the Bruins women’s will control 20 minutes. Mr. LEWIS of California. Madam water polo team their third consecutive The Chair recognizes the gentleman Speaker, I very much appreciate my NCAA Championship and was the team’s from Iowa. fifth overall national title; colleague’s courtesy. Almost all that I Whereas Kelly Rulon, a driver for the Bru- GENERAL LEAVE was going to say about UCLA’s prowess ins, was selected as the tournament’s Most Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I in athletics has already been stated for Valuable Player; request 5 legislative days during which the RECORD.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.022 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1429 Having said that, Madam Speaker, One hundred championships is a reflection feated Stanford 9–4 in the last round of the many a person looking at the wondrous of the teamwork that is the hallmark of UCLA Women’s Water Polo National Championship world of athletics oftentimes thinks athletics and its strong tradition of combining tournament, thereby making history. only of the 11 banners that involves excellence in athletics with excellence in aca- This was the team’s third consecutive NCAA John Wooden’s era as coach of UCLA’s demics. UCLA’s commitment to hard work, championship and its fifth overall national title. basketball team. As has been sug- discipline, and sportsmanship has created a Team member Kelly Rulon was selected as gested, one would really miss the point tradition of victory unparalleled in college the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and of the fabulous work done at the UCLA sports. Ms. Rulon and four of her teammates—Emily campus, way beyond athletics, in aca- Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam Feher, Courtney Mathewson, Jillian Kraus, demics, et cetera. But indeed, the wom- Speaker, I join with my colleagues and Kacy Kunke—were named to the NCAA en’s water polo team set the standard from Iowa and California in support of all-tournament team. by winning the 100th championship this resolution. UCLA won its first national title in men’s ten- when they won one more time. It is a Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of nis in 1950. Since then, 16 different athletics fabulous item to be associated with House Resolution 493—Congratulating the programs—nine men’s programs and seven UCLA and to get this recognition from women’s water polo team of the University of women’s—have won national championships so many great friends. California, Los Angeles, for winning the 2007 in the sports of basketball, golf, gymnastics, In the meantime, I want you all to NCAA Division I Women’s Water Polo Na- soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track and know that my dog Bruin very much ap- tional Championship, and congratulating UCLA field, volleyball, and, of course, water polo. preciates the attention. on its 100th NCAA sports national title, making In the last 5 years alone, under the leader- Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate it the most accomplished athletic program in ship of Athletic Director Dan Guerrero, UCLA the UCLA Bruins for being the most accom- NCAA history. athletics teams have won 14 NCAA national On May 13, 2007, the UCLA women’s water plished athletic program in NCAA history, hav- championships in nine different sports. polo team defeated Stanford 5–4 in the cham- ing won 100 NCAA championships. This extraordinary achievement is a tribute Many observers might presume that for pionship game of the NCAA Division I Wom- to the skill and dedication of the many players, UCLA the only game in town is men’s basket- en’s Water Polo National Championship tour- coaches, students, alumni, families, profes- ball. Many walk into Pauley Pavilion and see nament. sors, staff, and fans who have helped to make 11 championship banners, experience the leg- The victory gave head coach Adam UCLA an athletic powerhouse as well as one acy of John Wooden, and presume that’s all Krikorian and the Bruins women’s water polo of the top academic universities in the Nation. there is. But for UCLA, that is only the begin- team their third consecutive NCAA champion- ning. ship and was the team’s fifth overall national UCLA’s accomplishment also demonstrates The UCLA men’s tennis team won the first title. the success of Title IX. Of the 100 NCAA NCAA championship for the Bruins in 1950 Kelly Rulon, a driver for the Bruins, was se- championships that UCLA teams have earned, and the last 58 years have been witness to an lected as the tournament’s most valuable play- women’s teams have been responsible for 30. unprecedented record of success. Including er; and Emily Feher, Courtney Mathewson, And the NCAA didn’t even begin awarding the 11 men’s basketball titles, UCLA’s cham- Jillian Kraus, and Kacy Kunkel were named to championships in women’s sports until the pionship record extends across 16 different the NCAA All-Tournament First Team. 1981–82 season. programs including multiple titles in men’s The UCLA women’s water polo team fin- To all the athletes of UCLA, past and volleyball, 19; men’s tennis, 16; women’s soft- ished the 2007 season with a record of 28 present, male and female, you rock. ball, 10; men’s track and field, 8; men’s water wins and 2 losses and now has a record of 90 Mr. KUHL of New York. Madam polo, 8; women’s gymnastics, 5; women’s wins and 6 losses over the past 3 seasons. Speaker, I have no further requests for track and field, 5; and women’s water polo, 5. This national title makes UCLA the first time, and I yield back the balance of UCLA’s 100th championship came from the school ever to win 100 NCAA sports national my time. women’s water polo team, which won its third titles—only 58 years after the UCLA men’s Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, I consecutive NCAA Division I championship on tennis team won the school’s first NCAA title yield back the balance of my time. May 13, 2007. The Bruins, coached by Adam in 1950. Along the way, 16 different men’s and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Krikorian, finished 28–2 and have been 90–6 women’s sports programs contributed to the question is on the motion offered by over the past three seasons. Courtney Bruins’ 100 NCAA national championships. the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Mathewson scored three goals and Jillian UCLA teams have won 14 NCAA national LOEBSACK) that the House suspend the Kraus added two more as the Bruins beat rival championships during the tenure of Daniel G. rules and agree to the resolution, H. Stanford. Kelly Rulon was selected as the Guerrero, the current director of athletics. Res. 493, as amended. tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Rulon, Under the leadership of Chancellor Gene The question was taken. Mathewson, and Kraus were joined by Emily Block, UCLA continues to establish itself as The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the Feher and Kacy Kunkel as members to the one of the top research universities as well as opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being NCAA All-Tournament First Team. top athletic programs in the Nation. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. These championships reflect the philoso- I extend my congratulations to Chancellor Mr. LOEBSACK. Madam Speaker, on phies of great Bruin coaches like basketball Block, Athletics Director Guerrero, Head that I demand the yeas and nays. icon John Wooden and volleyball legend Al Coach Adam Krikorian and his staff, all of the The yeas and nays were ordered. Scates. Their commitment to hard work, dis- hard-working players, the fans, and to UCLA. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- cipline, and sportsmanship has created a leg- I am happy to join my good friend and col- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the acy of victory unparalleled in college sports. league Representative LEWIS in honoring this Chair’s prior announcement, further Additionally, the contributions of all the fans, exceptional team and all of its accomplish- proceedings on this motion will be students, alumni, and staff have been instru- ments and wish all involved continued suc- postponed. mental over the years in helping UCLA cess. f achieve 100 championships. Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ of California. The list of Bruin athletes who contributed to Madam Speaker, I proudly rise today to con- RECESS the school’s heritage of victory is a rollcall of gratulate the University of California, Los An- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the greatest athletes of our time: Lewis geles—My alma mater—on its 100th NCAA ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Alcindor, Arthur Ashe, Evelyn Ashford, Jimmy team championship. declares the House in recess until ap- Connors, Gale Devers, Mitch Gaylord, Flor- In a Nation with so many colleges and uni- proximately 6:30 p.m. today. ence Griffith-Joyner, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, versities known for their strong sports pro- Accordingly (at 3 o’clock and 11 min- Karch Kiraly, Jackie Robinson, Bill Walton, grams, heck, in a city the size of Los Angeles utes p.m.), the House stood in recess and others. with sports powerhouse USC right across until approximately 6:30 p.m. I’m especially proud that UCLA is a public town, this is a truly amazing accomplishment. university committed to diversity and fulfilling At UCLA, which has so many firsts in other f the promise of Title IX. Since 1982, Bruin areas, the 2007 UCLA women’s water polo b 1834 women teams have contributed 30 champion- Team helped UCLA reach another first: the AFTER RECESS ships to UCLA’s total. This is enough to put first to 100 NCAA team championships. them 11th on the NCAA’s all-time champions On May 13, 2007, the women’s water polo The recess having expired, the House list. team, led by Head Coach Adam Krikorian, de- was called to order by the Speaker pro

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:17 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.024 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1430 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 tempore (Ms. LEE) at 6 o’clock and 34 Gohmert Lungren, Daniel Roybal-Allard Sanchez, Loretta Udall (CO) Wexler minutes p.m. Gonzalez E. Royce Sullivan Walsh (NY) Wilson (NM) Goode Mack Ruppersberger Taylor Waters Woolsey f Goodlatte Mahoney (FL) Ryan (OH) Thompson (MS) Weldon (FL) Young (FL) Gordon Maloney (NY) Ryan (WI) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Granger Manzullo Salazar b 1859 PRO TEMPORE Graves Markey Sali Green, Al Marshall Sa´ nchez, Linda Mr. HERGER changed his vote from The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Green, Gene Matheson T. ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Grijalva Matsui Sarbanes ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings So (two-thirds being in the affirma- will resume on motions to suspend the Gutierrez McCarthy (CA) Saxton Hall (NY) McCarthy (NY) Schakowsky tive) the rules were suspended and the rules previously postponed. Hall (TX) McCaul (TX) Schiff resolution, as amended, was agreed to. Votes will be taken in the following Hare McCollum (MN) Schmidt The result of the vote was announced order: Harman McCotter Schwartz H. Res. 537, by the yeas and nays; Hastings (FL) McDermott Scott (GA) as above recorded. H.R. 3196, by the yeas and nays; Hastings (WA) McGovern Scott (VA) A motion to reconsider was laid on Hayes McHenry Sensenbrenner the table. H.R. 4166, by the yeas and nays. Heller McHugh Serrano Votes on House Resolutions 924, 948 Hensarling McIntyre Sessions and 493 will be taken later this week. Herger McKeon Sestak f The first electronic vote will be con- Herseth Sandlin McMorris Shadegg ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Higgins Rodgers Shays E. ARTHUR GRAY POST OFFICE Hill McNerney Shea-Porter electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Hinchey McNulty Sherman BUILDING minute votes. Hinojosa Meek (FL) Shimkus The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Hirono Meeks (NY) Shuler finished business is the vote on the mo- f Hobson Melancon Shuster Hodes Mica tion to suspend the rules and pass the NATIONAL 9–1–1 EDUCATION Simpson Hoekstra Michaud Sires bill, H.R. 3196, on which the yeas and MONTH Holden Miller (FL) Skelton nays were ordered. Holt Miller (NC) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Slaughter The Clerk read the title of the bill. Honda Miller, Gary Smith (NE) finished business is the vote on the mo- Hoyer Miller, George Smith (NJ) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tion to suspend the rules and agree to Hunter Mollohan Smith (TX) question is on the motion offered by the resolution, H. Res. 537, as amended, Inglis (SC) Moore (KS) Smith (WA) Inslee Moore (WI) the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. on which the yeas and nays were or- Snyder DAVIS) that the House suspend the Moran (KS) Solis dered. Issa Murphy (CT) Souder rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3196. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Jackson (IL) Murphy, Patrick Space This will be a 5-minute vote. tion. Jackson-Lee Murphy, Tim Spratt The vote was taken by electronic de- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (TX) Murtha Stark Johnson (GA) Musgrave vice, and there were—yeas 382, nays 0, Stearns question is on the motion offered by Johnson (IL) Myrick Stupak not voting 46, as follows: Johnson, E. B. Nadler the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Sutton Johnson, Sam Napolitano [Roll No. 109] DAVIS) that the House suspend the Tancredo Jones (NC) Neugebauer YEAS—382 Tanner rules and agree to the resolution, H. Jones (OH) Nunes Tauscher Abercrombie Cantor Ellison Res. 537, as amended. Jordan Obey Terry Ackerman Capito Ellsworth The vote was taken by electronic de- Kagen Olver Thompson (CA) Aderholt Capps Emanuel Kanjorski Ortiz vice, and there were—yeas 381, nays 0, Thornberry Akin Capuano Engel Kaptur Pallone not voting 47, as follows: Tiahrt Alexander Cardoza English (PA) Keller Pascrell Tiberi Allen Carnahan Eshoo [Roll No. 108] Kennedy Pastor Altmire Carney Etheridge Kildee Paul Tierney YEAS—381 Andrews Carter Everett Kind Payne Towns Abercrombie Buchanan Delahunt Arcuri Castle Fallin King (IA) Pearce Tsongas Ackerman Burgess DeLauro Baca Castor Farr King (NY) Perlmutter Turner Aderholt Burton (IN) Dent Bachmann Chabot Fattah Kingston Peterson (MN) Udall (NM) Akin Butterfield Diaz-Balart, L. Bachus Chandler Feeney Kirk Petri Upton Alexander Camp (MI) Diaz-Balart, M. Baird Clarke Ferguson Klein (FL) Pickering Van Hollen Allen Campbell (CA) Dicks Baldwin Clay Filner Kline (MN) Pitts Vela´ zquez Altmire Cannon Dingell Barrett (SC) Cleaver Flake Knollenberg Platts Visclosky Andrews Cantor Doggett Barrow Clyburn Forbes Kucinich Poe Walberg Arcuri Capito Donnelly Bartlett (MD) Coble Fortenberry Kuhl (NY) Pomeroy Walden (OR) Baca Capps Doyle Barton (TX) Cole (OK) Fossella LaHood Porter Walz (MN) Bachmann Capuano Drake Bean Conaway Foxx Lamborn Price (GA) Wamp Bachus Cardoza Dreier Becerra Conyers Frank (MA) Lampson Price (NC) Wasserman Baird Carnahan Duncan Berkley Cooper Franks (AZ) Larsen (WA) Putnam Schultz Baldwin Carney Edwards Berman Costa Frelinghuysen Larson (CT) Radanovich Watson Barrett (SC) Carter Ehlers Biggert Courtney Gallegly Latham Rahall Watt Barrow Castle Ellison Bilbray Cramer Garrett (NJ) LaTourette Ramstad Waxman Bartlett (MD) Castor Ellsworth Bilirakis Crenshaw Gerlach Latta Regula Weiner Barton (TX) Chabot Emanuel Bishop (GA) Crowley Giffords Lee Rehberg Welch (VT) Bean Chandler Emerson Bishop (NY) Culberson Gillibrand Levin Reichert Weller Becerra Clarke Engel Bishop (UT) Cummings Gingrey Lewis (CA) Renzi Westmoreland Berkley Clay English (PA) Blackburn Davis (AL) Gohmert Lewis (GA) Reyes Whitfield (KY) Berman Cleaver Eshoo Blumenauer Davis (CA) Gonzalez Lewis (KY) Reynolds Wilson (OH) Biggert Clyburn Etheridge Blunt Davis (IL) Goode Linder Richardson Wilson (SC) Bilbray Coble Everett Boehner Davis (KY) Goodlatte Lipinski Rogers (AL) Wittman (VA) Bilirakis Cole (OK) Fallin Bono Mack Davis, David Gordon LoBiondo Rogers (KY) Wolf Bishop (GA) Conaway Farr Boozman Davis, Lincoln Granger Loebsack Rogers (MI) Wu Bishop (NY) Conyers Fattah Boren Deal (GA) Graves Lofgren, Zoe Roskam Wynn Bishop (UT) Cooper Feeney Boswell DeFazio Green, Al Lowey Ross Yarmuth Blackburn Costa Ferguson Boucher DeGette Green, Gene Lucas Rothman Young (AK) Blumenauer Courtney Filner Boustany Delahunt Grijalva Boyd (FL) DeLauro Gutierrez Blunt Cramer Flake NOT VOTING—47 Boehner Crenshaw Forbes Boyda (KS) Dent Hall (NY) Bono Mack Crowley Fortenberry Berry Davis, Tom Mitchell Brady (PA) Diaz-Balart, L. Hall (TX) Boozman Culberson Fossella Bonner Doolittle Moran (VA) Brady (TX) Diaz-Balart, M. Hare Boswell Cummings Foxx Boren Gilchrest Neal (MA) Braley (IA) Dicks Harman Boucher Davis (AL) Frank (MA) Brown, Corrine Hooley Oberstar Broun (GA) Dingell Hastings (FL) Boustany Davis (CA) Franks (AZ) Brown-Waite, Hulshof Pence Brown (SC) Doggett Hastings (WA) Boyd (FL) Davis (IL) Frelinghuysen Ginny Jefferson Peterson (PA) Buchanan Donnelly Hayes Boyda (KS) Davis (KY) Gallegly Buyer Kilpatrick Pryce (OH) Burgess Doyle Heller Brady (PA) Davis, David Garrett (NJ) Calvert Langevin Rangel Burton (IN) Drake Hensarling Brady (TX) Davis, Lincoln Gerlach Cohen Lynch Rodriguez Butterfield Dreier Herger Braley (IA) Deal (GA) Giffords Costello Marchant Rohrabacher Camp (MI) Duncan Herseth Sandlin Broun (GA) DeFazio Gillibrand Cubin McCrery Ros-Lehtinen Campbell (CA) Edwards Higgins Brown (SC) DeGette Gingrey Cuellar Miller (MI) Rush Cannon Ehlers Hill

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:11 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.028 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1431

Hinchey McDermott Sa´ nchez, Linda ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Inslee McNerney Schakowsky Hinojosa McGovern T. The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Israel McNulty Schiff Hirono McHenry Sarbanes Issa Meek (FL) Schmidt Hobson McHugh Saxton the vote). Members are advised there Jackson (IL) Meeks (NY) Schwartz Hodes McIntyre Schakowsky are 2 minutes remaining in this vote. Jackson-Lee Melancon Scott (GA) Hoekstra McKeon Schiff (TX) Mica Scott (VA) Holden McMorris Schmidt b 1909 Johnson (GA) Michaud Sensenbrenner Holt Rodgers Schwartz Johnson (IL) Miller (FL) Serrano Honda McNerney Scott (GA) So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Johnson, E. B. Miller (NC) Sessions Hoyer McNulty Scott (VA) tive) the rules were suspended and the Johnson, Sam Miller, Gary Sestak Hunter Meek (FL) Sensenbrenner bill was passed. Jones (NC) Miller, George Shadegg Inglis (SC) Meeks (NY) Serrano The result of the vote was announced Jones (OH) Mollohan Shays Jordan Moore (KS) Shea-Porter Inslee Melancon Sessions as above recorded. Israel Mica Sestak Kagen Moore (WI) Sherman Issa Michaud Shadegg A motion to reconsider was laid on Kanjorski Moran (KS) Shimkus Kaptur Murphy (CT) Shuler Jackson (IL) Miller (FL) Shays the table. Keller Murphy, Patrick Shuster Jackson-Lee Miller (NC) Shea-Porter Kennedy Murphy, Tim Simpson (TX) Miller, Gary Sherman f Kildee Musgrave Sires Johnson (GA) Miller, George Shimkus Kind Myrick Skelton Johnson (IL) Mollohan Shuler STEVE W. ALLEE CARRIER ANNEX King (IA) Nadler Slaughter Johnson, E. B. Moore (KS) Shuster The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- King (NY) Napolitano Smith (NE) Johnson, Sam Moore (WI) Simpson finished business is the vote on the mo- Kingston Neugebauer Smith (NJ) Jones (NC) Moran (KS) Sires tion to suspend the rules and pass the Kirk Nunes Smith (TX) Jones (OH) Murphy (CT) Skelton Klein (FL) Obey Smith (WA) Jordan Murphy, Patrick Slaughter bill, H.R. 4166, on which the yeas and Kline (MN) Olver Snyder Kagen Murphy, Tim Smith (NE) nays were ordered. Knollenberg Ortiz Solis Kanjorski Murtha Smith (NJ) The Clerk read the title of the bill. Kucinich Pallone Souder Kaptur Musgrave Smith (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Kuhl (NY) Pascrell Space Keller Myrick Smith (WA) LaHood Pastor Spratt Kennedy Nadler Snyder question is on the motion offered by Lamborn Paul Stark Kildee Napolitano Solis the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Lampson Payne Stearns Kind Neugebauer Souder DAVIS) that the House suspend the Langevin Pearce Stupak King (IA) Nunes Space rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4166. Larsen (WA) Perlmutter Sullivan King (NY) Obey Spratt Larson (CT) Peterson (MN) Sutton Kingston Olver Stark This will be a 5-minute vote. Latham Petri Tancredo Kirk Ortiz Stearns The vote was taken by electronic de- LaTourette Pickering Tanner Klein (FL) Pallone Stupak vice, and there were—yeas 382, nays 0, Latta Pitts Tauscher Lee Platts Terry Kline (MN) Pascrell Sullivan not voting 46, as follows: Knollenberg Pastor Sutton Levin Poe Thompson (CA) Kucinich Paul Tancredo [Roll No. 110] Lewis (CA) Pomeroy Thornberry Lewis (GA) Porter Tiahrt Kuhl (NY) Payne Tanner YEAS—382 Lewis (KY) Price (GA) Tiberi LaHood Pearce Tauscher Abercrombie Cardoza Everett Linder Price (NC) Tierney Lamborn Perlmutter Terry Ackerman Carnahan Fallin Lipinski Putnam Towns Lampson Peterson (MN) Thompson (CA) Aderholt Carney Farr LoBiondo Radanovich Tsongas Langevin Petri Thornberry Akin Carter Fattah Loebsack Rahall Udall (NM) Larsen (WA) Pickering Tiahrt Alexander Castle Feeney Lofgren, Zoe Ramstad Upton Larson (CT) Pitts Tiberi Allen Castor Ferguson Lowey Regula Van Hollen Latham Platts Tierney Altmire Chabot Filner Lucas Rehberg Vela´ zquez LaTourette Poe Towns Andrews Chandler Flake Lungren, Daniel Reichert Visclosky Latta Pomeroy Tsongas Arcuri Clarke Forbes E. Renzi Walberg Lee Porter Udall (NM) Baca Clay Fortenberry Mack Reyes Walden (OR) Levin Price (GA) Upton Bachmann Cleaver Fossella Mahoney (FL) Reynolds Walz (MN) Lewis (CA) Price (NC) Van Hollen Bachus Clyburn Foxx Maloney (NY) Richardson Wamp Lewis (GA) Putnam Vela´ zquez Baird Coble Frank (MA) Manzullo Rodriguez Wasserman Lewis (KY) Radanovich Visclosky Baldwin Cole (OK) Franks (AZ) Markey Rogers (AL) Schultz Linder Rahall Walberg Barrett (SC) Conaway Frelinghuysen Marshall Rogers (KY) Watson Lipinski Ramstad Walden (OR) Barrow Conyers Gallegly Matheson Rogers (MI) Watt Bartlett (MD) Cooper Garrett (NJ) LoBiondo Regula Walz (MN) Matsui Roskam Waxman Barton (TX) Costa Gerlach Loebsack Rehberg Wamp McCarthy (CA) Ross Weiner Bean Courtney Giffords Lofgren, Zoe Reichert Wasserman McCarthy (NY) Rothman Welch (VT) Becerra Cramer Gillibrand McCaul (TX) Roybal-Allard Weller Lowey Renzi Schultz Berkley Crenshaw Gingrey Lucas Reyes Watson McCollum (MN) Royce Westmoreland Berman Crowley Gohmert McCotter Ruppersberger Whitfield (KY) Lungren, Daniel Reynolds Watt Biggert Culberson Gonzalez E. Richardson Waxman McDermott Ryan (OH) Wilson (OH) Bilbray Cummings Goode McGovern Ryan (WI) Wilson (SC) Mack Rogers (AL) Weiner Bilirakis Davis (AL) Goodlatte McHenry Salazar Wittman (VA) Mahoney (FL) Rogers (KY) Welch (VT) Bishop (GA) Davis (CA) Gordon McHugh Sali Wolf Maloney (NY) Rogers (MI) Weller Bishop (NY) Davis (IL) Granger McIntyre Sa´ nchez, Linda Wu Manzullo Roskam Westmoreland Bishop (UT) Davis (KY) Graves McKeon T. Wynn Markey Ross Whitfield (KY) Blackburn Davis, David Green, Al McMorris Sarbanes Yarmuth Marshall Rothman Wilson (OH) Blumenauer Davis, Lincoln Green, Gene Rodgers Saxton Young (AK) Matheson Roybal-Allard Wilson (SC) Blunt Deal (GA) Gutierrez Boehner DeFazio Hall (NY) Matsui Royce Wittman (VA) NOT VOTING—46 McCarthy (CA) Ruppersberger Wolf Bono Mack DeGette Hall (TX) McCarthy (NY) Ryan (OH) Wu Boozman Delahunt Hare Berry Hulshof Rohrabacher McCaul (TX) Ryan (WI) Wynn Boren DeLauro Harman Bonner Jefferson Ros-Lehtinen McCollum (MN) Salazar Yarmuth Boswell Dent Hastings (FL) Brown, Corrine Kilpatrick Rush McCotter Sali Young (AK) Boucher Diaz-Balart, L. Hastings (WA) Brown-Waite, Lynch Sanchez, Loretta Boustany Diaz-Balart, M. Hayes Ginny Marchant Taylor NOT VOTING—46 Boyd (FL) Dicks Heller Buyer McCrery Thompson (MS) Boyda (KS) Dingell Hensarling Calvert Miller (MI) Turner Berry Hulshof Rohrabacher Brady (PA) Doggett Herger Cohen Mitchell Udall (CO) Bonner Jefferson Ros-Lehtinen Brady (TX) Donnelly Herseth Sandlin Costello Moran (VA) Walsh (NY) Brown, Corrine Kilpatrick Rush Braley (IA) Doyle Higgins Cubin Murtha Waters Brown-Waite, Lynch Sanchez, Loretta Broun (GA) Drake Hill Cuellar Neal (MA) Weldon (FL) Ginny Marchant Taylor Brown (SC) Dreier Hinchey Davis, Tom Oberstar Wexler Buyer McCrery Thompson (MS) Buchanan Duncan Hinojosa Doolittle Pence Wilson (NM) Calvert Miller (MI) Turner Burgess Edwards Hirono Gilchrest Peterson (PA) Woolsey Cohen Mitchell Udall (CO) Burton (IN) Ehlers Hobson Grijalva Pryce (OH) Costello Moran (VA) Butterfield Ellison Hodes Young (FL) Walsh (NY) Hooley Rangel Cubin Neal (MA) Camp (MI) Ellsworth Hoekstra Waters Cuellar Oberstar Campbell (CA) Emanuel Holden Weldon (FL) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Davis, Tom Pence Cannon Emerson Holt Doolittle Peterson (PA) Wexler Cantor Engel Honda The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Emerson Pryce (OH) Wilson (NM) Capito English (PA) Hoyer Gilchrest Rangel Woolsey Capps Eshoo Hunter the vote). Members are advised there Hooley Rodriguez Young (FL) Capuano Etheridge Inglis (SC) are 2 minutes remaining in this vote.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR7.017 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1432 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 b 1918 perhaps more frequently. And it is ex- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. I So (two-thirds being in the affirma- tremely important for us to recognize would just note that, as the gentleman tive) the rules were suspended and the this as we confront genocide in other has mentioned, it is important that we bill was passed. parts of the world, to recognize the honor the 5 years of service and sac- The result of the vote was announced genocide that started all genocides and rifice of our troops and their families as above recorded. started the discussions about the hor- in the war in Iraq and remember our A motion to reconsider was laid on rible nature of genocide. So I’m very troops serving in and the table. strongly in favor of this. throughout the world. Madam Speaker, I withdraw my res- I would note that Ranking Member f ervation. EHLERS is a cosponsor of this resolu- PERSONAL EXPLANATION The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion, and both conflicts are still ongo- objection to the request of the gentle- ing. Our troops’ efforts have gone Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico. Madam woman from California? Speaker, on rollcall Nos. 108, 109, and 110 I above and beyond the call of duty. There was no objection. Their sacrifice and dedication to their was unavoidably delayed. Had I been present, The text of the concurrent resolution I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ country must be honored, as well as is as follows: the sacrifice and dedication of Amer- f H. CON. RES. 306 ican troops stationed at home and PERSONAL EXPLANATION Resolved by the House of Representatives (the around the world. And I am pleased Senate concurring), that we will have this important rec- Ms. KILPATRICK. Madam Speaker, due to SECTION 1. USE OF ROTUNDA FOR HOLOCAUST ognition in the people’s House, in the official business in the 13th Congressional DAYS OF REMEMBRANCE CERE- rotunda. District of Michigan, I was unable to attend MONY. The Rotunda of the Capitol is authorized I thank the gentleman for yielding. several votes. Had I been present, I would to be used on May 1, 2008, for a ceremony as Mr. EHLERS. Reserving the right to have voted ‘‘yea’’ on final passage of H. Res. part of the commemoration of the days of re- object, I simply want to thank the gen- 537, Expressing support for the designation membrance of victims of the Holocaust. tlewoman from California for her good and goals of ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education Physical preparations for the ceremony shall comments. And I hope every Member of Month,’’ ‘‘yea’’ on final passage of H.R. 3196, be carried out in accordance with such condi- this Congress will in approving To designate the facility of the United States tions as the Architect of the Capitol may this particular resolution. Postal Service located at 20 Sussex Street in prescribe. Madam Speaker, I withdraw my res- Port Jervis, New York, as the ‘‘E. Arthur Gray The concurrent resolution was agreed ervation of objection. Post Office Building,’’ and ‘‘yea’’ on final pas- to. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sage of H.R. 4166, To designate the facility of A motion to reconsider was laid on objection to the request of the gentle- the United States Postal Service located at the table. woman from California? 701 East Copeland Drive in Lebanon, Mis- f There was no objection. souri, as the ‘‘Steve W. Allee Carrier Annex.’’ AUTHORIZING THE USE OF THE The text of the concurrent resolution f ROTUNDA OF THE CAPITOL FOR is as follows: A CEREMONY TO HONOR THE 5 PERSONAL EXPLANATION H. CON. RES. 313 YEARS OF SERVICE AND SAC- Mr. MITCHELL. Madam Speaker, I was ab- Resolved by the House of Representatives (the RIFICE OF OUR TROOPS AND Senate concurring), sent today from three rollcall votes due to fam- THEIR FAMILIES IN THE WAR IN ily obligations in Arizona that required my at- SECTION 1. USE OF ROTUNDA FOR CEREMONY IRAQ AND TO REMEMBER THOSE HONORING THOSE SERVING IN AF- tention. WHO ARE SERVING OUR NATION GHANISTAN AND IRAQ. Had I been present, I would have voted in IN AFGHANISTAN AND THROUGH- (a) USE OF ROTUNDA.—The rotunda of the favor of H. Res. 537, rollcall vote No. 108; OUT THE WORLD Capitol is authorized to be used on March 13, H.R. 3196, rollcall vote No. 109; and H.R. 2008, for a ceremony to honor the 5 years of Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. 4166, rollcall vote No. 110. service and sacrifice of our troops and their Madam Speaker, I send a concurrent families in the war in Iraq and to remember f resolution, H. Con. Res. 313, to the desk those who are serving our Nation in Afghani- PERMITTING THE USE OF THE RO- and ask unanimous consent for its im- stan and throughout the world. TUNDA OF THE CAPITOL FOR A mediate consideration in the House. (b) PREPARATIONS.—Physical preparations CEREMONY AS PART OF THE The Clerk read the title of the con- for the ceremony referred to in subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with COMMEMORATION OF THE DAYS current resolution. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there such conditions as the Architect of the Cap- OF REMEMBRANCE OF VICTIMS itol may prescribe. OF THE HOLOCAUST objection to the request of the gentle- woman from California? The concurrent resolution was agreed Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, I re- to. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous con- serve the right to object, but I will not A motion to reconsider was laid on sent to discharge the Committee on object. I simply want to point out this the table. House Administration from further is a very important thing that we f consideration of House Concurrent Res- should do for our troops. I’m delighted GENERAL LEAVE olution 306, and ask for its immediate that someone has suggested that we consideration in the House. use the rotunda for this purpose. Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. The Clerk read the title of the con- We all know how difficult it has been Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous con- current resolution. for the troops in both Afghanistan and sent that all Members have 5 legisla- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Iraq and in other parts of the world. We tive days to revise and extend their re- objection to the request of the gentle- also know that there is not universal marks in the RECORD on the two con- woman from California? support in our country for the work current resolutions just considered. Mr. EHLERS. Madam Speaker, I re- that they are doing, and this makes The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there serve the right to object, but I will not their job doubly difficult. So I’m very objection to the request of the gentle- object. pleased to support this resolution and woman from California? Madam Speaker, this is a very impor- make certain that we truly and prop- There was no objection. tant resolution. It’s something we do erly honor the work of our Armed f every year, and I can’t imagine any Forces and their families throughout REMARKS OF CONGRESSMAN more appropriate use of the rotunda of the world when they work in such dif- REGARDING SEN- the Capitol than to recognize and com- ficult circumstances. memorate the days of the Holocaust Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. ATOR and the victims of the Holocaust. It’s Will the gentleman yield? (Ms. SCHAKOWSKY asked and was something that we do every year, Mr. EHLERS. Yes, I would be de- given permission to address the House something we should do every year and lighted to yield. for 1 minute.)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.034 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1433 Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Madam Speaker, uate of Port Jervis High School before (Mr. POE addressed the House. His I rise to strongly condemn the remarks leaving briefly for college, only to re- remarks will appear hereafter in the made about U.S. Senator and Demo- turn as president and co-owner of the Extensions of Remarks.) cratic Presidential Candidate BARACK Gray-Parker Funeral Home in his na- f OBAMA by Congressman STEVE KING of tive Port Jervis. SUNSET MEMORIAL Iowa, who said that if BARACK OBAMA Art Gray’s participation in public life became President, al Qaeda terrorists extended to government service. He The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a would, and I quote, ‘‘be dancing in the was mayor of Port Jervis from 1978 to previous order of the House, the gen- streets in greater numbers than they 1988. A lifetime resident of Port Jervis, tleman from Arizona (Mr. FRANKS) is did on September 11.’’ Why? Because, Gray gave his undivided attention to recognized for 5 minutes. he said, ‘‘of his middle name and be- issues, both large and small, and was Mr. FRANKS of Arizona. Madam Speaker, I stand with yet another sun- cause of who his father was.’’ widely known for his open-door policy. set memorial. It is March 10, 2008, in Senator OBAMA, like all of us in this Art Gray remains the longest-serving the land of the free and the home of the House, swore on the Bible to defend our mayor in the history of Port Jervis. brave, and before the sunset today in country from all enemies, foreign and During his tenure he was able to rein- America, almost 4,000 more defenseless domestic. He has done nothing to war- vigorate the downtown area and great- unborn children were killed by abor- rant this attack. He has served his ly improve the city’s economic devel- tion on demand. That’s just today, country honorably in the U.S. Senate. opment plan. Citizens of the local area Madam Speaker. That’s more than the This attack on his patriotism, religion, remember Art as a man who was gen- number of innocent American lives heritage, and middle name amount to erous in nature and willing to help that were lost on September 11, only it nothing more than a smear campaign. those in need. After finishing his serv- happens every day. I would fully expect these comments ice as mayor, Art Gray maintained his It has now been exactly 12,831 days to come from people like Rush commitment to public service by suc- since the travesty called Roe v. Wade Limbaugh or Ann Coulter, not from cessfully running for a seat in the New was handed down by an arrogant Su- one of my House colleagues. There is York State senate in 1988. preme Court. Since then, the very simply no room in this country for re- He represented the 39th Senatorial foundation of this Nation has been marks like these, remarks that Mr. District in that capacity until 1990. But stained by the blood of almost 50 mil- KING declares he stands by. E. Arthur Gray’s contributions to his lion of our own children. I urge my colleagues to join me in city and his country were not limited Some of them, Madam Speaker, cried condemning these hateful remarks. to business and politics. He served as a and screamed as they died, but because f lieutenant in the U.S. Naval Reserve it was amniotic fluid passing over their during World War II. He was also deep- vocal cords instead of air, we couldn’t SPECIAL ORDERS ly involved in community life, and the hear them. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under list of organizations that count him as All of them had at least four things the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- a member is astounding. in common: They were each just little uary 18, 2007, and under a previous At one time or another, Art Gray was babies that had done nothing wrong to order of the House, the following Mem- a member of the Port Jervis Commu- anyone; each one of them died a name- bers will be recognized for 5 minutes nity Development Agency, the Orange less and lonely death; and each of their each. County Economic Development Agen- mothers, whether she realizes it imme- f cy, the National League of Small Cities diately or not, will never be the same; Advisory Council, St. Mary’s Roman and all the gifts these children might H.R. 3196, NAMING THE PORT JER- have brought to humanity are now lost VIS POST OFFICE THE E. AR- Catholic Church, Bon Secours Commu- nity Hospital Advisory Board, Knights forever. THUR GRAY POST OFFICE Yet, even in the full glare of such of Columbus Council No. 471, Ancient tragedy, this generation still clings to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Order of Hibernians in America, Elks a blind, invisible ignorance while his- previous order of the House, the gen- Lodge No. 645, BPOE, Port Jervis Lions tory repeats itself and our own silent tleman from New York (Mr. HALL) is Club, Tri-States Chamber of Com- recognized for 5 minutes. genocide mercilessly annihilates the merce, Port Jervis Country Club, most helpless of all victims to date, Mr. HALL of New York. Madam Metaque Falls Hunting Club, Tri- Speaker, just moments ago, this body those yet unborn. States Rod and Gun Club, the Port Jer- Madam Speaker, perhaps it’s impor- voted to pay an appropriate tribute to vis Board of Education, and Port Jervis a dedicated public servant in New tant for those of us in this Chamber to Planning Board. remind ourselves again of why we are York’s 19th Congressional District. When you look at that list, you gain On April 10, 2007, the Hudson Valley really all here. a true appreciation for how much time, Thomas Jefferson said, ‘‘The care of lost one of its most involved leaders energy, and dedication Art Gray de- when E. Arthur Gray, a former five- human life and its happiness and not voted to betterment of his hometown. its destruction is the only chief and term mayor of Port Jervis and New However, he devoted just as much, if only object of good government.’’ York State Senator, passed away at not more, to his family and friends. He The phrase in the 14th amendment the age of 82 years old. He left behind was extremely devoted to his wife, capsulizes our entire Constitution. It a legacy of friendship, involvement and Helen; son, Gerald; daughter, Brigid; says, ‘‘No State shall deprive any per- service that earned him a permanent and numerous other family members son of life, liberty or property without place in the heart of Port Jervis and and close friends. He is remembered by due process of law.’’ Madam Speaker, serves as an example of what it means those closest to him as enthusiastic, protecting the lives of our innocent to work for the betterment of your optimistic, supporting, loving, and in- citizens and their constitutional rights community. spirational. is why we are all here. It is our sworn By voting to pass legislation that Through it all, E. Arthur Gray’s life oath. would redesignate the post office in was deeply interwoven with the fabric The bedrock foundation of this Re- Port Jervis, New York, as the E. Ar- of Port Jervis, his home, and it is fit- public is that clarion declaration of the thur Gray Post Office Building, the ting that the adoption of this bill will self-evident truth that all human House has acknowledged the contribu- help memorialize his service. beings are created equal and endowed tions of an individual who loved his by their creator with the unalienable hometown and who, as a businessman, f rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit government official and family man, of happiness. Every conflict and battle dedicated a significant portion of his b 1930 our Nation has ever faced can be traced time and energy to its civic life. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a to our core commitment to this self- Simply put, Arthur Gray was a Port previous order of the House, the gen- evident truth. It has made us the bea- Jervis resident to the core: born Feb- tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) is recog- con of hope for the whole world. It is ruary 28, 1925, in Port Jervis, a grad- nized for 5 minutes. who we are.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.037 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1434 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 And yet, Madam Speaker, another ported that employers made their deep- The job loss was widespread, reaching be- day has passed, and we in this body est cuts in staffing in almost 5 years in yond the battered construction sector, which have failed again to honor that February. There was a net loss of 63,000 lost 39,000 and manufacturing, where job foundational commitment. We failed more jobs, which is the biggest decline losses hit 52,000. Retailers cut 34,000 jobs, while business and professional services cut our sworn oath and our God-given re- since March 2003, and weaker than the 20,000 jobs. sponsibilities as we broke faith with revised 22,000 job loss reported for Jan- Temporary staffing firms cut nearly 28,000 nearly 4,000 more innocent American uary. The job loss was widespread, jobs off their payrolls, another warning sign babies who died today without the pro- reaching beyond the battered construc- of employers pulling back, and hotels cut tection that we should have given tion industry, which lost 39,000 jobs, about 4,000 jobs, a sign that discretionary them. and manufacturing, where job losses consumer spending could be on the wane. It seems so sad, Madam Speaker, hit 52,000. Overall the private sector cut 101,000 jobs, that this sunset memorial may be the Retailers cut 34,000 jobs while busi- with only a gain in government employment limiting losses. only public remembrance these chil- ness and professional service cut 20,000 jobs. Temporary staffing firms cut Despite the job loss, the unemployment dren who died today will ever have in improved to 4.8% from the 4.9% reading in this Chamber. So, as small a gesture as nearly 28,000 jobs off their payrolls, an- January. Economists had forecast the unem- it might be, I would respectfully ask other warning sign of employers pull- ployment rate would rise to 5%. The rate fell this moment for a moment of silence ing back, and hotels cut about 4,000 because of a big jump in the number of peo- for those lost little Americans. jobs, a sign that discretionary con- ple that the government counted as no Madam Speaker, let me conclude in sumer spending could be on the wane. longer in the labor force. the hope that perhaps someone new Overall, the private sector cut over The labor market has weakened signifi- who hears this sunset memorial to- 101,000 jobs according to the CNN cantly in recent months, prompting fears of Moneyline report. recession along with a $170 billion economic night will finally realize that abortion stimulus package and a series of interest really does kill little babies, that it The widening recession in almost every sector, not just the goods-pro- rate cuts from the Federal Reserve. hurts mothers in ways that we can The Fed is next set to meet March 18 to never express, and that 12,831 days kill- ducing sector, is extraordinarily im- consider what to do with interest rates. Fri- ing nearly 50 million unborn children portant. I wish to place those numbers day’s report would seem to suggest more in America is enough; and that the in the RECORD and say, Madam Speak- rate cuts are on the way, despite the im- America that rejected human slavery er, America needs to create more real proved unemployment rate. and marched into to arrest the wealth here at home and stop bor- f rowing prosperity and piling on more Nazi Holocaust is still courageous and COMMITTEE HEARINGS ON CON- compassionate enough to find a better debt. We need to create jobs leading to energy independence in this country. STITUTIONAL WAR POWERS RES- way for mothers and their babies than OLUTION OF 2007 abortion on demand. We need to do more than just sort of So tonight, Madam Speaker, may we flash our hand at that and be serious The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a each remind ourselves that our own about it. previous order of the House, the gen- We need new transportation systems days in this sunshine of life are also tleman from (Mr. in our country. We need new bridges in numbered, and that all too soon, each JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. the ground. We need people to be em- of us will walk through these Chambers Mr. JONES of North Carolina. ployed, those who now are idle labor, in for the very last time. And if it should Madam Speaker, this Thursday, March helping to build back our economy be that this Congress is allowed to con- 13, 2008, the International Organiza- from coast to coast. vene at yet another day to come, may tions, Human Rights, and Oversight A real stimulus package would lead Subcommittee will conduct a hearing that be the day when we finally hear our Nation to invest here at home, not the cries of the innocent unborn. May on ‘‘War Powers for the 21st Century: just to borrow more from abroad. The Congressional Perspective.’’ I that be the day when we find the hu- These numbers are serious omens. manity, the courage, and the will to would like to thank Chairman BILL They’re warning signs to those who DELAHUNT and Ranking Member DANA embrace together our human and con- have responsibility here in Washington stitutional duty to protect the least of ROHRABACHER for scheduling this hear- to do more than manipulate interest ing. It is my understanding that Chair- these, our tiny American brothers and rates. They would engage this Congress man DELAHUNT and Ranking Member sisters, from this murderous scourge in an effort to build forward again in ROHRABACHER also plan to hold two ad- upon our Nation called abortion on de- those sectors that would leave future mand. ditional war powers hearings during generations real wealth, the kind of the month of April. It is March 10, 2008, Madam Speaker, wealth that our ancestors left us: li- I am extremely grateful for their in- 12,831 days since Roe v. Wade first braries, schools, highways, bridges, terest in this very important issue. stained the foundation of this Nation new energy systems, clean water sys- Along with former Congressmen David with the blood of its own children. tems, new transportation systems, new Skaggs and Mickey Edwards, who are This, in the land of the free and the high-speed rail, new air control towers; cochairmen of the Constitutional home of the brave. the kind of wealth that can’t be Projects War Powers Initiative, this f outsourced that belongs to the Amer- Thursday I will testify on the legisla- JOBS POST BIGGEST DROP ican people for generations to come. Madam Speaker, I place in the tion I introduced in October of 2007, the IN 5 YEARS Constitutional War Powers Resolution, RECORD the figures from the CNN The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Moneyline report about what happened H.J. Res. 53. previous order of the House, the gentle- with the biggest job loss in 5 years in Too many times this Congress has woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is rec- this past quarter. abdicated its constitutional duty by al- lowing Presidents to overstep their ex- ognized for 5 minutes. JOBS POST BIGGEST DROP IN 5 YEARS Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, since (By Chris Isidore) ecutive authority. Our Constitution 2000, our Nation has lost over 3,400,000 states that while the Commander-in- NEW YORK.—Employers made their deepest more manufacturing jobs. In fact, the cut in staffing in almost five years in Feb- Chief has the power to conduct wars, job creation record of the Bush admin- ruary, according to a closely watched gov- only Congress has the power to author- istration is the worst since the Hoover ernment report Friday that showed the labor ize war. administration. market far weaker than expected, fueling al- It is for this reason that in 1999 I The figures released by the U.S. De- ready building recession fears. joined 16 of my colleagues in Congress partment of Labor last week posted the There was a net loss of 63,000 jobs, accord- to file a suit against President Clinton largest job loss in 5 years. The report ing to the Labor Department, which is the for unconstitutionally conducting of- biggest decline since March 2003 and weaker was much weaker than expected, and, than the revised 22,000 job loss reported for fensive military attacks against Yugo- strangely, the unemployment rate de- January. Economists surveyed by slavia without obtaining a declaration clined because there were fewer people Briefing.com had forecast a gain of 25,000 of war or other explicit authorizations in the workforce. CNN’s Moneyline re- jobs in the most recent reading. from Congress.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.041 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1435 Now, as threats to international tion’s image and increase our leader- give us greater leverage to ensure that peace and security continue to evolve, ship in the international community. we have peaceful and prosperous neigh- the Constitutional War Powers Resolu- They talk about diplomacy and soft bors. And we know that peace and pros- tion, H.J. Res. 53, rededicates Congress power, and then they turn around and perity, Madam Speaker, go hand in to its primary constitutional role of insist we try to withdraw from the hand. deciding when to use force abroad. worldwide marketplace and cede our We simply cannot disengage eco- In 1793, James Madison said, ‘‘ ... global economic leadership. It has even nomically without disengaging politi- The power to declare war, including been suggested by them that we go cally. Engagement through trade is our the power of judging the causes of war, back on a 14-year deal with our two source of strength and our leadership, is fully and exclusively vested in the closest neighbors, including our neigh- and we would disengage to our peril. legislature . . . the executive has no bor to the north who has been such a Those who regard our leadership in the right, in any case, to decide the ques- key political ally. international community so casually tion, whether there is or is not cause Perhaps this outlandish rhetoric is that they would trash it for political for declaring war.’’ delivered with a wink and a nod. Per- gain threaten not only our own pros- The Framers of our Constitution haps it’s merely an attempt to score a perity, but our ability to play a posi- sought to decentralize the war powers few political points without any inten- tive role in this hemisphere and around of the United States and construct a tion to actually dismantle the deep the globe as we seek to grow our econo- balance between the political branches. economic and political ties that we mies and to grow the economies of our b 1945 share with our trading partners in this neighbors. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 hemisphere. Frankly, I hope that that f aimed to clarify the intent of the con- is the case. But either way, Madam Speaker, this is very dangerous rhet- U.S.-COLOMBIA TRADE PROMOTION stitutional Framers and to ensure that AGREEMENT Congress and the President share in oric. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a the decision-making process in the NAFTA has long been addressed by event of armed conflict. Yet, since the those running for office as though it previous order of the House, the gen- enactment of the resolution, time and were an unmitigated disaster; no one tleman from Illinois (Mr. WELLER) is again Presidents have maintained that seems to want to touch it with a 10- recognized for 5 minutes. Mr. WELLER of Illinois. Madam the resolution’s consultation, report- foot pole. After all, everyone knows Speaker, I rise to support the U.S.-Co- ing, and congressional authorization that NAFTA has hurt our economy and lombia Trade Promotion Agreement, to requirements are unconstitutional ob- cost us millions of jobs. Right? Wrong. urge the Speaker of this House to bring stacles to executive authority. In 1994, when Bill Clinton sent NAFTA By more fully clarifying the war pow- to the Congress, the gross domestic the U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion ers of the President and the Congress, product in this country was $6.9 tril- Agreement to this House floor for a the legislation I’ve introduced, H.J. lion. Today, we have a $14.1 trillion vote. Res. 53, the Constitutional War Powers economy. In other words, we have more And let me tell you this: this agree- Resolution, improves upon the War than doubled the size of our economy ment is good for the State that I rep- Powers Resolution of 1973 in a number in the NAFTA-era. When adjusted for resent. It’s good for Colombia. It’s good of ways. It clearly spells out the pow- inflation, the numbers are still very for the United States. It’s good for Illi- ers that the Congress and the President striking, with 50 percent growth since nois farmers. It’s good for Illinois must exercise collectively, as well as 1994. During the same period, 25 million workers. And it’s good for Illinois man- the defensive measures the Commander jobs have been created, while our labor ufacturing. And I would note that in my district in Chief may exercise without congres- force has grown by 18 million. I have 8,000 Caterpillar workers, union sional approval. It also provides a more Fourteen years of NAFTA have seen Caterpillar workers who are manufac- robust reporting requirement that our economy grow considerably while turing workers. And under this agree- would enable Congress to be more in- more Americans are working than ever ment, I note under the U.S.-Colombia formed and to have greater oversight. before and new jobs have abounded. To Trade Agreement that our machinery And it protects and preserves the put it bluntly, anyone who says that exports see their tariffs imposed on Il- checks and balances the Framers in- NAFTA has destroyed our economy is linois-made construction equipment tended in the decision to bring our Na- flat out wrong. Not only has the pre- eliminated on day one. Now, you think tion into war. dicted ‘‘giant sucking sound’’ that we Madam Speaker, I look forward to heard about during the NAFTA debate about it, mining equipment used in Co- congressional hearings on this critical not come to pass, but the precise oppo- lombia is $1 million equipment, that’s issue. The time for Congress to meet site has taken place. a $100,000 tax on U.S.-made products its constitutional duty is long overdue. But, Madam Speaker, NAFTA is just eliminated on day one. And with that, Madam Speaker, I one component of the complex rela- Currently, Illinois exports $214 mil- would like to ask God to continue to tionships that entail our global engage- lion to Colombia, and that’s just the bless our men and women in Afghani- ment, where the economic and the po- beginning. According to the Inter- stan and Iraq, and to ask God to con- litical are inextricably entwined, and national Trade Commission, Illinois is tinue to bless the families of our men nowhere is this role more critical than a big winner. Pork products will in- and women in uniform. in our own neighborhood. We have crease 72 percent, according to their spent years and countless resources economic analysis. Corn and soybeans f promoting democracy in this hemi- will see increased sales to Colombia. ECONOMIC ISOLATIONISM sphere. The rise of Hugo Chavez in Ven- Fabricated metal products, processed The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ezuela and his cohorts throughout the foods, and chemicals will all see in- previous order of the House, the gen- region have demonstrated that creases. And, again, it’s expected that tleman from California (Mr. DREIER) is authoritarianism in our backyard is machinery, manufactured machinery, recognized for 5 minutes. still a reality. As he sends troops to like products made by John Deere and Mr. DREIER. Madam Speaker, as the the border he shares with our friend Navistar and Caterpillar, will increase two Democratic contenders duke it out and ally, Colombia, we are reminded 15 percent. in the Presidential campaign, there’s that tyranny in our hemisphere still Agriculture. The leaders of agri- one issue that they both seem very poses very grave threats. culture will tell you the U.S.-Colombia eager to be identified with. And it’s NAFTA, CAFTA, the Peru Free Trade Promotion Agreement is the very unfortunate, it’s the issue of eco- Trade Agreement, and the proposed best for agriculture in the history of nomic isolationism. This kind of policy agreements with Colombia and Panama all trade negotiations. And let’s not is as dangerous as it is inconsistent build upon the twin pillars of liberty: forget that 80 percent of U.S. exports with their own rhetoric. democratic governments and free mar- are currently taxed when they enter Both Democratic contenders like to kets. They enhance our economic Colombia, and they will become duty talk about the need to enhance our Na- strength with new opportunities and free immediately. That will allow us to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.043 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1436 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 become competitive with China and lombia has agreed to a permanent ILO breaking the back of the FARC, and in the and other competition. representative in Colombia. And per- process threatening to shine light on its We know Colombia, a democracy, as haps most telling, 14 Colombian labor murky relations with neighbouring govern- a reliable partner and ally. We know leaders have given their support to the ments. that Colombia is the oldest democracy When Mr. Uribe took office in 2002, the trade agreement. guerrillas were rampant. His predecessor had in Latin America. And we also recog- The bottom line is, ladies and gentle- just halted peace negotiations because the nize that President Uribe of Colombia men, this agreement is good for Illinois FARC had used a ‘‘demilitarised’’ zone cre- is our hemisphere’s most popular elect- workers, it’s good for Illinois manufac- ated to host the talks as a base for recruit- ed official with over 80 percent ap- turers, it’s good for Illinois farmers. ment and for kidnapping (many of the politi- proval ratings. Compare that to this Let’s bring it up for a vote. I ask my cians it has held hostage were seized during Congress, which has a 15 percent ap- colleagues to support this important the talks). The guerrillas had some 17,000 proval rating. Big difference. trade agreement. And I will also in- troops; they blocked main roads and bombarded small towns, kidnapping and kill- Now, there are those who oppose the clude for the RECORD a copy of an ing almost at will. To make matters worse, U.S.-Colombia Trade Promotion Agree- ‘‘Economist’’ article talking about the state’s inability to provide security had ment. They say that Colombia, President Hugo Chavez and the FARC spawned murderous right-wing paramilitary amongst all the good things it’s done, and their opposition to this agreement. groups. just hasn’t done enough regarding vio- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Mr. Uribe’s ‘‘democratic security’’ policy lence against labor leaders. Let’s re- Washington, DC. March 10, 2008. has achieved a dramatic change. By expand- member that Colombia has had 40 DEAR COLLEAGUE: Please read this inform- ing the security forces, he has driven the years of civil strife driven by left-wing ative recent article from The Economist FARC from populated areas, while per- gorillas trying to overthrow the demo- about FARC narcoterrorists in Colombia and suading most of the paramilitaries to de- mobilize. Officials reckon they have reduced cratically elected government of Co- troubling links with the Chavez administra- tion in . As noted below, ‘‘Mr. Cha- the FARC’s ranks to fewer than 11,000. But lombia. But today, 71 percent of Colom- vez, still with oil money but politically on the guerrillas withdrew to the vast tropical bians say they feel more secure under the defensive, may have thrown in his lot lowlands, to areas they have controlled for 40 President Uribe; 73 percent say Uribe with an outlaw army of drug-traffickers.’’ years. There they resisted a two-year offen- respects human rights. Those are Co- Now more than ever we must support the sive by 18,000 troops. The army could not get lombians, not Americans, saying that. pending Trade Promotion Agreement with near the FARC’s seven-man governing secre- Homicides are down 40 percent in Co- our neighbor and friend Colombia. tariat, of which Mr. Reyes (the NOM DE lombia; kidnappings are down 76 per- Sincerely, GUERRE of Luis Edgar Devia) was a mem- cent. The murder rate today in JERRY WELLER, ber. Member of Congress. Medellin, once the poster child of vio- SEEKING THE SECRETARIAT lence in Colombia, one of the most dan- (From The Economist, Mar. 6, 2008) Thwarted, the security forces refined their strategy. They put more effort into seeking gerous cities on the planet, today has a COLOMBIA IS MOVING CLOSER TO BREAKING lower murder rate than Washington, the FARC’s leaders using information from THE FARC—UNLESS VENEZUELA STOPS IT guerrilla deserters and infiltrators, and from DC, or Baltimore. On few, if any, other occasions has a head sophisticated bugging equipment provided by But let’s look at the facts on labor of state issued detailed orders for military the United States. Over the past year, this violence. President Uribe has made mobilization as jauntily as if he were order- has started to pay off. Two FARC regional major changes, beginning with reform- ing pizza, and on live television. That is commanders have been killed and one cap- ing the judiciary. He has had hired 418 what Hugo Chavez, Venezuela’s president, tured. In January and February alone, the new prosecutors, 545 new investigators. did on March 2nd, after Colombian forces army claims to have killed 247 guerrillas and In fact, in the Prosecutor General’s Of- bombed a camp just inside Ecuador, killing captured 226, with another 360 deserting. Raul Reyes, a senior commander of the Rev- This pressure has pushed FARC units to the fice, responsible for targeting those olutionary Armed Forces of Colombia who are responsible for the violence in borders with Ecuador, Venezuela and Pan- (FARC) guerrillas. ama. Colombia, they’ve added over 2,000 new ‘‘Minister of defence!’’ bellowed Mr. Cha- Last month the government received a tip- posts. vez, on ‘‘ALo PRESIDENTE’’ (‘‘Hello Presi- off that Mr. Reyes was in a camp less than Funding has gone up 75 percent in the dent’’), his weekly radio and television pro- two kilometers (1.25 miles) inside Ecuador. last few years alone under President gramme. ‘‘Send me ten battalions to the bor- Mr. Uribe authorized a bombing raid by Bra- Uribe. And quoting Carlos Rodriguez, der, including tanks.’’ He also ordered the zilian-made Super Tucano aircraft, which president of the United Workers Con- forward deployment of his new Russian killed at least 21 guerrillas. Colombian fighter-bombers, threatening that if Colom- troops then crossed the border to recover Mr. federation, a labor leader in Colombia: bia’s president, Alvaro Uribe, tried a similar ‘‘Never in the history of Colombia have Reyes’s corpse—and his laptop computers. raid on Venezuelan soil he would ‘‘send over (They left three wounded women guerrillas we achieved something so important.’’ the Sukhois’’. The next day he broke diplo- unattended.) Again, that’s a Colombian labor leader. matic ties with Colombia. Most Colombians were jubilant that the President Uribe and Colombia, under Venezuelan troops and tanks duly moved government had struck at the very top of the the government initiatives, have to the more populated points of the long bor- FARC at last. Mr. Reyes handled the guer- worked to protect labor leaders, giving der between the two countries. Customs offi- rillas’ relations with the outside world; he them special protections. Last year, cials halted Colombian trucks at the busiest was one of three deputies to Manuel they spent over $38 million for body crossing point, between Cucuta and San Cris- Marulanda, the FARC’s elderly leader. For tobal. the first time the security forces have shown guard protection for labor union lead- What made this performance odd was that ers; 1,500 union members and activists that they are capable of infiltrating and de- it was Ecuador, not Venezuela, whose sov- feating the guerrillas tough systematic received special protection, the second ereignty had been violated. True, Colombia strikes, said Roman Ortiz of Fundacion Ideas largest protected group in Colombia, has often accused Venezuela of harbouring para la Paz, a Bogota think-tank. and it’s been successful. For labor ac- guerrilla leaders and tolerating camps near Mr. Uribe doubtless thought that Mr. tivists under this program, none have the border similar to the one bombed in Ec- Correa could be mollified over the cross-bor- lost their lives. And I would note that uador. But did Venezuela’s president have a der raid. But spurred on by Mr. Chavez, Ec- guilty conscience? uador’s president sent 3,200 troops to the bor- the murder rate today for labor union- ‘‘Maybe he knew what was coming,’’ wrote ists is lower than the national murder der and cut diplomatic ties. He demanded an Teodoro Petkoff, a guerrilla leader in the emergency meeting of the Organization of rate for everyone else. 1960s who now edits an opposition newspaper So progress has been made. American States (OAS) to condemn Colom- in Caracas. Mr. Chavez’s apparent over-reac- bia, and set off on a tour of regional capitals And I would note that crimes cat- tion was a pre-emptive attempt to ‘‘throw a seeking support. egorized as anti-union violence often veil over the revelations he suspected might THE LAPTOP LODE are not union related, but regular come from Raul Reyes’ computer,’’ sug- crime that everyone in Colombia has gested Mr Petkoff. Almost as important as the killing of Mr. With Ecuador’s president, Rafael Correa, Reyes may be the capture of his laptops. contended with, many are the responsi- following Mr. Chavez’s lead, this week’s Apart from inside information on the FARC, bility of the leftist FARC. events sent Latin America’s diplomats scur- according to Colombian offIcials, they con- I would note that the International rying to prevent war enveloping the tain documents which—if true—are embar- Labor Organization has removed Co- neighbourhood. But they also laid bare that rassing to Mr. Correa but highly damaging lombia from its labor watch list. Co- Colombia’s government is coming close to to Mr. Chavez. As the FARC’s top negotiator,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.045 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1437 Mr. Reyes appears to have met representa- lasting interruption of trade would hurt both Black Caucus. And we’re going to be tives of many governments. According to one countries. Reputable pollsters say that Mr. talking about black history and wom- e-mail, he met Gustavo Larrea, Mr. Correa’s Cha´ vez’s popularity has fallen well below 50 en’s history, a combination of last security minister last month. Mr. Larrea is percent. Visible faction fights have broken month and this month’s themes. alleged to have proposed a formal meeting in out in his newly formed Unified Socialist Quito to discuss securing the border and ne- Party of Venezuela. I want to begin by saying that we gotiating the release of some of the FARC’s Picking a fight with Colombia and sup- will have an opportunity to discuss the 700-odd hostages. Mr. Larrea said that Co- porting the FARC are unlikely to win him state of black women in America and lombian offIcials knew of his meeting, which friends. One poll, by Hinterlaces, showed 89 pay tribute to African American was purely to talk about the hostages. percent opposed to a war and 87 percent op- Ecuadorean officials having swapped com- posed to the FARC. So the reason for his women in our communities. We felt it plaints with their Colombian counterparts military mobilization may be to deter Co- befitting, as we recently celebrated about their mutual inability to prevent the lombia from moving against the FARC Black History Month in February and FARC from crossing the border. Ecuador camps in Venezuela where some Colombian currently are in the midst of Women’s claims to spend $160m a year containing the officials believe that Mr. Marulanda is based. History Month. spillover. It is also angry about Colombia A more worrying, though improbable, hy- spraying coca fields on the border with weed- pothesis is that Mr. Cha´ vez, a former army Tonight we will begin by high- killer, which it says drifts south on to other officer, is throwing off all pretence at being lighting some of the findings from the crops. a civilian democrat and, fearing that he may recent study of ‘‘The State of Black Nevertheless, Ecuador has given some help not remain in power for long, wants to America,’’ released by the Urban to Colombia. Mr. Correa claimed that last launch an assault on what he sees as Amer- League, and discussing some of the year his forces dismantled 47 FARC camps ican imperialism and its regional stooge, Mr. inside Ecuador and on three occasions car- wonderful women from our own con- Uribe. gressional districts. ried out joint operations with Colombian Although George Bush gave public support troops. American surveillance aircraft still to Mr. Uribe, other governments in the re- I would like to begin now by yielding patrol over Colombia from an air base in Ec- gion, led by Brazil, tried to drive a wedge be- time to my colleague and good friend uador, although Mr. Correa has promised not tween Mr. Correa and Mr. Cha´ vez. There from the great State of California, to renew the lease for this when it expires in were signs that this might work. On March DIANE WATSON. 2009. 5th Ecuador agreed to an OAS resolution By contrast, Mr. Chavez has recently been criticizing, but not formally condemning, Ms. WATSON. Madam Speaker and unambiguous in his support for the FARC. Colombia. The OAS also agreed to inves- my honorable colleague, STEPHANIE He fell out with Mr. Uribe last year over his tigate the bombing. Once the region’s dip- TUBBS JONES, thank you for this oppor- attempt to act as a mediator for the hos- lomats have patched things up between these tages. Since then he has cast aside his pre- tunity to salute our women over a pe- two countries, they face another, more in- riod of time. vious stance as an honest broker seeking a tractable problem: Mr. Cha´ vez, still with oil peaceful solution to Colombia’s internal con- money but politically on the defensive, may I would like now to introduce you to flict. When the FARC turned over two hos- have thrown in his lot with an outlaw army a woman by the name of Mayme Clay- tages to him in January, Mr. Chavez hailed of drug-traffickers. the guerrillas as a ‘‘true army’’ whose status ton. as belligerents should be recognised. No f Mayme Clayton, a renowned librar- other government in the region, not even The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a ian, worked her entire life to assemble Cuba’s, echoed this call. On ‘‘ALo previous order of the House, the gen- a priceless collection of historical arti- PRESIDENTE’’ Mr. Chavez held a minute’s tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is facts. The collection was assembled silence in honor of Mr. Reyes, whom he said recognized for 5 minutes. he had met three times over the years. He over a 40-year period by Mayme A. (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. declared that Colombia needed to be ‘‘liber- Clayton, 1923 to 2006, a career librarian His remarks will appear hereafter in ated’’ from its ‘‘subservience’’ to the United at the University of Southern Cali- States. the Extensions of Remarks.) fornia in my district, and University of Another document allegedly on Mr. f California, Los Angeles, my alma Reyes’s computer showed that Mr. Chavez The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a mater. And Dr. Clayton’s singular com- paid (or planned to pay) the FARC $300m. An previous order of the House, the gen- (unrelated) e-mail to Mr. Reyes suggested mitment to preserve African American that the FARC were trying to obtain ura- tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is culture and history was inspired by her nium for a ‘‘dirty bomb’’. All this prompted recognized for 5 minutes. desire to ensure that children would some far-fetched exchanges. Mr. Uribe said (Mr. BURTON of Indiana addressed know the richness and diversity of Af- that he would denounce Mr. Chavez for ‘‘fi- the House. His remarks will appear rican American contributions to the nancing genocide’’; in return, Venezuela ac- hereafter in the Extensions of Re- world. cused Colombia’s police chief, who revealed marks.) the contents of Mr. Reyes’s laptop, of being The Mayme A. Clayton Collection of a ‘‘drug trafficker’’. f African American History and Culture ‘‘This is * * * a microphone war,’’ said CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS is comprised of seven main compo- General Raul Salazar, a former defense min- MESSAGE HOUR nents. They are as follows: rare and ister. Like many other Venezuelans, he out-of-print books, manuscripts, docu- doubts that it will become a real one. That The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under is not least because many army officers do the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- ments, films, music, photographs, and not want war with Colombia and find Mr. uary 18, 2007, the gentlewoman from memorabilia. The collection is a re- Chavez’s actions an ‘‘embarrassment’’, said Ohio (Mrs. JONES) is recognized for 60 markable cultural treasure, with a vast another former defense minister, General minutes as the designee of the major- ability to educate and to delight. It is Raul Baduel, who is now a prominent oppo- ity leader. our hope that this particular collection nent of the president. will be explored on the Web site to So what is Mr. Chavez’s game? One pos- GENERAL LEAVE learn more about the collection and sible answer is his obsessive search for an ex- Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Madam Speak- why Dr. Mayme Clayton assembled it, ternal enemy to shore up his waning popu- er, I ask unanimous consent that Mem- and the goals of the Western States larity at home. In December, his political bers would have 5 legislative days in blueprint for a socialist Venezuela, with in- Black Research and Educational Cen- which to revise and extend their re- definite presidential re-election, was de- ter. feated in a referendum. This came only a marks. year after he won a second six-year term The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there It’s a research center, and it’s sched- with 63 percent of the vote, and was the first objection to the request of the gentle- uled to receive a Federal grant to re- time he had lost a national vote. woman from Ohio? furbish its facilities that are located in In November Venezuelans are due to vote There was no objection my district, Culver City, California. for mayors and state governors. They are in- Mrs. JONES of Ohio. Madam Speak- The center will be known as the creasingly discontented about crime, an in- er, it’s befitting that you are in the Mayme Clayton Library, and it has flation rate that has surged to 25 percent and shortages of basic goods, including food and Speaker’s chair today as we discuss housed the largest collection of rare cooking gas. Because of Mr. Cha´ vez’s mis- this very important hour. books, films, recordings, and other doc- management of agriculture, Venezuela im- I have the pleasure to manage this uments on black Americans outside of ports much of its food from Colombia. Any hour on behalf of the Congressional the Schomburg Library.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR7.030 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1438 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 Ms. Clayton’s historic efforts have first black woman in the United States mothers as well. Further, one in four not been in vain, but can rightfully to be elected a city council member married working women earn more serve as historical and intellectual and the first to serve as an assistant than their husbands. However, many nourishment for this generation as well county prosecutor in Cuyahoga Coun- African American women are con- as future generations of Americans. ty. Because of her commitment to her centrated in low-paying service jobs or b 2000 community, Judge Capers was ap- staff positions. African American pointed by then Governor James women are 6 percent of the workforce When she learned that there was a lo- Rhodes to serve as a municipal court but 14 percent of workers earning be- cation for her rare collection, which judge, a position she was elected to tween $15,000 and $30,000 per year and she kept in her garage, and I remember once her appointment expired. are less than 1 percent of workers earn- going over as a student at UCLA and A member of my great sorority, ing over $100,000 per year. Not only do going through her works for a paper Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., African American women earn less, the that I had to do, I knew that she would Judge Capers has accumulated numer- growth in their earnings has lagged be- outgrow that space and would have to ous awards including the Frances hind that of white women, 19 percent find a place that could rightfully house Payne Bolton Award presented by the and 29 percent respectively. At the such a precious collection. But we Western Reserve Republican Club and upper end of the earnings distribution, found a place for her. It was the old has been inducted into the Ohio Wom- disparities in the labor market impact courthouse in Culver City. As you en’s Hall of Fame. approximately 1 percent of African know, you cannot sell a courthouse; so The interesting thing about Judge we’re on loan. They lent it to us for a American women in corporate officer Capers’ life is the fact that she was positions whose earnings are on aver- period of time, and we’re going to see born on the very day that Delta Sigma that Federal grants go to that library age $229,000 compared to $250,000 for Theta was founded and in the very white women.’’ to preserve this collection. same year. So we always call her our And I am so pleased to put that name Taking the conversation even deeper representative of Delta Sigma Theta. into your psyche because she has skill- is Dr. Julianne Malveaux, who in her Widely recognized for her gorgeous fully, artfully, and scholarly recorded essay, ‘‘Shouldering the Third Burden: hats, Judge Capers continues to be an our history, as written by slaves them- The status of African American advocate for all people in the commu- selves and written by free men. Women,’’ she states: nity. She still practices law at the age Mayme Clayton, a true African ‘‘The labor market presents the most of 95. I can honestly say there would be American heroine. striking example of the third burden. Thank you, Stephanie Tubbs Jones, no Stephanie Tubbs Jones were it not Black men and women both experience for giving me this time to talk about for Judge Jean Murrell Capers. So to- higher unemployment rates than the Mayme Clayton. night I’m pleased to recognize her for general population. However, the un- Mrs. JONES of Ohio. I would like to her life of service and for all that she employment and underemployment of thank my colleague for always being does on behalf of candidates through- black men shifts a disproportionate with me and supporting me and the out the State of Ohio and throughout economic responsibility onto the shoul- Congressional Black Caucus on issues the United States of America. Tonight ders of African American women, who that we present. she’s still actively involved in the pres- then must support households and chil- Madam Speaker, I would like to idential elections. Though we’re not on dren without sufficient contribution begin this evening by paying tribute to the same side, I still love her dearly. from their spouses, partners, or fa- one of my she-roes and a pillar of the Let me go on to talk now about the thers. The failure of public policy to 11th Congressional District of Ohio and Urban League’s State of Black America create jobs and access to employment the Cleveland community, Judge Jean Study. Urban League president and in the wake of urban Murrell Capers. CEO Marc Morial states: ‘‘By uplifting deindustrialization puts African Amer- At 95 years of age, Judge Jean black women, especially those strug- ican men at a particular disadvantage Murrell Capers is still ticking and gling hardest to keep their families to- and thereby places the burden of fam- kicking. Known for her feistiness and gether and their dreams on track, we ily survival on African American zest for life, Judge Capers has been a lift up every American community.’’ women.’’ trailblazer for many black women in- I want to applaud the Urban League Another article about black women cluding myself in the law and politics. for having the vision to highlight the and the foreclosure crisis is written by A native of Kentucky, Judge Capers issues of black women in this country Andrea Harris, the president of the moved to Cleveland with her family 88 in this year’s report. Oftentimes our North Carolina Institute for Minority years ago. She still resides in the fam- issues are overlooked and/or Economic Development, and she had ily house located in the heart of Cleve- marginalized. I would like to share this to say about the impact of the land. Judge Capers credits her parents with you a few excerpts from some of foreclosure crisis and its effect on Afri- with her success and longevity to the the essays featured in this year’s re- can American women: teachings instilled in her by her par- port. This year’s essayists do a fan- ‘‘Nearly two-thirds of the wealth pos- ents: ‘‘My parents provided my four tastic job of highlighting the many sessed by African American families is siblings and me with what we needed, struggles of black women in America. in the form of home equity. Without not what we wanted. The two things Black women and the workplace: In homeownership most of these house- that impact on the individual are he- her essay ‘‘African American Women holds own very little and have few op- redity and environment. The most im- and Work: Still a Tale of Two Cities,’’ portunities to build economic security. portant thing for you is to learn.’’ Alexis Herman has this to say regard- Half of all African American house- In 1932 Judge Capers began teaching ing the inequality women face in the holds with children are headed by in the Cleveland Public Schools. She workplace: women; therefore, homeownership is an went on to receive her law degree from ‘‘Over the last 60 years, the labor important economic advantage for Case Western Reserve University, force participation of women has more these families. which she calls the ‘‘Harvard of the than doubled, which means nearly one ‘‘The 1977 Community Reinvestment Midwest.’’ out of every two workers is a woman. Act was enacted to abolish redlining, Raised as a devout Presbyterian, However, this increase in labor force but it created a market for predatory Judge Capers says that the Bible and participation was driven largely by lending. A recent report by the Con- the Constitution are the two books she non-African American women deciding sumer Federation of America notes lives by. Through the teachings of the to work outside their homes. African that subprime loans have gone dis- Bible and her Christian upbringing, she American women have a long history proportionately to women and that Af- learned the importance of serving the of working outside of their homes and rican American and Latina women community. That belief led her into have the highest labor force participa- have the highest rates of subprime politics. tion rate among women, 63.4 percent. lending when compared to all other Judge Capers began her profession in Not only are more women working, but Americans, especially white men who law and politics in 1945. She was the more of these working women are receive the lowest share of subprime

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.048 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1439 loans. Moreover, the disparity in- dable health challenge. African Amer- We recalled in our discussion this creases as income increases. In fact, ican women must devote more time to great speech that she gave that was upper-income African American women care for their own health needs because called ‘‘Ain’t I a Woman?’’ and she are more than five times more likely health education, awareness, and talked about that she had worked and to receive a subprime mortgage than screening are essential in preventing slaved in cotton fields, that she was white men. Since subprime borrowers and controlling chronic diseases in able to till the land just like a man, typically refinance from one subprime women.’’ that she was able to cut down trees loan to another, this translates into All of these points that have been like a man and she said, But ain’t I a projected foreclosures for more than made in this wonderful publication by woman? And she went on to talk about one-third of subprime borrowers. the Urban League point to issues that the fact that women across this coun- ‘‘Considering that over half of all predominate in the African American try have worked very hard and very loans made to black borrowers in 2005 community, which particularly fall diligently but, in fact, they have not and 2006 were subprime and that Afri- upon African American women in our been given the rights or recognition can American women accounted for country. The Urban League should be that they should. And she ends this 48.8 percent of all African American applauded for focusing in on the state great speech by saying, if one woman subprime borrowers in 2006, it is easy of black women in America. And we can be determined to have turned this to imagine the devastation that is focus in again around education, world upside down, surely all the headed toward black women and their around health care, around job oppor- women in this room ought to be able to communities. A January, 2008, report tunities, around income within the turn it right side up again. And then issued by United for a Fair Economy workplace. she said, And the men ought to let says that the subprime mortgage crisis When we have been looking at issues them do it. will drain $213 billion in wealth from around women and the workplace, one So it is an exciting time as we focus black Americans, producing for African of the things that we have noticed per- in on Women’s History Month that we Americans the greatest wealth loss in sistently is that women still only make have a time to reflect on great women modern U.S. history.’’ about 70 cents of every dollar that men like Sojourner Truth and others who Let’s talk about black women’s make in the workplace, and we have to were leading the charge to make sure health for a moment. Dr. Doris continue to fight for our opportunity that women had the right to vote and Browne, president and CEO of Brown & to be paid equally in the workplace. It participate in the process. I am excited to discuss in that same Associates, Inc., had these observations becomes even a greater dilemma as we vein 22 women, and these 22 women about the impact of health disparities focus in on the foreclosure crisis, which were the founders of my sorority, Delta on African American women: has caused so many families to go ‘‘Particularly striking are disparities under. Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. in the occurrence of illness and death In the State of Ohio, 90,000 houses or These 22 women had been part of an- experienced by African Americans homes in Ohio are in the predatory other sorority and decided that they wanted to be more focused on political caused by higher rates of cardio- lending process. I am told that the and social issues and created Delta vascular disease, cancer, stroke, diabe- number across the country is some- Sigma Theta Sorority at Howard Uni- tes, AIDS, and a shorter life expect- where around 900,000 families or houses versity back in 1913, the same year ancy. For instance, heart disease is the in this country are in debt or in trou- that Judge Jean Murrell Capers was leading cause of death for women in ble as a result of the foreclosure crisis. born. Part of their first act was to par- the United States. However, the death It becomes even more important that ticipate in the suffragette march. rate for heart disease is 20 percent Members of Congress and my col- leagues begin to focus in on these I gave a speech the other day that higher for African American women was interesting in the conversation than white women. In addition, cancer issues and try to do what we can to as- sist those families in the process. that the people who put the march to- is the second leading cause of death One of the dilemmas that we really gether, they wanted to push all the Af- among women; yet the 5-year survival face as well is, though, that the pro- rican American women to the back of rate is 10 percent lower for African posals that have been placed upon the the march because they knew that American women compared to their table to try to fix the foreclosure proc- they would not be able to vote, but the white female counterparts. Also, 15 ess have not really focused on the peo- African American women started par- million black women in the United ple who are stuck in the foreclosure. ticipating in the march and they said, States are afflicted with diabetes, They are more focused on the banking to heck with this, we’re going to be at roughly double the number of U.S. and financial institutions than on the the front. And so they moved around white women who are diagnosed with people and the process. the march and moved to the front of the disease. the march on behalf of the people that b 2015 ‘‘With regard to HIV and AIDS, 61 are represented. So it was really percent of those under age 25 with a di- We need to push as Members of Con- women who were participating in the agnosis of HIV/AIDS are African Amer- gress to make sure that we pursue forefront that clearly had the chance ican, and African American women are other opportunities to assist people to give us or set the example for what diagnosed with AIDS at a rate nearly who are really in need of our support. we should be able to do. 24 times higher than white women. It is exciting as we go on and cele- I am just so pleased to have had this Black women are more likely to be in- brate Black History Month and Wom- opportunity on behalf of the Congres- fected by heterosexual means, sexual en’s History Month together that we sional Black Caucus to talk about contact with men who are HIV posi- think about all the great leaders and Women’s History Month, to talk about tive, compared to other racial and eth- great women who have come before us African American women who have nic groups. Possible explanations for in this country. done such a great job in the process. I these disparities are the complex inter- I had an opportunity about 2 weeks am confident that my colleagues would action of biological factors, environ- ago to be in Akron, Ohio, with a group have been here this evening but for ment, ethnicity, insurance, and certain of women. We were focusing on Wom- other commitments and that is why I health behaviors or life-style choices. en’s History Month and that great have sought to have the privilege to Equally important are the effects of so- woman, Sojourner Truth, an African have them be able to revise and extend cioeconomic factors such as education American woman who was a leader in their remarks so that they can add in- and income in creating health dispari- the suffragette movement, even though formation to this particular time. ties. For African American women, she recognized back then, even though It is always great to have a chance to poverty, race, and ethnicity play a sig- she fought on behalf of the suffragette participate in these Special Orders on nificant role in lower health quality movement, that she as an African behalf of the Congressional Black Cau- and health outcomes. American woman would not have the cus; our Chair, CAROLYN CHEEKS KIL- ‘‘Overcoming persistent health dis- opportunity to have the right to vote, PATRICK; our Vice Chair, BARBARA LEE, parities and promoting healthy behav- even if she won the suffragette move- who happens to be the Speaker in the iors for African Americans is a formi- ment. chair right now.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:31 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.050 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1440 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 Madam Speaker, with that I am will- that the government has to collect in ested in this chart, also produced by ing to yield back the balance of my order to run. Special interest groups the Tax Foundation. In 2004, the Tax time such that the next person who has run rampant through every single page Foundation ranked Federal individual a Special Order can come forward. I of that 67,000 pages. Anytime Congress income tax burden by congressional thank you for the time. wants to punish a special interest district. My district, the 26th District f group or reward another, Congress adds of Texas, falls here somewhere in the a new credit or a new law to the mam- middle, and it is highlighted in yellow SIMPLIFYING THE TAX CODE moth Tax Code. The result is a Federal so its easy for me to see, but it com- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under law fraught with opportunities for pares the ranking of Federal income the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- avoiding taxes and loopholes to be ex- tax burden as a percentage of the ad- uary 18, 2007, the gentleman from ploited at the expense of fellow Ameri- justed gross income versus the ranking Texas (Mr. BURGESS) is recognized for cans. Everyone is familiar with the of the average income tax liability per 60 minutes as the designee of the mi- problems inherent in our convoluted return. In other words, with identical nority leader. Tax Code, and criticizing the American incomes, we have some States with a Mr. BURGESS. And I thank the Tax Code is as American as apple pie much higher burden and some States Speaker. and , and for good reason. with a much lower burden. Madam Speaker, it has been said over Let me share just a few interesting Now that is an average across the and over again that nothing in this life facts on why we need fundamental tax population, so clearly there will be is certain except death and taxes. I was reform. Each year, Americans spend 6.5 some differences, but we see New York a practicing physician for over 25 years billion hours preparing their tax forms, represented in both the upper and the back in Texas and I’ve got to tell you, and businesses spend 800 million hours lower categories. We see California sometimes death seems a little less complying with the Tax Code. The cost likewise represented in both the upper complicated than our Tax Code. The of compliance for Federal taxpayers and the lower categories. So it’s not in- complexity of the Tax Code has done filling out returns and related chores conceivable that the discrepancy nothing but grow since the Federal in- was $265 billion in 2005. The average should not be that large; but, neverthe- come tax was first introduced in this taxpayer pays over $1,800 per household less, because of the complexity of the body in 1913. in compliance costs. In other words, Tax Code, that’s one of the things When it was first created, the Tax that taxpayer works a little over a we’re left with. Code was 400 pages. This year, it is week just to pay for the cost of pre- 435 Members of Congress and here is 67,506 pages, nearly a 17,000 percent in- paring his or her taxes for that year. the data from the top seven compared crease, pretty typical of government A study was done back in 1998 when to the bottom seven. You can defi- math. Because I’m a visual person, I the forms in 1998 were less complicated nitely see varying tax liabilities would like to show you what the statis- than they are 10 years later, and it sur- throughout the country. Again, my dis- tics look like. veyed 46 tax experts. Each expert came trict ranked 139th in regards to the Here is a picture from the ‘‘CCH up with 46 different answers when de- Standard Federal Tax Reporter’’ illus- Federal income tax burden as a per- termining tax liability. Forty-six pre- centage of gross income, but ranked trating the exponential increase in the parers, each given the same set of data, Tax Code. What this demonstrates, only 127 as the average income tax li- 46 different figures to determine tax li- ability per return. Again, that’s more Madam Speaker, is way back here in ability. The tax calculations them- 1913, we had one little 400-page book of the Federal Government’s math for selves ranged some $34,000 to $68,000, al- you. that was the Federal Tax Code, and most a doubling of the original esti- And yet another aspect of complying then we fast forward to 2007 and 2008 mated amount. and you see the number of pages now The Tax Foundation prepared the fol- with our Tax Code. Time is precious. that fill the bookshelf, making the lowing information that actually I We often don’t have enough of it for complexity of the code something that think will be of interest to this body: personal things, those mundane things the average person, quite honestly just In the year 2007, a person spent 79 like earning a living, raising your fam- does not understand. days working to pay for their Federal ily, spending time with your friends, Madam Speaker, remember that one taxes and 41 days on State and local and then there’s the dollars-and-cents of the fundamental tenets of the Amer- taxes for a grand total of 120 days. side of the equation where, in fact, ican legal system, including the tax That’s more than health care, more time is money and valuable resources system, is that ignorance of the law is than housing, more than transpor- are misspent navigating tax law in- no excuse. Therefore, in theory, every tation. And, honestly, you can see an stead of spent growing the economy single American who is merely trying immediate return on those categories. and creating jobs. Taken together, this to comply with the Tax Code and file It’s a little bit more difficult to see the is a strong prescription for real change their taxes by April 15 is supposed to be tangible return on Federal tax dollars, in our Tax Code. familiar with all of the 67,000 some odd albeit those are the moneys that are We know what works when it comes pages that are contained within the required to have the Federal Govern- to changing the Tax Code because we Tax Code which comprise the tax rules. ment run. But when you look at the got a glimpse of it when during Ronald Now, I don’t know if my tax preparer bite that taxes take out of the average Reagan’s administration he cut the back home knows all of the 67,506 pages income compared with all of the other Tax Code in half in 1986. As a result of and you have to wonder about other expenditures, it truly is significant. that reform, the economy grew, reve- people in other congressional districts. We all complain about paying our nues increased and jobs were created. I What about the small business owner? taxes. The fact is if the system was fair can’t think of a better prescription for What about the single mom who is just and simple, it would be a lot easier to our slowing economy today than repli- struggling to get by? How are they ever take. Americans don’t mind paying for cating the reform of the Tax Code on going to know all of the regulations roads. They pay for a strong defense. an even greater scale. contained within 67,506 pages of the They pay for health care for your So what should we do? The prescrip- U.S. Tax Code? grandmother. It’s the fact that one tion is fairly simple. Flatten the tax, The complexity of the Tax Code is a family makes exactly the same amount broaden the base and shift the burden result of countless deductions and ex- as the family next door, but they’re away from families and small busi- emptions aimed at steering a social forced to pay a higher share of the tax nesses. Simplify the Tax Code and agenda, quite honestly, when it’s sup- burden. The Declaration of Independ- make it easier for individuals and busi- posed to be a Tax Code. That’s one of ence says all men are created equal, nesses to file their taxes and pay their the fundamental problems with our tax and that should apply to the tax bur- fair share. Even the National Taxpayer system, is that we try to enforce social den as well. Advocate, Nina Olsen, stated simplify policy through the Tax Code rather Now, let me just show you a break- the Tax Code as one of her rec- than seeing the Tax Code simply as a down by congressional district. Most ommendations in the 2007 Annual Re- vehicle for collecting those revenues Members of Congress should be inter- port to Congress:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.052 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1441 ‘‘The complexity of the code in- Now we have got several Members of almost identical income reported. And creases the likelihood that honest tax- Congress who are actually working on yet when you calculated what I paid as payers will make inadvertent mis- the problem. Certainly it is something a percentage of income, it was in ex- takes, creates opportunities for tax- that I remain focused on. Congressman cess of 30 percent. When you calculated payers to avoid paying their fair share DAVID DREIER from California, the what the other individual paid, it was of taxes, and makes it difficult for the ranking member on the Rules Com- around 20 percent. So why the discrep- Internal Revenue Service to administer mittee, and PAUL RYAN of Wisconsin, ancy? With the same amount of earned the tax system. Simplifying the tax the ranking member on the Budget income, why should there be such a law could improve the audit process Committee, are all working to estab- vast difference in the taxes owed and and allow less taxpayer burden.’’ lish the single tax rate structure for the taxes paid? That is really what got b 2030 the United States. Members are work- me to thinking about this subject, ing on it in the other body as well. many, many years ago. Pretty simple stuff. Pretty straight- Each of us have our own ideas. The leg- We all remember when the Tax Code forward. If the National Taxpayer Ad- islation proposed is a little bit dif- was changed in 1993. It was changed vocate thinks it is best for our con- ferent, but it all has at the center of it retroactively so that we got both the stituents if we simplify the system, it the concept that you should be able to rich and the dead involved in paying would make sense that Members of file your taxes on a single form at a additional taxes. But it really got me Congress on both sides of the aisle much flatter rate that will be fairer focused. Then in 1995 when Congress- would agree with this sentiment and across-the-board, and, in fact, evidence man Armey published his book on the work toward this goal. Now, this next data I need to credit has shown that it will actually in- flat tax, I read it, I became a believer, to some polling done by American So- crease revenue. and have continued to study the issue The bill that I introduced actually lutions. They conducted a nationwide and have continued to talk about the two Congresses ago, and I have contin- poll on six different topics, with one issue. And this is the time of year to ued to introduce it every year, H.R. being taxes and jobs. This poll crossed have these types of talks, because I do 1040, it makes it easy to remember the gender, ethnicity, economic and party think it is important, regardless of number, H.R. 1040 allows for a person lines, and they discovered the following which party is in power, that we take to opt in to a flat tax. They can’t go opinions in America. Under taxes and seriously the will of the American peo- jobs, 69 percent think the Federal in- back and forth from the old IRS code ple. Eight-two percent, 82 percent, come tax system is unfair. Seventy and the flat tax, but if they elect to go want to be able to fill out a single page percent favor tax incentives for compa- into the flat tax, they may do so. form and be done with their taxes. If quite honestly they have con- nies who keep their headquarters in Just by way of comparison, according structed their family or business fi- the United States of America. What a to the Wall Street Journal, citing a nances such that they have been trying great concept. Eight-two percent think blog off the National Taxpayers Union to utilize the code to maximize their the option of a single rate system website, there are about 1.2 million or effectiveness, no one is going to require would give taxpayers the convenience more professional tax preparers during of filing their taxes with just a single them to go into the flat tax. They may tax season, which equals roughly the sheet of paper. Pretty powerful stuff. stay under the old IRS code. But for a population of Hawaii. There are 836,000 Eight-two percent want to be able to lot of people like myself, regardless of doctors in the United States. As a phy- file on a single sheet of paper. whether I would come up better or sician, I think that there is something Madam Speaker, it sounds to me as if worse under the flat tax, just to give a little askew with this number, that America has spoken fairly clearly on up that shoe box full of receipts every we require half again as many tax pre- this subject, and the evidence is that year, to give up that quality time parers in the country as we do physi- we do need real change in our tax sys- spent with my accountant every year, cians. Healers shouldn’t be out- tem. The encouraging news is that we to give up that $1,800 or $2,500 that I numbered by tax preparers. The gov- have a practical and effective blueprint spend every year on tax preparation, ernment math stuff is starting to scare for making this real change across-the- and I promise you, mine are not that me, and really should start to scare a board. The blueprint is called the flat complicated, I would gladly give that lot of Americans. tax. up to be able to simply file my taxes on Also, according to the Wall Street In 1981, Robert Hall and Alvin a single page form, or, better yet, popu- Journal, more than half of the indi- Rabushka proposed a new and radically late a field on a computer screen on the vidual taxpayers now use a paid pre- simple structure that would transform Internet, click a mouse, send it in, and parer for their income tax return. I do the Internal Revenue System and our be done with it for the year. myself. Mine is not that complicated, economy by creating a single rate of Now, we all may not agree on just a but I don’t dare go into the process taxation for all Americans. Today, sev- single rate. I have mentioned some without a professional guiding me, lest eral States have implemented a single other individuals that have other bills, someone at some point say, hey, you rate tax structure for their State in- and they do have different approaches. made a mistake. I want a professional come taxes and from Utah to Massa- We may not all agree on whether it with me if I had to go in to justify chusetts, citizens are seeing the ben- should be a single rate or two rates, as what those numbers read on the form. efit. it was back when Ronald Reagan sim- We actually anticipate the number of In Colorado, a single rate generated plified the Tax Code. We may prefer a people using a paid preparer to increase so much income, so much revenue, that tax method that does allow for deduc- this year. In 1960, less than a fifth of lawmakers actually reduced the rate 10 tions for mortgages or charitable con- taxpayers used preparers. More than years after its implementation. In the tributions. But regardless, regardless, half now. Less than a fifth, less than 20 State of Indiana, the economy boomed each of them embodies the funda- percent, back in 1960. In 2005, one of the after a single rate went into effect in mental principle that each American most famous tax preparation compa- 2003, and in that time corporate income should bear the burden of taxation nies garnered $2.4 billion in revenue tax receipts have risen 250 percent. equally and at the lowest rate possible; from the United States in tax prepara- In 1981, a simple concept put forth by we think everyone should be able to do tion, up from $841 million 10 years be- Robert Hall and Alvin Rabushka, revis- their own taxes without the help of a fore in 1996. Pretty astounding. Pretty ited in 1995 by my predecessor in this professional and should be confident astounding figures when you stop and body, former majority leader Dick that people who earn the same income think about it. Armey, and, most recently, within the pay the same taxes. Now, I respect and I fully appreciate last couple of years, a book published Madam Speaker, just as an aside, I everything that my tax preparer does by Steven Forbes on the flat tax revo- remember back in the year 1993, I was for me, what my accountant does for lution. All of those authors, all of just a regular guy working in a medical me, what tax preparation companies those authors calling for the same type practice back home in Texas. It just so do, and I think it is a shame that Con- of reform in our Tax Code, to allow it happened that that year, the President gress has created a system that is so to be flatter, fairer and simpler. of the United States and myself had an complicated that more than half of the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.052 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1442 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 public feel a need to pay someone, to I thought the prudent thing to do So it really comes down to an all- pay someone else, just to figure out would be to hold three months, three American principle of freedom, and it how much they owe for their tax liabil- months, of operating capital in some comes in a prescription. The decision ity. The system doesn’t have to be that easily convertible security, like a CD, to move to a single-rate system would complicated. something that was fairly liquid, earn be entirely up to the business, not up Now, bear with me, if you would, a little bit of interest along the way, to the government. This would be an through one last poster, and this really and have that money in case the dire optional program. If someone has con- sums it up. A faster, flatter, fairer tax wolf was ever at the door and I needed structed their domestic finances or structure, let me show you how it those funds to continue to operate my their business finances to maximize works. It is pretty simple. business. It seemed like a prudent their earnings under the current Fed- Here we go. You put in a little bit of think to do. eral Tax Code, stay in the code, that information, like your name; a little But here is the deal. You earn some would be your choice. bit of identification data, income, per- interest, but guess what? It is taxed at But if you are tired of the shoe box, sonal exemptions, married filing joint- regular income rates. So it is suddenly if you want to fill out a single-page re- ly, single head of household; number of eroded by, at that time almost a half, turn, single-page form, and then have dependents. You add up your deduc- now around a third. And then if you the rest of that time, that half day I tions. Taxable income is line 1 minus ever get to the point where, okay, I am am going to spend on Saturday and line 3. One subtraction equation on the going to bring that money back into that other half day I am going to spend form. And then calculate the amount the business and pay it out in salary, on a week, if you would rather have of tax owed on this particular form, well, guess what? If you have held it that day to spend with your family, calculate by multiplying line 4 by 0.19. for over a year in that money market take a personal day off, go fishing, The tax is already withheld. Your tax or CD, your business had to report that whatever, earn more money, whatever, refund you are owed or the taxes you and pay taxes on it at the end of that that’s yours. You don’t owe it to the are to pay. What did that take? Ac- first year, and then when you do dis- government any more. cording to the clock up there, a little pense it as earnings to the owners of A flat tax would be less costly. It less than 30 seconds. Thirty seconds, the business, guess what? It is taxed would save taxpayers $100 billion a and your income taxes are done. again. So it got taxed twice. year and would reduce cost of compli- Now, in all honesty, I haven’t started So for doing the prudent thing, the ance by over 90 percent. The resulting my taxes this year. Please don’t tell prudent thing, holding 3 months of cap- increase in personal savings, well, wait my accountant. But I will spend the ital in a relatively liquid account so a minute, didn’t we just pass a big better part of a Saturday afternoon, you can get to it if you need it, for stimulus package? That would have an probably this coming Saturday, going doing the prudent thing, you are pun- immediate effect on our American to all those places in the house where ished on the interest you earn. So that economy by putting that money back I have secreted away little receipts and is not a good deal. You have got to pay in the hands of productive people in things that I knew I would need when taxes on it from your business, and, oh, this country. it came time to prepare my taxes. I by the way, if you ever do pay it out to As I said earlier, recent polling by will gather all of this stuff together yourself in salary, you get taxed again. American Solutions shows that over 80 and put it in a form that is present- So you have been taxed three times on percent of Americans favor an op- able, take another half day and spend that money that you thought you were tional, single-page, one-page tax form that with my accountant. He will doing the right thing. You were put- with one rate. After all, is anybody spend several weeks churning it ting it away against perhaps a lean really going to complain if this one through whatever computer program month or two. Maybe those Medicare time, this one time Congress does that he uses. And then right before payments didn’t come through as fast something worthwhile and actually midnight on April 15th, I will get my as I would like, or, God forbid, the SGR makes something easier? After all, who tax form to sign, and I will send it in cut my payment again for Medicare re- could complain about making some- and I will either pay a little in taxes or imbursement, I would have a little thing easier, especially a process that I will get a little bit of refund. cash to fall back on. But, guess what. If comes with such a high cost? But look at this. Thirty seconds. you do that, if you do that, you are ac- One of the things we haven’t even Your name, a little bit of identification tually hurt. talked about, and you now hear talked data, a couple of numbers that are easy b 2045 about all the time, is the compliance to obtain, and taxes are already with- If we were to change the Tax Code, gap, the 200 to 300 to $350 billion that held, your tax liability or your tax re- again, with a single rate structure, no it’s estimated that is owed in taxes but fund. No expensive tax attorney bills. capital gains tax, no taxes on divi- it’s not paid in taxes because it’s sim- No more hours of stressful research dends, no taxes on savings, which is ex- ply too hard to go through all that you trying to figure out whether your mili- tremely important, and I personally have to go through to comply with the tary service or your marital status will would eliminate the Clinton tax on So- IRS code or you are worried about adversely affect your return. No more cial Security earnings, what would making a mistake and going to jail for headaches trying to determine where happen? Personal savings would in- misrepresenting yourself on your tax the estimated tax payments go. No crease. form. more Congress taking one special in- Would that be a bad thing? Does any- So that compliance gap, the tax gap terest group over the other trying to one in this body think personal savings as it is called, you will hear people talk create social good works through the would be a bad thing, particularly a bit on both sides of the aisle. They Tax Code. Instead, just a very simple given our current economic situation? want to utilize, well we are going to go and straightforward system. And re- Businesses might just actually expand out and do a better job of collecting member that number: 82 percent of and create jobs. Would that be a bad the taxes, so we will use that $350 bil- Americans want something simple like thing given our job creation numbers lion to offset an increase in the farm this for their tax preparation. this past month? We lost a bunch. We program or AMT patch, or, God forbid, Now, in my opinion a single tax rate didn’t create anything. we would fix the SGR formula for pa- structure would eliminate taxes on Without the heavy corporate income tients and doctors across the country. capital gains, eliminate taxes on divi- tax, which is currently the second But you always hear people talk about dends and taxes on savings. You know, highest in the industrialized world, that tax gap that they are going to col- we always hear that our savings rate in companies would have less incentive to lect that $300 billion and put it to some this country is really pretty low, and offshore their headquarters and off- other good work, but this gets rid of that in fact is one of the things that shore their earnings. If they had less the tax gap. It’s gone tomorrow. may be behind some of the financial incentive, and those earnings and head- You wouldn’t have to worry about crisis that we find ourself in now. quarters stayed in this country, people not complying with the code be- I will just tell you there was a time wouldn’t that ultimately be a good cause it would be so simple. The cost of when I was in business for myself that thing for the state of our economy? not complying would be high. The cost

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.054 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H1443 of complying would become much more within the House of Representatives an p.m.), under its previous order, the bearable. Office of Congressional Ethics, and for House adjourned until tomorrow, Tues- Well, guess what? This is a very po- other purposes, which was referred to day, March 11, 2008, at 10:30 a.m., for litical year. Everywhere you go, people the House Calendar and ordered to be morning-hour debate. are talking about change. printed. f I will tell you what, I haven’t heard f EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, the word ‘‘change’’ so much since I was ETC. an intern at the newborn nursery at LEAVE OF ABSENCE the Parkland Hospital back in the By unanimous consent, leave of ab- Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive 1970s. Everyone is talking about sence was granted to: communications were taken from the change. You turn on the television, Ms. KILPATRICK (at the request of Mr. Speaker’s table and referred as follows: people are talking about change. HOYER) for today and March 11, on ac- 5651. A letter from the Deputy Secretary, Let’s consider how that change could count of official business. Department of Defense, transmitting the De- improve one of the most complicated of Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi (at the partment’s report for the first quarter of fis- cal year 2008 as required by the Joint Impro- institutions, the Internal Revenue request of Mr. HOYER) for today and March 11 on account of official business vised Explosive Device Defeat Fund provi- Service. More importantly, let’s con- sion in Title VI of Division A of the Depart- sider how that change could deliver in the district. ment of Defense Appropriations Act of 2008, prosperity, deliver time back to Amer- Ms. WOOLSEY (at the request of Mr. Pub. L. 110-116; to the Committee on Armed ica’s families and to America’s tax- HOYER) for today and the balance of Services. payers. the week on account of medical leave. 5652. A letter from the Chief, Congressional You know what, when it gets right Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Florida Action Division, Office of Legislative Liai- down to it, that’s a stimulus, that’s a (at the request of Mr. BOEHNER) for son, Department of the Air Force, Depart- stimulus that every American could today on account of a family medical ment of Defense, transmitting notice of a performance decision on the public-private understand and every American could emergency. competition affecting Detachment 1, Train- be for. That’s a stimulus package that Mr. BUYER (at the request of Mr. ing Support Squadron, Luke Air Force Base, everyone on the floor of this House BOEHNER) for today on account of flight Arizona; to the Committee on Armed Serv- should consider and vote for. delays. ices. I have got a bill, H.R. 1040. Ranking Mr. YOUNG of Florida (at the request 5653. A letter from the Program Analyst, Member DREIER has a bill, Ranking of Mr. BOEHNER) for today on account Department of Transportation, transmitting Member PAUL RYAN has a bill. I think of illness in the family. the Department’s final rule — Federal Motor all of those are worth looking at. I Vehicle Safety Standards; Lamps, Reflective f Devices, and Associated Equipment [Docket would like to see those brought up in SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED No. NHTSA-2007-28322] (RIN: 2127-AJ75) re- the appropriate committee of Ways and ceived February 20, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Means, the Subcommittee on Taxation. By unanimous consent, permission to 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and Let’s have the debate; let’s have the ar- address the House, following the legis- Commerce. gument. Let’s do it out in the open. lative program and any special orders 5654. A letter from the Program Analyst, Let the American people hear our de- heretofore entered, was granted to: Department of Transportation, transmitting bate, and let them decide who is argu- (The following Members (at the re- the Department’s final rule — Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard; Final ing on their behalf and who is arguing quest of Mr. HALL of New York) to re- vise and extend their remarks and in- Listing of 2008 Light Duty Truck Lines Sub- on behalf of the special interests. I ject to the Requirements of This Standard think it would become quite clear after clude extraneous material:) and Exempted Vehicle Lines for Model Year just a few minutes of that debate. Mr. HALL of New York, for 5 minutes, 2008 [Docket No. NHTSA-2007-28497] (RIN: Again, here is an opportunity to give today. 2127-AJ97) received February 20, 2008, pursu- time and money back to the American Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee people. That is a stimulus package of Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. on Energy and Commerce. which this body, both sides of the aisle, (The following Members (at the re- 5655. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- quest of Mr. JONES of North Carolina) could be justifiably proud. sion, transmitting the Commission’s final f to revise and extend their remarks and rule — In the Matter of 2006 Quadrennial include extraneous material:) Regulatory Review — Review of the Commis- RECESS Mr. DREIER, for 5 minutes, today, sion’s Broadcast Ownership Rules and Other The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. March 11, 12 and 13. Rules Adopted Pursuant to Section 202 of the ALTMIRE). Pursuant to clause 12(a) of Mr. POE, for 5 minutes, March 14. Telecommunications Act of 1996 FCC 07-216 rule I, the Chair declares the House in Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, for 5 minutes, [MB Docket 06-121 etc.] received February 25, recess until approximately 9:07 p.m. March 13. 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Mr. WELLER of Illinois, for 5 minutes, Accordingly (at 8 o’clock and 55 min- 5656. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media utes p.m.), the House stood in recess today, March 11, 12, 13 and 14. Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- until approximately 9:07 p.m. Mr. JONES of North Carolina, for 5 sion, transmitting the Commission’s final minutes, March 14. f rule — In the Matter of Amendment of Sec- Mr. FLAKE, for 5 minutes, March 11. tion 73.202(b), Table of Allotments, FM b 2110 Mr. BURTON of Indiana, for 5 minutes, Broadcast Stations. (Peach Springs, Arizona) today, March 11, 12, 13 and 14. [MB Docket No. 07-164 RM-11386] received AFTER RECESS February 25, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. The recess having expired, the House f 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and was called to order by the Speaker pro SENATE ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Commerce. 5657. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media tempore (Mr. ALTMIRE) at 9 o’clock and The Speaker announced her signa- 10 minutes p.m. Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- ture to an enrolled bill of the Senate of sion, transmitting the Commission’s final f the following title: rule — In the Matter of The Commission’s REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- S.J. Res. 25. Providing for the appointment Cable Horizontal and Vertical Ownership Limits Implementation of Section 11 of the VIDING FOR ADOPTION OF of John W. McCarter as a citizen regent of the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian In- Cable Television Consumer Protection and HOUSE RESOLUTION 895, ESTAB- stitution. Competition Act of 1992 Implementation of LISHING AN OFFICE OF CON- Cable Act Reform Provisions of the Tele- f GRESSIONAL ETHICS communications Act of 1996 Review of the Ms. SUTTON, from the Committee on ADJOURNMENT Commission’s Regulations Governing Attri- bution of Broadcast and Cable/MDS Interests Rules, submitted a privileged report Ms. SUTTON. Mr. Speaker, I move Review of the Commission’s Regulations and (Rept. No. 110–547) on the resolution (H. that the House do now adjourn. Politics Affecting Investment in the Broad- Res. 1031) providing for the adoption of The motion was agreed to; accord- cast Industry Reexamination of the Commis- the resolution (H. Res. 895) establishing ingly (at 9 o’clock and 11 minutes sion’s Cross-Interest Policy [MM Docket No.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:38 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10MR7.056 H10MRPT1 smartinez on PRODPC61 with HOUSE H1444 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE March 10, 2008 92-264 CS Docket No. 98-82 CS Docket No. 96- DDTC 014-08); to the Committee on Foreign 936. Resolution honoring the 200th anniver- 85 MM Docket No. 94-150 MM Docket No. 92- Affairs. sary of the Gallatin Report on Roads and Ca- 51 MM to the Committee on Energy and 5667. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- nals, celebrating the national unity the Gal- Commerce. ment of the Treasury, transmitting as re- latin Report engendered, and recognizing the 5658. A letter from the Deputy Bureau quired by section 401(c) of the National vast contributions that national planning ef- Chief, Wireline Comp. Bur., Federal Commu- Emergencies Act, 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), and sec- forts have provided to the United States; nications Commission, transmitting the tion 204(c) of the International Emergency with amendments (Rept. 110–544). Referred to Commission’s final rule — In the Matters of Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C. 1703(c), and the House Calendar. Telephone Numbers Requirements for IP-En- pursuant to Executive Order 13313 of July 31, Mr. OBERSTAR: Committee on Transpor- abled Services Providers Local Numbers 2003, a six-month periodic report on the na- tation and Infrastructure. H.R. 5492. A bill to Portability Porting Interval and Validation tional emergency blocking property of per- authorize the Board of Regents of the Smith- Requirements IP-Enabled Services Tele- sons undermining democratic processes or sonian Institution to construct a greenhouse phone Number Portability CTIA Petitions institutions in Zimbabwe that was declared facility at its museum support facility in for Declaratory Ruling on Wireline-Wireless in Executive Order 13288 of March 6, 2003; to Suitland, Maryland, and for other purposes Porting Issues Final Regulatory Flexibility the Committee on Foreign Affairs. (Rept. 110–545). Referred to the Committee of Analysis Numbering Resource Optimization 5668. A letter from the Acting Secretary, the Whole House on the State of the Union. [WC Docket No. 07-243 WC Docket No. 07-244 Department of Veterans Affairs, transmit- Mr. BERMAN: Committee on Foreign Af- WC Docket No. 04-36 CC Docket No. 95-116 CC ting the Department’s Annual Performance fairs. H.R. 5501. A bill to authorize appropria- Docket No. 99-200] received February 25, 2008, and Accountability Report for FY 2007; to tions for fiscal years 2009 through 2013 to pro- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- the Committee on Oversight and Govern- vide assistance to foreign countries to com- mittee on Energy and Commerce. ment Reform. bat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, 5659. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media 5669. A letter from the Acting Assistant and for other purposes (Rept. 110–546 Pt. 1). Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks, De- Ordered to be printed. sion, transmitting the Commission’s final partment of the Interior, transmitting the Ms. SUTTON: Committee on Rules. House rule — In the Matter of Leased Commercial Department’s final rule — Endangered and Resolution 1031. Resolution providing for the Access [MB Docket No. 07-42] received Feb- Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation adoption of the resolution (H. Res. 895) estab- ruary 25, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. of Critical Habitat for the Guajon lishing within the House of Representatives 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and (Eleutherodactylus cooki) (RIN: 1018-AU46) an Office of Congressional Ethics, and for Commerce. received February 29, 2008, pursuant to 5 other purposes (Rept. 110–547). Referred to 5660. A letter from the General Counsel, U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Nat- the House Calendar. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ural Resources. 5670. A letter from the Deputy General DISCHARGE OF COMMITTEE transmitting the Commission’s final rule — Counsel, National Aeronautics and Space Ad- Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII, the Blanket Authorization Under FPA Section ministration, transmitting the Administra- Committee on Financial Services dis- 203 [Docket No. RM07-21-000; Order No. 708] tion’s final rule — CROSS-WAIVER OF LI- received February 25, 2008, pursuant to 5 charged from further consideration. ABILITY (RIN: 2700-AB51) received February U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on En- H.R. 5501 referred to the Committee of 28, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to ergy and Commerce. the Whole House on the State of the the Committee on Science and Technology. 5661. A letter from the General Counsel, 5671. A letter from the Publications and Union. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Regulations Unit, Internal Revenue Service, f transmitting the Commission’s final rule — transmitting the Service’s final rule — Cred- Cross-Subsidization Restrictions on Affiliate REPORTED BILLS SEQUENTIALLY it for New Qualified Alternative Motor Vehi- Transactions [Docket No. RM07-15-000; Order cles (Qualified Fuel Cell Motor Vehicles) REFERRED No. 707] received February 25, 2008, pursuant [Notice 2008-33] received February 29, 2008, Under clause 2 of rule XII, bills and to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Energy and Commerce. reports were delivered to the Clerk for mittee on Ways and Means. 5662. A letter from the Director, Office of printing, and bills referred as follows: 5672. A letter from the Chief, Publications Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory [Omitted from the Record of March 6, 2008] and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue Commission, transmitting the Commission’s Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- final rule — Delegated Authority to Order — Revenue Procedure: Purchase Price Safe sources. H.R. 2176. A bill to provide for and Use of Procedure for Access to Certain Sen- Harbors for Sections 143 and 25 (Rev. Proc. approve the settlement of certain land sitive Unclassified Information (RIN: 3150- 2008-17) received February 25, 2008, pursuant claims of the Bay Mills Indian Community, AI32) received February 28, 2008, pursuant to to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on with an amendment; referred to the Com- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ways and Means. mittee on Judiciary for a period ending not Energy and Commerce. 5673. A letter from the Program Manager, later than April 4, 2008, for consideration of 5663. A letter from the Assistant Secretary Department of Health and Human Services, such provisions of the bill and amendment as for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting the Department’s final rule — fall within the jurisdiction of that com- transmitting an annual report required by Medicare Program; Medicare Secondary mittee pursuant to clause 1(k) of rule X section 655 of the Foreign Assistance Act of Payer (MSP) Amendments [CMS-6272-F] (Rept. 110–541, Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. 1961, pursuant to Public Law 104-164, section (RIN: 0938-AN27) received February 25, 2008, Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- 655(a) (110 Stat. 1435); to the Committee on pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); jointly to sources. H.R. 4115. A bill to provide for and Foreign Affairs. the Committees on Energy and Commerce approve the settlement of certain land 5664. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- and Ways and Means. claims of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chip- ment of Commerce, transmitting consistent pewa Indians, with an amendment; referred with the resolution of advice and consent to f to the Committee on Judiciary for a period ratification of the Convention on the Prohi- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON ending not later than April 4, 2008, for con- bition of the Development, Production, PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS sideration of such provisions of the bill and Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons amendment as fall within the jurisdiction of and on Their Destruction, adopted by the Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of that committee pursuant to clause 1(k) of Senate of the United States on April 24, 1997, committees were delivered to the Clerk rule X (Rept. 110–542, Pt. 1). Ordered to be and Executive Order 13346 of July 8, 2004, cer- for printing and reference to the proper printed. tification for calendar year 2007; to the Com- calendar, as follows: f mittee on Foreign Affairs. [The following action occurred on March 7, 5665. A letter from the Assistant Secretary 2008] PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting the Department’s report on Mr. SPRATT: Committee on the Budget. Under clause 2 of rule XII, public ‘‘Overseas Surplus Property,’’ pursuant to House Concurrent Resolution 312. Resolution bills and resolutions were introduced Public Law 105-277, section 2215; to the Com- revising the congressional budget for the and severally referred, as follows: United States Government for fiscal year mittee on Foreign Affairs. By Mr. BUYER: 5666. A letter from the Assistant Secretary 2008, establishing the congressional budget H.R. 5561. A bill to amend the Economic for Legislative Affairs, Department of State, for the United States Government for fiscal Stimulus Act of 2008 to provide for a tem- transmitting pursuant to section 36(c) of the year 2009, and setting forth appropriate porary increase in the maximum loan guar- Arms Export Control Act, certification of a budgetary levels for fiscal years 2010 through anty amount for housing loans guaranteed proposed technical assistance agreement for 2013 (Rept. 110–543). Referred to the Com- by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; to the the export of technical data, defense serv- mittee of the Whole House on the State of Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. ices, and defense articles to the Governments the Union. By Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico: of , France, Germany, Luxembourg, [Filed on March 10, 2008] H.R. 5562. A bill to authorize the National Spain, , the United Kingdom, Canada, Mr. OBERSTAR: Committee on Transpor- Guard to provide support for the border con- South Africa, and Malaysia (Transmittal No. tation and Infrastructure. House Resolution trol activities of the United States Customs

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and Border Protection of the Department of By Mr. SALAZAR (for himself, Mr. H.R. 1554: Mr. PASTOR and Ms. HERSETH Homeland Security, and for other purposes; UDALL of Colorado, and Mr. CHAN- SANDLIN. to the Committee on Armed Services. DLER): H.R. 1621: Mr. DENT. By Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York (for H.R. 5574. A bill to prohibit the transport H.R. 1645: Mr. ROTHMAN. herself, Mr. GEORGE MILLER of Cali- of hydrolysate from the Pueblo Chemical H.R. 1653: Mr. INSLEE. fornia, Mr. PLATTS, Mr. SHAYS, Mr. Depot, Colorado, or the Blue Grass Army H.R. 1730: Mr. CONAWAY. HOLT, Ms. WOOLSEY, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. Depot, Kentucky, to an off-site location; to H.R. 1738: Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. JEFFERSON, Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. the Committee on Armed Services. H.R. 1774: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. COURTNEY, Mr. SESTAK, and Ms. By Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California H.R. 1897: Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. SHEA-PORTER): (for herself and Mr. EHLERS): H.R. 1927: Mr. ROHRABACHER. H.R. 5563. A bill to reauthorize and reform H. Con. Res. 313. Concurrent resolution au- H.R. 2016: Mr. BACA. the national service laws; to the Committee thorizing the use of the rotunda of the Cap- H.R. 2066: Mr. LOEBSACK. on Education and Labor. itol for a ceremony to honor the 5 years of H.R. 2131: Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. By Mr. SHADEGG (for himself, Mr. service and sacrifice of our troops and their H.R. 2189: Mr. WEXLER. MOORE of Kansas, Mr. POE, Mr. BACH- families in the war in Iraq and to remember H.R. 2332: Mr. WITTMAN of Virginia. US, and Mr. FOSSELLA): those who are serving our Nation in Afghani- H.R. 2514: Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of H.R. 5564. A bill to amend title 38, United stan and throughout the world; considered Florida and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. States Code, to exclude an individual who and agreed to. H.R. 2526: Mrs. MYRICK. ´ has been convicted of committing certain By Mr. KAGEN (for himself, Mr. OBEY, H.R. 2548: Ms. LINDA T. SANCHEZ of Cali- sex offenses from receiving certain burial-re- Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Ms. MOORE of fornia, Mr. FARR, and Ms. WOOLSEY. lated benefits and funeral honors which are Wisconsin, Mr. KIND, Mr. PETRI, Ms. H.R. 2588: Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Flor- otherwise available to certain veterans, BALDWIN, Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin, and ida. members of the Armed Forces, and related Mr. HINOJOSA): H.R. 2652: Mr. UPTON. individuals, and for other purposes; to the H. Res. 1032. A resolution recognizing H.R. 2702: Mrs. MYRICK and Mr. BISHOP of Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. former Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett New York. By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina: Favre on the occasion of his retirement from H.R. 2734: Mr. LUCAS. H.R. 5565. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- the National Football League, and honoring H.R. 2744: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia, Mr. LIN- enue Code of 1986 to provide a Federal in- him for his years of commitment to the city COLN DAVIS of Tennessee, Mr. THOMPSON of come tax credit for certain home purchases; of Green Bay and the State of Wisconsin, and Mississippi, Mr. MURTHA, and Mr. HOLDEN. to the Committee on Ways and Means. his extensive charitable activities in Wis- H.R. 2747: Mr. COSTA. H.R. 2792: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Ms. By Mrs. CAPITO (for herself, Mrs. consin and his home State of Mississippi; to SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. ELLISON. BIGGERT, and Mr. BACHUS): the Committee on Oversight and Govern- H.R. 2851: Mr. PLATTS, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of H.R. 5566. A bill to amend the Economic ment Reform. Texas, and Mr. CUMMINGS. Stimulus Act of 2008 to provide for a tem- By Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsylvania H.R. 2894: Mr. FILNER, Mr. CALVERT, Mr. porary increase in the maximum loan guar- (for himself, Mr. ALTMIRE, and Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. TIAHRT, Mr. anty amount for housing loans guaranteed DOYLE): SESTAK, Mr. MEEK of Florida, Mr. BACA, Mr. by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; to the H. Res. 1033. A resolution honoring Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. WU, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. Myron Cope for his 35 years of service to PALLONE, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. KANJORSKI, Mr. By Mr. FLAKE (for himself, Mr. southwest Pennsylvania and as the voice of MCGOVERN, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. BOEHNER, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, and the Pittsburgh Steelers; to the Committee KUCINICH, Mr. CROWLEY, Ms. BEAN, and Ms. Mr. HOEKSTRA): on Oversight and Government Reform. SCHWARTZ. H.R. 5567. A bill to rescind earmarks des- f H.R. 2964: Mr. GUTIERREZ, Ms. LEE, and Mr. ignated in the Intelligence Authorization FARR. Act for Fiscal Year 2008; to the Committee ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 2965: Mrs. BIGGERT. on Intelligence (Permanent Select). H.R. 3014: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. By Mr. GRAVES: Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 3132: Mr. ELLISON. H.R. 5568. A bill to amend the Illegal Immi- were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 3232: Mr. SIRES, Mrs. BONO Mack, Mr. gration Reform and Immigrant Responsi- tions as follows: CAPUANO, and Mr. BOREN. bility Act of 1996 to clarify requirements re- H.R. 63: Mr. LAMBORN. H.R. 3234: Mr. PRICE of Georgia, Mr. lating to the construction of a physical fence H.R. 87: Mrs. CAPITO. HERGER, Mr. GINGREY, Mr. BROWN of South along the southwest border, and for other H.R. 211: Mr. GRAVES. Carolina, Mrs. BLACKBURN, Mr. PENCE, Mr. purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Se- H.R. 333: Mr. GONZALEZ. PITTS, Mr. MARCHANT, Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. curity. H.R. 406: Ms. WATERS, Mr. CUELLAR, Mr. KINGSTON, Mr. BRADY of Texas, Mr. DAVID By Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California: KANJORSKI, Mr. ROSS, Mr. BARROW, Ms. BEAN, DAVIS of Tennessee, Ms. FOXX, Mr. WEST- H.R. 5569. A bill to extend for 5 years the Mr. BOREN, Mr. CARNEY, Mr. COOPER, Mr. MORELAND, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, and Mr. EB-5 regional center pilot program; to the CRAMER, Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Tennessee, KUHL of New York. Committee on the Judiciary. Ms. GIFFORDS, Mr. HILL, Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. H.R. 3282: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. SPACE. By Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California: MATHESON, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- H.R. 3309: Ms. LEE. H.R. 5570. A bill to amend the Immigration vania, Mr. SHULER, Mr. THOMPSON of Cali- H.R. 3326: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois and Mr. and Nationality Act to eliminate the sunset fornia, Mr. LYNCH, Mr. WELCH of Vermont, GUTIERREZ. in the special immigrant nonminister reli- and Mr. KLEIN of Florida. H.R. 3337: Mr. ELLISON. gious worker visa program; to the Com- H.R. 522: Mr. JEFFERSON. H.R. 3366: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas and mittee on the Judiciary. H.R. 623: Mr. STARK. Mr. CARNAHAN. By Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California: H.R. 715: Mr. VAN HOLLEN. H.R. 3438: Mrs. CAPPS and Mr. MEEKS of H.R. 5571. A bill to extend for 5 years the H.R. 818: Mr. JEFFERSON and Mr. PAYNE. New York. program relating to waiver of the foreign H.R. 914: Mr. KIRK. H.R. 3439: Mr. RAHALL, Mr. MCDERMOTT, country residence requirement with respect H.R. 992: Mr. ELLISON. and Mr. ABERCROMBIE. to international medical graduates; to the H.R. 1014: Mr. SMITH of Washington. H.R. 3514: Mr. COSTELLO, Mr. REYES, and Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 1043: Mr. ENGEL, Mr. NADLER, Mrs. Ms. BALDWIN. By Mr. MORAN of Virginia: GILLIBRAND, Mr. COSTELLO, and Mr. GON- H.R. 3533: Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. CUELLAR, Ms. H.R. 5572. A bill to stimulate the economy ZALEZ. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. HOEKSTRA, Mr. WALBERG, of the United States by providing assistance H.R. 1078: Mr. WITTMAN of Virginia. and Mr. YOUNG of Florida. to States for foreclosure mitigation coun- H.R. 1090: Mr. CULBERSON. H.R. 3618: Mr. GONZALEZ. seling activities and increased community H.R. 1178: Mr. PASTOR, Mr. PORTER, and Mr. H.R. 3637: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. development block grant assistance; to the PLATTS. H.R. 3646: Ms. SUTTON and Mr. ISRAEL. Committee on Financial Services. H.R. 1187: Mr. MARKEY. H.R. 3660: Mr. ALTMIRE. By Mr. MORAN of Virginia (for him- H.R. 1188: Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. HOEKSTRA, H.R. 3696: Mr. CHANDLER. self, Mr. WOLF, and Mr. TOM DAVIS of Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsylvania, and Mr. H.R. 3754: Mr. TERRY. Virginia): FERGUSON. H.R. 3769: Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. H.R. 5573. A bill to amend title 5, United H.R. 1228: Mr. PASTOR. H.R. 3799: Mr. SARBANES, Ms. DELAURO, States Code, to provide for a lump-sum pay- H.R. 1279: Mr. VAN HOLLEN and Mr. SPACE. Mrs. GILLIBRAND, and Mr. CUMMINGS. ment for certain Federal employees who re- H.R. 1282: Mr. JEFFERSON. H.R. 3819: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. tire with a substantial amount of unused H.R. 1321: Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. H.R. 3836: Mr. BISHOP of New York. sick leave for which they would not other- H.R. 1363: Mr. SKELTON. H.R. 3846: Mr. CASTLE and Mr. WAXMAN. wise receive any compensation or benefit, H.R. 1418: Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsylvania H.R. 3896: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. and for other purposes; to the Committee on and Mr. ALTMIRE. H.R. 3934: Mr. CANNON. Oversight and Government Reform. H.R. 1512: Mr. BISHOP of New York. H.R. 3980: Mr. HINOJOSA.

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H.R. 4008: Mr. GERLACH, Mr. LANGEVIN, and LATHAM, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. BAIRD, and H. Res. 543: Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. KINGSTON. Mr. HINCHEY. H. Res. 672: Mr. MARKEY. ALLIN OLE H.R. 4048: Mr. PAYNE. H. Con. Res. 302: Ms. F , Mr. C of H. Res. 821: Mr. HUNTER. H.R. 4055: Mr. PAYNE. Oklahoma, Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of H. Res. 834: Mr. ISRAEL and Mr. ENGLISH of H.R. 4071: Mr. MICHAUD and Mr. PASTOR. Florida, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. DOO- Pennsylvania. H.R. 4083: Ms. LEE. LITTLE, Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. SESSIONS, Mr. ALVERT EE H.R. 4138: Mr. GORDON and Mr. LOEBSACK. LAHOOD, Mr. MCCAUL of Texas, Mr. HAYES, H. Res. 896: Mr. C , Ms. L , Mr. ECERRA UTTERFIELD RADY H.R. 4236: Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. WU, Mr. Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico, Mrs. MUSGRAVE, B , Mr. B , Mr. B of UTTON HIGGINS, Mr. ABERCROMBIE, and Mr. WEINER. Mr. NEUGEBAUER, Mr. SIMPSON, Mr. BACHUS, Pennsylvania, and Ms. S . H.R. 4248: Ms. FALLIN and Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. TANCREDO, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. WELDON H. Res. 924: Mr. LAMBORN and Mr. H.R. 4296: Mrs. BONO MACK and Mr. LEWIS of Florida, Mr. THORNBERRY, Mr. MARCHANT, COSTELLO. of Kentucky. Mr. BRADY of Texas, Mr. ISSA, Mr. BARTLETT H. Res. 939: Mr. BUYER. H.R. 4308: Mrs. BONO MACK. of Maryland, Mrs. BIGGERT, Mr. GERLACH, H. Res. 958: Mr. PITTS. H.R. 4311: Mr. MCKEON. Mr. SHUSTER, Mr. LUCAS, Mr. TERRY, Mr. H.R. 4355: Mr. ALLEN and Mr. LOEBSACK. H. Res. 962: Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. THOMPSON SHIMKUS, Mrs. CAPITO, Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. CAS- H.R. 4544: Mr. ISRAEL and Mr. GOHMERT. of Mississippi, and Mr. RANGEL. TLE, Mr. FEENEY, Mr. MANZULLO, Mr. RADAN- H.R. 4790: Mr. WEXLER. H. Res. 973: Mr. BACA. OVICH, Mr. KING of New York, Mr. BARRETT of H.R. 4847: Mr. MCHUGH, Mr. MILLER of H. Res. 977: Mr. SPACE. South Carolina, Mr. ROGERS of Alabama, Mr. North Carolina, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, and Mrs. H. Res. 991: Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Ms. LATHAM, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, Mr. MYRICK. BORDALLO, Mr. ORTIZ, Mr. BOREN, Mr. LATTA, Mr. FOSSELLA, Mr. OLVER, Ms. FOXX, H.R. 4884: Mr. PAYNE and Mr. ANDREWS. SESTAK, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. BART- Mr. BROWN of South Carolina, Mr. CUELLAR, H.R. 4900: Mr. SHADEGG, Mr. BOSWELL, Mr. LETT of Maryland, Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. LEWIS of California, Mrs. DRAKE, Mr. WELDON of Florida, Mr. EDWARDS, Mr. WEST- Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. DAVIS of COBLE, Mr. MICA, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. MORELAND, and Mr. ROGERS of Michigan. Kentucky, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Ms. KAPTUR, CULBERSON, Mr. DREIER, Mr. CALVERT, Mr. H.R. 4959: Ms. BALDWIN and Mr. HONDA. Mr. ANDREWS, Mrs. TAUSCHER, and Mr. H.R. 5036: Mr. MCNULTY. ISRAEL, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. CANTOR, Mr. LOEBSACK. H.R. 5109: Mrs. BIGGERT, Mr. INGLIS of RUPPERSBERGER, Mr. STUPAK, Ms. DEGETTE, H. Res. 992: Ms. FALLIN, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. South Carolina, Mr. WAMP, Mr. LATTA, and Mr. WOLF, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. WAMP, Mrs. CARNAHAN, and Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Mr. SIMPSON. MYRICK, Mr. MORAN of Kansas, Mr. SCOTT of H.R. 5110: Mr. CUMMINGS and Mr. SPACE. Virginia, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, H. Res. 1004: Mr. POE and Mr. CALVERT. H.R. 5148: Ms. ESHOO, Mr. SHAYS, and Mr. Mr. TAYLOR, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. LEWIS of Geor- H. Res. 1005: Mr. PLATTS, Mr. COOPER, Mr. PLATTS. gia, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. FERGUSON, Mr. SMITH of MATHESON, Mr. EMANUEL, Mr. SHULER, Mrs. H.R. 5236: Mr. REHBERG. Texas, Mr. RAMSTAD, Mr. RUSH, Mr. EMERSON, Mr. BONNER, Mr. HOBSON, Mr. H.R. 5265: Mr. CALVERT, Ms. MATSUI, and GALLEGLY, Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. RAMSTAD, Mr. ALEXANDER, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. POE. SAM JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. CONAWAY, Mr. Mr. HAYES, Mr. MARCHANT, Mr. TIM MURPHY H.R. 5401: Mr. CARNAHAN. SNYDER, Mr. HINOJOSA, Mr. MORAN of Vir- of Pennsylvania, Mr. REYNOLDS, Mr. WALDEN H.R. 5443: Ms. WATSON. ginia, Mr. WALZ of Minnesota, Mr. LANGEVIN, of Oregon, Mr. COBLE, Mr. BOOZMAN, Mr. H.R. 5474: Ms. GIFFORDS. Mr. REYES, Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, Mr. MORAN of Kan- H.R. 5475: Ms. BERKLEY. COHEN, Mr. BURGESS, Mr. BARTON of Texas, sas, Mr. ISSA, Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of H.R. 5481: Mrs. SCHMIDT. Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. MARKEY, Ms. Florida, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. STEARNS, Mr. H.R. 5483: Mr. WITTMAN of Virginia, Mrs. BORDALLO, Mr. PUTNAM, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. WHITFIELD of Kentucky, Mr. SHUSTER, Mr. DRAKE, Mr. GOODE, Mr. CANTOR, Mr. BOU- JEFFERSON, Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, MILLER of Florida, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. JOHN- CHER, Mr. WOLF, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, and Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. AL GREEN SON of Illinois, Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. Mr. FORBES. of Texas, Mr. CHABOT, Mr. HALL of Texas, WALSH of New York, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. H.R. 5513: Ms. FOXX. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. MCNULTY, MCCOTTER, Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey, Mr. H.R. 5515: Ms. GIFFORDS, Mr. MCCRERY, Mr. Mr. MACK, and Mr. UPTON. TIBERI, Mr. BILBRAY, Mr. BOUSTANY, Mr. GOODE, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. FEENEY, H. Con. Res. 305: Mr. OLVER, Mr. BOSWELL, FORTENBERRY, Mrs. DRAKE, Mr. GILCHREST, and Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. SNYDER, Mr. MICHAUD, Mr. DUNCAN, Mr. Mr. JONES of North Carolina, Mr. RENZI, Mr. H.R. 5532: Mr. HUNTER. MORAN of Virginia, Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, and DOOLITTLE, Mr. KIRK, and Mr. COLE of Okla- H.R. 5534: Mr. CAMPBELL of California and Mr. LAHOOD. homa. Ms. SUTTON. H. Res. 76: Mr. STARK. H. Res. 1021: Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. FILNER, H. Con. Res. 163: Mr. WOLF, Mr. SCOTT of H. Res. 123: Mr. ELLISON. Ms. GIFFORDS, Mr. KIRK, and Ms. TSONGAS. Virginia, Mr. TAYLOR, Mr. BERMAN, and Mr. H. Res. 169: Mr. BISHOP of New York, Mr. H. Res. 1022: Ms. FALLIN, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. CLAY. COOPER, Mr. HENSARLING, and Mr. ISRAEL. EDWARDS, Ms. BORDALLO, and Ms. JACKSON- H. Con. Res. 262: Ms. BERKLEY and Mr. H. Res. 351: Mr. TANCREDO and Mr. SHU- LEE of Texas. SOUDER. STER. H. Con. Res. 299: Mr. COHEN, Mrs. Wilson of H. Res. 356: Mr. HUNTER. H. Res. 1023: Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. New Mexico, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. H. Res. 407: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. H. Res. 1026: Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee.

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Vol. 154 WASHINGTON, MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2008 No. 40 Senate The Senate met at 2 p.m. and was appoint the Honorable JIM WEBB, a Senator BUDGET DEBATE called to order by the Honorable JIM from the Commonwealth of Virginia, to per- WEBB, a Senator from the Common- form the duties of the Chair. Mr. REID. Mr. President, in an hour wealth of Virginia. ROBERT C. BYRD, we are starting the budget. Under the President pro tempore. law that governs what we do, there is PRAYER Mr. WEBB thereupon assumed the 50 hours of debate on this matter. It is The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- chair as Acting President pro tempore. one of the few items in the Senate that fered the following prayer: f has a time certain. The good news is Let us pray. that we have Senators CONRAD and Eternal God, as we begin another RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY GREGG who will be managing this. workweek, humble us under Your LEADER They are two experts on money within mighty hand, that in due time You may exalt us. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- this body. They work extremely well As our lawmakers grapple with to- pore. The majority leader is recog- together. They disagree on a number of day’s challenges, give them the humil- nized. issues in the budget, but they approach ity to cast their cares on You, for You it in a gentlemanly fashion. They are, f possess great love for them. Remind in my estimation, two of the finest them that You sustain the universe by SCHEDULE Senators this body has ever had. As far Your providential power and that noth- as matters relating to money, they are, Mr. REID. Mr. President, following ing is too difficult for You to accom- in my years of service here in the Sen- plish. Let not their hearts be troubled my remarks and those of the Repub- lican leader, the Senate will be in a pe- ate, really outstanding. They are by overwhelming obstacles, but may friends. They are adversaries. They do they run with patience the race that is riod of morning business until 3 p.m. Senators will be allowed to speak for it in a way that should make the Sen- set before them. Inspire their thinking, ate and the country proud. That is the strengthen their resolve, and give them up to 10 minutes each, with the time good news. success in their efforts. equally divided and controlled between We pray in the Name of Him who is the two leaders or their designees. Fol- The bad news is that other than the the author and finisher of our faith. lowing morning business, the Senate time limit on this budget, there are a Amen. will proceed to consideration of the lot of changes we talk about needing to f concurrent resolution on the budget. make, and we have for years, but we There will be no rollcall votes today. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE haven’t made them, which means we f come to a point where we have what is The Honorable JIM WEBB led the called the vote-athon, which means Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: MEASURE PLACED ON THE Senators have an unlimited number of I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the CALENDAR—S. 2734 United States of America, and to the Repub- opportunities to offer amendments. lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Mr. REID. Mr. President, S. 2734 is at Until the Chair rules that it is a dila- indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. the desk and due for its second reading. tory tactic, that can go on for a long f The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- period of time. pore. The clerk will read the bill by APPOINTMENT OF ACTING I have explained to the Republican title for the second time. PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE leader—we talked at some length on The assistant legislative clerk read one occasion on the telephone—that we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The as follows: are going to finish this bill this week. clerk will please read a communication A bill (S. 2734) to aid families and neigh- to the Senate from the President pro borhoods facing home foreclosure and ad- The question is, we would like to do it tempore (Mr. BYRD). dress the subprime mortgage crisis. on Thursday. It is my understanding The legislative clerk read the fol- Mr. REID. I object to any further that all the Presidentials will be here lowing letter: proceedings with respect to this bill at on Thursday. They will be here on Fri- U.S. SENATE, this time. day if we don’t finish this bill on PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Thursday. They will be here on Satur- Washington, DC, March 10, 2008. day if we don’t finish the bill on Fri- To the Senate: pore. Objection is heard. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, The bill will be placed on the cal- day. I hope we can work toward fin- of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby endar. ishing this bill sometime Thursday. It

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

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.000 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1786 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 is my recollection that we did it last work in those industries that cause The President pays for his tax give- year on Thursday. That is what we are those industries to be deemed as losing aways to the wealthy in part by pro- facing. As a result, we will work to see jobs. posing deep cuts to Medicare and Med- if we can have a process that is fair and In 7 years of Bush economics, oil is icaid—that is a fact—while under- gives people the opportunity to offer up to an alltime high. Today, the last funding everything from terrorism pre- the amendments they believe are im- I looked, it was over $107 a barrel. Gas vention to veterans education. That is portant. prices are double what they were when not just irresponsible fiscal policy. There are a number of issues we the President took office, and they are Many believe, as I met with a group of know. I think Senators GREGG and climbing. The average gallon of gaso- religious leaders last week, that it is CONRAD will agree there are probably line in America now is about $3.20 a immoral fiscal policy. four main issues that are going to be gallon. The highest gasoline is in San This week, we are proposing a budget extremely controversial in the budget Francisco; the lowest is in Casper, WY. that abandons Bush economics, lowers this year. We will work toward having The cost of college is up by some 60 taxes for the middle class, creates new a time that we can complete that. percent since President Bush took of- jobs, and turns our struggling economy This week marks the 75th anniver- fice. Health care costs are up 80 percent around. This requires both immediate sary of President Franklin Roosevelt’s since President Bush took office. Has help and long-term solutions. In short, first fireside chat. In his first fireside anything gone down? Yes. Annual our budget calls for further steps to stimulate growth and address the hous- chat on March 12, 1933, President Roo- household income is down by $1,000. ing crisis. It sets aside $35 billion for sevelt reassured the American people Who has prospered from 7 years of measures such as extending unemploy- that despite the fear and uncertainty Bush economics? At parties and private ment insurance, providing home heat- of a banking crisis and a deeply trou- meetings, President Bush’s CEO friends ing and nutrition assistance, and re- bled economy, working people—or, in and oil buddies must be telling him the building our crumbling roads and his words, ‘‘average citizens’’—would economy is doing great, because they bridges. Everyone should know that for be just fine. are doing really well. Exxon, for exam- every billion dollars we spend in devel- He said: ple, made the highest net profit of any oping roads, bridges, dams, highways, You . . . must have faith; you must not be company in the history of the country. It is no wonder the President doesn’t water systems, sewer systems, we cre- stampeded by rumors or guesses. ate 47,500 high-paying jobs. We help Let us unite in banishing fear. We have see a recession coming, because the provided the machinery to restore our finan- people he deals with are doing just fine. families avoid losing their homes in cial system, and it is up to you to support Look at the enormous compensation our budget to foreclosure, a measure and make it work. It is your problem, my packages earned by CEOs of companies that has been blocked by Republican friends, your problem no less than mine. To- that have been failures: Contrywide, filibuster. gether we cannot fail. Citigroup, Merrill Lynch. These com- For the long-term, our budget calls President Roosevelt was right. With pensation packages were in the hun- for meaningful investments in energy, education, and infrastructure. These President Roosevelt’s leadership and dreds of millions of dollars for compa- investments will create jobs, provide the grit and determination of the nies that were failing, even as their in- Americans with new tools to succeed, American people, our country not only dustry has spiraled downward and the increase productivity, improve our en- survived the Great Depression but em- consumers they serve have suffered. vironment, and help ensure a strong braced a new era of prosperity. That The middle class has not done so well. and growing economy. These are not success was due in no small part to They have been forgotten. They have just wishes or dreams. We were able to President Roosevelt’s understanding been left behind. accomplish that. The last years of the that working Americans built our After 7 years of fiscal irrespon- Clinton administration, we were spend- country and working Americans were sibility, consider what President Bush ing less money than we were taking in. critical to our continued prosperity. wants to do next. His budget calls for We were actually paying down the Seven years ago, President George spending $51 billion to hand out more Bush inherited a budget surplus for the debt. tax breaks for Americans with incomes The budget we are working on this year of more than $200 billion, the re- of greater than $1 million. That works week also rejects the Bush administra- sult of a responsible Clinton adminis- out that each of these millionaires will tion’s deep cuts in Medicare and Med- tration economic policy. These sur- get $125,000—all to a fortunate few who icaid and will expand health care cov- pluses were projected to continue for need help the least. With such gen- erage for children. It would make the foreseeable future. erosity for those doing the best, one America safer by embracing our troops Now 7 years into the Bush adminis- would think the President would take and veterans and rejecting the admin- tration, we find that tax breaks for big care of those struggling the most. But istration’s plan to underfund antiter- business and the superwealthy have that is not the case. rorism and anticrime initiatives. combined with $12 billion per month On the housing crisis, for example, In stark contrast to the President’s war in Iraq and cuts to investments in the proposal we have put forward calls continued fiscal irresponsibility, our our workforce and infrastructure to for five simple things. Transparency—if budget would restore fiscal discipline. create a budget deficit of more than you are going to buy a home, have it so It would maintain strong pay-as-you- $400 billion and a national debt that that people understand the terms of go rules, which were in effect in the has grown by $3 trillion. The result: an the deal. It is very simple. JACK REED Clinton years, which really worked. economy that is failing millions of pushed that. CDBG money to go to The budget would be fully balanced in American families. local governments to buy foreclosed 3 years. President Bush said last week that properties. Local governments are cry- Our bipartisan budget sets a path to- he doesn’t believe America is headed ing for these moneys. Revenue bonds ward a stronger economic future. We toward a recession. You have to hunt would allow the law to be changed. In- can make it even stronger by passing hard to find an economist who would stead of revenue bonds to buy new an amendment that will be offered by agree with him. The question is no homes, you could buy foreclosed or the distinguished chairman of the Fi- longer are we headed for a recession used homes. And then the loss nance Committee, Senator BAUCUS of but how long and how deep it will be. carryforward that is so important for Montana. Several colleagues will join For the second month in a row, the the homebuilding industry—the money in that. The Baucus amendment would American economy lost jobs—22,000 in you have made in the past could be off- use projected surpluses to cut taxes on January, 63,000 in February. Who bore set with the money that has been lost the middle class—extending marriage the worst of this job loss? People who in recent years. Finally, the bank- penalty relief, the child tax credit, and work in the manufacturing industry, ruptcy provision—we have talked a lot the 10-percent tax bracket. The amend- people who work in construction, peo- about it here—to allow people to have ment also reforms the estate tax to ple who build homes. It is not manufac- the bankruptcy court take a look at protect small businesses and family turing that lost jobs; it is not construc- their loans and see if they can readjust farms and includes other tax cuts as tion that lost jobs; it is the people who the loans. well.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.008 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1787 Democrats believe in cutting taxes— proposal, and taxpayers all across crats assured voters they would not not for chief executive officers of these America groaned. It really was not raise taxes on working-class and mid- big companies, not for oil men, but for very pretty. The Democrats propose to dle-class voters. Well, this budget cer- middle-class families who need help the increase discretionary spending above tainly fell short of that mark. most. the $1 trillion mark for the first time The proposed tax hike the Democrats Mr. President, I have already talked ever. To pay for it, they want to in- sent down last week is four times big- about the two men who are going to crease taxes by a lot—the largest tax ger than the one in 1993 that even manage this bill: Chairman CONRAD hike in history. President Clinton said was too big for and ranking member JUDD GREGG. The timing, of course, could not be Americans and, ultimately, even for They really do good work. Now it is up worse. At a time when Americans are him. How can Democrats think the to the full Senate to follow Senator seeing record gas prices, falling home American people will accept this one? CONRAD’s lead, and that of Senator values, and higher health care and tui- Do they think Americans want to see JUDD GREGG, to move forward and get a tion costs, the other side sees higher the gains of the last 6 years washed budget that can be the blueprint for taxes and more spending. Rather than away by a budget that reinstates every what we do the rest of this Congress. offer a plan to address the concerns of tax we have lowered or repealed over I look forward to an open, productive the day, they offer a plan to make that period? budget debate this week. I hope that those costs harder to meet inside the Budget week is always a clarifying with the kind of steely resolve Presi- limits of a family budget. At a time of time of year on Capitol Hill. What the dent Roosevelt showed, we can put the heightened economic worry, our other side’s budget makes clear once failed Bush economic policies behind us friends’ plan for America is for families again is that our friends on the other and pass a fair, responsible budget that to keep less of their money and they side are more concerned about growing makes America stronger, safer, and insist that Government spend more. the size and scope of Washington more prosperous. The effect of all this on U.S. families spending, while we want to grow the would be crushing. Under the Demo- family’s budget. At a time of great eco- f cratic budget, the average American nomic uncertainty, Americans expect family would see their annual tax bill more from Government than a $1.2 tril- lion tax hike and billions of dollars in Mr. REID. Mr. President, I had the go up by $2,300 a year. Nearly 20 mil- lion seniors would see their taxes go up new spending. good fortune to meet earlier today This budget spends more than $775 with the head of the Peace Corps. His by more than $2,000 a year. And 8 mil- lion low-income workers would be billion from the Social Security sur- name is Ron Tschetter—a wonderful plus. It increases gross debt by more man who was approved overwhelmingly added to the tax roles. At a time of increased economic con- than $2 trillion. It increases the deficit not that long ago by the full Senate. by almost $400 billion. And it com- The Peace Corps is one of the pro- cern, Democrats want the average American family to have $2,300 less for pletely ignores the question of where grams that is so good for this country we are going to get the money to pay and the world. We have a little over the family budget under their plan. That is enough money to pay for an en- for $66 trillion in promised entitle- 8,000 Peace Corps volunteers. We should ments—this despite the fact that the have twice as many. The President said tire year’s worth of gas for two cars. It is about what the average American Democratic chairman of the Budget a couple years ago he was going to dou- Committee has explicitly said we need ble the Peace Corps from 7,000 to 14,000. family with two kids spends on health care in 9 months. It is also enough to to reform entitlement programs. That has not happened. He has in- Republicans made a pledge last year buy 8 months’ worth of groceries. creased it by a few hundred, and that is to fight tax increases and to rein in The average American family would very, very important. From Nevada, we spending. We stuck by that pledge last suffer a lot under this plan. Consider a have 22 Peace Corps volunteers out of year. In these difficult economic times, family in Kentucky that is just start- the 8,000. They are from all over the we will certainly stick by it this year. ing to think about college for a new world. With this budget, Democrats want to baby. If that family took the $2,300 As I have had the good fortune of spend more from Washington and raise Democrats are asking for in new taxes being able to travel as a representative your taxes to pay for it. I, for one, will and invested it each year in a tax-free of our country around the world over vote to allow families to keep more of college savings account, they would the last several decades, every place I what they earn so they can decide how have nearly $75,000 for college by the go, I visit with Peace Corps volunteers to spend it. time that child was ready to attend because there is no group of individuals school. f that does more for our country in set- This budget is not the answer Ameri- HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES ting good, high-quality standards than cans have been looking for. It is a cli- the Peace Corps volunteers. They do CORPORAL GARY BRENT COLEMAN che. When faced with a challenge, great work, and I am very proud of Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Democrats always answer with a sim- them. rise today to honor the life of a soldier ple three-word response: tax and spend. These Peace Corps volunteers, when who gave his life in defense of his coun- And this year is certainly no different. they are interviewed, are not Demo- try. CPL Gary Brent Coleman of American families and their children Pikeville, KY, perished on November crats or Republicans, they are Ameri- are the ones who will lose out under cans, and they do great public service. 21, 2003, in Balad, Iraq, when his vehicle this tax-and-spend plan. Democrats overturned mid-chase during combat They are true public servants, and I am promise to pay for everything but very proud of the work they have done operations. He was 24 years old. make families pay instead. They prom- The memorial service for Corporal and will continue to do throughout the ised middle-class tax relief last year world on behalf of America. Coleman was so large it filled the audi- but did nothing to enact it. They prom- torium of his alma mater, Pikeville f ise to reduce the debt but increase it High School. Brent, as he was known, RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY instead. And they promise to address had been a local hero for his prowess on LEADER long-term entitlement spending but the football field. He became an even only make the problem worse with greater hero by stepping forward in a The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- higher taxes and more spending. time of war. pore. The Republican leader is recog- Over the last 25 years, Republican Friends, family members and fellow nized. economic policies have lifted tens of soldiers spoke, one after another, on f millions of working families into the the effect Brent had had in their lives. middle class. We did it through lower When it was over, Brent’s father, Gary BUDGET WEEK taxes, controlled spending, and keeping Keene Coleman, said, ‘‘I was . . . proud Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, last our defenses strong. Democrats know that Brent had made that type of an week our friends on the other side these policies worked. That is why, as impact on so many people. But I would pulled back the curtain on their budget we began this Congress, many Demo- rather for him to be here.’’

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.009 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1788 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 For his bravery in uniform, Corporal when Brent joined the Army. After at- flown over this Capitol. Neither that Coleman received many medals, awards tending Marshall University in Hun- flag nor the words we say here today and decorations, including the Army tington, WV, for 2 years, he enlisted on can make up for what the Coleman Achievement Medal, the Army Com- July 11, 2001, and underwent basic family has lost. But they are the very mendation Medal, the Purple Heart and training at the U.S. Army Armor Cen- least we can do to honor Brent’s mem- the . ter at Fort Knox, KY. He graduated ory. Brent was born in Pikeville, in east- Basic in the top five overall. We are thinking today of Brent’s ern Kentucky, and spent the majority Brent was then assigned to Company loved ones, including his wife Kirsten of his life in the area. From a young B, 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, Sinley Coleman; his mother Janie age he was not afraid to speak his 4th Infantry Division, based out of Fort Adkins Johnson; his father Gary Keene mind. When Brent was about six or Carson, CO. Upon graduating basic Coleman; his brother Jason Byron seven, he and his family went to the training, he told his family, ‘‘I know I Coleman; his grandmother Ruby Cole- circus. They had lions there, and the can make it on my own.’’ man Damron; and many other family lion tamer was directing them with his Brent saw service to his country as a members and friends. whip. way of life. ‘‘He was going to make a Mr. President, today, March 10, is But young Brent thought the lion career out of it, and I encouraged him Brent’s birthday. It is a day to cele- tamer was using the whip on the to,’’ says Gary. Brent held several posi- brate Brent’s life, and I thought an ap- lions—and that despite their sharp tions on the M1A1 Abrams tank, in- propriate day for me to speak on how claws and teeth, they needed a small cluding gunner and loader, and he he lived, and what he lived for. boy to come to their aid. ‘‘Stop that eventually became a tank commander. To the Coleman family who have lost right now!’’ he yelled to the lion tamer. Stationed in Colorado Springs, Brent a husband, brother, and son, I want to The whole circus audience laughed at met a special woman there, and Brent say this: CPL Gary Brent Coleman left Brent’s display of compassion and and Kirsten Sinley Coleman became this world a hero. And on behalf of a bravery. husband and wife. They married in grateful Nation, the U.S. Senate hon- Brent loved sports, and grew up play- March, 3 weeks before Brent deployed ors his life of sacrifice and service. ing T-Ball, baseball, and football. Once to Iraq. f when Brent and his cousin Ben were The star running back and tank com- both 12 years old, Brent showed Ben mander who had already acquired a few RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME how to hold the football close to his nicknames soon picked up another The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- chest. Ben took the ball and ran, Brent from his fellow soldiers: ‘‘Hollywood.’’ pore. Under the previous order, the tackled him, and I guess Ben was hold- I will let SSG Jason Gallegos, who leadership time is reserved. ing the ball a little too tightly—it served with Brent, explain why. broke his shoulder and his rib. Brent ‘‘was about five-foot-five and f Gary took Brent and his brother, weighed about 175 pounds,’’ Staff Ser- MORNING BUSINESS Jason, to the Super Bowl every year. geant Gallegos says. ‘‘His body was The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Brent’s favorite team was the Detroit short in stature, but he was pure mus- pore. Under the previous order, the Lions, and star running back Barry cle with about maybe eight to nine per- Senate will proceed to a period for the Sanders was his role model. Brent, cent body fat.’’ transaction of morning business until 3 Gary, and Jason would fly to wherever ‘‘He looked like an action figure, a p.m., with Senators permitted to speak the big game was and stay for the poster child of what a United States for up to 10 minutes each and with the weekend; they never missed a Super soldier looks like. . . . The reason be- time equally divided and controlled be- Bowl. hind the nickname was because Cor- Football was more than just a game poral Coleman worked out hard every- tween the two leaders or their des- to watch for Brent, it was his passion, day here for two to three hours a day. ignees. and he excelled at it. At Pikeville High ‘‘Then whenever he got the oppor- The Senator from Washington is rec- School, Brent was an all-county run- tunity, he would go outside our bunker ognized. ning back for the Pikeville Panthers. into the sun in just his PT shorts, place f mirrors around him, put on his shades He was named offensive player of the AIR FORCE CONTRACT AWARD year at the start of his senior year, in and throw on some music and tan. It 1996, and he is still the leading rusher was like he was a movie star.’’ Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, in the and scorer in the school’s history. Brent was well liked by his fellow last several days, we have learned some The Kentucky High School Athletic soldiers; and not just because of funny surprising things about the Air Force’s Association recognizes Brent for hold- stories like these. He was liked and re- decision to award a $40 billion contract ing these records: 8th overall in career spected because he always gave his to the European company, Airbus. yards rushing, tenth overall in career best, and encouraged others to do the The Air Force wants Airbus, which is touchdowns, and 11th overall in career same. headquartered in Toulouse, France, to points scored. ‘‘He would always volunteer for the supply our next generation of aerial re- ‘‘Brent was idolized by the students tough missions,’’ Staff Sergeant fueling tankers. It chose Airbus over and their parents,’’ says Eddie Cole- Gallegos says. ‘‘ ‘Be smart and be ag- the American company, Boeing, which man, Brent’s uncle. ‘‘He was a local gressive,’ he would say, because he felt has been making those tankers for the hero before he was the real hero.’’ if you’re passive then you not only en- last 50 years. With so much talent came an appro- danger yourself, but also your soldiers. I have made it clear over the past priate nickname. Brent’s teammates . . . He was there for anybody, no mat- several days that I think this decision called him ‘‘Rocket,’’ because he could ter what platoon, what day of the is shortsighted and dangerous. But find a hole and plow right through it. week, or what time of day.’’ today, even more questions have been Footage from a local television sta- At Brent’s funeral, his sergeant told raised about the process the Air Force tion shows Brent earned yet another the Coleman family, ‘‘Brent was 24 and followed to make this decision. So I nickname—‘‘Stumpy.’’ ‘‘I guess be- they get a lot of 18-year-olds. Brent want to take the opportunity this cause I’m short and fat,’’ a grinning would always volunteer to take the afternoon to walk through the impact I Brent said to the TV reporter. young ones’ places to protect them.’’ believe the Air Force decision will have ‘‘He didn’t lack for confidence,’’ his ‘‘He served his country. He never because I think we need to take a good father Gary tells us. ‘‘Brent was some- complained. He was made for the mili- hard look at whether we as Members of one with compassion, always trying to tary, physically and mentally,’’ Brent’s the Senate think this contract should do good, always trying to do the right father, Gary, says. ‘‘He said he had a be finalized. thing, and he had a competitive person- job to do.’’ First, we need to be very cautious ality.’’ Mr. President, I had the honor of about any decision that awards the Everyone around him could see Brent meeting Gary Coleman in 2005, and I right to build a critical part of our was special, and that did not change presented him with an American flag military air technology to a company

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.011 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1789 that is controlled by a foreign govern- at a time such as this, their Govern- NATIONAL SECURITY ISSUES ment. What happens if that govern- ment is saying it wants to take Amer- Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I rise ment disagrees with us on foreign pol- ican tax dollars—our tax dollars—and today to talk about three issues that I icy? What if it decides it wants to slow give that money to a foreign company think are vitally important for our na- down our military capacity? Do we to build planes for our military. tional security. First, there is this want another country to have that We have more reason for concern be- matter of terrorist surveillance and kind of control? cause for decades Europe provided sub- our national security. The Air Force, of course, did not take sidies, their subsidies, to prop up Air- This body passed the bipartisan FISA that into consideration. They said they bus and EADS. Airbus, they have said, Act bill overwhelmingly—more than 2 didn’t have to. I think this case is a is a jobs program that has led to tens to 1—several days before the Protect perfect example of how misguided that of thousands of layoffs in the United America Act was to expire. The Direc- idea is. States, and EADS has made little se- tor of National Intelligence has told us Airbus is owned by the European cret of its desire to dismantle the how important this bill is because Aeronautic Defense and Space Com- American aerospace industry. without it, intelligence gaps likely will pany—EADS—which in turn is con- Our Government, in fact, is con- reopen, putting the safety of America— trolled by several nations. Among cerned enough about these practices those of us in the United States—and them are countries which have not al- that we now have a WTO case against our troops on the battlefield at risk. ways agreed with the United States on the EU over this. Yet here we are, last Yet the House Speaker refuses to allow foreign policy. They include Russia, week our Government awarded Airbus a vote on the Senate’s bill, even though which has a 5-percent stake, and the this $40 billion contract anyway. That a majority of House Members support should give us a great deal of pause be- United Arab Emirates, which controls its passage. If you vote, that means cause EADS is already looking to build 7.5 percent of EADS. something. If you win, you win; if you on the toehold that contract gives Now, EADS has already dem- lose, you lose. But the leadership in the them into our aerospace industry. House apparently thinks those rules onstrated it is willing to bend the rules In fact, a report in a leading French if it can help the company make don’t apply to the FISA debate. news service today says the executive Even though the Speaker failed to money. I have talked extensively on president of EADS—Airbus—wants to the floor of the Senate about their at- pass a 21-day extension of the existing build on the company’s success with law in her own body, the leadership has tempts to sell military helicopters and the tanker contract and propose to the planes to and to Venezuela. But acted as though the PAA deadline was EADS board ‘‘two takeover projects in extended. There has been no action. now we are opening the doors to a key the fields of defense, security, or serv- piece of our military defense to them. So what is the House going to do this ices.’’ week? Well, the Speaker has signaled America’s global military strength is And he said: ‘‘One of them at least built on our ability to use our military that the House will vote on overriding should be in the United States.’’ the President’s veto of the 2008 intel- might anywhere in the world at a mo- That brings me to my final point this ligence authorization bill, even though ment’s notice. Aerial tankers are the afternoon. Why didn’t the Air Force she knows there are not enough votes linchpin of our air power because they consider these obvious questions about to override the vote. Why? Because ap- allow the U.S. Air Force to stretch national security and about economic parently, the House leadership has de- across the globe. Until now, the tech- security? Well, the Los Angeles Times cided it is more important to make a nology that powered these critical today suggests an answer. They report political statement about interroga- planes rested in the hands of Boeing on the front page of their paper today tion techniques than to give the intel- and its American workforce that has that EADS and its partner, Northrop ligence community the tools it needs been building them for more than 50 Grumman, may have played a role in to conduct surveillance of foreign in- years. narrowing the scope of what the Air telligence. Until now, our tankers have been Force looked at. In fact, the Times re- The IC—the intelligence commu- ports that Northrop executives ensured built by manufacturers, designers, and nity—needs these tools and authorities that the Air Force wouldn’t ask the engineers who are bound by law from that are provided in the bill we passed. competitors how Government subsidies selling technology to countries that They are working tirelessly to protect would help pay for the design and de- sponsor terrorism. But as a result of us from real and constant terrorist velopment of the tanker—the subject this contract, we are allowing EADS to threats, and they should not have to take over a cornerstone of our military of the very WTO dispute I just men- tioned. wait any longer for the House to pass technology, and we are actually paying that measure. them to do it. In fact, I argue that de- According to that article, Northrop made threats in order to shape the cri- Secondly, let me talk about Korea cision was a $40 billion investment in briefly. I just came from an Appropria- the military research budget of EADS teria the Air Force followed. The Times reports: tions Defense Subcommittee hearing and Airbus. with General Bell, our commanding The Air Force has said it wasn’t their Northrop threatened at one point to pull out of the competition if the Air Force didn’t general in Korea. He told us that not responsibility to take our security or change the way the aircraft would be evalu- just a brave new wind but a typhoon our industry into account. Well, I say ated. has blown through South Korea, and to my colleagues: Congress must—we So did the Air Force pull a bait and the previous government that was in must—be more forward-looking than switch with this contract? Did it un- many ways anti-American was totally that. fairly change the process to benefit willing to accommodate North Korea Secondly, I question why the Air EADS? in all of its efforts, which included Force was not required to take the eco- I believe there are many serious building missiles and nuclear weapons, nomic impact into consideration when questions about this selection process. and rebuff the United States. it awarded this contract. If Boeing had As U.S. Senators, it is our job to con- Well, the people of Korea had enough, won this contract, it would have cre- sider the future of our national secu- and they overwhelmingly elected a new ated 44,000 U.S. jobs. But it is far from rity and our defense. I believe we need President, President Lee Myung-bak, clear what kind of an investment Air- open and honest answers to those ques- who ran on a platform of revitalizing bus and its partner, Northrop Grum- tions before this contract is finalized. the economy, making any actions with man, plan to make in the United In fact, I think we ought to demand the North Korea reciprocal, and improving States. answers. Our economy and our aero- their alliance with the U.S. position. Our economy is hurting. We are near- space industry are suffering, and we The candidate who came in second ing a recession, if we aren’t already are at war across the globe. We have to agreed with him on these issues. The there. Families across the country are get this right. Our future depends on it. previous leadership candidate got sin- struggling to get by, in part because Mr. President, I yield the floor. gle digits. their factory jobs have been moved The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- The most important things we can do overseas. Workers across this country pore. The Senator from Missouri is rec- are to increase our trade and our mili- are frustrated, and they are angry that ognized. tary assistance to South Korea. South

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.012 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1790 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 Korea is already our largest importer helping our friends and allies and ex- U.S. fight against narco-traffickers, and he for military equipment, and they live panding our export opportunities to now wants to link his country more closely in a very dangerous part of the world. create jobs here. to America with a free trade accord. As a If the Democratic leadership in Con- strategic matter, to reject Colombia’s offer They are right next door to China and now would tell everyone in Latin America close to bordering on Russia, just gress is so concerned about improving that it is far more dangerous to trust Amer- across the straits from Japan, and they America’s image abroad and helping ica than it is to trash it. are potentially—they have been and our slumping economy, why don’t we Mr. President, continuing to deny they will be our most important ally. start by helping our friends? We can do and delay Colombia TPA will be a But we have given higher foreign mili- that by opening up markets for ex- great disadvantage to America’s econ- tary sales status to three former So- ports. Friends like Colombia and Korea omy, damage our reputation in Colom- viet Union States and five countries are fighting terrorism, embracing bia and throughout Latin America, un- from the Warsaw Pact, none of which America’s values. It is a solid security dercut a key ally in President Uribe, are as good friends as South Korea. rock for us to build upon. and further embolden anti-American I have filed a bill, S. 1846, the United In Colombia, the interdiction of two dictators like Hugo Chavez, ultimately States-Republic of Korea Defense Co- high-value targets—senior terror plan- resulting in a less secure and stable operation and Improvement Act of 2007, ners and former operators—is a testi- Latin America. that would give them the status of mony to the Uribe administration’s Mr. President, I call upon and urge NATO plus 3, so we could continue to commitment to ending terror in his my colleagues on the other side of the expand on our vital defense trade with country. It is important to remember aisle to let us bring up for a vote and them. He says this is his top priority. that the terrorist group FARC cur- pass the Korean free-trade agreement We are already cooperating with them. rently holds more than 700 political and the Colombia free-trade agree- There is new cooperation. There is an and military prisoners. Three of them ment. Not only will that benefit us eco- opportunity to build an even stronger are Americans. Yet our Democratic nomically, it will strengthen the U.S. ally in the region to help keep that re- colleagues, through all their rhetoric, image throughout the world and help gion safe, peaceful, and secure. seem to care more about improving our build a stable, strategic ally in Colom- Secondarily, for Korea, we also need image with rogue regimes such as bia that can stop the threat of more re- to approve the United States-Korea and Iran than helping our friends gimes committed to the Marxism that Free Trade Agreement. Free trade is in places such as Colombia and Korea. Cuba so famously demonstrated, which one of the best ways we have of assur- Their rejection of the free-trade agree- brought destruction and hardship to ing that other countries get the devel- ments damages our strategic alliances the people of Cuba. opment they need, we can develop the and says to the world that the United These are important foreign policy friendship we have and improve our States is closed for business. And it matters. One leader in the majority on economy and theirs. A Korea-United does so at a time when we need to be the other side of the body said: Well, States trade agreement would give open for business, open for better ties. politically, we cannot do it. Politi- lower tariff barriers, and get rid of So why, in light of the economic and cally, we cannot help those who help many of them, to keep our agriculture, strategic benefits of the Colombia us? Politically, we cannot pass a bill machine goods, and high-tech goods FTA, are the Democrats determined to that will keep our country safer by from going into South Korea. We need delay and deny these benefits? Why, passing the FISA bill? Politically, we to do that. through their actions, are they cannot help an ally such as South But there are political objections. emboldening Venezuelan leftist Hugo Korea, which is in a very strategic po- That brings me to the third important Chavez and undercutting the President sition? And politically, we cannot help point: Colombia. Colombia has pending of Colombia, who is a friend? President Colombia, which is fighting with the United States a United Uribe has done more to reduce violence narcotraffickers as well as the efforts by Hugo Chavez for spreading a Marx- States-Colombia Free Trade Agree- in Colombia than any modern leader in ist regime and the totalitarian govern- ment. As I have just said, trade and Bogota, including crimes against labor ment which impoverishes and denies commercial ties are one of the most ef- unionists. He has pushed back Marxist fective arrows in our quiver of smart rights to his citizens? guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Mr. President, the time to act is now. power. In Colombia, it is an affirma- Forces of Colombia, FARC, and the Na- I urge my colleagues on both sides to tion of support to our friends. They are tional Liberation Army, the ELN. He make these matters a serious concern our strongest ally on an increasingly has reduced crime and substantially and see if we can do the job for which left-leaning continent—another area improved Colombia’s security and eco- we were elected—to help keep our where they are our best friends in a nomic situations, with official statis- country safe and secure. dangerous area. tics showing murders plummeting by Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- The administration of the President as much as 50 percent and kidnappings sent that the editorial from the Wall of Colombia, President Uribe, finds by as much as 75 percent. Street Journal of today, March 10, 2008, itself surrounded by states determined Today’s Wall Street Journal, which I called ‘‘The Chavez Democrats’’ be to undermine Colombia’s burgeoning will submit later, is entitled ‘‘Delaying printed in the RECORD, along with a democracy. The states around them and Denying.’’ They sum it up like similar and very compelling article on provide safe haven to insurgent ter- this: the op-ed page of , rorist groups, allowing them freedom What is it about Democrats and Hugo Cha- by Jackson Diehl, called ‘‘The FARC’s to maneuver in border areas, and they vez? Even as the Venezuelan strongman was Guardian Angel,’’ be printed in the threatening war last week against Colombia, even provide monetary support for RECORD. drug and terror activities against Congress was threatening to hand him a There being no objection, the mate- huge strategic victory by spurning Colom- President Uribe’s government in Co- rial was ordered to be printed in the lombia. If we are serious, as we must bia’s free trade overtures to the U.S. This isn’t the first time Democrats have RECORD, as follows: be, about maintaining peace, security, come to Mr. Chavez’s aid, but it would be the [From the Wall Street Journal, Mar. 10, 2008] and stability in Latin America, the most destructive. The Venezuelan is engaged THE CHAVEZ DEMOCRATS northern part of Latin America, we in a high-stakes competition over the polit- What is it about Democrats and Hugo must work with them. ical and economic direction of Latin Amer- Cha´ vez? Even as the Venezuelan strongman Free trade will not only expand our ica. He wants the region to follow his path of was threatening war last week against Co- economic and commercial ties, but it ever greater state control of the economy, lombia, Congress was threatening to hand will strengthen the critical cultural while assisting U.S. enemies wherever he him a huge strategic victory by spurning Co- ties and strategic alliances, and that can. He’s already won converts in lombia’s free trade overtures to the U.S. will lead to a more peaceful and stable and Ecuador, and he came far too close for This isn’t the first time Democrats have American comfort in Mexico’s election last come to Mr. Cha´ vez’s aid, but it would be the world. year. most destructive. The Venezuelan is engaged At a time when America’s image is Meanwhile, Colombian President Alvaro in a high-stakes competition over the polit- suffering in the world and our economy Uribe is embracing greater economic and po- ical and economic direction of Latin Amer- at home is slumping, we should be litical freedom. He has bravely assisted the ica. He wants the region to follow his path of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.013 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1791 ever greater state control of the economy, ambitious ‘‘strategic plan’’ agreed on by in the past, and some have quietly urged while assisting U.S. enemies wherever he Cha´ vez and the FARC with the initial goal of Bush to take him on. If the president decides can. He’s already won converts in Bolivia gaining international recognition for a to ignore clear evidence that Venezuela has and Ecuador, and he came far too close for movement designated a terrorist organiza- funded and conspired with an officially des- American comfort in Mexico’s election last tion by both the United States and Europe. ignated terrorist organization, he will flout year. Cha´ vez then intended to force Colombian what has been his first principle since Sept. Meanwhile, Colombian President A´ lvaro President A´ lvaro Uribe to negotiate a polit- 11, 2001. Uribe is embracing greater economic and po- ical settlement with the FARC, and to pro- Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I yield the litical freedom. He has bravely assisted the mote a candidate allied with Cha´ vez and the U.S. fight against narco-traffickers, and he FARC to take power from Uribe. floor and suggest the absence of a now wants to link his country more closely All this is laid out in a series of three e- quorum. to America with a free-trade accord. As a mails sent in February to the FARC’s top The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- strategic matter, to reject Colombia’s offer leaders by Iva´ n Ma´ rquez and Rodrigo pore. The clerk will call the roll. now would tell everyone in Latin America Granda, envoys who held a series of secret The bill clerk proceeded to call the that it is far more dangerous to trust Amer- meetings with Cha´ vez. Judging from the roll. ´ ica than it is to trash it. memos, Chavez did most of the talking: He Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I ask outlines a five-stage plan for undermining Yet Democrats on Capitol Hill are doing unanimous consent that the order for their best to help Mr. Cha´ vez prevail against Uribe’s government, beginning with the re- Mr. Uribe. Even as Mr. Cha´ vez was doing his lease of several of the scores of hostages the the quorum call be rescinded. war dance, Senate Finance Chairman Max FARC is holding. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Baucus was warning the White House not to The first e-mail, dated Feb. 8, discusses the pore. Without objection, it is so or- send the Colombia deal to for a vote money: It says that Cha´ vez, whom they call dered. without the permission of Democratic lead- ‘‘angel,’’ ‘‘has the first 50 [million] available f ers. He was seconded by Ways and Means and has a plan to get us the remaining 200 in Chairman Charlie Rangel, who told Congress the course of the year.’’ Cha´ vez proposed CONCLUSION OF MORNING Daily that ‘‘they don’t have the votes for it, sending the first ‘‘packet’’ of money BUSINESS it’s not going to come on the floor,’’ adding ‘‘through the black market in order to avoid that ‘‘what they [the White House] don’t un- problems.’’ He said more could be arranged The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- derstand it’s not the facts on the ground, it’s by giving the FARC a quota of petroleum to pore. Morning business is closed. sell abroad or gasoline to retail in Colombia the politics that’s in the air.’’ f Mr. Rangel is right about the politics. No or Venezuela. matter what U.S. strategic interests may be Cha´ vez then got to the plans that most in- CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET FOR in Colombia, this is an election year in terested him. He wanted the FARC to pro- pose collecting all of its hostages in the THE UNITED STATES GOVERN- America. And Democrats don’t want to upset MENT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009 their union and anti-trade allies. The prob- open, possibly in Venezuela, for a proposed lem is that the time available to pass any- exchange for 500 FARC prisoners in Colom- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- thing this year is growing short. The closer bian jails. Cha´ vez said he would travel to the pore. Under the previous order, the the election gets, the more leverage protec- area for a meeting with the FARC’s top lead- Senate will proceed to the concurrent er, Manuel Marulanda, and said the presi- tionists have to run out the clock on the budget resolution, which the clerk will Bush Presidency. The deal has the support of dents of Ecuador, Nicaragua and Bolivia would accompany him. Meanwhile, Cha´ vez report. a bipartisan majority in the Senate, and The bill clerk read as follows: probably also in the House. Sooner or later said he would set up a new diplomatic group, the White House will have to force the issue. composed of those countries and the FARC, A concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 70) Our guess is that Messrs. Baucus and Ran- plus Mexico, Brazil and Argentina, for the setting forth the congressional budget for gel understand the stakes and privately purpose of recognizing the FARC as a legiti- the United States Government for fiscal year favor the accord. The bottleneck is Speaker mate ‘‘belligerent’’ in Colombia and forcing 2009 and including the appropriate budgetary Nancy Pelosi, who is refusing to allow a vote Uribe into releasing its prisoners. levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 through under pressure from her left-wing Members. In ‘‘the early morning hours,’’ the FARC 2013. envoys recounted in a Feb. 9 e-mail, Cha´ vez These Democrats deride any link between Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I would Hugo Cha´ vez and trade as a ‘‘scare tactic,’’ reached the subject of whether the release of Ingrid Betancourt, a former Colombian pres- like to be informed when I have used 45 as if greater economic prosperity had no po- minutes. litical consequences. ‘‘President Bush’s re- idential candidate who is the FARC’s best- cent fear-mongering on trade shows just how known hostage, would complicate his plan to The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- desperate he is to deliver one final victory back a pro-FARC alternative to Uribe. ‘‘He pore. The Chair will so inform the Sen- for multinational corporations,’’ declared Il- invites the FARC to parcipate in a few ses- ator. linois Democrat Phil Hare, who is one of Ms. sions of analysis he has laid out for following Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, we Pelosi’s main trade policy deputies. the Colombian political situation,’’ the e- come to the floor with a budget resolu- mail concluded. tion that came out of the committee [From the Washington Post, Mar. 10, 2008] Assuming these documents are authentic— and it’s hard to believe that the cerebral and last week. I think it is important to set THE FARC’S GUARDIAN ANGEL calculating Uribe would knowingly hand the stage in recognition of the fiscal (By Jackson Diehl) over forgeries to the world media and the Or- condition of the country as we present Latin American nations and the Bush ad- ganization of American States—both the this budget. ministration spent the past week loudly ar- Bush administration and Latin Amerian gov- We have seen a dramatic deteriora- guing over what censure, if any, Colombia ernments will have fateful decisions to make tion in the budget situation under this ´ should face for a bombing raid that killed about Chavez. His reported actions are, first President. As we all know, he inherited one of the top leaders of the FARC terrorist of all, a violation of UN. Security Council group at a jungle camp in Ecuador. More Resolution 1373, passed in September 2001, a budget that was in surplus; in fact, a quietly, they are just beginning to consider a which prohibits all states from providing fi- budget that was estimated to have a far more serious and potentially explosive nancing or havens to terrorist organizations. future of surpluses so large that the question: What to do about the revelation More directly, the Colombian evidence would head of the Federal Reserve said we that Venezuelan President Hugo Cha´ vez be more than enough to justify a State De- were in danger of paying off the Fed- forged a strategic alliance with the FARC partment decision to cite Venezuela as a eral debt. That is a danger I would like aimed at Colombia’s democratic govern- state sponsor of terrorism. Once cited, Ven- to have. ment. ezuela would be subject to a number of auto- The President then took us on a fis- First reports of the documents recovered matic sanctions, some of which could com- from laptops at the FARC camp spoke of plicate its continuing export of oil to the cal course that has produced four of promises by Cha´ vez to deliver up to $300 mil- United States. A cutoff would temporarily the five largest deficits in our history. lion to a group renowned for kidnapping, inconvenience Americans—and cripple Ven- In fact, it may turn out to be five of drug trafficking and massacres of civilians; ezuela, which could have trouble selling its the largest deficits in our history, de- they also showed that Ecuadoran President heavy oil in other markets. pending on how events unfold this Rafel Correa was prepared to remove from For now, the Bush administration appears year. his own army officers who objected to the anxious to avoid this kind of confrontation. We can see in the previous years we FARC’s Ecuadoran bases. U.S. intelligence agencies are analyzing the But in their totality, the hundreds of pages Colombian evidence; officials say they will were having budget surpluses, and then of documents so far made public by Colombia share any conclusions with key Latin Amer- the President took us into deficit and paint an even more chilling picture. The raid ican governments. Yet those governments deepened those deficits until we appears to have preempted a breathtakingly have mostly shrunk from confronting Cha´ vez reached a record deficit in 2004 of $413

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.001 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1792 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 billion. Now we see those levels being These are housing starts in millions of responsibility by balancing the budget challenged in this year and perhaps units, and we can see that housing in 4 years and maintaining balance in next as well. starts have plunged, and plunged dra- the fifth. The result of these massive deficits is matically. We also have word that in- Mr. President, we also want to make this President has built a wall of debt ventories of unsold homes are growing, America safer by supporting the that is unprecedented. When President and growing dramatically; that fore- troops, by providing for veterans Bush came into office in 2000, the debt closures are running at a very alarm- health care, by protecting the home- at the end of his first year—we do not ing rate. And all of this signals trouble land, and rejecting the President’s cuts hold him responsible for his first year in the economy. in law enforcement. For example, he because he is working on the budget he There are other indicators as well. If eliminates the COPS Program. He cuts inherited—the debt stood at $5.8 tril- we look at business investment in this first responders’ grants by 78 percent. lion. At the end of last year, the debt economic period versus what we have We don’t think that makes sense, and had reached over $9 trillion. And by the seen in the nine previous recoveries we reject those cuts in this budget. end of 2009, which will be for the 8 since World War II, that growth of Mr. President, we now anticipate years for which he is responsible, we business investment is lagging in this that economic growth is going to slow will see the debt will have risen to over business cycle by 52 percent. That sharply in this year. We can see it all $10 trillion. This President will almost should tell us there is something amiss around us—more job layoffs announced have doubled the debt of the United in the economic policy of this adminis- today, dramatic slowing of the econ- States in just 8 years. tration. Something is not working. omy. Economists today are saying they Not only will he have almost doubled Certainly by comparison with previous believe our country is already in reces- the debt of the country, the gross debt, business cycles, the nine significant sion. Of course, we will not know for all of the money we owe, but he will business cycles since World War II, this several months, but it has all the ap- also have more than doubled what we one is showing much more weakness pearance of a reduction in economic owe to foreign nations. It took 42 than the previous nine. growth. The Congressional Budget Of- Presidents, all the Presidents pictured That is also true in job creation. If fice is forecasting for this year an eco- here, 224 years to run up a $1 trillion of we look at the nine previous business nomic growth of only 1.6 percent, down U.S. debt held abroad. This President cycles—that is the dotted red line on from the 2.5 percent pace over the has more than doubled that amount— this chart, and this business cycle is course of 2007 and 2.6 percent in 2006. much more than doubled that the black line—we are now 9.6 million And, by the way, these were already weak economic growth numbers. 2006 amount—in just 7 years. The result of private sector jobs short of the typical was weak, 2007 was weak, and CBO is that is we now owe Japan almost $600 business cycle, going all the way back expecting even weaker growth in 2008. billion. We owe China almost $500 bil- to World War II. lion. We owe the United Kingdom over There are a lot of alarm bells that So in this budget resolution we provide for a second stimulus package. We have $150 billion. We owe the oil exporters are ringing, warning signs to which we already had one stimulus package to almost $140 billion, and so it goes. need to pay attention and need to re- try to increase aggregate demand in That is a warning sign to all of us spond to in a budget. We have seen real the economy, to give a lift. We believe about the fiscal condition of our coun- median household income decline by it is prudent to provide the room in the try. The long-term projections are so- almost $1,000 under President Bush, budget for a second stimulus package, bering as well. Partly as a result of from $49,163 in 2000 to just over $48,000 some $35 billion of standby authority, this tremendous buildup of debt, the in 2006, the last year for which we have so if this economy does continue to value of the dollar has shrunk rather complete statistics. shed jobs and to weaken that we are dramatically. This chart shows the dol- Mr. President, these numbers cry out prepared to respond and prepared to re- lar against the Euro. It has gone down for a response. And the first way that spond in these ways: 40 percent since 2002. Anybody who has we respond is in a budget because the Housing relief. We have legislation traveled has seen that in what they budget sets the policy priorities for the on the floor now to provide relief for buy abroad. We see it in the prices of coming year. And we have attempted what is happening in the housing mar- goods that are being imported. We also to do that in this budget by empha- ket. That package is a $16 billion or $17 see it in terms of the kinds of reactions sizing strengthening the economy and billion package that could be accom- we are getting in the marketplace to creating jobs by doing the following: modated in this $35 billion of standby further American indebtedness. We are investing in energy, education, and in- stimulus relief. hearing warnings from people who are frastructure. Also, we may need to extend unem- saying: United States, you have to get Those are the top three priorities to ployment insurance and provide for ad- your fiscal house in order. You cannot help strengthen the economy. Invest in ditional funding for food stamps or per- keep running up these massive debts energy. Why? To reduce our depend- haps State fiscal relief. We know 21 of and deficits. ence on foreign oil. We are now spend- the States are increasingly in difficult We see that during this period of the ing $1 billion a day buying foreign oil. financial straits, so we may need to ex- Bush administration that economic How much better off would our country tend some relief to them. growth has lagged previous recoveries. be, how much stronger would the econ- This budget also provides room for We have gone back and looked at all of omy be if we were generating our own additional funding for low-income the major recoveries since World War energy rather than importing it from heating assistance and the WIC Pro- II. There have been nine previous re- around the world? gram, the women, infant, and chil- coveries. At the same point in the busi- So part of this budget is designed to dren’s feeding program, and/or infra- ness cycle, the economy had typically reduce our dependence on foreign en- structure spending in 2008. grown at an average pace of 3.4 percent ergy and to strengthen our education When we did the last stimulus pro- a year during those previous recov- and our job training because if we are gram, we asked the agencies of the eries. not the best educated and best trained, Government if they had construction Look at what is happening here. In we are not going to command the projects that were ready to go—where this recovery, the average GDP growth strongest economy for very long. the engineering has been done, the de- is only 2.5 percent, well short of what Also, to build our infrastructure. We sign has been done, the land acquisi- we have seen at the same point in pre- all remember the incredible sight of tion is finished—and all they need is vious economic cycles. the 35–W bridge collapsing last year. I money to begin construction and to Now we have a new element to con- think we all recognize that our air- begin hiring people. And they told us, sider, and that is a housing slump with ports, our rail lines, our highways and yes, they do have projects like that. So new home building falling dramati- bridges need serious investment if we we have provided for taking up some of cally. We have seen this pattern which are going to be competitive globally. those projects as part of the stimulus comes to us from the Census Bureau, We also need to expand health cov- package. U.S. Department of Commerce. This is erage for our children, provide tax cuts Why? Because we know in road build- monthly data through January 2008. for the middle class, and restore fiscal ing, highway construction, and bridge

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.015 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1793 construction that for every $1 billion, So to address this continuing prob- to have to be strengthened and im- there are about 45,000 jobs created. lem of energy dependence, we are pro- proved. This budget begins the process. And, Mr. President, we think it is very posing in this budget to invest in en- It begins the process by creating a re- important that standby authority be ergy, to create green jobs, to reduce serve fund to allow for major infra- ready to go if indeed this economy our dependence on foreign energy, to structure legislation. weakens further. strengthen our economy, and to help We have had a group of the country’s We also provide for tax relief in this with high home heating costs. We have business leaders come to us and tell us budget resolution: the alternative min- to do that a package of energy tax in- they have a plan they think could gen- imum tax. If something is not done, it centives of over $13 billion, $3.5 billion erate a multiplier effect in terms of will affect 20 million more American over the President’s budget in discre- matching public sector investment families this year—the alternative tionary funding for energy, and an en- with private sector investment to build minimum tax. So we provide an addi- ergy reserve fund for investing in clean infrastructure in this country. We have tional year’s relief from that levy. energy and the environment. created a reserve fund to allow for the We also provide the energy tax incen- We all know there are global climate adoption of such legislation if the com- tives necessary to reduce our depend- change initiatives coming before Con- mittees of jurisdiction proceed, and if ence on foreign oil, education tax in- gress. If any of those are adopted, we they pay for it, if they provide offsets centives to make college more afford- are going to need a reserve fund like for it. able for American families, and we pro- this to prepare for it. We also provide $3.9 billion more vide the stimulus package, where I pre- Education is also a great challenge to than the President for key discre- viously described some of the provi- us. We see from the National Science tionary transportation accounts in sions, and they help the housing indus- Foundation a chart that compares 2009, and we provide another $6.5 billion try. Our tax provisions would fit in what is happening to bachelor’s degrees to fully fund highways, fully fund tran- that $35 billion package; for example, in engineering in the thousands in sit, increase funding for airport im- extending net operating loss provisions China versus what is happening here. provement, and fund ready-to-go infra- to home building companies so they You can see we are pretty well flat, structure projects. aren’t buffeted by further write-downs with about 75,000 engineers a year Those are projects that are ready to of their assets at the worst possible being produced. But look what has hap- be built; they only lack the money. We time. pened in China. China is now up to a also fix the highway trust fund short- And, of course, the important tax ex- rate of producing more than 350,000 en- fall that exists. I think that is roughly tenders, those permanent provisions gineers a year. That should serve as an- $1.4 billion that needs to be dealt with. that are about to expire that provide other alarm to us because we know en- We not only have challenges and op- for the research and development cred- gineering is critical to economic portunities in education and energy it, the wind energy credit, and the like, growth. And if you are producing many and infrastructure, but we also have those are provided for in this budget more engineers, you are laying the them in health care. We can see the resolution as well. foundation for stronger economic number of uninsured children in our The first amendment that will be of- growth in the years ahead. country has jumped by 700,000 just in fered to this budget will be to extend I chose that as just one example. We the year 2006. We went from 8.7 million the middle-class tax provisions pre- know there are many others where we uninsured children to 9.4 million. So viously enacted. Those provisions are face global competition for doing the this budget seeks to make wise and about to expire, and we want to extend best job of educating our young people. careful investment there to improve them. Those are the marriage penalty So this budget resolution invests in health care, to expand coverage, to in- relief, the child tax credit, and the 10- education. It does it to generate eco- crease health research, and to promote percent bracket. There is room in this nomic growth and jobs, to prepare the food and drug safety. We do that by budget to extend them all and still bal- workforce to compete in the global again providing for a reserve fund that ance the budget in 4 years. economy, and to make college more af- will allow the $35 billion children’s There is also room in this budget for fordable and to improve student health insurance compromise that was estate tax reform along the lines of achievement. adopted last year but vetoed by the what we advocated last year. As you We seek to do that by providing some President to once again proceed this know, we faced this unusual situation $13 billion in education tax cuts, some year. where the exemption per person, the $5.7 billion in funding over the Presi- We also provided $4.4 billion over the $3.5 million next year but the year dent’s budget in discretionary money President’s budget in discretionary after, in 2010, there will be no estate for the Department of Education and funding for health and a reserve fund tax. In 2011, the estate tax comes back Head Start, and a $2 billion education to address the cut in Medicare physi- with only $1 million per person exemp- reserve fund for school construction cian payments and make other im- tions. So we provide the continuation and higher education reauthorization. provements to Medicare. We know the of the $3.5 million exemption per per- But it doesn’t end with energy and doctors of the country are scheduled son and have that indexed for inflation. education, Mr. President. It also ex- for a very sharp cut in Medicare pay- Mr. President, there is not an Amer- tends to the challenges in infrastruc- ments. I think that is rejected here vir- ican family who doesn’t know what is ture. We all remember this very strik- tually universally. But we have to do happening to gas prices. I was just ing picture from last year when the something about it. We provided a re- talking to my staff this morning about bridge on 35–W collapsed between Min- serve fund to address that, so later this what they are experiencing. One of my neapolis and St. Paul. That is a bridge year Congress will be able to act. staff—who was caught up in a horren- I traveled over many times when my The budget resolution also provides dous traffic jam yesterday coming wife was in medical school at the Uni- $3.2 billion above the President’s for from Baltimore and took 21⁄2 hours to versity of Minnesota, and I think all of our veterans. We know that veterans get here—filled up, and it cost $3.18 a us, our hearts went out to those people. funding in the President’s budget is gallon. I filled up the other day, and it Imagine the horror of driving home $44.9 billion. We have provided $48.2 bil- was over $3.20 a gallon. There are some from work and having the bridge fall lion in funding for our veterans. This is projections now that gas is going to go out from under you. We know there focused on veteran health care, pri- to $4 a gallon. Look what is happening were lives lost and people injured. That marily in terms of veterans because we just since 2001 when gas was less than should not happen. That should not all recognize that is an area in which $1.50. It has more than doubled in just happen anywhere in America. It we simply must do better if we are those 7 years, and we see it continuing shouldn’t happen anywhere in the going to keep the commitment that to jump. I am told oil prices today are world. was made to our veterans. also rising on world markets. There Mr. President, we know there are de- In terms of war funding and defense was some speculation that oil might ficiencies in the infrastructure funding funding, we match the President’s re- reach $108 a barrel today on the world for highways, for bridges, for airports, quest. He has asked for $2.9 trillion market. and for rail, and all of those are going over the next 5 years, and we matched

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.016 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1794 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 that amount in this budget—$2.9 tril- would say is necessary if we are going But it is not just the tax gap, it is lion. to address these problems of deficit and also those offshore tax havens that are The budget also provides $2.3 billion debt. The first thing we have to do is proliferating and costing us a lot of more than the President’s budget for bring down the deficit, and this budget money. There is a report from the Per- law enforcement and first responders. seeks to do that. manent Subcommittee on Investiga- This is an area which I find utterly in- We also, for this year, for 2009—this tions from February of last year. This explicable in the President’s budget. shows the overall spending difference is what they said: for this year. I have showed the spend- President Bush sent this Congress a Experts have estimated that the total loss budget that eliminates the COPS Pro- ing comparison for 5 years showing to the Treasury from offshore tax evasion gram—eliminated it. He did not just that we are spending 2.2 percent more, alone approaches $100 billion per year, in- cut it, he eliminated it. The COPS Pro- but I think it is also important to look cluding $40 to $70 billion from individuals gram has put 100,000 police officers on at 2009, the first year of this 5-year and another $30 billion from corporations en- the streets in this country, put over 250 budget, on overall spending. We are gaging in offshore tax evasion. Abusive tax police officers on the street in my spending 1 percent more than the shelters add tens of billions of dollars more. State of North Dakota. Why the Presi- President—1 percent more. Shame on us for allowing this kind of dent would eliminate the COPS Pro- Some say: Well, you should not spend abuse to occur. Let me say, there have gram eludes me. more than the President did. But the been some in this Chamber who have He has also proposed cutting the first problem is, he had cuts that I do not made a serious effort to close this kind responder grants; that is for emergency think are broadly embraced by the of scam down, and I would be the first medical personnel, that is for our fire- American people. I do not think they to recognize the ranking member of the think we should eliminate the COPS fighters and our other first responders. Finance Committee, Senator GRASSLEY He has proposed cutting these grants 78 Program. I do not think they think we of Iowa, who has been very serious should eliminate weatherization. I do percent. We have rejected those cuts in about going after not only abusive tax not think they believe we should cut this budget at a cost of $2.3 billion. shelters but offshore tax havens. the grants to first responders, our While we have restored funding in Here is an example of what is going emergency personnel, by 78 percent. I certain key priority areas and made on. There is a little five-story building targeted investments in reducing our do not think the American people think we should fail to invest in reduc- in the Cayman Islands called Ugland energy dependence and promoting edu- ing our dependence on foreign energy. I House, a nice little building; 12,748 cation and in building our infrastruc- do not think that is what the American companies call it home. Mr. President, ture, we have also sought to be fiscally people want. I do not think they be- 12,748 companies say they are doing responsible by balancing the budget by lieve we should continue to dramati- business out of this little five-story the fourth year and maintaining bal- cally underfund infrastructure, which building. Can you imagine having 12,000 ance in the fifth. leads to bridges collapsing in our coun- companies conducting business out of Those are the numbers that are in try. So we have spent more than the that little building? Of course they are the budget resolution, but this is be- President—in total for 2009, 1 percent not conducting business; the only busi- fore we extend the middle-class tax more. That 1 percent will go to those ness they are conducting is monkey cuts. When we extend the middle-class high-priority areas of energy, edu- business because what they are doing is tax cuts, these numbers will drop dra- cation, and infrastructure. cheating all of the rest of us who pay matically, but we will still be in sur- On the revenue side, this is the com- our taxes. They are engaged in very plus, we will still be balancing by 2012, parison when the middle-class tax cuts ambitious tax scams and tax schemes by the fourth year, and be maintaining are extended. We will have 2.6 percent to avoid paying what they owe in this balance in the fifth. But we do think it more revenue than in the President’s country. is critically important to extend the budget—2.6 percent more revenue than Here is a picture of a building that middle-class tax cuts and to reform the in the President’s budget. was in the Boston Globe. Let’s put up estate tax, which previous legislation Now, this shows that difference in the Boston Globe story. This was a has left in a chaotic state, I think revenue. The President’s budget has building that is also in the Cayman Is- would be a fair way to say it. $15.2 trillion over the 5 years, and our lands where shell companies allowed We also, under this budget resolu- budget is $15.6 trillion—a 2.6-percent KBR to avoid Medicare and Social Se- tion, bring down the debt as a share of difference. Because we have more rev- curity deductions. gross domestic product each and every enue, of course, we have the ability to This story says: year. Again, this is before the amend- fund in those high-priority areas but Kellogg, Brown and Root, the nation’s top ment to extend the middle-class tax still balance the budget in the fourth cuts, but you will see the same pattern contractor, and until last year a year and maintain balance in the fifth. subsidiary of Halliburton, has avoided pay- after we extend the middle-class tax According to the Congressional Budget ing hundreds of millions of dollars in Medi- cuts—the debt as a share of GDP going Office, the President’s budget does bal- care and Social Security taxes by hiring down each and every year of the 5 ance in the fourth year but then workers through shell companies based in years—because we think that is criti- promptly falls back out of balance in this tropical tax haven. cally important for the long-term eco- the fifth year. Our budget not only bal- So what they were doing is hiring nomic health of the country. ances by the fourth year but stays in people paid for by American taxpayers, This is a comparison of spending balance in the fifth. hiring them for contracts, and they under the resolution and the Presi- Now, this is where we get into the were running them through these shell dent’s budget. The red line is the Presi- question of, Well, how do you come up operations down in the Cayman Is- dent’s spending line, the green line is with 2.6 percent more revenue than the lands, and by doing that they were ours. You can see there is very little President has? I believe you can come avoiding paying their Medicare and So- difference. That is a difference of 2.1 up with the 2.6-percent more revenue cial Security taxes to this country and percent in overall spending over the 5 than the President has by looking at saved hundreds of millions of dollars, years. So we do have some additional three areas: the tax gap—that is the according to this story in the Boston spending to meet these priorities in difference between what is owed and Globe from March 6 of this year. This education and energy and infrastruc- what is paid. The Internal Revenue is just days ago that this story ap- ture and reducing the cuts the Presi- Service tells us that for 2001 the tax peared. dent proposed for law enforcement, gap was over $300 billion; that is, the They point out: weatherization, and other priorities. vast majority of us pay what we owe, Spending as a share of GDP under the but some do not. Before we ask for a More than 21,000 people working for KBR resolution goes down each and every in Iraq, including 10,000 Americans, are listed tax increase from anyone, I think we as employees of two companies that exist in year, from 20.8 percent of GDP in 2009 ought to go to those who are not pay- a computer file on the fourth floor of a build- to 19 percent of GDP in 2013, applying ing what they owe. Now, I think that is ing on a palm-studded boulevard here in the the spending discipline that I think is the first thing we ought to do before we Caribbean. Neither company has an office or necessary, that I think most of us ask for a tax increase from anyone. phone number in the Cayman Islands.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.017 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1795 They do not even have a phone num- I think the President has it entirely important to any strategy to contain ber. They do not even have a real of- wrong. Those are not tax increases. burgeoning deficits and debt. fice. What they have is a scam. This is Those are just making those folks pay Before yielding the floor, I want to the kind of scam we ought to shut what the rest of us are already paying. ask our colleagues for their coopera- down. In this budget we provide a number tion. This is going to be an especially Here is the building, a very nice of enforcement mechanisms to try to challenging budget. The numbers are building. On the fourth floor of this help restore some fiscal discipline. We very close on the two sides. We have building, apparently 21,000 people are have discretionary caps for 2008 and two Presidential candidates on this supposedly employed, at least for the 2009. We maintain a strong pay-go rule. side. They have a Presidential can- purpose of records. We have a point of order against long- didate on the other side. We know they Now, it does not stop there. This is a term deficit increases. We allow rec- may not be here for all of the delibera- story from late last month in the New onciliation for deficit reduction only, tions. That means we are going to have York Times: and we have a point of order against to coordinate and cooperate. We also U.S. among countries investigating tax mandatory spending on an appropria- have a Member on our side who is ill. evasion. tions bill. These are important enforce- That means we will have a special This is in Liechtenstein. I have never ment mechanisms that ought to be challenge getting the budget done this been to Liechtenstein. I am sure it is a part of any budget resolution. They are year, but we must do it. We must get it lovely place. But the Internal Revenue part of ours. I hope they are adopted by done. I will be asking for all of our col- Service says: my colleagues. leagues’ cooperation as we proceed. It was beginning enforcement action Finally, this budget resolution has I yield the floor. against more than 100 U.S. taxpayers on sus- provisions addressing long-term chal- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. picion of evading taxes through investments lenges. More daunting than any of our CARDIN). The Senator from Iowa. in Liechtenstein. short-term problems is where this is all Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, the They have the Deputy Director of the headed. We can’t pay our bills now; chairman spoke about his budget. For Center for Tax Policy and Administra- that is, before the baby boomers retire. Senator GREGG, the ranking member of tion at the OECD saying Liechtenstein What is going to happen then? What is the Budget Committee, I would like to is the tip of the iceberg. Indeed, it is. going to happen to the commitments start this debate on the Republican This kind of scam is going on down in that have been made in Social Security side. Since we are on the budget resolu- the Cayman Islands, going on in Liech- and Medicare? What is going to happen tion, Senator GREGG would usually tenstein, going on in other tax haven with this tremendous imbalance be- open debate for our side of the aisle. He places, but it is also happening with tween spending and revenue? We have wanted to take the lead today but has abusive tax shelters. Last year, I offered these three elements as part of a necessary conflict in his schedule. He showed pictures of European sewer sys- an approach, understanding that the asked me to substitute, and I am tems. People might ask: What does a larger plan to deal with our fiscal prob- pleased to do so. Senator GREGG will be European sewer system have to do with lems is going to have to come in some here tomorrow to give what is nor- revenue in the United States? It turns sort of special process, a process that mally the opening statement by the out it has a lot to do with it because it Senator GREGG and I have offered our senior member of the Budget Com- turns out U.S. companies are buying colleagues to create a task force with mittee on the Republican side. European sewer systems. Later on in 16 Members—eight Democrats, eight I am going to first talk about the this debate I will show a picture of one Republicans—and ask them to come process and recent history of the Sen- of those. It may not be the most wel- back with a plan as to how to deal with ate budget resolutions. Almost all of come picture on the Senate floor, of a long-term imbalances. the revenue side of the budget is Fi- European sewer system, but, nonethe- In this resolution, we have compara- nance Committee jurisdiction. Most of less, this is part of an incredible scam tive effectiveness reserve fund and cap the spending side of the budget is also that is going on in which U.S. compa- adjustment to deal with health care. Finance Committee jurisdiction. For nies buy European sewer systems, One of the things we know is that lots those of us who sit on the Finance write them off on their books in the of different health modalities are being Committee, we need to pay very care- United States for tax purposes, and used across the country to address ill- ful attention to the budget. Chairman lease them back to the European cities ness. Some of them work and some CONRAD, along with Senator WYDEN of that built them in the first place. That don’t. We have to know which ones Oregon and Senator STABENOW of should not be allowed. That is not fair work. Michigan, are all Finance Committee to the rest of us who pay what we owe. Second, we have program integrity Democrats. This Senator, along with Last year, when we went after some initiatives to crack down on waste, Senators BUNNING, CRAPO, and ENSIGN of these scams, the President threat- fraud, and abuse in Social Security and are all Finance Committee Repub- ened a veto. He said that would be a Medicare. In fact, I received a letter licans. tax increase. I guess it would be a tax from the Secretary of Health, Sec- When I was Finance chairman for increase on those who are getting away retary Leavitt, thanking us for the part of the year 2001 and all of the without paying what they fairly owe, program integrity funds that we have years 2003 through 2006, there was co- but I don’t consider it a tax increase to included so that he can continue his ordination regarding the fiscal re- make people pay what they already important investigations to shut down sources and fiscal demands on the Fi- owe. I don’t consider it a tax increase these Medicare fraud operations that nance Committee. That coordination to shut down a tax scam. I don’t con- he found in Florida and other parts of occurred with respect to revenue lev- sider it a tax increase to shut down the country last year and that he is els, spending levels, and reconciliation these abusive tax shelters. continuing to crackdown on. instructions. Did we always agree over We tried to codify economic sub- He found a circumstance in which those years? The answer is no. Did we stance, prohibiting transactions with you go to these strip malls, and half of compromise when we had disagree- no economic rationale, done solely to the offices in the strip malls are front ments? The answer is most often yes. evade taxes. We tried to shut down organizations collecting Medicare pay- We did have some different priorities, schemes to lease foreign subway and ments. You go to the door and nobody but we worked through those dif- sewer systems and depreciate assets. is there during the day, during work ferences during this committee’s budg- We tried to end deferral of offshore time. They are just billing mills. They et process. We came up with com- compensation by hedge fund managers are sending out Medicare bills. Good- promises that largely held together. I trying to evade current taxation. We ness knows if any service is actually might add, those compromises and the tried to expand broker reporting. We being extended or not. But these are levels regarding revenue spending and tried to tax people who use expatria- scams that are operating that need to reconciliation instructions were in tion to evade taxes. Over and over the be shut down. sync with the administration. My point President said: No, I will have to veto We also have a point of order against is that we hashed out the fiscal dif- because that would be a tax increase. long-term deficit increases which is ferences in the Budget Committee and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.018 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1796 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 on the Senate floor. The committee three vantage points. It is kind of like very large tax increase over the next and floor debate, amendment votes, we farmers do before planting season. fiscal year. My staff calculates that tax both pro and con, made a very real dif- We look at the condition of the soil and increase to be roughly $150 billion. ference. The product of that process, prospects of various crops. The first The definition of ‘‘fiscal responsi- the budget resolution that we will vote vantage point will be looking at what bility’’ under this budget, over the fis- on as the last vote probably this week, the budget purports to do. From this cal year, is higher spending of $22 bil- the product made a real difference. angle, I am going to look at what the lion and higher taxes of $150 billion. Is Those budget resolutions, though not Democratic leadership says the budget that a legitimate fiscal goal? Is that perfect, provided me, while I was chair- is designed to do and whether those the notion of fiscal responsibility the man of the Finance Committee, with purposes make sense from a fiscal American people were looking for when the budget resources to deal with the standpoint. The second vantage point they turned congressional power over policy demands on the Finance Com- will be looking at how well the budget to the Democrats in November 2006? mittee. Most often, I used these re- carries out its stated purpose. The Did we in Congress misread those re- sources to guide the Finance Com- third vantage point will be looking at sults? Did the people really want us to mittee, usually in a bipartisan manner, what the reconciliation would mean for increase spending and to raise taxes? to deal with short-term, midterm, and the Senate. I will address the reconcili- Now, that is not what I am hearing even long-term problems. Last year ation in a separate speech later. I be- from back home. What I heard from was different. After the people spoke in lieve I will wait until tomorrow to do folks across Iowa was: Rein in spend- the November 2006 elections, control of that. ing. Live within your means. the Senate changed from Republican to Let’s start off with the first question: It seems to me if you are going to as- Democrat, and the budget resolution What does the Democratic leadership sume the mantle of fiscal discipline, was basically a Democratic resolution. say this budget is designed to do? you ought to treat a dollar of new tax This year we see some repetition of Then, after stating what they say it relief the same as a dollar of new last year’s dramatically different fiscal does, we need to look at the fiscal con- spending. path. As with the rest of the Budget sequences of that policy. What do I mean by ‘‘new spending?’’ Committee Republicans, I learned The budget’s proponents claim it is I mean spending above the Congres- about this resolution for the first time all about fiscal responsibility. There sional Budget Office baseline. And when the chairman of the Budget Com- are two basic parts to the Federal ledg- what do I mean by ‘‘new tax relief?’’ I mittee put the markup document be- er: the revenue part and the spending mean new tax policy that loses rev- fore the committee. Committee Demo- part. If we spend more than we take in, enue. I do not mean extension of exist- crats were consulted extensively, along then the Treasury sells more debt. This ing tax policy. with the Democratic caucus. Most of has been the pattern of much of the We see the same pattern over the 5- the Republicans’ knowledge prior to post-World War II period. If we spend year period of this budget. Over 5 markup was derived from what we read less than we take in, then the Treasury years, the tax hike and the spending in the press. I don’t say this to be crit- buys back debt. increases grow exponentially. On the ical of the Democratic leadership. It is When we look at this budget over the spending side, discretionary spending unfortunate but perhaps necessary that short term, it contains a material in- grows by $211 billion. When you throw budgets are usually partisan docu- crease in spending. Over the next fiscal in the special reserve funds, you can ments. So I would say, with all due re- year, the discretionary spending rises add another $300 billion in new spend- spect to the chairman, the chairman’s by 9 percent over last year’s spending. ing on top of that. mark was developed exclusively by Now, how many Americans got a 9- Over the 5 years, the budget assumes Democrats in a partisan fashion. percent raise? How many American a dramatic tax increase—at least $1.2 Republicans, during committee families raised their discretionary trillion. In 2011, the bipartisan tax re- markup, used that markup to educate household spending by 9 percent? On lief plans of 2001 and 2003 will expire. ourselves, others on the other side, and the spending side of the ledger, spend- Some folks will call these provisions the public. We asked questions. I pur- ing, then, goes up, and I say fairly dra- the Bush tax cuts. It is true President sued questions about how this budget matically. You would think proponents Bush signed both bills, but the bipar- deals with the resources and demands of fiscal responsibility would be look- tisan compromises occurred in the Fi- that fall on Senator BAUCUS and me in ing at spending cuts, not 9 percent in- nance Committee. In 2011, President our respective roles as chairman and creases. Bush will have been gone from office by ranking member of the Finance Com- It is a different story on the other more than 2 years. He will probably be mittee. We offered a relatively small side of the ledger, the revenue side. Let hanging around his ranch in Crawford, number of amendments. Most were de- me start off with one smidgeon of good TX. You can call this package of tax feated; some accepted. news on the revenue side in this budget relief for virtually every American the On reforming farm program payment resolution. The alternative minimum Bush tax cuts, but for the taxpayer, if limits, I am pleased to say Senator AL- tax patch expired the first day of this we let them expire, it will be a big tax LARD’s amendment prevailed on a roll- year. If that patch is not addressed, 25 increase, and it will be a big tax in- call vote. That amendment improved million families, most of them middle- crease that will happen without even a this resolution, though not enough to income families, would pay an average vote of Congress. gain the support of Senator ALLARD, of at least $2,000 in AMT this year. The So I have a couple charts in the this Senator, or any other Republicans. chairman reduced the revenue baseline Chamber. The charts use the analogy Before I discuss the substance of the by $62 billion, which is a revenue loss of a brick wall to show the ugly tax in- budget, I want to start off by comple- from extending that patch. All middle- creases Americans are going to face. menting the chairman of the com- income Americans ought to thank the On this chart, you see a family of mittee and his staff. They conducted chairman of the Budget Committee— four. That is the average American the markup in a professional manner. and I thank him on the Senate floor family. Here is the husband, his wife, The Democratic and Republican mem- right now—for that provision. and two children. The family makes bers have sharp, well-intentioned rea- Unfortunately, for years beyond 2008, $50,000 a year in income. That is right sons for coming down in different pay-go still applies, so there is a big about the national median household places on the budget resolution. We Senate hurdle built into this budget to income today. For example, the Census were able to debate those differences in patching the alternative minimum tax Bureau stated, for 2006, the national a full and fair manner. in years beyond 2008. median household income was $48,200. I know if Senator GREGG were here The rest of current law expired or ex- Under the Democratic leadership’s speaking today, he would make these piring tax relief provisions will need to budget, this family will face a tax in- points as well. We are at the Senate be offset with other tax increases. crease of $2,300 per year. You see the floor stage of the budget on process. There are also several bipartisan tax figure $2,300 for that family of four. What I would like to do is step back bills that would require offsetting tax That is a loss in their paycheck of and take a look at the budget from increases under this budget. That is a about $200 per month. It is a hit on

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.020 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1797 their yearly budget of $2,300. Where I amendment, millions of these low-in- course, after the budget conference re- am from, the Midwest—or anyplace in come taxpayers, especially senior citi- port was agreed to, all talk and action this country, I will bet—that is still a zens, will pay a 10-percent rate on cap- around the amendment ceased. So I lot of money. ital gains and could pay as high as a 15- wouldn’t put much stock in the follow- Now, I have another example. This percent rate on dividends. through on the Baucus amendment, next chart has the same brick wall but I have a couple charts to show how and things can only get worse for mid- a different family: a single mom with wide the dividend and capital gains tax dle-income taxpayers beyond that two kids. Here we have a person earn- increases would be. The chart that is point. ing about $30,000 a year. In 2011, under up now deals with just dividends. It This budget asks a lot of the tax- this budget, she and her family run shows the number of taxpayers claim- paying population—about $1.2 trillion straight into that brick wall—that ing dividend income. Nationally, over worth of a lot being asked of taxpayers. brick tax wall. That is a brick wall of 24 million families and individuals re- That is a big chunk on the revenues about $1,100 per year of taxes. That is ported dividend income—24 million ledger. Compare that to what is going almost $100 a month out of this fam- Americans. There are 24 million Ameri- on on the spending side of the ledger. ily’s budget. cans, all of whom you are not going to The answer is $211 billion more spend- So when you hear folks rail against call filthy rich. Very few of them you ing on the discretionary side. Nothing the 2001 and 2003 bipartisan tax relief are going to call filthy rich. is proposed to rein in any entitlement plans, you will hear a lot of talk about In my State of Iowa, for instance, spending. If the definition of fiscal re- millionaires, you will hear a lot of talk over 299,000 families and individuals sponsibility is higher spending, no enti- about the death tax, but you will not claimed dividend income on their re- tlement savings, and dramatically hear the critics talk about these two turns. Now, there are not 299,000 mil- higher taxes, then this budget is fis- families—a family of four: husband, lionaire families or even 299,000 people cally responsible. Keep in mind that wife, and two children; or a single in Iowa you can call filthy rich. while ramping up $1.2 trillion on the mother with two children. You will not As to capital gains, you can see the taxpayers, the budget spends $775 bil- hear these critics—almost all of whom numbers not only for my State of Iowa, lion of the Social Security surplus and voted against these two tax bills—con- but you can see the numbers for all the grows the gross Federal debt by $2 tril- sider these two families. other States in the United States. You lion. Now, those on the other side will can see them for the entire United For those on our side, this budget is point to the Baucus amendment that States up there on the chart. Nation- not fiscally responsible. We don’t agree will be upcoming—at least we have ally, we are talking about over 9 mil- that the definition of fiscal responsi- heard about the Baucus amendment— lion families and individuals. In Iowa, bility is higher spending, no entitle- as the answer to the tax increases that we are talking about 127,000 families ment savings, and dramatically higher I have pointed out. Isn’t it ironic that and individuals when it comes to cap- taxes. For those of us on the Repub- my friend, our chairman, my partner ital gains. lican side of the aisle, you can’t solve from the 2001 tax relief bill, and several I want to emphasize, I went from all fiscal problems just on the tax side other tax relief bills, is the author of dividends to capital gains. The chart of the ledger. this key amendment? has changed to tell you what there is Now I wish to go to the second part The Senator from Montana, my in each of the respective States on cap- of my discussion and annualize the tax friend, Mr. BAUCUS, took a lot of heat ital gains. side of the budget. I am looking at how for working with me in a bipartisan There are many marginal rates, this budget will carry out its objec- fashion in 2001. He took a lot of heat other than the top rate, that would rise tives. from people in his caucus, quite frank- if this budget stands, even with the Let’s take a look at the short term. ly. Many on the other side who fought Baucus amendment. The 25-percent By the short term, I am referring to him and that bill were also denying tax rate, which for 2007 starts at $31,850 for the fiscal year of the budget, and this increases in last year’s budget. So they singles and $63,700 for married couples, chart here is for the fiscal year. This is now turn to his amendment—this up- would rise 3 percentage points to 28 the first fiscal year. That is the first coming amendment—as they did last percent. The 28-percent rate, which for fiscal year out of five fiscal years. year, to try to deflect the tax increase 2007 starts at $77,100 for singles and A lot of people from farm country get charge because there is a real charge in $128,500 for married couples, would rise their water from wells. When the well what is in this budget. If something is 3 percentage points to 31 percent. The water is low, you can either dig it deep- not done to stop tax increases, they are 33-percent rate, which for 2007 starts at er, cut back water use, or pay to have going to happen automatically. And $160,850 for singles and $198,850 for mar- the water trucked in. This well shows don’t let anybody tell me something ried couples, would go up to 36 percent. the extra demands on the revenue side cannot be done about it. The top rate would rise from the cur- of the budget. That is the bucket: $152 At Budget markup, we were told the rent 35 percent level to 39.6 percent. billion. These demands reflect the ex- Baucus amendment would contain To sum up, even with the Baucus tenders for this year and next year. enough revenue room—$323 billion—to amendment—even with the Baucus The bucket contains next year’s AMT accommodate extension of several amendment added to this budget, there patch because under this budget, that components of the bipartisan tax relief would be marginal rate increases on has to be offset. The bucket also covers plans that go back to 2001. We were millions of taxpayers, and not millions pending bipartisan tax legislation, and told the 10-percent bracket, the mar- of millionaire taxpayers. Those mar- that is bipartisan because it is gen- riage penalty, the child tax credit, and ginal rate increases would go up, erally agreed that we ought to do some some death tax relief would be covered. whether it is the 28 percent to 31 per- of this tax legislation. All of these There were provisions that were not cent or the 33 percent to 36 percent or items are listed on the chart for my intended to be covered. The excluded what have you. Those marginal rate in- colleagues to add up. provisions were the lower rates for cap- creases would reach taxpayers with in- The water in the well represents ital gains and dividends and other mar- comes as low as $31,850 for singles and known, specified, and scored revenue- ginal rate reductions. $63,700 for married couples, and these raising proposals supported by the Sen- Now, some on the other side will de- people are not filthy rich. ate Democratic caucus. Included are scribe this excluded group—excluded Now, what I just described is accu- $35 billion in Finance Committee-ap- from the Baucus amendment—as top- rate only if the Democratic leadership proved offsets and $29 billion that has rate taxpayers and other high-income intends to follow the letter and spirit been approved elsewhere. That total, people. Now, I hope you will not believe of the Baucus amendment. If you look then, is the $61 billion you see at the it. The facts are otherwise. at last year’s track record, the House bottom of the well. Low-income folks, including millions neutered the effect of the amendment When you net the offsets against the of seniors, pay no tax on their dividend in the conference agreement. They cre- demands, you find an offset shortfall of or capital gains income. If this budget ated a Rube Goldberg type of mecha- $91 billion. Somehow, you have to find stands, even with Senator BAUCUS’s nism to impede the amendment. Of a way to fill up that well if you are

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.024 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1798 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 going to offset everything where there billion net annually is not the same Tax scores that proposal as actually is a bipartisan agreement of what thing as a revenue estimate. They have losing revenue. ought to be offset. The upshot of the cautioned us to be careful about de- As we work our way further down the analysis in this chart is that known signing tax gap closure measures that inverted pyramid that I call the tax offsets cover only about 40 percent of are driven by unrealistic revenue tar- gap reality check, we total up enacted the revenue needed to carry out pend- gets in unrealistic timeframes. tax gap provisions. During the fiscal ing time-sensitive tax legislation that When we went through the tax gap year of the new majority, we find $572 there is a great deal of bipartisan sup- discussion last year, these points were million of enacted tax gap provisions. port for and bipartisan agreement that disputed by some on the other side. The enacted provisions represent two- it ought to pass and some of it ought to With a Senate Democratic majority in tenths of 1 percent of that great big, gi- be passing very shortly. place for over a year, we may have a gantic figure that we call tax gaps— Now, some on the other side will bit of a yardstick to use to see just how just two-tenths of 1 percent. Now, that probably respond with three counter- much revenue can come in. Let’s take ought to give anybody pause when you points, so I want to anticipate that— a look at the claims on tax gap revenue are putting this year’s budget together not that I am going to stop them from and how we have done. and you are anticipating a lot of responding. The first will be that the We have three charts that I hope will money coming in from this source. committee tax staffs will find the addi- help us understand. The first chart is What experience we have had hasn’t tional $91 billion that is needed to fill the tax gap reality check. My col- produced a lot of revenue. up the well. The second will be a claim leagues can see it here. We see some Let’s look at the demands on the tax that offshore shelter activity is a vast, big numbers. This chart takes the form gap revenue in this budget. We have easily tapped revenue source. The third of an inverted pyramid, as my col- another chart. It totals up the pro- counterpoint will be that closing the leagues can see. At the top of the chart posed uses of the tax gap revenue. This tax gap can yield the necessary rev- is gross tax gap. That is what appeared chart is in the shape of a pyramid—the enue. in the budget resolution markup docu- way a pyramid ought to be, not upside As far as those three points are con- ment, the last year that the IRS testi- down. cerned, in the preceding presentation fied that the improvements in collec- Listed in the first category is by the chairman of the committee, my tions have brought the tax gap down by annualized tax relief and spending de- colleagues heard some of these points $55 billion to a net tax gap of $290 bil- mands in the budget that are assumed expressed already. lion. to be offset by, and among other On the first point, I would refer ev- As we work our way down the in- things, this tax gap revenue. You can eryone to the track record of the tax verted pyramid, we go to the tax gap see that they total $314 billion per staffs to the period 2001 to 2006. During proposals. There are two categories. year. I have accounted for the Baucus that period, I chaired for 41⁄2 years and The first is the Treasury tax gap strat- amendment’s annualized impact of $65 Senator BAUCUS chaired for 11⁄2 years. egy set of proposals. On an annualized billion. So the net demand on the an- During that period, we changed the tax basis, these proposals raised $3.6 billion nual tax gap is about $249 billion. If shelter rules and closed numerous cor- per year. you have been following the charts and porate loopholes. If you don’t believe Some of these proposals have proved the arithmetic, you can see that the me, then just go down and ask the K controversial on both sides of the aisle. budget uses almost all of the tax gap Street crowd of highly paid lobbyists Many are complicated and wide-rang- revenue, up to about 85 percent. who defended or fought every one of ing and may need further work. It is Keep in mind that the track record is those. During that 6-year period, an ac- not by accident that they are still a that only $572 million of tax gap raisers tive Finance Committee tax staff was work in progress. were enacted last year. To give you able to achieve $51 billion in enacted The second set of proposals comes perspective, you can look at the ratio revenue raisers. That figure should from the Joint Tax Committee’s white of demands on tax gap revenue to the give everyone some perspective of what book. This pamphlet, requested by Sen- revenue raised from enacted provisions. is doable. It is very hard to find that ator BAUCUS and me—and we requested That is what this chart does. The ratio revenue. this a few years ago—was published in is 435 to 1. There are $435 of proposed Now, some on the other side will late January 2005. A note of caution is tax gap uses in the budget for every $1 argue for my second point that the off- in order about the chart’s figures. The of enacted tax gap revenue. shore activities will produce up to $100 $44 billion annualized figure includes When you look over these numbers, billion a year. The anecdote alluded to many tax expenditure reform pro- it should lead to a healthy skepticism usually referred to fraudulent activi- posals. Some tax gap proponents have of using tax gap revenue as some sort ties. Of course, tax fraud is a crime strongly opposed the mixing of these of instant revenue source to accommo- now. Perhaps we could continue to proposals with pure tax gap proposals. date all the spending this budget pro- make progress on this front with more I will speak in more detail about these poses to do. We ought to listen to the enforcement, but the figures bandied proposals as we go on in this week’s de- career statistics of income folks over around have no Joint Tax or Treasury bate. If one were to delete the tax ex- at the Internal Revenue Service. When scoring that I am aware of. penditure reform proposals from this they tell us not to treat the tax gap I will expand on this point in a sepa- figure, it would drop considerably. number like a revenue estimate, they rate discussion later on in this week For purposes of this exercise, I am are on pretty solid ground. It doesn’t when we have some more debate on it. going to use the full set of Joint Tax mean we should not be aggressive But it is tough to get the revenue that proposals. If we do that and add them about the tax gap. We should. But the is alluded to in the speeches we are to the Treasury proposal, we come thirst for quick-and-dirty revenue rais- going to hear this week. away with roughly $44 billion per year ers should not drive the strategy for The third counterpoint is that the in tax gap-related proposals. dealing with this important problem. tax gap will yield a readily available, As a side note, a couple of recently I wish to step back and summarize easily tapped revenue source. As a pre- enacted tax gap proposals have run the last two major points. liminary matter, let me say that the into rough sledding with the new ma- The first point is that this budget tax gap is a serious tax policy and a se- jority. The first proposal is from the does represent the priorities of the rious administration issue. I have de- 2005 Joint Tax book. It deals with with- Democratic leadership. It is put for- voted a lot of time and energy to clos- holding on contractor payments en- ward with the stated objective of ing the gap over the last few years, as acted in 2006. Ways and Means Demo- achieving fiscal responsibility. The the chairman of the committee, Sen- crats are seeking to delay it. In addi- budget dramatically raises taxes, in- ator BAUCUS, is doing in his recent tion, many House and Senate Demo- creases spending considerably above chairmanship. crats are insisting on repealing another the already generous baseline, and does Unfortunately, as IRS officials have tax gap measure, this one dating from nothing about entitlements. Most ex- told us in several hearings, the tax gap 2004, providing supplementary private perts agree that entitlement spending, number currently estimated to be $250 debt collectors. If enacted, the Joint left unchecked, will cannibalize the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.026 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1799 rest of the budget. From the perspec- Like the Democratic leadership’s ferent conclusion about whether they tive of the Republican caucus, this fis- budget, the candidates on the other agree or disagree. They impliedly or cal blueprint is not fiscal responsi- side oversubscribe the revenue sources explicitly reject our premise that the bility. from proposals that are popular with size of Government needs to be kept in The second point is that an examina- the Democratic base. The deficiency check. tion of the budget, even from the per- can only be made up in three ways: We have another chart. It is a copy of spective of its own proponents, shows One, the undefined sources of revenue an editorial, dated October 22, 2007, that it doesn’t work. There is too much would need to be tapped. Taxpayers from the New York Times. I suppose pressure on the revenue raising. We should rightly be worried about that that is pretty small print for the public have raised revenue from closing cor- revenue. Secondly, the proposed spend- to read. The lead-off paragraph says it porate loopholes. We have raised rev- ing plan would need to be abandoned or best: enue from anti-tax shelter measures. I curtailed. There is not much history on President Bush considers himself a cham- am proud of the Finance Committee’s that side for doing that, taking that pion tax cutter, but all the leading Repub- track record in that regard. We have avenue. Third, add to the deficit for the lican Presidential candidates are eager to enacted $51 billion in loophole closers cost of the new programs. Unfortu- outdo him. Their zeal is misguided. This and antishelter measures for the period nately, this avenue has been taken far country’s meager tax take puts its economic of 2001 to 2006. There are not, however, too many times—by both political par- prospects at risk and leaves the Government enough loophole closers to offset the ties, I am sorry to say. ill equipped to face the challenges from globalization. time-sensitive tax legislation we face We will hear a lot of criticism of our in the first fiscal year of this budget. candidate, Senator MCCAIN, from those The bottom line of the editorial di- We have, likewise, found revenue in po- on the other side. They will argue, like rectly states the view behind this budg- licing offshore shelters and other ac- the President’s budget, that a continu- et and the position of the Democratic tivities, but it fits under the umbrella ation of current-law levels of taxation candidates for President. From this of loophole closers and other tax shel- ‘‘costs’’ the Federal Government too perspective, the historical level of tax- ter oversight. much revenue. They will argue that ation is not appropriate as a measure. Finally, the tax gap is an important the spending increases they propose are The New York Times implies that problem that needs to be tackled, but more important than the restrained the Federal Government must grow as targeting revenue from closing the tax levels of the President’s budget. They a percentage of our economy by at gap needs to be more realistic than it will argue that, despite the record tax least 5 to 8 percentage points. If we is in this document. This budget antici- hikes in their budget, entitlement re- were to follow the path suggested by pates revenue that is incredibly out of form is a matter for another day. the New York Times, the Government’s line with our track record of bringing I have a chart that I believe helps set share of our economy would grow by in money from the tax gap, as worthy the basis of this larger debate. It shows one-third. The Democratic leadership’s as closing the tax gap is. There has to the glidepath for revenue under current budget takes some big steps down that be a reality check between what is out law. It shows that trend in the post- path. So do the campaign proposals of there and what people at the IRS say World War II context. You will see rev- the Democratic Presidential can- we can collect, and they are much enues average about 18.3 percent of the didates. more aggressive at that because of the economy. That is the dotted line across Our Republican conference takes a leadership of Senator BAUCUS. But will there, so for those years since 1968 different view. America is a leading it bring in the revenue? We have shown market economy. American prosperity that it will not, based upon the prac- until now. And what we propose would be a continuation of that policy; we and economic strength, in our view, is tice we have had. derived from a vigorous private sector When you step back from the dif- have averaged, with what the Federal that provides all Americans the oppor- ferences across the aisle on this budg- Government is taking in from all sorts tunity to work hard, save, and invest et, you probably won’t be surprised to of taxes and Federal Government lev- more of their money. A growing econ- find similar differences among the ies, about 18.3 percent of gross national omy is the best policy objective. It Presidential candidates of the two par- product. That means that 535 Members makes fiscal sense as well. ties. of Congress are going to decide how to Generally, the candidates on the spend 18.3 percent of the total economy I have one more chart to back up the other side have proposed to take heav- of our country and that the taxpayers point that it makes fiscal sense. My ily from the taxpayer under the guise are going to spend the other 81.7 per- last chart shows that despite criticisms of fiscal responsibility. This is true cent. You will also see that the state of to the contrary, the bipartisan tax re- when they are talking about ending the the economy affects revenues more lief plan drove revenue back up after bipartisan tax relief plans of 2001 and than anything else. There are dips the economic shocks we suffered in the 2003. It is true when they are talking when we have been in recession and early part of this decade because of a about the same loophole closers for a peaks when growth was high. recession and because of 9/11. myriad number of expansions of exist- Our side cares about keeping the rev- I am referring to the stock market ing entitlements or creating new ones. enue line at a reasonable level. We bubble, corporate scandals, and 9/11 ter- Nowhere is there discussion of reining don’t see the merits of an imperative ror attacks—all those events that were in spending. So the tax side of the Fed- behind a growing role for Government detrimental to this economy of ours eral ledger is the only route to fiscal in the economy. I say that because a and yet it bounced back. The revenue responsibility from the perspective of 40-year history of about 18 to 19 percent outperformed Congressional Budget the candidates on the other side. of the total economy being used by the projections by a significant margin, I want to give one telling example. I Federal Government has been a level and all one has to do is look at what have a chart here that shows the rev- that has not been so high that the pub- CBO said would happen, the blue line, enue from the key revenue raisers from lic has revolted against it. They might and look at the red line of what actu- one of our colleagues on the other side. revolt at times, when it gets way high ally happened. That proposal would repeal the bipar- and we have tax decreases to bring it People on our side, including our tisan tax relief plans for taxpayers back down. Also, I think you can say Presidential candidate, do not take earning above $250,000 a year. This pro- that at that level of taxation, it hasn’t this significant data lightly. We be- posal raises $226 billion over 5 years been harmful to the economy. As you lieve the bias ought to be against grow- and 10 years. A key fact is that the have seen each generation during this ing Government, not the other way source of that revenue peters out over period of time, they have lived better around; another way of saying—dis- the next few years because under cur- than the generation before. Our econ- abusing people who say that the way to rent law the tax relief sunsets at the omy has done well. bring more money in is to raise tax end of 2010. You can see it right there. When you argue about 18.3 percent rates and if you lower tax rates, you Let the tax laws work the way they being the right figure, often the other bring a decline to revenue in the Fed- want them to work, and the revenue side disagrees. If they don’t disagree di- eral Treasury. Not so. This chart shows doesn’t come in. rectly, their policies help us draw a dif- that we can reduce tax rates, we can

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.028 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1800 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 enhance the entrepreneurship of the the tax gap is probably in the range of trolled everything, the House, the Sen- average American, particularly the $2 trillion. I say this as a former tax ate, the White House. What happened small businesspeople in this country administrator of my State, a former to the debt? The debt exploded. This is who create at least 70 percent of the chairman of the Multistate Tax Com- not a projection, this is not guessing jobs that are created, and we can ex- mission. I believe the tax gap over 5 ahead, this is what is happening. And pand revenue coming into the Federal years is likely to be $2 trillion. But it my friends across the aisle controlled Treasury. That is what, on this side of doesn’t stop there. everything—they controlled the Sen- the aisle, we propose to do. Are we I put up what the Permanent Sub- ate, they controlled the House, they equipped to do it? The history of 2001 committee on Investigations says is controlled the White House—and here through 2006 is enough evidence for me the loss to the tax havens. They say is their record. The debt exploded, not and most Americans that it can be $100 billion a year without any growth some projection, not some guesstimate done and that we did it. over 5 years, that would be $500 billion. of the future. That is what has hap- I yield the floor. So with the tax gap and the tax havens, pened. The revenue was flat, the spend- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who that is $2.5 trillion over 5 years. Then ing went up dramatically, went up yields time? The Senator from North abusive tax shelters over the 5 years, I about 50 percent, and the debt exploded Dakota. believe, based on the Permanent Sub- as a result. That is not a projection, Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, first of committee on Investigations’ work, is that is not a claim, that is a fact. all, I wish to say, while I disagree with another $200 billion. That is a total of I yield the floor. some of the observations of the Sen- $2.7 trillion of leakage over 5 years in Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ator from Iowa, I have enormous re- the revenue system—$2.7 trillion. If we would like to respond to the distin- spect for him. He has earned that re- got 15 percent of it, 1–5—15 percent of guished chairman. The Senator from spect by the way he conducts himself it, $1 in every $7 in the tax gap, the tax North Dakota disputed the 9 percent as a Senator. While we have policy dis- havens, the abusive tax shelters, $1 in increase I cited with respect to the dis- agreements, I have absolutely no dis- every $7—we can’t do that? If we can’t cretionary spending. agreement or question about his mo- do that, then the Revenue Commis- Here’s how the Republican staff of tive because he has proved to me re- sioner ought to be replaced and all the the Senate Budget Committee reached peatedly that he is trying to do the rest of us ought to be replaced if we that figure: 1. Take the increase in the Presi- very best for this country, as am I. have designed a tax system that has dent’s budget—6.5 percent over last I want to go back to some basic facts. that much leakage in it, in which the We heard the Senator talk about a 9- year. vast majority of us pay what we owe 2. Add the amount of $22 billion the percent increase in spending that is in but we are letting a bunch of scoun- this budget. I don’t know how they budget assumes over that request. drels escape? Shame on us. That is ex- 3. These additions in discretionary came up with that calculation, but actly what our own Permanent Sub- are not offset. there is no 9 percent increase in spend- committee on Investigations has told 4. Add the two together and you ar- ing in this budget. If you look at the us. rive at a 9 percent increase in discre- spending that is in this resolution over All this talk about, well, we are tionary. 5 years and compare it to the Presi- going to have a trillion dollars of tax 5. I said a 9 percent increase in dis- dent’s budget, it is 2.1 percent more. increases—let’s look at the record. cretionary and I reconfirmed the figure That is total spending. That is over 5 Let’s go to the record. What has this with our Budget Committee staff. years. If we look at just the next year, Congress, controlled by Democrats, As to the tax gap figure of $290 bil- 2009, the Bush budget calls for $3.04 done? It has cut taxes $194 billion so lion, I say to the chairman, that is the trillion of spending. We call for $3.08 far, with $7 billion of revenue raisers figure that is derived from career stat- trillion. That is a difference of 1 per- and loophole closers enacted for that isticians at the IRS statistics of in- cent. That is total spending. period. come—‘‘SOI’’—Division. I will reiterate I think what the Senator’s staff has I say to my colleagues, these are just that these statisticians have cautioned done is to look at one small part of the facts. What is most of this? Most of us to not treat that figure like a rev- Federal spending, just nondefense do- this is the stimulus package we just enue estimate. mestic discretionary spending, which is passed. Most of it was bipartisan. The I reiterate my recognition of the tax about one-sixth or one-seventh of the reference was to Democratic control of gap problem. I am pleased that Chair- budget. But if we look at total spend- the House and the Senate, $194 billion man BAUCUS has made this a top pri- ing, there is a 1-percent difference of tax cuts and $7 billion of revenue ority. I have been his teammate in that total spending for 2009. OK? The dif- raisers. That has been the record of regard and will continue to be. All I ference between our President’s budget this Democratic Congress: $194 billion would say is be careful about realism and our budget is 1 percent—1 percent. of tax cuts and $7 billion of revenue about the revenue we can raise and its That is a fact. raisers. That is not a projection, that timeframe. My inverted pyramid chart On the comparison of revenues, the is not sitting around conjuring up how is a yardstick of that realism. President’s revenue line we see is the we can make the other side look as bad We should close the gap, but the rev- red line, ours is the green line. What is as we can make it, that is a fact of enue raised is what it is. the difference? The difference is over 5 what has been done. I am pleased that the distinguished years, the President calls for $15.2 tril- The other side talks about the mir- chairman agreed that 15 percent is the lion of revenue; we call for $15.4 tril- acle of the tax cuts producing more knowable tax gap-related offsets in lion. That is a difference of 2.6 percent. revenue. We don’t need to look at a terms of scored proposals. I would cau- I believe this revenue can be achieved projection there either. Let’s just look tion everyone that the $44 billion without any tax increase. I believe at the record. annualized figures is the celing on the that. Why do I believe that? Because of In 2000, the tax base of the United tax-gap related offsets. I will discuss the three things I mentioned before. States was $2.03 trillion. Now, adjusted this data in more detail as the debate The tax gap—the Senator put up a for inflation, it is $2.05 trillion. The proceeds. chart that shows what the tax gap was revenue base of the country has basi- The distinguished chairman’s final in 2001. The net tax gap in 2001 was $290 cally been static for 8 years. The spend- point was that revenues have been flat billion. ing, most of it controlled by our col- since 2001. In fact, 2000 was an anomaly. The Senator correctly says very lit- leagues on the other side because they The stock market had not burst and tle has been done in the last year to do were in charge until last year, has gone the chairman knows capital gains and anything about it. In fact, very little up 50 percent. Again, we don’t have to other nonwithheld revenue pushed that has been done over the last 10 years to look at some projection or some guess number up. do anything about it. My belief is the or some economists’ estimates. Let’s We had a triple whammy hit to the tax gap has done nothing but grow just look at what happened on the economy in the next year, 2001. The from 2001. So it is not $290 billion a record: revenue flat, spending up sub- stock market bubble burst, the cor- year anymore. I believe over 5 years stantially when our colleagues con- porate scandals rocked Wall Street and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.030 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1801 whacked main street businesses, and I yield the floor. whether we are going to be able to keep the terrorist attacks occurred. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- our advantage and brainpower here in Because the economny was rocked, ator from North Dakota. America so we can keep our jobs from revenues dropped for 2001 and 2002. Rev- Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, I thank going overseas. They are worried about enues steadily came back after the eco- the Senator from Hawaii for his kind whether our schools are going to be nomic growth plan of 2003 was put in remarks. I also thank him for the enor- good enough to help our children have place. Any review of the revenue base- mous contribution he made to the good jobs. Those working in small busi- line data would confirm what I have work of the Budget Committee, espe- nesses are worried about the cost of said. cially with respect to funding for vet- runaway lawsuits. Women who are I yield the floor. erans affairs, and specifically veterans pregnant in rural areas are worried Mr. CONRAD. Mr. President, Senator health care. One of the things I am about having to drive 60 or 80 miles to AKAKA is here. He would like to speak most proud about in this budget is we a doctor because the high cost of med- on the budget. I will give him time off are showing a $3.2 billion increase over ical malpractice insurance has run the the resolution. How much time does what the President requested for vet- OB/GYN doctors out of the rural areas. the Senator wish? erans health care because I think the Women must go to the big cities and Mr. AKAKA. Four minutes. vast majority of us recognize the ex- Mr. CONRAD. I provide 5 minutes off they have to drive long distances to traordinary ongoing need for improve- the resolution to the Senator from Ha- have their babies. ments to veterans health care. Our vet- Those who work with the capital waii, Mr. AKAKA. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- erans have made an enormous commit- markets—and there are tens of mil- ator from Hawaii is recognized. ment to this country, and we must lions of Americans who do—want to re- Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, I rise to keep our commitment to them. vive those capital markets. Those who commend Budget Committee chairman Last year, as the Chair will recall, are sitting in traffic jams want us to KENT CONRAD for his fine work on this the budget contained the largest in- meet our obligations to build roads, budget resolution. It will lower our crease for veterans health care in our bridges, railroads, and airports. We taxes and create hundreds of thousands history. This year we have another sig- want simpler taxes. We would like to of new jobs for Americans. In addition, nificant increase that largely parallels have less Government. All of these I am very pleased this budget resolu- the budget proposed by the veterans or- ideas would affect the family budget. tion honors our Nation’s veterans by ganizations themselves in recognition We must maintain a good balance in providing the necessary funds for our of the extraordinary need that exists. management-labor relations, for exam- wounded warriors. Funding for our vet- I yield the floor. ple, by not getting rid of the secret bal- erans is very important, and I wish to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who lot in labor relations or keeping the speak about this again at a later time. yields time? right-to-work law. Those are all impor- The resolution passed by the Budget Mr. GRASSLEY. I yield whatever tant issues. I saw in my State of Ten- Committee last Thursday will balance time Senator ALEXANDER might con- nessee that having a right-to-work law our Federal budget by 2012 and fund sume. helped to attract the auto industry. programs that are critical to the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Now, a third of our manufacturing jobs health and safety of Americans. It pro- ator from Tennessee is recognized. are auto jobs and our family incomes vides tax relief to middle-income Mr. ALEXANDER. Will the Chair have gone up. Americans, honors our fighting men please let me know when I have com- So let me talk for just a moment and women in the Armed Forces, shows pleted 15 minutes? about what Republicans want to do to respect for our wounded and disabled The PRESIDING OFFICER. The help balance the Federal budget. veterans, and ensures the continued Chair will so advise the Senator. So the question is whether we will safety and security of our Nation. Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I adopt the Democratic budget which, By focusing on the real needs of first commend the Senators from according to evidence presented by the Americans and reviving our slowing North Dakota and Iowa for the way Republican leaders of the Budget and economy, the budget resolution seeks they conduct this debate. This is al- Finance Committees, would raise to restore balance—balance to our fi- ways a model for how the Senate ought taxes, raise spending, raise debt, and nances and balance to our priorities for to work. Sometimes toward the end of wreck the Federal budget or whether America. The budget resolution in- the debate it is not but at least at the we will adopt the Republican pro- creases funding for veterans health beginning it is. What we are supposed growth plan which keeps taxes low, care and children’s health care. It pro- to do is act like grownups, deal with which lowers energy costs, which helps vides a substantial increase above the big issues, base our arguments on prin- make it possible for every American President’s budget for education and ciple, and come to results. We often are family to have health insurance with- Head Start. It promotes greater effi- able to do that, and these two Senators out the government choosing the doc- ciency and renewable energy programs. are among the leaders in helping to tor. It extends middle-class tax cuts, such make that happen. I wish to talk about the other picture as marriage penalty relief and the This is a week during which we talk that taking the Republican pro-growth child tax credit, and it brings more about the Federal budget. I want to plan to help balance the family budget middle-class Americans into a 10-per- talk more about the family budget be- instead of the Democratic budget for cent tax bracket. The budget resolu- cause what we do with the Federal more taxes, more spending, and more tion also invests in building and repair- budget makes a big difference to the debt. ing roads, bridges, harbors, airports, family budget. Traditionally, this budget week when and schools because we recognize our We know this week in homes in Ten- we talk about the Federal budget is economic success depends on public in- nessee, Iowa, and across America peo- usually a week in which we are so frastructure investment. ple are talking about their family awash in a blizzard of charts and As Chairman CONRAD has noted, this budgets. They’re worried about wheth- speeches, abstractions, and competing budget is only a first step, but it is an er there will be enough money at the statistics that it is very difficult to important step to reach our goal of end of the month to pay the taxes that make much sense out of the whole dis- long-term fiscal security. I am pre- will be due in April and about whether cussion. What I am suggesting is not pared to join Chairman CONRAD in this there will be enough money to pay gas- very hard to make such sense out of— important mission to balance our budg- oline costs that are $3.50 a gallon or it is a debate we hear quite a bit. et, restore our military readiness, higher in some parts of the country. In December, when we debated the honor our commitment to troops and They are worried about whether there Energy bill, we on this side were will- veterans, and enhance our national se- will be enough money to afford a rea- ing to join with many Democrats and curity. sonable health insurance plan and pass a fuel efficiency standard. This is I urge my colleagues to do the same. whether the homes so many Americans one of the best things this Congress has It is time that we provide a real future have been able to buy will maintain done to reduce our dependence on for- for our children and our country. their value. They are worried about eign oil, thereby reducing our use of oil

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.003 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1802 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 and helping to stabilize the price of as Senator DOMENICI and Senator back into the marketplace those who gasoline. But, first, we had to stop an SALAZAR on the Democratic side of the would buy foreclosed homes or new effort from the other side to add $20 aisle led us to do in the 2005 Energy homes. Another idea, which I believe billion in taxes. bill. there is substantial agreement with on Earlier this year, most of us on this I would like to see us take some of both sides of the aisle, is to increase side joined with most on the other side the money that we are spending and the amount of money that would be to pass an economic stimulus plan. use it to give incentives to utilities to available to State housing agencies to But, first, we had to reject $40 billion increase incentives for using elec- help refinance subprime mortgages or in more spending that the other side tricity in the off-peak hours. To put mortgages that are now headed to fore- wanted to add to the proposal. that in plain English, the Tennessee closure or in foreclosure. My point is that more spending is not Valley Authority uses about 27,000 In terms of education, I know for a a new argument and that the other side megawatts of electricity on any given fact if you want a stronger economy would propose more spending, more day, a typical day, on the average. But and higher family incomes, you have to taxes, and more debt, and this side of at night, it has 7,000 or 8,000 megawatts have a focus on education. Better the aisle would say, let’s have less of it doesn’t use. So if we had ways to schools, better colleges, and better uni- that. There is another part to the story plug in hybrid cars at night, we versities mean better jobs. And that on the Republican side of the aisle and wouldn’t have to spend money for new doesn’t always mean more spending. exactly what we would do to help bal- plants and could lower the cost of elec- For example, giving parents more ance the family budget. tricity, improve the quality of the air, choices of schools, particularly low-in- Over this week, we will be hearing and deal with climate change at the come parents, with the idea of a Pell proposals to lower or to keep taxes low. same time. grant for kids would be one way of There are a variety of proposals to do That is all part of the Republican helping hard-working American fami- that. One would be to lower corporate plan. Not just Republican ideas, but lies make sure their children have a tax rates from 35 to 25 percent. That the Republican plan, which we hope is chance to attend a good school. would help keep jobs in America. That so compelling that it attracts Demo- Another way to make sure there are helps the family budget. One would be cratic support to help balance the fam- good schools is to pay outstanding to index capital gains for inflation. ily budget. teachers more money for teaching well. That would help keep jobs in America. On the Republican side of the aisle, This weekend, there was a story in the That helps the family budget. I would we want to make sure every American New York Times about a charter like to see us make permanent the ex- has health insurance without the Gov- school in New York City where teach- pensing provisions that we passed in ernment choosing the doctor. We have ers are being paid $125,000 a year. And the stimulus package. That would help a variety of proposals for doing this. the manager of the school said: I would keep small businesses healthy in this We want to integrate the idea of every rather have a classroom with 30 kids country and create new jobs. Those in- American having access to health in- and the very best teacher, rather than comes would increase family incomes, surance with two words: private sector. a classroom with 20 students and an av- and that would help the family budget. We believe we can do that, and do that erage teacher. We would like to lower energy costs in a way that lowers the cost of health I agree with that, Mr. President. So as well and bring some common sense care and makes a basic health care let’s double the amount of money we to the discussion about energy. That plan available to every American. would spend for the teachers’ incentive would mean, from our point of view, One way, of course, to lower the costs fund, enacted in No Child Left Behind, more nuclear power because that is the of health care would be, as I mentioned which would give to State and local cleanest power. If we are really serious a little earlier, to stop runaway law- governments funds to experiment with about climate change in this genera- suits that are driving up the costs of programs that reward outstanding tion and about cleaning up the sulfur medical malpractice lawsuits and caus- teaching and outstanding school lead- and the nitrogen and the mercury, we ing OB/GYN doctors to leave rural ership by paying those individuals need to remember 66 percent of all the areas. We have pregnant women in more. clean energy we produce in America is Tennessee who drive 60 or 80 miles to We have strong agreement about the produced by nuclear power. Instead of Memphis for their prenatal health care America COMPETES Act. We under- wasting dollars by spending, for exam- or to have their babies because the OB/ stand that since World War II Amer- ple, $11 billion to subsidize more large GYN doctors’ health care costs—their ica’s technological advances have been wind turbines, we could spend the medical malpractice costs—are so high the source of its growth. Using some of money to encourage the building of nu- because of unnecessary lawsuits that the funding we have in this budget to clear power. We could encourage re- they have left town and gone to some have a sufficient amount of funding to processing of nuclear waste which other place. give 11⁄2 million low-income children an would reduce by 95 percent the amount We could enact a small business opportunity to take advanced place- of that waste and storing it, thus mak- health insurance plan, which has sig- ment tests, to hire math and science ing it easier for nuclear power. nificant support on both sides of the teachers according to the America More oil would increase the supply of aisle, but we haven’t been able to get it COMPETES Act, and to put us on a oil and reduce the price of oil. Simple through the Congress yet. It would path of double funding for the physical economics tells us that. Most of us on help an estimated 1 million more sciences are things that would be part this side of the aisle are ready to give Americans to have health insurance at of a Republican pro-growth plan to States the option to drill for oil and a lower cost. help balance the family budget. gas off the coast of America. You can These are some of the ideas we on As we begin this debate on the budg- do that at a distance. It can’t be seen this side of the aisle believe would et, what we are likely to see are two and it can be done safely. Then a sig- make a difference in helping the family very different visions of America’s fu- nificant amount of the royalties from budget. Most Americans are concerned ture. the revenue from that can be taken today about the values of their homes. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Ms. into the State, put in a trust fund, There are a number of proposals that STABENOW). The Senator has used 15 which could either lower taxes or pro- would simply add billions of dollars in minutes. tect the coastal areas or could be spent spending as a way of approaching the Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, to improve the higher education sys- housing slowdown. However, we would I ask unanimous consent for 4 more tem. like to see proposals like that of Sen- minutes. The State of Virginia has said it ator ISAKSON of Georgia that would The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without wants to do this. Most of us on this adopt an idea—similar to what the gov- objection, it is so ordered. side of the aisle, the Republican side of ernment had in the 1970s—to give a Mr. ALEXANDER. So again, the the aisle, say, why not? And why not $5,000 tax credit to home buyers who question is whether we will adopt the take some of the royalties as well and buy newly constructed or homes that Democratic budget which would raise devote them to conservation purposes, are being foreclosed. This would bring taxes, raise spending, raise debt, and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.033 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1803 wreck the Federal budget or whether Madam President, this week in the there is violence on the streets, we we will adopt the Republican pro- Senate, we are fighting for the eco- hear you. If your family may be in dan- growth plan. Will we make room for nomic future of America. This is the ger of losing your home in Trenton or the Republican pro-growth plan which week that we put together on the floor Long Branch or North Arlington; if you would begin to keep taxes low, which of the Senate the Federal Govern- are teaching at a school with a budget would begin to lower energy costs, ment’s budget. And that budget is stretched as far as it can go in Ham- which would help make it possible for more than just a balance sheet of reve- ilton, Plainfield, or Asbury Park; if every American family to have health nues and expenditures, it is a balance your commute to work just keeps get- insurance without the Government sheet of priorities and values. The lines ting more frustrating in Cherry Hill; if choosing the doctor, which would stim- of numbers come together to form a every day you drive by a barren indus- ulate home buying, which would make bigger picture, laying out a vision of trial site that is not being redeveloped more room for science, which would ad- where we plan to lead the Nation. in Penns Grove or Paulsboro; if it is a just our spending so we are able to re- Every year, when we make the budg- struggle to pay your college tuition in ward outstanding teachers and give et, we look at where our country New Brunswick or pay your heating parents more choices of good schools. stands, at how we can improve the bill in Toms River or pay your health This is a different picture of how we lives of the American people, and what care costs in Edison, Democrats under- can move ahead in this country. we can do to make sound investments stand what people—certainly I do—all We hear a lot of talk about change. A that brighten the future of generations across America are going through. real change would be to stop more to come. None of us can stand and pretend one taxes. Stop excessive spending. Stop It is a responsibility that we cannot budget can be the magic bullet that more debt. And focus more attention afford to take lightly. When we create makes all of these problems disappear. on the family budget. Have a Federal a budget, we have to answer some fun- One year is not enough time for that. budget that emphasizes lower taxes, damental questions: What are the most One year cannot undo 7 years of the lower energy costs, lower health insur- important problems we face as a na- Bush administration’s mismanagement ance costs, stimulating home buying, tion? What are the challenges of mid- that turned a record surplus into a more for science and more for better dle-class working families? How do we soaring deficit. And 1 year cannot undo schools. That’s really the way to create meet those challenges? 5 years of a war in Iraq that has better jobs. Several weeks ago, President Bush claimed thousands of American lives I thank the Chair, and I yield the gave us his answer. And his answer and incinerated more than a half tril- floor. was, there is nothing wrong with Amer- lion dollars that we could have used to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Who ica that cannot be fixed by giving away make American lives better. yields time? more tax breaks to the wealthy, giving In one budget we cannot fully fund Mr. CONRAD. Madam President, Sen- away more subsidies to big oil compa- all of the programs that deserve our ator MENENDEZ, who is a very valuable nies, continuing the war in Iraq, and support or give the tax relief we want member of the Budget Committee, as is never admitting what it costs. to middle-class working families, not the occupant of the Chair, is here and The President is fighting to keep under this administration. But this is available for his opening remarks. taxes low for the wealthy and wants to year, we can set the wheels in motion How much time would the Senator make it up by charging veterans more of the long and indispensable process of desire? for their health care. Apparently, that change. We can develop a plan to meet Mr. MENENDEZ. If the Chair could, I is the answer some of my colleagues on the challenges we face head on, and we think about 20, 25 minutes. the other side of the aisle are giving as can start to move our country forward. Mr. CONRAD. I yield such time as well. They agree with the President the This is exactly what the Senate the Senator may consume. American people should cover their Democratic budget does. Here is the vi- Again, I thank the Senator from New eyes, pretend their problems do not sion our budget puts forth for our Na- Jersey, who is truly an outstanding exist, that everything magically will tion, a nation that is more prosperous, member of the Budget Committee. He work itself out. with more affordable health care, on has made an incredibly valuable con- I believe a vote for the President’s the path to energy independence, a na- tribution there, and I very much appre- budget is a vote for the status quo. It tion of safer neighborhoods, better ciate the leadership he has brought to is a vote for the way things are going schools, a nation of which we can all be the committee. in America in terms of this economy. proud. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The Democrats see things quite dif- Above all, our budget is designed to ator from New Jersey. ferently. Here is what we see: Our econ- get our economy growing, get our econ- Mr. MENENDEZ. I thank the distin- omy is continuously weakening, and omy growing and moving again. That guished chairman for his kind words. I tens of thousands of people are losing is the first and foremost priority of particularly thank him for his leader- their jobs. The price we pay for health this budget. The Bush budget, sup- ship in structuring a budget that I am care is spiking through the roof, while ported by many of our Republican col- convinced, unlike the President’s budg- the value of our homes is falling leagues, creates jobs in China, while et, speaks to the shared values of the through the floor. Baby boomers worry the Democratic budget creates good- American people, speaks to the prior- about whether they are going to be paying jobs in America. The Demo- ities that our Nation needs to pursue, able to retire with dignity, and senior cratic budget focuses on rebuilding our meets the challenges our country has, Americans are worried that the strong infrastructure, expanding incentives and ultimately goes to the very heart base of Social Security could crumble for green initiatives and industries, of turning this economy in a much dif- right under them. Our climate is in cri- and investing in math, science, and en- ferent direction so that it can work for sis, and our attachment to an umbil- gineering and technology so American working families. ical cord of foreign oil means our en- businesses can create and keep the best Under his leadership, we have a budg- tire way of life hangs by a liquid jobs here in America. et that I am proud to support on the thread. Our budget puts the family budget floor of the Senate. And whether you The Government is going into debt to first. It provides middle-class tax relief live in the East or West or North or the tune of more than $10 billion per by extending the marriage penalty re- South, I think Americans will find this month to finance a war in Iraq that has lief, a child tax credit, a patch for the budget, as they become more fully not made any of us safer, while local alternative minimum tax that will pro- aware of it, is one that has the integ- police and fire departments are getting tect millions of middle-class families rity, the honesty, as well as the pur- squeezed for funds, and crime in our from paying higher taxes next year; it poses to meet the challenges. The neighborhoods is on the rise. works to make college more affordable chairman deserves enormous credit for If you have worked in Newark all by extending a tuition tax credit; and working with all Members on both your life and just lost your job, we hear it supports job training programs that sides to try to achieve those goals, and you. If you are scared to walk through will prepare the workforce for the 21st I appreciate his leadership. your neighborhood in Camden because century.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.034 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1804 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 This budget moves us down the road sit or rail systems, will not be short- and eliminate 48 programs in the De- to energy independence. It helps create changed. By restoring more than $750 partment of Education, including edu- a highly skilled workforce and green- million in grants to firefighters, we cation technology, mentoring, reading collar jobs. I am proud of the push for will also ensure that our fire depart- programs, and vocational education. funding for energy efficiency and con- ments can buy new equipment or en- Instead of pretending our young people servation block grants, a provision I sure that our fire stations are fully are not facing severe hardships when it authored in our last Energy bill to pro- staffed. Unlike the President, we will comes to paying for college, our budget vide cities with support for projects keep our commitment to fulfilling the makes the needed investments in that foster more efficient use of energy recommendations of the 9/11 Commis- grants and scholarships for college and and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. sion, and we will keep our commitment allows for an increase in the Pell grant We all know oil and natural gas to our first responders. maximum next year. That is the sup- prices are sky high, the sea levels are We more than double the funding for port our young people deserve, and rising, along with the temperature. So the Byrne/JAG Program that many under this budget that is the support this program is a key part of our strat- local law enforcement officials across they are going to get. egy to meet those challenges. the country consider the most success- I have often said, as someone who The Democratic budget recognizes we ful crime prevention program in recent grew up poor in a tenement in Union cannot think about national security history. I am proud to have introduced City, NJ, the first one in my family to without thinking about hometown se- the amendment that was passed unani- go to college, that would never have curity. While our resources are being mously in the Budget Committee set- happened but for the power of the Fed- drained day after day on the streets of ting aside a minimum of $520 million to eral Government being able to provide Baghdad and Mosul, we are struggling fund it. I am going to ensure that we me grants and loans. That power gave to protect high-risk targets on the continue to support this vital program. me the educational opportunity and streets of our own neighborhoods. We have also included language to foundation that allowed me to be the We know our police departments are help the FBI cut down its massive junior Senator from New Jersey. The just a phone call away during an emer- backlog in evaluating immigration ap- reality is, that should be a birthright gency. Our brave men and women in plications for those who follow our for every young person in our country law enforcement have dedicated them- rules to legally enter the country. Cut- who is willing to work hard and give selves to serving and protecting our ting down this backlog is essential if something back to their Nation. communities. So it is unbelievable to the FBI is going to be able to quickly This budget meets that battle. Let me that the Bush administration has separate those who have come to pur- me close by saying our debate over the reduced or eliminated nearly every sue the American dream versus those budget is a debate over the direction of major anticrime program over the who may have come to destroy it. the economy, the fulfillment of our course of the last 7 years, especially Our budget puts a priority on making shared values, and the direction of our since crime and violence have been on health care more affordable and more country. The President and those who the rise in the country, according to accessible to all Americans. We have support him are offering the same old the FBI reports. worked to create a reserve fund to ideas that got us into this mess in the Crime is going up, violent crime is block President Bush’s unilateral first place, ideas that have weakened going up, and the Bush administra- changes to Medicaid that would se- the economy and hurt the middle class. tion’s cuts to the most essential public verely reduce Federal health care funds If you ask for more of the same, it safety programs, the very essence of to States for low-income families. This seems to me, you get more of the same. homeland security, go down. What was the very essence of the social safe- Those who are happy with the economy should be going up is going down. What ty net that we as a society should be that we are in would be happy with the should be going down is going up. How judged by. President’s budget. Those who are lan- can we expect law enforcement to The reserve fund would also help pro- guishing, and that is the overwhelming carry out their responsibilities and re- tect New Jersey’s FamilyCare Program majority of American families in this spond in a moment’s notice when the from the President’s Draconian cuts to country, under the President’s eco- Federal Government is backing out of children’s health coverage scheduled nomic policies, the reality is they want its responsibility to support law en- for this summer. We have included sup- to see change. That change is rep- forcement? port for other legislation, and this resented in the Democratic budget. People in my home State of New Jer- budget includes funding for the Patient Democrats have a fiscally responsible sey remember on September 11 that it Navigator Program, which I worked plan to get our economy moving again was not the Federal Government that hard to have passed into law. If pa- and strengthen our national security. provided the immediate response, it tients are having trouble figuring out The budget we are putting forth cuts was the local police, the firefighters the complicated health care system we taxes for the middle class, creates a and emergency management and med- are in, but they do not know how to get half million new jobs in America, and ical units from our hometowns. Yet in early screening or do not know about we do all of this while working toward the years after September 11, the ad- options for follow-up treatment, pa- the balanced budget and paying down ministration has left our local commu- tient navigators make sure someone is debt. nities to shoulder far too much of the there to help them. It is a plan that puts forth a basic financial burden. Our budget, however, Our budget also keeps our commit- idea about what America should be. will ensure that first responders across ment to our schools, our teachers, and This should be a country where anyone the Nation will get the resources they our students. I am proud that our budg- willing to work hard can get an edu- need. et provides the largest increase for ele- cation and a job, a country where ev- I was proud to work with Chairman mentary and secondary education in 6 eryone has access to services that can CONRAD to ensure that homeland secu- years. Instead of taking money away keep them healthy, a country where a rity grants that our communities rely from our schools while asking them to lifetime of hard work guarantees the on most were protected in this budget. do more, our budget will fund programs right to retire with dignity, a country The Democratic budget restores more that provide enrichment and oppor- that knows its past and cares about its than $2 billion in misguided cuts the tunity to our students. future. President made to State homeland se- We do not just say education is a pri- Let’s invest in that future. Let’s pass curity grants, to port security, inter- ority, we put our money where our val- this budget. Let’s begin the hard work operable communications, rail and ues are by providing $3 billion more of making that vision a reality and transit security. than the President for No Child Left changing economic circumstances for Our budget will ensure that States Behind, and $8.8 billion more than the families. That is what this debate is all facing threats from high-risk targets President for education and training about. That is what the Democratic or densely populated areas, commu- overall. budget is all about. That is why I am nities that are near ports, chemical We soundly reject the President’s proud to have voted for it in com- plants, airports, cities with mass tran- proposal to freeze education funding mittee, proud to stand on the floor to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.036 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1805 defend it, and proud to support Senator that money should be spent. I think about tax gap collection. So we held a CONRAD in his efforts in that regard. that is the wrong prescription virtually hearing. We said: How much money I yield the floor. any time but certainly at a time when could we really collect by enforcing The PRESIDING OFFICER. The dis- we may be heading into a recession. revenue collections? Everybody owes tinguished Senator from Arizona. It at least is the case that our Demo- these taxes. If we just collected the Mr. KYL. Madam President, I note cratic friends in their budget would money, how much could we expect to that my friend and colleague, the raise taxes in some cases—not all but get? The experts said: Actually, not chairman of the Budget Committee, is in some cases—to pay for this addi- very much. You would spend more than here. I thought I would begin by tional spending they believe should you would end up collecting in many quoting something he said which I occur. As with last year’s budget, cases because it is not a matter of just think sets the tone for the discussion which would have increased taxes by going out and collecting a due debt of the budget. I believe it was during a $900 billion, this year the budget would but, rather, forcing the kind of book- March 4, 2007, interview on ‘‘60 Min- increase taxes by $1.2 trillion—the big- keeping on various kinds of small busi- utes’’ when the distinguished chairman gest tax hike in the history of the nesses that would probably put most of said: United States. them out of business if they were real- I believe, first of all, that we need more Once again, there is a suggestion out ly to keep the kinds of records that revenue. there that we can soak the rich and no- would enable us to collect the kinds of Now I won’t pretend that I know the body else will have to bear the burden. taxes that we suggest maybe they owe. exact context in which this statement The top 1 percent would pay something So this business of recouping a portion was made, but it is not the first time I like $25 billion in taxes; that is the of the tax gap and using that to pay for have heard Democratic colleagues say amount we could expect from this these spending programs is one that we need more revenue. In one of our in- budget in 2009. Of course, that wouldn’t does not have the support of those who formal meetings, colleagues said: We begin to take care of the spending pro- have testified before the Finance Com- mittee. will need a much bigger revenue posals that have been added up on the The bottom line is, we are not going stream when the next President is other side of the aisle. Every time we try to target the rich to be able to collect the kinds of reve- elected. That individual was presuming nues and the increased taxes called for it would be a Democratic President. in order to collect a lot of money to pay for spending in Washington, we end here in order to pay for spending pro- Mr. SANDERS. Will the Senator grams the Democrats have identified. up hitting everybody else. The best ex- yield? Finally, there is talk about a so- Mr. KYL. Yes, of course. ample of that is the alternative min- called reserve fund. This is an inter- Mr. SANDERS. Let me say, very imum tax, the AMT. Originally, this esting concept. It is sort of, well, there clearly, to set the record straight, as tax was designed to ensure that mil- is going to be money out there because an Independent, we need more revenue. lionaires would always pay some taxes, we promise we will put money in it, so We have the highest rate of childhood that they could not avoid tax liability we can afford to therefore raise spend- poverty in the industrialized world. We by taking advantage of writeoffs and ing in anticipation that we will put have people who are hungry. We have deductions and credits and other provi- money in this reserve fund. The mothers who can’t afford childcare. sions of the Tax Code that anybody is amount of reserve funds included in the Yes, sir, we need more revenue. We entitled to take advantage of, if those 2008 budget have now grown this year, should ask the wealthiest people in provisions meant that you could write representing up to $300 billion in new this country to help us come up with off or offset your income with losses or taxes and spending. As I said, that the revenue. deductions and therefore there is no looks good on paper, but it doesn’t Mr. KYL. I am happy to have the tax liability. We said: No, that is not come about in reality. Senator from Vermont confirm that on right. The AMT will come into play at I will get to a final point in a minute the other side of the aisle there is a be- that point so everybody has to pay about collecting revenues and what lief that the U.S. Government needs some taxes. It seemed like a good idea that has to do with the death tax, but more revenue. at the time. let me deal with a couple other items I would actually put it the other way What has happened in the meantime, before I talk about that. around. Especially in times of eco- we all know, because it has not been The ranking member of the Budget nomic difficulties—and I think we all indexed for inflation, we now this year Committee has noted something that agree that our economy is not in great had something like 23 million tax- started last year, and it certainly is in- shape right now; there is a discussion payers subject to that kind of alter- cluded in this year’s budget. That is that we may even be in or very close to native minimum tax liability, some- the fact that budget enforcement a recession—of course, the worst thing thing people on both sides of the aisle mechanisms which were put into the to do during that period is to give the have sought to avoid. We don’t want to budget last year amid great fanfare Federal Government more revenue, to tax everybody. We don’t want to hit about how we are not going to have take more revenue out of the pockets the middle class, let alone other tax- sham budgets; we are going to have of taxpayers, average Americans who payers. But it is a good example of pay-go—whenever we spend, we will have to pay attention to their own how, when we try to aim at the rich, make sure we collect it in advance—it budgets. we end up somehow always managing turns out that has been waived more As a matter of fact, our problem is to hit the poor or the middle class. times than it has been abided by. With not the lack of Federal revenues. We That is the same thing here. the budgetary sleights of hand that are collecting more money now at the In the budget, there is a suggestion were put in place last year, we find Federal Government level than the his- that we are only going to hit the rich. that the same things roll over into the toric average over the last 40 years. I There are problems with that: No. 1, it budget this year, with the result that, hardly think the Federal Government is not true, as I will point out; sec- again, we have greater debt that is not needs more revenue. I argue, instead, ondly, you wouldn’t begin to get the really going to be paid for, notwith- that our families need to keep more of kind of revenue our colleagues say they standing what the budget seems to sug- the hard-earned revenue that is a re- need in order to engage in the spending gest. sult of the efforts of their families in programs the budget calls for. The House budget included reconcili- working hard every day. I have a couple other examples. The ation instructions to pay for a 1-year It is true that because many on the energy and education tax incentives in extension of the AMT patch by presum- Democratic side of the aisle have plans this budget must be paid for by other ably raising taxes on oil and gas com- to spend more money, as my distin- tax increases. The same applies to the panies, taxing private equity, and codi- guished colleague from Vermont is sug- middle-class tax relief promised and fying the so-called economic substance gesting, they therefore see a need to any AMT relief after 2008. I remember doctrine. The Senate committee did take money from taxpayers’ pockets so because I chaired the subcommittee of not include reconciliation instructions that we in Washington, in our infinite the Finance Committee that has juris- in the Senate budget resolution, I pre- wisdom, can make decisions about how diction over the IRS. I heard a lot sume because of the conclusion that at

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.037 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1806 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 the end of the last year, the AMT did cerned about. One thousand there, GDP; in fact, 34.2 percent. Our unem- not need to be paid for. $2,000 there, $4,000 there ends up being ployment rate is 4.8 percent. In the Eu- Obviously, there is an understanding a lot of money to these families. ropean Union, the tax rates are more in this caucus that those who oppose Who else is going to get hit? Senior than 10 percent above that. They col- higher taxes on oil and gas—there are citizens, 18 million senior citizens will lect 45.4 percent of revenues as a per- those who oppose higher taxes on oil see their taxes rise by an average of cent of their GDP, and their unemploy- and gas and oppose taxes on private eq- $2,200 under this budget. So every Dem- ment rate is almost 8 percent. It is 7.9 uity, and it would be a very difficult ocrat who proudly casts a vote in favor percent right at this moment. So if we thing to get such a bill passed in the of this budget, understand, this budget want higher unemployment, then raise Senate. But no one should be surprised assumes that seniors will have an aver- taxes. It is a pretty sure way to get that the same reconciliation instruc- age tax increase in 2011 of $2,200. An el- there. tions could very well magically appear derly couple with $40,000 in income, if Let me conclude by discussing briefly in the Senate after a conference in the Democrats roll back our current what this budget does with respect to order to get around Republican opposi- tax policy, a couple over age 65 at the death tax because this has been a tion to higher taxes. That is why you $40,000 in income will see their taxes go matter of particular concern to me. I have heard many Republicans predict up by $2,200 in 2011. Eighteen million have talked to Chairman BAUCUS about that when the conference report is con- seniors will see their taxes increase if this matter. cluded on this budget—if, indeed, a the current tax rates are not extended, In the Finance Committee, I offered budget is passed—and it comes back which is not the case under the Demo- an amendment to reform the death tax. here to the Senate, we are going to see cratic bill. Seniors especially benefit In exchange for my agreeing to lay the some things that never would have from reasonable capital gains and divi- amendment aside because the other been in the bill at this point in time dends tax rates because frequently side did not want to vote on it, the and which I hope my colleagues would they have small investments. They are chairman agreed to hold hearings with recognize and would oppose at that part of a teacher’s pension or some the goal of trying to report out a death time. other fund that pays them dividends. tax reform proposal sometime this I said I would get to the matter of Thirty percent of taxpaying seniors spring. He has now advised me that is whom this budget really hurts. We in claim capital gains. More than 50 per- not going to happen. We will have the the past have tried to focus on the rich, cent of taxpaying seniors claim indi- hearing, but we will not have a markup and we always end up hurting other vidual dividends which would, of to put out a bill. That is very dis- people. Who are some of the other folks course, increase their tax liability appointing. Yet the budget actually as- who would suffer under this budget? under the Democratic budget. sumes that such a bill will pass. They include families, seniors, people We talk about small businesses. The budget, as I understand it, has a with low incomes, small businesses—in Small businesses are the engine of our provision for an amendment of the other words, just about every group in economy. They provide more employ- death tax for so-called death tax re- this country we really don’t want to ment opportunities than all of the big form. It is not very good reform be- hit with higher taxes. But when the businesses combined. Yet they pay the cause it would freeze the rate at 45 per- current tax rates expire at the end of income tax rate at the highest level, cent, which is a very high rate of tax- 2010 and the Democratic budget per- which is the level of the ‘‘rich.’’ So ation. It would set the exemption level mits the rates to go back up to where whenever Democrats talk about taxing at $3.5 million, which is not bad, but it they were before, the so-called Bush the rich, understand their shotgun also could be better. tax cuts, we are going to see 116 mil- includes all of the small businesses be- I have a better idea about what real lion taxpayers start sending more of cause that is the rate they pay. So in reform would look like. What I would their paychecks to Washington, DC. the tax world, small businesses are the like to do is to set the exempted The poor Federal Government needs same thing as high-income individuals. amount at $5 million per person, index more revenue, as my colleague said Is that whom we want to harm, espe- that for inflation, and put the top earlier. For the 7.8 million taxpayers cially at a time when our economy, death tax rate at no more than 35 per- taken off the rolls, if the current tax being in jeopardy as it is, has to rely cent. I think it ought to be closer to 25 policies are allowed to expire, 7.8 mil- upon the jobs created by small busi- percent, but in the spirit of trying to lion families who currently don’t pay nesses? Seventy-five percent of all indi- reach a compromise, I will propose we any income taxes because of the way vidual returns in the top 1 percent of at least have it no higher than 35 per- we constructed the 2003 tax cuts would income include business income. In cent. This would protect almost 120,000 be put back on the rolls again. So there fact, 83 percent of all individual re- families, family businesses, and family you have people in the lower income turns above $1 million included busi- farms from having to pay the death tax brackets—7.8 million taxpayers we ness income. Think about that. That each and every year. And it would pro- took off the rolls—who would come means that the bulk of the people who mote continued economic growth and back as taxpayers under the Demo- are reporting income in this category job creation. cratic budget. Families, 43 million include business income. It is interesting to me that the working families with children would Small businesses pay 54 percent of all United States has the third highest es- see their taxes raised by an average of individual income taxes. This is one of tate tax rate in the world and is 37 per- $2,300 in the year 2011 on average. Take the worst things about the Democratic cent above the international average. a security guard earning $50,000, with a budget—not just for the lack of equity, Twenty-four nations have no estate wife and two kids. He would see his not just because it hurts individuals, tax. There are only two countries that taxes go up by $2,300 in 2011. Take a but because it has a devastating im- have rates higher than ours. Ours widowed teacher’s aide with two kids. pact on our economy at this critical would be at 45 percent under the Demo- Her taxes will go up by $1,100 in 2011. time. crat budget. In France it is only 40 per- That may not seem like a lot of money If tax rates are allowed to rise to cent. The average is about 13 percent. here in Washington, but it is a lot of their pre-2001 levels, 27 million small One of the reasons other countries do money for a family working hard to businesses will see their tax bill in- not have this kind of tax at the time of make ends meet, worrying each month creased by over $4,000. I will repeat it: death is because of the amount of about where they will get the money to 27 million small businesses will see money that people will spend to try to do all the things they need to do. their tax bill increase by over $4,000. avoid it. It has been estimated, as a We tend to think in this body and in I might just note parenthetically, matter of fact, that there is almost an the Congress generally not in terms of there is a direct correlation, by the equal amount of money spent each millions anymore or even hundreds of way, between high taxes and high un- year in an effort to try to avoid pay- millions but in billions of dollars. In employment. In the United States, we ment of the tax as there is paying the fact, trillions are starting to creep into have had relatively low taxes because tax itself. And by ‘‘trying to avoid it,’’ our lexicon. We need to get back to of the Bush tax cuts. We collect about I mean hiring lawyers and accountants focus on what families are really con- 34 percent of revenues as a percent of and buying insurance policies, all of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.038 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1807 which cost a lot of money. But due to cratic budget that was passed last ing on our long-term fiscal challenges. some extent—— year, and we see all of the unfulfilled This is the Republican ranking mem- Mr. SANDERS. Madam President, commitments that were made in that ber: will my colleague yield? budget now. Since the budget tracks so . . . [W]e also know revenues are going to Mr. KYL. Let me conclude my point carefully this year what we did last have to go up, if you’re going to maintain a on this, though I do appreciate the year, one has to ask the same ques- stable economy and a productive economy, intercession of my colleague earlier, tions: Is it going to be the same this because of the simple fact that you’re going acknowledging that folks on his side of year where on the death tax, for exam- to have to have this huge generation that the aisle would like to see a lot more ple, we are not able to get relief? As I has to be paid for. revenue because of the spending they said, I will propose an amendment that So the Senator’s reference to my would like to accomplish. I think takes a little bit better stab at quote was in the context of dealing Let me finish this point about the death tax relief. I would hope we could with the enormous imbalance between death tax. get support as we have from some of the revenues of this Government and The U.S. Treasury estimates that the our Democratic colleagues on that to the expenditures of this Government. estate tax reduces bequests by 14 per- demonstrate we want to do something My response was, yes, you are going to cent. Individuals are either choosing to substantive this year on that subject have to do something about revenue. save less or rely heavily on estate plan- rather than simply put it in the budget Yes, you are going to have to be tough ning, which is a large deadweight loss and claim we have done something on spending, and you are going to have to the economy. The death tax costs when, in fact, everybody knows that to reform the entitlement programs. more money to comply with than it just putting it in the budget does not I also said in this interview, none of raises in revenue. As I said before, actually change anything. which aired, that the first place to look there is a direct correlation between Let me close, Madam President, by for revenue is not a tax increase. The the two. saying—I will be happy to yield, but I first place to look for revenue is to go Economists Henry Aaron and Alicia will be happy to stop and let my col- after the tax gap, the difference be- Munnell estimated the amount spent league from Vermont just go ahead, if tween what is owed and what is paid, to on avoiding the death tax is approxi- he would like to do that—I want to ac- go after these offshore tax havens and mately equal to the amount collected. knowledge the hard work of the chair- abusive tax shelters. That was the con- The IRS estimates it takes about 38 man of the Budget Committee, who is text within which I said it. hours to complete form 706, the Federal here. I know he is very much com- Now, let me just indicate why this estate tax return. Estate planning for mitted to trying his very best. But at a matters. businesses can range from $5,000 to time when, as he acknowledged, many Mr. KYL. Madam President, might I $250,000 for family limited partnerships folks on his side of the aisle think the just ask the Senator to yield for 1 sec- and up to $1 million for closely held Federal Government needs more rev- ond? businesses. Fifty-two percent of the es- enue, we are just in a debate in which Mr. CONRAD. Yes. tates that filed a return were required we have to agree to disagree. He always Mr. KYL. I specifically indicated that to incur sizable legal, accounting, and does so in an amiable way, and I re- I did not know the context. other professional expenses even spect that. Mr. CONRAD. Yes. though they owed no tax. But I just believe it is the American Mr. KYL. Because I respect the Sen- So my point about the death tax is taxpayer who deserves more revenue, ator so much and was sure he would that almost no one thinks it is fair. Al- not the U.S. Government. Therefore, tell us what the context was, No. 1. most everybody acknowledges it should reluctantly, I will be opposing this No. 2, I certainly agree with the dis- be reformed. We have tried year after budget in the form it is in and hope we tinguished chairman of the Budget year to reform it. We have not been can make substantial changes to it in a Committee on both of the subsequent able to get the necessary votes to ac- true spirit of bipartisanship. two comments: one, that we should re- complish that, though virtually every I thank you. duce spending, and, two, that we Republican has supported reform. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The dis- should have entitlement reform. The chairman of the Finance Com- tinguished Senator from North Dakota. I would only make the point that I do mittee assured us we would work to- Mr. CONRAD. Madam President, the not see a lot of reduced spending and ward the goal of getting a bill this year Senator began by quoting me about the entitlement reform in the budget, but but now says there will not be a goal, need for more revenue and was kind perhaps the chairman could go on and and as to the ‘‘reform’’ in the budget, enough to indicate he did not know the discuss that as well. it turns out to be very little reform at context of it. I just thought I would I thank the Senator for yielding. all. In fact, it was the same ‘‘reform’’ provide the context because this was a Mr. CONRAD. I thank the Senator we passed last year as part of the budg- ‘‘60 Minutes’’ program interview, and for his courtesy. I would say to him, I et. As everybody knows, the budget is they were asking me in the context of do not believe entitlement reform is not law. The budget is a goal, and we the Comptroller General of the United ever going to happen—long-term enti- did not follow up on that goal. When I States warning the American people we tlement reform—in a 5-year budget res- tried to do so, I was asked to back off are on an utterly unsustainable fiscal olution. I think the only way we are for a future commitment, that we course because the debt is soaring be- going to get entitlement reform is a bi- would try to work on it this year. Now fore the baby boomers retire, and that partisan effort, and that is what Sen- we are told we are not going to do it we face a very serious consequence if ator GREGG, the ranking Republican, this year. we do not deal with it. and I have offered, which is a task So let’s just understand that what we So one question put to me was: force of 16 members, equally divided, would be doing in passing a budget that Do you think taxes ought to be raised? Republicans and Democrats, to come up with a long-term plan. theoretically has a proposal for death Senator CONRAD: tax reform is not serious. We are not I would be very candid. I think the I believe, first of all, we need more rev- going to have death tax reform. enue. truth is, it is going to require more For those who vote for the amend- revenue. Again, I would say before any The next sentence, which the Senator ment which will be offered here to sug- tax increase, the first place I would did not provide: gest there will be death tax reform, un- look are these places where people are derstand that if you do not follow it up We need to be tough on spending. not paying what they legitimately owe with real action to pass a bill that re- And the next sentence after that also when the vast majority of us do. forms the death tax, then this is noth- the Senator did not provide: Now, I must say, I used to be a tax ing more than an unkept promise. And we need to reform the entitlement commissioner. I was the elected tax So I urge my colleagues, as they programs. We need to do all of it. commissioner of my State. I was chair- think about this, to recognize we will Let me say, I am not alone in that man for several terms of the Multistate be held accountable. We now have a view. The ranking Republican on the Tax Commission. Senator DORGAN and year of experience following the Demo- Budget Committee said this at a hear- I are probably the only ones who have

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.039 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1808 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 audited the books and records of com- which benefits only the top three- Today, the United States has the panies and individuals. tenths of 1 percent of the population, highest rate of childhood poverty of I can tell you, there is loads of which means it will be the middle class any major country on Earth. We have money out there. One reason I was and working families who are obliged the highest infant mortality rate of elected to the U.S. Senate is I found for to have to pay that off over many any major country on Earth. We have my State lots of money that was not years. Sometimes when our friends on the highest overall poverty rate of any being paid over to the State of North the Republican side talk about fiscal major country on Earth. We have the Dakota because people were fudging. responsibility, I am not quite sure largest gap between the rich and the Large companies were fudging. Senator where they are coming from. poor, the most people behind bars, and DORGAN and I in part made our reputa- I thank the Presiding Officer, by the we are the only country in the indus- tions by going after them and very suc- way, for sitting in for me, and as soon trialized world not to have a national cessfully collecting money from tax- as I finish, I will take the chair. health care program. payers who were not paying what they However, I wish to say a budget—and Now, I wonder if my friends who get legitimately owed. the budget we are debating right now up and talk about the European Union I could go through chapter and verse on the floor of the Senate—is not just might on occasion mention the kind of of what I found as I examined the numbers. A budget is about the values health care systems that exist in every books and records of major companies. of our country and the priorities of our single one of those countries, which I have shown some of it on the floor of country. Within that context, it is im- guarantees health care to all of their the Senate: a little five-story building portant to understand what, in fact, is people. Try to describe the types of pa- in the Cayman Islands that claims it is going on in America right now. rental leave programs that exist when the home of 12,600 companies. Now, The simple reality is, the middle families have a baby. Americans could they are not doing business out of that class is collapsing. Everybody who gets not understand the extent to which little building in the Cayman Islands. into their car in the morning and pays those countries are ahead of us in They are doing monkey business. They $3.20 for a gallon of gas, then goes to terms of family values. are avoiding their taxes. work and finds that they are paying a So while the middle class in this I showed earlier another building in lot more for their health insurance country declines, while poverty in- the Cayman Islands: a five-story build- than they used to, understands they creases, while we have the highest in- ing we now know is being used by one don’t have a pension when at one time fant mortality rate of any other coun- company alone to dodge hundreds of they were promised a pension, under- try, while 17,000 Americans die because millions of taxes they owe to the stands that over 8 million Americans they don’t have any health insurance, United States. That is not right. since Bush has been President have there is another reality in American I would also say with respect to the lost their health insurance. society today, a reality that we should tax cuts that have been promoted by The middle class is in collapse. also be talking about, and that is the this administration, overwhelmingly Wages are going down for tens of mil- wealthiest people in this country have they have gone to the wealthiest lions of Americans. never had it so good since the 1920s. among us. Here, in 2007, those earning During the Bush administration, pri- According to Forbes magazine, the over $1 million a year on average got a vate sector job growth has averaged collective net worth of the wealthiest tax break of almost $120,000 a year. I do less than 50,000 per month compared 400 Americans increased by $290 billion not think that is right. I have wealthy with over 220,000 under the Clinton ad- last year. Four hundred families, $290 friends, as I think probably all of us in ministration. Since President Bush has billion increase last year, to $1.54 tril- this Chamber do, who have said to me: been in office, from 2001, nearly 5 mil- lion. In addition, the top 1 percent now I don’t need it. I don’t need that lion more Americans have slipped into owns more wealth than the bottom 90 $120,000 tax cut. I am much more wor- poverty. Median household income for percent. ried about the debt that is being sent working-age families is down by $2,500. Sometimes my Republican friends to our kids. Eight and a half million Americans talk about averages and so forth. That The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. lost their health insurance. Three mil- is not the reality. If you look at the CONRAD). The Senator from Vermont. lion lost their pensions. The annual American economy as one would look Mr. SANDERS. Mr. President, the trade deficit has more than doubled, at a football game or a baseball game, Senator from Arizona has just left the and over 3 million good-paying manu- the important question to ask is, who floor, unfortunately. But I did want to facturing jobs have been lost. The price is winning and who is losing? Well, let make two points. He has referred to of gas at the pump and home heating me be very clear. The middle class is something called the death tax, which oil has more than doubled, while losing. Working families are losing. is what we call the estate tax, which ExxonMobile made $40 billion in profits The people on top have never had it so was developed by President Teddy Roo- last year—more than any company in good since the 1920s. They are winning, sevelt way back when. What he forgot the history of the world. The personal and they are winning big time. To ig- to mention is that this estate tax—and savings rate recently dipped below nore that reality is to ignore what is as I understand it, the Senator from zero—something that hasn’t happened happening in American society. Arizona, if he had all of his wish ful- since the Great Depression. Home fore- The question then becomes, given filled would repeal the estate tax com- closures, of course, are now the highest that reality, where do we go from here? pletely—benefits only the wealthiest on record, turning the American dream What we do know is the President has three-tenths of 1 percent of the popu- of home ownership into an American given us his answer. The President has lation. nightmare for millions. brought forth a budget. He has told us So for all of the concerns about the The reason I raise these issues is, it that in his budget, we don’t have onerous impact of the estate tax, it is important to put the debate over the enough money to meet the health care benefits three-tenths of 1 percent. Mr. budget in a general context. This is not needs of this country. So at a time President, 99.7 percent of the families some abstraction. This is not some aca- when our health care system is disinte- will not benefit at all from the repeal demic exercise. We are talking about grating, the President has decided we of the estate tax. the priorities of the American people cannot adequately fund the Children’s The second point is, if the estate tax within the context of what is really Health Insurance Program and that we were completely repealed, the estimate happening to the middle-class and should cut Medicare and Medicaid by is over a 20-year period it would add working families. more than $600 billion over the next about $1 trillion to our debt—$1 tril- I found it interesting that my good decade. Think about it. The health care lion—which, like the war in Iraq, is friend from Arizona talked about the system is disintegrating, more and simply not paid for. European Union and tried to compare more people uninsured, more and more So when people talk about fiscal re- the United States in terms of tax pol- people having higher deductibles and sponsibility, I find it a little bit hard icy to other countries. Well, let me copayments. The President’s response: to understand how they could dump an- also compare the United States to Let’s make a terrible situation even other $1 trillion into our national debt, some other countries. worse.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.040 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1809 The President has said in his budget That is an absurd and obscene sense childcare and educational opportuni- that we need to reduce the number of of priorities. Fortunately, while the ties they need. children receiving childcare by 200,000 budget resolution we will be debating In my opinion, there are three major kids. Any mother, any parent under- this week is not perfect, it is a vast im- trends in American society that we stands that our current childcare situ- provement over the President’s budget. should be addressing in this budget ation in America today is an absolute I thank the Presiding Officer, Senator process. First, the fact that the United disaster. We say to single moms, go out CONRAD, for his hard work in giving us States has the most unequal distribu- and work, but we forget to ask what that budget. Instead of cutting back on tion of wealth and income of any major are those moms supposed to do with the educational needs of this country, country, and the gap between the very their 2-year-olds or their 3-year-olds? this budget resolution provides $5.4 bil- rich and everyone else is growing Should we leave them home alone in lion more than the President’s request wider. the apartment or should we provide for education, including the largest in- Second, as I mentioned earlier, we quality childcare for them? crease for elementary and secondary have the highest rate of childhood pov- Well, in Vermont and all over this education programs since 2002. Instead erty. Third—and I know the Presiding country, it is increasingly difficult for of cutting back on the needs of our vet- Officer has made this point over and families to secure quality, affordable erans—which has long been the history over again—we have a $9.2 trillion na- childcare, and the President’s brilliant of the Bush administration—this budg- tional debt, which is soaring to $10 tril- response is, let’s cut the number of et resolution provides a $3.2 billion in- lion; that under the Bush administra- children receiving childcare assistance crease over the President’s budget for tion we have seen a $3 trillion increase by 200,000. our veterans. Instead of ignoring the in the national debt. This is a debt that My friend from Arizona said: Are urgent need to reduce our dependence is unsustainable economically, and it is there some people who want to spend on foreign oil and fossil fuels, this a debt that is immoral because we are more money? And I said: Yes, I do. I do budget resolution provides $8.45 billion simply piling it up and leaving it to not want the children in this country to invest in clean energy, creating mil- our kids and our grandchildren. to have the dubious distinction of hav- lions of good-paying, green-collar jobs I think those are some of the trends ing the highest rate of poverty of any and energy efficiency. in American society that we should be major country on Earth, and I would Instead of cutting back on our Na- dealing with in this budget. This week, hope that every Member of the Senate tion’s enormous infrastructure needs— I will be offering an amendment which would be deeply humiliated and embar- can you imagine the engineers, civil is being cosponsored by Senators DUR- rassed about that reality taking place engineers, telling us we have over $1 BIN, MIKULSKI and BOXER, which is a within this country. There is a housing crisis all over trillion in unmet infrastructure needs, very simple amendment. It doesn’t go America—in Vermont and all over and this White House is refusing to as far as I personally would like it to America—and I am not just talking even acknowledge the severity of the go, but it is a step forward perhaps in about foreclosures. I am talking about problem and is asking the cities and changing the nature of the debate that the needs of working families to find towns that are hard pressed to come up we have on the floor of the Senate. It safe and affordable housing. The Presi- with the money? puts the needs of our kids, working dent’s response in the middle of this This budget resolution provides al- families, persons with disabilities, and crisis is, let’s provide 100,000 fewer sec- most $9 billion more than the Presi- senior citizens on fixed incomes ahead tion 8 housing vouchers to low-income dent for our roads, bridges, highways, of the wealthy few. That is what it families. sewers, and clean water improvement. does. The President, in his budget, has said It is not enough, but it is a step for- Specifically, this amendment would there is not enough money for special ward. I think over the long term, we restore the top income tax bracket to education. We made a promise to can do even better than that. We have 39.6 percent for households earning school districts all over America dec- made progress in this budget, and we more than $1 million per year. ades ago. We said: If you mainstream can do better. That is the only group of people im- kids—which I think is a great idea—we One area to which I will be paying pacted, households earning more than will pick up the very high cost of spe- particular attention is our children. It $1 million a year. That is three-tenths cial education. That was the promise. is not acceptable to me, as I said ear- of 1 percent of our population. We use Today, in Vermont and all over Amer- lier, that we have the highest rate of that revenue to address the urgent ica, more and more kids are coming in childhood poverty among our children. unmet needs of our kids, dealing with with special ed needs. School districts Where are all of those people who keep job creation and deficit reduction. are paying outrageously high property talking about family values? How do According to the Joint Tax Com- taxes to accommodate those kids. I they continue to ignore the reality mittee, restoring the top income tax think it is time to keep the promise we that, by far, we have the highest rate bracket for people making more than made to school districts and ade- of childhood poverty of any major $1 million to what it was in 2000, before quately fund special education. Yes, I country? Nearly one out of every five the Bush tax breaks for the wealthy, think we should do that. children in this country lives in pov- would increase revenue by $32.5 billion I think we should adequately fund erty. That is not a family value; that is over the next 3 years, including $10.8 Head Start so all of the families in a national disgrace. billion in fiscal year 2009 alone. America who want their kids to get a What happens to these kids when We have a choice in the Senate. We decent start so they are not behind they become adults? Many of them will can give $32.5 billion to the top three- when they enter the first grade have do well, but many of them will not. My tenths of 1 percent, or people making that opportunity. But somehow, in the colleagues may have recently seen an at least $1 million a year, including bil- midst of not funding the needs of our article in many of the papers talking lionaires, or else we can do something kids, as well as not funding housing, about the fact that the United States else with this money. Let me suggest not funding LIHEAP, not funding vir- has more people behind bars, at great we should do something else. Let me tually every need of low- and middle- expense—great expense for States and suggest that at a time when all of the income families, the President does for the Federal Government—than any Presidential candidates are talking have some money available. If you are other country; more than China in about change, change, change, when rich, the President has money avail- total numbers. I happen to believe the American people want to move our able for you. The President believes we there is a correlation between the fact country in a new direction, maybe the have enough money to provide $812 bil- that we have the highest rate of child- Senate can begin that journey of tak- lion in tax cuts for households earning hood poverty and kids who drop off the ing this Nation in a new way that is more than $1 million per year over the wagon when they are young—they drop more equitable, more fair, and begins next decade—not for our children, not out of society, they do drugs, they do to address longstanding social needs. for the homeless, not for the hungry, destructive activity, they end up in Here is the option: $32.5 billion more but for people who are earning over $1 jail, and we spend $50,000 to keep them in tax relief for millionaires and bil- million a year. in jail—rather than providing the lionaires—and I suspect that many of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.042 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1810 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 our friends on the Republican side cation and has never, I believe, gotten Our budget changes that. It focuses think that is a great idea—or there is over 18 or 19 percent. So I thank the on balancing the budget by 2012 and another option. It is $10 billion over a Senator for the amendment he will 2013. It provides middle-class tax cuts 3-year period to go into the program of offer later. so we can make sure the folks who are special ed. This will not only allow I thank the Budget Committee chair- trying to hold things together—every- school districts the opportunity to bet- man also who is someone who does body talks about middle-class families ter educate kids with special ed needs, such an extraordinary job on a daily and middle-class people being squeezed, it will also lower property taxes and basis on such a wide range of issues. seeing gas prices and health care and local taxes. Most importantly, it will There is no one more committed to the childcare costs go up. Yet the reality keep the promise that was made to long-term fiscal health of the country, is, unfortunately, the budget put for- school districts all over this country. no one more committed to getting our ward by the President doesn’t help The Federal Government made a priorities right, no one who works them at all. I am proud to say we have promise that it would fund 40 percent more effectively across the aisle to a budget that, in fact, invests in Amer- of the cost of special ed. Unfortunately, bring people together to do the right ica. I want to speak to one piece of today we are about at 17 percent. If you thing. So I thank our distinguished col- that. want to raise our credibility, let’s keep league, the chairman of the Budget Last year, we set up three main pri- the promise we made to school dis- Committee, for all of his incredible orities for our budget, and I was very tricts all over America and take care of leadership and pointing us in the right proud of those—one to fully fund vet- some of our most vulnerable kids. So direction and creating a budget resolu- erans health care and make sure we are $10 billion goes to that. tion that I am proud of. keeping the promises to the veterans of Then this amendment would also in- Mr. CONRAD. Will the Senator yield? America. We did it last year, and we crease Head Start by $5 billion over the Ms. STABENOW. Yes. are doing it again this year. We will next 3 years. Every study indicates Mr. CONRAD. I thank the distin- continue, as long as we are in the ma- that Head Start works. It gives kids, guished Senator from Michigan, who is jority, to make sure that is the case. who otherwise don’t have the intellec- an incredibly valuable member of the We want to make sure people have the tual and emotional environment, the Budget Committee, and also incredibly opportunity to go to college. We passed chance to do well when they get to important member of the Finance the largest package since the GI bill school. It is a good investment. It is Committee and the Agriculture Com- after World War II. No. 3 was children’s better to invest $5 billion in Head Start mittee. We are able to serve on three health insurance, which we passed on a than it would be in jails. committees together, and that is rare bipartisan basis. It was an extraor- This amendment would provide a $4 around here. My admiration for her dinary effort. We actually had the billion increase for the Child Care De- grows every day. In terms of her lead- votes to overturn a Presidential veto velopment Block Grant Program so ership, we could not have produced a and could not do that in the House of that working families all over this budget resolution as responsible as this Representatives. We added 10 million country will have a fair shot at trying one, nor one that embraces the needs of children to the Children’s Health Insur- to find affordable childcare. the American people and their values ance Program, which gives them the This amendment puts a $3.5 billion as closely as this one without the lead- opportunity to make sure their chil- increase into the Food Stamp Program. ership of the Senator from Michigan. I dren have health insurance. In my view, hunger in America is not wanted to tell her how much I appre- This year, we continue those things, something we should be about. This ciate that. but we have three more items we have will take us a small step toward ad- Ms. STABENOW. I thank the Sen- picked. Mr. President, just to be sim- dressing hunger. ator. That means a lot. ple, what I would say is our priorities This amendment would put $4 billion Mr. President, I am going to take a are jobs, jobs, jobs. I can tell you, com- into the LIHEAP program because no- few minutes because I expect to have ing from the great State of Michigan, body in America should go cold in the multiple opportunities in which to par- that is certainly what we want our winter or die of heat exposure when the ticipate and talk about various parts of focus to be on. We are talking about temperature gets to 120 and they don’t the budget resolution that I believe re- middle-income families who are strug- have an air conditioner. flect the values and priorities of the gling. And the best stimulus that you This amendment would also provide American people. That is what budgets can possibly give somebody is a good- $3 billion for school construction, and are. That is what our own individual paying job so they can pay their bills, it would create good-paying jobs in the budgets are. take care of their family, send their process and make sure our kids have When we look at our checkbooks and kids to college, and be able to have the good schools in which to learn. where we spend our money, we hope it American dream. I am very proud of Also, this amendment would reduce reflects the values we want to project. the fact that our budget focuses on the deficit by $3 billion. So that is Sometimes it does and sometimes it three priorities: jobs, jobs, jobs. How? what we do. We reduce the deficit, pro- doesn’t in my own budget, my own We have three pieces in our budget. tect our children, and protect the most checkbook. But the reality is, that is We focus on green-collar jobs. I am vulnerable people. That is one option. our job in terms of the Federal budget very proud of the fact that the initia- Or we give another $32 billion in tax re- and where we invest that makes sense tive I put forward is incorporated. The lief to people who don’t need it. I think for American families. Presiding Officer is passionate about the choice is pretty clear. I hope this I have to say that listening to col- pieces of this legislation as well. We amendment will receive widespread leagues tonight, as I had the oppor- know there is a new economy. We know support. tunity to preside—colleagues on the that alternative energy and moving I yield the floor. other side of the aisle—I heard more of forward in ways that will address glob- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. the same, unfortunately, that we have al warming and stop our dependence on SANDERS). The Senator from Michigan seen for the last 8 years. Six of those foreign oil can create jobs as well. So is recognized. eight years have been dominated by we have a major new initiative in this Ms. STABENOW. First, I thank our colleagues on the other side of the bill for green-collar jobs. colleague from Vermont, who is pas- aisle, by a Republican President and a Secondly, jobs rebuilding America— sionate and cares very deeply about Republican Congress. Unfortunately, in water projects, sewers, roads, bridges. people in the country, about their fu- my mind, when we talk about what We are at a point in our country where ture, and about the children. I could they are going to propose, in totality we have an aging infrastructure. A lot not agree more with him about what what we see is more debt. We see more of we baby boomers are aging but at has been the underfunding of a very tax cuts for the wealthiest among us, the same time so is the infrastructure important investment, and that is spe- more spending in Iraq and, at the same around us. The great thing about in- cial education. time, we see less investment in Amer- vesting and rebuilding America is that The Federal Government was sup- ica. That is exactly the opposite of these are not jobs you can outsource to posed to pay 40 percent of special edu- what we ought to be doing. another country; these are jobs right

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.043 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1811 here in America—good-paying jobs. job training program to refocus on num, what would he like for his kids? That is our second priority. those jobs we know are there for the What would he like for us to be talking Our third priority is to continue our future. Again, the Presiding Officer has about for the future? Down the hall focus on education and job training. We been a passionate advocate, and I know were a whole lot of other people just know we need to refocus on job train- he believes strongly that jobs and en- like him. He is 61 years old. He is not ing and on those who lost jobs because ergy and focusing on global warming thinking about himself as he lays there of trade by fully funding trade adjust- and jobs can go together, and that is in the hospital. He is thinking about ment assistance for people to go back what this does. This says we are going what is the future for his grandkids. to school and gain new opportunities. to take this first step to focus on the I visited with one of my longest term Mr. President, we are saying jobs, American people. friends this weekend. He is not think- jobs, jobs. I want to focus specifically What I will say again, as we go for- ing about himself right now. He is on the piece in which I have been most ward, there are many items that are in thinking about his grandkids. He has involved. This is very exciting. We this budget that are very important. one and one on the way, going to be de- passed an energy bill last year with a But what I am very proud of is the fact livered this next weekend. He didn’t number of programs in it that were not that we have put forward a budget res- mention one thing about himself. He funded but that were great ideas. This olution with three very simple prior- mentioned about what the future was year, we come back and say let’s make ities: jobs, jobs, jobs. And that is right for his kids. those things a reality in this budget. where the American people are. People I think about the ladies whom I saw Energy efficiency and conservation: want American jobs where they can this morning in my medical office Providing over $1.1 billion for State care for their families, they can have about to have babies. Their hopes and and local communities to not only the dignity of work, they can have their dreams are about the generation focus on energy efficiency and con- good wages and be able to have an that is to come, about how this miracle servation but buildings and weatheriza- American dream. This budget resolu- birth is going to take place over the tion. There is a huge amount of energy tion is laser-focused on that priority. next couple of weeks for both these la- savings to be had by focusing in this I thank the Chair. dies. One is named Natalie and one is area. It also creates lots and lots of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- named Brooke; one is a first-time jobs. It will put people to work ator from Oklahoma. mom, the other is a second-time mom. weatherizing buildings and focusing on Mr. COBURN. Mr. President, I am The things they are looking forward to energy efficiency. going to spend a few minutes tonight with their children are totally depend- Advanced batteries: For us to go on some observations. My hope is over ent on whether we act as adults in this where we want to go in terms of new the next couple of days to outline body. alternative fuel vehicles, it involves fo- something that has never been done on I have just been struck at how far off cusing on advanced battery tech- the Senate floor before, and that is to the mark we are. nology. We are doing that but not near- discuss where we as a body fail. We are I think KENT CONRAD is a great guy. ly as fast as other countries. In the all the time telling the American peo- I looked at what he did last year. He is American budget last year, there was ple what we do great or how bad the a pretty fiscally conservative guy. $22 million. Yet you can look over to other side is, but rarely do we take a KENT sponsored less than $20 billion China, Japan, and South Korea where look at ourselves and say: What is worth of new spending over the next 5 hundreds of millions of dollars are going on? What are the problems we years, total sponsorships. Many times being spent. As a result of that, we see face? in the last 3 or 4 years, we have had de- very tangible things happening. When I had a great weekend this weekend bates about how we handle the prob- Ford Motor Company came forward in Oklahoma. Part of Oklahoma got lems. The differences between us are with the first Ford Escape hybrid, an snow, part of it had 65 degrees and Sun not that great. What guides us, though, American SUV hybrid, unfortunately, and no wind. But I had some experi- and what is destroying our country, I even though the brain power came ences I want to share because I think fear, is the fact that we are putting po- from here and the engineering came they are pertinent and also poignant to litical parties and the benefits of the from here, the battery came from the issue we are discussing. political budget ahead of the best in- Japan because we weren’t making I also note I have been listening to terests of our kids. them here. the debate all afternoon, and the de- One of the things I hope to do tomor- We don’t want to change from de- bate is nothing but finger-pointing— row is to outline for the American pub- pendence on foreign oil to a dependence one budget, the other budget, how bad lic and this body everything I found in on foreign technology. So investing in somebody is, what somebody didn’t do, the last 3 years in terms of waste on an the future in battery technology is in- what somebody wants to do. It strikes annualized basis. I want my colleagues credibly important, not only for vehi- me that as I reflect on the people to hear that again. Everything I have cles but battery storage is critical for whom I saw this weekend and their found in terms of waste where we do such things as winds turbines, solar, hopes and dreams, most of this debate not do it right, where we are wasting and other areas where we need to be does not have anything to do with taxpayers’ dollars every year, and I can able to move forward with alternative them. Most of this debate has to do conservatively, just on what I found energy. Battery storage is critical. I with us, which is exactly the opposite and I can fully document—I want you am proud that we put forward for the reason of why we were sent here. What to understand that, Mr. President; it is first time an aggressive investment in we have heard is a partisan debate, par- not TOM COBURN’s opinion, it is the innovation and production here at tisanship based on parties, not par- opinion of the GAO, the CBO, oversight home. tisanship based on principles, not par- committees, and other committees of Retooling older plants. As we have tisanship based on children, not par- Congress that are documenting what I new standards for fuel efficiency com- tisanship based on the future, but who am about to share. ing into play, we want to make sure we can twang it, who can manipulate it, What I am going to share tomorrow are retooling our old plants to keep who can create doubt and undermine is how we fail because we are talking American jobs here, biofuel production someone else’s position. about a budget today—I told KENT and access, meaning infrastructure. I I traveled to Oklahoma City. My CONRAD, I am not out to game his come from a State where we are grow- brother has been in the hospital for 16 budget. It will spend more money. That ing the biofuels and making the auto- days. He had a major operation called is not a whole lot different from what mobiles. If you cannot drive up to the Whipple—it takes a long time to get we have been doing. But how dare we service station and fuel with E–85 or over it—for pancreatic carcinoma. spend another penny when I can docu- biofuel, it is not going to matter in the That is what they do the operation for. ment, and none of my colleagues can end. He has four kids and four grandkids refute, $366 billion a year of waste or So being able to have that infrastruc- and one on the way. I got to thinking, fraud, $366 billion a year. Let me ex- ture and investment in infrastructure as he lay there with an NG tube in him plain what that means to the average is absolutely critical. Finally, a green and a feeding tube through his jeju- consumer.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.044 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1812 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 If you are at home today and you are and their children? What is going to disability fraud. There is another $1 in the 25-percent tax bracket in terms happen to them? billion in improper payments. Think of income tax, what that means is that We are about this far from losing the about this. Just $2.5 billion. Just $2.5 about 9 percent of the money you pay, triple-A credit rating on our country, billion. Just 2,500 millions. Just 2,500 we blow. So that is one-third, that is 9 on our bonds. At the same time, we see millions or 2,500,000 thousands. They out of the 28 percent, one-third of all that in the last 8 years, the price of are pretty hard numbers to get our the money you pay to the Federal Gov- gold relative to the dollar is fourfold. hands on. ernment, not counting your Social Se- What does that tell us? Is there a So anyhow, in the next few days, I curity and Medicare taxes, but of your shortage of gold? No. Is there a fourfold am going to list out one by one, I am income taxes, one-third of it, we blow. increase in the demand for gold for in- going to go through everything we The interesting thing is that not dustrial uses? No. It is a flight to safe- have seen in the last 3 years that con- since 1995 has the Congress done any ty because many people in the world do tinues daily in this Federal Govern- rescission spending. Let me explain not believe we are going to be able to ment that this body won’t attack. what that is. That is the Congress pay back the $79 trillion of unfunded li- When we offer amendments in this looks at our budget and says: Are there abilities we have left. body, they are either accepted so they any areas where we can save money, So as we come to a budget for the can be thrown out in conference when where we are not doing well, where we United States and we pass one—which they actually do something, such as can be more efficient, where we can im- we will, probably—we do it absent the the census amendment that was in the prove things? We haven’t had a rescis- light of looking at $360 billion-plus Senate. We are now going to be asked sion package since 1995. That is 13 that is wasted every year—$360 billion. for about $2 billion more for the census years that we have not had a rescission People might say: What is that? It is even though we have been saying all package. There are lots of reasons for pretty easy. How about Medicare fraud, along there was a problem there. We ig- that, none of them good. It does not $80 billion a year. How about Medicare nored it, the House conferees with the matter which party is in control. There improper payments? We pay people Senate conferees ignored it, and now has not been a rescission package for 13 when they do not deserve to be paid— we are going to spend $2 billion more. years. So it is not about parties. It is not fraud, just incompetency—$10 bil- What we are going to do is outline not about gaming somebody because lion a year. There is $90 billion in one thoroughly what just one office, just somebody is a Democrat or somebody program. There is nothing in this budg- one Senate office, has found over 3 is a Republican. Our problems in our et that fixes that situation. There was years, and it is all going to be fully Nation today are much more serious nothing in the Republican budgets that documented, with footnotes, so you can than partisanship. They are much fixed that. Why not? I know the answer see exactly where it came from. It is greater than the beneficial effects of to why not. The answer to why not is going to be indisputable. winning an election based on how you because we were too busy making po- Now ask yourself, if you are an can make somebody else look lousy. litical games, political strokes. We American out there struggling to pay One of the important things I hope were too busy being partisan. The time your gas and things are not looking will come out as we go through this in for partisanship in our country is past. great for the next 6 months for you, the next couple of days is whether we We may not believe that, but history is what would you think if all the Sen- really care about what is going to hap- going to show it. ators did that and we really did get rid pen. We can look at the stock market— David Walker, the Comptroller Gen- of all the waste, fraud, and abuse in the it has weak knees today; look at the eral of the United States, one of the Federal Government, or at least a price of commodities—it is rising. fairest, most openminded men I believe meaningful component of it, and that There is no secret we are in a time of I have ever met in my life, on Wednes- we really probably could cut $600 bil- economic weakness. Depression is de- day is leaving that position. Why is he lion out of our budget, which would scribed as two quarters successively. doing that? He has a guaranteed job mean we could either—if you wanted a We are probably there. Nobody knows. until 2012, a great job, head of an agen- bigger Government, you could do more, Nobody has a crystal ball to know that. cy that really is stellar in what it does or if you wanted to pay fewer taxes, But the fact is, it is what we are leav- in its performance. Why is he leaving you could pay less? But most impor- ing right now for these two, Brooke that position? Because he is scared to tantly, we could live up to the heritage and Natalie’s children who are going to death for our country because nobody that is ours, which is creating an op- be born in the next 3 weeks. What do is listening in positions of power. No- portunity for our children and our we leave them? We are leaving them a body is paying attention to the grandchildren in the future. gift, and the gift is debtor’s prison. unsustainable course on which we find I am convinced that Americans Let me say that again. I don’t say ourselves. We are not. We haven’t in aren’t really asking for higher taxes. that lightly. We are leaving them a the budget. We didn’t in our budget. We What they are asking for is smart gift. According to the Government Ac- are not. We don’t on the supplementals spending, hard work by us to make countability Office, if you are born to- that come through here to ‘‘fund the sure what we spend is worth it. What morrow, you inherit $400,000 of un- war’’ because we load up $20 billion to they are asking for is no more ear- funded liabilities. Does anybody know $30 billion more debt right on top of marks. That is what 85 percent of them anybody who is working and struggling our kids. are asking for. And they are asking for and making a middle-class income or We hear all these false numbers. Yes, no more bridges to nowhere and what even an upper income who is going to I said false. The budget numbers are it symbolizes in terms of excess, in be able to afford that amount? Just games. The President’s numbers about terms of a lack of common sense or a paying the interest on it is $28,000 a the deficit are wrong. The Budget Com- lack of caring. I don’t know which it is, year, and you have to absorb that by mittee’s numbers about the deficit are but the fact is, we are on a collision the time you get old enough to work. wrong. They are not realistic. They do course that is going to undermine the So we are talking about another $6,000 not take into account the fact that we future of this country. worth of interest before they start pay- are going to steal about $170 billion Will Durant, a historian, said that ing off any principal. So, in essence, worth of Social Security money this democracies never fail and are never the heritage through our incom- year—I think $163 billion is the accu- collapsed from without until they have petence, our bickering, our partisan- rate number. We are going to write an moral decay that causes the collapse ship because we have to show some- IOU, and then we are not going to tell from within. When we are spending the body up, the heritage is every kid who the American public that we increased money of our grandchildren today and is born, by the time they get a chance the debt another $163 billion. We are not doing anything about the waste we to work, is going to be accumulating just going to pass that along to our have in our budget, the question has to about $1 million worth of debt. The kids. be asked: Are we already there? Have question we have to ask ourselves is, I have some little things for you to we already risen to the point where the What happens to them? What happens think about as we outline this. There is political class, the political elites care to the dream of a Brooke or a Natalie $2.5 billion a year in Social Security so much about their positions—both

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.046 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1813 parties—that they are willing to throw does that mean? Here is what it means. ment, it needs aggressive oversight, the future of the next two generations It means $3,000 for every family. That and it needs this $360 billion worth of of this great country under the bus? is what we are wasting. Three thousand waste eliminated in this budget. And if The next year is critical for this Na- dollars for every family in this country we pass this budget or any other budg- tion, as we see what happened today in we are blowing, that we are throwing et—whether my party offered one or the stock market, another lower earn- away because we care more about par- not, even the President’s budget—if we ings, as we see consumer confidence de- tisanship than we do the future. We pass any budget that doesn’t take this cline. Wouldn’t it be nice if the Senate care more about making the executive into account, what we are doing is spit- stood up to the challenge that is facing branch look bad than we do the future. ting all over the hopes and dreams of this country and did so without the We care more about our earmarks than the youngest Americans in our coun- first partisan word about parties and we do the future. try. We are saying: You don’t count. said: Let’s fix it. Let’s fix it. There is a legitimate role for the We got ours, you will have to worry I have had an ongoing study since I Federal Government to have the Sen- about getting yours. We will take, you have been in Government to ask Fed- ate and the House direct spending. will have to give. And, oh, by the way, eral employees this question, and I That is not the dispute. But the way we are sorry there is not going to be have never had a different answer. And you do it best is through oversight, not enough resources left for you to have a the question is this: If you are a Fed- through earmarking. The way you do it college education or to own a home or eral employee, no matter where you best is to know exactly what is hap- for us to defend ourselves or for you to work, what branch you work in, or pening rather than earmarking it. The have health care like many of us are what you do, if you had to, tomorrow, gateway drug to overspending since going to have as we wander off at 65, for the sake of our future, become 5 1998 has been earmarks because when knowing that you are going to be percent more efficient—in other words, you earmark, you don’t vote against working hard through increased pay- not spend $1 out of $20—could you do bills. What happens is, the next time roll taxes just to pay for the promises it? Do you realize I have asked that you earmark, the committee chairman that we couldn’t make efficient and question thousands of times, and I have comes up to you and says: You didn’t that we overpromised. never been told no. I have never been vote for my bill last time. Sorry, I So, Mr. President, I know I have car- told no. can’t fill a thing. So we have this al- ried on some tonight, but I think our Well, if that is the case, why aren’t problems are much more severe than we doing it, when we are going to have most extortion-like process whereas earmarks are granted to you if you what our behavior would deem. I think a $607 billion deficit? We are going to the degree of difficulty we find our- be at $10 trillion of debt at the end of vote for a bill. You are not even look- ing at the total bill, you are looking at selves in today is directly attributable this year. That is real debt. That to our lack of courage. doesn’t talk about unfunded liabilities, the earmarks. Do our children deserve better? Are We are more interested in not offend- which are $79 trillion. So we have $10 ing somebody than we are securing our trillion worth of debt, $79 trillion under they worth our sacrifice? Is it really worth it for us to not necessarily get kids’ and grandkids’ future. That is not infinity, of unfunded liabilities, and we something I want to be accused of. So don’t talk about that. what we want if we can secure the fu- ture? I am having trouble knowing I will take the ridicule of this body for How is it that we find ourselves al- being ‘‘Doctor No,’’ for saying: We are lowing such things as the military to whether this body really believes that. We have outlined to appropriations not going to spend more money on new continue to hang on to buildings they things, we are not going to have more committees, everybody has been sent a do not want to the tune of $2 billion to programs until we can pay for the pro- report of everything we have found in $3 billion a year just in maintenance grams we have. costs? How is it that we have $18 bil- the last 3 years, and it has been essen- And if it takes one person saying: I lion worth of buildings we don’t want tially ignored because we are too inter- am not going to agree to pass bills but we can’t sell because of the road- ested in making sure we beat the path under unanimous consent, I am not blocks we have put in the way to be to looking good at home. going to agree to not have the oppor- When you take an oath to be a U.S. able to sell them? How is it that the tunity to amend them, then so be it. Pentagon pays performance bonuses of Senator—and I don’t think this is said The $3,000 per family per year is $8 billion a year to companies that often enough—there is nothing in that enough to make a difference, a big dif- don’t meet the requirements of per- oath that says anything about your ference, in their future. I think formance bonuses? How is it that we State. I am not here to represent the Brooke’s and Natalie’s babies are are allowing that to continue to hap- vital interests of Oklahoma. I was worth it. I do not know about you all. pen? We have known of that for 3 elected by Oklahomans to represent I am ready to give up something. Most years. Why is it happening? the vital interests of this country. And of all, I am willing to give up my seat By the way, what is the big stir right when I get confused about where my in the Senate for doing what I think is now? The big stir is Boeing didn’t get loyalties lie, our country suffers, and right in the long term for our country. the contract and Lockheed—or EADS that is exactly what is happening to us If I do what is politically expedient did. Nobody is asking the right ques- right now. and win reelection, what good is it if I tion on that. It doesn’t matter who got We have gone from 600 earmarks in have not fixed the very real problems the contract. It is a cost-plus contract. 1998 to a high of 14,870, almost 12,000 that are facing our country? It is time If we don’t know what we want in a re- last year. What is going on? Where is for a gut check in this country. It is fueling tanker now after 8 years of the common sense? People from time for the American people to look studying it, we are never going to Vermont to Oklahoma to California to at you, us, and say: Are you really know. So a $35 billion contract is going New Mexico to Montana, they know doing for us, or are you really doing for to become a $45 billion contract, just better. So the special interests of the you? My accusation is too often we do like all the rest of them. Instead, we few are being advantaged while we sac- for us and not for the generations to ought to be insisting, if you are doing rifice those that come after us. Now, come. business with the Federal Government that is a firm indictment. But you I will be back to outline in detail and making money, you ought to take can’t continue to waste $360 billion a where this $360 million—billion; let me some risk. There ought to be no more year, ignore oversight, not do anything make sure everyone understands—$360 cost-plus contracts on procurements about it, and then puff up and say—Re- billion worth of waste, fraud, and abuse like that. There ought to be none. Who- publican and Democrat—I am going to occurs every year in our budget, and ever has that contract ought to take pass a budget and I am never going to we have done nothing. Let me say it part of the risk for the American peo- look at any of that. again: We have done nothing about it. ple because they are having a great Well, that is exactly what my party How dare we talk about raising benefit in terms of the profits they are has done. That is exactly what the taxes. How dare we talk about any- going to make. party in charge today is doing. We are thing except doing the business that So we have a lot in front of us. What ignoring the very real fact that this should be at hand, which is being good is $350 billion in annual waste? What Government needs hands-on manage- stewards of our children’s future.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.047 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1814 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 I yield the floor, and I suggest the ab- ing years and ensure that seniors can During the past 6 years, Colombia’s sence of a quorum. find safe, affordable housing. Accord- economic growth, one of the fastest in The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ingly, I am pleased to join Senator Latin America, has helped usher in a clerk will call the roll. SCHUMER in introducing the section 202 new era of unprecedented stability for The bill clerk proceeded to call the Supportive Housing for the Elderly Act that country—kidnappings, once ramp- roll. of 2008. Our legislation would help pro- ant, have dropped sharply, down nearly Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- mote the construction of new senior 90 percent since 1999; and the once sky- imous consent that the order for the housing facilities as well as preserve high murder rate has plummeted to its quorum call be rescinded. and improve upon existing facilities. lowest in almost 20 years. The FTA The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The legislation would also support the signed between our two countries in- objection, it is so ordered. conversion of existing facilities into cludes environmental standards as well Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- assisted living facilities that provide a as worker protections and safeguards imous consent that on Tuesday, March wide variety of additional supportive similar to the trade pact with Peru, 11, when the Senate resumes consider- health and social services. Under cur- which enjoyed bipartisan support. ation of S. Con. Res. 70, the concurrent rent law, these processes are time con- Colombia’s own private sector unions resolution on the budget, there be de- suming, bureaucratic, and far too often have endorsed the agreement. An ex- bate only, with no amendments in require waivers and special permission tension on the Andean Trade Pref- order, until the Senate recesses for the from HUD to complete. This legislation erence Act is crucial given that the Co- party conference meetings, and that also provides priority consideration for lombia FTA has not been ratified by the recess time on Tuesday be charged our homeless seniors seeking a place to the Congress, and would help leverage equally against each side. We will re- call their own. With this legislation, our considerable aid commitment, en- cess at 12:30 and come back at 2:15. we hope to reduce current impediments suring Colombia remains on its path to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without and increase the availability of afford- becoming a secure and prosperous na- objection, it is so ordered. able and supportive housing for our na- tion. Our trade preferences for Bolivia and f tions most vulnerable seniors. I want to thank the American Asso- Ecuador are important because both MORNING BUSINESS ciation of Homes and Services for the countries have elected leaders whose Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- Aging as well as the Wisconsin Associa- record and rhetoric cast serious doubt imous consent that we now proceed to tion of Homes and Services for the on their commitment to market-based a period of morning business with Sen- Aging for being champions of this leg- economic policies. For this reason, it is ators allowed to speak for up to 10 min- islation and for working with us to de- important for the United States to maintain a strong relationship with utes each. velop a comprehensive bill that will the constructive forces in these coun- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without help meet the growing need for senior tries. We want to encourage those who objection, it is so ordered. housing in this Nation. are working for economic liberaliza- f Senior citizens deserve to have hous- tion and reforms that promote foreign SUPPORTIVE HOUSING FOR THE ing that will help them maintain their independence. They do not deserve to investment and the creation of jobs. ELDERLY We want to support those who are pur- end up homeless with no where to turn suing policies that will improve social Mr. KOHL. Mr. President, I rise because they are stuck on long waiting and economic development in health today to speak about S. 2736, Section lists. This Nation must do a better job and education and advance the welfare 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly at helping Americans have a place to for the less fortunate. It is in these Act of 2008 introduced with my col- call home during their golden years. I countries where the effect of greater, league Senator CHARLES SCHUMER. The hope my colleagues will join me in my and not lesser, engagement will yield HUD section 202 Supportive Housing effort to do so. for the Elderly Program is the only the highest long term benefits. f program that provides capital grants The ability to benefit from trade to nonprofit community organizations ANDEAN TRADE PREFERENCE ACT preferences is difficult in an environ- for the development of supportive Mr. LUGAR. Mr. President, on Feb- ment in which the rule of law is com- ing under severe attack. Both coun- housing and rental assistance exclu- ruary 28, 2008 we ratified the Andean tries are facing challenges on this sively for low-income seniors. This pro- Trade Preference Act, ATPA. Histori- front, with weakened justice systems gram provides supportive services cou- cally, these preferences have been deci- that struggle to uphold the law. In this pled with housing to allow seniors to sive in encouraging both development regard, an environment that supports remain safely in their homes and age in and liberalization in a key region. Re- free economic exchange and account- place. Access to supportive services re- newing them is an important step in able governance is weakened by the in- duces the occurrence of costly nursing our relations with the region, but we ability of these governments to imple- home stays and helps save both seniors should also be realistic, and sophisti- and the Federal Government money. ment the law. cated, in our expectations for what Both Bolivia and Ecuador have much There are over 300,000 seniors living these preferences can accomplish. As to gain by focusing on strengthening in 6,000 section 202 developments across we look at where each of the four An- and depoliticizing the rule of law. the country. Unfortunately, the pro- dean nations stands today, we see that Without an improvement on the legal gram is far from meeting the growing they are at very different stages of de- front in these countries, the potential demand. Approximately 730,000 addi- velopment, politically and economi- for these trade preferences to serve as tional senior housing units will be cally, so the preferences will impact development tools is limited. needed by 2020 to address the future each country differently. It is my hope that 10 months from housing needs of low-income seniors. Peru has made commendable strides now, when we again address the issue Currently, there are 10 seniors vying in its economic liberalization process of preferences for the Andean coun- for each unit that becomes available. while remaining a trustworthy coun- tries, we will be well into the imple- This leaves many seniors waiting years terpart on many nontrade matters. mentation of FTAs with Peru and Co- before finding a home. To complicate Earlier this year we cemented our rela- lombia and at the same time wit- matters, we are losing older section 202 tionship through ratification of a Free nessing an improved commitment in properties in exchange for high priced Trade Agreement, FTA. As we go Ecuador and Bolivia to the reforms condominiums and apartments. As a through the FTA implementation proc- that are essential to getting the most result, many seniors currently partici- ess, preferences are still necessary to out of trade preference legislation. pating in the program could end up minimize disruption to current com- f homeless. mercial flows between the United Congress should act now to plan ap- States and Peru. THE MATTHEW SHEPARD ACT propriately for the increased demand Colombia has made outstanding Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise that will exist for housing in the com- progress politically and economically. today to speak about the need for hate

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:37 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.049 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1815 crimes legislation. Each Congress, Sen- It is now up to Congress to ensure tections for parents with disabilities. ator KENNEDY and I introduce hate that the Department of Defense treats Idaho State law now prohibits the re- crimes legislation that would strength- our soldiers fairly. Our troops have moval of a child from a home or the de- en and add new categories to current courageously put themselves in harm’s nial of visitations solely because of a hate crimes law, sending a signal that way and it is incumbent upon our gov- parent’s disability. Idaho was the first violence of any kind is unacceptable in ernment to ensure that they receive State in the Nation to pass equal child our society. Likewise, each Congress I the best possible care when they re- custody rights for parents with disabil- have come to the floor to highlight a turn. ities in all areas of child custody. separate hate crime that has occurred Many of us on Capitol Hill have As the executive director of the in our country. pledged to continue to fight to elimi- Idaho State Independent Living Coun- On the night of February 22, 2008, 17- nate the misuse of personality dis- cil, Kelly made it his priority to fight year-old Simmie Lewis Williams, Jr., charges through all legislative and ad- for equal rights and equal protection was gunned down in his hometown of ministrative means at our disposal. under the law for those with disabil- Fort Lauderdale, FL. The shooting oc- I thank Mr. Kors for his outstanding ities, especially in areas of fair housing curred on a stretch of road known by work and congratulate him on his ac- and healthcare. His outreach and advo- police to be frequented by transves- complishments.∑ cacy has gone beyond just the State tites. Simmie, openly gay, had been f level as well—Kelly has testified before Congress on issues facing individuals dressed as a woman the night of his HONORING KELLY BUCKLAND murder. He was known for being soft- with disabilities in his capacity as ∑ spoken and kind. Witnesses say that Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, our out- president of the National Independent Simmie became engaged in a heated ar- look on life and the effect we have on Living Council. gument with two men dressed in dark others is largely dependent upon how Kelly has received several local and clothing before the shots were fired. we respond to our life experiences. We national awards. In 2000, he received Simmie’s mother buried her son a week can choose to make a difference in our the University of Idaho’s President’s later. The funeral was, in part, paid for world, or sit back and let others blaze Medallion. Kelly was honored with the by members of the local gay commu- trails. As I get older, I am more and 2005 Hewlett-Packard Company Award nity. Police are considering the murder more convinced that these choices have for Distinguished Leadership in Human as a bias-motivated crime. little to do with our physical capabili- Rights and, in 2007, Kelly was honored I believe that the Government’s first ties or the circumstances of our up- at the Kennedy Center with induction duty is to defend its citizens, to defend bringing. I meet people who have over- into the Spinal Cord Injury Hall of them against the harms that come out come seemingly monumental chal- Fame for significant contributions to of hate. Federal laws intended to pro- lenges and live to make a difference in quality of life and advancements to- tect individuals from heinous and vio- the lives of others. In the same man- ward a better future for all individuals lent crimes motivated by hate are woe- ner, I meet those with observably few with spinal cord injury or disease. fully inadequate. This legislation challenges who are content to sit on One of Kelly’s profound strengths is would better equip the Government to the sidelines. A most remarkable ex- unique ability to perceive and appre- fulfill its most important obligation by ample of someone who has responded to ciate the position of others, and to help protecting new groups of people as well the circumstances and events in his life others understand his point of view in as better protecting citizens already by choosing to make a difference in the a respectful, honest manner. He is covered under deficient laws. I believe lives of others is Idahoan Kelly highly skilled at helping those who that by passing this legislation and Buckland, president of the National may perceive themselves in opposition changing current law, we can change Council for Independent Living and an to one another reach a place where hearts and minds as well. extraordinary advocate for people with they can meet and find a common mid- disabilities. f dle ground. Despite his many accom- Kelly grew up on a farm outside of plishments, Kelly is exceedingly hum- ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS Rexburg, ID. When he was 15, he be- ble, preferring to give credit to others came a quadriplegic as a result of a for many of the successes in which he’s diving accident. Kelly has recalled CONGRATULATING JOSHUA KORS been instrumental. He has observed that, upon returning home after a year that we all have something we perceive ∑ Mr. BOND. Mr. President, I rise of hospitalization, he became deeply as a hindrance to our own success, but today to congratulate Joshua Kors on depressed. But with the encouragement it is our responsibility to acknowledge winning the George Polk Award for of his parents who, among other perceived limitations and move for- magazine reporting and his selection as things, rigged up farm equipment so ward rather than devote time and en- a finalist for Harvard’s Goldsmith that Kelly could continue doing what ergy in focusing on what we think our Prize for Investigative Reporting. he had done before the accident, Kelly particular limitations prevent us from I am grateful for the work Mr. Kors began to recover from his depression. doing. has done on behalf of our troops and for Recalling the people that helped him Kelly has devoted his time and en- the leadership he has demonstrated in and others during his hospitalization, ergy to ensuring that those who have his relentless pursuit of the facts. Kelly made a choice that would change experienced legal, occupational and America counts on its investigative his life and the lives of many others personal difficulties as a result of their reporters to expose corruption, mis- over the years: he chose to use his disabilities have a voice in changing management and abuse, particularly in many gifts and talents to help those in our laws to ensure true independence government. Mr. Kors’ work brought to need. for all. His own words echo his convic- light the military’s appalling misuse of Kelly obtained a bachelor’s degree in tions: ‘‘I want to insure that no one administrative discharges for many of social work from Boise State Univer- need be institutionalized because there our combat-wounded soldiers. sity. He graduated summa cum laude are inadequate community services. I Mr. Kors’ profile of the difficulties with a master’s degree in rehabilita- want freedom to be a reality for every- SPC Jon Town encountered after re- tion counseling from Drake University. one.’’ turning from Iraq showed all of us in He was exposed to the legislative proc- Kelly Buckland is a voice of compas- troubling detail the devastating im- ess early in his career and realized that sion, inspiration and reason and it is pact of the Pentagon’s policy on one he had an interest and a gift for public my distinct honor to recognize him soldier and his family—a story which is policy. In the 1980s, Kelly was instru- today.∑ repeated in the lives of too many oth- mental in the initial effort to install f ers similarly discharged. curb cuts in the city sidewalks in Bur- With the lives and livelihoods of ley, ID, to help with wheelchair acces- RECOGNIZING VICTORIA WILLIAMS these wounded warriors on the line, sibility. Kelly’s advocacy then turned ∑ Mr. KOHL. Mr. President, I would Mr. Kors’ reporting has clearly made a to the State, where he was able to help like to take this time to recognize and difference already. change Idaho State law to provide pro- congratulate Ms. Victoria Williams of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.022 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1816 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 Menasha, WI, for being selected as cost, used vegetable oil from the school Mr. President, I have worked closely Goodwill Industries International 2007 and from local restaurants to convert with the administration to try to as- Achiever of the Year. to biodiesel fuel. The project has pro- certain what exactly happened to Mr. Ms. Williams has earned this award duced approximately 200 gallons of bio- Levinson. Today, just one day after the for the bravery and spirit she displays diesel fuel thus far. By next year, the anniversary of his disappearance, I ask through good times and bad. Through- school expects to be able to provide my colleagues to remember this Amer- out her life, Ms. Williams has overcome biodiesel fuel for its entire 26-bus fleet. ican citizen, whose whereabouts are adversity and serious obstacles to be- This exciting project has the support still unknown, and to urge the U.S. come a proud mother and advocate for of many in the community, including Government to do everything in its others. Birch Run School Superintendent power to locate and bring him home.∑ Through family tragedies and per- Wayne Wright, Birch Run Principal f sonal struggles, Ms. Williams never Mike Baszler and members of the Birch gave up. Instead, she dedicated herself Run School Board. Mrs. Pollard and MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE to work on behalf of others in her com- her students have tirelessly worked on At 2:29 p.m., a message from the munity. As a job coach for people with the many aspects of this project. And, House of Representatives, delivered by disabilities, Ms. Williams is doing her most importantly, these students have Ms. Niland, one of its reading clerks, ‘‘dream job,’’ and helping those with been provided an excellent opportunity announced that the Speaker has signed whom she works achieve their own to pursue practical and timely solu- the following enrolled joint resolution: dreams. In her new role as assistant tions that will benefit the school, the S. J. Res. 25. Joint resolution providing for store team leader she will continue to environment, and their community. the appointment of John W. McCarter as a motivate others and do great things. Indeed, these young people have em- citizen regent of the Board of Regents of the As her employer’s name suggests, Ms. barked on an important endeavor. As a Smithsonian Institution. Williams exemplifies and delivers good Nation, we must increase the diversity f will. She tirelessly works to improve of our energy sources and enhance our the lives of those around her. She is Nation’s energy independence. Bio- MEASURES PLACED ON THE able to turn what life has presented to diesel provides a part of the solution to CALENDAR her, both good and bad, into valuable our energy needs. It has the potential The following bill was read the sec- lessons for others. She is an inspiration to improve our Nation’s energy inde- ond time, and placed on the calendar: to her sons, her colleagues, and to all pendence in the near term by replacing S. 2734. A bill to aid families and neighbor- of us. As the Goodwill Industries Inter- some of the oil we import from abroad hoods facing home foreclosure and address national Achiever of the Year, she em- with homegrown, sustainable biofuels. the subprime mortgage crisis. bodies the Goodwill promise of enrich- Utilizing this fuel source could reduce f ing individual lives and the greater our impact on the environment and community. slow changes to our climate that will MEASURES READ THE FIRST TIME On behalf of our State and Nation, I otherwise threaten our future. With The following bills were read the first join Goodwill Industries in recognizing this new technology, we could dramati- time: and commending Ms. Williams, an ex- cally reduce carbon dioxide emissions S. 2738. A bill to identify and remove crimi- traordinary woman, for sharing her and help create jobs as well as spur our nal aliens incarcerated in correctional facili- gifts with others.∑ economy. ties in the United States and for other pur- f I know my colleagues will share my poses. enthusiasm in recognizing everyone af- S. 2739. A bill to authorize certain pro- RECOGNIZING THE BIRCH RUN filiated with the biodiesel project at grams and activities in the Department of BIODIESEL PROJECT Birch Run High School. I look forward the Interior, the Forest Service, and the De- ∑ Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I recently to hearing about their many successes partment of Energy, to implement further the Act approving the Covenant to Establish visited Birch Run High School in in the future.∑ Michigan to learn about its biodiesel a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana f Islands in Political Union with the United project. This project is an innovative, LOCATING BOB LEVINSON States of America, to amend the Compact of forward-thinking endeavor, and I am Free Association Amendments Act of 2003, proud that young people in Michigan ∑ Mr. NELSON of Florida. Mr. Presi- and for other purposes. are making strides to understand and dent, 1 year ago yesterday, a man who f begin to solve some of our Nation’s had spent more than 28 years serving most pressing concerns. the United States of America, a dedi- EXECUTIVE AND OTHER The biodiesel project was initiated in cated husband and father and con- COMMUNICATIONS the second semester of the 2007–2008 stituent of mine, disappeared from The following communications were school year at Birch Run by Mrs. Jan Kish Island, in the Persian Gulf. I rise laid before the Senate, together with Pollard, a chemistry teacher at the today to remind this body of the plight accompanying papers, reports, and doc- school. Mrs. Pollard was instrumental of this missing person and the suffering uments, and were referred as indicated: in helping the school secure the fund- of his family. EC–5318. A communication from the Direc- ing necessary to establish this project On March 8, 2007, Bob Levinson, a re- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- by approaching officials associated tired veteran of both the FBI and DEA, ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, with the Watershed Initiative Net- arrived in Kish—an Iranian resort is- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled work—WIN—grant program. She wrote land that does not require a visa to ‘‘Flumioxazin; Pesticide Tolerance’’ (FRL and submitted a proposal for $10,000 to visit. From what we know, he checked No. 8352–5) received on March 3, 2008; to the WIN, which was ultimately approved. into his hotel, checked out on March Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and The biodiesel project is a part of a 9th, got into a taxi, and then vanished. Forestry. comprehensive effort that includes a EC–5319. A communication from the Direc- I have worked closely with the State tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- greenhouse and a bee keeping compo- Department and the Swiss Government ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, nent. The students currently working to lodge a number of requests for infor- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled on the biodiesel project include Ross mation with the Iranian Government. ‘‘Bifenazate; Pesticide Tolerance’’ (FRL No. Fredenburg, the team leader; Derek Unfortunately, Iran claims it has no 8351–6) received on March 3, 2008; to the Com- Bentley; Ryan Johnson; and Dillon information on the welfare or where- mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- Fredenburg, the apprentice leader for abouts of Mr. Levinson. estry. the 2008–2009 school year. These stu- Last December, Bob’s wife Christine EC–5320. A communication from the Con- dents have completed all the construc- traveled to Iran and visited Kish on a gressional Review Coordinator, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Department tion work, installed the necessary factfinding mission. Although she did of Agriculture, transmitting, pursuant to equipment, and run the project, includ- not find any proof of his whereabouts, law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Importa- ing all manufacturing and testing of she came away with the strong belief tion of Fruits and Vegetables’’ (Docket No. the biodiesel fuel. They obtain, at no that Bob is alive. APHIS–2007–0116) received on March 4, 2008;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G10MR6.004 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1817 to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, tion’’ (FRL No. 8536–3) received on March 4, EC–5342. A communication from the Assist- and Forestry. 2008; to the Committee on Environment and ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, EC–5321. A communication from the Under Public Works. Department of State, transmitting, pursuant Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), trans- EC–5332. A communication from the Direc- to law, the certification of a proposed mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a vio- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- amendment to a manufacturing license lation of the Antideficiency Act by the per- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, agreement for the manufacture of significant sonnel from the Navy Region Southwest; to pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled military equipment abroad and the export of the Committee on Appropriations. ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality defense articles to Russia for the RD–180 Liq- EC–5322. A communication from the Under Implementation Plans; Wisconsin; Approval uid Propellant Rocket Engine Program; to Secretary of Defense (Comptroller), trans- of Construction Permit Waiver’’ (FRL No. the Committee on Foreign Relations. mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a vio- 8533–1) received on March 4, 2008; to the Com- EC–5343. A communication from the Sec- lation of the Antideficiency Act by the Fleet mittee on Environment and Public Works. retary of Health and Human Services, trans- Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography EC–5333. A communication from the Direc- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of the Center; to the Committee on Appropriations. tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- addition of workers from the Lawrence EC–5323. A communication from the Sec- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, Livermore National Laboratory to the Spe- retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled cial Exposure Cohort; to the Committee on ant to law, a six-month periodic report on ‘‘Determination of Nonattainment and Re- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. the national emergency that was declared in classification of the Atlanta, Georgia 8-Hour EC–5344. A communication from the Sec- Executive Order 12956 relative to Iran; to the Ozone Nonattainment Area’’ (FRL No. 8539– retary of Health and Human Services, trans- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban 2) received on March 4, 2008; to the Com- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of the Affairs. mittee on Environment and Public Works. addition of workers from the Combustion EC–5324. A communication from the Sec- EC–5334. A communication from the Direc- Engineering facility to the Special Exposure retary of the Federal Trade Commission, tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Cohort; to the Committee on Health, Edu- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, cation, Labor, and Pensions. a rule entitled ‘‘Notice Announcing 2008 Ad- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled EC–5345. A communication from the Sec- justed Thresholds for Clayton Act 7A’’ ‘‘In-Use Testing for Heavy-Duty Diesel En- retary of Health and Human Services, trans- (RIN3084–AA91) received on March 3, 2008; to gines and Vehicles; Emission Measurement mitting, pursuant to law, the report of the the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Accuracy Margins for Portable Emission addition of workers from the Mound Plant Transportation. Measurement Systems and Program Revi- near Dayton, Ohio, to the Special Exposure EC–5325. A communication from the Attor- sions’’ ((RIN2060–AO69)(FRL No. 8539–3)) re- Cohort; to the Committee on Health, Edu- ney Advisor, Department of Transportation, ceived on March 4, 2008; to the Committee on cation, Labor, and Pensions. EC–5346. A communication from the Chair- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of Environment and Public Works. man, Council of the District of Columbia, a vacancy in the position of Under Secretary EC–5335. A communication from the Direc- transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on of Transportation for Policy, received on tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- D.C. Act 17–295, ‘‘Burned Fire Fighter Relief March 3, 2008; to the Committee on Com- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, Temporary Amendment Act of 2008’’ received merce, Science, and Transportation. pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled on March 4, 2008; to the Committee on Home- EC–5326. A communication from the Chief ‘‘National Emission Standards for Hazardous Financial Officer, Department of Energy, land Security and Governmental Affairs. Air Pollutants for Source Categories: Gaso- EC–5347. A communication from the Chair- transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- line Distribution Bulk Terminals, Bulk man, Council of the District of Columbia, ative to the status of the Department’s Plants, and Pipeline Facilities; and Gasoline transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on uncosted obligations; to the Committee on Dispensing Facilities; Correction’’ (FRL No. D.C. Act 17–293, ‘‘Park East Assistance Act of Energy and Natural Resources. 8540–2) received on March 4, 2008; to the Com- 2008’’ received on March 4, 2008; to the Com- EC–5327. A communication from the Acting mittee on Environment and Public Works. mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and EC–5336. A communication from the Fed- mental Affairs. Parks, Department of the Interior, transmit- eral Register Certifying Officer, Financial EC–5348. A communication from the Chair- ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- Management Service, Department of the man, Council of the District of Columbia, titled ‘‘Endangered and Threatened Wildlife Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat report of a rule entitled ‘‘Standards for the D.C. Act 17–294, ‘‘Choice in Drug Treatment for the Guajon’’ (RIN1018–AU46) received on Administrative Collection of Claims’’ Temporary Amendment Act of 2008’’ received March 3, 2008; to the Committee on Environ- (RIN1510–AA91) received on March 4, 2008; to on March 4, 2008; to the Committee on Home- ment and Public Works. the Committee on Finance. land Security and Governmental Affairs. EC–5328. A communication from the Direc- EC–5337. A communication from the Pro- EC–5349. A communication from the Chair- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- gram Manager, Centers for Medicare and man, Council of the District of Columbia, ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, Medicaid Services, Department of Health transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled and Human Services, transmitting, pursuant D.C. Act 17–310, ‘‘New Convention Center ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Revisit Hotel Omnibus Financing and Development Implementation Plans; Commonwealth of User Fee Program for Medicare Survey and Amendment Act of 2008’’ received on March Virginia; Control of Particulate Matter from Certification Activities’’ (RIN0938–AP22) re- 4, 2008; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- Pulp and Paper Mills; Correction’’ (FRL No. ceived on March 3, 2008; to the Committee on rity and Governmental Affairs. 8537–6) received on March 3, 2008; to the Com- Finance. EC–5350. A communication from the Chair- mittee on Environment and Public Works. EC–5338. A communication from the Trade man, Council of the District of Columbia, EC–5329. A communication from the Direc- Representative, Executive Office of the transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- President, transmitting, pursuant to law, D.C. Act 17–311, ‘‘Uniform Anatomical Gift ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, the 2008 Trade Policy Agenda and 2007 An- Revision Act of 2008’’ received on March 4, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled nual Report on the Trade Agreements Pro- 2008; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- ‘‘Partial Withdrawal of Direct Final Rule gram; to the Committee on Finance. rity and Governmental Affairs. Revising the California State Implementa- EC–5339. A communication from the Assist- EC–5351. A communication from the Presi- tion Plan, Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollu- ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, dent, Overseas Private Investment Corpora- tion Control District and San Joaquin Valley Department of State, transmitting, pursuant tion, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report Air Pollution Control District’’ (FRL No. to law, a report relative to the President’s relative to the Corporation’s employment 8537–9) received on March 3, 2008; to the Com- waiver of restriction on the provisions of category rating system activities for fiscal mittee on Environment and Public Works. funds to the Palestinian Authority; to the year 2007; to the Committee on Homeland Se- EC–5330. A communication from the Direc- Committee on Foreign Relations. curity and Governmental Affairs. tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- EC–5340. A communication from the Assist- EC–5352. A communication from the Comp- ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, troller General of the United States, trans- pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Department of State, transmitting, pursuant mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to ‘‘Final Authorization of State Hazardous to law, a report relative to steps taken to en- whether the financial statements of the De- Waste Management Program Revisions’’ courage Arab League states to normalize posit Insurance Fund and FSLIC Resolution (FRL No. 8538–1) received on March 3, 2008; to their relations with Israel; to the Committee Fund are presented fairly; to the Committee the Committee on Environment and Public on Foreign Relations. on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Works. EC–5341. A communication from the Assist- fairs. EC–5331. A communication from the Direc- ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, EC–5353. A communication from the Direc- tor, Regulatory Management Division, Envi- Department of State, transmitting, pursuant tor, Administrative Office of the United ronmental Protection Agency, transmitting, to law, the certification of a proposed agree- States Courts, transmitting, pursuant to pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ment for the export of defense articles to law, an update to the report entitled ‘‘Long ‘‘Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Japan for the production of the Evolved Range Plan for Information Technology in Implementation Plans; Maryland; Update to SeaSparrow Missile; to the Committee on the Federal Judiciary’’; to the Committee on Materials Incorporated by Reference; Correc- Foreign Relations. the Judiciary.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.012 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1818 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS cancer in the same manner as is pro- MARCH 7, 2008 S. 22 vided for breast and cervical cancer. The following reports of committees At the request of Mr. WEBB, the name S. 1464 were submitted: of the Senator from West Virginia (Mr. At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the By Mrs. BOXER, from the Committee on BYRD) was added as a cosponsor of S. name of the Senator from Michigan Environment and Public Works, with an 22, a bill to amend title 38, United (Mr. LEVIN) was withdrawn as a cospon- amendment in the nature of a substitute: States Code, to establish a program of sor of S. 1464, a bill to establish a Glob- H.R. 1195. A bill to amend the Safe, Ac- educational assistance for members of al Service Fellowship Program, and for countable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation other purposes. Equity Act: A Legacy for Users to make the Armed Forces who serve in the S. 1675 technical corrections, and for other pur- Armed Forces after September 11, 2001, poses. and for other purposes. At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the name of the Senator from Mississippi By Mr. CONRAD, from the Committee on S. 82 the Budget, without amendment: (Mr. COCHRAN) was added as a cospon- At the request of Mr. AKAKA, the S. Con. Res. 70. An original concurrent res- name of the Senator from Vermont sor of S. 1675, a bill to implement the olution setting forth the congressional budg- recommendations of the Federal Com- et for the United States Government for fis- (Mr. SANDERS) was added as a cospon- sor of S. 82, a bill to reaffirm the au- munications Commission report to the cal year 2009 and including the appropriate Congress regarding low-power FM serv- budgetary levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 thority of the Comptroller General to through 2013. audit and evaluate the programs, ac- ice. S. 1681 f tivities, and financial transactions of At the request of Mr. DODD, the name REPORTS OF COMMITTEES the intelligence community, and for other purposes. of the Senator from Rhode Island (Mr. The following reports of committees WHITEHOUSE) was added as a cosponsor S. 661 were submitted: of S. 1681, a bill to provide for a paid At the request of Ms. COLLINS, her family and medical leave insurance By Mr. LEAHY, from the Committee on name was added as a cosponsor of S. the Judiciary, with an amendment in the na- program, and for other purposes. 661, a bill to establish kinship navi- ture of a substitute: S. 1760 gator programs, to establish guardian- S. 1638. A bill to adjust the salaries of Fed- At the request of Mr. BROWN, the ship assistance payments for children, eral justices and judges, and for other pur- name of the Senator from New York poses. and for other purposes. (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- f S. 819 sor of S. 1760, a bill to amend the Pub- INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND At the request of Mr. DORGAN, the lic Health Service Act with respect to JOINT RESOLUTIONS name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. the Healthy Start Initiative. BROWN) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 1926 The following bills and joint resolu- 819, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, his tions were introduced, read the first enue Code of 1986 to expand tax-free and second times by unanimous con- name was added as a cosponsor of S. distributions from individual retire- 1926, a bill to establish the National In- sent, and referred as indicated: ment accounts for charitable purposes. By Mr. AKAKA: frastructure Bank to provide funding S. 2737. A bill to amend title 38, United S. 911 for qualified infrastructure projects, States Code, to grant jurisdiction to the At the request of Mr. REED, the name and for other purposes. United States Court of Appeals for Veterans of the Senator from Colorado (Mr. S. 1951 Claims to review compliance of the schedule SALAZAR) was added as a cosponsor of of ratings for disabilities under section 1151 At the request of Mr. BAUCUS, the S. 911, a bill to amend the Public name of the Senator from New York of that title with statutory requirements ap- Health Service Act to advance medical plicable to entitlement to disability com- (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- pensation under chapter 11 of that title, and research and treatments into pediatric sor of S. 1951, a bill to amend title XIX for other purposes; to the Committee on Vet- cancers, ensure patients and families of the Social Security Act to ensure erans’ Affairs. have access to the current treatments that individuals eligible for medical as- By Mr. COBURN: and information regarding pediatric sistance under the Medicaid program S. 2738. A bill to identify and remove crimi- cancers, establish a population-based continue to have access to prescription nal aliens incarcerated in correctional facili- national childhood cancer database, drugs, and for other purposes. ties in the United States and for other pur- and promote public awareness of pedi- poses; read the first time. S. 2064 By Mr. BINGAMAN: atric cancers. At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the S. 2739. A bill to authorize certain pro- S. 1010 name of the Senator from New York grams and activities in the Department of At the request of Mr. SMITH, the (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- the Interior, the Forest Service, and the De- name of the Senator from Colorado sor of S. 2064, a bill to fund comprehen- partment of Energy, to implement further (Mr. SALAZAR) was added as a cospon- sive programs to ensure an adequate the Act approving the Covenant to Establish sor of S. 1010, a bill to amend the Inter- a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana supply of nurses. Islands in Political Union with the United nal Revenue Code of 1986 to encourage S. 2181 States of America, to amend the Compact of guaranteed lifetime income payments At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the Free Association Amendments Act of 2003, from annuities and similar payments of name of the Senator from New York and for other purposes; read the first time. life insurance proceeds at dates later (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- f than death by excluding from income a sor of S. 2181, a bill to amend title portion of such payments. SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND XVIII of the Social Security Act to SENATE RESOLUTIONS S. 1175 protect Medicare beneficiaries’ access At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the to home health services under the The following concurrent resolutions name of the Senator from New York Medicare program. and Senate resolutions were read, and (Mr. SCHUMER) was added as a cospon- S. 2209 referred (or acted upon), as indicated: sor of S. 1175, a bill to end the use of At the request of Mr. HATCH, the By Mr. CASEY (for himself and Ms. child soldiers in hostilities around the SNOWE): name of the Senator from New York S. Res. 477. A resolution supporting the world, and for other purposes. (Mr. SCHUMER) was added as a cospon- goals and ideals of designating March 2008 as S. 1275 sor of S. 2209, a bill to amend the Inter- National Multiple Sclerosis Education and At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the nal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide in- Awareness Month; to the Committee on name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. centives to improve America’s research Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. AKAKA) was added as a cosponsor of S. competitiveness, and for other pur- By Mr. SMITH (for himself and Mr. 1275, a bill to amend the Public Health poses. KERRY): S. Res. 478. A resolution supporting the Service Act and title XIX of the Social S. 2291 goals and ideals of ‘‘World Water Day’’; to Security Act to provide for a screening At the request of Mr. AKAKA, the the Committee on Foreign Relations. and treatment program for prostate name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.018 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1819 VOINOVICH) was added as a cosponsor of ENSIGN) and the Senator from Arizona driver’s licenses to individuals without S. 2291, a bill to enhance citizen access (Mr. KYL) were added as cosponsors of verifying the legal status of such indi- to Government information and serv- S. 2632, a bill to ensure that the Sex Of- viduals. ices by establishing plain language as fender Registration and Notification S. 2720 the standard style of Government doc- Act is applied retroactively. At the request of Mr. SPECTER, the uments issued to the public, and for S. 2666 name of the Senator from Oklahoma other purposes. At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the (Mr. COBURN) was added as a cosponsor S. 2314 name of the Senator from California of S. 2720, a bill to withhold Federal fi- At the request of Mr. SALAZAR, the (Mrs. BOXER) was added as a cosponsor nancial assistance from each country name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. of S. 2666, a bill to amend the Internal that denies or unreasonably delays the WYDEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. Revenue Code of 1986 to encourage in- acceptance of nationals of such coun- 2314, a bill to amend the Internal Rev- vestment in affordable housing, and for try who have been ordered removed enue Code of 1986 to make geothermal other purposes. from the United States and to prohibit heat pump systems eligible for the en- S. 2684 the issuance of visas to nationals of ergy credit and the residential energy At the request of Mr. DODD, the name such country. efficient property credit, and for other of the Senator from California (Mrs. S. RES. 390 purposes. BOXER) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. KOHL, the name S. 2369 2684, a bill to reform the housing choice of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. BROWN) At the request of Mr. BAUCUS, the voucher program under section 8 of the was added as a cosponsor of S. Res. 390, name of the Senator from North Caro- United States Housing Act of 1937. a resolution designating March 11, 2008, lina (Mrs. DOLE) was added as a cospon- S. 2688 as National Funeral Director and Mor- sor of S. 2369, a bill to amend title 35, At the request of Mr. INOUYE, the tician Recognition Day. United States Code, to provide that names of the Senator from Florida (Mr. f certain tax planning inventions are not NELSON) and the Senator from Alaska STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED patentable, and for other purposes. (Ms. MURKOWSKI) were added as cospon- BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS S. 2420 sors of S. 2688, a bill to improve the At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the protections afforded under Federal law By Mr. AKAKA: name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. to consumers from contaminated sea- S. 2737. A bill to amend title 38, COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. food by directing the Secretary of United States Code, to grant jurisdic- 2420, a bill to encourage the donation of Commerce to establish a program, in tion to the United States Court of Ap- excess food to nonprofit organizations coordination with other appropriate peals for Veterans Claims to review that provide assistance to food-inse- Federal agencies, to strengthen activi- compliance of the schedule of ratings cure people in the United States in ties for ensuring that seafood sold or for disabilities under section 1151 of contracts entered into by executive offered for sale to the public in or af- that title with statutory requirements agencies for the provision, service, or fecting interstate commerce is fit for applicable to entitlement to disability sale of food. human consumption. compensation under chapter 11 of that S. 2433 S. 2705 title, and for other purposes; to the At the request of Mr. HAGEL, the At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. name of the Senator from New York Mr. AKAKA. Mr. President, today I SMITH) was added as a cosponsor of S. (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- introduce the proposed Veterans’ Rat- 2433, a bill to require the President to sor of S. 2705, a bill to authorize pro- ing Schedule Review Act. This legisla- develop and implement a comprehen- grams to increase the number of nurses tion would remove a barrier to legal re- sive strategy to further the United within the Armed Forces through as- dress faced by veterans who believe States foreign policy objective of pro- sistance for service as nurse faculty or that a provision of the VA Schedule for moting the reduction of global poverty, education as nurses, and for other pur- Rating Disabilities—the Rating Sched- the elimination of extreme global pov- poses. ule—does not comply with a law passed by Congress. The amount of compensa- erty, and the achievement of the Mil- S. 2712 lennium Development Goal of reducing tion veterans with service-connected At the request of Mr. DEMINT, the conditions receive is based on a dis- by one-half the proportion of people name of the Senator from Oklahoma worldwide, between 1990 and 2015, who ability rating, which VA assigns to (Mr. COBURN) was added as a cosponsor these conditions. VA uses its rating live on less than $1 per day. of S. 2712, a bill to require the Sec- S. 2452 schedule to determine which rating to retary of Homeland Security to com- assign to a veteran’s particular condi- At the request of Mr. DODD, the name plete at least 700 miles of reinforced of the Senator from New Jersey (Mr. tion. Under current law, the Court of fencing along the Southwest border by Appeals for Veterans Claims has juris- LAUTENBERG) was added as a cosponsor December 31, 2010, and for other pur- of S. 2452, a bill to amend the Truth in diction to consider only Constitutional poses. challenges to the rating schedule. Lending Act to provide protection to S. 2716 consumers with respect to certain When legislation was passed providing At the request of Mr. DOMENICI, the high-cost loans, and for other purposes. for judicial review, review of the rating names of the Senator from Oklahoma schedule was specifically prohibited as S. 2533 (Mr. COBURN) and the Senator from part of a final compromise. At the request of Mr. KENNEDY, the Pennsylvania (Mr. SPECTER) were This legislation would expand the ju- name of the Senator from Virginia (Mr. added as cosponsors of S. 2716, a bill to risdiction of the court to include cases WEBB) was added as a cosponsor of S. authorize the National Guard to pro- where a provision of the rating sched- 2533, a bill to enact a safe, fair, and re- vide support for the border control ac- ule or the absence of a rating for a con- sponsible state secrets privilege Act. tivities of the United States Customs dition mandated by statute is chal- S. 2609 and Border Protection of the Depart- lenged. Under the proposed change, as- At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the ment of Homeland Security, and for pects of the VA rating schedule that names of the Senator from Michigan other purposes. appear to violate requirements of law (Mr. LEVIN) and the Senator from Con- S. 2718 set forth in chapter 11 of title 38, necticut (Mr. LIEBERMAN) were added At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the United States Code, would be subject as cosponsors of S. 2609, a bill to estab- name of the Senator from Pennsyl- to the court’s jurisdiction. lish a Global Service Fellowship Pro- vania (Mr. SPECTER) was added as a co- I expect VA to comply with all laws gram, and for other purposes. sponsor of S. 2718, a bill to withhold 10 passed by Congress in developing and S. 2632 percent of the Federal funding appor- revising the rating schedule. However, At the request of Mr. BOND, the tioned for highway construction and justice to our Nation’s veterans re- names of the Senator from Nevada (Mr. maintenance from States that issue quires a forum in which the rating

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:59 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.016 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1820 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 schedule can be challenged when some- for disabilities complies with applicable re- (5) recognizes all Americans living with one believes that a statute passed by quirements of chapter 11 of this title.’’. multiple sclerosis, expresses gratitude to Congress to provide compensation for f their family members and friends who are a the service-disabled is being violated. source of love and encouragement to them, SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS Veterans seeking to challenge the de- and salutes the health care professionals and medical researchers who provide assistance nial of benefits based on the rating to those so afflicted and continue to work to schedule’s lack of consistency with SENATE RESOLUTION 477—SUP- find cures and improve treatments. other laws are subject to rejection by PORTING THE GOALS AND Mr. President, I offer today, along the court due to the prohibition in cur- IDEALS OF DESIGNATING MARCH with my colleague Senator SNOWE, this rent law. The United States Court of 2008 AS NATIONAL MULTIPLE resolution supporting the goals and Appeals for the Federal Circuit held, in SCLEROSIS EDUCATION AND ideals National Multiple Sclerosis Edu- Wanner v. Principi, 370 F.3d 1124, 2004, AWARENESS MONTH cation and Awareness Month. I am that the language in current law ‘‘re- Mr. CASEY (for himself and Ms. pleased to introduce this resolution moves from the Veterans Court’s juris- which recognizes and reaffirms our diction all review involving the con- SNOWE) submitted the following resolu- tion; which was referred to the Com- commitment to combating multiple tent of the rating schedules and the sclerosis by promoting awareness Secretary’s actions in adopting or re- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: about its causes and risks and by pro- vising them.’’ moting new education programs, sup- One example of the kind of case that ES H. R . 477 porting research and expanding access would be affected by the change to the Whereas multiple sclerosis can impact men to medical treatment. It is also my law is VA’s lack of action in response and women of all ages; hope that this resolution that Senator to legislation enacted in 2002 which al- Whereas multiple sclerosis affects men and SNOWE and I offer today will help us to lows veterans who qualify for com- women of all races and ethnicities; more consciously recognize all Ameri- pensation due to the loss of hearing in Whereas approximately 400,000 Americans cans living with multiple sclerosis. We both ears to receive special ‘‘paired live with multiple sclerosis; are grateful to their family members organ’’ benefits. In the years since that Whereas approximately 2,500,000 people worldwide have been diagnosed with mul- and friends who are a source of love law was passed, many veterans serving tiple sclerosis; and encouragement to them and we sa- in Iraq have suffered hearing loss after Whereas approximately 200 people a week lute the health care professionals and being exposed to Improvised Explosive are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis; medical researchers who provide assist- Device blasts. However, VA has yet to Whereas over 400 cases of childhood mul- ance to those with MS and who con- issue regulations to amend the rating tiple sclerosis have been identified in med- tinue to work to find cures and im- schedule, as required by the law. Under ical journals since 1980 and it is estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 children and prove treatments. the current state of the law, no one We know a lot about MS but unfortu- could bring a legal challenge to that adolescents are affected; Whereas the exact cause of multiple scle- nately there is still a great deal we do failure to act. rosis is still unknown; not know. We know it can strike males I note that the exception to the ban Whereas the symptoms of multiple scle- and females of all ages, races and on review of the rating schedule pro- rosis are unpredictable and vary from person ethnicities. Today, approximately posed in this bill is a limited one. The to person; 400,000 Americans live with this disease bill would not allow for a wholesale as- Whereas there is no laboratory test avail- and about 2.5 million people have been sault on the rating schedule. It would able for multiple sclerosis; Whereas multiple sclerosis is not genetic, diagnosed worldwide. Every week, an- merely provide judicial review of cases other 200 people are diagnosed and it is where compliance with a law passed by contagious, or directly inherited, but studies show there are genetic factors that indicate estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 Congress is challenged. children and adolescents have MS. I urge all of my colleagues to support certain individuals are susceptible to the dis- ease; The exact cause of multiple sclerosis this measure, so that veterans seeking Whereas multiple sclerosis symptoms is still unknown and its symptoms are justice may have an appropriate forum occur when an immune system attack affects unpredictable, varying from person to to challenge the VA’s compliance with the myelin, destroying it and replacing it person. We have no laboratory test governing statutes. with scar tissue and severing nerve fibers that will tell us if someone has mul- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- interfering with the transmission of nerve tiple sclerosis. This disease is not ge- sent that the text of the bill be printed signals; netic, contagious, or directly inherited, in the RECORD. Whereas in rare cases multiple sclerosis is There being no objection, the text of so progressive it is fatal; but studies show there are genetic fac- the bill was ordered to be printed in Whereas there is no known cure for mul- tors that indicate certain individuals tiple sclerosis; and are susceptible to the disease. the RECORD, as follows: Whereas March 2008 is recognized as Na- Multiple sclerosis symptoms occur S. 2737 tional Multiple Sclerosis Education and when an immune system attack affects Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Awareness Month: Now, therefore, be it the myelin, destroying it and replacing resentatives of the United States of America in Resolved, That the Senate— it with scar tissue and severing nerve Congress assembled, (1) supports the goals and ideals of Na- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. tional Multiple Sclerosis Education and fibers, thus interfering with the trans- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Veterans’ Awareness Month; mission of nerve signals. There is as Rating Schedule Review Act’’. (2) invites the chief executive officers of yet no known cure for multiple scle- SEC. 2. REVIEW BY UNITED STATES COURT OF the States, territories, and possessions of the rosis. MS can be an especially dev- APPEALS FOR VETERANS CLAIMS OF United States to issue proclamations desig- astating disease as it is often diagnosed COMPLIANCE OF SCHEDULE OF RAT- nating March 2008 as National Multiple Scle- in young adults who are just setting INGS FOR DISABILITIES WITH STAT- rosis Education and Awareness Month and UTORY REQUIREMENTS APPLICA- out on their own, beginning their per- recognizing the goals and ideals of National BLE TO ENTITLEMENT TO DIS- sonal and professional lives. While MS ABILITY COMPENSATION. Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month; is not a fatal disease, it is a noncur- Section 7252(b) of title 38, United States able, sometimes progressive disease Code, is amended— (3) commends the efforts of the States, ter- (1) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ after ‘‘(b)’’; ritories, and possessions of the United that can affect every aspect of life. (2) by striking the third sentence; and States, localities, non-profit organizations, Because MS is an unpredictable dis- (3) by adding at the end the following new businesses, and other entities and the people ease, it presents those suffering from it paragraph: of the United States who support the goals with many uncertainties about the fu- ‘‘(2)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph and ideals of National Multiple Sclerosis ture. For instance, one young con- (B), the Court may not review the schedule Education and Awareness Month; stituent of mine suffering from MS of ratings for disabilities adopted under sec- (4) recognizes and reaffirms our Nation’s confided that she felt limited in choos- commitment to combating multiple sclerosis tion 1155 of this title or any action of the ing a career, feeling that she needed to Secretary in adopting or revising that sched- by promoting awareness about its causes and ule. risks and by promoting new education pro- find an occupation that could accom- ‘‘(B) The Court may review whether, and grams, supporting research, and expanding modate any potential disabilities. In the extent to which, the schedule of ratings access to medical treatment; and considering employment offers, she not

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.021 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S1821 only had to consider the merits of the Whereas 1,100,000,000 (1 in 6) people lack ac- 2015 target for access to basic sanita- job itself, but also had to factor in find- cess to an improved water supply; tion by over 600 million. ing employment with someone who Whereas 2,600,000,000 people in the world Each day millions of women and girls provided adequate insurance coverage lack access to improved sanitation; spend hours traveling miles to trans- and leave policies, and was also willing Whereas the global celebration of World Water Day is an initiative that grew out of port water to their homes. In many to accommodate situations like the the 1992 United Nations Conference on Envi- cases, the source is polluted. At any need for flexible work schedules and ronment and Development in Rio de Janeiro; given time, half of the world’s hospital adaptive equipment. Whereas the participants in the 2002 World beds are occupied by patients suffering MS can also complicate decisions Summit on Sustainable Development in Jo- from waterborne diseases. These dis- about personal relationships, marriage, hannesburg, including the United States, eases are the leading cause of death for and child bearing. Since MS affects agreed to the Plan of Implementation which children under 5. twice as many women as men, young included an agreement to work to reduce by The Senator Paul Simon Water for women with MS often struggle with 1⁄2 from the baseline year 1990 ‘‘the propor- tion of people who are unable to reach or to the Poor Act of 2005 set a goal of pro- the decision of whether or not to have viding equal and affordable access to children who could potentially inherit afford safe drinking water’’, ‘‘and the propor- tion of people without access to basic sanita- clean and safe water and sanitation in the disease. In making such decisions, tion’’ by 2015; and developing countries. This access has they also have to consider options for Whereas Congress passed and the President long been recognized by the U.S. as a caring for those children in the event signed into law the Senator Paul Simon contributing factor to our foreign pol- that MS leaves them impaired or dis- Water for the Poor Act of 2005 (Public Law icy interests. More importantly, access abled. 109-121), which was intended to ‘‘elevate the to clean and safe water is basic human Because many of the symptoms of role of water and sanitation policy in the de- MS—like fatigue, pain, vision prob- velopment of U.S. foreign policy and improve right. lems, and numbness of extremities—are the effectiveness of U.S. official programs’’: We urge our colleagues to support ‘‘invisible’’ to others, people often Now, therefore, be it this important piece of legislation. don’t realize the extent to which the Resolved, That the Senate— f (1) supports the goals of ideals of ‘‘World disease affects those who suffer from it. AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND For those suffering from MS, some of Water Day’’; (2) urges an increased effort and the invest- PROPOSED the most important steps they can ment of greater resources by the Department SA 4147. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an take are to seek prompt treatment of State, the United States Agency for Inter- amendment intended to be proposed by him with a physician qualified to address national Development, and all relevant Fed- to the concurrent resolution S. Con. Res. 70, MS, consider beginning therapy with eral departments and agencies toward pro- setting forth the congressional budget for viding sustainable and equitable access to one of the FDA approved disease modi- the United States Government for fiscal year safe drinking water and sanitation for the fying drugs, and develop a supportive 2009 and including the appropriate budgetary poor and the very poor; and network of family and friends. levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 through (3) encourages the people of the United The most important thing that we in 2013; which was ordered to lie on the table. States to observe the week with appropriate Congress can do for those who have MS SA 4148. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an activities that promote awareness of the im- is recognize the scope of this illness, amendment intended to be proposed by him portance of access to clean water. which we are doing through this reso- to the concurrent resolution S. Con. Res. 70, lution, and resolve to find ways to im- Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. prove treatments for those suffering today to introduce a resolution sup- SA 4149. Mr. REID (for Mr. BINGAMAN) pro- from this devastating disease, and ulti- porting the ideals and goals of World posed an amendment to the resolution S. mately, resolve to help find a cure. Water Day. I am pleased to have my Res. 178, expressing the sympathy of the Sen- ate to the families of women and girls mur- With this resolution, I also invite the colleague Senator JOHN KERRY joining me in this cause by serving as the co- dered in Guatemala, and encouraging the chief executive officers of the States, United States to work with Guatemala to territories and possessions of the U.S. sponsor of this resolution. bring an end to these crimes. to issue proclamations designating Na- March 22 was established as World SA 4150. Mr. REID (for Mr. BINGAMAN) pro- tional Multiple Sclerosis Education Water Day by the United Nations Gen- posed an amendment to the resolution S. and Awareness Month. eral Assembly to promote awareness of Res. 178, supra. the importance of access to clean water SA 4151. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an SENATE RESOLUTION 478—SUP- and improved sanitation. Over 1 billion amendment intended to be proposed by him PORTING THE GOALS AND people lack access to an improved to the concurrent resolution S. Con. Res. 70, water supply and 2.6 billion people lack setting forth the congressional budget for IDEALS OF ‘‘WORLD WATER the United States Government for fiscal year DAY’’ access to improved sanitation. 2009 and including the appropriate budgetary Mr. SMITH (for himself and Mr. Activities are planned internation- levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 through KERRY) submitted the following resolu- ally to further the goals and ideals of 2013; which was ordered to lie on the table. tion; which was referred to the Com- World Water Day. In many cities SA 4152. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an mittee on Foreign Relations: across the United States, UNICEF is amendment intended to be proposed by him to the concurrent resolution S. Con. Res. 70, S. RES. 478 sponsoring the Tap Project. Res- taurants will offer patrons the oppor- supra; which was ordered to lie on the table. Whereas the United Nations General As- f sembly, via resolution, has designated March tunity to add at least $1 to their 22 of each year as World Water Day; checks during the week of March 16. TEXT OF AMENDMENTS Whereas a person needs 4 to 5 liters of Each dollar donated will result in a water per day to survive; child receiving clean water for 40 days. SA 4147. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an Whereas a person can live weeks without Thee are currently 16 featured cities, amendment intended to be proposed by food, but only days without water; including Portland, OR, and Boston him to the concurrent resolution S. Whereas every 15 seconds a child dies from MA. Con. Res. 70, setting forth the congres- a water-borne disease; In 2000, the United Nations member sional budget for the United States Whereas, for children under age 5, water- Government for fiscal year 2009 and in- borne diseases are the leading cause of death; States adopted eight millennium devel- opment goals as a basis for working co- cluding the appropriate budgetary lev- Whereas millions of women and children els for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 spend several hours a day collecting water operatively. To ensure environmental from distant, often polluted sources; stability, one of the goals established through 2013; which was ordered to lie Whereas every dollar spent on water and is to reduce by half the proportion of on the table; as follows: sanitation saves on average $9 in costs avert- people without sustainable access to On page 18, line 16, increase the amount by ed and productivity gained; safe drinking water and basic sanita- $2,000,000. 1 Whereas, at any given time, ⁄2 of the tion by 2015. While some progress has On page 18, line 17, increase the amount by world’s hospital beds are occupied by pa- $1,000,000. tients suffering from a water-borne disease; been made, much more remains to be On page 18, line 21, increase the amount by Whereas 88 percent of all diseases are done. The United Nation’s 2007 Millen- $1,000,000. caused by unsafe drinking water, inadequate nium Development Goals Report re- On page 27, line 16, decrease the amount by sanitation, and poor hygiene; veals that we are on pace to miss the $2,000,000.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:43 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10MR6.027 S10MRPT1 ccoleman on PROD1PC77 with SENATE S1822 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE March 10, 2008 On page 27, line 17, decrease the amount by Con. Res. 70, setting forth the congres- and the reign of King Rama III, and the com- $1,000,000. sional budget for the United States mencement of the relationship between the 2 On page 27, line 21, decrease the amount by Government for fiscal year 2009 and in- countries; $1,000,000. Whereas Thailand was the first treaty ally cluding the appropriate budgetary lev- of the United States in the Asia-Pacific re- SA 4148. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an els for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 gion and remains a steadfast friend with amendment intended to be proposed by through 2013; which was ordered to lie shared values of freedom, democracy, and him to the concurrent resolution S. on the table; as follows: liberty; Con. Res. 70, setting forth the congres- On page 55, line 18, after the word ‘‘pro- Whereas, in December 2003, the United sional budget for the United States gram’’ insert ‘‘or increasing Federal student States designated Thailand as a major ally loan limits’’. outside the North Atlantic Treaty Organiza- Government for fiscal year 2009 and in- tion, which improved the security of both cluding the appropriate budgetary lev- SA 4152. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an countries, particularly by facilitating joint els for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 amendment intended to be proposed by counterterrorism efforts; through 2013; which was ordered to lie Whereas, for more than a quarter century, him to the concurrent resolution S. on the table; as follows: Thailand has been the host country of Cobra Con. Res. 70, setting forth the congres- Gold, the United States Pacific Command’s On page 19, line 16, increase the amount by sional budget for the United States $71,000,000. annual multinational military training exer- On page 19, line 17, increase the amount by Government for fiscal year 2009 and in- cise, designed to ensure regional peace and $54,000,000. cluding the appropriate budgetary lev- promote regional security cooperation; On page 19, line 21, increase the amount by els for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 Whereas, in the wake of the tragic 2004 tsu- $12,000,000. through 2013; which was ordered to lie nami, the United States and Thailand launched joint relief operations from On page 19, line 25, increase the amount by on the table; as follows: $3,000,000. Utapao, Thailand, strengthening the overall On page 55, line 18, after the word ‘‘pro- On page 20, line 4, increase the amount by capacity of the forces involved in providing gram’’ insert ‘‘or increasing Federal student $1,000,000. relief and setting the model for effective hu- On page 27, line 16, decrease the amount by loan limits’’. manitarian operations throughout the entire $71,000,000. f region affected by the deadly tsunami; On page 27, line 17, decrease the amount by Whereas Thailand is a key partner of the $54,000,000. PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR United States in Southeast Asia and has sup- On page 27, line 21, decrease the amount by Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask ported closer relations between the United States and the Association of Southeast $12,000,000. unanimous consent that Lindsey Miller On page 27, line 25, decrease the amount by Asian Nations; $3,000,000. of my office be granted the privilege of Whereas, on June 22, 2006, Congress agreed On page 28, line 4, decrease the amount by the floor for the duration of the debate to House Concurrent Resolution 409, 109th $1,000,000. on the budget resolution. Congress, commemorating the 60th anniver- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without sary of the ascension to the throne of His SA 4149. Mr. REID (for Mr. BINGA- objection, it is so ordered. Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thai- MAN) proposed an amendment to the land; f resolution S. Res. 178, expressing the Whereas, on December 5, 2007, the people of sympathy of the Senate to the families COMMEMORATING THE 175TH ANNI- Thailand celebrated the 80th birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the of women and girls murdered in Guate- VERSARY OF THE SPECIAL RE- world’s longest-serving monarch, who is mala, and encouraging the United LATIONSHIP BETWEEN U.S. AND loved and respected for his lifelong dedica- States to work with Guatemala to THAILAND tion to the social and economic development bring an end to these crimes; as fol- Mr. REID. I ask unanimous consent of the people of Thailand; lows: that the Committee on Foreign Rela- Whereas, on December 23, 2007, the Royal Thai Government held nationwide par- On page 5, strike line 7 through line 11, and tions be discharged from further con- insert the following: liamentary elections that are paving the way sideration of S. Con. Res. 66. for a successful return of democracy to Thai- (4) urges the Government of Guatemala to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without strengthen laws with respect to domestic vi- land; olence and sexual harassment, to improve objection, it is so ordered. Whereas approximately 500,000 people of the integrity of the prosecutorial and judi- The clerk will report the concurrent Thai descent live in the United States, join- cial systems, and to provide the resources resolution by title. ing in the pursuit of the American Dream; and commitment necessary to adequately The bill clerk read as follows: Whereas Thailand is the 20th largest trad- ing partner of the United States, with bilat- enforce justice for crimes against women; A concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 66) On page 5, insert ‘‘continue to’’ before ‘‘in- eral trade totaling approximately commemorating the 175th anniversary of the $30,600,000,000 per year; and corporate’’ in line 13. commencement of the special relationship On page 5, insert ‘‘continue to’’ after ‘‘en- Whereas the bonds of friendship and mu- between the United States and the Kingdom tual respect between the United States and courages the Secretary of State to’’ in line of Thailand. 18. Thailand are strong: Now, therefore, be it On page 7, beginning in line 7, strike ‘‘all There being no objection, the Senate Resolved by the Senate (the House of Rep- instances of improper investigatory meth- proceeded to consider the concurrent resentatives concurring), That Congress— ods’’ and insert ‘‘instances of failure to in- resolution. (1) commemorates the 175th anniversary of vestigate and prosecute crimes’’. Mr. REID. I ask unanimous consent relations between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand; that the concurrent resolution be SA 4150. Mr. REID (for Mr. BINGA- (2) offers sincere congratulations to the agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, Kingdom of Thailand and the people of Thai- MAN) proposed an amendment to the the motions to reconsider be laid on land for the democratic, free, and fair elec- resolution S. Res. 178, expressing the the table, that there be no intervening tions held on December 23, 2007; sympathy of the Senate to the families action or debate, and that any state- (3) commemorates the 80th birthday of His of women and girls murdered in Guate- ments relating to this matter be print- Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thai- mala, and encouraging the United ed in the RECORD. land and offers sincere congratulations and States to work with Guatemala to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without best wishes for the continued prosperity of the Kingdom of Thailand; and bring an end to these crimes; as fol- objection, it is so ordered. lows: (4) looks forward to continued, enduring The concurrent resolution (S. Con. ties of friendship between the peoples of Strike the third whereas clause of the pre- Res. 66) was agreed to. Thailand and the United States. amble and insert the following: The preamble was agreed to. Whereas, while the overall murder rate in f Guatemala has increased substantially, the The concurrent resolution, with its preamble, reads as follows: MEASURES READ THE FIRST rate at which women have been murdered in TIME—S. 2738 AND S. 2739 Guatemala has increased at an alarming S. CON. RES. 66 rate, almost doubling from 2001 to 2006; Whereas 2008 marks the 175th anniversary Mr. REID. It is my understanding of the signing of the Treaty of Amity and there are two bills at the desk due for SA 4151. Mr. KENNEDY submitted an Commerce between the United States and their first reading. amendment intended to be proposed by the Kingdom of Thailand in 1833, during The PRESIDING OFFICER. The him to the concurrent resolution S. President Andrew Jackson’s administration clerk will report the bills by title.

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CONGRATULATING JUDGE WIL- HONORING THE ACCOMPLISH- Valor Awards in the Fairfax County Police De- LIAM NEALON ON THE OCCASION MENTS OF THE OUACHITA PAR- partment. Receiving the Life Saving Award: OF RECEIVING THE PRESIDENT’S ISH SCHOOL DISTRICT Auxiliary Police Officer Jorge A. Canovas, Pri- AWARD FROM THE FRIENDLY vate First Class Jeremy T. Hoffman, Private SONS OF ST. PATRICK OF HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER First Class Jason J. Mardocco, Sergeant An- LACKAWANNA COUNTY OF LOUISIANA drew B. Wehrlen; Certificate of Valor: Private First Class Christopher L. Coleman, Private IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES First Class Kirk A. McNickle, Private First HON. PAUL E. KANJORSKI Monday, March 10, 2008 OF PENNSYLVANIA Class Richard D. Shughart II, Private First IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise Class Andrew L. Smuck, Private First Class today to commend the Ouachita Parish School Brooks R. Gillingham, Master Police Officer Monday, March 10, 2008 District for its designation as one of the top Mark P. Dale, Detective Gregory S. Bender; Mr. KANJORSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise five school districts in the State of Louisiana, the Silver Medal: Private First Class Paul H. today to ask you and my esteemed colleagues according to rankings recently released by the Bennett III, Officer Brian K. Bowman, Private in the House of Representatives to pay tribute Department of Education. First Class Kirk A. McNickle, Major Michael to U.S. District Court Judge William J. Nealon As test scores throughout the Fifth Congres- LoMonaco, Master Police Officer Gary S. who was chosen to receive the President’s sional District steadily climb each year, I be- Brown, Private First Class Daniel V. Johnson; Award from the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of lieve the continued success of the Ouachita the Bronze Medal: Rosemarie C. Silva. Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania. Parish School District stands as an example of Madam Speaker, in closing, we would like On December 15, 2007, Judge Nealon cele- hope and encouragement to other schools in to take this opportunity to thank all the men brated his 45th year as a United States Dis- the state who are striving to improve their cur- and women who serve in the Fairfax County trict Court Judge. Appointed to the Federal rent rankings. Police Department. Their efforts, made on be- bench by President John F. Kennedy on De- The Fifth Congressional District has long half of the citizens of Fairfax County, are self- cember 15, 1962, he was the youngest Fed- struggled to overcome its status as one of the less acts of heroism and truly merit our high- eral judge in the country. poorest regions in the country with an edu- est praise. We ask our colleagues to join us Judge Nealon served the Middle District as cational system that is often ranked very low. in applauding this group of remarkable citi- Chief Judge from 1976 until 1989. He has The achievements of the Ouachita Parish zens. served on this court longer than any other School District give me great hope that our re- judge in the history of the Middle District. gion can defy its history. f Today, he is the third most tenured federal When children excel in school, the trans- judge in the nation out of 1,100 federal jurists. formation that takes place within their lives PERSONAL EXPLANATION The proud product of Scranton Public spills out beyond the walls of the classroom Schools, he later served in the United States and into the community in which they live, and Marine Corps from 1942 to 1945 where he I believe the Ouachita Parish School District is HON. HILDA L. SOLIS held the rank of first lieutenant. He received a stimulating such progress in North Louisiana. OF CALIFORNIA bachelor of science degree in economics from Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Villanova University in 1947 and was awarded me today in honoring the efforts of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his Juris Doctor degree from the Catholic Uni- Ouachita Parish School District and its com- Monday, March 10, 2008 versity of America in 1950. Prior to being ap- mitment to improving education and the quality pointed to the Federal bench, Judge Nealon of life in Ouachita Parish and throughout the Ms. SOLIS. Madam Speaker, during rollcall served on the Court of Common Pleas of State. vote No. 107 on motion to appeal the ruling of Lackawanna County. f the Chair, I was unavoidably detained. Had I In 1983, the Association of Trial Lawyers of been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ America, a professional society of more than RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX COUN- 50,000 trial lawyers, named Judge Nealon the TY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2008 f ‘‘Outstanding Federal Trial Judge in the United VALOR AWARD RECIPIENTS States.’’ He has been the recipient of numer- PERSONAL EXPLANATION ous community awards and has served as HON. TOM DAVIS chairman of several local boards, including the OF VIRGINIA HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY University of Scranton, Mercy Hospital, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Catholic Youth Center. OF CALIFORNIA Having served as president of the Friendly Monday, March 10, 2008 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sons of St. Patrick of Lackawanna County Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I some 44 years ago, his dinner in 1964 was re- rise today on behalf of my Virginia colleagues Monday, March 10, 2008 garded as one of the most memorable the so- FRANK WOLF and JAMES MORAN to recognize ciety has ever held. Robert F. Kennedy, the an outstanding group of men and women in Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, on March United States Attorney General, made his first northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Cham- 6, 2008, I was unavoidably detained and was public appearance that evening just 4 months ber of Commerce annually recognizes individ- not able to record my votes for rollcall Nos. after the tragic assassination of his brother, uals who have demonstrated superior dedica- 103–107. President John F. Kennedy. Judge Nealon tion to public safety with the prestigious Valor Had I been present I would have voted: roll- today is the most senior of distinguished past Award. Several members of the Fairfax Coun- call No. 103—‘‘yes’’—Providing for consider- presidents of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick ty Police Department have earned this highest ation of H.R. 2857, to reauthorize and reform of Lackawanna County. honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its the national service laws; rollcall No. 104— Madam Speaker, please join me in con- public safety officials. ‘‘yes’’—Providing for consideration of H.R. gratulating Judge Nealon on this auspicious There are several types of Valor Awards 2857, to reauthorize and reform the national occasion. Judge Nealon’s faithful service to that can be awarded to a public safety officer: service laws; rollcall No. 105—‘‘no’’—Flake of his community and to his Nation is well known the Life Saving Award, the Certificate of Valor, Arizona Amendment; rollcall No. 106—‘‘yes’’— throughout northeastern and central Pennsyl- or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. Inslee of Washington Amendment; rollcall No. vania and has been an inspiration to all whose It is with great pride that we enter into the 107—‘‘yes’’—Generations Invigorating Vol- lives he has touched. record the names of the recipients of the 2008 unteerism and Education ‘‘GIVE’’ Act.

∑ 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 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K10MR8.001 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E336 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 10, 2008 CONGRATULATING THE HIGHLAND for just over 30 seconds, this display was Madam Speaker, in closing, we would like PARK GIRLS SWIMMING AND seen as a huge accomplishment to the crowds to take this opportunity to thank all the men DIVING TEAM that witnessed the event. The manufacturing and women who serve in the Vienna Police and research center Bell Aerospace in the Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of HON. PETE SESSIONS town of Wheatfield was instrumental in cre- the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts OF TEXAS ating jobs in Niagara County. This plant is of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES well-known around the world for its heli- We ask our colleagues to join us in applaud- copters, rocket belts, and lunar modules. The ing this group of remarkable citizens. Monday, March 10, 2008 rocket powered Bell X–1 supersonic aircraft f Mr. SESSIONS. Madam Speaker, it is with that broke the sound barrier was piloted in great pleasure that I rise today to congratulate 1947, by the renowned Chuck Yeager. This PERSONAL EXPLANATION the Highland Park Girls Swimming and Diving historic craft is now displayed in the Smithso- Team on winning the title of UIL 4A State nian National Air and Space Museum. HON. HILDA L. SOLIS Champions. Not only was Niagara County a leader in OF CALIFORNIA In his first year coaching at Highland Park, aviation, it was instrumental in the develop- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Jess Cole led the girls to their eighth consecu- ment and expansion of the telegraph machine Monday, March 10, 2008 and the telephone in western New York. Niag- tive win in the UIL Texas State Championship Ms. SOLIS. Madam Speaker, during rollcall ara County was the location of the second on Saturday, February 23, 2008. Those who vote No. 105 on H.R. 2857—GIVE Act, the telegraph line in the United States. The line competed at the State meet include Allison Ar- Flake amendment, I was unavoidably de- was constructed in 1845 and stretched all the nold, Megan Arnold, Hannah Ferrin, Bolton tained. Had I been present, I would have way from Lockport to Buffalo. The telegraph Harris, Delaney Rolfe, Katy Streepey, Katy voted ‘‘no.’’ Tye, and Alex Weber. Their continued success line provided a service experienced by few up f can be attributed to their hard work, dedica- to this time in history. The first major message tion, passion for swimming, and a strong sent on this telegraph line was the results of TRIBUTE TO VICE ADMIRAL sense of team spirit. In addition to claiming the the 1845 elections. The first telephone arrived FRANK DAY MCMULLEN, JR., title of State Champions, the Highland Park in Niagara County in 1878, just 2 years after USN (RET.) Girls Swimming and Diving Team now holds Alexander Graham Bell patented this inven- the longest State record in UIL swimming and tion. This telephone connected Cataract Bank HON. IKE SKELTON diving, matching Class A Booker’s record in with the home of the bank officer. People OF MISSOURI girls golf as the longest in Texas high school came from all over the county to view this life- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES altering invention. sports since recordkeeping began in 1910. Monday, March 10, 2008 Madam Speaker, I ask my esteemed col- This bicentennial should be a celebration of leagues to join me in congratulating the mem- the residents of Niagara County past and Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me bers of the Highland Park Girls Swimming and present. The traditions of hard work and dedi- take this means to pay tribute to VADM Frank Diving Team for their well-deserved victory cation have been instilled in this community. Day McMullen, Jr. A native of Kansas City, and wish them all the best in future endeav- You can tell when you meet the people of Ni- MO, he bravely served our country for 36 ors. agara County that they are all willing to lend years in the United States Navy. Vice Admiral a hand and help a neighbor. McMullen passed away on January 2, 2008. f Thus, Madam Speaker, in recognition of its Frank McMullen graduated from the United TRIBUTE TO NIAGARA COUNTY ON rich history, innovation, and its wonderful resi- States Naval Academy in 1947. He received ITS 200TH ANNIVERSARY dents, I ask that this honorable body join me his post-graduate degree from The George in celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Ni- Washington University. He also attended the HON. THOMAS M. REYNOLDS agara county. National War College and served as deputy assistant to the Secretary of Defense for OF NEW YORK f Atomic Energy. Vice Admiral McMullen’s ex- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX COUN- traordinary career led him to command one Monday, March 10, 2008 TY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2008 diesel electric and two nuclear powered sub- VALOR AWARD RECIPIENTS Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, it is with marines, the Submarine Squadron in the Holy great pride and delight that I rise today to rec- Loch, Scotland, the Submarine Fortilla in New ognize and celebrate Niagara County on its HON. TOM DAVIS London, CT, and the Submarine Forces, U.S. 200th anniversary. OF VIRGINIA Pacific Fleet, in Pearl Harbor, HI. From the locks of the Erie Canal to the roar IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Vice Admiral McMullen was very fortunate of Niagara Falls, and from its rich history to its Monday, March 10, 2008 to have the love and understanding of his fam- wonderful and generous people, Niagara Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I ily who encouraged him, even when he left County has much to celebrate on its bicenten- rise today on behalf of my Virginia colleagues home to serve on lengthy deployments. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth, who nial. FRANK WOLF and JAMES MORAN to recognize The first settlers of this area were amazed an outstanding group of men and women in passed away in November 2002, and his and continually challenged by the geographic northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Cham- daughter Christine, who passed away in surprises that awaited them. The most well- ber of Commerce annually recognizes individ- March 1994. Vice Admiral McMullen truly loved his work known surprise is the 12,000-year-old Niagara uals who have demonstrated superior dedica- and was very proud of his service to our coun- Falls, which the early settlers looked upon as tion to public safety with the prestigious Valor try. I hope Members of the House will join me an unexplained phenomenon of nature. While Award. Several members of the Vienna Police in honoring this outstanding Missourian, an ex- the breathtaking, yet hazardous, Niagara Falls Department have earned this highest honor traordinary naval officer, and a wonderful hus- rushes 6 million cubic feet of water over its that Fairfax County bestows upon its public band, father, and friend. edges every minute during its daytime peak, safety officials. the falls did stand still on March 29, 1848. An There are several types of Valor Awards f ice blockade on Lake Erie stopped the flow of that can be awarded to a public safety officer: CONDEMNING THE ONGOING PAL- water into the falls, allowing for an opportunity the Life Saving Award, the Certificate of Valor, ESTINIAN ROCKET ATTACKS ON for people to explore the cliffs of Niagara or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. ISRAELI CIVILIANS Falls. The falls remains the largest attraction It is with great pride that we enter into the in Niagara County, attracting millions of tour- record the names of the recipients of the 2008 SPEECH OF ists every year. Valor Awards in the Vienna Police Depart- HON. BARBARA LEE Niagara County was one of the pioneers in ment. Receiving the Life Saving Award: Ser- OF CALIFORNIA aviation with its ‘‘Grand Balloon Ascension’’ in geant Anthony R. Clingerman, Master Police IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES July 1858. This display of aeronautical inge- Officer Jared B. Evans, Master Police Officer nuity brought crowds from all over Niagara J. Michael Oliver, Master Police Officer H. Wednesday, March 5, 2008 County, and also many of the surrounding Trent Nelson; the Silver Medal: Sergeant An- Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I voted for this reso- counties. While the balloon remained in the air thony R. Clingerman. lution because I believe we must condemn the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.004 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E337 rocket attacks launched from Gaza into Israel. HONORING DR. FREDERICK ‘‘SKIP’’ RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX COUN- Many innocent persons, both Israeli and Pal- BERRIEN TY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2008 estinian, have been killed or injured in the vio- VALOR AWARD RECIPIENTS lence. In addition to death and injury, the on- HON. JOE COURTNEY going violence has destroyed property, in- OF CONNECTICUT HON. TOM DAVIS stilled fear, and disrupted the lives of innocent IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF VIRGINIA civilians on both sides of the conflict. Monday, March 10, 2008 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I appreciate that the resolution helps docu- Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, for over Monday, March 10, 2008 ment the toll that rocket attacks have exacted three decades, Dr. Frederick ‘‘Skip’’ Berrien Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I on Israeli civilians. But I very much regret that has been a prominent figure in Connecticut’s rise today on behalf of my Virginia colleagues, the resolution misses an important opportunity medical, academic, and child welfare commu- FRANK WOLF and JAMES MORAN, to recognize to acknowledge the complexity of problems nities. This month, he will retire as the director an outstanding group of men and women in and issues which give rise to the conflict. And for the Child Abuse/Children’s Advocacy Cen- northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Cham- I am particularly troubled that the resolution ter at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, Con- ber of Commerce annually recognizes individ- fails to recognize the depth and breadth of necticut. I rise today to recognize and cele- uals who have demonstrated superior dedica- human suffering, misery, and death that has brate his illustrious career and his contribu- tion to public safety with the prestigious Valor been visited upon the people of Gaza. tions to our friends and neighbors in Con- Award. Several members of the Herndon Po- Mr. Speaker, the humanitarian situation in necticut. lice Department have earned this highest Between 1980 and 1987, Dr. Berrien served Gaza has only worsened since the armed honor that Fairfax County bestows upon its as the director of pediatrics and acting medical takeover by Hamas in June 2007. Basic items public safety officials. director in general pediatrics at the UConn/ There are several types of Valor Awards such as baby milk, wheat grain, vegetable oil, Mount Sinai Health Center. Following his ten- that can be awarded to a public safety officer: and dairy products are in short supply. Addi- ure at the UConn/Mount Sinai Health Center, the Life Saving Award, the Certificate of Valor, tionally, the tightening of restrictions on the Dr. Berrien assumed an associate director po- or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. movement of goods and people by the Israeli sition for pediatric ambulatory services at Saint It is with great pride that we enter into the government is causing serious hardship ac- Francis Hospital. He subsequently served as record the names of the recipients of the 2008 cording to the United Nations Office for the director of pediatric ambulatory services, clin- Valor Awards in the Herndon Police Depart- Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA. ical director for sickle cell services, co-director ment. Receiving the Certificate of Valor: Ser- The OCHA has found that these restrictions of the Siberian American Children’s Health geant Stephen Thompson, Senior Police Offi- have had the effect of preventing the people Program, and director of child abuse services/ cer James J. Passmore, Officer Adil Afab, and of Gaza from receiving desperately needed Children’s Advocacy Center at St. Francis. Be- Officer Michael R. Croson. healthcare treatments like chemotherapy and ginning in 2001, Dr. Berrien joined the Con- Madam Speaker, in closing, we would like radiation therapy for cancer patients, pediatric necticut Children’s Medical Center as a con- to take this opportunity to thank all the men surgery, and neurosurgery. The restrictions on sultant for the Suspected Child Abuse and Ne- and women who serve in the Herndon Police the movement of goods make it difficult for glect Program. Department. Their efforts, made on behalf of healthcare providers to obtain new diagnostic While the size and scope of Skip’s medical the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless acts medical equipment or the parts to service ex- career is clear, his contributions to the aca- of heroism and truly merit our highest praise. isting equipment that has fallen into disrepair. demic and social services community have We ask our colleagues to join us in applaud- To make matters worse, it appears that those also been substantial. From 1977 to 1979, Dr. ing this group of remarkable citizens. Palestinians who want to leave Gaza to pur- Berrien was a clinical instructor at Boston Uni- f versity and from 1980 until present, an asso- sue treatment in Israel or abroad are finding it PERSONAL EXPLANATION difficult to do so. ciate professor of clinical pediatrics at UConn School of Medicine. His original research Mr. Speaker, ensuring that humanitarian as- ranges from the state of Russian pediatric HON. HILDA L. SOLIS sistance is available and accessible to the health care to pediatric sickle cell pain man- OF CALIFORNIA people of Gaza is one of the most important agement. His work in Russia after the fall of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES steps that can be taken to ensure that the the Soviet Union, established new, enduring Monday, March 10, 2008 peace process succeeds and is not derailed partnerships with Russian doctors that has Ms. SOLIS. Madam Speaker, during rollcall by continued violence. It is for this reason that benefited both countries. I recently wrote to Secretary of State Rice urg- Dr. Berrien has added to his role of pro- vote No. 106 on H.R. 2857, GIVE Act, the Ins- ing her to do all she can to make certain that viding and teaching pediatric care, to serving lee Amendment, I was unavoidably detained. vital humanitarian goods and services are suc- as a forceful advocate for issues such as pre- Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ cessfully delivered in Gaza. I believe the moral vention of child abuse and neglect. In the f force of the resolution would have been en- early 1990’s, he was instrumental with devel- HONORING SCOTTS HILL LIONS hanced had it called for similar action. oping the Child Abuse/Children’s Advocacy CLUB Finally, this resolution cites the roles of Iran, Center at St. Francis Hospital. At the time Syria, and in enabling these attacks. I there was no program at all to deal with this HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN critical unmet need in central Connecticut. want to be clear that nothing recited in the OF TENNESSEE resolution would justify a preemptive military Today as Dr. Berrien leaves, the center is one IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the most respected such programs in the response against these countries nor should it Monday, March 10, 2008 be used as grounds to build a case for such country and has brought both compassion and Mrs. BLACKBURN. Madam Speaker, I ask an action. justice to this challenging area of law and medicine. In addition, Skip remains an active my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Mr. Speaker, the rocket attacks against participant of such organizations as the Amer- Scotts Hill Lions Club as they celebrate their Israel condemned by this resolution have ican Professional Society on the Abuse of 60th anniversary. caused great suffering to the victims. Acknowl- Children, the International Society for Preven- The Scotts Hill Lions Club was chartered on edging that suffering in a congressional reso- tion of Child Abuse and Neglect, and the Hart- March 30, 1948, due to the hard work and vi- lution is a fitting and proper thing to do. But at ford Multidisciplinary Intervention Child Abuse sion of Scott Hill’s Mayor Erin Holland and the end of the day, the peace and justice we Team. Adamsville Lions’ Club member Farris Staf- all seek will not come from passing a resolu- Medical professionals serve an invaluable ford. As a chartered member, the Scotts Hill tion in Congress. Rather, a just and lasting role in our society. They are protectors of pub- Lions Club became part of Lions Club Inter- peace will come from the parties resolving in lic health, and purveyors of hope and social national, which is the world’s largest service their hearts and minds to rededicate them- justice. Throughout his career, Dr. Berrien has club organization with more than 46,000 clubs selves to the active engagement in good faith exemplified each of these roles. Madam in over 190 countries and approximately 1.4 negotiation to bring the two-state solution into Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me million members. being. I call upon the Administration to redou- and my constituents with recognizing his con- Over the course of the last 60 years, the ble its efforts in discharging its indispensable tributions and offering our warmest wishes for Scotts Hill Lions Club members have volun- role as honest broker in the peace process. his retirement. teered their time, energy, and resources to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.009 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E338 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 10, 2008 supporting local charities, providing care for ground on her own by spearheading a ‘‘night ber of Commerce annually recognizes individ- families in need, and have generously contrib- out’’ for victims of violent crime. Konopka says uals who have demonstrated superior dedica- uted towards relief efforts at home and in she wants the event, planned for 2009 in tion to public safety with the prestigious Valor countries throughout the world. To say the Washington, to call attention to the fact that 1 Award. Several members of the Fairfax Coun- least, the Scotts Hill Lions Club has undoubt- out of 3 in this country are sexually assaulted ty Fire and Rescue Department have earned edly lived out their club’s motto, ‘‘We serve.’’ at some point in their lives. this highest honor that Fairfax County bestows I commend the members of the Scotts Hill Madam Speaker, I hope the House will join upon its public safety officials. Lions Club and encourage others to follow me in thanking and congratulating Jacqueline There are several types of Valor Awards their example of dedication and service. Their Konopka and the Law Enforcement Assistance that can be awarded to a public safety officer: hard work will not only be felt locally but Connection Inc. for all that they give and all the Life Saving Award, the Certificate of Valor, around the world for years to come. that they do to support the public servants or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. Please join me in honoring the Scotts Hill who do so much for all Americans. It is with great pride that we enter into the record the names of the recipients of the 2008 Lions Club, President Dan Brigance, Secretary f Pattie Stewart, and other officers and mem- Valor Awards in the Fairfax County Fire and bers in wishing them the best on this well-de- IN RECOGNITION OF THE RAMAPO Rescue Department. Receiving the Certificate served anniversary. COLLEGE DISTINGUISHED CITI- of Valor: Acting Technician Ronald S. ZENS DINNER 2008 Seghetti, Firefighter Jason P. Kelly; the Gold f Medal: Lieutenant Danny R. Urps, Master HONORING JACQUELINE KONOPKA HON. SCOTT GARRETT Technician John F. Linhart, Master Technician Joseph K. Swift, Firefighter Medic William F. OF NEW JERSEY Ward; the Silver Medal: Captain Richard C. HON. LYNN A. WESTMORELAND IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF GEORGIA Smith, Firefighter John A. Fleming; the Bronze Monday, March 10, 2008 Medal: Firefighter George H. Moore, Battalion IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam Chief Floyd L. Ellmore, Firefighter Richard M. Monday, March 10, 2008 Speaker, I rise today to recognize four individ- Tamillow. Mr. WESTMORELAND. Madam Speaker, uals who have been named by the Ramapo Madam Speaker, in closing, we would like volunteers who work on behalf of public safety College Foundation Board of Governors as the to take this opportunity to thank all the men officers thicken and strengthen the Thin Blue 2008 Distinguished Citizens. This honor high- and women who serve in the Fairfax County Line. lights their personal and professional commit- Fire and Rescue Department. Their efforts, Tens of thousands of police officers daily ment to advance higher education and their made on behalf of the citizens of Fairfax risk the ultimate sacrifice in order to serve a significant service to the community. County, are selfless acts of heroism and truly greater good. These public servants have a James E. Jaworski, Esq.; Patricia B. merit our highest praise. We ask our col- friend behind the scenes working on their be- Shrader, Esq.; Drew Nieporent, and Edward leagues to join us in applauding this group of half in the Law Enforcement Assistance Con- P. Wallace, Jr. each support Ramapo College remarkable citizens. nection Inc. in their own unique ways while exemplifying f Today, I call the House’s attention to Jac- the school’s commitment to high standards of PAUL WELLSTONE MENTAL queline Konopka, a 25-year-old constituent educational excellence. HEALTH AND ADDICTION EQUITY from Newnan in Georgia’s Third Congres- In addition, these individuals are recognized ACT OF 2007 sional District. Jackie has gone above and be- for their dedication and unfailing commitment yond to aid the Law Enforcement Assistance to our community. Our communities are only SPEECH OF Connection. as strong as the people and organizations that HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY A flight attendant for AirTran Airways, Jackie are willing to put their time, effort, and energy OF CALIFORNIA became involved with LEAC after meeting the into building them. I applaud Ramapo College IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES organization’s founder and leader on one of for honoring these individuals and, in doing so, her flights. Terry Hunt’s description of his work the true spirit of community that helps to make Wednesday, March 5, 2008 on behalf of law enforcement on that fateful our country a symbol of strength and hope Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, Despite the flight won over a new and tireless volunteer. worldwide. fact that 44 million Americans suffer from But Konopka says she’s an easy sell when it Ramapo College of New Jersey is located in mental health disorders, a majority of health comes to aiding public safety officials. ‘‘As a Mahwah, New Jersey. Designated as ‘‘New care plans continue to treat mental health dif- flight attendant,’’ she says, ‘‘public safety is Jersey’s Public Liberal Arts College,’’ Ramapo ferently than physical health. These plans dis- my No. 1 priority.’’ is a comprehensive institution of higher edu- criminate against those with mental health dis- Today, Hunt sees Konopka’s work as inte- cation whose faculty and staff dedicate them- orders by imposing financial limitations and gral to his organization’s mission: ‘‘Jacqueline selves to the promotion of teaching and learn- treatment restrictions on mental health and ad- Konopka has shown me the true meaning of ing within a strong liberal arts based cur- diction care. Over 80 percent of Americans life and inspired me to achieve and overcome riculum. Its curricular emphasis includes the who need mental health treatment do not seek personal and professional obstacles. A loyal liberal arts and sciences, social sciences, fine it because of the restrictions or the cost. This friend and adviser, Jackie is someone I admire and performing arts, and the professional pro- is unacceptable. Americans with mental health for her perseverance, leadership skills, drive grams within a residential and sustainable liv- disorders need and deserve the same level of and dedication in all she has done and con- ing and learning environment. coverage as those who suffer from physical tinues to do. She is extremely special to me— It is an honor to represent such fine people disorders, and with the passage of this bill, we in fact, it’s not a stretch to say that had it not and institutions in the U.S. House of Rep- can help give them that coverage. been for her willingness and selflessness to resentatives. This bill closes the loophole that has al- advance LEAC’s goals, this organization f lowed plans to charge patients more and im- would not function.’’ pose additional limits for mental health care. LEAC takes part in various activities to pro- RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX COUN- Efforts to weaken the bill by allowing plans to mote the welfare of law enforcement authori- TY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2008 determine which mental health benefits to ties, including the Annual Benefit for the Na- VALOR AWARD RECIPIENTS cover or preempting State laws providing tional Law Enforcement Officers Memorial stronger mental health protections will allow Fund Gala in Washington, the Annual Chari- HON. TOM DAVIS discrimination to continue against the millions table Golf Classic to support the Law Enforce- OF VIRGINIA of Americans who need our support in their ef- ment Assistance Connection; and A Matter of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES forts to seek treatment. Honor Annual Golf Event and Gala for the Na- I urge everyone to vote for H.R. 1424, the tional Law Enforcement Museum in Wash- Monday, March 10, 2008 Paul Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction ington. Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I Equity Act, and these people whose lives de- Konopka helps plan and organize these rise today on behalf of my Virginia colleagues pend on the treatment they need and deserve. events, but she describes her efforts on behalf FRANK WOLF and JAMES MORAN to recognize Members of Congress have mental health par- of the LEAC as mainly ‘‘serving as a support an outstanding group of men and women in ity. It’s high time we provide parity to the 44 for Terry.’’ Nevertheless, she’s breaking new northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Cham- million Americans who need it.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.013 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E339 PAUL WELLSTONE MENTAL There are several types of Valor Awards HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE HEALTH AND ADDICTION EQUITY that can be awarded to a public safety officer: OF MS. KAY BEARD ACT OF 2007 the Life Saving Award, the Certificate of Valor, or the Gold, Silver, or Bronze Medal of Valor. SPEECH OF It is with great pride that we enter into the HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER HON. HILDA L. SOLIS RECORD the names of the recipients of the OF MICHIGAN OF CALIFORNIA 2008 Valor Awards in the Fairfax County IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sheriff’s Office. Receiving the Certificate of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, March 5, 2008 Valor: First Lieutenant Tyler D. Corey and Pri- Monday, March 10, 2008 vate First Class Michael W. Ittner. Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Madam Speaker, in closing, we would like Mr. MCCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I strong support of H.R. 1424, the Paul to take this opportunity to thank all the men Wellstone Mental Health and Addiction Equity rise to honor and acknowledge Kay Beard, and women who serve in the Fairfax County Act of 2007. Wayne County Commissioner and dedicated Sheriff’s Office. Their efforts, made on behalf As a society, we must fight for the rights of community advocate, upon her retirement from of the citizens of Fairfax County, are selfless people who seek mental health and substance a distinguished 30-year career in public serv- acts of heroism and truly merit our highest abuse treatment. ice. praise. We ask our colleagues to join us in ap- Vulnerable individuals with mental illnesses Kay became interested in politics at an early continue to face numerous barriers when plauding this group of remarkable citizens. age at the knee of her grandmother who used seeking care, and we must work together to remove these barriers especially for diverse f to host meetings of the local congressional delegation in their Detroit home. Throughout communities. COMMENDING THE LSU COLLEGE her life, Kay was active in civic and community Latinos already have lower rates of em- OF EDUCATION FOR REACHING ployer-sponsored health insurance and lower ITS CENTENNIAL organizations, but did not run for political office rates of insurance with mental health cov- until 1972 when she launched an unsuccessful erage. bid for State representative. Undeterred, Kay In California, 77 percent of Latinos’ mental HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER ran for Wayne County commissioner in 1976, health treatment was covered by their insur- OF LOUISIANA Kay was later appointed to fill a vacancy on ance, compared to 85 percent of Whites. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Wayne County Commission in April 1978. The Supplement to the Report of the Sur- Subsequently, Kay never failed to win another geon General on Mental Health found that Monday, March 10, 2008 Latinos with mental disorders underutilize election she ran in including her most recent Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise reelection in 2006 to her 15th term. Her 30 mental health services. today to commend the Louisiana State Univer- Fewer than 1 in 11 Latinos with a mental years on the commission made her the long- sity (LSU) College of Education for reaching disorder seeks help with a mental health spe- its centennial. est serving member ever. cialist. While managing the daily tasks of a county We must do more to help people with men- Since its establishment, the college has pre- commissioner, Kay gave back a tremendous tal health disorders and addiction. pared thousands of educational leaders, in- I hope that mental health parity will help re- cluding supervisors, principals, superintend- amount of time and effort to her community. duce barriers to their care, such as coverage, ents, and university faculty and administrators. Kay served on the National Advisory Council stigma and discrimination to mental health Originally named the ‘‘Teachers’ College,’’ for School-to-Work Opportunities, the Senior care. the LSU College of Education employed two Advisory Council of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of We cannot let insurers continue to discrimi- faculty members at its founding in 1908. In Michigan, the United Way Community Serv- nate against which diagnoses should be cov- 1939, the college expanded to include the ices Board of Directors, and was a founding ered and which ones are not. School of Health & Physical Education, pres- member of Hospices of Michigan. Her efforts ently named the Department of Kinesiology. We should not compromise our efforts to did not go unnoticed by the citizens of Michi- stop the persistent discrimination in our mental This department, initially focused on teacher gan. The Michigan Democratic Women’s Cau- health and substance abuse health care sys- education, has now expanded to include na- tem. tionally and internationally recognized re- cus presented her with its highest honor, the This bill is a step forward for people who search and scholarship programs that gen- Eleanor Roosevelt Award. She was also a re- suffer from mental illnesses and for their fami- erate and disseminate knowledge about all as- cipient of the Westland ATHENA Award and in lies, but we in Congress must do more to en- pects of the art and science of human move- honor of her achievements has had a building able the millions of Americans to receive the ment. on the grounds of the Eloise Psychiatric Hos- mental health care they need and deserve. These days the college is a collaborative pital renamed the Kay Beard Building. I urge my colleagues to vote in support of unit that prepares educational and wellness During her 15 terms on the Wayne County this landmark legislation. professionals. With oversight responsibilities Board of Commissioners, Ms. Beard has dealt f for various professional certification programs with issues ranging from the termination of the spanning four colleges and one school, the RECOGNIZING THE FAIRFAX COUN- college also oversees the K–12 University drain commissioner’s job, a failed smoking TY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2008 Laboratory School, which has been ranked ban, the creation of an antifraud law, and a VALOR AWARD RECIPIENTS among the nation’s top 2.5 percent of public valiant yet unsuccessful attempt to save high schools by Newsweek as well as boasts Wayne County General Hospital. Ms. Beard HON. TOM DAVIS the state’s first international baccalaureate felt that spirited opposition was the touchstone OF VIRGINIA program. of democracy. Despite displaying a vibrant IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The LSU College of Education today em- spirit, Kay has been ordered by her doctor to Monday, March 10, 2008 ploys more than 200 faculty and professional step down for health reasons. Her loss will be Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, I staff to provide rigorous academic programs, felt by all the citizens of Wayne County who rise today on behalf of my Virginia colleagues highlighted by challenging, rich and collabo- wish her nothing but happiness. rative experiences. FRANK WOLF and JAMES MORAN to recognize Madam Speaker, for 30 years Commis- an outstanding group of men and women in To celebrate the 100th birthday of the col- sioner Kay Beard has faithfully served Michi- northern Virginia. The Fairfax County Cham- lege, the LSU College of Education is hosting gan and Wayne County. As she enters the ber of Commerce annually recognizes individ- a series of events throughout the 2008–2009 uals who have demonstrated superior dedica- anniversary year, including a kick-off centen- next phase of her life, she leaves behind a tion to public safety with the prestigious Valor nial celebration, special lecture series, visiting legacy of dedication, integrity, and excellence. Award. Two Members of the Fairfax County scholars, and nationwide alumni celebrations. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in con- Sheriff’s Office have earned this highest honor Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join gratulating Commissioner Kay Beard upon her that Fairfax County bestows upon its public me in honoring the LSU College of Education retirement and recognizing her years of loyal safety officials. for reaching this landmark year. service to our community and country.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.018 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E340 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 10, 2008 CONGRATULATING THE HASTINGS of Crime, Suzanne coordinated field hearings Tom’s contributions to California’s environ- ST. CECILIA BLUEHAWKS that launched victims’ rights into a national mental community have been public and polit- concern. In addition, Suzanne served on the ical, as well as private and personal. Tom has HON. ADRIAN SMITH board of the National Organization for Victim served as a lecturer at law schools at the Uni- OF NEBRASKA Assistance for 10 years. versity of California—Berkeley and Harvard. When I came to Congress, I founded the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES His constant practice of mentoring junior col- Congressional Victim’s Rights Caucus to pro- leagues and law students has been spoken Monday, March 10, 2008 vide a voice for and to advocate on behalf of highly of. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, crime victims. The Caucus honors individuals, In everything that Tom Graff has aspired to Today, I want to congratulate the Hastings St. organizations, and advocates that have truly do, he has helped broaden Californians’ un- Cecilia Bluehawks on winning the Nebraska made a difference for crime victims. Instead of derstanding of the challenges of balancing en- Class C-I Boys Basketball Championship on honoring Suzanne’s contributions with an vironmental and economic concerns, and the Saturday, March 8, 2008. award, the Caucus has named an award after use of California’s natural resources. It is that In a game dominated by the defense, the her, to forever honor her work, dedication, and effort that I recognize before you today. Bluehawks finished ahead of previously un- compassion. On April 9, 2008, the Congres- f beaten Bennington by a score of 50 to 43— sional Victim’s Rights Caucus will present its all the more remarkable when you consider first ‘‘Suzanne McDaniel Public Awareness SEVEN KILLED IN SHOOTING AT the score was only 24–22 at the beginning of Award.’’ And that’s just the way it is. JERUSALEM SEMINARY the fourth quarter. f Both teams deserve congratulations for fin- IN RECOGNITION OF THOMAS J. HON. YVETTE D. CLARKE ishing a great year. As one of the Bluehawks’ GRAFF OF NEW YORK coaches remarked, ‘‘This group can do any- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES thing they want to do when they put their Monday, March 10, 2008 minds to it.’’ HON. JIM COSTA OF CALIFORNIA I think that phrase can be used to sum up Ms. CLARKE. Madam Speaker, last Thurs- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES all of the great athletes who dedicated them- day was a tragic day in Jerusalem. An ‘‘act of selves this year, whether they made the Monday, March 10, 2008 terror and depravity’’ as Secretary Rice de- championship game or not. Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to fined it, took the lives of eight young students, f recognize Thomas J. Graff, senior counsel to while gathering to have dinner. the Environmental Defense Fund of California. At 8:45 pm, Thursday night, two terrorists THE SUZANNE MCDANIEL PUBLIC His more than 35 years as a leader in Califor- infiltrated to a Jewish seminary in Jerusalem AWARENESS AWARD nia’s environmental and water communities is and opened fire in a dining hall. The shooting to be commended, a service that he has per- was continuing for a few minutes until police HON. TED POE formed with intelligence, passion, and humor. forces arrived and the gunmen were stopped. OF TEXAS Tom joined the California bar after receiving Eight students were killed and seven others IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES graduate degrees from the London School of were wounded and are still hospitalized. Mercaz Harav Seminary is a center for Monday, March 10, 2008 Economics and Harvard Law School. In 1971, Tom founded the first California office of the studying of Judaism that is located in Kiryat Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, Suzanne Environmental Defense Fund. The modern en- Moshe quarter at the entrance of the city. The McDaniel is one of the ‘‘Old Buffalos,’’ which vironmental movement was in its infancy, but seminary holds around 500 students, including is what we call the first advocates in the vic- Tom Graff learned quickly. foreigners, some of them Americans. In this tims’ rights field. I met Suzanne 25 years ago, Tom worked hard to reform California water specific evening there were about 80 people in when I was a judge on the Harris County Dis- policy, particularly in the Sacramento-San Joa- the dining hall when the gunmen opened fire. trict Court. Suzanne worked as the director of quin Delta. Working closely with colleagues, The victims are Neria Cohen, 15 years old; the Witness Office of the Harris County District allies and adversaries, Tom contributed to Segev Paniel Avihail, 15 years old; Attorney’s Office. She was one of the first projects such as Mono Lake, Imperial Valley, Yehonathan Ytzchak Eldar, 16 years old; prosecutor-based victim advocates in Texas the Central Valley Project Improvement Act, Avraham David Moses, 16 years old; Roy Rot, and in the entire country. Since then, Suzanne CVPIA, and the 1994 Bay-Delta Accord. His 18 years old; Yochai Lifshitz, 18 years old; has tirelessly crusaded for crime victims at the efforts in protecting California water resources Yehonadav Haim Hirshfeld, 19 years old; and local, State and national levels. led to his service on the Colorado River Doron Mahareta, 26 years old. Suzanne began working in the trenches, in Board, where he worked with Californians and I urge my colleagues to come together and the days when victims were looked at as mere water advocates from throughout the Colorado find ways to resolve the conflict in the Middle witnesses in a trial. In Harris County, Texas, River basin. A consistent thread in his environ- East. Suzanne helped create the first community mental and water advocacy was economic so- I would also like to express my deep sorrow interagency council on sexual assault and lutions to complex environmental problems. for the loss of the young students. To the par- family violence. Suzanne then went to work for Tom Graff’s influence crossed over into ents and families of the victims, I offer my sin- the State of Texas in the Governor’s office. other aspects of California’s environment and cerest condolences, and grant the families There she wrote groundbreaking reports on economy as well. In the 1980s, he launched comfort and peace at this time. crime victims and organized conferences to efforts to address acid rains and transportation f train and educate victims, advocates, and al- issues. Governor Pete Wilson appointed Tom lied professions. to the Commission on Transportation Invest- HONORING MARTIN’S MILL LADY Suzanne then brought her knowledge, dedi- ment, where Tom participated in infrastructure MUSTANGS FOR WINNING THE cation, and leadership to the Texas State At- issues. CLASS A DIVISION I TEXAS torney General’s office where she was the While the law is, by nature, adversarial, STATE CHAMPIONSHIP State’s crime victim information officer. In this Tom’s gifted advocacy has gained him the re- position, Suzanne advocated for the passage spect and admiration of many, even those HON. JEB HENSARLING of legislative and regulatory initiatives, includ- considered his adversaries. Many testify to OF TEXAS ing the passage of Texas’ State constitutional Tom’s practice of active listening in order to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES amendment for victims. As a testament to genuinely understand his adversaries’ inter- Suzanne’s significant contributions to the vic- ests. This often resulted in solutions that re- Monday, March 10, 2008 tims’ field, the State coalition of victim organi- solved both sides’ concerns. In sometimes Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, today I zations, VOTERS, appointed her as legislative tense negotiations, Tom was known to insert rise to recognize the Martin’s Mill Lady Mus- liaison. humor as well as perspective to smooth the tangs basketball team for winning the Class A Not only has Suzanne tirelessly advocated way toward resolving potentially intense con- Division I Texas State Championship. for crime victims in Texas, but she brought the flicts. Tom spoke accurately when he said, On March 2, 2008, the Lady Mustangs same drive and compassion to the national ‘‘We cannot repeat the water wars of the made their third straight appearance in the level. In 1984, when President Ronald Reagan past.’’ ‘‘We have to find a way to work to- State tournament since they secured their first created the President’s Task Force on Victims gether, or we will all lose.’’ championship title in 2006. After trading leads

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.020 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E341 throughout the game and trailing late in the stitutions. For 100 years, Ramsey has been 1966–67 season, the Celtics would go a step third quarter, the Lady Mustangs came back to the cherished residence of many Americans. It further by making Bill Russell the first African- secure a 48–43 victory over Sudan. is my hope that the borough of Ramsey will American to coach an NBA team. I especially want to recognize the three sen- continue to be a vibrant community for many I hope all of my colleagues will join me iors on the team, Jordan Barncastle, Taylor years to come. today in honoring Earl Lloyd, Chuck Cooper Daniel and Christa Williams, for the extraor- f and all the individuals who were a part of dinary achievement of securing two State breaking down the color barrier in professional championships. In addition, I want to congratu- CONGRATULATING PERKINS COUN- sports. TY PLAINSMEN ON WINNING late Jordan Barncastle for being named the f tournament’s Most Valuable Player after con- CLASS C–2B NEBRASKA GIRLS tributing 18 points, eight rebounds, and three BASKETBALL STATE TITLE RECOGNIZING EILEEN MCGUCKIAN steals in the championship game. I also want to recognize Head Coach Doug HON. ADRIAN SMITH HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN Barncastle, who began coaching at Martin’s OF NEBRASKA OF MARYLAND Mill High School in 2005 and has led the Lady IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mustangs to the State tournament all 3 years. Monday, March 10, 2008 Monday, March 10, 2008 This victory was extra special since he was coaching his daughter, Jordan Barncastle, in Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Speaker, I rise her last game before graduating and heading rise today to congratulate the Perkins County today to express my appreciation and grati- to Lubbock to play for the Texas Tech Lady Plainsmen on their 62 to 49 victory over Sut- tude to Eileen McGuckian, founder of Peerless Raiders. With the game falling during the ton to take the Class C–2B Nebraska Girls Rockville, for her 35 years of service to the week of his birthday, the victory was an an- Basketball State Title on March 1, 2008. They cause of historic preservation. swered birthday wish for Coach Barncastle. embody the spirit of teamwork, determination, Eileen was driven to take action in 1974, Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Fifth Dis- and heart, which champions display. when she witnessed the demolition of the his- trict of Texas, I am honored to recognize the They finished the season unbeaten, but toric and beautiful Masonic Lodge in Rockville. Martin’s Mill Lady Mustangs—both coaches definitely not untested. Sutton, who allowed an Along with a group of like-minded community and players—for their talent, dedication, and average of just 35 points a game this season, members, she formed Peerless Rockville and exceptional performance. gave the Plainsmen all they could handle, but began raising money for the preservation of f came up short. historic buildings and sites and educating the So, it is with a sense of pride that I con- public on the importance of protecting our CONGRATULATING THE BOROUGH gratulate the Perkins County Plainsmen girls’ shared history. OF RAMSEY, NEW JERSEY, ON basketball team on winning this championship. Peerless Rockville has become a model of ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY This victory is the result of months and years public-private partnership, whose successes of hard work by the players, students, and have included the rescue and preservation of HON. SCOTT GARRETT their coaches. the 1873 B&O Railroad Station, the Montrose OF NEW JERSEY f School and Baptist Cemetery, the Dawson IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES farmhouse, the Grand Courtroom of the Red RECOGNIZING AND HONORING Brick Courthouse, and Wire Hardware, one of Monday, March 10, 2008 EARL LLOYD FOR BECOMING the few examples of 19th century commercial Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam THE FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN architecture remaining in Rockville. In addition, Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate the bor- TO PLAY IN THE NATIONAL BAS- Peerless Rockville fulfills its educational mis- ough of Ramsey, New Jersey, on its centen- KETBALL ASSOCIATION LEAGUE sion by providing walking tours and history nial celebration. Today, March 10, is the 100th programs, and maintaining an impressive col- SPEECH OF anniversary of the incorporation of Ramsey. lection of maps, historic photographs, archi- Ramsey is located at the foothills of the HON. TIMOTHY V. JOHNSON tects’ drawings and other documents. These Ramapo Mountains in northeast New Jersey OF ILLINOIS documents are an invaluable resource for and covers 5.9 square miles. Dutch, English, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES local residents, students and scholars. Eileen Scottish, and German settlers were among the herself made full use of this collection in her Wednesday, March 5, 2008 first colonists to live in Ramsey. The Old award-winning book, Rockville: Portrait of a Stone House was built as a Dutch colonial Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise City. Today, Rockville is a richer and more farmhouse in the 1700s, and it is still pre- today in support of Representative JIM beautiful place thanks to Eileen McGuckian. served today. A gristmill was erected in the MORAN’s House resolution expressing the Madam Speaker, please join me in recog- mid 1780s, and six decades later a railroad sense of Congress to recognize and honor nizing and honoring Eileen McGuckian for 35 station was assembled—both brought com- Earl Lloyd for breaking the color barrier as the years of dedicated and outstanding service to merce and development to the area. Ramsey first African-American to play in the National the city of Rockville and to Montgomery Coun- quickly became known as the strawberry cap- Basketball Association (NBA). ty, Maryland. ital, due to the large amounts of strawberries In addition to Earl Lloyd’s accomplishments f grown in the region and then shipped to other during the 1950 season, I want to take this op- States. portunity to also recognize the Boston Celtics CONDEMNING THE ONGOING PAL- Today, Ramsey is the site of six churches, franchise and legendary coach and general ESTINIAN ROCKET ATTACKS ON three parks, four public schools, and a public manager Red Auerbach for their work in the ISRAELI CIVILIANS library. Several scenes from The Sopranos advancement and inclusion of African-Ameri- episode ‘‘The Happy Wander’’ were shot at cans in the NBA. SPEECH OF the Maple Shade Motel, and Ramsey was also In 1950, before Earl Lloyd became the first HON. MICHAEL E. CAPUANO a setting for scenes from the 2006 film World African-American to play in an NBA game, OF MASSACHUSETTS Trade Center. Several notable Americans Chuck Cooper became the first African-Amer- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES have resided in Ramsey, including Ryan ican to be drafted in the NBA by the Boston Grant, running back for the Green Bay Pack- Celtics in the second round of the selection Wednesday, March 5, 2008 ers; Danny Aiello, a stage and film star; and process. This milestone was the first in a long Mr. CAPUANO. Madam Speaker, I rise to Ryan McGinley, a photographer. Perhaps the list of accomplishments the Celtics organiza- explain the reasons and the scruples that led most distinguished resident to call Ramsey tion has made during their storied history to me to vote ‘‘present’’ on H. Res. 951. ‘‘home’’ was Army Master Sergeant Charles break down the color barrier in professional I would note, first, that the resolution as Ernest Hosking, who received a Medal of sports. amended and passed is more acceptable to Honor for self-sacrificially saving the lives of In addition to drafting the first African-Amer- me than the original draft. Most important to several of his commanders during the Vietnam ican player, Red Auerbach was also the first me is that the amended resolution recognizes war. to have an all African-American starting lineup the suffering of innocent victims on both sides The borough of Ramsey is rich with histor- which included Bill Russell, Willie Naulls, Tom of the conflict. However, I continue to believe ical, cultural, educational, and recreational in- Sanders, Sam Jones and K. C. Jones. In the that resolutions containing language such as

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.024 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E342 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 10, 2008 some of the language in H. Res. 951 do not my view, that are gratuitously confrontational. TRIBUTE TO CLEORA MAGEE advance us towards the most important goal I ask: Have those resolutions moved us any relative to this issue: peaceful co-existence for closer to finding a peaceful solution? The ap- HON. DALE E. KILDEE the region. proach has not worked thus far and I see no OF MICHIGAN The resolution properly states America’s reason to believe it will start working now. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES support for the people of Israel and their right I voted ‘‘present’’ rather than ‘‘no’’ because Monday, March 10, 2008 to defend themselves. It notes the near daily I was in sympathy with much of the resolution. Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today rocket and mortar attacks on southern Israel I voted as a Member of Congress determined that have been launched from the Gaza Strip to pay tribute to Cleora Magee as she retires that the United States act responsibly in pur- as the executive director of the city of Flint since Israel withdrew from Gaza in the inter- suit of peace. ests of peace in 2005. It fairly condemns Human Relations Commission. A celebration will be held in her honor on Saturday, March Hamas and other terrorist organizations. I f have never wavered in my support for Israel’s 15 in my hometown of Flint, Michigan. Cleora Magee has served the people of the right to defend itself against terrorists. I ap- HONORING JOHNNIE BENDY FOR Flint area for many years. After working in the proved their action against the Iraqi nuclear RECEIVING THE LIFETIME registrar’s office at Mott Community College, site. I was bitterly criticized for my defense of ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Cleora became a community organizer at the the ‘‘targeted assassination’’ of Sheikh Yassin Urban Coalition of Greater Flint. She went on in 2004. I led the resistance in the city of to work at the Flint Neighborhood Improve- Somerville to a campaign to divest in Israel. I HON. JEB HENSARLING ment and Preservation Project, Incorporated, am a friend of Israel and I do not believe this OF TEXAS as a Community Organizer, and a Neighbor- resolution makes Israel safer. It fails to recon- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hood Service Center manager. In 1996 she firm our commitment to peace and to a proc- became the executive director of the city of ess that can bring about peace. I believe this Monday, March 10, 2008 Flint Human Relations Commission. failure renders America less able to be an ef- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, today I In her capacity as the executive director, fective broker for peace in the region. rise to recognize Johnnie Bendy for receiving Cleora has touched the lives of thousands of In addition, I question the desirability and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Min- people. She serves many organizations and is wisdom of reiterating the status of Iran and eola Chamber of Commerce. affiliated with the following: secretary for the Syria as ‘‘state sponsors of terror’’. The De- Johnnie Bendy, named after her father who board of the Fair Winds Girl Scout Council; partment of State has so listed them and, cer- secretary of the board of the Flint Neighbor- tainly, there is ample evidence that both coun- passed away weeks before she was born, is known for the impact she has made in her hood Improvement and Preservation Project, tries have actively and passively provided aid Incorporated; secretary for the board of the and comfort to Hamas and also to Hizbollah. community. Ms. Bendy’s grandmother and el- derly neighbors influenced her love for nature Flint Neighborhood Coalition; a member of the Certainly, the current leaders of Iran have board of directors and chairperson of the publicly stated their vile opinions about Israel and education by taking her fishing, teaching her to identify medicinal herbs, and explaining Michigan Outstate Chapter of the National As- and their determination to eradicate it. No one sociation of Human Rights Workers; member can deny these facts. Nonetheless, I have al- the intricacies of nature. Being raised by a sin- gle mother in the 1930s inevitably led to dif- of the board and mediator with the Community ways been of the opinion that finding a way to Resolution Center; Member of the Advisory peace is more important than name calling— ficult times, and Ms. Bendy recalls going hun- gry for days. Board of YouthBuild; the Mayor’s Representa- even if the names seem to be well-deserved. tive on the Emergency Food and Shelter Pro- After attending grade school in Mineola, Ms. I believe that those who are truly committed to gram Local Board and Allocations Committee; Bendy worked to pay her way through school finding a peaceful solution—two democratic a member of National Association for the Ad- states, recognized by other nations and coex- at Texas College. After graduating, Ms. Bendy vancement of Colored People; a member of isting in peace—must not succumb to the taught at McFarland School until 1964 when Flint Rotary; the chairperson of the Sponsor- temptation of name-calling. We cannot let ter- she began her career as a librarian at Mineola ship Committee for the National Multicultural rorists shape our agenda. We must remain de- Middle School, a post she held for 38 years. Diversity Institute; co-chairperson of the Com- termined to pursue peace. In addition to teaching, Ms. Bendy devoted munity Response Committee with the Michi- I would ask anyone whether they are more her time volunteering and serving on the city gan Alliance Against Hate Crimes; a member or less likely to open their ears so they can planning and zoning commission, the Kind- of the Hurley Medical Center Bioethics Com- hear their opponent if that opponent constantly ness Cottage, the Mineola Chamber of Com- mittee; a member of the M.L. King, Jr. Annual calls them names. I would ask anyone wheth- merce, the Community Chest, United Way, the Tribute Planning Committee; a member of the er they are more or less likely to believe that East Texas Council of Government, and is a Genesee County Committee for Community someone who calls them names can truly un- former president of Friends of the Library. Ms. Peace; a member of Community Challenge derstand their concerns. We all suffer from the Bendy has been recognized both locally and Visual Change Group; a member of the city of same human weakness that causes us to lash nationally as a Distinguished Teacher, Volun- Flint Threat Assessment Team; the coordi- out at those who attack us. This is a natural teer of the Year, and 1998 Woman of the nator of the city of Flint Employee Combined and understandable emotional reaction. How- Year. Charitable Campaign; a member of the United ever, it is one that we must resist, especially In 2007, Mineola Mayor Pete Smith dedi- Way of Genesee County Strengthening Fami- when engaging in what should be seen as de- cated a historical marker to Ms. Bendy in the lies System of Care; a member of the New Im- liberative and thoughtful endeavors such as Mineola Nature Preserve on the Sabine River migrant Services Coalition of MidMichigan; a Congressional resolutions. that now marks a trail leading to the Inter- member of the Kwanzaa Committee; the sec- That said, I believe every observer agrees national & Great Northern Rail Road where retary for Unification for Urban Equality; a that Egypt and Syria must be active partici- she spent her childhood playing outdoors. member of the Donald Riegle Annual Service pants in resolving this conflict. Many might In the midst of all this activity, Ms. Bendy Award Event Committee; a member of the agree that Iran must participate as well—or at sang in her church choir and devoted time to Community Outreach for Family and Youth least acquiesce. How then does it encourage organizing and serving on various church Steering Committee; a member of the McCree them to do so when the Congress states or committees. Special Groups Committee; the African Amer- implies that they are to blame for the problems ican Heritage Collaborative Committee; the in the region? This question seems particularly Ms. Bendy’s perseverance and selfless atti- Youth Violence Prevention Coalition; and the relevant because the resolution, a condemna- tude in the face of cumbersome obstacles city of Flint Emergency Evacuation Committee. tion of Hamas rocket attacks and an expres- qualifies her to receive this lifetime achieve- Cleora is married to Percy Magee. She has sion of solidarity with the people of Israel does ment award. Her work helped Mineola become four children and three stepchildren. She re- not require us to condemn other regional pow- a better place to live, work, raise a family, and ceived her bachelor’s degree from Central ers. There is no need to ‘‘poke our finger in realize the American dream. Michigan University in Community Develop- the eye’’ of governments able to thwart or ad- Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Fifth Dis- ment. Cleora attends True Gospel Missionary vance a peaceful solution. trict of Texas, I am honored to recognize Baptist Church where she serves as dea- I would point out that the Congress has Johnnie Bendy for earning the Lifetime coness. taken this approach for years. We have Achievement Award and for sharing her pas- Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Rep- passed numerous resolutions—too many, in sions to inspire those around her. resentatives to join me in congratulating

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.029 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E343 Cleora Magee on her career of service to the ensure quality education on the Monterey Pe- dedication to inspiring cancer patients and sur- people of Flint, Michigan. The community is ninsula, and is dedicated to sustainability vivors and for courageously fighting her own losing a great advocate and I wish her the through the local greening of businesses. battle against colorectal cancer. best as she enjoys her well deserved retire- Madam Speaker, I salute 100 years of effort In 1998, after receiving a bleak diagnosis ment. by the members, volunteers, committee mem- that she had advanced metastatic colorectal f bers, board members, community partners, and staff of the Monterey Peninsula Chamber cancer, Mrs. Lindley reached out to fellow pa- IN HONOR OF THE MONTEREY PE- of Commerce, whose dedication has made tients in an attempt to gain emotional and NINSULA CHAMBER OF COM- this organization a vital and integral part of our medical support. Nine years later, thousands MERCE community. are looking to Mrs. Lindley for inspiration. In f addition to being involved in eight different as- sociations, Mrs. Lindley is a co-founder and HON. SAM FARR CONGRATULATING EWING TIGERS OF CALIFORNIA GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM president of Yttrium–90 Microspheres Edu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cation and Support, and serves on the Monday, March 10, 2008 HON. ADRIAN SMITH Colorectal Cancer Coalition steering com- mittee for Cover Your Butt. Mrs. Lindley also Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to OF NEBRASKA celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Mon- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES works with the American Cancer Society as the online chair for Van Zandt County Relay terey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce. The Monday, March 10, 2008 for Life, the ACT District 5 chair, a Cancer Ac- Monterey Chamber of Commerce was created Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Speaker, I in 1908 from a loosely organized merchants’ tion Network member, and a Cancer Support rise today to commend the Ewing Tigers girls Network member. association. In 1949, the name was changed basketball team for winning the 2008 Ne- to reflect its expansion across the entire pe- braska State Girls Basketball Class D–2 Through her own experience, Mrs. Lindley ninsula including the sister cities of Carmel, Championship by the score of 45–44 last learned the importance of support groups for Pacific Grove, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Sea- week, just barely edging the Pleasanton Bull- both patients suffering with cancer and their side, and Sand City as well as the neighboring dogs. families. But rather than focusing on herself, unincorporated areas of Big Sur, Carmel Val- The returning champs from 2007—who went Mrs. Lindley organized survivor advocacy to ley, Carmel Highlands and Pebble Beach. 0–19 just three years ago—found their salva- support cancer patients. Today, a chamber is more than a non-profit tion on the foul line, making three of four free organization; it is a business, and its product throws with just 23 seconds to go in the game. With a desire to bring hope to others, Mrs. is its members. As the largest chamber of A coach I know once said that if you make Lindley took her personal story to the national commerce in the tri-county area, it provides your free throws, you win the game. Well, the stage and courageously shared it with maga- leadership on issues, programs and business girls from Ewing certainly proved him right. zines, radio and television hosts. During her development that benefit both the community The players showed grit and determination appearance on the TODAY Show, Katie and their member businesses. during their championship game, but also Couric referred to her as a ‘‘Medical Match- Now 1,000 members strong, the chamber’s dedication, teamwork and responsibility during maker’’ for promoting the ‘‘buddy system’’ commitment to serving the business interests the regular season to get them to the final while fighting this disease. of the entire peninsula strengthens economic game. They should be proud of their accom- growth, promotes the wonders of Monterey plishments, as I’m sure their entire community Today, I have the privilege of meeting with County, and serves the needs of our many is of them. Mrs. Lindley. However, this is not Mrs. visitors annually from around the world. I hope the girls and their coaches are as Lindley’s first trip to Washington, DC. Desiring In answer to the question, ‘‘What has the proud of themselves as we are of them. They to take a proactive approach, Mrs. Lindley has Chamber done for me lately?’’ Board chair deserve a well earned break, and I look for- spent much time with lawmakers, both back Terry Low and president and CEO Astrid ward to following their season next year. home and in Washington, to petition Congress Coleman offer these programs and goals: pro- f for their help in the fight against cancer. moting its members by making each one HONORING SUZANNE LINDLEY FOR Cancer is a devastating disease that has aware of local products and services and cre- HER DEDICATION TO HELPING touched many lives. As a former volunteer and ating events to showcase the members; offer- OTHERS FIGHT CANCER board member of the American Cancer Soci- ing educational programs, coaching services ety of Dallas, I have seen how cancer impacts and forums to help small business owners a family. As a husband and father, I share a succeed; and presenting a ‘‘voice for busi- HON. JEB HENSARLING OF TEXAS deep commitment to the fight against cancer. ness’’ to legal and legislative authorities about IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES issues affecting peninsula business and the Madam Speaker, on behalf of the Fifth Dis- community. Recognizing the need for a prop- Monday, March 10, 2008 trict of Texas, I am honored to recognize Su- erly prepared workforce, the chamber mobi- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, today I zanne Lindley for her selfless spirit in the face lizes business and community resources to rise to recognize Suzanne Lindley for her of a consuming disease.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10MR8.031 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS E344 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks March 10, 2008 SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Office Building’’, H.R. 4342, to des- Aging Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, ignate the facility of the United States To hold hearings relative to doctors and Postal Service located at 824 Manatee prescription drug information and re- agreed to by the Senate on February 4, Avenue West in Bradenton, Florida, as views. 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- the ‘‘ Post Office Building’’, SD–562 tem for a computerized schedule of all S. 2725, to designate the facility of the 1:30 p.m. meetings and hearings of Senate com- United States Postal Service located at Commerce, Science, and Transportation mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- 6892 Main Street in Gloucester, Vir- Interstate Commerce, Trade, and Tourism tees, and committees of conference. ginia, as the ‘‘Congresswoman Jo Ann Subcommittee This title requires all such committees S. Davis Post Office’’, H.R. 3720, to des- To hold hearings to examine the gross to notify the Office of the Senate Daily ignate the facility of the United States domestic product as a measurement of Digest—designated by the Rules Com- Postal Service located at 424 Clay Ave- national strength. SR–253 nue in Waco, Texas, as the ‘‘Army PFC mittee—of the time, place, and purpose 2 p.m. Juan Alonso Covarrubias Post Office of the meetings, when scheduled, and Judiciary Building’’, H.R. 3988, to designate the any cancellations or changes in the To hold hearings to examine Generation facility of the United States Postal meetings as they occur. Rx, focusing on the abuse of prescrip- Service located at 3701 Altamesa Boule- As an additional procedure along tion and over-the-counter drugs. with the computerization of this infor- vard in Fort Worth, Texas, as the SD–226 mation, the Office of the Senate Daily ‘‘Master Sergeant Kenneth N. Mack Armed Services Post Office Building’’, H.R. 4211, to des- SeaPower Subcommittee Digest will prepare this information for ignate the facility of the United States printing in the Extensions of Remarks To hold hearings to examine the defense Postal Service located at 725 Roanoke authorization request for fiscal year section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD Avenue in Roanoke Rapids, North 2009, for the strategic lift programs, on Monday and Wednesday of each Carolina, as the ‘‘Judge Richard B. and the future years defense program. week. Allsbrook Post Office’’, H.R. 4240, to SR–222 Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, designate the facility of the United 2:15 p.m. March 11, 2008, may be found in the States Postal Service located at 10799 Energy and Natural Resources Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. West Alameda Avenue in Lakewood, To hold hearings to examine hardrock Colorado, as the ‘‘Felix Sparks Post Of- MEETINGS SCHEDULED mining, focusing on issues relating to fice Building’’, S. 2622, to designate the abandoned mine lands and uranium MARCH 12 facility of the United States Postal mining. 9:30 a.m. Service located at 11001 Dunklin Road SD–366 Armed Services in St. Louis, Missouri, as the ‘‘William 2:30 p.m. Readiness and Management Support Sub- ‘Bill’ Clay Post Office’’, S. 2626 and Foreign Relations committee H.R. 5400, bills to designate the facility East Asian and Pacific Affairs Sub- To receive a briefing on the current read- of the United States Postal Service lo- committee iness of the armed forces of the United cated at 160 East Washington Street in To hold hearings to examine the United States. Chagrin Falls, Ohio, as the ‘‘Sergeant States and Vietnam, focusing on the SH–219 Michael M. Kashkoush Post Office bilateral relationship. 10 a.m. Building’’, H.R. 3468, to designate the SD–419 Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs facility of the United States Postal Armed Services To hold hearings to examine the Presi- Service located at 1704 Weeksville Road Emerging Threats and Capabilities Sub- dent’s proposed budget request for fis- in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, as committee cal year 2009 for the Department of the ‘‘Dr. Clifford Bell Jones, Sr. Post To hold hearings to examine tech- Housing and Urban Development and Office’’, H.R. 3532, to designate the fa- nologies to combat weapons of mass de- conduct oversight. cility of the United States Postal Serv- struction. SD–538 ice located at 5815 McLeod Street in SD–106 Finance Lula, Georgia, as the ‘‘Private Homeland Security and Governmental Af- To hold hearings to examine alternatives Johnathon Millican Lula Post Office’’, fairs to the current federal estate tax sys- H.R. 4203, to designate the facility of Federal Financial Management, Govern- tem. the United States Postal Service lo- ment Information, Federal Services, SD–215 cated at 3035 Stone Mountain Street in and International Security Sub- committee Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Lithonia, Georgia, as the ‘‘Specialist To hold hearings to examine agencies in fairs Jamaal RaShard Addison Post Office peril, focusing on protecting federal in- Business meeting to consider H.R. 3247, Building’’, H.R. 5135, to designate the formation technology and secure sen- to improve the provision of disaster as- facility of the United States Postal sitive information. sistance for Hurricanes Katrina and Service located at 201 West Greenway SD–342 Rita, H.R. 3179, to amend title 40, Street in Derby, Kansas, as the ‘‘Ser- United States Code, to authorize the Armed Services geant Jamie O. Maugans Post Office Readiness and Management Support Sub- use of Federal supply schedules for the Building’’, and the nomination of Har- acquisition of law enforcement, secu- committee vey E. Johnson, Jr., of Virginia, to be To hold hearings to examine the defense rity, and certain other related items by Deputy Administrator, Federal Emer- State and local governments, S. 2606, authorization request for fiscal year gency Management Agency, Depart- to reauthorize the United States Fire 2009, the future years defense program, ment of Homeland Security. Administration, S. 789, to prevent and military installation, environ- SD–342 abuse of Government credit cards, S. mental, and base closure programs. Rules and Administration 2291, to enhance citizen access to Gov- SR–232A To hold hearings to examine issues rel- ernment information and services by Intelligence establishing plain language as the ative to in-person voter fraud and voter Closed business meeting to consider standard style of Government docu- disenfranchisement. pending calendar business. ments issued to the public, S. 2420, to SR–301 SH–219 encourage the donation of excess food Armed Services 4 p.m. to nonprofit organizations that provide Strategic Forces Subcommittee Appropriations assistance to food-insecure people in To hold hearings to examine strategic Financial Services and General Govern- the United States in contracts entered forces programs in review of the de- ment Subcommittee into by executive agencies for the pro- fense authorization request for fiscal To hold hearings to examine proposed vision, service, or sale of food, S. 2534, year 2009 and the future years defense budget estimates for fiscal year 2009 for to designate the facility of the United program. the federal judiciary. States Postal Service located at 2650 SR–232A SD–138 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street, In- 10:30 a.m. dianapolis, Indiana, as the ‘‘Julia M. Appropriations MARCH 13 Carson Post Office Building’’, H.R. 4210, Defense Subcommittee 9:30 a.m. to designate the facility of the United To hold hearings to examine proposed Armed Services States Postal Service located at 401 budget estimates for fiscal year 2009 for To hold hearings to examine the defense Washington Avenue in Weldon, North the Air Force. authorization request for fiscal year Carolina, as the ‘‘Dock M. Brown Post SD–192 2009 for the United States European

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M10MR8.000 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS March 10, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E345 Command and the United States Afri- to be United States Attorney for the MARCH 14 can Command, and the future years de- Eastern District of Texas. 10 a.m. fense program. SD–226 Homeland Security and Governmental Af- SH–216 Appropriations fairs Foreign Relations Transportation, Housing and Urban Devel- Oversight of Government Management, the Business meeting to consider S. 2731, to opment, and Related Agencies Sub- Federal Workforce, and the District of authorize appropriations for fiscal committee Columbia Subcommittee years 2009 through 2013 to provide as- To hold hearings to examine proposed To hold hearings to examine ways to re- sistance to foreign countries to combat budget estimates for fiscal year 2009 for form the District of Columbia Public HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, the Department of Housing and Urban Schools (DCPS) system. and the nominations of William Ray- Development. SD–342 mond Steiger, of Wisconsin, to be Am- SD–138 APRIL 3 bassador to the Republic of Mozam- 2p.m. bique, and Mark Kimmitt, of Virginia, 10 a.m. Commerce, Science, and Transportation to be an Assistant Secretary of State Commerce, Science, and Transportation To hold a hearing to examine the nomi- To hold hearings to examine inter- for Political-Military Affairs, both of nation of John J. Sullivan, of Mary- national fisheries, focusing on manage- the Department of State. ment and enforcement. S–116, Capitol land, to be Deputy Secretary of Com- SR–253 Energy and Natural Resources merce. Public Lands and Forests Subcommittee SR–253 APRIL 8 To hold hearings to examine old-growth Armed Services forest science, focusing on policy and Readiness and Management Support Sub- 10 a.m. management in the Pacific Northwest committee Commerce, Science, and Transportation region. To hold hearings to examine the defense To hold hearings to examine the Federal SD–366 authorization request for fiscal year Trade Commission reauthorization. 10 a.m. 2009 for the current readiness of the SR–253 Commerce, Science, and Transportation armed forces, and the future years de- 2:30 p.m. Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security fense program. Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee SR–232A To hold an oversight hearing to examine To hold hearings to examine the finan- 2:30 p.m. the digital television transition, focus- ing on consumers, broadcasters, and cial state of the airline industry. Armed Services converter boxes. SR–253 Emerging Threats and Capabilities Sub- SR–253 Appropriations committee Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related To hold hearings to examine the defense APRIL 10 Agencies Subcommittee authorization request for fiscal year 10 a.m. To hold hearings to examine proposed 2009 for the Cooperative Threat Reduc- Commerce, Science, and Transportation budget estimates for fiscal year 2009 for tion Program and the Proliferation Se- To hold hearings to examine phantom the National Oceanic and Atmospheric curity Initiative at the Department of Administration and the National traffic. Defense, and nuclear nonproliferation SR–253 Science Foundation. programs at the National Security Ad- SD–192 ministration, and the future years de- CANCELLATIONS Finance fense program. To hold hearings to examine customs re- SR–222 authorization, focusing on strength- MARCH 12 Commerce, Science, and Transportation ening United States economic interests 10:15 a.m. and security. Fisheries and Coast Guard Subcommittee Foreign Relations SD–215 To hold hearings to examine proposed Business meeting to consider an original Judiciary budget request for fiscal year 2009 for bill, to authorize appropriations for fis- Business meeting to consider S. 2136, to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric cal years 2009 through 2013 to provide address the treatment of primary Administration (NOAA). assistance to foreign countries to com- mortgages in bankruptcy, S. 2133, to SR–253 bat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and ma- authorize bankruptcy courts to take Intelligence laria. certain actions with respect to mort- To hold closed hearings to examine cer- SD–419 gage loans in bankruptcy, S. 2041, to tain intelligence matters. amend the False Claims Act, S. 2533, to SH–219 POSTPONEMENTS enact a safe, fair, and responsible state Commission on Security and Cooperation secrets privilege Act, S. 702, to author- in Europe MARCH 13 ize the Attorney General to award To hold hearings to examine Poland’s 10 a.m. grants to State courts to develop and Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Appropriations implement State courts interpreter B318, Rayburn Building Legislative Branch Subcommittee programs, S. Res. 468, designating April To hold hearings to examine proposed 2008 as ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education budget estimates for fiscal year 2009 for Month’’, and the nominations of the Office of the Architect of the Cap- Catharina Haynes, of Texas, to be itol, the Government Printing Office, United States Circuit Judge for the and the Office of Compliance. Fifth Circuit, and Rebecca A. Gregory, SD–124

VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:10 Mar 11, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M10MR8.000 E10MRPT1 wwoods2 on PRODPC68 with REMARKS Monday, March 10, 2008 Daily Digest Senate year 2009 and including the appropriate budgetary Chamber Action levels for fiscal years 2008 and 2010 through 2013. Routine Proceedings, pages S1785–S1823 Pages S1791–S1814 Measures Introduced: Three bills and two resolu- A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- tions were introduced, as follows: S. 2737–2739, and viding for further consideration of the resolution at S. Res. 477–478. Page S1818 approximately 11 a.m., on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, for debate only and that all time during any Measures Reported: morning business period count against the time al- S. 1638, to adjust the salaries of Federal justices and judges, with an amendment in the nature of a lotted for the resolution; provided further, that the recess time be charged equally against each side. substitute. Page S1818 Page S1814 Measures Passed: Messages from the House: Page S1816 United States and the Kingdom of Thailand: Measures Placed on the Calendar: Pages S1816, Committee on Foreign Relations was discharged S1875 from further consideration of S. Con. Res. 66, com- memorating the 175th anniversary of the commence- Measures Read the First Time: Pages S1816, ment of the special relationship between the United S1822–23 States and the Kingdom of Thailand, and the resolu- Executive Communications: Pages S1816–17 tion was then agreed to. Page S1822 Additional Cosponsors: Pages S1818–19 Crimes in Guatemala: Committee on Foreign Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Relations was discharged from further consideration Pages S1819–21 of S. Res. 178, expressing the sympathy of the Sen- ate to the families of women and girls murdered in Additional Statements: Pages S1815–18 Guatemala, and encouraging the United States to Amendments Submitted: Pages S1821–22 work with Guatemala to bring an end to these Privileges of the Floor: Page S1822 crimes, and the resolution was then agreed to, after agreeing to the following amendments proposed Adjournment: Senate convened at 2 p.m. and ad- journed at 7:19 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, thereto: Page S1823 Reid (for Bingaman) Amendment No. 4149, to March 11, 2008. (For Senate’s program, see the re- marks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on amend the resolution. Page S1823 Reid (for Bingaman) Amendment No. 4150, to page S1823.) amend the preamble. Page S1823 Measures Considered: Committee Meetings Budget Resolution: Senate began consideration of (Committees not listed did not meet) S. Con. Res. 70, setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal No committee meetings were held.

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 04:48 Jun 26, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 J:\CRONLINE\2008BA~2\2008NE~2\D10MR8.REC D10MR8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE D258 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST March 10, 2008 House of Representatives Expressing support for the designation and goals Chamber Action of ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education Month’’: Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 14 pub- H. Res. 537, amended, to express support for the lic bills, H.R. 5561–5574; and 3 resolutions, H. designation and goals of ‘‘National 9–1–1 Education Con. Res. 313; and H. Res. 1032–1033 were intro- Month’’, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 381 yeas with duced. Pages H1444–45 none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 108; Additional Cosponsors: Pages H1445–46 Pages H1421–23, H1430 Reports Filed: Reports were filed on March 6, 2008 E. Arthur Gray Post Office Building Designa- as follows: tion Act: H.R. 3196, to designate the facility of the H.R. 2176, to provide for and approve the settle- United States Postal Service located at 20 Sussex ment of certain land claims of the Bay Mills Indian Street in Port Jervis, New York, as the ‘‘E. Arthur Community, with an amendment (H. Rept. Gray Post Office Building’’, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay 110–541, Pt. 1) and vote of 382 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. H.R. 4115, to provide for and approve the settle- 109; and Pages H1423–24, H1430–31 ment of certain land claims of the Sault Ste. Marie Steve W. Allee Carrier Annex Designation Act: Tribe of Chippewa Indians, with an amendment (H. H.R. 4166, to designate the facility of the United Rept. 110–542, Pt. 1). States Postal Service located at 701 East Copeland A report was filed on March 7, 2008 as follows: Drive in Lebanon, Missouri, as the ‘‘Steve W. Allee H. Con. Res. 312, revising the congressional Carrier Annex’’, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 382 budget for the United States Government for fiscal yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 110. year 2008, establishing the congressional budget for Pages H1424–25, H1431–32 the United States Government for fiscal year 2009, Recess: The House recessed at 3:11 p.m. and recon- and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fis- vened at 6:34 p.m. Pages H1429–30 cal years 2010 through 2013 (H. Rept. 110–543). Suspensions—Proceedings Postponed: The House Reports were filed today as follows: debated the following measures under suspension of H. Res. 936, honoring the 200th anniversary of the rules. Further proceedings were postponed: the Gallatin Report on Roads and Canals, cele- brating the national unity the Gallatin Report en- Congratulating Iowa State University of Science gendered, and recognizing the vast contributions and Technology for 150 years of leadership and that national planning efforts have provided to the service to the United States and the world as United States, with amendments (H. Rept. Iowa’s land-grant university: H. Res. 924, amend- 110–544); ed, to congratulate Iowa State University of Science H.R. 5492, to authorize the Board of Regents of and Technology for 150 years of leadership and serv- the Smithsonian Institution to construct a green- ice to the United States and the world as Iowa’s house facility at its museum support facility in land-grant university; Pages H1425–27 Suitland, Maryland (H. Rept. 110–545); Congratulating the University of Kansas (‘‘KU’’) H.R. 5501, to authorize appropriations for fiscal football team for winning the 2008 FedEx Orange years 2009 through 2013 to provide assistance to Bowl and having the most successful year in pro- foreign countries to combat HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, gram history: H. Res. 948, amended, to congratu- and malaria (H. Rept. 110–546, Pt. 1); and late the University of Kansas (’’KU’’) football team H. Res. 1031, providing for the adoption of the for winning the 2008 FedEx Orange Bowl and hav- resolution (H. Res. 895) establishing within the ing the most successful year in program history; and House of Representatives an Office of Congressional Pages H1427–28 Ethics (H. Rept. 110–547). Pages H1443, H1444 Congratulating the women’s water polo team of Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she the University of California, Los Angeles, for win- appointed Representative Hirono to act as Speaker ning the 2007 NCAA Division I Women’s Water pro tempore for today. Page H1419 Polo National Championship, and congratulating UCLA on its 100th NCAA sports national title, Recess: The House recessed at 12:33 p.m. and re- making it the most accomplished athletic program convened at 2 p.m. Page H1419 in NCAA history: H. Res. 493, amended, to con- Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules gratulate the women’s water polo team of the Uni- and pass the following measures: versity of California, Los Angeles, for winning the

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Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: to hold an oversight hear- ministration’s Budget Impacts Children and Families, 10 ing to examine Veterans Affairs and the Department of a.m., 2175 Rayburn. Defense cooperation and collaboration, focusing on caring Committee on Energy and Commerce, to continue mark up for families of wounded warriors, 9:30 a.m., SR–418. of H.R. 1108, Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to Control Act, and to mark up the following bills: H.R. examine certain intelligence matters, 2:30 p.m., SH–219. 1198, Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act of 2007; H.R. 2464, Wakefield Act; H.R. 1237, Cytology House Proficiency Improvement Act of 2007; H.R. 3701, Keep- Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Agri- ing Seniors Safe From Falls Act of 2007; H.R. 2063, culture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administra- Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis, Management Act of 2007; tion, and Related Agencies, on Research, Education and H.R. 3825, Newborn Screening Saves Lives Act of 2007; Economic budget request, 10 a.m., 2362–A Rayburn. and H.R. 1418, Reauthorization of the Traumatic Brain Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Re- Injury Act, 2 p.m., 2123 Rayburn. lated Agencies, on OJP/COPS/OVW, 10 a.m., H–309 Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Inter- Capitol, and on Secretary of Commerce, 2 p.m., 2359 net, hearing entitled ‘‘The Role of Private Equity in the Rayburn. Communications Marketplace, 9:30 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Defense, on Air Force Posture, 10 Committee on Financial Services, hearing on the oversight a.m., H–140 Capitol. of the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, on including the Department’s budget request for fiscal year DOE—Energy and Conservation, Fossil Energy, Elec- 2009 and oversight of emergency spending, 10 a.m., tricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, 10 a.m., 2362–B 2128 Rayburn. Rayburn. Subcommittee on International Monetary Policy, Trade Subcommittee on Financial Services, and General Gov- and Technology, hearing on H.R. 5512, Coin Moderniza- ernment, on Consumer Product Safety Commission, 10 tion and Taxpayer Savings Act of 2008, 2:30 p.m., 2128 a.m., 2220 Rayburn. Rayburn. Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Citizenship Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Middle and Immigration Services: Strengthening legal immigra- East, and South Asia, and the Subcommittee on Organi- tion and improving refugee processing, 10 a.m., 2358–A zations, Human Rights and Oversight, joint hearing on Rayburn, and on Homeland Security Grants: Supporting Neglected Responsibilities: the U.S. Response to the Iraqi a National Preparedness and Response System, 2 p.m., Refugee Crisis, 2 p.m., 210 Cannon. 2362–B Rayburn. Committee on the Judiciary, Task Force on Competition Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Policy and Antitrust Laws, hearing on Net Neutrality Agencies, on National Endowment for the Humanities, 4 and Free Speech on the Internet, 2 p.m., 2141 Rayburn. p.m., B–308 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, hearing on Deferred Prosecution: Should Corporate Settle- Education and Related Agencies, on Implications of a ment Agreements Be Without Guidelines? 10:30 a.m., Weakening Economy for Training and Employment Serv- 2141 Rayburn. ices, 10 a.m., 2358–C Rayburn. Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Se- Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans’ Af- curity, hearing on Department of Homeland Security Law fairs and Related Agencies, on Navy Budget, 1:30 p.m., H–143 Capitol. Enforcement Operations, 10 a.m., 2237 Rayburn. Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Re- Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Energy lated Programs, on HIV/AIDS and Global Health Pro- and Resources, oversight hearing on Getting Royalties grams, 9:30 a.m., 2359 Rayburn. Right: Recent Recommendations for Improving the Fed- Committee on Armed Services, Subcommittee on Air and eral Oil and Gas Royalty System, 10 a.m., 1334 Long- Land Forces and the Subcommittee on Seapower and Ex- worth. peditionary Forces, joint hearing on Department of the Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Oceans, hear- Navy and Air Force Tactical Aviation Programs, 10 a.m., ing on the following measures: H.R. 2964, Captive Pri- 2118 Rayburn. mate Safety Act; and H.R. 5534, Bear Protection Act of Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, hearing 2008, 10 a.m., 1324 Longworth. on the Impact of the Administration’s signing statement Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Sub- on the Department of Defense’s implementation of the committee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service and the Fiscal Year 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, 12 District of Columbia, hearing on Advancements and Con- p.m., 2212 Rayburn. tinual Challenges in the Parole, Supervised Release and Subcommittee on Readiness, hearing on Inherently Revocation of D.C. Code Offenders, 2 p.m., 2154 Ray- Governmental—What is the Proper Role of Government? burn. 2 p.m., 2118 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Government Management, Organiza- Committee on Education and Labor, Subcommittee on tion and Procurement, to mark up the following bills: Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education, H.R. 752, Federal Electronic Equipment Donation Act of hearing on After School Programs: How the Bush Ad-

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2007; H.R. 3033, Contractors and Federal Spending Ac- of Nanotechnology Initiative Research Outcomes for countability Act of 2007; H.R. 3928, Government Con- Commercial and Public Benefit, 10 a.m., 2318 Rayburn. tractor Accountability Act of 2007; and H.R. 4881, Con- Subcommittee on Technology and Innovation, hearing tracting and Tax Accountability Act of 2007, 2 p.m., on the NIST’s Fiscal year 2009 Budget Request: What 2247 Rayburn. Are the Right Technology Investments to Promote U.S. Subcommittee on Information Policy, Census and Na- Innovation and Competitiveness, 2 p.m., 2318 Rayburn. tional Archives, hearing on Privacy: The Use of Commer- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Sub- cial Information Resellers by Federal Agencies, 2 p.m., committee on Water Resources and Environment, hearing 2203 Rayburn. on Comprehensive Watershed Management and Planning: Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Af- Drought-related Issues in the Southeastern United States, fairs, hearing on National Security and Latin America: 10 a.m., 2167 Rayburn. Challenges and Opportunities on Energy Cooperation, 10 Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Subcommittee on Health, a.m., 2154 Rayburn. hearing on Substance Abuse/Co-morbid Disorders: Com- Committee on Rules, to consider a resolution Revising the prehensive Solutions to a Complex Problem, 10 a.m., 334 congressional budget for the United States Government Cannon. for fiscal year 2008 , establishing the congressional budg- Committee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee on Health, et for the United States Government for fiscal year 2009, hearing on Medicare Payment Advisory Commission’s an- and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal nual report on Medicare payment policies, 10 a.m., 1100 years 2010 through 2013, 3:30 p.m., H–313 Capitol. Longworth. Committee on Science and Technology, Subcommittee on Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, executive, briefing Research and Science Education, hearing on the Transfer on Advanced R&D Budget, 10 a.m., H–405 Capitol.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE national Commission of the International Tracing Service (ITS) 10 a.m., Tuesday, March 11 on ratifying the May 2006 Agreement to amend the 1955 Bonn Accords granting open access to vast Holocaust and other Senate Chamber World War II related archives located in Bad Arolsen, Ger- many; (4) H. Con. Res. 290—Commemorating the 175th anni- Program for Tuesday: After the transaction of any morning versary of the special relationship between the United States business (not to extend beyond 60 minutes), Senate will con- and the Kingdom of Thailand; (5) H. Res. 1024—Recognizing tinue consideration of S. Con. Res. 70, Budget Resolution, for debate only. the 187th anniversary of the independence of Greece and cele- (Senate will recess from 12:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. for their re- brating Greek and American Democracy; (6) H. Res. 945— spective party conferences.) Raising awareness and promoting education on the criminal justice system by establishing March 2008 as ‘‘National Crimi- nal Justice Month’’; (7) H.R. 4056—The Federal Law Enforce- Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ment Officers Congressional Badge of Bravery Act of 2008; (8) H.R. 1312—Arts Require Timely Service (ARTS) Act; (9) 10:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 11 H.R. 3361—To make technical corrections related to the Pen- sion Protection Act of 2006; (10) H.R. 5563—Generations In- House Chamber vigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act; (11) S. Program for Tuesday: 2733—To temporarily extend the programs under the Higher Consideration of the following suspensions: (1) H.R. 5492— Education Act of 1965; and (12) H. Res. 953—Expressing the To authorize the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institu- sense of the House of Representatives that all Americans should tion to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support participate in a moment of silence to reflect upon the service facility in Suitland, Maryland; (2) H. Res. 936—Honoring the and sacrifice of members of the United States Armed Forces 200th anniversary of the Gallatin Report on Roads and Canals, both at home and abroad, and their families. Vote on the Presi- celebrating the national unity the Gallatin Report engendered, dent’s Veto of H.R. 2082—The Intelligence Authorization Act and recognizing the vast contributions that national planning of 2008. Consideration of H. Res. 895—Establishing within efforts have provided to the United States; (3) H. Res. 854— the House of Representatives an Office of Congressional Ethics Expressing gratitude to all of the member states of the Inter- (Subject to a Rule).

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Farr, Sam, Calif., E343 Reynolds, Thomas M., N.Y., E336 Garrett, Scott, N.J., E338, E341 Sessions, Pete, Tex., E336 Alexander, Rodney, La., E335, E339 Hensarling, Jeb, Tex., E340, E342, E343 Skelton, Ike, Mo., E336 Blackburn, Marsha, Tenn., E337 Johnson, Timothy V., Ill., E341 Smith, Adrian, Nebr., E340, E341, E343 Capuano, Michael E., Mass., E341 Kanjorski, Paul E., Pa., E335 Solis, Hilda L., Calif., E335, E336, E337, E339 Clarke, Yvette D., N.Y., E340 Kildee, Dale E., Mich., E342 Costa, Jim, Calif., E340 Lee, Barbara, Calif., E336 Van Hollen, Chris, Md., E341 Courtney, Joe, Conn., E337 McCotter, Thaddeus G., Mich., E339 Westmoreland, Lynn A., Mac, Ga., E338 Davis, Tom, Va., E335, E336, E337, E338, E339 Poe, Ted, Tex., E340 Woolsey, Lynn C., Calif., E335, E338

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