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

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

Vol. 154 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2008 No. 100 House of Representatives The House met at 12:30 and was Currently, about 3,000 people in Just last month, they won multiple called to order by the Speaker pro tem- North Carolina are awaiting life-saving awards at the SMARTT Challenge com- pore (Mr. LARSEN of Washington). organ transplants. The Clemmons Ro- petition in Raleigh. The SMARTT elec- f tary’s Billboards on Wheels program is tric vehicle challenge, which draws going to improve the lives of these peo- hundreds of students from across the DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO ple in need of an organ transplant in southeast, stands for Students Making TEMPORE North Carolina. In fact, this brilliant Advancements in Renewable Transpor- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- marketing idea is beginning to garner tation Technology. fore the House the following commu- some national attention from other ro- The students and teachers at West nication from the Speaker: tary clubs that would like to replicate Wilkes High School are on the cutting WASHINGTON, DC, this program in States other than edge of hands-on instruction and learn- June 17, 2008. North Carolina. ing, and I congratulate them for main- I hereby appoint the Honorable RICK The trend-setting people of the ro- taining one of the best high school LARSEN to act as Speaker pro tempore on tary club are model citizens who are electric vehicle programs in the Na- this day. working to make our world a healthier tion. I hope they’ll keep up the good NANCY PELOSI, and more livable place. I hope that work. Speaker of the House of Representatives. their good deeds inspire others to take This leads me into my next com- f up this great outreach idea and to help ments, Mr. Speaker. The Democrats MORNING-HOUR DEBATE match donors with those in need. are inventing false arguments again. Mr. Speaker, today, I also want to ‘‘Use it or lose it’’ is already the law. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- call special attention to the innovation For Federal onshore competitive oil ant to the order of the House of Janu- and hard work of the students involved and gas leases, an oil company must ary 4, 2007, the Chair will now recog- in West Wilkes High School’s electric have a producing well by 10 years. This nize Members from lists submitted by vehicle program. comes from section 17(e) of the Mineral the majority and minority leaders for Under the guidance and direction of Leasing Act, (source: 30 U.S.C. 226(e)). morning-hour debate. Advisor Chris Tolbert, students in the Prior to 1992, the lease term was 5 f West Wilkes electric vehicle program years. The Energy Policy Act of 1992, have completely rebuilt two vehicles— under a Democrat House, modified it to CLEMMONS ROTARY CLUB CRE- a Ford pickup and a Mazda Miata—into 10 years. For Federal offshore oil and ATES INNOVATIVE PUBLIC OUT- fully functional electric cars. This gas leases, an oil company must REACH PROGRAM award-winning electric vehicle pro- produce energy between 5 and 10 years. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gram is exactly the sort of program we This is from the Outer Continental Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from need to help teach young people the Shelf Lands Act. North Carolina (Ms. FOXX) for 5 min- skills and technology of the future. So House Democrats do not even utes. I applaud Mr. Tolbert and the stu- know what is existing law. What Demo- Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today dents at West Wilkes for their forward- crats would have you believe is that a to praise the critical community serv- thinking mindset. These students have lease is a license to produce oil and ice being performed by the Rotary Club custom-built electric cars, cars with- gas. It is not. A lease is only the start of Clemmons, North Carolina. out gas engines, from the ground up. of a process involving several steps the The Clemmons Rotary Club launched This is a herculean accomplishment government requires an oil company to a unique initiative this year to boost with more than 3,000 hours of hard take before it may get permission to awareness of organ and tissue donor work going into the design and build- drill. programs in North Carolina. They have ing of the Mazda Miata alone. Democrats are effectively arguing spruced up the sides of about a dozen Fortunately, their hard work is pay- that we should pull leases away from semi-truck trailers with huge public ing dividends. Not only are they invest- oil companies before they even receive service ads, calling attention to the ing in a cleaner environment and in an permission to drill. That’s like saying constant need for organ donors in economy that is less dependent on gas we should flunk a first grader on his North Carolina. Each truck highlights and oil, but they have brought home first day of school because he has not organ donor programs in North Caro- many awards and have captured na- yet taken his final exam. lina and directs potential donors to tional attention for their electric car Most of the drilling on Federal leases visit www.DonateLifeNC.org. innovations. has been for natural gas. Natural gas

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 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5414 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 production was up, way up last year, I’ve got a petition here. Don’t worry. curity and prosperity. For Jews in and so was demand. In fact, the indus- This is one board. We’ve got five America, we owe it to our ancestors to try is producing more gas under these boards. We’ve got every district, all 435 protect the Jewish homeland that they leases, but they cannot keep up with Members who can vote in this House. toiled for centuries to achieve. We owe demand because Democrats and their We’ve got a petition, and it says, ‘‘I to it our grandparents and to our great radical environmental allies will not will vote to increase U.S. oil produc- grandparents who never saw the Prom- allow the leasing of new areas. Ninety- tion to lower gas prices for Ameri- ised Land. We owe it to our children seven percent of Federal offshore areas cans.’’ How simple is that? That’s pret- and to our grandchildren, who must al- are not leased. Ninety-four percent of ty simple. ways know a world with a Jewish Federal onshore areas are not leased. So what we’ve done is we’ve got this. homeland. We owe them peace in our Again, I say, Mr. Speaker, the Demo- Congressman PRICE and myself didn’t time. crats are inventing false arguments to bring it out until, really, after every- f keep us from increasing our supply of body had kind of gone home up here RISING GAS PRICES energy in this country. last Thursday, and we’ve already got- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f ten 20 signatories. I’ve got two pens that I’m going to attach to these peti- Chair recognizes the gentleman from LOWER GAS AND ENERGY PRICES tions. Mr. Speaker, I’m going to put Georgia (Mr. PRICE) for 5 minutes. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The them over here by the back door here Mr. PRICE of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Chair recognizes the gentleman from on the minority side, and I’m going to it’s a privilege to come to the well of Georgia (Mr. WESTMORELAND) for 5 invite every Member of Congress who the House and address this body. It’s minutes. believes that they would vote to reduce Tuesday, about 16 minutes to 1 o’clock, and the House is back in session for an- Mr. WESTMORELAND. Mr. Speaker, these prices to come by and sign them. I want to take just a moment, before I Just to give the American people, other week. Today, we are going to be taking up start with any of my energy remarks, Mr. Speaker, a way to look at this, we some interesting resolutions. H.R. 1002 to welcome President Chen, Joy and are going to post, and are going to try expresses support for the designation of Sean Chen here with General Protecht to post in as real a time as we can, on April 2008 as Public Radio Recognition that is opening up a business in my dis- different Web pages who has signed it. trict in Barnesville, Georgia. It’s great Month. We are going to take up House So, if you want to know who has signed Resolution 1029, which congratulates to have them visiting Washington, D.C. so far, you can go to House.gov/West- What I really want to talk to the and recognizes Chi-Chi Rodriguez for moreland, and you can also go to his continued success on and off the people about today, Mr. Speaker, is the GOP.gov/energy. Now, these are two fact that it is time that the American golf course. We are going to rename a Web sites that are going to have posted post office in Cleveland, Ohio. We are people understand where Congress is on by the end of the day who all has providing them with our own resources going to rename another post office in signed. If you, Mr. Speaker, or if any- Rancho Mirage, California, and we are to bring about lower gas prices and body out there might want to know if lower energy prices. going to recognize or have a bill that your Congressman has signed, then you recognizes the historical significance I have had several constituents and can go to that Web site. people e-mailing me and calling me, of Juneteenth Independence Day. We have had all different types of ar- That’s what is on tap for the House of asking me about a number of petitions guments in this House about energy, that were on the Web or that were in Representatives today, Mr. Speaker. and the Democrats had an energy bill What aren’t we going to do? service stations or in Wal-Marts or in that they proposed and actually passed Well, we aren’t going to do what my Home Depots, and they were wanting that President Bush signed into law in constituents in the Sixth District of to know how I felt about drilling on- December of 2007. The Democratic ma- Georgia want us to do and what Ameri- shore, about drilling in deep water and jority passed this as one of their big cans all across this Nation want us to about bringing more refineries on line. issues in January of 2007. do, and that is to deal with the issue of So, as I looked at some of these peti- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gas prices, of rising gas prices. For an- tions—and some of them I saw—one time of the gentleman has expired. other week, we’re not going to deal was on American solutions, and there Mr. WESTMORELAND. With that, with that because the leadership in were others, but the one on American I’ll leave it up to Mr. PRICE, but for this House, the Democrat leadership in solutions had about 600,000 signatories. every Member in this House, the pens this House, will not allow the bills to Six hundred thousand Americans had are here; the petition is here. Let the come to the floor that will increase taken the time to go to that Web site American people know how you feel. American energy for Americans. to sign the petition that said, ‘‘Drill f The average gas price in this Nation now. Drill here. Less price.’’ Less gaso- today, Mr. Speaker, is $4.08 a gallon. In THE STATE OF ISRAEL’S 60TH line price. California, it’s $4.60 a gallon. In Con- ANNIVERSARY So I thought, you know, that’s inter- necticut, it’s $4.38 a gallon. Now, facts esting because we know how these con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The are stubborn things, Mr. Speaker, but stituents feel, but do our constituents Chair recognizes the gentleman from there are some laws of economics that really know, Mr. Speaker, how Mem- New Hampshire (Mr. HODES) for 2 min- are driving all of this. bers of Congress feel? Because we do utes. Part of it, not all of it, is supply and things up here to keep the American Mr. HODES. Mr. Speaker, just last demand, and there are some other facts people from knowing exactly what we month, we celebrated the 60th anniver- that are important for all of us to ap- do think because we make these issues sary of the creation of the State of preciate. The United States expanded as to so many different subject matters Israel. its dependence on foreign members of that we can find excuses to vote for or Last year, I was privileged to take the Organization of Petroleum Export- against most any proposal that is my first trip to the Promised Land. ing Countries—that’s OPEC, Mr. brought to this floor. So what I want to Israel is the birthright for Jews around Speaker—by a full 7 percent in 2007 do is simplify it, simplify it for the the world. As our stanchest ally, Israel alone. That means we increased our de- American people—for our constitu- is the only democracy in the Middle pendence on foreign oil. The United ents—and, Mr. Speaker, for the Mem- East, but to Jews, it is much more. It States is the only developed Nation in bers of Congress. is the homeland, the true community the world that forbids, that forbids, So I came up with a petition for this that my own Jewish ancestors dreamed Mr. Speaker, safe energy production in House of Representatives, and the peti- of when hounded by anti-Semitism, re- its Outer Continental Shelf. That’s tion is simple. The petition says: pression and violence. deep sea exploration. We are the only ‘‘American energy solutions for lower To truly honor Israel on this 60th an- developed Nation in the world to do gas prices. Bring onshore oil on line. niversary, we must seek a true, lasting this. Bring deep water oil on line, and bring peace from committed partners to pro- The U.S. Minerals Management Serv- new refineries on line.’’ vide for Israel’s long-term survival, se- ice estimates that America’s Outer

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5415 Continental Shelf contains nearly 86 year, and this House named the post of- Mr. BOSWELL led the Pledge of Alle- billion barrels of oil, 86 billion barrels fice on South Third Street, the main giance as follows: of oil. How much is that, Mr. Speaker? post office in Memphis, in his memory. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the It’s enough oil to replace OPEC im- He was a city councilman, an out- United States of America, and to the Repub- ports for 50 years. We can gain that in standing community leader, a clergy- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, an environmentally sensitive and man of renown, and my friend. He has indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. sound way without threatening the en- three sons—two musicians, one of f vironment. whom is Kirk Whalum, as many of you IOWANS UNITED IN TIME OF On our side of the aisle, for the Re- know from his saxophone playing—and TROUBLE publicans, when those votes have come then his son, Pastor Kenneth Whalum, up in the House, 81 percent of us have Jr., who serves on the Memphis City (Mr. BOSWELL asked and was given supported deep sea exploration for School Board and who is a political and permission to address the House for 1 American energy for Americans. As for ecumenical leader in the City of Mem- minute and to revise and extend his re- the other side of the aisle, when those phis as well. marks.) votes have come up, 83 percent of I welcome Olivet Baptist Church to Mr. BOSWELL. Mr. Speaker, today I House Democrats have opposed this. the House of Representatives, and I come to share with you that Iowa is in So, as my friend Mr. WESTMORELAND give praise to them for helping me get a lot of trouble. We have had extensive has said, we are going to break it down here. floods, the worst I have ever seen, in pretty simply. Who wants to bring on- our part of the country, and it is dev- shore oil on line for Americans? Who f astating. Since I saw you last, I have wants to bring deep water oil on line RECESS spent hours and hours with the United for Americans? Who wants to increase The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Way, Red Cross, civic leaders, both refining capacity in America? Amer- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair city, county, State, emergency oper- ican energy for Americans, which declares the House in recess until 2 ations centers in and out, and so on, Members of this body want to do that? p.m. today. and it is really tough. We’ve got a petition. We’ve got the Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 50 We have experienced that before in pens at the ready, Mr. Speaker. All it minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- this Nation. In our Pledge we say ‘‘in- takes is for Members to step up and to cess until 2 p.m. divisible,’’ and we are. This country find their line and sign, and if they will stand behind us, we know that, and need help finding their line, we’ll be f we look forward to that possibility. glad to help them. It’s important. It’s b 1400 I fly an old airplane, and so I spent important that the American people Saturday afternoon with one of my AFTER RECESS know that this body, the House of Rep- staff flying over the various cities, and resentatives, appreciates the chal- The recess having expired, the House a lot of them were really tough. When lenges that they’re having right now at was called to order by the Speaker pro I flew down over Cedar Rapids low level the gas pump, with filling up their cars tempore (Mr. LARSEN of Washington) and looked down upon the homes and and their vehicles, the difficulty of the at 2 p.m. businesses, at the devastation, the truckers across this Nation in deliv- f roads out, bridges, et cetera; over Iowa ering the goods and services. City, the university, with a lot of PRAYER It’s imperative that this House of flooded buildings and so on; and then Representatives addresses the issue of The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. over to Ottumwa and back up the Des conservation, yes, alternative fuel, yes, Coughlin, offered the following prayer: Moines River, it looked like a big lake. but increasing supply. When you hear O God, who rules all the world from A lot of cropland is ruined, over 17 per- our friends on the other side of the everlasting to everlasting, during the cent, maybe more, and will not produce aisle, they will say, well, there’s al- time given them, help this Congress to this year. ready land that has been leased to the set a great agenda for this Nation and So we need the help of the country. oil companies, and they aren’t using it. its future. Grasping a sense of the ur- We need the help of this Congress. And Well, you’re right. They’re not using it gent needs of Your people, may this I salute the people of Iowa for coming because there’s no oil underneath it. week provide a sense of priorities. May together. They have come together They need to go where the oil is, and the desires of the common good over- with determination. I asked one lady in the oil is demonstrated in the deep sea shadow particular concerns and per- the Emergency Operations Center after exploration that we ought to allow. sonal preferences. So, Mr. Speaker, I’m proud to stand telling me all these things, I said, Inspire each Member to draw upon here with my colleague who has ‘‘How are you doing?’’ She said, ‘‘You his or her best instinct and highest brought forward the kind of clear evi- know, we are like family. We have ideal so true goodness overcomes every dence that Members of this House can pulled together. We are going to do evil and determined work whittles demonstrate to their constituents back this, but we are going to have to have away at every problem, until this great home and to their colleagues here in some help.’’ Nation becomes Your living glory for the House. It’s time to increase Amer- Mr. Speaker, I would hope today our ican supply of American energy for all the world to see. Speaker and leaders will be ready to Americans. I call on the leadership, on Show us the way, fill us with life, and help Iowa and other States out there the Speaker of the House and on the let truth reign, both now and forever. who are in dire need of help at this leadership of the majority party—the Amen. time. Democrats—to bring those bills for- f f ward. Let us vote. THE JOURNAL HONORING WKSK, A PILLAR OF f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The THE ASHE COMMUNITY WELCOMING OLIVET BAPTIST Chair has examined the Journal of the (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- CHURCH last day’s proceedings and announces mission to address the House for 1 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to the House his approval thereof. minute and to revise and extend her re- Chair recognizes the gentleman from Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- marks.) Tennessee (Mr. COHEN) for 1 minute. nal stands approved. Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, it is my f to honor a pillar of the Ashe County, pleasure today to welcome a group North Carolina, community, WKSK from my hometown, Olivet Baptist PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE radio and its owner Jan Caddell. Most Church, hosted by their pastor, Ken- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the of the Fifth District of North Carolina neth Whalum, Jr. gentleman from Iowa (Mr. BOSWELL) is a rural landscape, and beautiful, Pastor Whalum’s father, Pastor Ken- come forward and lead the House in the mountainous Ashe County is no excep- neth Whalum, Sr., passed away last Pledge of Allegiance. tion.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5416 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 As people who live in rural America tion in our Nation’s history, the by criminals to smuggle arms from well know, local radio stations are Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1928. It set Egypt into the Gaza Strip. Our troops often the lifeblood of vital community off a chain reaction of retaliatory tar- are out there teaching digging tech- life. WKSK radio is just such a radio iffs that caused a sharp decline in glob- niques to the Egyptians looking for the station, and recent audience measure- al trade. Modern economists largely lost treasure tunnels of guns and rock- ment results illustrate just that. Ac- agree that it deepened the Great De- ets. We are doing this to help protect cording to these results, WKSK has the pression. the borders of Israel and Egypt. most loyal local audience in its home Unfortunately, today this lesson Meanwhile, the U.S.-Mexican border county of any station in North Caro- seems to have gone largely unnoticed, is still porous for underground smug- lina. judging by the isolationist course the gling. Since 9/11, more than 40 smug- Next year, WKSK will celebrate the Democrat House leadership is cur- gling tunnels from Mexico to the 50-year mark of service to the people of rently embracing. Expanded trade is United States have been discovered. Ashe County. The fact that nearly 55 critical to job creation and economic Last year, the DEA located a high- percent of listeners in Ashe tune their growth, it levels the playing field for tech, sophisticated concrete tunnel 85 radios to WKSK, seven times more U.S. workers, and is crucial to keeping feet underground filled with two tons than the next closest station, is a true our Nation as the world’s number one of drugs. Law enforcement expects testament to the emphasis that WKSK economic trading powerhouse. there to be more tunnels found. places on serving Ashe County. Mr. Speaker, the United States must Rather than just protecting the bor- WKSK radio is a real community fix- reject the rising tide of economic isola- ders of other nations by training Egyp- ture, and I wish the station 50 more tionism and lead the world toward open tian tunnel raiders, maybe we ought to years of sterling service to the High markets. send the military to protect our own Country. f southern border from the underground secret tunnel invasion of guns, drugs f WELCOMING PRIME MINISTER and people coming into the United EXPRESSING CONCERN ABOUT THE SERGEI STANISHEV OF BULGARIA States without permission. AIR FORCE TANKER CONTRACT (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina And that’s just the way it is. AWARD asked and was given permission to ad- f (Mr. CARNAHAN asked and was dress the House for 1 minute and to re- given permission to address the House vise and extend his remarks.) THE PRESIDENT SHOULD REVOKE for 1 minute and to revise and extend Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. BAN ON EXPLORATION OF THE his remarks.) Speaker, as cochair of the Bulgaria OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF Mr. CARNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise Caucus, I rise today to welcome Prime (Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsylvania to express concern about the Air Minister Sergei Stanishev of the Re- asked and was given permission to ad- Force’s award of a $35 billion contract public of Bulgaria to Washington. dress the House for 1 minute.) to a foreign consortium which received Since the defeat of communism in Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsylvania. over $5 billion in foreign government Eastern Europe, Bulgaria has emerged Mr. Speaker, oil prices climb to record subsidies. as a dynamic democracy. The country highs; gasoline over $4; diesel prices Of concern is the Air Force defying became a part of NATO in 2004 and the near $5; family budgets stretched to its own ranking system, which awarded European Union in 2007. Recently the the limits. And how do we handle this? the Boeing Corporation 98 positive dis- World Bank classified Bulgaria as one We beg OPEC to produce more oil. The criminators and Northrop Grumman- of the top 10 nations to have under- Saudis say they will give us 200,000 EADS only 30, yet the tanker contract taken important economic reforms to more barrels a day in the world mar- went to EADS. attract business investment. Bulgaria ket, but the daily world demand is 84 Boeing’s 767 tanker had a positive is the only EU nation to be listed in million barrels. survivability rating. EADS’ aircraft the top 10. Hey, how about putting the U.S. in had a negative rating. Yet the tanker Since my first visit as an election ob- charge of our own economy? What contract went to EADS. server in June 1990, I have seen first- about American energy? Sixty-four Boeing has manufactured over 2,000 hand the talented people of Bulgaria percent of Americans support Amer- tankers with advanced fly-by-wire emerge from totalitarianism to be one ican-made energy. booms; EADS, zero. Yet the tanker of the world’s most vibrant nations as Today I will introduce a resolution contract went to EADS. a free market democracy. Elena calling upon the President to revoke a The lifecycle cost of the EADS tank- Poptodorova, the able ambassador from ban President Clinton extended in 1998 er is going to be billions and billions Bulgaria, has been vital in developing that prohibits exploration of our Outer more than that of the Boeing aircraft, Bulgarian-American friendships. Continental Shelf. The U.S. has the yet the tanker contract went to EADS. I especially wish to thank Bulgaria technology and regulatory framework We continue to face record fuel for their continued support in the glob- to ensure that these resources are de- prices, and it is critical that the Air al war on terrorism. I have visited Bul- veloped in an environmentally sound Force’s next refueling tanker meet or garian troops in Afghanistan, and my manner. The President has the power exceed their requirements and be as ef- son Alan served with Bulgarians in to remove this ban today, if he chooses. ficient as possible. An independent Iraq. Our Nation and the world is safer I invite all my colleagues to cospon- study has determined that the Boeing and more prosperous by defeating ter- sor my resolution, and send a clear sig- KC–767 fleet burns 24 percent less fuel rorism overseas. nal to the President and to the Amer- than the EADS A–330s. In conclusion, God bless our troops, ican people that we will help. For the sake of the American work- and we will never forget September the f ers, the American economy and our na- 11th. COMPREHENSIVE ENERGY POLICY tional security, it is time to revisit f NEEDED this contract. THE TUNNEL RAIDERS OF EGYPT f (Mr. BISHOP of Utah asked and was (Mr. POE asked and was given per- given permission to address the House MARKING THE 78TH ANNIVERSARY mission to address the House for 1 for 1 minute.) OF SMOOT-HAWLEY minute.) Mr. BISHOP. Mr. Speaker, during the (Mr. HERGER asked and was given Mr. POE. Mr. Speaker, it seems like Second Continental Congress, John permission to address the House for 1 Indiana Jones is at it again. This time Adams wrote a letter to his wife, Abi- minute and to revise and extend his re- the search is on for the secret under- gail. He said, ‘‘I have always felt dis- marks.) ground tunnels of Egypt. satisfied, but apparently now I seem to Mr. HERGER. Mr. Speaker, today The United States Army in Texas is reek of discontent.’’ He reeked of dis- marks the 78th anniversary of perhaps training Egyptian soldiers to locate content because he knew what the the most disastrous economic legisla- and destroy underground tunnels used right thing to do was, but he couldn’t

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5417 get the leaders of the Continental Con- ysis released earlier this month, this ‘‘(e) CAPTIVE WILDLIFE OFFENSE.— gress to do it, which was to declare decision will ground at least 14,000 U.S. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—It is unlawful for any per- independence. jobs. Roughly half the parts and labor son to import, export, transport, sell, receive, ac- Today, with gasoline at over $4 a gal- that go into making Airbus tankers quire, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce any live animal of any prohibited wildlife lon, $1.75 higher than when we started will come from overseas. species. this Congress, and still no comprehen- Producing the Airbus KC–45 tanker ‘‘(2) LIMITATION ON APPLICATION.—This sub- sive energy plan, I as well as the Amer- would support about 14,350 U.S. jobs per section— ican people seem of reek of discontent, year, while Boeing’s proposed tanker ‘‘(A) does not apply to a person transporting because we know what the right thing would support at least twice as many a nonhuman primate to or from a veterinarian to do is, but we can’t get the leaders of jobs—including those for high-skilled who is licensed to practice veterinary medicine Congress to do it, in this case to de- workers manufacturing engines in Mid- within the United States, solely for the purpose of providing veterinary care to the nonhuman clare energy independence. dletown, Connecticut. Our economy primate, if— I specifically take umbrage at the has lost nearly 325,000 jobs since the be- ‘‘(i) the person transporting the nonhuman fact that last week I had to fly for 4 ginning of the year. We should not be primate carries written documentation issued by hours to come back here to vote on sending more jobs overseas, outsourc- the veterinarian, including the appointment telling people how to spend their stim- ing our technological base. We should date and location; ulus paycheck and saying that Con- be creating jobs at home, supporting ‘‘(ii) the nonhuman primate is transported in gress approved of D-day and ending the local innovation, and investing in our a secure enclosure appropriate for that species Revolutionary War, but still no effort economy. of primate; ‘‘(iii) the nonhuman primate has no contact to try and solve our energy problem. f with any other animals or members of the pub- We need a comprehensive bill that ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER lic, other than the veterinarian and other au- will increase our conservation, increase PRO TEMPORE thorized medical personnel providing veterinary our production and increase our ability care; and to innovate how we deliver energy to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ‘‘(iv) such transportation and provision of the American people, and we need it ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair veterinary care is in accordance with all other- now. Otherwise, we will continue to will postpone further proceedings wise applicable State and local laws, regulations, permits, and health certificates; reek of this discontent. today on motions to suspend the rules on which a recorded vote or the yeas ‘‘(B) does not apply to a person transporting f a nonhuman primate to a legally designated and nays are ordered, or on which the 1415 caregiver for the nonhuman primate as a result b vote is objected to under clause 6 of of the death of the preceding owner of the COMMUNICATION FROM THE rule XX. nonhuman primate, if— CLERK OF THE HOUSE Record votes on postponed questions ‘‘(i) the person transporting the nonhuman will be taken after 6:30 p.m. today. primate is carrying legal documentation to sup- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- port the need for transporting the nonhuman f fore the House the following commu- primate to the legally designated caregiver; nication from the Clerk of the House of CAPTIVE PRIMATE SAFETY ACT ‘‘(ii) the nonhuman primate is transported in Representatives: Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move a secure enclosure appropriate for the species; ‘‘(iii) the nonhuman primate has no contact OFFICE OF THE CLERK, to suspend the rules and pass the bill with any other animals or members of the public HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, (H.R. 2964) to amend the Lacey Act while being transported to the legally des- Washington, DC, June 16, 2008. Amendments of 1981 to treat nonhuman ignated caregiver; and Hon. NANCY PELOSI, ‘‘(iv) all applicable State and local restrictions The Speaker, House of Representatives, primates as prohibited wildlife species on such transport, and all applicable State and Washington, DC. under that Act, to make corrections in local requirements for permits or health certifi- DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the the provisions relating to captive wild- cates, are complied with; and permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II life offenses under that Act, and for ‘‘(C) does not apply’’; of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- other purposes, as amended. (C) in paragraph (2) (as redesignated by sub- tives, the Clerk received the following mes- The Clerk read the title of the bill. paragraph (A))— sage from the Secretary of the Senate on The text of the bill is as follows: (i) by striking ‘‘a’’ before ‘‘prohibited’’ and in- June 16, 2008, at 10:25 a.m.: H.R. 2964 serting ‘‘any’’; That the Senate agreed to without amend- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (ii) by striking ‘‘(3)’’ and inserting ‘‘(4)’’; and ment H. Con. Res. 325. (iii) by striking ‘‘(2)’’ and inserting ‘‘(3)’’; With best wishes, I am resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, (D) in paragraph (3) (as redesignated by sub- Sincerely, paragraph (A))— LORRAINE C. MILLER, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (i) in subparagraph (C)— Clerk of the House. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Captive Primate (I) in clauses (ii) and (iii), by striking ‘‘ani- f Safety Act’’. mals listed in section 2(g)’’ each place it appears SEC. 2. ADDITION OF NONHUMAN PRIMATES TO and inserting ‘‘prohibited wildlife species’’; and EXPRESSING CONCERN ABOUT THE DEFINITION OF PROHIBITED WILD- (II) in clause (iv), by striking ‘‘animals’’ and AIR FORCE TANKER CONTRACT LIFE SPECIES. inserting ‘‘prohibited wildlife species’’; and AWARD Section 2(g) of the Lacey Act Amendments of (ii) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘animal’’ 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3371(g)) is amended by inserting each place it appears and inserting ‘‘prohibited (Ms. DELAURO asked and was given before the period at the end ‘‘or any nonhuman wildlife species’’; permission to address the House for 1 primate’’. (E) in paragraph (4) (as redesignated by sub- minute and to revise and extend her re- SEC. 3. CAPTIVE WILDLIFE AMENDMENTS. paragraph (A)), by striking ‘‘(2)’’ and inserting marks.) (a) PROHIBITED ACTS.—Section 3 of the Lacey ‘‘(3)’’; Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, this Act Amendments of 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3372) is (F) in paragraph (6) (as redesignated by sub- week the GAO will rule on the Boeing amended— paragraph (A)), by striking ‘‘subsection protest of the Air Force acquisition (1) in subsection (a)— (a)(2)(C)’’ and inserting ‘‘this subsection’’; and process for the $35 billion award to re- (A) in paragraph (2)— (G) by inserting after paragraph (6) (as redes- (i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting ‘‘or’’ place the KC–135 air refueling tankers ignated by subparagraph (A)) the following: after the semicolon; ‘‘(7) APPLICATION.—This subsection shall that went to Northrop and a European (ii) in subparagraph (B)(iii), by striking ‘‘; or’’ apply beginning on the effective date of regula- consortium team in February. and inserting a semicolon; and tions promulgated under this subsection.’’. The Department of Labor’s employ- (iii) by striking subparagraph (C); and (b) CIVIL PENALTIES.—Section 4(a) of the ment report for May showed a loss of (B) in paragraph (4), by inserting ‘‘or sub- Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 (16 U.S.C. 49,000 jobs and an unemployment rate section (e)’’ before the period; and 3373(a)) is amended— that increased to 5.5 percent—the big- (2) in subsection (e)— (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘(e),’’ after gest monthly rise since 1986. Yet this (A) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), ‘‘subsections (b), (d),’’ ; and and (5) as paragraphs (3), (4), (5), and (6) re- (2) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘, (e),’’ after contract will not only continue but ac- spectively; ‘‘subsection (d)’’. celerate the erosion of our industrial (B) by striking ‘‘(e)’’ and all that follows (c) CRIMINAL PENALTIES.—Section 4(d) of the base and skilled workforce. According through ‘‘Subsection (a)(2)(C) does not apply’’ Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 (16 U.S.C. to an Economic Policy Institute anal- in paragraph (1) and inserting the following: 3373(d)) is amended—

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 6333 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5418 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 (1) in paragraphs (1)(A) and (1)(B) and in the creasing commerce in nonhuman pri- bill, to hire additional staff to conduct first sentence of paragraph (2), by inserting mates, as H.R. 2964 would do, limits inspections and investigations to en- ‘‘(e),’’ after ‘‘subsections (b), (d),’’ each place it interactions and diminishes risks. force this act. On a per incident basis, appears; and Mr. Speaker, I understand that late this represents about a half million (2) in paragraph (3), by inserting ‘‘, (e),’’ after ‘‘subsection (d)’’. last week there were some concerns dollars in U.S. public taxpayer money SEC. 4. APPLICABILITY PROVISION AMENDMENT. raised about the effect of the bill on per bite. At that rate, I hope I can Section 3 of the Captive Wildlife Safety Act nonhuman primates that serve as as- apply for the job. (117 Stat. 2871; Public Law 108–191) is amend- sistance animals for individuals with At a time when our national debt is ed— spinal cord injuries. We have com- approaching a staggering $9 trillion, (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘(a) IN GEN- mitted to work to carefully address certainly it is legitimate to ask wheth- ERAL.—Section 3’’ and inserting ‘‘Section 3’’; that very narrow issue in a way that er this is a wise use of taxpayer money, and does not create unintended loopholes in especially in light of the fact that the (2) by striking subsection (b). the prohibitions established by the bill. States have been and are quite capable SEC. 5. REGULATIONS. With that, Mr. Speaker, I ask Mem- of regulating the nonhuman primate Section 7(a) of the Lacey Act Amendments of pet trade now and in the future. Maybe 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3376(a)) is amended by adding at bers on both sides to support passage of the end the following new paragraph: this noncontroversial bill. we should actually spend more of our ‘‘(3) The Secretary shall, in consultation with I reserve the balance of my time. time with the human primates’ energy other relevant Federal and State agencies, issue Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I issues instead of the nonhuman pri- regulations to implement section 3(e).’’. wish to yield myself such time as I mate pet trade nonissue. SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS may consume and I would like to raise I reserve the balance of my time. FOR ADDITIONAL LAW ENFORCE- a few issues that give me pause. Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I have MENT PERSONNEL. As a matter of full disclosure, neither no additional requests for time and In addition to such other amounts as are au- would inquire of the minority whether thorized to carry out the Lacey Act Amendments I nor any member of my family own a pet capuchin, a howler or a spider mon- they have any additional speakers. of 1981 (16 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.), there is author- Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I do have a few ized to be appropriated to the Secretary of the key. However, I admit that I’m not Interior $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2009 to hire ad- particularly fond of those annoying other speakers. ditional law enforcement personnel of the rally monkeys that seem to show up Ms. BORDALLO. In that case, then, United States Fish and Wildlife Service to enduring the American League baseball Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of force that Act. playoffs. my time. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I will yield as The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- This legislation would amend the much time as the lady wishes to con- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from Lacey Act to make it a Federal crime sume to the gentlelady from the State Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and the gen- to import, export, transport, sell, re- of North Carolina. tleman from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each ceive, acquire or purchase a nonhuman Ms. FOXX. I want to thank my col- will control 20 minutes. primate pet in either interstate or for- league from Utah for yielding. The Chair recognizes the gentle- eign commerce. This measure contains I agree with my colleague from Utah woman from Guam. the distressing trend of federalizing yet that we ought to be dealing with things GENERAL LEAVE another issue that clearly falls under that are important to the American Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask the jurisdiction of State fish and wild- people, and it seems to me that this unanimous consent that all Members life agencies. In fact, more than 40 bill is not something that is high on may have 5 days to revise and extend States already either prohibit the own- the agenda of most Americans. What is their remarks and include extraneous ership of monkeys or require a license high on the agenda of most Americans material on the bill under consider- or permit to own them. is the cost of gas and oil in this coun- ation. It also begs the question of why is try. The Democratic leadership simply The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there there an overriding need for this legis- is refusing to deal with it and deal with objection to the request of the gentle- lation? According to the proponents, it in a realistic manner. woman from Guam? nonhuman primates attack people and I think it’s very important that we There was no objection. spread deadly diseases. Yet there have point out the history of our having Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield only been 132 documented incidents dealt with these issues over the years myself such time as I may consume. over a 10-year period where nonhuman and what Republicans have tried to do. H.R. 2964, the Captive Primate Safety primates have injured a human pri- Let me talk about the issues of supply Act, was introduced by our colleague mate. Of these incidents, 80 involved and demand. We have tried and tried to from Texas, Congresswoman EDDIE primate pets, not covered by this bill, increase the supply of fuel oil and gaso- BERNICE JOHNSON. This bill amends the or less than eight attacks per year. By line in this country for many years. Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to pro- contrast, man’s best friend sends more Let me tell you how we have voted on hibit the import, export, transpor- than 100,000 people to the hospital each this issue: tation, sale, receipt, acquisition, or year, not to mention the numerous On ANWR exploration, House Repub- purchase in interstate or foreign com- romps in the yard ruined by the dis- licans, 91 percent of us, have supported merce of nonhuman primates. covery of a substance left by the neigh- that. Eighty-six percent of House Although the importation of bor’s schizophrenic canine friend. Democrats have opposed it. Consist- nonhuman primates into the United Furthermore, we heard testimony be- ently Democrats have voted against States for the pet trade has been fore our committee that there is no creating more supply by drilling in banned by Federal regulation since 1975 documentation of pet primates being a ANWR, a place about the size of a post- due to health concerns, these animals threat to public safety. In fact, there age stamp on a football field as the size are readily available for purchase on have been no instances where a captive of ANWR is to the State of Alaska. the Internet and from exotic animal nonhuman primate pet has caused a How about coal-to-liquid. There are dealers. While some States already pro- disease transmission or human death. many ways that we can help our energy hibit the possession of these animals as While I am not a betting man, the situation in this country. The Demo- pets, there remains an active trade in chances of being bitten by a pet crats say we can’t drill our way out of these animals. nonhuman primate in this country ap- it. Well, there are lots of ways that we Nonhuman primates may pose seri- pears to be about one in 38 million. could get the resources we need. We ous risks to public health and safety. Since this is hardly a public safety have supported the issue of turning They can transmit diseases and inflict issue, I wish to address this body—or coal into liquid fuel for a long, long serious physical harm. In addition, direct this body if there are any Mem- time. Ninety-seven percent of Repub- most people cannot provide the special bers of the body actually here—to the licans have supported it. Seventy-eight care, housing, diet and enrichment cost of this legislation. According to percent of Democrats have opposed it. that these animals require. Interstate the Congressional Budget Office, it will How about exploring oil shale. Nine- transport increases these risks to both cost $4 million a year for the U.S. Fish ty percent of Republicans have sup- humans and primates. Conversely, de- and Wildlife Service, who opposed this ported that issue. Eighty-six percent of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5419 Democrats have opposed it. It is no country. Those are expensive monkey going to cost a half a million dollars wonder that we are having problems bites. Not only are they rare, and that per bite, that’s not the kind of common with supply of energy resources in this may be the reason they’re so expensive sense, that’s not the kind of change country when we have had almost all is they are so rare; but we could be that American people are looking at. Democrats opposing it over the years. spending that money towards drilling, What they’re looking at is the com- How about drilling on the Outer Con- towards exploring our own natural re- monsense change of us getting out of tinental Shelf. Eighty-one percent of sources. fetal position in this body, Mr. Speak- House Republicans have supported it. That’s the reason I came up with a er, and doing something to lower the Eighty-three percent of House Demo- petition. I heard about all of these peti- price, to lower the pain for them at the crats have opposed it. tions on the Internet about where gas pump, not reduce the pain from How about increasing refinery capac- American citizens could go and sign a monkey bites. ity in this country, which is an issue in petition to let Congress know how they Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield terms of providing the supply we need. felt about high energy prices. And I myself such time as I may consume. Ninety-seven percent of House Repub- thought, you know, why don’t you Yes, Mr. Speaker, people indeed are licans have supported increasing refin- come up with a petition that the Mem- being bit by monkeys, and they are ery capacity. Ninety-six percent of bers of Congress can sign to let the also being bit at the gas pumps. I House Democrats have opposed it. people of America know how their Rep- would just like to note a few statistics Just so people know, we have vali- resentative feels about the common- regarding monkey risks to the public. dated these statistics by going back sense issue of providing our own re- In June of 2008 in New York, a 22- and counting the actual votes on these sources. month-old girl playing in her backyard issues over the years. So we came up with the American put her fingers through a fence into a So here is the summary: Ninety-one Energy Solutions for Lower Gas Prices, neighbor’s yard and was bitten by their percent on average of House Repub- bring onshore oil online, bring deep pet monkey. Doctors spent 12 hours licans have historically voted to in- water oil online, and bring new refin- trying to reattach her finger. crease the production of American- eries online. And just to make it spe- In March 2008 in Indiana, a child vis- made oil and gas. We do have the capa- cial, I made every Member of Congress iting a home was bitten by a pet capu- bility in this country to become energy a separate line on the petition. And chin monkey. independent. But 86 percent of House what the petition says is: I will vote to In February 2008 in Arizona, a 3-year- Democrats have historically voted increase U.S. oil production to lower old boy was bitten by a pet lemur his against increasing the production of gas prices for Americans. And there are family just got 2 weeks before. American-made oil and gas. They obvi- two pens on it. So I am going to invite In February 2008 in Washington, a pet ously want us to remain dependent on everyone to sign it. monkey escaped from a home and bit foreign oil. It is something I simply Mr. Speaker, today when we vote on three people. cannot understand. They seem to want the monkey bite bill, there will prob- In December 2007 in North Carolina, a the American people to suffer. They ably be a little over 400 Members, prob- clerk at a convenience store was bitten and their radical environmentalist ably around 410 or 412, that will vote on by a customer’s pet monkey. friends don’t want us to do anything to the monkey bite, and I would hope that In September 2007 in Missouri, two increase the supply of oil and gas. Re- we would have that many signatures on children were bitten by a pet monkey publicans do want to increase the sup- this petition. There are 435 slots over at a park. The woman who owned the ply of oil and gas, and the facts prove here for people who have the ability monkey ran off with the animal. it out. and under the Constitution to vote on In August 2007 in Wisconsin, a woman Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I re- this floor, have an opportunity to sign was bitten by a pet monkey a man had serve the balance of my time. that petition to let their constituents on a leash. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I yield such know that they are for commonsense In April 2007 in Mississippi, a Federal time as he may consume to the gen- energy practices. agent approached a home and was at- tleman from Georgia. You know, the keyword today, Mr. tacked by a monkey. Mr. WESTMORELAND. I thank my Speaker, in all of the campaigns you Mr. Speaker, from January 2007 right friend for yielding. hear about is change. I think Ameri- here on my list until March 2005, there I found some of the facts today pret- cans do want change. I think our voters are nine other listed cases. So yes, peo- ty interesting about this monkey bill, do want change. I don’t know if it is ple are being bitten by monkeys. this monkey business, Mr. Speaker. the radical, rock-your-world, turn-ev- And this is how they are getting bit- I’ve only been in Congress 4 years, I erything-upside-down change that ten at the pumps. Currently oil and gas was in the State legislature 12 years, some of the candidates are talking companies hold leases on nearly 68 mil- and I’ve never had a call about a mon- about, but I think it is this kind of lion acres of Federal land both on shore key bite or monkey bites being ramp- change, I think it is a change for hon- and under OCS waters that they are ant in my district. I’m sure that it’s esty. I think the American people want not, I say that they are not developing. important. As my friend from Utah to know where their Member or their That is roughly the size of the State of stated, don’t be real alarmed that your elected official stands on the issues. Colorado. That 68 million acres of Congress has brought this front and And we make them so complicated that leased but stockpiled, inactive Federal center, the first bill on the floor today every Member of this body can go home oil and gas lands could produce an ad- in the House of Representatives. You and give a good reason why they voted ditional 4.8 million barrels of oil and can take comfort, because only one in for or against something. This sim- 44.7 billion cubic feet of natural gas 38 million, that’s your chances of get- plifies it so the American people can every day. I would point out that would ting bit by a monkey today. see the honesty in their Member that nearly double total U.S. oil production says yes, I will vote to increase U.S. oil and increase natural gas production by b 1430 production to lower gas prices for 75 percent. Now your chances are pretty good if Americans. That’s simple. Let me reiterate that if drilling took you are driving a gasoline-powered car, The other thing they want is com- place on the 68 million acres of Federal when you pull into the service station, mon sense. They want common sense. lands currently under lease to oil and you are going to pay about $4.08 for Common sense, Mr. Speaker, is to use gas companies, an area the size of Colo- gas. Now that’s for sure. We need to be our own natural resources rather than rado, we would nearly double total do- concentrating on that pain that you’re going into other countries in the world mestic oil production. It would also cut feeling, not the pain of a monkey bite, hat in hand begging for their natural U.S. oil imports by one-third and it but the pain at the gas pump that resources. That’s not common sense. It would be more than six times the esti- you’re feeling. is not common sense to be in this body mated peak production from the Arctic And, you know, we’re going to spend, passing a law today about monkey National Wildlife Refuge. So that is as my friend from Utah said, a half bites when you have a 1 in 38 million where the problem lies, the industry is million dollars per monkey bite in this chance of getting bit. Or that it is simply not using what it already has.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5420 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 And one must wonder, is this done on knew that there was no oil? I would say b 1445 purpose? Is it being done to keep sup- no. But evidently the majority, the But every monkey bite causes unnec- ply off the market in order to keep Democrats, believe that because you essary disease risk to those who are record-level prices and world-record have 68 million acres of land, that you bitten. profits? need to drill on it. Although 54 percent, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Let me remind my colleagues that 54 percent of the holes that were put in my time. the number of Federal onshore drilling the ground for exploration between 2002 Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I think I am permits has exploded in recent years. and 2007 were dry. So would you con- ready to finish out here. Between 1999 and 2007, the Interior De- tinue drilling on that 68 million acres One of the problems that we have had partment increased the number of out of 2.5 billion acres? I don’t think over the past is an effort, as we try to those permits it issued by 361 percent. so. I think that the American people look at energy independence, is to find I would also note that of all the oil and with common sense would say, you some kind of scapegoat, someone whom gas believed to exist on the Outer Con- know what, if there isn’t oil there, why to blame, usually a corporation. The tinental Shelf, 82 percent of the nat- would you drill? reality is that is not what we should be ural gas and 79 percent of the oil is lo- Do you go to the hardware store to doing. What we should be doing is find- cated in areas that are currently open buy groceries? I don’t think the aver- ing commonsense solutions to the to leasing. age American goes down to the hard- problem. So the gentleman is correct, we have ware store looking for Quaker oats. He Oil companies already are putting a problem here; but the solution is to goes to a grocery store. billions of dollars into research, but for prompt the holders of these valuable And so if you are going to be drilling every one of those holes that are energy leases to develop them. The for oil, the commonsense thing is that drilled, there is always a delaying con- chairman of the Natural Resources you would want to drill where oil is at. cept that sometimes will last between 7 Committee, Mr. NICK RAHALL, has put We know how many barrels are under and 10 years for environmental engi- forth a solution, drill it or lose it. ANWR. We know how many barrels of neering studies, permitting, and then The Responsible Federal Oil and Gas shale, a trillion barrels of shale in the even comes the litigation and the regu- Lease Act of 2008 would compel oil and western United States, enough oil in lation on top of that. gas companies to either produce or give ANWR to last us 50 years at the rate of The bottom line is still, on our off- up Federal onshore and OCS leases that what Saudi Arabia produces. So there shore coast, 85 percent and onshore 67 they are stockpiling by barring the is some common sense, and there is percent of all our land is permanently companies from obtaining any more truth that there is 68 million acres locked away where there is no way of leases unless they can demonstrate leased. But the truth of it is half of the getting to the resource assets that are that they are producing oil and gas or exploratory holes have been dry, so there. That’s the reality of what’s tak- are diligently developing the leases why would you want to continue to ing place. May I also address this bill specifi- they already hold during the initial drill. cally as well. The gentlelady from term of the leases. We need to open up new oil reserves Companies could avoid this new lease and we need to make this to where Guam has given seven examples of situ- prohibition by relinquishing their non- companies want to go and explore for ations and problems with nonhuman primates, monkey bites. Unfortu- producing leases, creating an oppor- oil. We need to use our common sense nately, every situation that was given tunity for another company to explore and say we are not going to be depend- was already covered in existing law, for and perhaps produce oil or gas from ent any longer on foreign oil in foreign and the bill before us would in no way them. Under the bill, the terms of places and foreign resources. Let’s use cover any of those situations. leases which are in production or which our own resources. We have the tech- This deals simply with transpor- can demonstrate diligent development nology to do it. We can do it in an envi- tation. It doesn’t deal with the situa- are extended. Companies which lease ronmentally safe way. tions that were brought up. Once again, Federal coal resources are by law re- But it is time that the majority of this bill does not fit the examples that quired to diligently develop these this country is quit being held hostage have been brought up as to why the bill leases. This requirement has discour- at the gas pump for gas over $4 a gallon should be there. aged the rampant speculation that by a small, radical environmental The bottom line is still the Depart- once existed in the Federal coal leasing group that is controlling the majority ment of the Interior is opposing this program, the same type of speculation party in this Congress. bill because they say it is new enforce- that now appears to be plaguing the Mr. Speaker, I hope that we will ment mandates. They’re enforcement Federal oil and gas leasing program. bring some energy legislation to this mandates in areas they have not been So I say, let’s set the Big Oil monkey floor rather than the monkey bite bill. historically responsible because their off the people’s backs; drill it or lose it. Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, the area is in the area of wilderness and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of gentleman stated that if you were an wildlife conservation. This does not my time. oil company, would you drill where meet it. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I there is no oil; of course not. And that And indeed, the Interior Department wish to yield additional time to the is not the situation. The oil companies once again said that this bill is cov- gentleman from Georgia (Mr. WEST- bid on these Federal leases. They pay erage that is duplicative of existing MORELAND). for them because they believe there is laws. And that’s one of the reasons why Mr. WESTMORELAND. I thank my oil on this acreage. The oil companies we have a problem with this particular friend from Utah. are paying rental fees on these leases. bill, in an area to try to expand what I want to just address a couple of Why, because they believe they hold we’re doing in an area which ought not things that have been brought up; use oil. Drill it or lose it. be expanded because local governments it or lose it, drill it or lose it. That is I do have another comment on the and States have a better way and can already the law. That’s already the gentleman’s comments that he made easily, easily solve this particular law. earlier. problem without the extra expense to We have 68 million acres out of 2.5 Mr. Speaker, monkeys do pose a dis- the national taxpayer. billion. Now we talked about common ease risk. Some monkeys used as pets With that, Mr. Speaker, I will yield sense, at least I talked about common often carry the deadly Herpes B virus, back the balance of my time. sense, about what we are doing here. and the CDC concludes that makaks Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I find And, I’m sorry, I didn’t have time to are unsuitable as pets because of this it interesting that a bill that was ap- write down all of the dog bites. I no- health risk. proved by the Natural Resources Com- ticed we were quoting all of the mon- And the gentleman mentioned dog mittee by unanimous consent is sud- key bites. But what I will tell you as bites. Of course there are more dog denly objectionable to the minority. far as common sense goes, if you were bites, Mr. Speaker, there are 75 million But I urge Members to support it. an exploration company, if you were an dogs in the United States, but only Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the oil company, would you drill where you 10,000 to 15,000 monkeys. Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus, I

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5421 rise in support of H.R. 2964, the Captive Pri- SEC. 3. CONVEYANCE TO JEFFERSON COUNTY, Mr. Speaker, we have no objections, mate Safety Act, which prohibits the sale of MONTANA. and it is time to put this bill to rest. (a) CONVEYANCE.—Not later than 180 days nonhuman primates such as chimpanzees, after the date of enactment of this Act and I reserve the balance of my time. monkeys, and lemurs. subject to valid existing rights, the Sec- Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I I am concerned about both the public health retary (acting through the Regional For- yield myself such time as I may con- and animal welfare implications of nonhuman ester, Northern Region, Missoula, Montana) sume. primate ownership, which this legislation ad- shall convey by quitclaim deed to the Coun- The gentlelady from Guam has ade- dresses. For example, nonhuman primates ty for no consideration, all right, title, and quately explained this bill. I’d like to can spread disease and inflict serious injury interest of the United States, except as pro- commend congressman DENNY vided in subsection (e), in and to the parcel on their owners. They require a special diet REHBERG and his staff for their dili- of land described in subsection (b). and large habitats, two things most pet owners (b) DESCRIPTION OF LAND.—The parcel of gence in this particular bill; grateful are unable to provide, particularly as these land referred to in subsection (a) is the par- for all for allowing the conveyance of animals grow in size and strength. cel of approximately 9.67 acres of National this 10 acres of excess Forest Service Federal health regulations currently prohibit Forest System land (including any improve- land to the community of Jefferson importing primates into the U.S. as pets, and ments to the land) in the County that is County, MT to be used as their ceme- many States prohibit pet ownership of pri- known as the ‘‘Elkhorn Cemetery’’, as gen- tery. mates as well. In spite of this, an estimated erally depicted on the map. I join the gentlelady from Guam in 15,000 primates are owned by private individ- (c) USE OF LAND.—As a condition of the conveyance under subsection (a), the County saying that I am glad that we can fi- uals, and are available for purchase around shall— nally put this issue to rest in peace. the country. (1) use the land described in subsection (b) I yield back the balance of my time. The bottom line is, the average pet owner as a County cemetery; and Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I does not have the ability to properly care for (2) agree to manage the cemetery with due again urge Members to support the bill, these animals and, because of this, both they consideration and protection for the historic and I yield back the balance of my and their pets are at risk. and cultural values of the cemetery, under time. It is appropriate we protect nonhuman pri- such terms and conditions as are agreed to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The mates, man’s closest animal relative, by pro- by the Secretary and the County. (d) EASEMENT.—In conveying the land to question is on the motion offered by hibiting pet ownership of this kind. I strongly the County under subsection (a), the Sec- the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. support adoption of H.R. 2964. retary, in accordance with applicable law, BORDALLO) that the House suspend the Ms. BORDALLO. I yield back the bal- shall grant to the County an easement rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3702, as ance of my time. across certain National Forest System land, amended. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The as generally depicted on the map, to provide The question was taken. question is on the motion offered by access to the land conveyed under that sub- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. section. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being (e) REVERSION.—In the quitclaim deed to BORDALLO) that the House suspend the in the affirmative, the ayes have it. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2964, as the County, the Secretary shall provide that the land conveyed to the County under sub- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, on amended. section (a) shall revert to the Secretary, at that I demand the yeas and nays. The question was taken. the election of the Secretary, if the land is— The yeas and nays were ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the (1) used for a purpose other than the pur- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being poses described in subsection (c)(1); or ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the in the affirmative, the ayes have it. (2) managed by the County in a manner Chair’s prior announcement, further Mr. WESTMORELAND. Mr. Speaker, that is inconsistent with subsection (c)(2). proceedings on this motion will be on that I demand the yeas and nays. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- postponed. The yeas and nays were ordered. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and the gen- f ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the tleman from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY Chair’s prior announcement, further will control 20 minutes. Mr. WESTMORELAND. Parliamen- proceedings on this motion will be The Chair recognizes the gentle- tary inquiry, Mr. Speaker. postponed. woman from Guam. f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- GENERAL LEAVE tleman will state his inquiry. MONTANA CEMETERY ACT OF 2008 Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask Mr. WESTMORELAND. How did you Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move unanimous consent that all Members count? You said a sufficient number to suspend the rules and pass the bill may have 5 legislative days in which to having arisen. I only see four Members (H.R. 3702) to direct the Secretary of revise and extend their remarks and in- in here, and I only saw one rise. Agriculture to convey certain land in clude extraneous material on the bill The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National under consideration. Chair’s count is not subject to appeal. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Forest, Montana, to Jefferson County, Mr. WESTMORELAND. Okay. Well, objection to the request of the gentle- Montana, for use as a cemetery, as all right. But further parliamentary in- woman from Guam? amended. quiry. If there’s four of us in here, and There was no objection. The Clerk read the title of the bill. one stands up, is that, in the Chair’s Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield The text of the bill is as follows: opinion, enough to call for a vote? myself such time as I may consume. H.R. 3702 H.R. 3702 requires the Secretary of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Agriculture to convey approximately Chair stated that a sufficient number resentatives of the United States of America in 9.67 acres of land in the Beaverhead- had arisen and his count is not subject Congress assembled, to appeal. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Deerlodge National Forest, Montana, This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Montana to Jefferson County, MT for use as a f Cemetery Act of 2008’’. cemetery. The parcel to be conveyed to MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. Jefferson County is currently being In this Act: used for these same purposes, and is A message in writing from the Presi- (1) COUNTY.—The term ‘‘County’’ means known as ‘‘Elkhorn Cemetery.’’ The dent of the United States was commu- Jefferson County, Montana. conveyance will provide land to accom- nicated to the House by Ms. Wanda (2) MAP.—The term ‘‘map’’ means the map modate all known grave sites and any Evans, one of his secretaries. that is— additional sites that may be outside of f (A) entitled ‘‘Elkhorn Cemetery’’; (B) dated May 9, 2005; and the concentration of known graves. The bill also provides for the contin- SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND (C) on file in the office of the Beaverhead- IDEALS OF AMERICAN EAGLE DAY Deerlodge National Forest Supervisor. ued protection of the historic and cul- (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ tural values associated with the prop- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move means the Secretary of Agriculture. erty. to suspend the rules and agree to the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5422 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 resolution (H. Res. 1247) supporting the Whereas the dramatic recovery of the bald The resolution further encourages goals and ideals of ‘‘American Eagle eagle population is an endangered species the American people to observe Amer- Day’’, and celebrating the recovery and success story and an inspirational example ican Eagle Day with appropriate cere- restoration of the American bald eagle, for other wildlife and natural resource con- monies. servation efforts around the world; the national symbol of the United Whereas the initial recovery of the bald This resolution merits our support. States, as amended. eagle population was accomplished by the I reserve the balance of my time. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- concerted efforts of numerous government Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I tion. agencies, corporations, organizations, and wish to yield, before I make my state- The text of the resolution is as fol- individuals; and ment, to the gentleman from Ten- lows: Whereas the sustained recovery of the bald nessee (Mr. DAVID DAVIS), the sponsor H. RES. 1247 eagle populations will require the continu- of this particular resolution, as much ation of recovery, management, education, Whereas the bald eagle was designated as time as he may consume. and public awareness programs, to ensure the national emblem of the United States on Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. Mr. that the populations and habitat of bald ea- June 20, 1782, by our country’s Founding Fa- gles will remain healthy and secure for fu- Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. thers at the Second Continental Congress; ture generations: Now, therefore, be it 1247, a bill I introduced, to support the Whereas the bald eagle is the central Resolved, That the House of Representa- goals and ideals of June 20 as American image used in the Great Seal of the United tives— Eagle Day. The bill also highlights the States and the seals of the President and (1) supports the goals and ideals of ‘‘Amer- Vice President; successful recovery story of the Amer- ican Eagle Day’’; and ican bald eagle, the official national Whereas the image of the bald eagle is dis- (2) encourages— played in the official seal of many branches emblem of the United States. (A) educational entities, organizations, The American bald eagle has been a and departments of the Federal Government, businesses, conservation groups, and govern- including— ment agencies with a shared interest in con- part of American culture for hundreds (1) Congress; serving endangered species to collaborate on of years. In 1782, the Second Conti- (2) the Supreme Court; nental Congress established that the (3) the Department of Defense; education information for use in schools; and (4) the Department of the Treasury; (B) the people of the United States to ob- bald eagle was the official emblem of (5) the Department of Justice; serve American Eagle Day with appropriate the United States because of its (6) the Department of State; ceremonies and other activities. uniqueness to North America. It can be (7) the Department of Commerce; The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- seen on the United States seals in pub- (8) the Department of Homeland Security; (9) the Department of Veterans Affairs; ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from lic buildings, schools, and even here in (10) the Department of Labor; Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and the gen- the House Chamber. Over the years, (11) the Department of Health and Human tleman from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each the bald eagle has become a living Services; will control 20 minutes. symbol of the United States spirit, (12) the Department of Energy; The Chair recognizes the gentle- freedoms, and continual pursuit of ex- (13) the Department of Housing and Urban woman from Guam. Development; cellence. GENERAL LEAVE (14) the Central Intelligence Agency; and Mr. Speaker, just 45 years ago the (15) the United States Postal Service; Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask United States had only about 400 nest- Whereas the bald eagle is an inspiring sym- unanimous consent that all Members ing pairs of the American bald eagle. bol of the American spirit of freedom and de- may have 5 legislative days to revise Through conservation, education and mocracy; and extend their remarks and include careful planning, today we have seen a Whereas the image, meaning, and sym- extraneous material on the resolution significant rise to about 7,000 nesting bolism of the bald eagle have played a sig- under consideration. nificant role in American art, music, his- pairs of the American bald eagle. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Because of the successful recovery tory, literature, architecture, and culture objection to the request of the gentle- since the founding of our Nation; exhibited by the American bald eagle, Whereas the bald eagle is featured promi- woman from Guam? the Department of the Interior has nently on United States stamps, currency, There was no objection. taken the bald eagle off both the en- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield and coinage; dangered and threatened species list. myself such time as I may consume. Whereas the habitat of bald eagles exists The bald eagle has been a national only in North America; House Resolution 1247, as amended, celebrates the recovery of the Amer- symbol, and its recovery has been a na- Whereas by 1963, the number of nesting tional success story. pairs of bald eagles in the lower 48 States ican bald eagle, the symbol of our had dropped to about 417; country displayed on American cur- H.R. 1247 will not only honor the now Whereas the bald eagle was first listed as rency and government agency seals, in- thriving American bald eagle, it will an endangered species in 1967 under the En- cluding the seal of the United States also encourage support of the United dangered Species Preservation Act, the Fed- Congress. The bald eagle’s recovery is a States Mint bald eagle commemorative eral law that preceded the Endangered Spe- huge success story for the Endangered coin program which has been a success cies Act of 1973; for the past few years. Currently, this Whereas caring and concerned citizens of Species Act and the conservation laws which preceded it. coin program has raised over $5 million the United States in the private and public for the American Eagle Foundation, sectors banded together to save, and help en- In 1963, there were just 487 pairs of sure the protection of, bald eagles; bald eagles in the lower 48 States. which is located in Pigeon Forge, Ten- Whereas in 1995, as a result of the efforts of Today, Mr. Speaker, according to the nessee, which is located in my district. those caring and concerned citizens, bald ea- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there The American Eagle Foundation is a gles were removed from the endangered spe- are an estimated 9,789 breeding pairs. successful not-for-profit organization cies list and upgraded to the less imperiled Effective August 8, 2007, the bald seeking to protect and fully restore the threatened species status under the Endan- eagle was removed from the list of bald eagle population across North gered Species Act of 1973; threatened species under the Endan- America. They also care for the injured Whereas by 2006, the number of bald eagles and orphaned birds that have a strong in the lower 48 States had increased to ap- gered Species Act, demonstrating that proximately 7,000 to 8,000 nesting pairs; it had truly recovered. At the same environmental presence through edu- Whereas the Secretary of the Interior re- time, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act cating thousands of families who visit moved the bald eagle from the Federal list of and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protec- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee each year. threatened species effective August 8, 2007; tion Act continue to provide important Furthermore, this bill encourages Whereas the bald eagle remains subject to protections for this magnificent bird. school systems, businesses, govern- the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and on May I commend our colleague, Congress- mental agencies and conservation 28, 2008, the Secretary of the Interior issued man DAVID DAVIS from Tennessee, for groups to share information on the regulations providing continued protection introducing this resolution encour- American bald eagle that will benefit under the Act popularly known as the Bald children and schools across our Nation. and Golden Eagle Protection Act; aging organizations and government Whereas bald eagles would have been per- agencies working on the conservation Mr. Speaker, I ask that my col- manently extinct if not for vigilant con- of endangered species to collaborate on leagues join me in supporting H.R. 1247, servation efforts of concerned citizens and educational information for use in our a bill I introduced to support the goals strict protection laws; schools. and ideals of June 20 as American

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5423 Eagle Day, and celebrate the recovery North Carolina (Ms. FOXX) for what not even know what is the existing law and restoration of this great bird, the time she may choose to consume. now. bald eagle, the national symbol of the Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I want to What Democrats would have you be- United States. thank my colleague from Utah for lieve is that a lease is a license to Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I re- yielding me time, and I want to con- produce oil and gas. It is not. A lease is serve the balance of my time. gratulate and commend my colleague only the start of a process involving Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I from Tennessee (Mr. DAVIS) for his several steps the government requires yield myself as much time as I may work on this resolution. an oil company to take before it may consume. I want to say that this Capitol Build- even receive permission to drill. I rise also in support of House Reso- ing in which we are working today and Democrats are effectively arguing lution 1247 which endorses the goals which people are visiting every day is that we should pull leases away from and ideals of the American Bald Eagle one of the most wonderful symbols of oil companies before they receive per- Day, or American Eagle Day. our country. The American bald eagle mission to drill. This is like saying we 226 years ago the Second Continental is another symbol of our country, should flunk a first grader on his first Congress decided to use the image of An intangible symbol of our country day of school because he has not yet the American bald eagle on the great has always been our independence and taken his final exam. American, great seal of the United our innovative nature and our freedom. Most of the drilling on Federal leases States. Since that time, the image of The people all around the world know has been for natural gas, and natural this majestic bird has graced our art, this country for what we stand for: gas production was up, way up last our culture, currency, stamps, head- freedom, and the rights of individuals, year, and so was demand. In fact, the bands, and rubber things you put and the ability to solve problems, and industry is producing more gas under around your wrist. It’s been the subject to create ways to solve those problems. these leases, but they cannot keep up of more than 2,500 published books, But right now our way of life is being with the demand because Democrats making the bald eagle the most exten- threatened because of the price of gaso- and their radical environmental allies sively studied bird in North America. line in this country, and there are will not allow the leasing of new areas While we estimate there were nearly many who believe that there are lib- 500,000 bald eagles on this continent, and 97 percent of Federal offshore areas erals in this country who think that are not leased; 94 percent of Federal this species was particularly dev- the United States should be taken astated by a reproductive failure. In re- onshore areas are not leased. down a peg or two, that we shouldn’t be We can solve our energy problems in sponse, Congress did enact the Bald allowed to be the great Nation that we and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and this country, and we do have them, but are; and that one way of doing that is they’ve been brought on by the Demo- the bird was listed on the Endangered by crippling the United States through Species Act. crats who say, We can’t drill our way the inability to be independent with out of this. No, but we can do many b 1500 gas and oil. things, including drilling. That will be But I want to say that that’s not the From its all-time low of 417 nesting a part of what we can do, and we can be direction that Republicans want to be pairs in the continental United States energy independent. But again, many going. Republicans want us to have the during the Lyndon Johnson adminis- of them don’t want us to be. supply that we need for gasoline so tration, extraordinary conservation ef- that we can bring down the price of They don’t want us to have a Nation forts have saved the bald eagle since gasoline. We know that Democrats that soars into greatness like the bald that time, and we have witnessed a sig- have blocked our ability for that. I eagle that we are honoring in this reso- nificant population increase. spoke about that a few minutes ago, lution or continue the great reputation Today, there are just under 10,000 that we have had over the years for breeding pairs in the lower 48, not to and I’m not going to repeat that; but I heard my colleague on the other side of being the greatest Nation on earth. mention to 30,000 bald eagles living in They would like to take us down a peg Alaska. By any objective stand, the re- the aisle talking about the argument that there are many, many leases out or two. I know Republicans and most covery of the bald eagle has been re- Americans don’t agree with them. markable and sadly, one of the few suc- there that oil companies are not uti- lizing. That’s another tactic of the Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield cess stories of the Endangered Species myself such time as I may consume. Act, an act that obviously needs sig- Democrats: blame the oil companies, blame George Bush, blame everybody I would say to the gentlelady that we nificant reform. are here to salute the American eagle. The Secretary of Interior has re- else for the problems that we have. Don’t take the responsibility yourself. I would say that the American eagle moved the bald eagle from the Federal would not be proud that 68 million list of threatened endangered species, But again, unfortunately, we have the facts to back up what we know is true, acres of Federal energy lands are being and there is no question that the bald held hostage by big oil companies. eagle will continue to inspire millions which is Democrats have voted against To respond to the points just made, of America, but it symbolizes funda- our increasing supplies. number one, current law allows lease- mental values of this country: courage, They’re also wrong on the issue of holders 10 years to develop oil or gas. freedom, patriotic spirit, and of energy leases. They talk about ‘‘use it or lose The Responsible Federal Oil and Gas development. it.’’ They want to introduce a bill that Lease Act cuts that down to 5 years. Under the terms of House Resolution has no basis. They’re inventing false While existing leases can be canceled if 1247, the people of the United States arguments again. leaseholders fail to comply with lease are encouraged to observe American ‘‘Use it or lose it’’ is already the law. provisions, laws, or regulations, such Eagle Day on June 20, to provide edu- For Federal onshore competitive oil as public safety and environmental re- cational information about the bald and gas leases, an oil company must quirements, there is no law or regula- eagle and our Nation’s wildlife re- have a producing well by 10 years. This tion that requires diligent development sources. And I also urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote. comes from section 17(e) of the Mineral And I want to commend and com- Leasing Act. Prior to 1992, the lease of Federal oil and gas leases. pliment the author of this resolution, term was 5 years. The Energy Policy The next point. As long as lease- Congressman DAVIS of Tennessee, for Act of 1992, under a Democratically holders pay the required annual rental his effective leadership in proposing controlled House, modified it to 10 fee, the government cannot compel this celebration of American Eagle years. So it’s the Democrats who diligent development of the lease Day. changed the leasing terms. lands. I will reserve the balance of my time. For Federal offshore oil and gas Next. The Responsible Federal Oil Ms. BORDALLO. In that case, Mr. leases, an oil company must produce and Gas Lease Act requires oil and gas Speaker, I also reserve the balance of energy between 5 to 10 years. It’s in the operators to diligently develop Federal my time. government’s discretion. This is from oil and gas leases as is currently re- Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I the Outer Continental Shelf Land Act. quired of coal leaseholders. This re- wish to recognize the gentlelady from So Democrats, House Democrats, do quirement was enacted in the 1970s to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5424 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 prevent coal operators from using Fed- The truth is the vast majority of the And step by step by step, as leases and eral resources for speculation that acreage is either off limits for environ- as drilling has increased, so has the would drive up prices. mental reasons or, in fact, would be price of a gallon of gas, from $1 up to And finally, no such requirement is like West Virginia: 3,400 wells, 5,000 about $4 a gallon today. placed on oil and gas operators. And barrels a day. So reasonable people would step back H.R. 6251 corrects that situation. Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield and ponder the question, whether more And again, I would like to repeat, such time as he may consume to the drilling and more leases results in and I would say to the previous speak- gentleman from Vermont (Mr. WELCH). lower prices. History shows us, in near- er, that we are here this afternoon to Mr. WELCH of Vermont. Mr. Speak- ly the past 20 years, that is simply not salute the American eagle. And I would er, I thank the gentlelady from Guam. the case. say that the American eagle would not It’s probably appropriate that we’re The other proposition is that the be proud that 68 million acres of Fed- here saluting the American eagle be- problem is the Federal Government is eral energy lands are being held hos- cause if there is anything that the denying leases to the oil companies so tage by big oil. American eagle represents, it’s the that they can’t do drilling, and the evi- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of spirit of American independence, dence is overwhelming that’s simply my time. American self-reliance, American not the case. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I strength. This chart, the second chart, shows yield as much time as he may wish to In the debate we’re having today on a pie chart, the whole circle there is consume to the gentleman from Cali- about the resolution honoring the the land that is available for leasing. SSA). fornia (Mr. I American eagle, I don’t want to say the And the green is all that’s available, Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, only on this energy debate has hijacked it because and the red here, or orange, is all that floor would we debate how the Amer- in many ways, it’s quite relevant. The is open for leasing. Pardon me, I have ican eagle would feel. I’m astonished fundamental question that this coun- it the opposite way around. that the Democrats have the hubris to try must decide is whether we will pur- talk in terms of how the American But of all of the land open and avail- sue a path of energy independence or able for leasing, 79 percent is open and eagle would feel. As a matter of fact, continue to go hat-in-hand to the oil- the American eagle and countless thou- subject to exploitation and exploration exporting countries to try to solve our by our oil companies. Only 21 percent sands of birds and other wildlife have problems. been used as an excuse for a generation is off limits. Yet, of this land where the Some of you may remember, which oil companies have leases, 68 million for 68 million acres—yes, they are for me was the most vivid representa- leased, but a lease is in fact not a right acres where they can put metal to the tion of the American energy policy, ground is not under production, and to drill. Just because you have a lease and that was a picture on the front doesn’t waive any environmental con- there’s no effort to put it under produc- page of the New York Times a couple of tion. sideration. So beyond the requirement years ago, when the President of the My friends on the other side have ar- to find out if in fact there is oil on a United States went to Saudi Arabia, gued that the oil companies have to go lease site, you have to go through a and hand-in-hand, as is the custom in through certain environmental per- myriad of hoops before you can begin many of the Middle East countries, mits. I’m not sure you’re right about drilling. President Bush and the Saudi prince that because much of that work has It’s one of the reasons that, in fact, walked in to have a private conversa- been done. Assuming that is the case, offshore drilling has become so pop- tion about America’s oil future. And that’s no different than what has been ular. Not only are there vast resources what was going on there was not the the requirement for the production of out there, but in fact, the fish simply spirit of American independence rep- oil on federally-owned lands. swim away; and in deep water, particu- resented by the eagle. It was a spirit of You know, there are many people larly over 400 meters, it is unlikely to capitulation where our President was who are asking the question as to find an environmentalist at the bottom imploring a foreign country to solve whether the fix is in for the oil compa- claiming that there is some new form the problems that we face. nies, and there’s overwhelming evi- of life that is not only new but highly A confident country, an energetic dence, in fact, that it is. Number one, in danger. country solves its own problems. It the amount of speculation that now is So with all fairness to the Nation’s doesn’t look to others to help solve core to the energy future trading mar- bird, I would say that what we need to those problems. It takes on the chal- kets is inflating the price at the pump, do is stop talking about 68 million lenge. Energy is a big challenge. It inflating the price of home heating acres that are ‘‘available for produc- takes on the challenge of solving those fuel. How did that happen? Thanks to tion’’ when in fact, the vast majority problems on its own. of that has little or no usable oil. And that’s the question that this Congress. And I just want to give you a fairly Congress faces: Will we have the self- In 2002, under the Tom DeLay Con- short statement, Mr. Speaker. It is not confidence of a vigorous and strong Na- gress, the Enron loophole was passed at a question of whether or not you have tion to chart a course of energy inde- the request of that great company, acreage, it’s a question of whether the pendence? Enron, that did so much for America’s acreage is valid acreage for oil. I will energy situation. Enron passed a loop- give you the easiest example. West Vir- b 1515 hole that took away any kind of regu- ginia. It’s a wonderful State. Beautiful Now we’re hearing arguments that latory oversight of the energy future State. They take a tremendous amount the problem we face can be solved by trading market, and it led directly and of coal out of there. They also take a drilling our way out of it, and of immediately to an explosion in specu- quite a bit of oil. As a matter of fact, course, that’s an argument that has lation. Hedge funds, private investors, with 3,400 oil wells, they take a total of been pursued vigorously since we dis- folks who saw that they could make a 5,000 barrels a day out of there. To the covered oil. But you know, there’s lot of money on the misery of a lot of contrary, or to the other example, enormous evidence that allows us to people rushed into the speculation in Alaska, with only 1,700, half as many take a look at this proposition. Will the oil energy markets. Now, that’s wells, take 700,000 barrels a day. more permits to drill, will more drill- wrong. There should be no speculative So it’s not, Mr. Speaker, whether or ing reduce the cost of oil? premium that comes at the expense of not you have millions of acres, it’s do And I have here, Mr. Speaker, a American consumers, folks trying to you have the acreage that you are able chart. The first chart shows the num- heat their home, small businesses try- to drill in, do you have the acreage ber of wells. The number in red here, ing to run a business. that is, in fact, yielding oil. And I can we’ve got the number of leases, and in This Congress has had an opportunity assure you at $134 a barrel, if anyone this blue, we have the number of wells. to get rid of that Enron loophole. was holding acreage that yielded bar- Starting in 1994, there’s been a steady House Democrats have passed legisla- rels that in fact could deliver that kind increase of the number of leases and a tion. It hasn’t gotten through because of revenue, it would be drilled today. steady increase in the wells drilled. of opposition on the other side, either

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5425 in the Senate or the consistent opposi- But what they won’t like is what the The Secretary of the Interior has tion of the President of the United House is pushing, and that’s a policy of power already under law that if he States. energy independence, where we take thinks that is not being used properly, So what can we do if you want to be those tax breaks, we steer them, as they have power to abrogate those con- independent? One, we can get rid of the America has frequently done when tractual leases. However, for each one Enron loophole, wholly and com- there’s something important for the of those, we have 7 to 10 years of regu- pletely. The second thing is that the American people, and it’s taken a push lation, litigation and study, including energy companies, in fact, are hording from our taxpayers to get us over that an Interior appropriations bill that will leases, and that’s a fact. There’s an initial technological hump, and that’s be coming to the floor either this week enormous push on this Congress to having those tax breaks go as incen- or next week, which expands those re- open up ANWR, and the argument is tives to alternative energy sources, strictions and expands the moratorium made and it has a surface appeal that if wind and solar, biofuels. that we have. you open up ANWR, then it is going to You know, if we could step back a The bottom line is 30 years ago this mean a reduction in prices because the minute and take a look at some of our country was producing about 11 million supply will go up and demand will go friends in Europe and the leadership barrels of oil a day, and our need was down. they’re taking because of self-interest, 17. We had to import. Today, we A couple of problems with it. First a recognition in Portugal that invest- produce about 8 million barrels of oil a and foremost, the oil companies have ing in alternative fuel is a way to day, and our need is 20, which means leases on 68 million acres. They’re not strengthen the economy, or Germany, we have to import more. exploiting them. Why? We don’t know investing in solar, Germany has less We have a 22 percent reduction in exactly why because they won’t say. sun than Vermont. And let me tell you, production in this United States, and They will come in, raise their hand, I’m here to tell you that Vermont we’re the only country in this con- take an oath, acknowledge that they’re doesn’t have as much sun as we need tinent that does that. Mexico has in- paying their executives 10s of millions and I want. They have less sun than we creased. Canada has increased. We have of dollars, acknowledging that when do, but they are leading in solar tech- decreased our energy production, even one executive was retiring he was given nology. though our needs have come up. a $400 million payday to say good-bye, So, the bottom line question is really The chart you were looking at is but they won’t tell us why they’re not very simple. Do we want leadership, as somewhat skewed because it deals with putting drill bits to earth to exploit best exemplified by President Bush only the offshore, and there’s a dif- the leases they have. when he was with the Saudi prince, im- ference to land that’s documented and But you don’t have to be a rocket sci- ploring the Saudi prince to rescue us open and not opened to lease. The bot- entist to figure out what the motive from ourselves, or do we want leader- tom line is, offshore, there’s 1.7 billion may be. If they keep that lease and the ship where we say we will take care of acres of area that we could do to oil or the natural gas sits in the ground our own future, that particularly in produce energy. We are doing 68 mil- and it goes from $28 to $48 to $68 to $134 face of what I think are unfounded ar- lion acres. That leaves 1.6 billion acres a barrel, that’s sound money for those guments, that we can drill our way out, still undiscoverable, locked away, not companies, and it will fatten the al- that Congress or the American govern- usable. That’s 85 percent of everything ready extraordinary profits, $125 billion ment is an impediment to drilling that we have. in profits for the oil companies last is available immediately for our oil The gentleman from Vermont was year, the big five oil companies. and natural gas companies, and that correct in which he said speculation is Second, oil companies push hard to there isn’t supply that we can achieve indeed driving the cost of oil, but the bring online as much Federal land for through efficiency and alternative en- speculation is driving the cost of oil be- leases as possible because the Big Oil ergy. cause the speculators believe this coun- Mr. BISHOP of Utah. May I inquire companies have been extremely suc- try will not continue to produce, that how much time is left for the bald cessful in crowding out some of our we will decline in our production. And small, independent producers, and in eagle to discover oil? The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- until we have a policy that says we are fact, my view is that’s a detriment and going to increase our production, spec- tleman from Utah has 71⁄2 minutes. The a reason why this 68 million acres gentlewoman from Guam has 4 min- ulation will continue to increase, and aren’t exploited. If you had smaller, utes. those costs will increase. more independent, hungry, energetic Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Let me yield What this Congress has to have is a companies that had an opportunity to myself as much time as I will go comprehensive policy that says we will make good money at $134 a barrel, and through here. do more for conservation and we will they owned those leases, they’d be We’re now looking at a whole bunch do more for production of all sources of drilling. of issues that deal from an Endangered energy, alternative as well as carbon- So what you have is a situation Species Act that has few examples of based, and we will come up with new where the oil companies are doing success—this one happens to be one of and innovative ways of delivering that quite fine, they really are, and the sta- those few—to an energy policy that we energy. And until this Congress actu- tus quo serves them very well. What have developed over the last 40 years ally sits down and says we will have a may not serve them so well is the self- which can only be described as dis- comprehensive energy policy, all the confident Congress, the self-confident combobulated. data, all the instructions, everything President saying, you know what, It seems there are a group of people else we’re talking about is nothing we’re not going to play that game any- who control this floor whose past pol- more than useless rhetoric. more. There are other ways. icy towards energy development and Interesting facts, totally irrelevant We’re going to take away the tax energy independence was to blame Big to the needs of the time. The needs are breaks, about $13 billion that American Oil, and now that prices of gasoline are people are suffering now, and we need taxpayers are turning over to our oil at $4 a gallon, $1.75 more than when to do something to help those people companies, and that, with all due re- this Congress started, it seems now we who are suffering. And we have to have spect, is just an astonishing public pol- try to have an expanded policy which is a comprehensive policy which does in- icy. Our folks are paying over $4 a gal- to blame Big Oil and allow lawyers to clude increases of production of all lon for gas. In my home State of sue OPEC to give us more oil. sources of energy. Vermont, we’re paying over $4.25, $4.40 Simply, it does not come back to the The gentlelady from Guam will be for a gallon of home heating fuel, and reality of the situation that we have happy to know, I’m the last speaker on taxpayers are paying the oil companies locked resources within this country, this bill. about $13 billion in tax breaks. That’s both onshore and in this country, that I yield back the balance of my time. your money and mine. It’s hard to see can produce our own energy independ- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, in how that’s justified, but the oil compa- ence. closing, I want to say, as Mr. WELCH nies are quite happy to take that tax- We have laws that already say if you stated, ANWR, everybody keeps talk- payer subsidy. have a lease, you have 5 to 10 years. ing about ANWR. But if you opened

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5426 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 ANWR today, you would not get any plenishment system, which today is one of trict and its employees for their sound energy production tomorrow. You the most sophisticated and efficient recharge financial management and innovative wouldn’t get any for a decade or more. systems in the country; groundwater management, water qual- Whereas in 1972, OCWD built the inter- Whereas right now, the oil companies nationally-acclaimed Water Factory 21, the ity, water efficiency, and environ- have 68 million acres of land available Nation’s first and largest wastewater purifi- mental programs upon the occasion of for development, and they are not ex- cation plant, to use reverse osmosis to purify its 75th anniversary. ploiting them. sewer water for injection along the coast to During its 75-year history, the Or- prevent seawater intrusion; ange County Water District has been a b 1530 Whereas in 1989, OCWD published a com- model for implementing groundwater I don’t care how much rhetoric goes prehensive Groundwater Management Plan recharge projects. Starting in 1950, the on here today, there is still the 68 bil- for increasing water supplies, cleaning up Water District developed the region’s contamination, and improving basin man- lion acres of land available for develop- first sustained artificial recharge re- ment. They have access to enough agement, which became the model for groundwater management across the State; plenishment system. Earlier this year, acreage to produce six times the Whereas in 1991, OCWD’s Green Acres the District opened its groundwater re- amount of energy that we might get Project became operational as the Nation’s plenishment system, the world’s larg- from ANWR. So again, I’ll repeat over first landscape irrigation wastewater treat- est sewer water purification project. and over, ‘‘use it or lose it.’’ ment plant that provided water to local This project, Mr. Speaker, currently is I urge support for House Resolution parks, golf courses, highway medians, and providing a new supply of high-quality industry, freeing high quality drinking water 1247. water to Orange County, while making Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance for more valued uses in the arid Orange County; the region less dependent on imported of my time. Whereas in 2008, OCWD began operating water from Bay Delta and the Colorado The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the Groundwater Replenishment System, the River. question is on the motion offered by world’s largest sewer water purification I wish to commend my colleague the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. project of its kind built to protect ground- from California, Congresswoman LO- BORDALLO) that the House suspend the water from seawater intrusion, delaying the RETTA SANCHEZ, for sponsoring this rules and agree to the resolution, H. need for another ocean outfall and making very important resolution before us Res. 1247, as amended. the region less dependent on imported water from the San Joaquin-Delta and Colorado today, and I ask my colleagues to sup- The question was taken. Rivers by providing a new supply of high port its passage. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the quality, locally controlled and energy effi- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being cient water to Orange County; my time. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Whereas OCWD has one of the best water Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, on that I de- quality monitoring and protection programs, yield myself such time as I may con- mand the yeas and nays. testing for twice the amount of chemicals resume. The yeas and nays were ordered. quired by law, maintaining a proactive phi- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this losophy of looking for emerging contami- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- nants, and developing southern California’s resolution that was introduced by our ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the largest constructed wetlands to naturally colleagues from southern California. Chair’s prior announcement, further purify Santa Ana River flows into Orange The Orange County Water District proceedings on this motion will be County; has experienced rapid changes since it postponed. Whereas OCWD has one of the highest fi- was created in 1933. It once relied on nancial ratings in the State, won every f pumping ground water for agriculture, major water award, begun eliminating the now it uses a combination of sources, COMMENDING THE ORANGE COUN- evasive arundo donax through its environ- including imported and recycled water, mental programs, and developed experi- TY WATER DISTRICT ON ITS for its urban needs. Due to environ- 75TH ANNIVERSARY mental wetlands to clean up dairy wastewater; and mental litigation, the Orange County Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move Whereas OCWD has also developed basin- Water District will more than likely to suspend the rules and agree to the cleaning vehicles to enhance recharge effi- experience significant imported water resolution (H. Res. 1199) commending ciency, sponsored the Nation’s largest Chil- cutbacks, leading to higher water costs the Orange County Water District and dren’s Water Education Festival, and that will be passed on to the con- its employees for their sound financial brought back the least Bell’s vireo, an en- sumers. management and innovative ground- dangered California songbird: Now, there- These same water reductions are fore, be it water management, water quality, Resolved, That the House of Representa- forcing family farmers to fallow water efficiency, and environmental tives commends the Orange County Water ground and let their crops die. The sit- programs, on its 75th anniversary. District and its employees for their sound fi- uation is so dire the Governor of Cali- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- nancial management and innovative ground- fornia, Governor Schwarzenegger, last tion. water management, water quality, water ef- week declared parts of California under The text of the resolution is as fol- ficiency, and environmental programs, on its a state of emergency. These same fam- 75th anniversary. lows: ily farmers are experiencing higher The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- costs of living caused by the high cost H. RES. 1199 ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from of water as well as the high cost of gas- Whereas the Orange County Water District Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and the gen- (OCWD) is celebrating its 75th anniversary of oline prices. It is almost a perfect tleman from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each providing high quality groundwater to mil- storm, and yet we have done nothing to will control 20 minutes. lions of residents in northern and central Or- help them to reduce those gas and oil ange County, California, and upon this occa- The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Guam. prices. sion, deserves special recognition; This resolution is a nice reward to GENERAL LEAVE Whereas OCWD was created in 1933 by the Orange County Water District for its California State Legislature’s passage of Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask Senator N.T. Edwards’ SB 1201, which was unanimous consent that all Members hard work over the years, but Con- signed into law on June 14, 1933; may have 5 legislative days in which to gress’ time actually should be spent in Whereas OCWD was empowered to manage revise and extend their remarks and in- devising energy solutions because, once Orange County’s large groundwater basin, to clude extraneous material on the reso- again, real people are suffering and protect the quality and quantity of the lution under consideration. real needs are there. groundwater, to conserve and manage The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of groundwater supplies, to protect Orange my time. County’s water rights to the flow of the objection to the request of the gentlewoman from Guam? Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield Santa Ana River, and to ensure that the to the gentlelady from California (Ms. water needs of the people of Orange County, There was no objection. who depend on the groundwater basin, are Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield LORETTA SANCHEZ) such time as she provided for; myself such time as I may consume. may consume. Whereas in the 1950s, OCWD initiated the House Resolution 1199 commends the Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- region’s first sustained artificial recharge re- Orange County, California Water Dis- fornia. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased today

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5427 the House of Representatives is consid- the Public Water Agency of the Year in is presently unavailable; millions, ering House Resolution 1199, which 2008. countless millions of acres unavailable. honors the 75th anniversary of the Or- Throughout its 75-year history, the And last, Mr. Speaker, I would hope ange County Water District. Orange County Water District has that when people are talking about the As a sponsor of this legislation, I proven that it is a leader in identifying acreage that isn’t being used today, the would like to thank the Committee on and creating new and existing options 68 million acres that’s not currently in Natural Resources, especially the gen- to meet the water needs of California, use, and, you know, we can look at tleman from West Virginia, Chairman of our Nation, and of the world. Along whether some of it just recently was RAHALL, for his assistance in bringing with the entire county delegation, I granted and it’s in exploration, wheth- this resolution to the floor, and my hope that all of my colleagues will vote er it’s in environmental, we can break good friend from Guam for managing for this resolution today. it down. But the amazing thing is, out this resolution. I also would like to Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I yield such of only 41 million acres that is out on thank the rest of my colleagues from time as he may consume to another of lease of any exploration or production, Orange County, all of whom are origi- the good representatives of southern we’re getting a huge amount of oil off nal cosponsors of this resolution. California, the gentleman from Cali- Federal lands. Just think if we, in fact, You see, this Water District, the Or- fornia (Mr. ISSA). used those 68 million acres over the ange County Water District, began its Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I join with next few years and opened up some operations in 1933 when then California the gentlelady from Orange County in major portion of 2.351 billion acres, Governor James Rolph, Jr. signed it support of this resolution. But this res- that’s 2,351 million acres that are not into existence on June 14. At that olution brings to mind one of the chal- available today. time, the Water District covered more lenges we have in California. You see, So when people talk about the 68 mil- than 163,000 acres and was intended to in California, we don’t allow coal to be lion that are, they should also talk serve about 60,000 people primarily in used to make electricity. In California, about the 41 million that are under use agriculture. That is the beginning of we don’t allow nuclear; we banned it today that are generating oil and nat- Orange County. But today, the Orange for more than 30 years, no new nuclear. ural gas, the many millions that are County Water District covers well over As a matter of fact, in California, with coming in from leases that are out that 200,000 acres, and it serves a population the exception of some geothermal that are just now beginning to bear fruit, of more than 2.3 million people. we can’t seem to find a way to bring and of course the 2,351 million acres As it has grown, the Water District power lines from where it is to where that are presently closed, a lot of has stayed on top of its game at the we want it, all of our new power comes which is off the California and the gulf forefront of efforts with respect to from natural gas. coast 50 miles out that no one would water supply and the efficient distribu- And in California, we are not looking see, that, in fact, could be drilled in tion of that through Orange County. for natural gas. As a matter of fact, we deep water safely, but of course is not And the best example of that, of don’t allow any leasing, Federally or available today. course, is what we just opened in Janu- State, off of our coastline. Literally a Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I was ary of this year, and that is our thousand miles of coastline out 200 listening intently to the previous groundwater replenishment system. miles is off limits to natural gas. We speaker, and I’m wondering if he is sug- The replenishment system is on the can’t take clean natural gas from our gesting that we drill in national parks cutting edge of water reuse technology. own shores in California. As a result, and military bases—when you men- It will purify 70 million gallons of water projects are in danger. tioned all the acreage that’s available. water a day to provide clean drinking The gentlelady from California right- Mr. ISSA. If the gentlelady will water for more than 100,000 Orange fully so did speak about groundwater yield. County families. replenishment, which she has in her Ms. BORDALLO. I will yield. This system is the premier ground- district and I have in my district. We Mr. ISSA. What I was talking about water replenishment project in the also have desalinization in both of our is a portion of the 2.351 billion acres. world. And Orange County is often vis- districts. And guess what? Desaliniza- Obviously, all of us would want to ited by other people from our country tion is another term for electricity-to- make sure that certain areas were not and from dignitaries from around the water. drilled in, but of course most of this world, scientists from around the In order to meet our water needs, acreage we have no idea what is there. world, engineers from around the whether it’s pumping from the north to As you probably know, there are world, who want to come and see what the south, pumping for replenishment 3,400-plus oil wells throughout West we are doing. And yes, basically what or, in fact, desalinization, we need en- Virginia. We have overdrilled West Vir- we’re doing is that we dispose of the ergy. That energy is electricity. That ginia and Oklahoma. We haven’t put a water by flushing the toilet, send it electricity comes from natural gas. new drill even for exploration off the into a tertiary process, clean it purer That natural gas comes from unstable California coast in decades, not even to than the water you would find in the parts of the world in which it must be find out how much natural gas is out ground. We put it into the ground, and hauled in by liquefication because we there. And that, in fact, from 50 to 200 about 3 or 4 years later the same water don’t meet our own natural gas needs. miles, is an economic zone created by is being used through your house once Republicans here in the House sup- Ronald Reagan that belongs to the again. This makes it self-contained. It port opening up the opportunity to get United States that could be explored. means that in a desert like southern natural gas, at least allow some explo- Ms. BORDALLO. So the 2 billion California, we are not importing water ration for natural gas 50 miles off the acres that you’re referring to does ex- for our usage, we’re actually using our California coast. That’s not difficult. clude national parks and all of the own water over and over, and this is And the leaks, in fact, would be meth- military bases? the wave of the future. As I said, so ane 50 miles offshore. You wouldn’t see Mr. ISSA. Well, Madam Chair, of many from around the world, from it, you wouldn’t hear it, and it’s non- course it excludes it. But when we look Israel and from other places, are com- polluting. And yet, as of today, the at only 3 percent and 6 percent that are ing to take a look at what we have Democrats continue to block that. under oil leases, we have to look at all done. And even just recently, the We need to open up. We’ve been talk- the available BLM land. Just, for ex- Mayor of Los Angeles said he would ing about oil, but we need to talk ample, though, there are 700 million like to try to make a system like that about natural gas. California needs acres that are presently held by the work in the County of Los Angeles. clean natural gas. It’s off our shoreline, BLM. By definition, the Bureau of So the Orange County Water Dis- it’s close to us today. And I would ab- Land Management holds that for pro- trict’s vision and initiative in estab- solutely urge my colleagues, when ductive use. So that would be an exam- lishing this system is the reason that they’re looking at water in California, ple where there are no parks on BLM it received the 2008 Clair A. Hill Award look at water as electricity and elec- land, there are no national monuments from the Association of California tricity as natural gas, and natural gas or military bases on those 700 million Water Agencies, and it was also named is something we have off our shore that acres alone.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5428 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 Ms. BORDALLO. Well, Mr. Speaker, I Orange County Water District in its dedication H.R. 5710 was just requesting that the gentleman to excellence in public service is a shining ex- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- clarify. I want to be sure that his num- ample of government that works. resentatives of the United States of America in bers are accurate. Mr. Speaker, I would like to express our Congress assembled, I reserve the balance of my time. deep appreciation and gratitude to Orange SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California. Mr. County Water District and congratulate them This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Eastern New Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. on their 75 years. Mexico Rural Water System Authorization 1199, a resolution congratulating the Orange Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support Act’’. County Water District on its 75th anniversary. of H. Res. 1199, Commending the Orange SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. The Orange County Water District and its em- County Water District and its employees for In this Act: ployees have effectively delivered innovative their sound financial management and innova- (1) AUTHORITY.—The term ‘‘Authority’’ groundwater management, water quality, tive groundwater management, water quality, means the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water water efficiency, and environmental programs water efficiency, and environmental programs, Authority, an entity formed under State law which will reduce our region’s dependence on on its 75th annIversary. for the purposes of planning, financing, de- imported water. As a cosponsor of this resolution and a rep- veloping, and operating the System. We all know that with increased demand, resentative from Orange County, I know of the (2) ENGINEERING REPORT.—The term ‘‘engi- decreased availability of imported water, and neering report’’ means the report entitled valuable service the OCWD has provided to ‘‘Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System higher water quality requirements, future water Orange County. The recent drought in Cali- Preliminary Engineering Report’’ and dated supplies will become even more limited and fornia has reminded many of us how imperiled October 2006. expensive. If we want to sustain southern Cali- our water supply is. Water demand in Cali- (3) PLAN.—The term ‘‘plan’’ means the op- fornia’s economic growth and provide for a fornia is set to increase by 16 percent be- eration, maintenance, and replacement plan rapidly increasing population, we must ensure tween 2010 and 2030, but fortunately, the required by section 4(b). efficient and reliable access to water re- OCWD is doing much to meet the counties (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ sources and pursue a modernized sanitation needs. means the Secretary of the Interior. infrastructure. The Orange County Water Dis- (5) STATE.—The term ‘‘State’’ means the The new groundwater replenishment system State of New Mexico. trict recognized that we needed a reliable is one of the world’s most high-tech, as it pro- (6) SYSTEM.— source of quality water and has pursued multi- duces 70 million gallons per day, enough for (A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘‘System’’ pronged strategies for capturing and recycling half a million people. Innovative thinking such means the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water water that would otherwise flow downstream as this has greatly helped our community, and System, a water delivery project designed to to the ocean. will do much to meet growing demand. deliver approximately 16,500 acre-feet of The first initiative involves a series of agree- On its 75th anniversary, I’d like to again water per year from the Ute Reservoir to the ments between the Orange County Water Dis- congratulate the OCWD and its employees for cities of Clovis, Elida, Grady, Melrose, Portales, and Texico and other locations in trict, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and its valuable contributions to Orange County. the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to allow the Curry, Roosevelt, and Quay Counties in the Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I State. District to conserve water behind Prado Dam. yield back the balance of my time. (B) INCLUSIONS.—The term ‘‘System’’ in- This water, which would otherwise flow down- Ms. BORDALLO. I urge my col- cludes the major components and associated stream to the ocean, is captured to recharge leagues to support this bill. infrastructure identified as the ‘‘Best Tech- the local aquifer. In addition, the Orange Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance nical Alternative’’ in the engineering report. County Water District has partnered with the of my time. (7) UTE RESERVOIR.—The term ‘‘Ute Res- Orange County Sanitation District in the devel- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ervoir’’ means the impoundment of water created in 1962 by the construction of the Ute opment of the groundwater replenishment sys- question is on the motion offered by tem. This system will take highly treated sewer Dam on the Canadian River, located approxi- the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. mately 32 miles upstream of the border be- water and treat it above and beyond existing BORDALLO) that the House suspend the tween New Mexico and Texas. drinking water standards by undergoing an ad- rules and agree to the resolution, H. SEC. 3. EASTERN NEW MEXICO RURAL WATER vanced purification process that includes two Res. 1199. SYSTEM. membrane filtration and treatment by ultra- The question was taken. (a) FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.— violet light and hydrogen peroxide. Once puri- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may pro- fied, the water will be sent to groundwater re- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being vide financial and technical assistance to the charge facilities or injection wells. This project in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Authority to assist in planning, designing, is a model of self-reliance and should be rep- Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I object to conducting related preconstruction activi- licated throughout water districts around the vote on the ground that a quorum ties for, and constructing the System. (2) USE.— southern California. is not present and make the point of (A) IN GENERAL.—Any financial assistance The Orange County Water District is work- order that a quorum is not present. ing to ensure water reliability for generations provided under paragraph (1) shall be obli- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- gated and expended only in accordance with to come. This is a comforting thought to busi- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the a cooperative agreement entered into under nesses as well as residents interested in mov- Chair’s prior announcement, further section 5(a)(2). ing to Orange County. Their efforts will allow proceedings on this motion will be (B) LIMITATIONS.—Financial assistance pro- our economy to grow without being restrained postponed. vided under paragraph (1) shall not be used— by potential water shortages. The point of no quorum is considered (i) for any activity that is inconsistent with constructing the System; or I congratulate the Orange County Water withdrawn. District for their 75 years of service to the re- (ii) to plan or construct facilities used to gion and I am proud of the Federal, State, and f supply irrigation water for irrigated agricultural purposes. local agencies that have worked together to b 1545 (b) COST-SHARING REQUIREMENT.— serve the community and address the region’s EASTERN NEW MEXICO RURAL (1) IN GENERAL.—The Federal share of the growing water needs. total cost of any activity or construction Mr. CAMPBELL of California. Mr. Speaker, WATER SYSTEM AUTHORIZATION ACT carried out using amounts made available I rise to congratulate the Orange County under this Act shall be not more than 75 per- Water District for its 75 years of exemplary Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move cent of the total cost of the System. service to the communities of Orange County, to suspend the rules and pass the bill (2) SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT COSTS.—For pur- California. (H.R. 5710) to authorize the Secretary poses of paragraph (1), the total cost of the Orange County Water District and its em- of the Interior to provide financial as- System shall include any costs incurred by ployees deserve special recognition for their sistance to the Eastern New Mexico the Authority or the State on or after Octo- Rural Water Authority for the plan- ber 1, 2003, for the development of the Sys- exceptional effectiveness in protecting and tem. providing an essential resource for 2.3 million ning, design, and construction of the (c) LIMITATION.—No amounts made avail- customers in Orange County. They are to be Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Sys- able under this Act may be used for the con- acknowledged especially for the quality and tem, and for other purposes. struction of the System until— efficiency of their systems and programs that The Clerk read the title of the bill. (1) a plan is developed under section 4(b); are among the most innovative in the industry. The text of the bill is as follows: and

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(2) the Secretary and the Authority have (c) NONREIMBURSABLE AMOUNTS.—Amounts Chairman RAHALL and Chairwoman complied with any requirements of the Na- made available to the Authority in accord- NAPOLITANO for their efforts in bringing this tional Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 ance with the cost-sharing requirement legislation to the floor today. This important bill U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) applicable to the System. under section 3(b) shall be nonreimbursable will authorize the Bureau of Reclamation to (d) TITLE TO PROJECT WORKS.—Title to the and nonreturnable to the United States. infrastructure of the System shall be held by (d) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.—At the end of help communities in eastern New Mexico de- the Authority or as may otherwise be speci- each fiscal year, any unexpended funds ap- velop the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water fied under State law. propriated pursuant to this Act shall be re- System (ENMRWS). SEC. 4. OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND RE- tained for use in future fiscal years con- There has long been a recognized need for PLACEMENT COSTS. sistent with this Act. a reliable and safe supply of potable water for (a) IN GENERAL.—The Authority shall be The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- eastern New Mexico. After years of drought responsible for the annual operation, maintenance, and replacement costs associated ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from and ever-increasing community growth, this with the System. Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and gentleman water supply project is now absolutely critical (b) OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, AND RE- from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each will con- for the continued economic well-being of Curry PLACEMENT PLAN.—The Authority, in control 20 minutes. and Roosevelt counties in eastern New Mex- sultation with the Secretary, shall develop The Chair recognizes the gentle- ico. an operation, maintenance, and replacement woman from Guam. These eastern New Mexico counties are plan that establishes the rates and fees for GENERAL LEAVE built on a strong agricultural heritage, and the beneficiaries of the System in the amount necessary to ensure that the System is prop- Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask communities are known for their great sense erly maintained and capable of delivering ap- unanimous consent that all Members of unity and mutual support. With the threat of proximately 16,500 acre-feet of water per may have 5 legislative days in which to extreme water scarcity, eastern New Mexico year. revise and extend their remarks and in- counties are rallying to ensure community sur- SEC. 5. ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS. clude extraneous material on the bill vival. (a) COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS.— under consideration. The Ogallala aquifer currently provides 100 (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary may enter The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there percent of the municipal and industrial water into any contract, grant, cooperative agree- objection to the request of the gentle- supplies and the vast majority of agricultural ment, or other agreement that is necessary water for eastern New Mexico. However, both to carry out this Act. woman from Guam? (2) COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT FOR PROVISION There was no objection. the quantity and quality of this groundwater re- OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.— Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield serve have declined severely in recent dec- (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall enter myself such time as I may consume. ades. It is estimated that this groundwater into a cooperative agreement with the Au- H.R. 5710, as introduced by our col- supply will not be able to sustain current use thority to provide financial assistance and league, Congressman TOM UDALL of into the next decade, and may be functionally any other assistance requested by the Au- New Mexico, would direct the Sec- depleted within 25 years. thority for planning, design, related retary of the Interior, acting through For 45 years, water users in eastern New preconstruction activities, and construction the Bureau of Reclamation, to assist in Mexico have worked to develop an alternative of the System. the design and the construction of the source of municipal water that will be sustain- (B) REQUIREMENTS.—The cooperative agreement entered into under subparagraph Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Sys- able into the future. The Eastern New Mexico (A) shall, at a minimum, specify the respon- tem. The project would provide a sus- Rural Water Supply Authority, consisting of sibilities of the Secretary and the Authority tainable water supply to nine commu- nine communities in the Curry and Roosevelt with respect to— nities and an Air Force base. This bill counties of eastern New Mexico, was formed (i) ensuring that the cost-share require- has received bipartisan support. in 2001 to oversee the development of a rural ments established by section 3(b) are met; I ask my colleagues to support its water system. This Authority has expeditiously (ii) completing the planning and final de- passage. and effectively finalized the studies and plan- sign of the System; I reserve the balance of my time. (iii) any environmental and cultural re- ning necessary to move forward with this source compliance activities required for the Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I yield myself project. System; and such time as I may consume. The Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Sys- (iv) the construction of the System. The gentlelady from Guam has, once tem Authorization Act is the result, and it has (b) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—At the request again, in her role as the bill manager, come after years of research, years of con- of the Authority, the Secretary may provide adequately explained the legislation sultation, years of planning, and years of ne- to the Authority any technical assistance that has been introduced by our col- gotiation. The legislation is strongly supported that is necessary to assist the Authority in league from New Mexico, TOM UDALL. by the communities involved, by the state of planning, designing, constructing, and oper- And it is also supported by our com- ating the System. New Mexico, and by the entire New Mexico (c) BIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT.—The Sec- mittee colleague, the ranking member Delegation. H.R. 5710 passed by unanimous retary shall consult with the New Mexico on the Energy and Mineral Resources consent in both subcommittee and full com- Interstate Stream Commission and the Au- subcommittee, himself an expert on en- mittee, and it is my hope that the bill will con- thority in preparing any biological assess- ergy, STEVE PEARCE. Both of them are tinue to garner strong bipartisan support on ment under the Endangered Species Act of trying to seek to provide alternative the floor today and in the Senate as it moves 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) that may be re- water sources to communities in east- to that chamber. quired for planning and constructing the ern New Mexico. I applaud the efforts of the Eastern New System. (d) EFFECT.—Nothing in this Act–— One thing that is not contemplated Mexico Rural Water Supply Authority, of the (1) affects or preempts— in this bill is, of course, how much en- state of New Mexico, and of the counties and (A) State water law; or ergy it will take to pump the water cities involved in this project. They have (B) an interstate compact relating to the over almost 100 miles of pipeline. worked expeditiously and tirelessly to finalize allocation of water; or Water pumping costs for this project the studies and planning necessary to move (2) confers on any non-Federal entity the will require massive amounts of elec- forward with this project. ability to exercise any Federal rights to— tricity. It is unclear on how we, as a The establishment of the Eastern New Mex- (A) the water of a stream; or country, are planning on generating (B) any groundwater resource. ico Rural Water System is essential to the that electricity in the future. But since SEC. 6. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. socio-economic survival of communities in (a) IN GENERAL.—In accordance with the commitments have been made to work eastern New Mexico. While vital to New Mex- adjustment carried out under subsection (b), on specific committee report language ico, H.R. 5710 is just one piece in the larger there is authorized to be appropriated to the involving land owner rights and mili- puzzle of water resources in the arid west and Secretary to carry out this Act an amount tary contributions to this particular across the nation. As our nation is confronted not greater than $327,000,000. water project, we certainly have no ob- with changing and extreme weather, states (b) ADJUSTMENT.—The amount made avail- jection at this point to this bill and and communities must work to address water able under subsection (a) shall be adjusted to reflect changes in construction costs occur- would also urge a favorable vote. scarcity with conservation efforts, with new ring after January 1, 2007, as indicated by en- Mr. UDALL of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, technology, and with negotiation of water gineering cost indices applicable to the types today I rise in support of H.R. 5710, The East- rights. of construction necessary to carry out this ern New Mexico Rural Water System Author- H.R. 5710 builds on the ongoing efforts of Act. ization Act. In so doing, I would like to thank the 8 cities and counties participating in the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5430 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 project. These communities are working to es- The point of no quorum is considered revise and extend their remarks and in- tablish innovative approaches to conserving withdrawn. clude extraneous material on the bill water both agriculturally and domestically. f under consideration. They are part of a movement in the west to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there LEADVILLE MINE DRAINAGE TUN- recognize the limitations of this precious re- objection to the request of the gentle- NEL REMEDIATION ACT OF 2008 source and to work within these limitations to woman from Guam? build strong communities. Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I move There was no objection. The Eastern New Mexico Rural Water Sys- to suspend the rules and pass the bill Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield tem Authorization Act is key to the survival of (H.R. 5511) to direct the Secretary of myself such time as I may consume. numerous New Mexico communities, and is the Interior, acting through the Bu- H.R. 5511 was introduced by our col- part of a wider national approach to sound reau of Reclamation, to remedy prob- league, Congressman DOUG LAMBORN of water management. We cannot stand by and lems caused by a collapsed drainage Colorado. The bill, as amended, would watch vibrant communities dissolve into west- tunnel in Leadville, Colorado, and for direct the Bureau of Reclamation to ern ghost towns, especially when solutions other purposes, as amended. remedy problems caused by collapses exist. I encourage my colleagues to support The Clerk read the title of the bill. in the Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel. H.R. 5710 and help provide a positive, long- The text of the bill is as follows: Due to structural deterioration, con- term solution to a pressing water need in the H.R. 5511 taminated water has backed up in the tunnel posing a grave public health and rural West. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, resentatives of the United States of America in environmental threat. I rise to speak in favor of passage of H.R. Congress assembled, This bill has received bipartisan sup- 5710, the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water SECTION 1. LEADVILLE MINE DRAINAGE TUNNEL port. We have no objection to this non- System Authorization Act, which will establish REMEDIATION. controversial bill. And I ask my col- the Ute water pipeline. This bill authorizes (a) SHORT TITLE.—This section may be leagues to support its passage. construction of a pipeline from the Ute Res- cited as the ‘‘Leadville Mine Drainage Tun- I reserve the balance of my time. nel Remediation Act of 2008’’. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Mr. Speaker, I ervoir that will carry water to several commu- (b) TUNNEL REMEDIATION.—The Reclama- yield myself such time as I may con- nities in Curry and Roosevelt counties. tion Projects Authorization and Adjustment Under the proposed bill, the U.S. Bureau of sume. Act of 1992 (Public Law 102–575) is amended Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support Reclamation is authorized to spend up to $327 as follows: for the bill that was introduced by our million to assist the Eastern New Mexico Rural (1) By striking section 705. committee colleague, DOUG LAMBORN of Water Authority (ENMRWA) in the construc- (2) In section 708(a)— Colorado. The Leadville Mine Tunnel tion of the pipeline. The State of New Mexico (A) by striking ‘‘(a)’’ and inserting ‘‘(a)(1)’’; (B) by striking ‘‘The Secretary shall have’’ was supposed to be used for a nearby and the ENMRWA, which represents commu- Federal water project but has ended up nities in eastern New Mexico that will benefit and inserting ‘‘Except as provided by paragraph (2), the Secretary shall have’’; and becoming a public danger. It has been from the pipeline, will contribute 25 percent of (C) by adding at the end the following: on the verge of bursting and sending the cost of construction. ENMRWA will oper- ‘‘(2) The Secretary shall participate in the what is presumed to be chemical-laden ate and maintain the pipeline. implementation of the operable unit 6 rem- water toward local homes. The Bureau Construction of this pipeline is essential as edy for the California Gulch Superfund Site, of Reclamation owns the tunnel and communities in eastern New Mexico try to as such remedy is defined in the Environ- must be responsible for resolving the meet future demand for water. It will provide a mental Protection Agency’s 2003 Record of situation. And that is what this bipar- critical supply of water to growing communities Decision for such operable unit, by— ‘‘(A) treating water behind any blockage or tisan bill accomplishes. and create certainty in these communities that The Leadville Mine, addressed in this safe, clean water will continue to be available bulkhead in the Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel, including surface water diverted bill, was used during World War II and long into the future. into the Tunnel workings as part of the the Korean War to supply critical met- The Ute Reservoir was built on the Cana- remedy; and als to help our Nation. Years ago, our dian River in 1959 as a sustainable water sup- ‘‘(B) managing and maintaining the mine Nation smartly invested in mining our ply for eastern New Mexico. It has been nearly pool behind such blockage or bulkhead at a natural resources. Yet today, the min- 40 years since Congress authorized the study level that precludes surface runoff and re- ing industry is under attack by some of a pipeline to transfer water to communities leases and minimizes the potential for tunnel failure due to excessive water pressure in the and by many. And the net effect, of in eastern New Mexico, but only in the past course, has been to outsource U.S. jobs few years have the affected New Mexico com- tunnel.’’. (3) In section 708(f), by striking ‘‘and 708’’ to countries that have commonsense munities began planning for the pipeline. and inserting ‘‘, 708, and 709’’. environmental regulations and an in- Communities that will be served by the Ute (4) By adding at the end of title VII the fol- crease in consumer prices to those here pipeline include Grady, Clovis, Melrose, lowing: at home. It would be nice if Congress Texico, Portales and Elida, as well as Cannon ‘‘SEC. 709. TUNNEL MAINTENANCE. would promote our own mining indus- Air Force Base. ‘‘The Secretary shall take such steps to re- try and not destroy it by 1,000 cuts. I am a cosponsor of this important legisla- pair or maintain the structural integrity of tion and urge its swift passage. America does deserve better. the Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel (LMDT) This bill, though, solves a particular Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I yield back the as may be necessary in order to prevent tun- balance of my time. nel failure and to preclude uncontrolled re- problem that is faced in Colorado. It is Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I yield lease of water from any portion of the tun- a bipartisan bill. And I urge its adop- back the balance of my time. nel.’’. tion. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (5) In the table of sections contained in Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, today is, an question is on the motion offered by section 2— important day for the citizens of Lake County the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. (A) by striking the item relating to section and all residents of Colorado. They deserve to 705; and BORDALLO) that the House suspend the see what the federal government will do to (B) by inserting after the item relating to correct problems associated with the Leadville rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5710. section 708 the following new item: The question was taken. Mine Drainage Tunnel. ‘‘Sec. 709. Tunnel maintenance.’’. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the The Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel was opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being THE SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- originally constructed by the federal Bureau of in the affirmative, the ayes have it. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from Mines in the 1940’s and 1950’s to facilitate the Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I object to Guam (Ms. BORDALLO) and gentleman extraction of lead and zinc ore for the World the vote on the ground that a quorum from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) each will con- War II and the Korean War efforts. The Bu- is not present and make the point of trol 20 minutes. reau of Reclamation acquired the Tunnel in order that a quorum is not present. The Chair recognizes the gentle- 1959 hoping to use the tunnel as a source of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- woman from Guam. water for the Frying pan-Arkansas Project. Al- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the GENERAL LEAVE though the tunnel was never used for the Chair’s prior announcement, further Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ask Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, water that flows proceedings on this motion will be unanimous consent that all Members out of the tunnel is considered part of the nat- postponed. may have 5 legislative days in which to ural flow of the Arkansas River.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5431 With the passage and subsequent signing legislation on provisions of the bill that are The point of no quorum is considered into law of H.R. 429 during the 102nd Con- within the Committee’s jurisdiction. I ask withdrawn. gress (1992), the Bureau of Reclamation con- for your commitment to support any request by the Committee on Transportation and In- f structed and continues to operate a water frastructure for the appointment of con- COMMUNICATION FROM THE treatment plant at the mouth of the Tunnel. ferees on H.R. 5511 or similar legislation. CLERK OF THE HOUSE Groundwater levels at the tunnel have fluc- Please place a copy of this letter and your tuated in recent years. In addition, a collapse response acknowledging the Committee on The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- in the tunnel has increased the tunnel’s mine Transportation and Infrastructure’s jurisdic- fore the House the following commu- pool significantly, leading to new seeps and tional interest in the Committee Report on nication from the Clerk of the House of springs in the area. Estimates suggest that up H.R. 5511 and in the Congressional Record Representatives: during consideration of the measure on the to 1 billion gallons of water may have built up OFFICE OF THE CLERK, House Floor. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, within the mine pool. I look forward to working with you as we Washington, DC, June 17, 2008. In November 2007, the Environmental Pro- prepare to pass this important legislation. Hon. NANCY PELOSI, tection Agency sent a letter to the Bureau of Sincerely, Speaker, House of Representatives, Reclamation expressing concerns over a cata- JAMES L. OBERSTAR, M.C., Washington, DC. Chairman. strophic blowout, and in February 2008, the DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the Lake County Commissioners declared a state permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of emergency. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- We know that the Bureau of Reclamation is COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES, tives, the Clerk received the following mes- completing a risk assessment in the area, and Washington, DC, June 16, 2008. sage from the Secretary of the Senate on Hon. JAMES OBERSTAR, June 17, 2008, at 10:40 a.m.: we look forward to reviewing that report. Addi- Chairman, Committee on Transportation and tionally, some emergency measures are cur- That the Senate passed without amend- Infrastructure, Washington, DC. ment H.R. 814. rently being undertaken by the Environmental DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Thank you for your That the Senate passed without amend- willingness to expedite floor consideration of Protection Agency and the Bureau of Rec- ment H.R. 5778. H.R. 5511, a bill to direct the Secretary of the lamation to relieve water pressure in the vicin- That the Senate passed with an amend- Interior to remedy problems caused by a col- ity. ment H.R. 3403. But many of the problems reported at this lapsed drainage tunnel in Leadville, Colo- That the Senate agreed to S. Con. Res. 84. rado. Appointments: site are not new. Legislation addressing this I appreciate your willingness to waive Board of Trustees of Gallaudet University matter and authorizing the Secretary of the In- rights to further consideration of H.R. 5511, With best wishes, I am terior to rehabilitate this tunnel dates back to notwithstanding the jurisdictional interest Sincerely, at least 1976. of the Committee on Transportation and In- LORRAINE C. MILLER, frastructure. Of course, this waiver does not In response to the request for action from Clerk of the House. the local community, I worked together with prejudice any further jurisdictional claims f Congressman MARK UDALL from Colorado and by your Committee over this legislation or introduced H.R. 5511. This bill would direct similar language. Furthermore, I agree to DESIGNATING CHAIRMAN AND support your request for appointment of con- the Bureau of Reclamation to relieve water VICE CHAIRMAN OF UNITED ferees from the Committee on Transpor- STATES INTERNATIONAL TRADE pressure behind certain blockages in the tun- tation and Infrastructure if a conference is nel, permanently manage the mine pool be- held on this matter. COMMISSION—MESSAGE FROM hind any blockage to prevent releases of con- This exchange of letters will be placed in THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED taminated water, and manage the tunnel in the committee report and inserted in the STATES such a way to prevent failure of the structure. Congressional Record as part of the consider- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- ation of the bill on the House floor. Thank I look forward to seeing this situation rem- fore the House the following message edied so that concerns about human safety you for the cooperative spirit in which you have worked regarding this matter and oth- from the President of the United and environmental integrity may be appro- ers between our respective committees. States; which was read and, without priately and responsibly addressed. I encour- With warm regards, I am objection, referred to the Committee age all members to support passage of this Sincerely, on Ways and Means: legislation. NICK J. RAHALL II, To The Congress of the United States: Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, I submit the fol- Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources. Consistent with the provisions of 19 lowing letters for inclusion in the RECORD on Mr. BISHOP of Utah. Once again, I U.S.C. 1330(c)(1), this is to notify the the consideration of H.R. 5511, the Leadville have no other speakers on this par- Congress that I have designated Shara Mine Drainage Tunnel Act of 2008. ticular bill. Does the gentlelady have L. Aranoff as Chairman and Daniel HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COM- any other speakers? Pearson as Vice Chairman of the MITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND Ms. BORDALLO. I have no other United States International Trade INFRASTRUCTURE, speakers. Commission, effective June 17, 2008. Washington, DC, June 12, 2008. Mr. BISHOP of Utah. I will yield Hon. NICK RAHALL, GEORGE W. BUSH. back the balance of my time. THE WHITE HOUSE, June 17, 2008. Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources, Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I have House of Representatives, Washington, DC. f DEAR CHAIRMAN RAHALL: I write to you re- no further speakers, and I yield back. garding H.R. 5511, a bill to direct the Sec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The PUBLIC RADIO RECOGNITION retary of the Interior to remedy problems question is on the motion offered by MONTH caused by a collapsed drainage tunnel in the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I Leadville, Colorado. BORDALLO) that the House suspend the move to suspend the rules and agree to H.R. 5511 contains provisions that fall rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5511, as within the jurisdiction of the Committee on the resolution (H. Res. 1002) expressing amended. support for designation of April 2008 as Transportation and Infrastructure. I recog- The question was taken. nize and appreciate your desire to bring this ‘‘Public Radio Recognition Month,’’ as legislation before the House in an expedi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the amended. tious manner and, accordingly, I will not opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being The Clerk read the title of the resolu- seek a sequential referral of the bill. How- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. tion. ever, I agree to waive consideration of this Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I ob- The text of the resolution is as fol- bill with the mutual understanding that my ject to the vote on the ground that a lows: decision to forego a sequential referral of the quorum is not present and make the H. RES. 1002 bill does not waive, reduce, or otherwise af- point of order that a quorum is not fect the jurisdiction of the Committee on present. Whereas the mission of public radio is to Transportation and Infrastructure over H.R. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- create a better informed public that is chal- 5511. lenged and invigorated by a deeper under- Further, the Committee on Transportation ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the standing and appreciation of events, ideas, and Infrastructure reserves the right to seek Chair’s prior announcement, further and cultures; the appointment of conferees during any proceedings on this motion will be Whereas the programming content created House-Senate conference convened on this postponed. and distributed by public radio is based on 3

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5432 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 core values: qualities of mind, qualities of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there find it interesting that we were so heart, and qualities of craft, which exemplify objection to the request of the gen- busy, and yet we didn’t have time to the inherent meaning of localism by placing tleman from Illinois? find out what were the real causes of value and financial investment in local and There was no objection. high oil and gas prices, why America is regional assets to gather and distribute a collection of programming that informs and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I importing half a trillion dollars a year improves community; yield myself such time as I might con- of other people’s oil and a similar Whereas public radio is known for distinc- sume. growing amount of natural gas and tive, award-winning programming that in- Mr. Speaker, public radio, of course, other resources. cludes ‘‘Morning Edition’’, ‘‘All Things Con- is one of the things that all of us spend So I would hope that when we get sidered’’, ‘‘A Prairie Home Companion’’, a great deal of time listening to. As a this April legislation off our plate, we ‘‘Marketplace’’, ‘‘Speaking of Faith’’, and matter of fact, there are many of us, would turn to the important issues of ‘‘This American Life’’; and many people in America, who feel the day, certainly the incredibly high Whereas America’s more than 800 public radio stations serve every State and every that if they don’t get the opportunity price of gas in my home district, congressional district with news, informa- to listen, to know what has taken caused by a lack of domestic explo- tion, cultural, and music programming that place, to recognize what is going on in ration. are unique to free radio; our country, then they are seriously And if we have just a little time, per- Whereas some 33,000,000 Americans listen deprived. haps we could find out why in the to public radio programming each week; Whereas the mission of public radio midst of the sub-S meltdown, we dis- Whereas the public radio audience has dou- is to create a better informed public cover that Members of this body and bled in the past 15 years and has increased by that is challenged and invigorated by a Members of the body on the other side some 70 percent in the past decade; deeper understanding and appreciation Whereas public radio stations are licensed of the dome were in fact getting special by community foundations, colleges, univer- of events, ideas and cultures; and deals that saved themselves tens and sities, school boards, libraries, and other whereas public radio is almost a main- hundreds of thousands of dollars on local nonprofit entities; stay in hundreds of thousands and per- their home mortgages. These investiga- Whereas public radio stations are locally haps even millions of Americans’ tions need to happen, because we need licensed, locally staffed, and locally pro- homes. We wake up in the morning, to solve the problem of how America grammed, and have tailored their program- many families go to bed at night, and finds itself with financial meltdown. ming to meet the needs of local audiences; public radio is the balance that they We need to find out what it is going to Whereas public radio stations on average need to feel that the information they receive more than 85 percent of their annual take to get American oil and high-pay- funding from local sources; are receiving is not being commer- ing American jobs flowing again. Whereas public radio’s public service finds cialized, that it is information that is Madam Speaker, I would yield back expression through a deep music discovery, coming straight from wherever the the balance of my time. education, and enrichment experience for purveyors have gotten it. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- both its audience and the performers, singer- b 1600 er, I would urge support of this resolu- songwriters, musicians, lyricists, and com- tion and yield back the balance of our posers, which places the greatest emphasis They are not necessarily trying to time. on a valued partnership with performers to shape ideas in one direction or another, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. bring all facets of music into the lives of its but to simply give information to peo- JONES of Ohio). The question is on the audience in a way that is found nowhere else; ple that they can use and take advan- Whereas public radio has preserved and en- motion offered by the gentleman from tage of and make it a part of their ev- hanced the archetypal musical formats of Illinois (Mr. DAVIS) that the House sus- American music history, such as jazz, clas- eryday lives. pend the rules and agree to the resolu- sical, folk, bluegrass, the blues, and Celtic; So, based upon those facts and based tion, H. Res. 1002, as amended. Whereas public radio is responding to its upon that information, it is certainly The question was taken. commitment to community-based and fact- my pleasure to express support for this The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the based journalism with several initiatives, in- legislation. I want to commend the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being cluding the Local News Initiative, a national gentleman from Oregon, Mr. effort to increase public radio’s service to in the affirmative, the ayes have it. BLUMENAUER, for introducing it. communities through investments in station Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, on that I I reserve the balance of my time. capacity to provide in-depth, serious, and demand the yeas and nays. balanced news, and Public Insight Jour- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I too rise The yeas and nays were ordered. nalism, a pioneering concept that uses citi- in support of the resolution. National The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- zens to help cover the news by sharing their Public Radio is important. KPBS in my ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the observations, knowledge, and expertise; hometown represents a voice that pro- Chair’s prior announcement, further Whereas public radio has embraced digital vides a plethora of information that broadcasting technology because of its inher- proceedings on this motion will be would not otherwise be available. postponed. ently inclusive nature and potential to ex- Some of the information that I hope pand public service programming; and they would provide would be to get to f Whereas public radio exists to serve the public interest: Now, therefore, be it the true causes of our high oil prices. SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND In San Diego, Public Broadcasting is Resolved, That the House of Representa- IDEALS OF FLAG DAY tives— playing a role in saying that $5 gas is unacceptable. Unfortunately, Madam Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- (1) expresses support for the designation of er, I move to suspend the rules and a ‘‘Public Radio Recognition Month’’; and Speaker, public radio is not yet mak- (2) encourages the celebration of America’s ing us aware of just why it is so high. agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1219) public radio stations for their contributions The fact that over 2 billion acres are celebrating the symbol of the United to our Nation’s communities and enduring not available for exploration of oil and States flag and supporting the goals civic spirit. gas in California is part of the reason and ideals of Flag Day. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- that last weekend I paid $5-plus for a The Clerk read the title of the resolu- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- gallon of gas in my home district. tion. The text of the resolution is as fol- linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman That, Madam Speaker, is in fact some- lows: from California (Mr. ISSA) each will thing that we need to take care of. We control 20 minutes. need to have public radio and all of our H. RES. 1219 The Chair recognizes the gentleman communications systems running on Whereas Flag Day is celebrated annually on June 14, the anniversary of the official from Illinois. full bore. I do note, Madam Speaker, that this adoption of the American flag by the Conti- GENERAL LEAVE is an April resolution. This is a resolu- nental Congress in 1777; Whereas on June 14, 1777, in order to estab- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I tion that we are so far behind in the lish an official flag for the new Nation, the ask unanimous consent that all Mem- important business of the House, we Continental Congress passed the first Flag bers have 5 legislative days to revise are only getting to now celebrating Act, which stated, ‘‘Resolved, That the flag and extend their remarks. April of 2008 for Public Broadcasting. I of the United States be made of thirteen

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Res. 1219’s lead sponsor, Rep- which the vast majority of our re- union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, resentative ROBERT LATTA of Ohio, in- sources are not being used. representing a new Constellation’’; troduced the bill on May 21, 2008, and it Madam Speaker, I join with the ma- Whereas the second Flag Act, signed Janu- jority in saying that in fact America ary 13, 1794, provided for 15 stripes and 15 was reported from the Oversight Com- stars after May 1795; mittee on June 12, 2008, by voice vote. has to make sure that our natural re- Whereas the Act of April 4, 1818, which pro- This measure has the support and spon- sources are used, whether it is the 68 vided for 13 stripes and one star for each sorship of 62 Members of Congress and million acres being called into question State, to be added to the flag on July 4 fol- expresses our appreciation for and be- by the majority as to whether or not lowing the admission of each new State, was lief in the power of the red, white and oil leases are being pursued, or the 41 signed by President James Monroe; blue. million acres that do have oil under Whereas in an Executive order dated June The importance of the American flag production, or in fact the 2 billion-plus 24, 1912, President William Howard Taft es- as a symbol to our Nation is enormous. tablished the proportions of the flag and pro- acres, including the area over 50 miles vided for arrangement of the stars in 6 hori- Our flag represents the service men and off the California coast that has been zontal rows of 8 each, a single point of each women who proudly wear it, the judges permanently taken off limits to oil and star to be upward; and legislators who serve in honor of clean natural gas so needed in our Whereas in an Executive order dated Janu- it, and the millions of Americans who country. ary 3, 1959, President Dwight D. Eisenhower stand daily and pledge their allegiance So, as we celebrate this Flag Day and provided for the arrangement of the stars in to it. It is indeed representative of our reinvestment in our flag and in 9 rows staggered horizontally and 11 rows of every American as a symbol of hope who we are as a nation, let’s remember stars staggered vertically; and freedom that resonates around the who we are is a country of self-suffi- Whereas the first celebration of the Amer- ican flag is believed to have been introduced world. ciency, and self-sufficiency starts with by Bernard Cigrand, a Wisconsin school Flag Day is celebrated every June 14, the ability to produce our own prod- teacher, who arranged for his pupils at Stony because it was on that day in 1777 that ucts and certainly to heat our own Hill School in Waubeka to celebrate June 14 the Continental Congress passed the homes. as ‘‘Flag Birthday’’ in 1885; first Flag Act, giving our Nation an en- Madam Speaker, I have no more to Whereas on June 14, 1894, the Governor of during and identifying emblem. The say about our flag than what our flag New York ordered that the American flag be flag has changed since then, but the says for itself, but I have a great deal displayed at all public buildings in the State, ideas it embodies have endured. From to say about who we as Americans will prompting many State and local governments to begin observing Flag Day; the images of the Americans planting be. We will be a country, God willing, Whereas President Woodrow Wilson pro- the flag in the sands of Iwo Jima, to that in fact is self-sufficient. claimed the first nationwide Flag Day in the flag that was pulled from the rub- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- 1916; ble of the New York World Trade Cen- ance of my time. Whereas in 1947, President Harry S. Tru- ter after the attacks of 9/11, Old Glory Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- man signed legislation requesting National has become an integral part of our na- er, I continue to reserve. Flag Day be observed annually; tional fabric. Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield Whereas the United States flag is a symbol So, Madam Speaker, I urge swift pas- such time as he may consume to the of our great Nation and its ideals; sage of H. Res. 1219, for it will provide gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LATTA), the Whereas in times of national crisis, Ameri- cans look to the United States flag as a sym- due recognition of the importance of author of the bill. bol of hope, courage, and freedom; the American flag and demonstrate our Mr. LATTA. Madam Speaker, I thank Whereas the United States flag is univer- support of the day which honors it. the gentleman for yielding. sally honored; Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Madam Speaker, I am pleased to in- Whereas the United States flag honors the ance of my time. troduce House Resolution 1219, cele- men and women of the Armed Forces who Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield brating the symbol of the United have given their life in the defense of the myself such time as I may consume. States and supporting the goals and United States; Madam Speaker, I too rise in strong ideals of Flag Day. Whereas the United States flag serves as a support of Flag Day. Since 1777, Amer- Flag Day is celebrated on June 14, treasured symbol of the loss of loved ones to ica has in fact invested a great deal of the countless families of those who died in which is the anniversary of the official defense of our Nation; and who we are, what we do, what is right adoption of the American flag by the Whereas June 14, 2008, is recognized as Flag and what we stand for in our Nation’s Continental Congress in 1777. This was Day: Now, therefore, be it flag. Whether it was the first Flag Day, done by the first Flag Act, which stat- Resolved, That the House of Representa- which emerged in 1885 when a 19-year- ed, ‘‘Resolved, That the flag of the tives celebrates the United States flag and old schoolteacher in Wisconsin de- United States be made of 13 stripes, al- supports the goals and ideals of Flag Day. clared the flag’s birthday, or in 1889, ternating in red and white, that the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- when a kindergarten teacher in New union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- York City held a patriotic ceremony to representing a new constellation.’’ linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman help educate his children, or through- Since 1777, our flag’s design has been from California (Mr. ISSA) each will out the years, year after year after altered three times under executive control 20 minutes. year, in which America invested its pa- order, rearranging the design of the The Chair recognizes the gentleman triotism in the flag, or, as the gen- stars and stripes each time a State was from Illinois. tleman in the majority said, in fact on added. GENERAL LEAVE September 11, when here in Washington The first celebration of the American Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- and around the world we invested in a flag was believed to have been intro- er, I ask unanimous consent that all patriotic showing after the terrible duced by a Wisconsin schoolteacher, Members may have 5 legislative days events in New York, here in Wash- who arranged for his students at Stony in which to revise and extend their re- ington and Pennsylvania, we did so be- Hill School to celebrate June 14 as Flag marks. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there cause in fact we are what America Day in 1885. President Woodrow Wilson objection to the request of the gen- stands for. Our flag represents that. proclaimed the first nationwide Flag tleman from Illinois? But, today, Madam Speaker, America Day in 1916, and in 1947, President There was no objection. stands for a country that imports half Harry Truman signed legislation re- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- a trillion dollars worth of oil and vast questing National Flag Day be ob- er, I yield myself such time as I may amounts of natural gas. America is a served annually. consume. country with crushing debt owed to Flag Day is an important holiday, as As a member of the House Committee other countries around the world. our flag is the official symbol of our on Oversight and Government Reform, America today is a country proud of great Nation and its ideals. Our flag I present for consideration H. Res. 1219, itself and proud of its flag, but mort- serves as a beacon of hope, courage and which celebrates our Nation’s flag and gaging our children’s future by invest- freedom during times of crisis and tri- the goals of Flag Day, a day honoring ing in foreign oil and foreign natural umph alike. It honors the men and the America’s most enduring symbol. gas and foreign minerals at a time in women of the Armed Forces who have

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The trend of observing House Resolution 1219 as we celebrate bined with NPR’s strength in national Flag Day caught on and quickly spread to our Nation’s flag. and international reporting, the result New York and Philadelphia. However, it was Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- is one of the largest, most capable and not until August 3rd, 1949 that President Tru- er, it is my pleasure to yield such time most trusted news network organiza- man signed an Act of Congress designating as he may consume to the gentleman tions anywhere in the world. June 14th as National Flag Day. from Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER). Public radio reliably provides a care- Today, we continue to honor Flag Day with Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, ful, balanced and thoughtful approach a proclamation from the President urging U.S. I appreciate the gentleman’s courtesy to news and culture. This feature is citizens to fly the American flag from their in permitting me to speak on that. I unique to public broadcasting, and it is homes for the duration of the June 14th week. rise in support of this resolution and a breath of fresh air in our often shrill Also, it is encouraged that all government think that it is appropriate and timely and argumentative mass media envi- buildings fly the American flag. On the second for it to come forward and agree with ronment. Sunday of June, the National Flag Day Foun- the representation that I have heard We hear a lot about commercial dation holds an annual observance for Flag from my colleagues. broadcasting’s becoming little more Day. The program includes a recitation of the As a long-time public radio listener than 30-second, sound-bite news. That’s Pledge of Allegiance, singing of the National and Chair of the Public Broadcasting one of the reasons I believe NPR’s audi- Anthem, a ceremonial rising of the flag, and a Caucus, I was proud to sponsor the res- ence has grown so significantly in re- large parade. These types of celebrations play olution recognizing Public Radio Rec- cent years, doubling in the last 15 an important role in observing one of our na- ognition Month. years and increasing by 70 percent in tion’s most important symbols, the American Too often we take for granted the the last decade. flag. rich and diverse contributions of public Americans are thirsty for thoughtful I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting radio to America’s communities, and and intelligent programming, and at a this resolution to support the ideals of Flag this was an opportunity on the floor of time when our media is controlled by Day. May we continue to recognize the sym- the House to reflect on its contribu- fewer and fewer entities, we can have bol of our freedom and display our patriotism tions and show our appreciation for confidence that public radio which is proudly. public radio as a genuine national owned by the public is committed to Mr. POE. Madam Speaker, in 1814, Francis treasure. public interests, not to special inter- Scott Key wrote of a star-spangled banner The future of radio depends on pro- ests. which America ‘‘so proudly hailed . . .’’ gramming and content, first and fore- In every congressional district across through a night of bomb blasts and rocket-fire. most, and in the area of high-quality the country, through over 800 locally The flag consisted of fifteen stripes, alternating radio content, public radio has no peer. controlled and managed stations, red and white, and fifteen white stars on a Public radio offers an unmatched com- Americans can turn to a public radio field of blue; it united a brand new Nation mitment to using the airwaves to cre- station as their single source for local, under the principles of life, liberty, and the pur- ate a more informed public, a public national and international news as well suit of happiness. In the 194 years since our national anthem that craves and is challenged by an ex- as for informative, cultural and musi- was written, we’ve come a long way—Old amination of ideas, events and culture. cal programming. Glory has acquired 35 more stars, and has Each week, over 33 million Ameri- There is nowhere else you can find become the most recognized flag in the world. cans listen to NPR, an audience that such unique and valued service for all But its power to unify a nation hasn’t changed. exceeds the top 35 U.S. daily news- of our communities, and I hope that Our flag has become synonymous with Free- papers combined. When we consider resolution was a reminder that we in dom, Justice, Prosperity, and all the principles this figure, along with the 100 million Congress, as individuals and policy- upon which our great Nation was founded. people who watch public television makers, must continue to provide crit- On this, the 58th National Flag Day that our each week, we can see the profound ical support for local, publicly owned nation has celebrated, let’s fly our flags with reach of Public Broadcasting. It con- radio stations, the heart of public reverence in honor of our men and women nects people with their local commu- radio. who have given their lives, and for those who nity, their Nation and their world in a I invite my colleagues to recognize this achievement as they reflect on continue to fight to defend our great Nation. way that no other outlet can or does. For a country whose trust is in God, our flag public broadcasting. It’s part of the b 1615 is a precious reminder of how we’ve gotten framework that makes the country so Distinctive, award-winning programs here as well as a beacon for which we strive. great and part of why we revere our And that’s just the way it is. such as This American Life, A Prairie flag and our Nation. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. I yield back Home Companion, and Speaking of Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I have no the balance of our time. Faith tell the story of our shared further speakers at this time, and I re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The American experience, and the vibrant, serve the balance of my time. question is on the motion offered by enduring programs of Morning Edition, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. I would con- the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. All Things Considered, and Market- tinue to reserve, Madam Speaker. DAVIS) that the House suspend the place draw on reporting from cor- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I would rules and agree to the resolution, H. respondents based in bureaus around yield back. Res. 1219. the world and from producers and re- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- The question was taken. porters in 19 locations in the United er, we have no additional speakers, and The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the States. I would urge passage of this resolution. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being But the strength of the NPR and the Mr. SHULER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in the affirmative, the ayes have it. member station news network goes far to support H. Res. 1219, supporting and hon- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I object beyond this corps of international and oring the ideals of Flag Day. The American to the vote on the ground that a national NPR reporters; it reaches into flag represents the freedom and democratic quorum is not present and make the communities across America. Through ideals of this nation and the brave Americans point of order that a quorum is not community-based journalism, such as who have defended these ideals throughout present. the Diane Rehm Show right here in our history. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Washington, DC on WAMU and Think Established in 1885, Flag Day commemo- ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the Out Loud on OPB back home in Or- rates the adoption of our flag on June 14, Chair’s prior announcement, further egon, we see a dedication to bringing 1777. Bernard Cigrand, the Father of Flag proceedings on this motion will be people together at the local level for Day, was the President of the American Flag postponed.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5435 The point of no quorum is considered the 1981 Richardson Award of the Golf Writ- Chi-Chi joined the ranks of profes- withdrawn. ers Association of America, the 1982 Father sional golfers at the age of 24, and over of the Year Award, the 1986 Card Walker f the next four decades, he earned 38 pro- Award (Outstanding Contribution to Junior fessional wins, including 8 PGA tour Golf), the 1986 Salvation Army Gold Crest CONGRATULATING AND wins and 22 Senior PGA tour wins. In RECOGNIZING CHI-CHI RODRIGUEZ Award, the 12th Roberto Clemente Cup, the 1986 Byron Nelson Award, the 1986 Hispanic 1979, Chi-Chi Rodriguez had used his Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- Achievement Recognition Award, the 1987 national recognition as a great sports- er, I move to suspend the rules and Byron Nelson Award, the 1987 Senior Tour man to help found the Chi-Chi agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1029) Arnold Palmer Award, the 1988 Fred Raphael Rodriguez Youth Foundation and the congratulating and recognizing Mr. Golf Achievement Award, the 1989 Old Tom Chi-Chi Rodriguez Academy, which Juan Antonio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez for Morris Award, the 1990 ‘‘Caring for Kids’’ have collectively raised $4 million to his continued success on and off of the Award, the 1991 Jackie Robinson Humani- assist disadvantaged youth. tarian Award, the 1993 Civilian Meritorious golf course, for his generosity and de- Service Medal presented by the Department The Chi-Chi Rodriguez Foundation votion to charity, and for his exem- of Defense, the 1997 International Network of has been honored by the National Golf plary dedication to the intellectual and Golf Award, the 1998 Ford Achievement Association, by the Jackie Robinson moral growth of thousands of low-in- Award, and the 2003 Paul Runyan Memorial Foundation and by the Points of Light come and disadvantaged youth in our Recognition Award, among others; and Foundation for its youth and commu- country, as amended. Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez has authored nity service efforts. The Clerk read the title of the resolu- and coauthored several books and articles Chi-Chi also joined with the FBI tion. about golf, such as ‘‘Chi Chi’s Secrets of Agents Association to create the Chi- Power Golf’’ in 1967, ‘‘Everybody’s Golf Chi Rodriguez G–Man Desert Shootout The text of the resolution is as fol- Book’’ in 1975, ‘‘Chi Chi’s Power Pack’’ in lows: 1982, ‘‘Every Golfer’s Guide to Lower Scores Tournament in order to fund college H. RES. 1029 by Chi-Chi Rodriguez’’ in 1990, and ‘‘Chi Chi’s scholarships for the children of those Whereas sports figures, through their per- Golf Games You Gotta Play’’ in 2003, among FBI agents who have been killed in the severance, discipline, and good behavior, can others: Now, therefore, be it line of duty. serve as examples of excellence, dedication, Resolved, That the House of Representa- Chi-Chi has been heard to say, ‘‘For and devotion to our youth; tives— me, satisfaction comes from knowing Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez was born in Rio (1) congratulates Chi-Chi Rodriguez for his that I was put on this planet to make Piedras, Puerto Rico, on October 23, 1935, to successes in the sport of golf; and (2) commends Chi-Chi Rodriguez for his ex- it better.’’ This philosophy has guided an agricultural laborer and a housekeeper; his life and has made him an example Whereas Chi-Chi joined the ranks of golf emplary conduct as a humanitarian and advocate for underprivileged youth. of dedication and generosity of spirit. professionals at the age of 24, reportedly Madam Speaker, as Members of Con- standing at 5 foot seven inches and weighing The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 117 pounds; ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- gress, one of our great honors is to rec- Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez had a stellar linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman ognize our fellow citizens who stand career in the sport of golf, earning an im- from California (Mr. ISSA) each will out as exceptional individuals. I am pressive record of 38 professional wins, in- control 20 minutes. proud to support this resolution, hon- cluding 8 PGA Tour wins and 22 Senior PGA The Chair recognizes the gentleman oring a great Puerto Rican-American Tour wins; humanitarian. Whereas his Senior Tour records for most from Illinois. GENERAL LEAVE Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I would consecutive victories, at 4, and most con- like to yield such time as he may consecutive birdies, at 8, still stand; Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- Whereas in 1979, Chi-Chi Rodriguez helped er, I ask unanimous consent that all sume to the gentleman from Florida create the Chi-Chi Rodriguez Youth Founda- Members may have 5 legislative days (Mr. BILIRAKIS). tion, and the Chi-Chi Rodriguez Academy in in which to revise and extend their re- Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, I Clearwater, Florida, which help thousands of marks. rise today in strong support of H. Res. low-income and disadvantaged youth reach The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there 1029, which congratulates and recog- their life potential through educational op- objection to the request of the gen- nizes Mr. Juan Antonio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ portunities and support programs; Rodriguez for his success on the golf Whereas in 1986, the Chi-Chi Rodriguez tleman from Illinois? There was no objection. course, for his devotion to charity and Youth Foundation was awarded the National for his dedication to the intellectual Golf Foundation’s Award for Best Youth Pro- Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Now, Madam gram in the United States and the Robie Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield as and moral development of low-income Award for Humanitarianism presented by much time as he might consume to the and disadvantaged youth throughout the Jackie Robinson Foundation; author of this resolution, my good our Nation. Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez was recognized friend from Illinois, Representative Mr. Rodriguez’ knack for golf began by the Points of Light Foundation for its GUTIERREZ. at a young age. He learned to play golf youth and community service efforts; Mr. GUTIERREZ. I thank the gen- with makeshift golf clubs fashioned Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez and the FBI tleman for the time. from guava tree limbs and from tin Agents Association have organized the Chi- Madam Speaker, I rise today in cans hammered into golf balls. He shot Chi Rodriguez G–Man Desert Shootout Tour- nament to raise funds for college scholar- strong support of House Resolution a remarkable 67 at age 12. By the end of ships for the children of FBI agents killed in 1029, congratulating and recognizing his professional career, he had won 22 the line of duty; Mr. Juan Antonio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez Senior PGA tour events and the hearts Whereas in 1989, the United States Golf As- for his continued success on and off the of many Americans with his trademark sociation granted Chi-Chi Rodriguez its high- golf course, for his generosity and de- toreador dance. est honor, the Bob Jones Award, in recogni- votion to charity and for his dedication Part of what makes Mr. Rodriguez tion for his distinguished sportsmanship in to the intellectual and moral growth of such a remarkable individual is that he golf; thousands of low-income and disadvan- took his own professional accomplish- Whereas in 1994, Chi-Chi Rodriguez was inducted to the first class of the World Sports taged youth in our country. ments and channeled them into the Humanitarian Hall of Fame; I am proud to have introduced this Chi-Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation, Whereas in 1992, Chi-Chi Rodriguez was in- resolution honoring a great American. which supports the Chi-Chi Rodriguez ducted to the World Golf Hall of Fame; Chi-Chi Rodriguez was born the fifth of Academy, which is in my congressional Whereas in 1973, Chi-Chi Rodriguez was a six children to an agricultural worker district. Starting in 1979 and with just member of the U.S. team that won the Ryder and to a housekeeper in Rio Piedras, 17 students, the mission of the acad- Cup in Muirfield, Scotland; Puerto Rico. From these humble begin- emy is to assist at-risk children by im- Whereas in 1981, Chi-Chi Rodriguez was se- nings, he rose to become one of the Na- proving their self-esteem, character, lected by the Northern Ohio Golf Charities tion’s most talented professional as its first Ambassador of Golf; work ethic, social adjustment, and aca- Whereas Chi-Chi Rodriguez has received golfers, using his skills and status to demic performance by using the golf countless other distinguished awards and benefit others. Chi-Chi is distinguished course as a classroom. recognitions such as the 1974 Charlie Bart- as a great humanitarian and role model The academy encompasses a public- lett Award of the Golf Writers Association, for children across the Nation. private partnership school that fosters

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5436 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 students’ achievements through inter- I reserve the balance of my time. with children to improve their self-esteem, active experiences in various real- Mr. ISSA. I yield myself such time as character, work ethic, social adjustment, and world business environments: The First I may consume. academic performance. His humanitarian work Tee of Clearwater, incorporating life Madam Speaker, no one is a better allowed him to be recognized as an inaugural skills with golf skills; the After School example of energy, of doing more with inductee into the World Humanitarian Hall of Enrichment program, reinforcing and less than is Chi-Chi Rodriguez. Not Fame. furthering academic studies; and the only did he begin golfing at age 6 and Madam Speaker, Juan ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez Community Service program, designed shoot a 67 at age 12, but in fact, for a leads an exemplary life of public service and to help students fulfill their graduation man who never rose above 5’7’’ in gives hope to the underprivileged children of and scholarship volunteer service hour height or 130 pounds in weight, he has America. He has used his success in his pro- requirements. one of the most famous long balls in fessional career to make a positive impact in Madam Speaker, my kids have had golf. That is the energy of Chi-Chi many people’s lives. Mr. Rodriguez is deserv- the honor of meeting Mr. Rodriguez, Rodriguez, an energy that America ing of the utmost respect and recognition for and I have had the pleasure of seeing covets. He is somebody who doesn’t let his contributions to the youth of America. That firsthand his good work in my district. size or any other limitation keep him is why I support H. Res. 1029, introduced by Mr. Rodriguez, after meeting with from achieving his goals. Mr. GUTIERREZ of Illinois. Mother Teresa, embraced her lesson of Earlier, the gentleman from Florida Mr. BACA. Madam Speaker, I rise today in living to help other people, and he has talked about Florida and Chi-Chi support of H. Res. 1029, recognizing Chi-Chi served as an inspiration to thousands Rodriguez’ activities there in Clear- Rodriguez for his generosity and work with of young men and women over the past water. Florida brings to mind that, low-income and disadvantaged youth in our three decades. His unique idea to teach when you talk about a man of energy, country. the important life skills of self-control, just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, Chi-Chi is famous for his success on the responsibility and respect for others to China and Cuba are now issuing con- golf course. He was a self-taught golfer that at-risk youth while maintaining an at- tracts that are going to allow for drill- started out fusing a branch from a guava tree mosphere that builds confidence and ing, for drilling closer to America than for a club and a metal can as a ball. positive educational experiences we allow, just 50 miles off the coast of He then went on to win 8 titles on the PGA through golf is truly commendable. Florida, in fact, without the kind of tour and represented our country as a mem- It is with great admiration that I rise safeguards that American companies ber of the 1973 U.S. Ryder Cup team. today to honor the accomplishments of would use. He is a true ambassador of the game, and Mr. Chi-Chi Rodriguez by supporting b 1630 a role model for all Latino golfers, including this resolution. So when I think of Florida and I myself. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- From his childhood in the sugar cane fields er, I would yield myself such time as I think of a man of energy, I think of the energy that is being kept away from of Puerto Rico, to the World Golf Hall of might consume. Fame, Chi-Chi has lived the American Dream. I rise as a member of the House Com- the American people, energy that What most people don’t know about Chi-Chi mittee on Oversight and Government would keep our dollars from flowing to is his dedication to working with underprivi- Reform to join my colleagues in con- countries less friendly to us, energy leged kids. He inspires others to pursue their sideration of H. Res. 1029, which recog- that would make us self-sufficient and dreams as well. nizes as well as congratulates Mr. Juan self-reliant, and energy that would At the Chi-Chi Rodriguez Academy, kids Antonio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez for his heat our homes and fuel our cars at a learn valuable lessons to help them in life—re- continued success on and off the golf cost far less than what we are paying spect, confidence, honesty, responsibility, in- course, for his generosity and devotion today. tegrity, and sportsmanship, to name a few. to charity and for his exemplary dedi- Madam Speaker, I truly think of en- cation to the positive development of ergy when I think of Chi-Chi Under-achieving students with behavioral thousands of low-income and disadvan- Rodriguez, and I appreciate the oppor- problems and learning disabilities get free help taged youth in our country. tunity to speak on Chi-Chi Rodriguez at Chi-Chi’s academy. H. Res. 1029 was authored by Con- and urge passage of this resolution. This resolution recognizes Chi-Chi’s congressman LUIS GUTIERREZ of Illinois Mr. SHULER. Madam Speaker, I rise today tinuing efforts to improve the lives of thou- and is cosponsored by 52 Members of to honor the extraordinary life of Juan Antonio sands of low-income and disadvantaged youth Congress. The bill before us was first ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez. Mr. Rodriguez was a na- in our country, I encourage my colleagues to introduced on March 6, 2008 and was tive Puerto Rican who overcame the obstacles join with me and honor Mr. Juan Antonio ‘‘Chi- taken up by the Committee on Over- of poverty and became recognized as a re- Chi’’ Rodriguez. sight and Government Reform on June nowned professional golfer, and a true inspira- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, we have 12, 2008 where the measure was amend- tion to the Latino community. no further requests for time, and I ed and then passed by a voice vote. Mr. Rodriguez has had nothing less than an yield back the balance of my time. A native of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, exceptional career as a professional golfer. Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- Juan ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez is recog- Among his many accomplishments, Mr. er, we have no further requests for nized as one of the greatest golfers of Rodriguez has a total of 38 professional wins, time, I urge passage of this resolution, our time, and he is the first Puerto including 8 PGA tour wins, 22 Senior PGA and I yield back the balance of my Rican professional golfer to be in- wins, and wins in the Bahamas, Colombia, time. ducted into the World Golf Hall of and in Panama. Because of Chi-Chi’s distin- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Fame. With over 37 professional golf guished sportsmanship throughout his career, question is on the motion offered by wins, including 8 PGA tour wins and 22 in 1989 he was awarded the Bob Jones the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Senior PGA tour wins, Mr. Rodriguez Award, which is the highest award given by DAVIS) that the House suspend the rose from sugarcane cutter to world-re- the United States Golf Association. In 1989, rules and agree to the resolution, H. nowned professional golfer and youth he was also awarded the Tom Morris Award, Res. 1029, as amended. advocate, which is a great indication of from the Golf Course Superintendents Asso- The question was taken. one who need not be so concerned ciation of America. In 1992, Chi-Chi was in- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the about where one comes from but in rec- ducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame This opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being ognizing where one will be going. was a remarkable accomplishment because in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Mr. Rodriguez, obviously, went to the he was the first Puerto Rican honored into this Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, on that I very top. Not only did he stand out as elite group. demand the yeas and nays. a professional golfer, but as a humani- Mr. Rodriguez has not only been an inspira- The yeas and nays were ordered. tarian and as an individual who gave tion on the course, but through his charitable The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- back and gave to others, he will always work as well. He established the ‘‘Chi-Chi ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the be renowned and remembered. Rodriguez Youth Foundation’’, an after school Chair’s prior announcement, further I commend my colleague for intro- program at the Glen Oaks Golf Course in proceedings on this motion will be ducing this resolution. Clearwater, Florida. Chi-Chi and his staff work postponed.

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His County Mayo, Ireland, and John lived in Cleveland, Ohio, as the ‘‘John P. service is a virtual core sample of the with his father and took care of him Gallagher Post Office Building’’. big moments in the European theater. for many years before he passed. John The Clerk read the title of the bill. ‘‘He was in North Africa after Gen- is very involved in the Irish commu- The text of the bill is as follows: eral Eisenhower led the Operation nity and is someone who has great re- H.R. 6150 Torch Landings, in Sicily briefly, and spect across the city of Cleveland and Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- then in Italy for the Rome-Arno cam- throughout Cuyahoga County. resentatives of the United States of America in paign. He was at the little-known place When we name post offices, we often Congress assembled, in England called Slapton Sands, where name post offices after very famous SECTION 1. JOHN P. GALLAGHER POST OFFICE GIs practicing for the invasion of people, after people who are politicians BUILDING. France were surprised and slaughtered and are in public service, but we don’t (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the by German torpedo boats. Then there United States Postal Service located at 14500 often get the opportunity to recognize Lorain Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio, shall be was Normandy, the Battle of the Bulge the work of someone who, a World War known and designated as the ‘‘John P. Galla- in the Ardennes region of Belgium, and II vet who served his country with gher Post Office Building’’. a Rhine River crossing.’’ honor, who continued in public service (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, For his service in the 1st Engineer for many years and who today, like so map, regulation, document, paper, or other Special Brigade, along with the other many members of that greatest genera- record of the United States to the facility re- members of the brigade, he received an tion, just kind of wait their turn to be ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to exceptional honor during World War II. be a reference to the ‘‘John P. Gallagher called to an even higher service. Post Office Building’’. Charles de Gaulle, then the General This is a great opportunity for the Army and Chief of State, Major Gen- House of Representatives to show that The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- eral of National Defense for France, the kind of people who make up this ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- sent this commendation for John Gal- country, that the kind of people who linois (Mr. DAVIS) and the gentleman lagher’s unit: ‘‘For exceptional services have served this country and made it from California (Mr. ISSA) each will of war rendered during the course of the great Nation that it is, deserve rec- control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman the operations for the liberation of ognition. And so for that reason I put from Illinois. France, the 1st Engineer Special Bri- forth this bill honoring the life and gade, including all units assigned or at- service of John P. Gallagher through GENERAL LEAVE tached, which were part of the Assault Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- naming this post office after him. Force U and which were engaged in the Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield er, I ask unanimous consent that all assault on Normandy beaches, this ci- myself such time as I may consume. Members may have 5 legislative days tation is of the order of and confers the Madam Speaker, I join with my in which to revise and extend their re- Croix de Guerre with Palm, May 25, friend and colleague from Ohio in urg- marks. ing support for H.R. 6150 to name the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there 1945,’’ signed Charles de Gaulle. This was a much-decorated unit, but post office in Cleveland, Ohio, in honor objection to the request of the gen- this was a man who after he finished of John P. Gallagher. Like the gentleman from Illinois? There was no objection. his service to our country he then went tleman, I am also a Clevelander born Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- to serve our country in another way, at and raised. Like many of us in the er, it is my pleasure to yield such time the city of Cleveland. room, I know what Mr. Gallagher came as he might consume to the author of He was employed by the city of home to after World War II. He came this resolution, the gentleman from Cleveland for 30 years. He worked his home to a Cleveland that had helped Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH). way up to become Superintendent of win the war. He came home to a Cleve- Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I Sidewalks. Those of you who are famil- land in which women had come out of want to thank my colleague from Illi- iar with big cities can understand that their homes to work in all of the major nois and Mr. ISSA. I rise in strong sup- when a city has thousands of miles of plants. They worked in auto plants port of H.R. 6150, the bill that renames sidewalks, it is very important for that were now making tanks. They the post office at 14500 Lorain Avenue those who deliver the mail, as well as worked in the steel mills. In fact, in Cleveland, Ohio, as the ‘‘John P. people in the neighborhood, to have Cleveland won the war both by the men Gallagher Post Office Building.’’ I someone who pays attention to make it sent off to war, and by the men and would like to again thank the chair- sure that this infrastructure is kept in women who stayed home and worked man of the Federal Workforce, Postal shape. That was John Gallagher’s job. those heavy industries. Service and District of Columbia Sub- He served for six mayors of Cleveland, So I very much believe it is appro- committee and his helpful staff for and he did such a good job that when priate and vital that we recognize the working with me on this bill. he retired in 1987 he was honored by the Cleveland workforce that made Amer- I am proud to have sponsored this city of Cleveland in a special com- ica great and won World War II. And, bill to honor Mr. Gallagher’s lifetime mendation from then-Mayor John in fact, the common man, who did the of devotion to public service. Let me Voinovich. uncommon thing, that was all too com- share with you the story of this man Mr. Gallagher is someone whose serv- mon in World War II, and that is going who was a member of what Tom ice to the community went far beyond off and fighting for your country while Brokaw called ‘‘The Greatest Genera- his work for the city of Cleveland. He others stayed home and made sure that tion.’’ was one of the primary advocates for the tanks, the steel, the tires all came This is a quote from an article that the inclusion of programs for seniors in to the battle. was published on June 6, 2004. The sub- the city of Cleveland’s Gun and Recre- And as a Clevelander, I recognized heading was, ‘‘Like dwindling World ation Center. He actually led the that Cleveland ran on resources. Cleve- War II comrades, vet shuns hoopla.’’ charge to create new programs for sen- land ran on coal and iron ore. And yes, ‘‘John P. Gallagher is one of the men ior citizens. Cleveland ran and used to run very well we honor today. He is a proud veteran, His home is across the street from a on oil and natural gas, in addition to but is also impatient with the embroi- city park where he actually for the coal, that made our steel mills work dery and rhetoric that lingers after the neighborhood for years has kept an eye and that made our auto companies smoke clears and the dead are buried. on the park. He has been a lifelong pa- produce. ‘‘So the man who dodged bombs, bul- rishioner of St. Vincent DePaul Parish, Cleveland no longer runs that way. lets and a bad heart was asked whether and he is a fixture each and every Cleveland is, in fact, a city that is now

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Then I continue to reserve. question is on the motion offered by would hope that we also turn our focus Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. to the need to deal with these natural er, I yield to the gentleman from Ohio DAVIS) that the House suspend the resources that we now import, the cop- (Mr. KUCINICH) for such time as he may rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6150. per we import, the coal that if we don’t consume. The question was taken. change we will soon be importing, cer- Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, in The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the tainly the steel mills that have gone to furtherance of describing the kind of opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Korea; and yes, the half a trillion dol- man that we are honoring here today, in the affirmative, the ayes have it. lars a year of oil that we are importing when the war was over and people went Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I object from countries often hostile to us sim- back about their business, John Galla- to the vote on the ground that a ply because we are not willing to open gher had this idea that he should bring quorum is not present and make the up exploration on our 2 billion-plus together all of his brothers who served point of order that a quorum is not acres of Federal land. together under these conditions of present. So I join with my colleague in strong World War II and to find a way so they The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- support of remembering what made could reconnect. And so he was in ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the America and Cleveland great, and I ask charge of organizing this group. And Chair’s prior announcement, further that we join together and do that again for a period of 1963 all of the way proceedings on this motion will be by passing comprehensive land oppor- through the year 2000, a period of 37 un- postponed. tunities for oil so that we too can be broken years, this band of brothers The point of no quorum is considered self-sufficient, as we were when Mr. came together year after year after withdrawn. Gallagher came home from World War year under John Gallagher’s leadership f II. and organization and renewed not just GERALD R. FORD POST OFFICE I reserve the balance of my time. their friendship but their dedication to BUILDING Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Madam Speak- the cause of service to their Nation. er, I yield myself such time as I may John Gallagher also participated in a Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I consume. very important endeavor where he move to suspend the rules and pass the Madam Speaker, as a member of the helped to organize his friends from bill (H.R. 6085) to designate the facility House Committee on Oversight and across the country from the 1st Engi- of the United States Postal Service lo- Government Reform, I am pleased to neer Special Brigade to raise the funds cated at 42222 Rancho Las Palmas join my colleagues in the consideration to erect a monument which was on a Drive in Rancho Mirage, California, as of H.R. 6150 which asks that we des- German pill box on Normandy Beach in the ‘‘Gerald R. Ford Post Office Build- ignate a postal facility in Cleveland France with contributions from mem- ing’’. after Mr. John Gallagher who served bers of the 1st Engineer Special Bri- The Clerk read the title of the bill. that city faithfully for over 30 years. gade and under supervision of the bri- The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 6150, which was introduced by gade commander. H.R. 6085 Representative DENNIS KUCINICH on b 1645 Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- May 22, 2008, was reported favorably resentatives of the United States of America in from the Oversight Committee on June And inside the walls were plaques Congress assembled, 12 by voice vote. bearing the names of the men of the SECTION 1. GERALD R. FORD POST OFFICE The measure, which will name a post unit who died in battle. BUILDING. office after a truly humble and dedi- The time comes when this generation (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the United States Postal Service located at 42222 cated civil servant, has the support and will fade into memory. But those individuals who are still alive need to be Rancho Las Palmas Drive in Rancho Mirage, sponsorship of the entire Ohio congres- California, shall be known and designated as sional delegation. forever reminded of the great gratitude the ‘‘Gerald R. Ford Post Office Building’’. John Gallagher has been described as that this country has for them, not (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, a man who served his country and the just putting their lives on the line, but map, regulation, document, paper, or other city of Cleveland with dignity for his the youth of their lives on the line, for record of the United States to the facility re- entire life. At the age of 19, he joined showing a continual love of country, ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to the U.S. Army where he fought bravely for showing love for each other and be a reference to the ‘‘Gerald R. Ford Post Office Building’’. in Europe during World War II. After their fellow soldiers. his years of service, he returned to his I am so proud to be here to ask for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, where he your support because, in recognizing ant to the rule, the gentleman from would work for the city government for John Gallagher, we recognize all those New York (Mr. HIGGINS) and the gen- over 30 years, rising through the ranks who served who still remain with us for tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each to become Cleveland’s Superintendent serving through their love of country. will control 20 minutes. of Sidewalks. Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield The Chair recognizes the gentleman Mr. Gallagher did not regard his com- myself just 1 minute to thank the gen- from New York. mitment to the city of Cleveland as tleman from Ohio (Mr. KUCINICH). I GENERAL LEAVE anything extraordinary, but that he think often the famous get post offices Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I ask was simply doing his job, that’s all. named after themselves; but I would unanimous consent that all Members Like many public sector workers in our like to comment that the gentleman have 5 legislative days in which to re- country, Mr. Gallagher devoted his life has done a wonderful job, Madam vise and extend their remarks. to serving and working on behalf of his Speaker, of making someone less fa- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there fellow citizens. mous, but equally deserving, the sub- objection to the request of the gen- Therefore, Madam Speaker, let us ex- ject of today and the subject of this tleman from New York? tend a small token of our appreciation post office. There was no objection. for the work of this outstanding gen- And so once again I’d like to con- Mr. HIGGINS. I yield myself such tleman by passing H.R. 6150 which will gratulate my colleague, not only on se- time as I may consume. rename the postal facility on Lorain lecting somebody, but on doing a good As a member of the House Committee Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio, as the John job of making sure that we understood on Oversight and Government Reform, P. Gallagher Post Office Building. just who he was and what he contrib- I join my colleague in the consider- I reserve the balance of my time. uted. ation and support of H.R. 6085, which

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names a postal facility in Rancho Mi- up the job of minority leader to become DAVIS for their support of H.R. 6085, which will rage, California, after the late Presi- the Vice President and almost imme- designate a postal facility in Rancho Mirage, dent Gerald R. Ford. diately became the President. CA, as the ‘Gerald R. Ford Post Office Build- H.R. 6085, which was introduced by Gerald Ford, as the 38th President of ing.’ It is because of their efforts, along with our colleague, Congresswoman MARY the United States, enjoyed the dubious those of Subcommittee Chairman DAVIS and BONO MACK of California, on May 20, honor of being the only President not Ranking Member MARCHANT, that this legisla- 2008, was reported from the Oversight to have run for President or Vice Presi- tion was able to move so quickly through the Committee on June 12, 2008, by voice dent. But he didn’t let that stop him. Committee and comes before us today. vote. He was not an unelected president but, Madam Speaker, I recently introduced H.R. H.R. 6085 is sponsored by 113 Members rather, he was a President who had a 6085 to honor President Gerald R. Ford and of Congress, including 51 Members from mandate to heal the Nation. He was a pay tribute to his remarkable life and career as the California delegation. This bill be- President who had a mandate to deal our 38th President. I am grateful to the more fore us does more than just redesignate with a post-Vietnam, post-Richard than 100 of my Colleagues who have joined one of our post offices. It provides the Nixon period. He did so not only by me in this effort to commemorate President entire House an opportunity to, once pardoning Richard Nixon, something Ford’s life by naming a post office located in again, pay tribute to one of our Na- that undoubtedly cost him his own Rancho Mirage, CA, in my District, as the Ger- tion’s leaders and former Presidents, election, but, in fact, he did so recog- ald R. Ford Post Office. the Honorable Gerald Ford. nizing that America’s healing was This is an especially meaningful piece of Gerald Ford’s public service career more important than politics. legislation to me and many of the residents of began back in 1948 when he was elected Today, as we recognize Gerald Ford, I our District. As many of my Colleagues may to represent Michigan’s Fifth Congres- would like to just briefly explain that know, President Ford and his family resided in sional District. From there, the late I didn’t know him as President. I didn’t Rancho Mirage for many years before his President Ford ended up serving 25 get to vote for him, of course, as Presi- passing. Naming Ford’s local post office in his years in the House of Representatives, dent. I didn’t meet him until 1996, when honor is a tribute to this great man and his including 8 years as minority leader of we were doing the Republican conven- many accomplishments. the House. tion in San Diego, and his son, Jack, President Ford and former First Lady, Betty Forced to assume the office of the was the executive director for that. Ford, were active members of our local com- United States Presidency under what And a then aged Gerald Ford came out munity, generously contributing to the better- he described as extraordinary cir- simply to support his son and to sup- ment of our residents with their involvement in cumstances, the late President Gerald port what we were trying to do in San charities and support for the successful Betty Ford conducted his presidency with Diego. He came out repeatedly to help Ford Center for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. honesty and integrity. us, help us in the fund raising, but President Ford regularly connected with resi- During his years of service to our more importantly, help his son who he dents and participated with local leaders. country, President Ford often re- still, at that age, was trying to make Many locals remember him as a friend and pil- minded people that he considered him- sure that he went even further than his lar of our community. self ‘‘a moderate in domestic affairs, a father. President Ford’s many lifetime achieve- conservative in fiscal affairs, and a Gerald Ford was the kind a person ments included serving our country during dyed-in-the-wool internationalist in who stayed focused on basics through- WWII, rising to the rank of Naval Lieutenant foreign affairs.’’ out his life. One of the basics here in Commander, and serving in Congress for 25 With his wife, Elizabeth Ford, by his America is our need for energy, our years, eight of which he was the Minority side, on December 26, 2006, President need for the natural resources to be do- Leader in the U.S. House of Representatives. Ford succumbed to his death at the age mestic, not imported. Gerald Ford un- As President, he led our citizens during a time of 93, but his mark on our country con- derstood that. of war, economic uncertainty, and low moral. tinues to live on. During Gerald Ford’s time our debt With his steady direction, he worked to unify Madam Speaker, I’d like to thank the was internally held. We had just come our nation during a tumultuous time in our na- gentlewoman from California for offer- off of a balanced budget in 1969 and tion’s history. ing the bill in support of renaming the were near a balanced budget for his He was one of our most respected leaders, Rancho Mirage Post Office after the years. And more importantly, the vast and worked on many fronts to bring together late President Gerald Ford and in rec- majority of our oil was, in fact, domes- our citizens and strengthen our trust in Amer- ognition of his many contributions to tic. ica’s future. Years after his service as Com- America, both while in office and out. As a matter of fact, although we did mander-in-Chief, President Ford continued I urge swift passage of this measure. have Aramco operating in Saudi Ara- serving as a source of wise counsel to leaders I reserve the balance of my time. bia, it was an income stream to the throughout our nation and the world. President Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield United States and the oil, for the most Ford was always willing to offer me insight myself such time as I may consume. part, did not come to America. and guidance when I came to Congress, and Madam Speaker, I urge the passage Additionally, the Prudhoe Bay was I will forever treasure his shared wisdom. of H.R. 6058 to designate the U.S. post coming on line at that time, and Amer- As a cherished resident of our District, were office at 42222 Rancho Las Palmas ica’s likelihood of getting its oil from many locals called him a friend, President Drive in Rancho Mirage, California, as its own country made more sense. Ford is most deserving of the honor that this the Gerald R. Ford Post Office Build- Many people do not understand, as Gerald R. Ford Post Office will bring him and ing. Gerald Ford certainly would have un- his family. Throughout his life, Gerald Ford was derstood, that Alaska was larger than I ask that my colleagues, who wish to com- a patriot and a civil servant. Through- Saudi Arabia, and that oil reserves memorate the legacy of President Ford, join out his life he had a ‘‘can do’’ attitude, every bit as plentiful in some areas as me in naming the post office near his resi- whether it was attending the Univer- Saudi Arabia should be gleaned from dence after this exemplary American. sity of Michigan where he played ball our 50th State. Thank you, Madam Speaker, and I ask for and was quite an athlete, or upon grad- So as we honor and remember Gerald the support of Members from both sides of the uation from the University of Michi- Ford and name this post office after aisle for H.R. 6085, legislation I am proud to gan, when he had the opportunity to him, let’s also remember the time, not have authored. play for the NFL, he declined the offer too long ago, when Gerald Ford was Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield and instead attended the Yale Law President, and America was self-suffi- back the balance of my time. School where he gained a skill that he cient. America had not yet fallen into Mr. HIGGINS. We urge passage and used the rest of his life. the melees that it found itself in just a yield back, Madam Speaker. He then served 4 years in World War few years later when OPEC turned off The SPEAKER pro tempore. The II, and, like many people, came home the oil and America went cold. question is on the motion offered by from World War II with a ‘‘can do’’ at- Mrs. BONO MACK. Madam Speaker, I the gentleman from New York (Mr. titude, served his district of Michigan would first like to take this opportunity to thank HIGGINS) that the House suspend the for 25 years, and as we all know, gave Chairman WAXMAN and Ranking Member rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6085.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5440 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 The question was taken. (A) history should be regarded as a means b 1700 The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the for understanding the past and more effec- For more than 135 years, Juneteenth tively facing the challenges of the future; opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Independence Day celebrations have in the affirmative, the ayes have it. and (B) the celebration of the end of slavery is been held to honor not only the free- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I object dom of African Americans but also to to the vote on the ground that a an important and enriching part of the history and heritage of the United States. encourage self-development and re- quorum is not present and make the spect for all cultures. point of order that a quorum is not The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ant to the rule, the gentleman from Juneteenth has been recognized as ei- present. ther a State holiday or observance in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- New York (Mr. HIGGINS) and the gen- Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Delaware, ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each Idaho, Alaska, Iowa, California, Wyo- Chair’s prior announcement, further will control 20 minutes. ming, Missouri, Connecticut, Illinois, proceedings on this motion will be The Chair recognizes the gentleman Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, Col- postponed. from New York. orado, Arkansas, Oregon, Kentucky, The point of no quorum is considered GENERAL LEAVE withdrawn. Michigan, New Mexico, Virginia, Wash- Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I ask ington, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and f unanimous consent that all Members North Carolina, as well as the District RECOGNIZING JUNETEENTH have 5 legislative days in which to re- of Columbia. INDEPENDENCE DAY vise and extend their remarks. The faith and strength of character The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there demonstrated by former slaves remains Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I objection to the request of the gen- move to suspend the rules and agree to an example for all Americans, regard- tleman from New York? the resolution (H. Res. 1237) recog- less of background, religion, or race. There was no objection. nizing the historical significance of Madam Speaker, I ask that we, too, Mr. HIGGINS. I yield myself such Juneteenth Independence Day, and ex- show our support for Juneteenth Inde- time as I may consume. pressing the sense of the House of Rep- pendence Day by agreeing to adopt Madam Speaker, as a member of the resentatives that history should be re- H.R. 1237 without reservation. House Committee on Oversight and garded as a means for understanding I reserve the balance of my time. Government Reform, I present for con- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield the past and more effectively facing sideration H.R. 1237, which recognizes myself such time as I may consume. the challenges of the future. Madam Speaker, I, too, rise in sup- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, and export of this resolution. tion. Certainly history is replete with ex- The text of the resolution is as fol- presses the sense of the House of Rep- amples like this where well-intended, lows: resentatives that history should be re- strong statements are made and then H. RES. 1237 garded as a means for understanding the past and more effectively facing as much as 2 years passes before the Whereas news of the end of slavery did not event becomes complete. Juneteenth is reach frontier areas of the United States, the challenges of the future. H.R. 1237 was introduced on June 4, no exception to that. and in particular the Southwestern States, More than 2 years after the Emanci- for more than 2 years after President Lin- 2008, and has over 70 Members of Con- coln’s Emancipation Proclamation of Janu- gress who also support Juneteenth, or pation Proclamation, it took 2,000 Fed- ary 1, 1863, and months after the conclusion what many call Freedom Day or Eman- eral soldiers marching into Galveston of the Civil War; cipation Day. The measure was consid- Island in order to free slaves from ser- Whereas on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers ered and reported from the Oversight vitude. So as we look at what we need led by Major General Gordon Granger ar- Committee on June 12, 2008, by voice to do here in Congress today, let us not rived in Galveston, Texas, with news that vote, which brings us to today’s floor be dissuaded from doing what is right the Civil War had ended and that the because it may take time. Let us not enslaved were free; consideration of the measure. Most of us are aware, Madam Speak- be dissuaded from making sure that Whereas African-Americans who had been America has its freedom and independ- slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 19, er, Juneteenth commemorates the day ence assured by our own independence commonly known as Juneteenth Independ- Union General Gordon Granger and in all areas, including natural re- ence Day, as the anniversary of their eman- 2,000 Federal troops arrived at the Gal- cipation; sources. veston Island, Texas to take possession I certainly think more than 100 years Whereas African-Americans from the of the State and enforce the emanci- Southwest continue the tradition of 1 after the Civil War, we can celebrate Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration pation of its slaves 2 ⁄2 years after the the successes of the Civil War; but we and encouragement for future generations; enactment of the Emancipation Proc- also have an obligation to deal with Whereas for more than 135 years, lamation. problems that might take 4 or 5 years Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations On June 19, 1865 General Granger of domestic exploration and domestic have been held to honor African-American read the following Order Number 3: investment in oil and natural gas in freedom while encouraging self-development ‘‘The people of Texas are informed and respect for all cultures; order to bear fruit. But I would ask that, in accordance with the proclama- today that we resolve to begin that Whereas although Juneteenth Independ- tion from the Executive of the United ence Day is beginning to be recognized as a process because certainly, as we look national, and even global, event, the history States, all slaves are free. This in- at President Abraham Lincoln who behind the celebration should not be forgot- volves an absolute equality of personal knew that the Emancipation Procla- ten; and rights and rights of property between mation would not immediately free Whereas the faith and strength of char- former masters and slaves, and the slaves but, in fact, would make a acter demonstrated by former slaves remains connection heretofore existing between an example for all people of the United strong statement that we were resolved them becomes that between employer to do so. States, regardless of background, religion, or and hired laborer. The freedmen are ad- race: Now, therefore, be it I would hope today as we pass this Resolved, That— vised to remain quietly at their present important piece of legislation, we (1) the House of Representatives recognizes homes and work for wages. They are would resolve to make sure that Amer- the historical significance of Juneteenth informed that they will not be allowed ica is independent and free in the years Independence Day to the Nation; to collect at military posts, and that to come. (2) the House of Representatives supports they will not be supported in idleness With that, I reserve the balance of the continued celebration of Juneteenth either there or elsewhere.’’ my time. Independence Day to provide an opportunity In receipt of this message, African Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I now for the people of the United States to learn Americans who had been slaves in the more about the past and to better under- yield to the gentlewoman from Texas stand the experiences that have shaped the Southwest celebrated June 19 as the (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) for as much time as Nation; and anniversary of their emancipation, and she may consume. (3) it is the sense of the House of Rep- continued the tradition to inspire and Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I thank resentatives that— encourage future generations. the distinguished gentleman from New

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5441 York, and I thank the original author that is, of course, drugs and crime and helps us solve challenges we face in the fu- of this legislation, the gentleman from poverty. And I hope that this Congress, ture, and that the celebration of the end of Tennessee (Mr. DAVIS), and I thank the in passing this legislation, will renew slavery is an important part of the history and distinguished Speaker for her leader- our commitment to ridding this Nation heritage of the United States. ship as well, and my colleagues. of drugs and the devastation of how it Madam Speaker, Juneteenth has long been Congressman HIGGINS, this is destroys families and that we will com- recognized as the day to celebrate the end of Juneteenth Week for those of us who mit ourselves to building housing, we slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is the come from the States in which we will commit ourselves to educating our traditional celebration of the day on which the honor this very special holiday. And so children, we will commit ourselves to last slaves in America learned they had been it is very special to stand today to ac- building our families, we will commit freed. knowledge how important, how moving ourselves to peace, because that’s what Although slavery was abolished officially in a time this is, particularly in the State an emancipation means: Emancipating 1863, it took over 2 years for news of freedom of Texas where Major Granger landed yourselves from things that were to spread to slaves. On June 19th, 1865, U.S. in Galveston 2 years after the Emanci- wrong, that were ill. General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, pation Proclamation, which means The Emancipation Proclamation rid Texas and announced that the State’s that the slaves that were held in the this Nation of slavery. Its dastardly ef- 200,000 slaves were free. Vowing never to State of Texas were held 2 years longer fects still continue even today as it forget the date, the former slaves coined the than any slaves in the United States in separates races and religions, but we nickname Juneteenth, a blend of the words the region in which slavery was the have a commitment as the United June and 19th. This holiday originated in the law. I would like to acknowledge Rep. States Congress to use this floor today Southwest, but today it is celebrated through- Al Edwards who is the Father of the to be able to stand against what was a out the Nation. Juneteenth Holiday in Texas. horrific time in the history of America H. Res. 1237 underscores that the observ- So we hold this as a sacred time, a where we held slaves, we debased them, ance of Juneteenth Independence Day is an time of jubilee and celebration, but and we rejected humanity and human opportunity for all Americans to learn more also of pain and anguish for knowing rights and dignity; but now we must about our common past and to better under- that we were held in bondage in the come and respect through this resolu- stand the experiences that have shaped our State of Texas for a period of time tion. great Nation. I urge my colleagues to support longer than the time that was declared So I thank the Congressman for his this important resolution. by the President of the United States, leadership on managing this bill. I par- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I have no Abraham Lincoln. ticularly pay tribute to my colleague further speakers, and I yield back the I’m delighted to be one of the origi- and friend, Congressman DANNY DAVIS, balance of my time. nal cosponsors to acknowledge what and to all of my constituents in the Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I this day really means. And as we cele- State of Texas who will now celebrate urge passage, and I yield back the bal- brate it throughout the week in Texas, this day with a gospel celebration on ance of my time. this past weekend I celebrated with the Saturday, a parade on Saturday, and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Acres Home Community and their many, many family reunions around question is on the motion offered by Juneteenth celebration and the Zydeco the idea of being emancipated. the gentleman from New York (Mr. Let us live freedom. Let us stand for music and the fun that seniors and HIGGINS) that the House suspend the freedom by building this Nation free of children alike would have in fellowship rules and agree to the resolution, H. the ills of drugs and poor housing and and understanding our history. Res. 1237. poverty and war, and that will truly be And many people don’t recognize The question was taken. a commemoration of Juneteenth be- that it is as important a date as might The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the cause Juneteenth is a freedom, and it be days that we commemorate Black opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being is emancipation. History Month, special days such as in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Mr. PAUL. Madam Speaker, I am pleased to the acknowledgment and the celebra- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I object support H. Res. 1237, legislation commemo- tion of the birthday of Dr. Martin Lu- to the vote on the ground that a rating a monumental day in the history of lib- ther King, or the 40th anniversary of quorum is not present and make the erty, Juneteenth Independence Day. point of order that a quorum is not the signing of the Civil Rights bill or Juneteenth marks the events of June 19, the March on Washington or the tragic present. 1865, when slaves in Galveston, Texas The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- assassination of Dr. King, and this hap- learned that they were at last free men and pens to be the 40th year. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the women. The slaves of Galveston were the last Chair’s prior announcement, further It is a time when we renew ourselves group of slaves to learn of the end of slavery. in having a respect for freedom. And proceedings on this motion will be Thus, Juneteenth represents the end of slav- postponed. Major Granger, who came and acknowl- ery in America. edged, gave way to decades and years The point of no quorum is considered I hope all Americans will take the time to withdrawn. of celebration. commemorate Juneteenth. Friends of human He also gave way to something called liberty should celebrate the end of slavery in f Freedom Watch on New Year’s Eve. any country. The end of American slavery is HONORING THE LIFE OF TIMOTHY Many people believe that is a celebra- particularly worthy of recognition since there JOHN RUSSERT, JR. tion for the new year. But in old years are few more blatant violations of America’s Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I or years back, black churches used to founding principles, as expressed in the Dec- watch on New Year’s Eve calling it move to suspend the rules and agree to laration of Independence, than slavery. I am the resolution (H. Res. 1275) honoring Freedom Watch to be able to celebrate particularly pleased to join the recognition of freedom; and it was the idea of know- the life of Timothy John Russert, Jr., Juneteenth because I have the privilege of public servant, political analyst, and ing that on January 1, 1863, the slaves representing Galveston. would be free. author. I thank the gentleman from Illinois for intro- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- This is a time to acknowledge that ducing this resolution. I thank the House lead- our history should be remembered, tion. ership for bringing this resolution to the floor, The text of the resolution is as fol- that we should teach it to our children, and I urge all of my colleagues to honor the lows: that we should take this history to end of slavery by voting for H. Res 1237. H. RES. 1275 ourselves, if we will, embed it in our Mr. SHAYS. Madam Speaker, I rise in hearts and our souls, and make sure strong support of House Resolution 1237, Whereas Tim Russert was born in Buffalo, that as we embed it, that we live what which recognizes the historic significance of New York, on May 7, 1950; Whereas Tim Russert graduated from this history stands for. It stands for de- Juneteenth Independence Day and encour- Canisius High School in Buffalo, John Car- termination, tenacity, strength, char- ages its continued celebration so all Ameri- roll University in University Heights, Ohio, acter, integrity. cans can learn more about our country’s past. and the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law And we must fight against all of The resolution also rightly expresses the in Cleveland, Ohio, and received 48 honorary these things that enslave us now, and sense of Congress that knowing our history doctorate degrees;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5442 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 Whereas Tim Russert served as special The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there his interviews of leading national po- counsel to Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan objection to the request of the gen- litical figures. from 1977 to 1982 and counselor to Governor tleman from New York? As the former Washington bureau Mario Cuomo from 1983 to 1984; There was no objection. chief of the Wall Street Journal stated, Whereas Tim Russert began his celebrated career in journalism with the National Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I Tim Russert ‘‘really was the best polit- Broadcasting Company in 1984, reporting yield myself such time as I may con- ical journalist in America, not just the from South America, Australia, China, and sume. best television journalist in America.’’ Rome, where he arranged for the first live Madam Speaker, it’s with a heavy Accordingly, it is my hope that we appearance on American television by Pope heart that I call up for consideration will join the citizens of this country in John Paul II; H. Res. 1275 which honors the life of recognizing and honoring the contribu- Whereas in 1991, Tim Russert was named legendary journalist Tim Russert tions of a great American, Timothy moderator of ‘‘Meet the Press’’, the longest- whose life slipped away suddenly on John Russert, Junior. running program in the history of television; Friday, June 13, 2008. I would like to Whereas Tim Russert served masterfully as H. Res. 1275 formally expresses our anchor and political analyst, and earned a thank the Committee on Oversight and deepest condolences upon the death of reputation as a tenacious yet fair inter- Government Reform Ranking Member Timothy John Russert, Junior, and ex- viewer of his guests, who included the lead- TOM DAVIS and also Committee Chair pends our sympathies to his wife ing political candidates, holders of public of- HENRY WAXMAN. Maureen and his son Luke for their fice, and newsmakers of the day; That said, it is with profound regret loss. It is a loss that will certainly im- Whereas Tim Russert moderated presi- that I stand before you on the floor of pact all of us for quite some time to dential debates with the same dogged yet re- the House today to mourn and com- come. spectful manner with which he conducted his memorate the life of Tim Russert, an interviews, and in so doing provided a valu- Madam Speaker, earlier today, I at- able service to American voters; icon of America’s media for nearly two tended at St. Albans the viewing serv- Whereas Tim Russert was a successful au- decades. Mr. Russert died on Friday ice for Tim Russert with Erie County thor, and his moving books ‘‘Big Russ and after collapsing at NBC’s Washington, Clerk Kathy Hochul, a trusted friend, Me’’ and ‘‘Wisdom of our Fathers’’ became D.C., home of ‘‘Meet the Press’’ at age former colleague, and student intern of New York Times bestsellers; 58. Tim Russert. The tribute based on a Whereas Tim Russert won an Emmy Award While Tim Russert was a former line that was extending around the for his coverage of the funeral of President Democratic congressional staffer, campus is extraordinary and profound Ronald Reagan; he also won the Radio and Washington bureau chief, and senior to recognize his life. Television Correspondents’ Joan S. Barone vice president of NBC News, the world Award, the Annenberg Center’s Walter I would like to leave you with the Cronkite Award, and the Edward R. Murrow knew him best as the host of the fa- story about Tim Russert and how he Award for Overall Excellence in Television mous Sunday morning news show made it to Washington from his native Journalism for his interviews of leading na- ‘‘Meet the Press.’’ Buffalo. Tim Russert would always tell tional political figures; In addition to his professional jour- that story to highlight the importance Whereas Tim Russert sat in the front seat nalism accomplishments, Mr. Russert of the working-class values that were of world history, chronicling the domestic was also a best-selling author, penning instilled in him by his father, Big Russ. and international political events that have the New York Times best-selling mem- It was the blizzard of 1977 when 3 feet defined our time, deftly describing and ana- oir ‘‘Big Russ & Me’’ and ‘‘Wisdom of lyzing these events for millions of Ameri- of snow fell on Buffalo with extraor- cans; Our Fathers.’’ dinary winds. Tim Russert was working Whereas Tim Russert was a man of devoted From his chair at ‘‘Meet the Press,’’ for Daniel Patrick Moynihan at the and humble faith who believed in the value Mr. Russert demonstrated his dedica- time. Moynihan had come to Buffalo to of a Jesuit education and who called himself tion to Democracy, his passion for poli- survey the damage from the blizzard. ‘‘a respectful servant in the laity of the tics, his admiration for fairness, hon- church’’; esty, and humanity. Mr. Russert’s en- b 1715 Whereas Tim Russert powerfully advocated thusiasm for journalism and politics He was so impressed with Tim on behalf of abused children and voiced the earned him the respect and acclaim of Russert, Senator Moynihan said, ‘‘Tim, need to protect our Nation’s young people, you have to come to Washington; you serving on the board of directors of the Boys so many Americans, including myself and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington and and many of my colleagues. have great qualities that will serve you America’s Promise Alliance; Born in Buffalo, New York, on May 7, very well there, and you can be with Whereas Tim Russert was a prominent 1950, Tim Russert received his under- me on my staff.’’ booster of Buffalo and a famous fan of his be- graduate degree from John Carroll Uni- Russert went to Washington and, loved Buffalo Bills; versity, then proceeded to earn a law after a short period of time, was some- Whereas Tim Russert was always proud of degree from Cleveland-Marshall Col- what discouraged. Senator Moynihan his South Buffalo roots and was a source of lege of Law. Over the years, he earned had recognized that he was discouraged civic pride in the western New York commu- 48 honorary doctorate degrees, which and asked him what the problem was. nity; and Whereas Tim Russert’s love for his family serves as further evidence of his pro- Tim said, ‘‘Senator, your staff is made was evident to all who knew him and to lific impact on the world. up of ideologues, Ivy League-educated readers of his books: Now, therefore, be it While Tim Russert sat in the front people, and I’m from a blue collar Resolved, That the House of Representa- seat of world history chronicling the background in Buffalo.’’ Senator Moy- tives— domestic and international political nihan put his arm around Tim and (1) recognizes and honors the contributions events that have defined our time, he said, ‘‘Tim, what they know you can of Timothy John Russert, Jr., as an award- performed his work with great human- learn. What you know, the values of winning political analyst; and (2) expresses its deepest condolences upon ity and quality of character. Tim hard work, of honesty, of love of com- the death of Timothy John Russert, Jr., to Russert had a gift for making the all- munity, of love of family, they can his wife, Maureen Orth, his son, Luke, and too-complex nature of Washington pol- never learn.’’ his surviving family members and friends. itics understandable and compelling It’s with that that Tim Russert start- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- for Americans across our great coun- ed his career in Washington, in both ant to the rule, the gentleman from try. politics first and foremost and then in New York (Mr. HIGGINS) and the gen- In recognition of his work as the journalism. tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each epitome of journalistic talent and de- Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- will control 20 minutes. votion, Tim Russert won an Emmy ance of my time. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Award for his coverage of the funeral of Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield from New York. President Ronald Reagan, the Radio myself as much time as I may con- GENERAL LEAVE and Television Correspondents’ Joan S. sume. Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I ask Barone Award, the Annenberg Center’s Tim Russert was a great man whose unanimous consent that all Members Walter Cronkite Award, and the Ed- time came too early. He had much may have 5 legislative days in which to ward R. Murrow Award for Overall Ex- more to give to us, not just this past revise and extend their remarks. cellence in Television Journalism for Sunday where he would have had JOE

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5443 BIDEN in a one-on-one or a one-on-two journalism. Hometown D.C. is also ex- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield and then brought him to task and periencing its special brand of mourn- myself such time as I may consume. brought his other guests to task. ing. No story of Tim Russert would be But in fact, his legacy will disappear It’s true that Tim Russert always complete if we didn’t talk about the unless we bring ourselves to realize talked about Buffalo and the Buffalo loss we’re going to have this political that the truth should not be a casualty Bills. He never let you forget where he season. Clearly, as BARACK OBAMA and of politics. That’s what Tim Russert was from. It was important to him, JOHN MCCAIN compete for the hearts really brought to bear on ‘‘Meet the where he was from. He identified with and minds of the American people, Press.’’ He made the style about the the Buffalo Bills because he identified we’re going to miss Tim Russert asking truth. He invited Republicans, Demo- with Buffalo and because Buffalo re- the tough questions. We’re going to crats. I think he had Ralph Nader on minded him of his childhood and his miss him undoubtedly at the debates. more than a few times. He made it a church and his working class upbring- Somebody else is going to have to be point to bring in people who were in- ing. there to be fair but tough. teresting, and then he asked them in- The fact is that Tim made his for- Madam Speaker, additionally, we’re teresting questions. And when they an- tune in the District of Columbia and going to miss Tim Russert when it swered, he then brought out the inter- lived in this city. So we adopted Tim comes to the people on both sides of esting fact that they perhaps had not long ago as a resident of the city, the issue of why we have $5 gasoline yet prepared for. He asked them to tell knowing that his heart was back in and $135 oil. I think Tim Russert would the truth, and then if that was not the Buffalo, but he needed a hometown. have been just the right guy to hold truth or if there was more to be heard This was a man who always needed a people accountable, who would talk in the truth, he brought that out. His hometown, and I can tell you he knew about the 68 million acres that are ‘‘in- research was second-to-none. where he lived, and he made me know active’’ while, in fact, 41 million are Now, he certainly seemed to say that he knew where he lived. under current lease and use and are every single week, ‘‘Go Bills.’’ But as a I was, in fact, on his program more producing millions of barrels of oil and Clevelander, I am going to take a little than once and especially remember one natural gas a day, but more impor- liberty today in his name because when of his end-of-the-year programs, where tantly, over 2 billion, 2 billion acres are it came time to go to a fine college, he he kind of looked at the world and not available for exploration and devel- went to John Carroll, a Jesuit college looked at what is going to happen. I opment, including the over 50 miles in the city in which my high school, love it that somehow Tim understood and less than 200 miles off the Cali- or at least allowed me to weave into an Cleveland Heights University High fornia coast. Those miles certainly answer what he expected, which was School, was located. He went there be- could give us the natural gas we need some notion of voting rights that was cause it was a fine education. I’m only to fire our electricity in California at a still necessary in the District of Co- surprised that he learned during those time when we are dangerously close to lumbia. years that it was a little less expensive the lights going out once again. Buffalo and the Buffalo Bills were the So, Madam Speaker, I’m going to to go to John Marshall for his law only things I know that Tim was not miss Tim Russert because this debate school. So he trotted downtown to objective about. His gift was somehow is too important not to have, a fact- Cleveland’s John Marshall, now Cleve- to humanize hard news and subjects for oriented, unbiased moderator who can, land State’s John Marshall Law interviews by reminding us every so in fact, bring to bear the truth that we School. So he was as much a Cleve- often of Buffalo and the Buffalo Bills need to have. lander in his education, in his prepara- and making us laugh and making us With that, I reserve the balance of tion, as he was from Buffalo. know that he was one of us all. At the my time. I think that, in fact, his Cleveland same time, he managed to be a thor- Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I now roots are something we need to under- oughly objective reporter and tough in- yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman stand because one of the most famous terrogator. That, Madam Speaker, is from New York (Ms. SLAUGHTER). things he ever did was predict in 2004 indeed a gift. I don’t know of anyone Ms. SLAUGHTER. Madam Speaker, I that it would be ‘‘Ohio, Ohio, Ohio,’’ else in broadcast who has that gift. thank the gentleman for yielding. that would indicate the outcome of the What was both heartbreaking and I rise with a heavy heart today be- 2004 election. I know, Madam Speaker, heartwarming to hear were the many cause last Friday, one of Buffalo’s most that you’re well aware that Ohio was, personal stories from Tim’s colleagues, cherished sons was taken from us in fact, critical, not Florida. not about their professional work with Today, I join my colleagues in cele- Tim Russert was the kind of person him but about how he related to them brating the life of Tim Russert, whose who really enjoyed that kind of let’s and their families as people. That, in a contributions to journalism and Amer- call the facts to bear, let’s bring them real sense, makes us know that when ican discourse will outlive us all. in, let’s force people to answer tough Tim talked about the Buffalo Bills and As anyone who watched ‘‘Meet the questions. He did so whether you were Buffalo this was always the human Press’’ knows, Tim Russert never for- a Republican or a Democrat. He did so being talking. got where he came from. He was an un- whether or not the outcome was one di- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- abashed and shameless fan of anything rection or the other. tlewoman’s time has expired. Buffalo, and that was fitting. He em- I believe that’s part of his Cleveland Mr. HIGGINS. I yield 1 additional bodied the values of the old steel town: upbringing. I believe it’s what made minute to the gentlewoman from the honesty, integrity, and hard work. In- him great. So he will always be remem- District of Columbia. stead of forgetting them when he came bered for talking about the Buffalo Ms. NORTON. By talking about ‘‘Big to Washington, as so many do, he Bills, but for me, he will always be re- Russ’’ his father and writing about brought Buffalo with him. membered as somebody who was the ‘‘Big Russ,’’ Tim was reminding us that When Tim Russert spoke with some- product of Jesuit education at John he always knew whatever he did on his one, he was making a friend, not climb- Carroll and Cleveland-John Marshall. program, what was important, that ing a ladder. While his career soared, With that, I reserve the balance of family was important. He was not a he stood with his feet solidly on the my time. politician but imagine what kind of ground. A product of his South Buffalo Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I now politician he would have made? Can roots, his character was his trademark yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman you imagine what he would have done and earned him the respect of journal- from the District of Columbia (Ms. in political life? ists and politicians and all Americans NORTON). Tim took an old, respected format alike. Ms. NORTON. I thank the gentleman and made it new. Tim revolutionized Tim Russert didn’t chase ratings by for yielding. his species of broadcast and branded it taking cheap shots. He didn’t distort Professional journalism and millions as his own. his guests’ positions to create a news around the world are in mourning Our hearts are breaking but our story. He always asked fair questions, today and ever since they heard of the hearts go out to Maureen, to Luke, and encouraged open debate, and held poli- passing of one of America’s giants of especially to Tim’s beloved ‘‘Big Russ.’’ ticians accountable to the people who

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5444 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 elected them. He was the epitome of a sports, and passionate about being an So I rise to pay tribute to Tim journalist, sorely lacking today, and American. He loved his Buffalo Bills, Russert for his life and what he gave to his show was the gold standard. Buffalo Sabers, he loved baseball and the process of government, and to And I would be remiss if I didn’t men- he loved horse racing. He loved poli- thank him as well as I watched over tion his role in honoring fatherhood. tics, and he had two great mentors in the weekend in the times that I was Tim Russert reminded Americans of Senator Patrick Moynihan and in Gov- able to see the tributes toward him the important role fathers play in child ernor Mario Cuomo, two of the great that he also gave a sense of importance rearing, both through his books and by people in political life to ever have the of family, and how he emphasized his sharing stories about ‘‘Big Russ’’ and opportunity to work for. wife and his son and of course his fam- his own son. His admiration for his fa- And he was a success story, climbing ily and ‘‘Big Russ.’’ ther and his unconditional love for his from the ranks of a government official And isn’t it interesting that he lost son were evident every time he spoke in the media and perfecting that trade his life on the weekend of Father’s of them. and going to the heights of his profes- Day? But it allows so many to empha- There will be a void on America’s tel- sion. He was diligent in doing his re- size that he was more than just the evision sets every Sunday, and later search and in quizzing everybody, I moderator, the host of Meet the Press; this fall, the Bills and the Sabers will think, in an even-handed manner that he was an American who loved this miss the sounds of cheers from their you really didn’t know exactly where country and loved his flag, but he was most loyal fan. But Tim Russert’s leg- Tim Russert was coming from. I had also someone who loved his family and acy, his unwavering pride in Buffalo, the pleasure of meeting him at a Van- showed America that even in all of his his devotion to his family, and his in- ity Fair dinner, which I was invited to energy and all of his business he could delible mark on journalism will live last year, and we were at a small table. stop and smell the roses and appreciate on. At the time, I didn’t know his wife the wonderment of his family. My thoughts are with his wife and worked for Vanity Fair. I thought Tim And so I join my colleagues in trib- son and the rest of the Russert family. Russert was just there because he was ute to him today on the floor of the Mr. ISSA. I would continue to re- Tim Russert, and that was a good House and ask, as we celebrate his life, serve. enough reason for him to be there. And that we will be reminded of the pre- Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I now he was nice as he could be, just a reg- ciousness of democracy and all that we yield 2 minutes to the distinguished ular guy, and we had a delightful con- have in benefits to be able to stand on this floor and to espouse our words and gentleman from Georgia (Mr. LEWIS). versation. He loved his father. And the book Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Madam to talk about what democracy and free- about his dad, Russ, has been well spo- Speaker, I thank the gentleman for dom is all about. Tim Russert captured ken about. But I think what’s amazing yielding. it in his love for this process, and his is I have a very good friend in Memphis Madam Speaker, Tim Russert per- giving to America the ability to under- named Ted Donaldson. And Ted had sonified the best of America. He rose to stand it in layman’s terms. written a letter to Tim Russert to be I offer my deepest sympathy to the the top of American journalism. He included in the book. And Ted’s not a Russert family. worked for a Governor, a United States bashful guy at all, and Ted came up to Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield Senator, and received a very good edu- Tim Russert at a function, I think it back the balance of my time. cation, but he never ever lost the com- was in New York, and he said, ‘‘Hi, I’m Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, just mon touch. He never strayed from his Ted Donaldson, I’m from Memphis and let me say in closing, Tim Russert was Buffalo roots. He loved to talk about I wrote you about my dad.’’ And he the voice to a Nation and to the world Buffalo. He knew that I had many rel- said, ‘‘Yup, page 45.’’ He knew exactly with a distinct inflection of that of atives living in Buffalo. the page in the book that it was. He Buffalo, imbued with exuberance and On the ‘‘Today Show,’’ his son, Luke, knew his book. He appreciated the peo- tempered with a love of family and called his father ‘‘the questioner for ple who remembered their fathers and community and country. the American people.’’ He had a high wrote and shared with him. And that With that, I would ask that this reso- calling, a mission, a mandate, to ask book will go on forever remembering lution be approved. politicians and public officials the the relationship of fathers and sons. Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise questions most Americans could not. I’m sure his son Luke has a great trib- today in honor and remembrance of Mr. Tim When we mourn for Tim Russert, we ute, what he lived and what he remem- Russert, devoted husband, father, son, broth- mourn for his wife, his son, and his fa- bers from his father and will have a er, and friend, whose brilliant legacy as a jour- ther, ‘‘Big Russ.’’ We mourn for his col- great life. I mourn with him and I’m nalist served to inform the lives of all who leagues at NBC and the community of sorry that he lost his father. knew him well. journalists, but we also mourn for our- Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I will Since 1991, Mr. Russert’s piercing assess- selves at a turning point in the history continue to reserve. ment of our Nation’s political scene graced of our Nation. We mourn for his words, Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I now America’s television screens on NBC’s ‘‘Meet his insight, and his commitment to the yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman the Press,’’ enlightening viewers with tough people’s right to know. from Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE). questions posed to political candidates, elect- God bless Tim Russert. He will be Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I thank ed leaders and influential people of our time. deeply missed. the distinguished gentleman, and to In his relentless search for the truth, Tim Russert served to provide the checks and bal- b 1730 the New Yorkers and Washingtonians that had the privilege of having Tim ances critical to maintaining the integrity of our Mr. ISSA. I have no further requests Russert as their native son and some- national freedoms. In every interview, with for time and I continue to reserve my one who moved to their particular every question posed, Mr. Russert created an time. area, and to the State of Ohio where he atmosphere of respect, fairness and integrity— Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I was educated. an atmosphere in which his ultimate goal as a yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Let me thank the author of this leg- journalist was sought—discovering the truth. Tennessee (Mr. COHEN). islation, the Congressman from New Tim Russert grew up in working-class Buf- Mr. COHEN. Madam Speaker, I think York (Mr. HIGGINS), the full committee falo, NY, where the lessons of hard work, faith the whole country shared in mourning Chair and ranking member. and family remained at the core of his being. the loss of Tim Russert as if he was This is a special tribute that is nec- He and three sisters, Betty, Kathleen, and Pa- part of our family. We had seen him on essary for this body because we are tricia were raised by their dedicated parents, television for so many years, and he nothing without words. And Tim Tim and Elizabeth (‘‘Betty’’). A sanitation work- would come into our homes on Sunday Russert was the architect of words that er and truck driver, his father worked two jobs mornings. gave politicians a basis of explaining to provide for his four children. He carried the And he was so much like so many how democracy works. That’s what lessons of his parents every day and within people in America in that he was pas- Meet the Press and Sunday morning every interview. One of the most engaging sionate about politics, passionate was all about for many, many Ameri- and effective journalists of our time, his pas- about government, passionate about cans. sion and commitment to his profession was

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5445 eclipsed only by his devotion to his family and thoroughly, pleasantly humble. He had the SECTION 1. GRANT OF FEDERAL CHARTER TO KOREAN WAR VETERANS ASSOCIA- friends. Mr. Russert shared his joy for life with conversation with world leaders and TION, INCORPORATED. everyone he met, and he treated everyone newsmakers we like to think we’d have had if (a) GRANT OF CHARTER.—Part B of subtitle with respect and kindness, regardless of their we’d been there. He was us. Part of our fami- II of title 36, United States Code, is amend- social standing. Tim Russert never forgot lies. And we will miss him. ed— where he came from, and his street-smart Mr. REYNOLDS. Madam Speaker, I rise in (1) by striking the following: common sense, infused with a brilliant mind support of H. Res. 1275 honoring the life of ‘‘CHAPTER 1201—[RESERVED]’’; and kind heart, endeared everyone to him— Timothy John Russert, Jr. and even his toughest competitors. It has been just days since one of Buffalo’s (2) by inserting after chapter 1103 the fol- Madam Speaker and Colleagues, please favorite sons was taken from us tragically, and lowing new chapter: join me in honor and remembrance of Mr. Tim suddenly. We have been touched by the ‘‘CHAPTER 1201—KOREAN WAR VETERANS Russert, whose professional legacy raised crit- makeshift memorial outside the NBC News ASSOCIATION, INCORPORATED ical and complex societal issues into the clear bureau in Washington, DC, the flags flying at ‘‘Sec. light of day. I offer my deepest condolences to half-staff outside City Hall in Buffalo and ‘‘120101. Organization. ‘‘120102. Purposes. his wife, Maureen; to his son, Luke; to his par- Rockefeller Center in New York City, and the ‘‘120103. Membership. ents and sisters, and to his extended family thousands who have come from all walks of ‘‘120104. Governing body. members and numerous friends. Tim Russert life to visit the park right outside South Buffalo ‘‘120105. Powers. lived his life with passion and joy, and al- that bears the name of this giant of broadcast ‘‘120106. Restrictions. though he will be greatly missed, the love he journalism. ‘‘120107. Tax-exempt status required as condi- shared with family and friends will live on for- Tim and I walked similar beats, cutting our tion of charter. ‘‘120108. Records and inspection. ever, and he will be remembered always. teeth in New York politics—the tricks of the ‘‘120109. Service of process. Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Madam Speaker, trade Tim picked up working for the late great ‘‘120110. Liability for acts of officers and there are two types of people in Washington— Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan and former Gov. agents. those known for what they love and those Mario Cuomo, he took with him to NBC, where ‘‘120111. Annual report. known for what they hate. Tim Russert was he ended up the sparring partner of many a ‘‘120112. Definition. known for all the things he loved. public official, including me. Every time we got ‘‘§ 120101. Organization He loved politics, as he discovered at an together, Tim was tough, but fair—and at the ‘‘(a) FEDERAL CHARTER.—Korean War Vet- early age and as his two bosses in the indus- end of the day, we were still two Buffalo guys erans Association, Incorporated (in this try—Mario Cuomo and Daniel Patrick Moy- who could talk shop about the Bills and the chapter, the ‘corporation’), a nonprofit orga- nihan—would learn to cherish. He loved nization that meets the requirements for a Sabres. veterans service organization under section humor. All of America knew his jowly and Though we cannot begin to comprehend the 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code of ever-present smile. He loved the give-and-take reach of Tim Russert’s legacy—we are still a 1986 and that is organized under the laws of of a good, rousing political argument—as I community in mourning—we can say with the State of New York, is a federally char- and all who appeared with him on Meet the great certainty that he has left an indelible tered corporation. Press would attest. mark on all of us. ‘‘(b) EXPIRATION OF CHARTER.—If the cor- He loved his family. What moved him finally Thank you, Tim. Go Bills! poration does not comply with the provisions to write a book? His love for his father. It led Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I of this chapter, the charter granted by sub- to two books, in fact, both of which ended up yield back the balance of my time. section (a) shall expire. atop The New York Times bestseller list. His The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ‘‘§ 120102. Purposes son, Luke, was one of the luckiest kids in question is on the motion offered by ‘‘The purposes of the corporation are those Washington. He grew up with a sports-mad the gentleman from New York (Mr. provided in the articles of incorporation of the corporation and shall include the fol- dad who took him to every game or match HIGGINS) that the House suspend the lowing: they could squeeze into their days. Nats base- rules and agree to the resolution, H. ‘‘(1) To organize as a veterans service orga- ball. Bills football. Wizards basketball. On Res. 1275. nization in order to maintain a continuing nights when none were playing, a good high The question was taken. interest in the welfare of veterans of the Ko- school or college game. Now, Luke and The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the rean War, and rehabilitation of the disabled James Carville co-host a sports talk show on opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being veterans of the Korean War to include all XM. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. that served during active hostilities and sub- He loved his faith. He called his time in the Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I object sequently in defense of the Republic of Catholic schools of Buffalo the most important Korea, and their families. to the vote on the ground that a ‘‘(2) To establish facilities for the assist- of his life. He served on numerous boards and quorum is not present and make the ance of all veterans and to represent them in devoted countless hours to working on behalf point of order that a quorum is not their claims before the Department of Vet- of his faith. present. erans Affairs and other organizations with- He loved the people who make up Wash- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- out charge. ington—the leaders and media moguls, of ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the ‘‘(3) To perpetuate and preserve the com- course. But he also had a strong relationship Chair’s prior announcement, further radeship and friendships born on the field of with those who are never seen in front of the proceedings on this motion will be battle and nurtured by the common experi- cameras. It was Russert who stood against postponed. ence of service to the United States during the time of war and peace. staff cutbacks and defended the hard-working The point of no quorum is considered ‘‘(4) To honor the memory of the men and men and women behind the scenes who withdrawn. women who gave their lives so that the made his show a reality each week. f United States and the world might be free A lot of people claim to love, but when it and live by the creation of living memorial, comes time to do the work that exemplifies GRANTING A FEDERAL CHARTER monuments, and other forms of additional this love, they fall short. That was not the case TO KOREAN WAR VETERANS AS- educational, cultural, and recreational fa- with Tim Russert. He did the work. He SOCIATION, INCORPORATED cilities. scooped the competitors. He put in the time Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam ‘‘(5) To preserve for the people of the with family. He practiced and lived his faith. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules United States and posterity of such people the great and basic truths and enduring prin- He lived and died with his teams. He looked and pass the Senate bill (S. 1692) to ciples upon which the United States was out for the big and little people in his midst. grant a Federal charter to Korean War founded. A number of commentators have seemed Veterans Association, Incorporated. ‘‘§ 120103. Membership surprised by the extensive coverage of his The Clerk read the title of the Senate ‘‘Eligibility for membership in the cor- passing, how hard America seems to be tak- bill. poration, and the rights and privileges of ing it. Why? This is just my guess, but I think The text of the Senate bill is as fol- members of the corporation, are as provided when the American people watched him every lows: in the bylaws of the corporation. Sunday morning or during election or other S. 1692 ‘‘§ 120104. Governing body news coverage, they saw a little bit of them- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ‘‘(a) BOARD OF DIRECTORS.—The composi- selves. They saw someone inherently fair, resentatives of the United States of America in tion of the board of directors of the corpora- scrupulously prepared, unfailingly thankful and Congress assembled, tion, and the responsibilities of the board,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5446 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 are as provided in the articles of incorpora- (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The item relat- JOHNSON, a decorated Korean and Viet- tion of the corporation. ing to chapter 1201 in the table of chapters at nam veteran, for cosponsoring this leg- ‘‘(b) OFFICERS.—The positions of officers of the beginning of subtitle II of title 36, United islation with me in the House. He hon- the corporation, and the election of the offi- States Code, is amended to read as follows: ors our House by his service, as he hon- cers, are as provided in the articles of incor- ‘‘1201. Korean War Veterans Asso- ored this House and this country by his poration. ciation, Incorporated ...... 120101’’. service in Korea and in Vietnam. I ‘‘§ 120105. Powers The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- know that the Korean War veterans, ‘‘The corporation has only those powers ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from provided in its bylaws and articles of incor- his colleagues who stood the battle in poration filed in each State in which it is in- Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) and the gen- Korea, are extraordinarily honored by corporated. tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each his cosponsorship of this resolution. ‘‘§ 120106. Restrictions will control 20 minutes. I want to thank my good friend, Sen- The Chair recognizes the gentle- ‘‘(a) STOCK AND DIVIDENDS.—The corpora- ator BEN CARDIN of Maryland, for his tion may not issue stock or declare or pay a woman from Texas. work on this issue in the Senate. dividend. GENERAL LEAVE This is an appropriate step for us to ‘‘(b) POLITICAL ACTIVITIES.—The corpora- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam take. This recognition for our Nation’s tion, or a director or officer of the corpora- Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that Korean War veterans is long overdue, tion as such, may not contribute to, support, all Members have 5 legislative days to but it is never too late to do the right or participate in any political activity or in revise and extend their remarks and in- any manner attempt to influence legislation. thing. And I am pleased, Madam ‘‘(c) LOAN.—The corporation may not make clude extraneous material on the bill Speaker, to rise and urge my col- a loan to a director, officer, or employee of under consideration. leagues to unanimously support this the corporation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there resolution, and again thank the distin- ‘‘(d) CLAIM OF GOVERNMENTAL APPROVAL OR objection to the request of the gentle- guished soldier who serves with us and AUTHORITY.—The corporation may not claim woman from Texas? served his country so well in battle. congressional approval, or the authority of There was no objection. the United States, for any activity of the Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I would Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam like to express my support for S. 1692, corporation. Speaker, I would now like to yield 1 ‘‘(e) CORPORATE STATUS.—The corporation legislation that grants a Federal char- minute to our distinguished majority shall maintain its status as a corporation inter to the Korean War Veterans Asso- corporated under the laws of the State of leader, Mr. STENY HOYER, the author of ciation. this legislation. New York. Many Americans are only familiar with the ‘‘§ 120107. Tax-exempt status required as con- Mr. HOYER. I thank my friend, the distinguished representative from the Korean War through the television series dition of charter M*A*S*H. Yet, it was one of the defining con- ‘‘If the corporation fails to maintain its State of Texas and a leader in our caucus and in our Congress. flicts of the 20th Century. Because of the cou- status as an organization exempt from tax- rageous service of millions of American servation under the Internal Revenue Code of I want to say how very proud I am to 1986, the charter granted under this chapter be associated with my good friend, SAM icemen and women, the global spread of shall terminate. JOHNSON, an American hero not only to Communism was halted on the Korean penin- ‘‘§ 120108. Records and inspection this body, but to veterans who have sula. More than 36,000 Americans lost their lives to preserve the liberty of the South Ko- ‘‘(a) RECORDS.—The corporation shall served in every one of our wars, and keep— certainly the Korean War in particular. rean people. The fall of the Iron Curtain. would ‘‘(1) correct and complete records of ac- I thank him for his cosponsorship of have been inconceivable without their sac- count; this resolution with me. rifice. ‘‘(2) minutes of the proceedings of the Madam Speaker, I strongly support The Korean War Veterans Association was members, board of directors, and committees this legislation granting the Korean established in 1985 as the only veteran’s or- of the corporation having any of the author- ganization comprised solely of Korean War ity of the board of directors of the corpora- War Veterans Association a Federal tion; and charter. It will enable them to expand Veterans. It now has over 25,000 members. ‘‘(3) at the principal office of the corpora- its mission and further its charitable The Association was founded in order to main- tion, a record of the names and addresses of and benevolent causes. tain a continuing interest in the welfare of vet- the members of the corporation entitled to The Association, comprised exclu- erans of the Korean War, to rehabilitate dis- vote on matters relating to the corporation. sively of Korean War members, has abled veterans of the War, to establish facili- ‘‘(b) INSPECTION.—A member entitled to more than 23,000 members and is one of ties for the assistance of War veterans and to vote on any matter relating to the corpora- the few such organizations of its size represent them in claims before the Depart- tion, or an agent or attorney of the member, ment of Veterans Affairs without charge, and may inspect the records of the corporation without a Federal charter. for any proper purpose, at any reasonable More than 50 years have passed since finally to perpetuate and preserve the com- time. the war-weary men and women who radeship and friendships born on the field of ‘‘§ 120109. Service of process served in Korea returned home. History battle and to honor the memory of the men ‘‘The corporation shall have a designated has revealed that the sacrifices made and women who gave their lives in the Korean agent in the District of Columbia to receive by these brave soldiers was instru- War. service of process for the corporation. Notice mental in stopping the expansion of Now, on June 6 of last year, the Immigration to or service on the agent is notice to or communism, and that their sacrifice Subcommittee adopted the following policy service on the corporation. effectively contributed to a more concerning the granting of new federal char- ‘‘§ 120110. Liability for acts of officers and peaceful world. Can one imagine if ters: The Subcommittee will not consider any agents North Korea were in charge of all of legislation to grant new federal charters be- ‘‘The corporation is liable for any act of Korea, what a dangerous world this cause such charters are unnecessary for the any officer or agent of the corporation act- would be? Granting this Federal char- operations of any charitable, non-profit organi- ing within the scope of the authority of the ter is a small expression of our appre- zation and falsely imply to the public that a corporation. ciation for the extraordinary courage chartered organization and its activities carry a ‘‘§ 120111. Annual report of our forces who were deployed to the congressional ‘‘seal of approval,’’ or that the ‘‘The corporation shall submit to Congress Korean Peninsula. Federal Government is in some way respon- an annual report on the activities of the cor- This bipartisan legislation is an op- sible for its operations. The Subcommittee be- poration during the preceding fiscal year. portunity to express our gratitude and lieves that the significant resources required to The report shall be submitted at the same time as the report of the audit required by respect for our military, past and properly investigate prospective chartered or- section 10101(b) of this title. The report may present, and to give Korean War vet- ganizations and monitor them after their char- not be printed as a public document. erans the long-awaited recognition ters are granted could and should be spent in- ‘‘§ 120112. Definition that they so deserve so that the so- stead on the Subcommittee’s large range of ‘‘For purposes of this chapter, the term called ‘‘forgotten war’’ is and should be legislative and other substantive policy mat- ‘State’ includes the District of Columbia and forgotten no more. ters. This policy is not based on any decision the territories and possessions of the United I want to thank, as I have done ear- that the organizations seeking federal charters States.’’. lier, my colleague, Representative SAM are not worthwhile, but rather on the fact that

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5447 federal charters serve no valid purpose and years. He confided to the Dallas Morn- This is also about fairness. A Federal therefore ought to be discontinued. ing News that he was bitter. ‘‘We were charter will give the Korean War Vet- This policy represented the continuation of a treated like dirt when we got home.’’ erans Association the same status as policy the Subcommittee put in place at the Then, in 2000, he heard about a parade other major veteran services organiza- start of the 101st Congress and has been con- in New York City honoring veterans, tions and allow them to more effi- tinued every Congress since, against granting including those from the Korean War. ciently assist their membership. new federal charters to private, non-profit or- ‘‘When I went to this parade,’’ he said, The Korean War is often called the ganizations. However, if the majority seeks to ‘‘with 25,000 marchers, they put me on ‘‘forgotten war.’’ By passing this legis- jettison the policy adopted by its own Judiciary the front float and there were a million lation, we take a modest step to reas- Committee just last year, so be it. If we are to people saying thank you. No one had sure the Korean War veterans that we grant any organizations federal charters, then ever thanked me for my service in will never forget them and their tre- the Korean War Veterans Association should Korea before,’’ and he said ‘‘it made me mendous sacrifice to our Nation. be at the top of the list. I urge my colleagues feel proud.’’ He tirelessly advocated a Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I reserve to support this legislation. national charter for the Korean War the balance of my time. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor veterans, and it brings me great pleas- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam to yield such time as he may consume ure to know that his hard work paid Speaker, I yield myself such time as I to the gentleman from Plano, Texas, a off. might consume. man of personal experience on what it’s Ed Buckman, your country and your Madam Speaker, let me rise in appre- all about to be a Korean War veteran, Congress are saying thank you for your ciation to the chairman of the House a man who I believe brings to the sincere devotion to the cause by cre- Judiciary Committee, Mr. CONYERS, House the kind of insight necessary to ating this long overdue national char- and the ranking member, Mr. SMITH, in bring this bill to the floor. ter for all Korean War veterans. working with the Senate and working Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam I want to thank STENY HOYER and with the staff on this very important Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the others in this Congress for helping initiative. And I would like to ac- the 5 million valiant men and women do this. It’s about time our Nation knowledge both former Senator Sar- who served in the Korean War. Some thanked the Korean War veterans for banes, Senator CARDIN, and of course may know the names Buzz Aldrin or their service and sacrifice with na- our very, very able and distinguished John Glenn. You know, we all flew F– tional recognition and premier status. and dedicated Majority Leader HOYER 86s in the 51st Fighter Wing back then This July, we mark the 55th anniver- in collaboration with Congressman together. They were household names sary of the Korean War armistice. To SARBANES to have this legislation, S. then. I flew 62 combat missions in the the remaining one million plus Korean 1692, move, which is to create the Ko- Korean War and got a chance to fly War veterans we will say, God bless rean War Veterans Association to be- with Buzz many times. you and God bless America. Your war come a Federally tax-exempt organiza- On Capitol Hill, there are three of us and your efforts will not be forgotten. tion. It was a Federally tax-exempt who served in Korea in this Congress— This is for you. America salutes you. corporation that was incorporated in CHARLIE RANGEL of New York, JOHN b 1745 the State of New York on June 25, 1985. CONYERS of Michigan, and I. The Con- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam And now this bill will grant a Federal gress is better off because Korean War Speaker, I would like to now yield 2 charter to the Korean War Veterans veterans are represented. minutes to the distinguished gen- Association. They call the Korean War the ‘‘for- tleman from Maryland (Mr. SARBANES) The veterans association is an asso- gotten war’’ as STENY HOYER said. No- who also desires to rise to thank the ciation of persons who have seen hon- where is this more evident than the Korean War veterans. orable service during the Korean War fact that the Korean War Veterans As- Mr. SARBANES. I thank my col- at any time between June 25, 1950 and sociation has not received a national league very much. January 31, 1955, both dates inclusive, charter. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong sup- and of certain other persons, the par- A little known fact is that American port of Senate bill 1692 which will ticular qualifications for membership prisoners of war in Korea endured even grant this Federal charter to the Ko- to be set forth in the bylaws of the Ko- more severe treatment than those of us rean War Veterans Association. This rean War Veterans Association. in Vietnam. In fact, they didn’t even day, as has been said already, is long, Over the years, the organization has want to talk about it for years. Giving long overdue. Later this summer will established a strong record of service the Veterans of the Korean War a na- mark the 55th anniversary of the armi- and commitment to fellow Korean War tional charter will put them in the stice that ended the full-scale fighting veterans ranging from the efforts on same echelon as the Veterans of For- in Korea. behalf of Project Freedom to a success- eign Wars and American Legion, truly I am very pleased the House will ful effort to construct a national Ko- a mark of distinction. today pass legislation to finally grant rean War veterans memorial on the Na- There is a Sam Johnson Korean War the Korean War Veterans Association a tional Mall. Veterans Group, chapter 270, in north Federal charter. My father, Senator I certainly personally want to thank Texas. The founder, Ed Buckman, a Paul Sarbanes, introduced this legisla- my friend and colleague from Texas, great patriot, did not talk about his tion over several Congresses in an ef- Congressman SAM JOHNSON, who has history or his story for decades. It fort to get these veterans the recogni- never wavered from his commitment wasn’t until a couple of years ago that tion that they deserved. And although and dedication to the men and women he started sharing his experience and this legislation had been a priority of of the United States military, to his became a Korean War veteran cham- his and Leader HOYER’s for many years, love of Texas, and certainly to his par- pion. we had been unable to get certain oppo- ticular love of those who served in the Ed Buckman is the one who helped nents to move out of the way and allow Korean War as he did, along with his bring the need for a national charter to it to pass. service in the Vietnam War. my attention. Mr. Buckman arrived Now, thanks to the majority leader He made mention of our friends and home in Fort Worth after serving from and to Senator BEN CARDIN and to oth- colleagues, Congressman JOHN CONYERS 1950 to 1951 as a Navy electrical engi- ers who stepped forward with their sup- and Congressman CHARLIE RANGEL. So neer aboard the USS Princeton. The port, we will finally send this legisla- today we honor them as we honor Veterans of Foreign Wars advised him tion to the President for his signature, many, many of those who served. The that because President Truman dubbed and it will become law. Korean War, often overlooked in Amer- the conflict in Korea a ‘‘police action’’ Madam Speaker, this is about recog- ican history, is anything but forgotten and not a war, Mr. Buckman and other nizing the 5.7 million veterans who by the nearly 1.2 million American vet- military personnel were not considered fought in the Korean War and more erans of the Korean War still alive veterans. than 36,000 Americans who made the today. And during the 3-year course of He once said he did not say the word ultimate sacrifice in service to their the war, some 5.7 million Americans ‘‘Korea’’ out loud for more than 40 country in that conflict. were called to serve.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5448 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 And by the time the Korean War Ar- membership to be set forth in the by-laws of pitals have the capacity to efficiently and ef- mistice Agreement was signed in July the Korean War Veterans Association. Over fectively meet the needs of our troops. The 1953, more than 36,000 Americans sac- the years, the organization has established a Riverside Hospital in Houston, Texas is a his- rificed their lives, 103,284 were wound- strong record of service and commitment to toric medical center that has served the needs ed, 7,140 were captured and 664 were fellow Korean War veterans, ranging from ef- of veterans in the Houston area for a long missing. And so we know it was, in forts on behalf of Project Freedom to its suc- time. However, currently, the hospital is lack- fact, a war that saw a painful time in cessful effort to construct a national Korean ing the tools necessary to treat the aug- American history but yet saw the val- War Veterans Memorial on the National Mall. menting number of troops who suffer from iant effort of our American soldiers. The Korean War, often overlooked in Amer- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and American troops fought to protect ican history, is anything but forgotten by the other common problems associated with fight- our freedom as we know it today and nearly 1.2 million American veterans of the ing in battle. Today, at this very second let us paved the way for the United States to Korean War still alive today. During the three take a united stand for the well being of our vanguard the movement for global de- year course of the war, some 5.7 million veterans; to say the very least, they deserve mocracy and liberty, a movement that Americans were called to serve, and by the it and to say the most; we’ve promised it. afforded many countries the oppor- time the Korean Armistice Agreement was This attests to the fact that we must now tunity to shift to democratic regimes. signed in July 1953, more than 36,000 Ameri- ensure that we keep our promises to our vet- And so it is a special honor to me to cans sacrificed their lives, 103,284 were erans by extending our gratitude and appre- able to stand today and join my col- wounded, 7,140 were captured and 664 were ciation. Currently, there are over 25 million leagues, to be able to support this leg- missing. veterans in the United States. There are more islation, S. 1692. I would ask my col- American troops fought to protect our free- than 1,633,000 veterans living in Texas and leagues to support this legislation and dom as we know it today and paved the way more than 32,000 veterans living in my Con- be reminded that no war should ever be for the United States to vanguard the move- gressional district alone. I hope we will all take forgotten. We stand here today to ac- ment for global democracy and liberty; a the time to show appreciation to those who knowledge that the Korean War is not movement that afforded many countries the have answered the call to duty. As the Win- forgotten, and as well, that we will opportunity to shift to democratic regimes. ston Churchill famously stated, ‘‘Never in the have the opportunity to celebrate in Sadly, all too many of our veterans are left field of human conflict was so much owed by the passing of this legislation. without the help and support they need to so many to so few.’’ This recognition for our With that, Madam Speaker, I ask my transition from the horrors they bravely faced nation’s Korean War Veterans is long overdue, colleagues to vote for S. 1692. on the front lines of battle to a successful civil- and it is a small expression of appreciation our Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of ian life. According to the Veteran’s Affairs De- nation can offer to these men and women, S.1692, a bill to grant a Federal charter to the partment, as of 2006, on any given night, and it will enable them to ensure that the ‘‘For- Korean War Veterans Association. This legis- 196,000 veterans of all ages were homeless. gotten War’’ is forgotten no more. lation honors the sacrifice and courage of our As we work to curb this formidable reality, let Madam Speaker, as we approach the 55th soldiers who served in the Korean War. My us demonstrate our support for the veterans of anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, I en- distinguished colleague from Maryland, Sen- the Korean War by supporting this legislation. courage my colleagues to join me in sup- ator BENJAMIN L. CARDIN and the Majority This should encourage us to continue to honor porting and serving those who have served Leader STENY HOYER seek to recognize the this nation’s troops who are fighting and who this nation. heroic deeds of Korean War veterans by have fought for the rights of all of us in places Mr. BUYER. Madam Speaker, I rise in sup- granting the Korean War Veterans Association we do not dare to go, under environments we port of S. 1692, a measure to grant a Federal Incorporated a Federal Charter. cannot fully appreciate from this comfortable charter to the Korean War Veterans Associa- The Korean War Veterans Association position. tion (KWVA). (KWVA) is a federally-tax exempt organization I firmly believe that we should celebrate our Though the Korean War is sometimes re- that was incorporated in the State of New veterans after every conflict, and I remain ferred to as the ‘‘Forgotten War,’’ it is among York on June 25, 1985. Its original founder committed, as a Member of Congress, to both the most significant events of the 20th century. was Mr. William T. Norris, of New York, a meeting the needs of veterans of previous Communist military aggression was defeated member of F Company, 27th Infantry Regi- wars, and to provide a fitting welcome home and the United States and its allies sent a sig- ment (Wolfhounds), 25th Infantry Division, to those who are now serving. Veterans have nal to the world that militaristic expansion of when he served as a sergeant in the Korean kept their promise to serve our nation; they communism would be countered with force. War. have willingly risked their lives to protect the Nearly 6 million Americans served during This legislation provides an opportunity for country we all love. the Korean War, and tens of thousands of each of us, regardless of political views, reli- I have always been a strong supporter of them faced some of history’s most adverse gion, ethnicity, gender, or background to come our country’s troops, male and female. That is circumstances and challenges for the cause of together, and to recognize and honor our na- why I introduced the House Concurrent Reso- freedom—by the time the Korean Armistice tion’s heroes. We gather here today, in the lution 320 which celebrates one of our heroic Agreement was signed in July 1953, more midst of ongoing conflict and warfare, hon- daughters of Texas, Specialist Monica L. than 36,000 Americans had died, 103,284 had oring the dedication of our men and women in Brown of the United States Army with for her been wounded, 7,140 were captured, and 664 uniform. Though we may be divided by our efforts earlier this year. were missing. positions on the war in Iraq, we stand together Spec. Brown was the first woman in Afghan- The heroism displayed by Korean War vet- to support all of our veterans, highlighting in istan and only the second female soldier since erans should never be forgotten. We can help this particular legislation those who fought in World War II to receive the Silver Star, the na- honor the 1.2 million American veterans of the the Korean War. tion’s third-highest medal for valor. This soldier Korean War who are still alive today by grant- Our nation has a proud legacy of apprecia- from Lake Jackson, Texas was only 20-years- ing a Federal charter to America’s oldest and tion and commitment to the men and women old. largest association of Korea veterans. KWVA who have worn the uniform in defense of this On April 25, 2007, Specialist Brown was is a 20,000-member veterans’ service organi- country. We must be united in seeing to it that part of a four-vehicle convoy patrolling near zation devoted exclusively to Korean War vet- every soldier, sailor, airman, and marine is Jani Kheil in the eastern province of Paktia on erans. welcomed back with all the care and compas- April 25, 2007, when a bomb struck one of the That is why we should approve S. 1692 call- sion this grateful nation can bestow. S.1692 Humvees. ing on Congress to grant a Federal charter to assists us in these endeavors by extending a When Spec. Brown saw her fellow soldiers KWVA. This recognition is well deserved, and small gesture of gratitude that grants a federal were injured, she grabbed her aid bag and I am hopeful that Congress will act swiftly to charter to an organization that promotes and started running toward the burning vehicle as approve this measure. I urge my colleagues to maintains benevolent and charitable endeav- insurgents opened fire. All five wounded sol- join me in supporting this legislation. ors. The Korean War Veterans Association is diers from her platoon scrambled out. Under Additionally, I would encourage my col- an association of persons who have seen hon- this commotion, she assessed her patients leagues to join me in supporting H.R. 5854, a orable service during the Korean War at any and moved them to a safer location because bill to grant a Federal charter to the Military time between June 25, 1950 and 31 January they were still receiving incoming fire. Officers Association of America (MOAA). 1955, both dates inclusive, and of certain Other veteran’s legislation that I am pur- MOAA is the largest professional associa- other persons, the particular qualifications for suing entails guaranteeing that our VA hos- tion for military officers and the fourth largest

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5449 veterans group in the Nation. With 370,000 Ce´sar E. Cha´ vez, Barbara C. Jordan, William who struggled in the civil rights move- members, MOAA has a distinguished 79-year C. Vela´ squez, and Dr. Hector P. Garcia Vot- ment. Many lost their lives in this bat- history of service to the military community, ing Rights Act Reauthorization and Amend- tle. This reauthorization that occurred ments Act of 2006 shall be considered to refer in the last session, and the session be- veterans, and their families. to, respectively, the effective date of the Like KWVA, MOAA is among the veterans’ amendments made by, or the date of the en- fore is a testimony to the struggle. service organizations without a Federal char- actment of, the Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Cesar Estrada Chavez was born of ter. In addition to the deserved recognition it Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting Rights humble beginnings on March 31, 1927, in would accord MOAA, a Federal charter would Act Reauthorization and Amendments Act of Yuma, Arizona. Early in his life, Mr. enable some state-level MOAA affiliates to 2006.’’. Chavez was forced to recognize the participate on governor-appointed advisory The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- harsh realities of racism that all too councils to which they are presently excluded. ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from often plagued communities of color. Again, I urge my colleagues to support this Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) and the gen- After his family’s home and land were legislation to grant a Federal charter for tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each taken from them, Mr. Chavez knew KWVA, and I would also encourage my col- will control 20 minutes. firsthand what it meant to be a victim leagues to cosponsor H.R. 5854 to grant a The Chair recognizes the gentle- of gross injustice. Yet despite this and Federal charter to MOAA. woman from Texas. similar experiences of discrimination, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. With GENERAL LEAVE Mr. Chavez was not deterred. He often that, I yield back my time. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam said that ‘‘the love for justice that is in Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I would Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that us is not only the best part of our being also yield back at this time. all Members have 5 legislative days to but also the most true to our nature.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The revise and extend their remarks and in- At only 10 years old, Mr. Chavez be- question is on the motion offered by clude extraneous material on the bill came a migrant farmworker. He at- the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. under consideration. tended 38 different schools before quit- JACKSON-LEE) that the House suspend The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ting at the end of the eighth grade to the rules and pass the Senate bill, S. objection to the request of the gentle- support his family full time. 1692. woman from Texas? In 1945, he joined the U.S. Navy and The question was taken; and (two- There was no objection. served in the western Pacific during thirds being in the affirmative) the Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. And I the end of World War II. After com- rules were suspended and the Senate now yield myself such time as I may pleting his military service, Mr. Cha- bill was passed. consume. vez returned to his roots, laboring in A motion to reconsider was laid on Madam Speaker, I rise in strong sup- the fields. the table. port of S. 188, a companion bill to H.R. Mr. Chavez was unwavering in his ac- f 6250, providing for revising the short tivities in voter registration cam- title of the Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa paigns. He is truly warranting of this REVISING SHORT TITLE OF THE Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting honor today. FANNIE LOU HAMER, ROSA Rights Act Reauthorization and By day, Mr. Chavez picked apricots PARKS, AND CORETTA SCOTT Amendments Act of 2006. in an orchard outside of San Jose. And KING VOTING RIGHTS ACT REAU- On January 31, 2007, I introduced H.R. be reminded that he served in the THORIZATION AND AMENDMENTS 745 to add Barbara Jordan and Cesar United States Navy. But he picked ACT OF 2006 Chavez. On June 12, 2008, I authored apricots in this orchard, and by night Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam and introduced the House companion he was actively involved in galvanizing Speaker, I move to suspend the rules to S. 188, H.R. 6250, in order to add voter registration drives. In 1952, Mr. and pass the Senate bill (S. 188) to re- numbers of individuals who deserve the Chavez was a full-time organizer with vise the short title of the Fannie Lou recognition of this legislation. the Chicago-based Community Service Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott I would like to thank Senator Organization (CSO), not only coordi- King Voting Rights Act Reauthoriza- SALAZAR on the Senate side for his nating voter registration drives, but tion and Amendments Act of 2006. leadership on this issue. And certainly battling racial and economic discrimi- The Clerk read the title of the Senate I would like to thank the chairman of nation against Chicano residents and bill. the full committee, Mr. CONYERS, and organizing CSO chapters across Cali- The text of the Senate bill is as fol- the ranking member, Mr. SMITH, for fornia and Arizona, as well. lows: their leadership and collaboration, In 1968, Chavez conducted a 25-day S. 188 along with the chairman and ranking fast to reaffirm the United Farm Work- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- member of the subcommittee. I also ers’ commitment to non-violence. In resentatives of the United States of America in want to thank Mr. Keenan Keller of the the process, Mr. Chavez gained the sup- Congress assembled, Judiciary Committee staff and all the port of the late Senator Robert F. Ken- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. staff who worked with him, Mr. nedy and was propelled onto the na- Section 1 of the Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Yohannes Tsehai and Mr. Arthur D. tional political scene. Kennedy called Parks, and Coretta Scott King Voting Rights Sidney of my staff, for their work on Cesar Chavez ‘‘one of the heroic figures Act Reauthorization and Amendments Act of the House bill and for their work on of our time’’ and actually flew to be 2006 (Public Law 109–246) is amended by bringing this bill as quickly as possible with Mr. Chavez when he ended his striking ‘‘and Coretta Scott King’’ and in- fast. ´ to the floor. serting ‘‘Coretta Scott King, Cesar E. On August 8, 1994, Mr. Chavez became Cha´ vez, Barbara C. Jordan, William C. The bill before us adds the names of Vela´ squez, and Dr. Hector P. Garcia’’. Cesar E. Chavez, Barbara C. Jordan, the second Mexican American to re- SEC. 2. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS. William C. Velasquez and Dr. Hector P. ceive the Presidential Medal of Free- Paragraphs (7) and (8) of section 4(a), and Garcia to the short title. It is only an dom, the highest civilian honor in the section 13(a)(1), of the Voting Rights Act of addition of names. It is not a deletion United States. The award was pre- 1965 (42 U.S.C. 1973b(a), 1973k(a)(1)) are each of any names. It is adding to the name sented posthumously by then-President amended by striking ‘‘and Coretta Scott portion of the bill only. Bill Clinton. King’’ and inserting ‘‘Coretta Scott King, These great people are pillars in the Mr. Chavez dedicated his life to im- Ce´sar E. Cha´ vez, Barbara C. Jordan, William Nation’s struggle for civil rights, proving the working conditions for the C. Vela´ squez, and Dr. Hector P. Garcia’’. equality and justice for all, and I poor and exploited. He worked on be- SEC. 3. CONSTRUCTION. strongly support the bill. half of the migrant workers in the Title I of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (42 Allow me, Madam Speaker, to share western United States. He worked also U.S.C. 1973 et seq.) is amended by adding at the humble beginnings of all of the in- tirelessly to ensure that Hispanic the end the following: ‘‘SEC. 20. A reference in this title to the ef- dividuals that have come before us to Americans were involved in the polit- fective date of the amendments made by, or be named now to this very important ical process. He is deserving of this the date of the enactment of, the Fannie Lou bill, a bill of which we know was really honor. And we commend him as we Hamer, Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, borne in the sweat and tears of those move this legislation forward.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5450 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 The next named person to have her ed the Voting Rights Act to include The legacy of Mr. Velasquez is appar- name listed on the Voting Rights bill is Mexican Americans in Texas and other ent. Since its inception, his organiza- Barbara Charline Jordan. Congress- southwestern States and to extend its tion has cultivated 50,000 community woman Jordan was a friend to many, a authorities to those States where mi- leaders, successfully litigated 85 voting mentor to me, and an icon. The late norities had been denied the right to rights lawsuits, and has conducted 2,300 honorable Congresswoman Barbara vote. nonpartisan voter registration and GOTV campaigns. Consequently, voter Jordan represented the 18th Congres- b 1800 sional District. She was the maiden registration has grown over the years holder of this seat. After this oppor- She obviously was renowned for her from 2.4 million registered Latinos in tunity was given through the Voting Watergate work and also her 1976 1974 to almost 12 million nationwide. Rights Act of 1965, I am now privileged speech to the Democratic Convention. Upon news of his death, the Congress to serve, and she was one of the first One of Professor Jordan’s colleagues adjourned its session for the day, sym- two African Americans from the South paid her the ultimate compliment. bolically illustrating his single-handed to be elected to the House of Rep- ‘‘She pushed her students. She said, effect on our political process. Presi- resentatives since Reconstruction. ‘You know, you have an obligation. dent Clinton posthumously awarded Barbara Jordan was known for her You owe something for what you have, Mr. Velasquez the Presidential Medal eloquence but also to many for her and you need to pay it back.’’’ That of Freedom, stating that he was driven quiet thoughtfulness and seriousness in was Barbara Jordan, continuing to give by an unwavering belief that every the legislative process. Barbara Jordan public service. American should have a role in our de- was a renaissance woman, eloquent, She ended her life as a professor at mocracy and share in the opportunities fearless and peerless in her pursuit of the Lyndon Baines Johnson School. In of our great Nation, adding that Mr. justice and equality. the tradition of Frederick Douglass, Velasquez made this a greater country. I pay tribute also to her sister who Martin Luther King and Thurgood I agree with him. It is for this reason, has carried on her legacy by presenting Marshall, she believed that the Con- Madam Speaker, that we are honored herself to the public and helping people stitution should be upheld. today to be able to add Mr. William understand Barbara’s legacy, that is to We honor her, deservedly so, by nam- ‘‘Willie’’ C. Velasquez in the short title a dear friend, Ms. Rosemary McGowan, ing her to the Voting Rights Act of of the Voting Rights Act, now reau- who lives in Houston, Texas, today. All 1965, reauthorized. thorized, but the Voting Rights Act of of her family grew up and lived in Fifth The next named person is William C. 1965. Our next named person, Dr. Hector P. Ward, and we were with them just a Velasquez, also a Texan, affectionately Garcia, was an interesting and strong few weeks ago when they showed us the known as ‘‘Willie.’’ He paved the way Texan. Dr. Hector P. Garcia was a remnants of where they lived. It is now for his generation and future genera- Mexican immigrant who became a doc- railroad tracks. But we will never have tions of Hispanics to empower them- tor, soldier, war hero and presidential their history extinguished. selves through voter registration, po- confidante. He dedicated his life to ad- Barbara Jordan exhorted all of us to litical empowerment, economic self-re- vocating for the education, civil rights, strive for the excellence, stand fast for liance and education. labor rights and human rights of our justice and fairness, and yield to no Mr. Velasquez was one of the found- community by struggling against rac- one in the manner of defending the ing members of the Mexican American ism and injustice. His life is an exam- Constitution and upholding the most Youth Organization, MAYO, a Chicano ple for the younger generation. sacred principles of a democratic gov- youth organization aimed at social action. His role in MAYO led to his be- Dr. Garcia received many honors dur- ernment. To Barbara Jordan, the Con- ing his life-long fight for veterans stitution was a very profound docu- coming Texas’ first statewide coordinator of the El Movimiento Social de rights. He is a giant in Texas. He is ment, one to be upheld. well-known, as we have found, through- On January 17, 1996, Barbara Jordan la Raza Unida, the precursor of La Raza Unida Party. His involvement out the Nation, throughout the vet- died too early, at the young age of 59. erans efforts that have come about, with the Latino organization was ex- On that day, Texas and the Nation lost particularly representing Latinos. He tensive. In 1968, as boycott coordinator one of its finest daughters, a woman is a giant. His fight for veterans rights for the United Farm Workers, he orga- who had served the people of Houston and his struggle against discrimination nized strikes in the Rio Grande Valley and Harris County in State and na- in housing, education and voting rights of Texas. tional government for over a decade. is renowned. And with Barbara Jordan’s passing, After leaving the UFW, he became In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson America lost one of its finest citizens. the founder and director of the Mexi- made him the first Mexican to serve on Barbara Jordan’s voice and eloquence can-American Unity Council in San the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. was one of a kind, and so was she. Antonio, Texas. In 1970, he was named Johnson also appointed him Alternate From her outspokenness during Wa- field director of the Southwest Council Ambassador to the United Nations to tergate, to her ethics back in Texas to of La Raza. promote better relations with Latin improve transparency, accountability From 1972 to July 1974, he con- America and Spain. Dr. Garcia served and ethics in government, no stand was centrated his efforts on building the Presidents John F. Kennedy and too controversial or too unpopular for Southwest Voter Registration Edu- Jimmy Carter as an adviser. Barbara Jordan to take. If she believed cation Project. That is what so many President Ronald Reagan awarded that it was the right thing to do, she of us know him for, SVREP. Little no- him the Presidential Medal of Free- did it. She was not afraid to take un- tice was given when Velasquez opened dom, the Nation’s highest civilian popular stands. And she often ruffled the doors to SVREP in 1974, seated on honor. Pope John Paul II recognized the feathers of friends and foes alike. a folding chair behind a small desk him with the Equestrian Order of Pope The Washington Post, too, half-jok- calling from a borrowed rotary tele- Gregory the Great. President Clinton ingly described Barbara Jordan as ‘‘the phone to spur Mexican Americans into eulogized him as a national hero. first black woman everything.’’ And a politics. The Treasury Department’s new $75 Cosmopolitan magazine survey of 700 Mr. Velasquez’s work of empowering Series I U.S. Savings Bond bears Dr. political opinions in 1975 put Jordan at all Americans through political par- Garcia’s portrait. The eight Americans the top of the list of women they would ticipation by his nonpartisan voter reg- depicted on the bonds, which debuted like to see become President. istration, voter education, candidate on September 1, 2007, were chosen for And in 1966 she became the first Afri- training, get-out-the-vote efforts, this their individual achievements and can American woman elected to the work of SVREP continues as it began service, and, for the first time, to re- Texas State Senate. She was the only through his work. He enlisted the aid flect the Nation’s racial and ethnic di- woman in that legislative session. of community organizers. Together versity. Dr. Garcia is the only His- In 1972, she came to the United they launched hundreds of voter reg- panic. Other honorees include General States Congress. She worked on work- istration and get-out-the-vote GOTV George C. Marshall and the Reverend er’s compensation and she also amend- campaigns throughout the Southwest. Dr. Martin Luther King.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5451 Congress honored Dr. Garcia, who Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott On August 8, 1994, Mr. Chavez became the died on July 26, 1996, at the age of 82, King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization and second Mexican American to receive the Pres- by passing a bill in August 1996 that Amendments Act of 2006. On January 31, idential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian made the American G.I. Forum a Con- 2007, I introduced H.R. 745 to add Barbara honor in the United States. The award was gressionally chartered veterans organi- Jordan and Cesar Chavez. On June 12, 2008, presented posthumously by then-President Bill zation. Dr. Garcia founded the organi- I authored and introduced the House com- Clinton. zation in 1948, and today it is the Na- panion, H.R. 6250 to S. 188. I want to com- Mr. Chavez dedicated his life to achieving tion’s largest Hispanic veterans group. mend the author on the Senate side, Senator better working conditions for the poor and the The charter status recognizes the G.I. SALAZAR. exploited migrant farmers in the western Forum as a peer of the American Le- I would like to thank Mr. Keenan Keller, and United States. He also tirelessly worked to en- gion. Mr. Yohannes Tsehai and Mr. Arthur D. Sid- sure that Hispanic Americans were involved in Dr. Garcia was born in a Mexican vil- ney of my staff for their work on the House bill the political process and were registered to lage in 1914 to a college professor and a and for their work on bringing this bill quickly vote. He is regarded as one of the most im- schoolteacher. They fled to Texas in to the floor. The bill before us adds the names portant people in the U.S. labor movement 1918 to escape the Mexican Revolution. of Cesar E. Chavez, Barbara C. Jordan, Wil- and in the Hispanic voter registration move- He was one of seven children, six of liam C. Velasquez, and Dr. Hector P. Garcia ment in this country. We honor his life and his whom became doctors. He graduated to the short title. These great people are pil- legacy with the addition of his name on this from the University of Texas Medical lars in the nation’s struggle for civil rights, important piece of legislation. School, joined the Army in World War equality, and justice for all. I strongly support BARBARA CHARLINE JORDAN II and served in North Africa and Italy this bill. Barbara Charline Jordan was a friend to as an infantryman and combat engi- CESAR ESTRADA CHAVEZ many, a mentor to me and an icon. The late neer until the Army officials found out Cesar Estrada Chavez was born of humble honorable Congresswoman Barbara Jordan that he was a doctor. He earned the beginnings on March 31, 1927, near Yuma, represented the 18th Congressional District of Bronze Star Medal with six battle stars Arizona. Early in life, Mr. Chavez was forced Texas that I am now privileged to serve, and in Italy. to recognize the harsh realities of racism that A disturbing incident in 1949 con- was one of the first two African-Americans all too often plagued communities of color. vinced Dr. Garcia that the Forum need- from the South to be elected to the House of After his family’s home and land were taken ed to fight for more than veterans Representatives since Reconstruction. from them, Mr. Chavez knew first hand what Barbara Jordan was a renaissance woman, rights. Army Private Felix Longoria it meant to be the victim of gross injustice. was killed on June 14, 1945, while on pa- eloquent, fearless, and peerless in her pursuit trol in the Philippines to flush out re- Yet, despite this and similar experiences of of justice and equality. She exhorted all of us treating Japanese. It took nearly four discrimination, Mr. Chavez was not deterred. to strive for excellence, stand fast for justice years to identify and return his re- He often said that ‘‘the love for justice that is and fairness, and yield to no one in the matter mains to his family. A funeral director in us is not only the best part of our being but of defending the Constitution and upholding in Three Rivers, Texas, told the family also the most true to our nature.’’ the most sacred principles of a democratic At only 10 years old, Mr. Chavez became a that the Anglo community wouldn’t government. To Barbara Jordan, the Constitu- migrant farmworker. He attended 38 different stand for his remains to lie in the chap- tion was a very profound document, one to be el for a wake, but he offered to arrange schools before quitting at the end of the eighth upheld. for Longoria’s burial in the segregated grade to support his family full time. On January 17, 1996, Barbara Jordan died In 1945, Mr. Chavez joined the US Navy Mexican cemetery separated by barbed at the young age of 59. On that day, Texas and served in the Western Pacific during the wire. lost one of its finest daughters—a woman who Private Longoria’s widow called Dr. end of World War II. After completing his mili- had served the people of Houston and Harris Garcia for help, who then contacted tary service, Mr. Chavez returned to his roots, County in state and national government for the funeral home and asked permission laboring in the fields. over a decade. And with Barbara Jordan’s to use the chapel. The director told Mr. Chavez was unwavering in his activities passing, America lost one of its finest citizens. him no Mexican American had ever in voter registration campaigns. By day, Mr. Barbara Jordan’s voice and eloquence were used the chapel and he wouldn’t allow Chavez picked apricots in an orchard outside one of a kind. And so was she. it because it might offend the whites. of San Jose; by night, he was actively in- Her accomplishments and admirers were le- Dr. Garcia went on to talk about this volved in galvanizing voter registration drives. gion. As a statesman and as a teacher, Bar- issue and to fight against it, and ulti- In 1952, Mr. Chavez was a full time organizer bara Jordan transcended race, gender, class, mately he prevailed when many no- with the Chicago-based Community Service and political affiliation. She was not afraid to ticed that the State of Texas, which Organization (CSO), not only coordinating take unpopular stands—and she often ruffled loomed so large on the map, looked so voter registration drives, but battling racial and the feathers of friends and foes alike. small tonight. economic discrimination against Chicano resi- From her outspokenness during Watergate, So within 24 hours the founder of the dents and organizing new CSO chapters to her efforts back in Texas to improve trans- newly organized American G.I. Forum across California and Arizona as well. parency, accountability, and ethics in govern- received a telegram from then Senator Mr. Chavez was also a passionate member ment, no stand was too controversial or too Lyndon B. Johnson, who expressed his of the labor movement in this country. In 1962, unpopular for Barbara Jordan to take—if she regret about what occurred, and there- he moved his wife and eight young children to believed that it was the right thing to do. fore he made arrangements to have California, where he founded the National Her rise through the ranks of state and na- Felix Longoria buried with full mili- Farm Workers Association (NFWA), the first tional politics compelled The Washington Post tary honors in Arlington National successful farm workers’ union in U.S. history. to half-jokingly describe Barbara Jordan as Cemetery in Virginia. In 1968, Chavez conducted a 25-day fast to ‘‘the first black woman everything.’’ And a This is truly a story of a hero, and reaffirm the United Farm Workers commitment Cosmopolitan magazine survey of 700 political that is why we stand today to acknowl- to non-violence. In the process, Mr. Chavez opinion leaders in 1975 put Jordan at the top edge Hector P. Garcia, who will be gained the support of the late Senator Robert of a list of women they would like see become named to the short title of the Voting F. Kennedy and was propelled onto the na- President. Rights Act of 1965. He will join these tional political scene. Kennedy called Cesar In 1966, she became the first African-Amer- heroes, Cesar Chavez, Barbara Jordan, Chavez ‘‘one of the heroic figures of our time,’’ ican woman elected to the Texas state Sen- Willie Velasquez, and now Dr. Hector and actually flew to be with Mr. Chavez when ate. She was the only woman in that legisla- P. Garcia, for he has fought for those he ended his fast. tive session. who could not speak for themselves to In 1991, Mr. Chavez received the Aguila In 1972, she became the first African-Amer- in essence have the opportunity to Azteca (The Aztec Eagle), Mexico’s highest ican woman elected to Congress from Texas vote. award presented to people of Mexican herit- after Reconstruction. While in Washington, Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues age who have made significant contributions she served with distinction on the House Judi- to support this legislation in honor of outside of Mexico. When he passed away on ciary Committee. these magnificent individuals. April 23, 1993, at the age of 66, he was the As a public servant, Barbara Jordan spon- Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of president of the United Farm Workers of sored bills that championed the cause of the S. 188, to revise the short title of the Fannie America, AFL–CIO. poor and the disenfranchised. One of her most

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5452 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 important bills as state senator was the Work- WILLIAM C. VELA´SQUEZ DR. HECTOR P. GARCIA man’s Compensation Act, which increased the William C. Vela´squez, affectionately known Dr. Hector P. Garcia was a Mexican immi- maximum benefits paid to injured workers. As as ‘‘Willie,’’ paved the way for his generation grant refugee who became a doctor, soldier, a congresswoman, she sponsored legislation and future generations of Hispanics to em- war hero and presidential confident. He dedi- to broaden the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to power themselves through voter registration, cated his life to advocating education, civil cover Mexican Americans in Texas and other political empowerment, economic self-reliance, rights, labor rights and human rights of our southwestern states, and to extend its author- and education. community by struggling against racism and ity to those states where minorities had been Mr. Vela´squez was one of the founding injustice. His life is an example for younger denied the right to vote or had their rights re- members of the Mexican American Youth Or- generations. stricted by unfair registration practices, such ganization (MAYO), a Chicano youth organiza- Dr. Garcia received many honors during his as literacy tests. tion aimed at social action. His role in MAYO lifelong fight for veterans’ rights and his strug- She gained national prominence for the po- led to becoming Texas’ first statewide Coordi- gle against discrimination in housing, jobs, sition she took and the statement she made at nator of El Movimiento Social de la Raza education and voting rights. In 1968, President the 1974 impeachment hearing of President Unida, the precursor of La Ram Unida Party. Lyndon B. Johnson made him the first Mexi- Richard Nixon. In casting her ‘‘yes’’ vote, Jor- His involvement with Latino organizations can American to serve on the U.S. Commis- dan stated, ‘‘My faith in the Constitution is was extensive. In 1968, as Boycott Coordi- sion on Civil Rights. Johnson also appointed whole, it is complete, it is total.’’ nator for the United Farm Workers (UFW), he him alternate ambassador to the United Na- In 1976, she was the first African-American organized strikes at the Rio Grande Valley of tions to promote better relations with Latin woman to deliver a keynote address at the Texas. After leaving the UFW he became the America and Spain. Dr. Garcia served Presi- Democratic National Convention. She would founder and director of the Mexican American dents John F. Kennedy and Jimmy Carter as deliver the keynote address again at the Unity Council in San Antonio, Texas. In 1970, an adviser. Democratic National Convention in 1992. he was named Field Director of the Southwest President Ronald Reagan awarded him the President Jimmy Carter considered her for Council of La Raza. Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s Attorney General and U.N. Ambassador, but From 1972 to July 1974, he concentrated highest civilian honor. Pope John Paul II rec- she chose to remain in Congress. She seri- his efforts on building the Southwest Voter ognized him with the Equestrian Order of ously considered challenging Sen. John Tower Registration Education Project (SVREP). Little Pope Gregory the Great. President Bill Clinton in 1978, but became ill and retired from poli- notice was taken when Vela´squez opened the eulogized him as a national hero. The Treas- tics. doors to SVREP in 1974, seated on a folding ury Department’s new $75 Series I U.S. Sav- chair; behind a small desk calling from a bor- Representative Jordan left Congress in ings Bond bears Dr. Garcia’s portrait. The rowed rotary telephone to spur Mexican Amer- 1979 to become Professor Jordan when she eight Americans depicted on the bonds, which icans into politics. joined the faculty of the Lyndon Baines John- debuted September 1, 2007, were chosen for SVREP continues Mr. Vela´squez’s work of son School of Public Affairs at the University their individual achievements and service and, empowering all Americans, through political of Texas. President Johnson was a mentor to for the first time, to reflect the nation’s racial participation, by its nonpartisan voter registra- Jordan. Fittingly, Professor Jordan held the and ethnic diversity. Dr. Garcia is the only His- tion, voter education, candidate training, and endowed Lyndon B. Johnson Centennial Chair panic; other honorees include Gen. George C. get-out-the-vote efforts. in National Policy. Marshall and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King He enlisted the aid of community orga- Jr. One of Professor Jordan’s colleagues paid nizers, together they launched hundreds of Congress honored Dr. Garcia, who died on her this ultimate compliment: ‘‘She pushed her voter registration and get-the-vote-out (GOTV) July 26, 1996, at age 82, by passing a bill in students. She said, ‘you know, you have an campaigns throughout the southwest. The leg- August 1996 that made the American G.I. obligation. You owe something for what you acy of Mr. Vela´squez is apparent—since its in- Forum a congressionally chartered veterans have and you need to pay it back.’ And I think ception, SVREP has cultivated 50,000 com- organization. Dr. Garcia founded the organiza- they all caught that passion that she had for munity leaders, successfully litigated 85 voting tion in 1948, and today is the nation’s largest public service.’’ rights law suits and has conducted 2,300 non- Hispanic veterans group. The charter status Professor Jordan, reflecting on her service partisan, voter registration and GOTV cam- recognizes the G.I. Forum as a peer of the in Congress, offered this pearl: ‘‘One some- paigns. Consequently, voter registration has American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars times gets the feeling that the Washington pol- grown over the years from 2.4 million reg- and others. itician feels that all wisdom resides in the na- istered Latinos in 1974 to almost 12 million Dr. Garcia was born in the Mexican village tion’s capital. That is not the view of the peo- nationwide. of Llera, Tamaulipas, on January 17, 1914, to ple on the outside, the people I am now work- The groundbreaking work of Mr. Vela´squez a college professor and a schoolteacher. ing with and communicating with. Distance and his associates created opportunities for When he was four, his family fled to Mer- has a way of lessening the impact of what the Hispanics to enter into the political arena, and cedes, Texas, in 1918 to escape the Mexican Federal Government does.’’ Few truer words gain a voice for a significant community in Revolution. He was one of seven children, six have ever been spoken. American society. of whom became doctors. As a distinguished professor at the LBJ Upon news of his death, the Congress ad- A 1940 graduate of the University of Texas School, Professor Jordan was able to have a journed its session for the day, symbolically il- Medical School, he joined the Army during major influence on the next generation of pub- lustrating, his single-handed effect on our po- World War II and served in North Africa and lic officials. She impressed her students with litical process. President Clinton posthumously Italy as an infantryman and combat engineer her intellect and ability to inspire them to awarded Mr. Vela´squez the Presidential Medal until Army officials found out he was a doctor. achieve excellence in the classroom, and to of Freedom, stating that he ‘‘was driven by an He earned the Bronze Star Medal with six bat- be committed to public service. unwavering belief that every American should tle stars in Italy. Barbara Jordan was a lawyer, legislator, have a role in our democracy and a share in After the war, he opened a medical practice scholar, author, and presidential adviser. She the opportunities of our great Nation,’’ adding in Corpus Christi and worked as a contract was immensely gifted, and used every bit of that Vela´squez ‘‘made this a greater country.’’ physician for the Veterans Administration. her talent and skill to address, improve, and The Presidential Medal of Freedom, in the That’s when he discovered his employer was dignify the conditions of human life. In the tra- words of President Clinton, celebrates those denying proper medical treatment and edu- dition of Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther who have changed America for the better and cational benefits to Mexican-American war vet- King, and Thurgood Marshall, she challenged who embody the best qualities in our national erans. He founded the American G.I. Forum the Federal Government and the American character. His contributions will broaden the on March 26, 1948, to fight that discrimination. people to uphold the principles set forth in the historical understanding of the development A disturbing incident in 1949 convinced Dr. Constitution. and struggle of the Hispanic community of the Garcia that the Forum needed to fight for Today, we honor Barbara Jordan by includ- United States and further serve to increase more than veterans benefits. Army Pvt. Felix ing her name on the Voting Rights Act, an Act awareness of the influence of Hispanics on Longoria was killed on June 15, 1945, while up which she personally worked. She spon- our country. on patrol in the Philippines to flush out retreat- sored legislation to broaden the Voting Rights Madam Speaker, it is indeed fitting that we ing Japanese. It took nearly four years to iden- Act of 1965 so that its promises would be ex- include the name William ‘‘Willie’’ C. tify and return his remains to his family. A fu- tended to all Americans. For this, we celebrate Vela´squez in the short title of the Voting neral director in Three Rivers, Texas, told the her and her legacy. Rights Act. family that the Anglo community ‘‘wouldn’t

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5453 stand for’’ his remains to lie in the chapel for tions with Latin American nations. He made 2300 non-partisan voter registration drives. He a wake, but he offered to arrange for history when, on October 26, 1967, he be- was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Longoria’s burial in the segregated ‘‘Mexican’’ came the first United States representative to Freedom in 1995. cemetery, separated by barbed wire. speak before the U.N. in a language other The names of these voting rights leaders Pvt. Longoria’s widow called Dr. Garcia for than English. and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients help, who then contacted the funeral home In 1968, President Johnson appointed him deserve to stand side by side with Fannie Lou and asked permission to use the chapel. The to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. In Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King, director told him no Mexican American had 1972, Dr. Garcia was arrested at a sit-in pro- in the short title of the Voting Rights Act Reau- ever used the chapel and he wouldn’t allow it test of the de facto segregation in Corpus thorization and Amendments Act of 2006. because it might offend the whites. Christi School District. Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- Dr. Garcia reported the conversation to a Madam Speaker, there has never been a ance of my time. Corpus Christi newspaper reporter and sent more important time to honor the great legacy Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam 17 telegrams to congressmen, senators, a of these civil rights pillars and it is, indeed, fit- Speaker, I thank the distinguished gen- governor and other reporters. The telegrams ting that we include the name Dr. Hector P. tleman. It is my hope that we will en- stated, ‘‘The denial was a direct contradiction Garcia in the short title of the Voting Rights thusiastically support this legislation of those same principles for which this Amer- Act. in tribute to these outstanding Ameri- ican soldier made the supreme sacrifice in giv- Madam Speaker, the renaming of this his- cans. ing his life for his country, and for the same toric piece of legislation is critically important. Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I rise in people who deny him the last funeral rites de- These civil rights legends have left an indelible support of S. 188, which would rename the serving of any American hero regardless of his mark upon my career and they have paved Fannie Lou Hamer Rosa Parks, and Coretta origin.’’ the way for me. Much respect and honor is Scott King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization The statement was aired internationally by due to these individuals. I owe them a debt of and Amendments Act of 2006, to include the radio broadcasters Drew Pearson, Westbrook gratitude. I have stood on their backs and en- names of civil rights pioneers Cesar E. Cha- Pegler and Walter Winchell, who said: ‘‘The joyed the fruits of their labor. I am grateful as vez, Barbara C. Jordan, William C. Velasquez, State of Texas, which looms so large on the an African American, a woman, and a member and Dr. Hector P. Garcia. It passed the other map, looks so small tonight. . . .’’ of Congress for the sacrifices these individuals body unanimously, and I would hope that this Within 24 hours, the founder of the newly have made for all Americans. House would follow suit. I want to commend SHEILA JACKSON-LEE, a organized American G.I. Forum received a I urge my colleagues to support this impor- distinguished Member of the Judiciary Com- telegram from then Sen. Lyndon B. Johnson tant legislation. that read, in part: ‘‘I deeply regret to learn that Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield mittee from Texas, who introduced legislation the prejudice of some individuals extends myself such time as I may consume. in the House. It is vitally important that we all even beyond this life. I have no authority over Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I rise in support remember the many courageous leaders civilian funeral homes. Nor does the federal of S. 188, which adds several names to the whose achievements make possible the work government. However, I have made arrange- short title of the Voting Rights Act Reauthor- we do today. The reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act ments to have Felix Longoria buried with full ization and Amendments Act of 2006. was an important achievement. The extension military honors in Arlington (Va.) National The individuals whose names are added by of this historic civil rights legislation passed in Cemetery . . . where the honored dead of our this legislation deserve to be embodied in that the last Congress with broad bi-partisan sup- nation’s war rest.’’ historic legislation for the roles they played in Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson and Presi- encouraging the participation of all Americans port. The Voting Rights Act has, since its enact- dent Truman’s personal aide, Maj. Gen. Harry in the political process. ment in 1965, helped to fulfil the promise of Vaughn, attended Longoria’s funeral on Feb- Cesar Chavez and Dr. Hector Garcia fol- this nation to the world that all are created ruary 16, 1949. The incident propelled the G.I. lowed the path of Martin Luther King, Jr. Mr. equal, and all have an equal right to determine Forum’s civil rights agenda to national atten- Chavez founded and led the first successful their destinies. tion. With its headquarters in Austin, Texas, farm workers’ union in the United States and Although the 15th Amendment to the Con- the Forum has evolved from a veterans’ rights became the president of the United Farm stitution was meant to guarantee that ‘‘[t]he group into a civil rights organization with more Workers of America, AFL–CIO. From its be- right of citizens of the United States to vote than 160,000 members in 500 chapters in 24 ginnings, the UFW adhered to the principles of shall not be denied or abridged by the United states and Puerto Rico. Today it serves all non-violent change. Mr. Chavez received the States or by any State on account of race, Hispanics and promotes greater participation Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest ci- color, or previous condition of servitude,’’ that in civic affairs, educational attainment, employ- vilian honor in the United States, in 1994. guarantee was not given full effect for many Dr. Hector Garcia was a Mexican Revolution ment, equality in income and health services. former slaves and their descendants for a full In 1960, Dr. Garcia became national coordi- refugee and medical doctor. He, too, led century after its adoption. nator of the Viva Kennedy clubs organized to peaceful protests to empower Mexican Ameri- The Voting Rights Act changed the legal elect John Fitzgerald Kennedy-president. The cans to fight legal and political battles against landscape and gave citizens, backed up by civil rights agenda of the Forum, however, was discrimination through his founding of the the Department of Justice, new legal remedies not at the forefront of the Kennedy administra- American GI Forum. He was also awarded the to ensure that their voices would be heard at tion’s platform, and Dr. Garcia and his sup- Presidential Medal of Freedom by President the ballot boxes—freely, fairly, and equally. porters were forced to content themselves with Ronald Reagan in 1984. It is therefore fitting that we should add the his perfunctory appointment as representative Barbara Jordan was the first African-Amer- names of these four civil rights leaders to the of the United States in mutual defense treaty ican woman to serve in the U.S. Congress title of the Voting Rights Act. talks with the Federation of West Indies Is- from the South. She became the first African- Who were these leaders? lands in 1962. The talks were successful, and American woman to serve in the Texas Sen- Cesar Chavez dedicated his life to the rights the appointment was notable as the first in- ate since 1883, where she served as the chair of some of the most vulnerable and powerless stance that a Mexican American had rep- of a major committee. As a Congresswoman, in this nation. The migrant farm workers who resented an American president. After Presi- she sponsored legislation to broaden the Vot- pick our crops were unable to provide even dent Kennedy’s assassination, his successor ing Rights Act of 1965 to cover Mexican- the most basic needs for their families. Lack of Lyndon Johnson appointed Dr. Garcia Presi- Americans and to extend its provisions to decent pay, schooling, education, sanitation, dential Representative with the rank of Special States where minorities had been denied the housing, and political power made them some Ambassador to the presidential inauguration right to vote or had their rights restricted by of the most oppressed Americans. In a land of ceremonies of Dr. Rau´l Leoni in Venezuela. unfair registration practices. plenty, these workers had nothing. In 1966, through the efforts of the Forum Finally, William Velasquez founded the Edward R. Murrow rightly called it our ‘‘Har- and other groups, the Texas poll tax was re- Southwest Voter Registration Education vest of Shame.’’ pealed. The Forum also undertook a march on Project in 1974 to encourage Latinos to join Cesar Chavez organized the unorganized, the Texas state capital to protest the low the democratic process. Starting with a folding built a national movement, and won a contract wages of Mexican agricultural laborers. In chair and a borrowed rotary phone, Mr. and a life with dignity for these workers. As 1967, President Johnson appointed Dr. Garcia Velasquez’s organization cultivated over the founder of the United Farm Workers, he alternate ambassador to the United Nations. 50,000 community leaders, successfully liti- brought hope, dignity, and self-respect to thou- He was tasked with the improvement of rela- gated 85 voting rights lawsuits, and conducted sands of hardworking Americans who had

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5454 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 faced bleak oppression and disenfranchise- March, 1948, the GI Forum ultimately spread ANDREW L. JEFFERSON ENDOW- ment. across the United States and became a lead- MENT FOR TRIAL ADVOCACY With the founding, and the success, of this ing civil rights organization. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam movement, nothing would ever be the same. World War II was very much a watershed in Speaker, I move to suspend the rules Barbara C. Jordan was a distinguished opening up new opportunities for Texas Mexi- and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 31) Member of this House from Houston, Texas, cans. But civil rights between 1945 and the recognizing the Honorable Andrew L. from 1973 to 1979, and a member of the Judi- late 1950s did not come to Mexican Ameri- Jefferson, Jr., on the occasion of the ciary Committee. cans automatically. In 1966, she became the first African Amer- establishment of an endowment for Many housing developments, restaurants, ican to serve in the Texas State Senate since trial advocacy called the ‘‘Andrew L. movies, swimming pools, and even hospitals 1883. Jefferson Endowment for Trial Advo- In 1972, she and and Andrew Young be- were considered off-limits to Mexican-Ameri- cacy’’ at Texas Southern University’s came the first African Americans elected to cans. Police and other law enforcement agen- Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Congress from the South since 1898. cies, such as the Texas Rangers and the Bor- Houston, Texas. If those dates are jarring, they should be. der Patrol, all too often reminded Tejanos of The Clerk read the title of the resolu- The post-Reconstruction era was marked by their second-class citizenship through dispar- tion. violence, state-sponsored terror, and legal agement or intimidation. Employment opportu- The text of the resolution is as fol- roadblocks that disenfranchised African Ameri- nities diminished quickly. lows: cans throughout the South. These efforts were Politically, Texas Mexicans had to pay the H. RES. 31 so effective in undermining the plain command poll tax, and cope with other voting and office- Whereas this distinguished gentleman of the 15th Amendment, that no African Amer- holding restrictions. Mexican American farm graduated from the University of Texas ican would represent the South in this House laborers, like those in a labor camp in nearby School of Law in 1959 and became a partner until we enacted and began enforcing the Vot- Mathis, Texas, endured inhuman living condi- with Washington and Jefferson, Attorneys at ing Rights Act of 1965. tions. Law, in Houston; he served as an assistant Representative Jordan was both a symbol Disabled Mexican American veterans were criminal district attorney for Bexar County, of that new law, and an activist who gave left starving or sick when a dilatory Veteran’s a chief assistant United States attorney for the Western District of Texas, and a trial those legal guarantees real meaning. Administration failed to send financial and counsel and labor relations counsel for Hum- When it came time to reauthorize the Voting medical benefits. Local school officials blithely ble Oil & Refining Company; Rights Act in 1975, Representative Jordan admitted on the radio that Mexican American Whereas in 1970, Andrew Jefferson was ap- sponsored legislation broadening it to include children were segregated. This was the Texas pointed judge of the Court of Domestic Rela- Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and that Dr. Hector Garcia returned to after World tions 2, Harris County, and in 1974, he was Asian Americans. Thanks to her efforts, the War II. elected judge of the 208th District Court, Voting Rights Act now protects the rights of In 1966, through the efforts of the Forum Harris County; in 1975, he decided to re-enter the practice of law and is currently in pri- voters with limited English proficiency. and other groups, the Texas poll tax was re- Always a tireless fighter for social justice, vate practice; pealed. The Forum also undertook a march on Whereas Judge Jefferson was admitted to Barbara Jordan was known for her passion the Texas State Capitol to protest the low practice in the United States Court of Ap- and her eloquence. In 1976, she became the wages of Mexican agricultural laborers. peals for the Fifth Circuit, Sixth Circuit, and first African American to deliver the keynote In 1967, President Johnson appointed Dr. Eleventh Circuit and the Supreme Court of speech at the Democratic National Conven- Garcia alternate ambassador to the United the United States; tion. Nations. He was tasked with the improvement Whereas a longtime active committee For her outstanding contributions to this na- member of the State Bar of Texas, he is also of relations with Latin American nations. tion, Barbara Jordan was awarded the Presi- a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation and dential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Dr. Garcia made history when, on October the American Bar Foundation and a member Clinton in 1994. 26, he became the first United States rep- of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association; he A legal scholar, a skilled legislator, an edu- resentative to speak before the U.N. in a lan- was formerly a member of the Texas Con- guage other than English. President Johnson stitutional Revision Commission; cator, and a fighter for social justice, Barbara Whereas well known for his expertise in Jordan’s name belongs on the Voting Rights also appointed him to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. the legal field, Judge Jefferson has been a Act. highly sought-after speaker throughout his William C. Velasquez, another Texan, and In 1972, Garcia was arrested at a sit-in pro- career; he has been a frequent speaker at the another Presidential Medal of Freedom hon- test of the de facto segregation in Corpus Criminal Law Institute for the Houston Bar oree, founded the Southwest Voter Registra- Christi school district. In 1987, he became in- Association and the San Antonio Bar Asso- tion and Education Project, the nation’s largest volved in the struggle against the campaign to ciation; he was a speaker for the National voter registration project aimed at the Hispanic name English the official language of the Bar Association’s convention and for the community. United States. His final project was to improve Family Law Institute; Under his leadership, the SVREP launched the standard of living in the colonias in the Rio Whereas a highly respected individual, Judge Jefferson has been prominent in com- hundreds of successful get-out-the-vote and Grande Valley along the United States-Mexico munity organizations and activities through- voter registration drives throughout the South- border. out his life and is noted for his leadership west, greatly expanding the number of reg- A fighter for this nation in combat, a distin- and sound judgment; istered Latino voters and increasing Hispanic guished physician, a courageous leader in the Whereas a former chairman of the board of participation in the political process. struggle for equality and freedom, it is fitting the Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve Mr. Velasquez, who was also a leader in the for us to add Dr. Garcia’s name to the Voting Bank and of the Texas Southern University United Farm Workers and helped found the Rights Act. Foundation, he is a life member of the Hous- Mexican American Youth Organization, and la ton Area Urban League and the National As- I urge my colleagues to support this impor- sociation for the Advancement of Colored Raza Unida, helped others believe as he did tant legislation. People; that ‘‘Su voto es su voz’’—your vote is your Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I yield Whereas he has been the recipient of a voice. back the balance of my time. number of awards, including the Anti-Defa- When President Clinton posthumously The SPEAKER pro tempore. The mation League National Torch of Liberty awarded Mr. Velasquez the Presidential Medal Award, the Forward Times Community Serv- question is on the motion offered by of Freedom in 1995, he was only the second ice Award, the League of United Latin Amer- the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Latino to receive the nation’s highest civilian ican Citizens National Community Service JACKSON-LEE) that the House suspend honor. Award, and the Community Service Award His contributions make it more than appro- the rules and pass the Senate bill, S. from La Raza; and priate for us to add his name to the Voting 188. Whereas an exemplary and distinguished gentleman, Judge Jefferson is beloved and Rights Act. The question was taken; and (two- thirds being in the affirmative) the respected by his many friends and the people Dr. Hector P. Garcia was a decorated vet- of the legal community, and he deserves rec- eran of World War II, a physician, and the rules were suspended and the Senate ognition for his outstanding career and ac- founder of American GI Forum. bill was passed. complishments: Now, therefore, be it Organized by Dr. Garcia in a Corpus Christi A motion to reconsider was laid on Resolved, That the House of Representa- elementary school classroom one evening in the table. tives hereby commends Andrew L. Jefferson,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5455 Jr., on his achievements and extends con- criminal district attorney for Bexar He has received numerous awards and gratulations to him on his selection as the County. These, Madam Speaker, were honors, among them the Anti-Defama- First Endowed Chair of the Thurgood Mar- jobs that he was able to secure with his tion League’s National Torch of Lib- shall School of Law Trial Advocacy Pro- own talents way before integration erty Award, the Forward Times Com- gram. came to the south. munity Service Award, the League of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- He was a Chief Assistant United United Latin American Citizens Na- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from States Attorney for the Western Dis- tional Community Service Award, and Texas (Ms. JACKSON-LEE) and the gen- trict of Texas. He was a pioneer for the Community Service Award from La tleman from California (Mr. ISSA) each young lawyers, a pioneer in going in Raza. In addition, he was the Presi- will control 20 minutes. places in the law where African Amer- dential nominee to sit on the United The Chair recognizes the gentle- ican lawyers could not go. In Houston, States Court of Appeals for the Fifth woman from Texas. Texas, African American lawyers could Circuit. GENERAL LEAVE not use the law library. They could not To honor Judge Jefferson on this oc- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam eat in the cafeteria. And, of course, he casion will be momentous for the City Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that was a trial counsel and labor relations of Houston, for Texas Southern Univer- all Members have 5 legislative days to counsel for Humble Oil and Refining sity and for minorities worldwide who revise and extend their remarks and in- Company, the predecessor to Exxon. aspire to study and practice law. clude extraneous material on the reso- Each time, he was a pioneer, he ex- I congratulate Judge Jefferson for lution under consideration. plored new ground, and certainly as an the life that he has led, for the young The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there African American getting his degrees people whom he has been able to lead. objection to the request of the gentle- in the late 1950s going through the Through his great service, the Texas woman from Texas? 1960s before the passage of the Civil Southern University Law School, the There was no objection. Rights Act of 1964 and 1965 and the Vot- Thurgood Marshall School of Law, has Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam ing Rights Act, he truly braved new established a trial advocacy program Speaker, I yield myself such time as I areas and stood for the dignity and re- that will be in his name at the may consume. spect of all in our community. Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and Madam Speaker, it is a true honor to Judge Jefferson served in the Judge it will be because of what he did for have the opportunity to sometimes Advocate General Corps in the United those he stood by and for those he honor those who are quiet giants, who States Army Reserve. He was honor- managed to lead and to inspire. represent the embodiment of the best ably discharged as a captain. Mind you, Judge Jefferson was a good friend of America, those who have pulled he was pioneering and doing all of this and advisor to Barbara Jordan. He ran themselves up by their bootstraps, and in the early days of the 1950s and 1960s. many campaigns, but as he continues to have the success story written by He has as his lovely bride another to live his life, he will be renowned and their own pen, by their own ink. So I civic leader, Mary Jefferson, who I will continue to be known for fighting rise today to honor a great Texan, a spoke to just last evening. I sent her for equality, for civil rights, for stand- great civil rights advocate and a great my best greetings and those to Judge ing tall, and for never stepping away American. The resolution recognizes a Jefferson, who is mending. We wish from a tough fight. So, as we acknowledge Congress- great legal scholar, as well as a great him a speedy recovery. woman Barbara Jordan, I will say that institution of legal education located But we also know he has strength he is the person who stood by her as in Houston, Texas. and determination and is a role model she sought to expand the Voting Rights Judge Andrew Jefferson is the em- to many. Mary Jefferson, his partner of Act in her time in Congress. bodiment of scholarship, of toughness, many years, has served on many orga- Judge Jefferson: A leader, a role of respect, of fairness. He is respected nizations herself. She is a strong advo- model, a civil rights fighter, along with by members of our community, Repub- cate for quality education for our his wife, Mary Jefferson, icons of our licans and Democrats alike. He is re- youth and for more opportunities for community, patriots, and great Ameri- spected by members, icons themselves, young people to go to college by ex- of the Texas Bar, and well-known cans. panding financial access, and she is a I ask my colleagues to support the around the Nation. He is cherished by fighter for civil rights herself. She is a the National Bar Association, the legislation H. Res. 31. long-standing member of the Links in I reserve the balance of my time. Houston Bar Association, the Amer- Houston. Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I yield ican Bar Association, and as well he is b 1815 myself such time as I may consume. cherished by Texas Southern Univer- I rise in support of House Resolution 31, A longtime, active committee mem- sity and the Thurgood Marshall School recognizing the Honorable Andrew L. Jeffer- ber of the State Bar of Texas, Judge of Law. son, Jr. and congratulating him on his selec- This scholar is Judge Andrew L. Jef- Jefferson is also a fellow of the Texas tion as the First Endowed Chair of the ferson, and the institution that he Bar Foundation, a member of the Thurgood Marshall School of Law Trial Advo- cherishes is the Thurgood Marshall American Bar Foundation, of the Texas cacy Program at Texas Southern University in School of Law at Texas Southern Uni- Trial Lawyers Association, and of the Houston, Texas. versity. Both embody the spirit of legal Texas Constitutional Revision Com- Mr. Jefferson, a graduate of the University excellence and public service. mission. This outstanding jurist, who of Texas School of Law, served as an assist- As we talked this day on the celebra- is renowned for his expertise in legal ant criminal district attorney for Bexar County, tion of Juneteenth, I am reminded of practice, has been a highly sought after a chief assistant United States attorney for the Representative Al Edwards, who orga- speaker throughout his career and has Western District of Texas, and a trial counsel nized Juneteenth, and we have cele- frequently shared his experience and and labor relations counsel for Humble Oil & brated under his leadership for 29 knowledge with the Criminal Law In- Refining Company. He was later elected judge years. Juneteenth, as I indicated, was stitute for the Houston Bar Associa- of the 208th District Court in Harris County be- about freedom, and Judge Jefferson tion, with the San Antonio Bar Asso- fore returning to private practice. connotes freedom. ciation, and he has spoken in many Mr. Jefferson received the Anti-Defamation Andrew L. Jefferson, a native of Dal- places. He served on the board of the League National Torch of Liberty Award, the las, Texas, graduated from the Univer- Houston branch of the Federal Reserve League of United Latin American Citizens Na- sity of Texas School of Law in 1959. Bank and of the Texas Southern Uni- tional Community Service Award, and the After earning his Bachelor’s Degree versity Foundation. Community Service Award from La Raza. from Texas Southern University, he I remind my colleagues that Texas I join my colleagues in congratulating Mr. was the President of the Alpha Phi Southern University was borne out of Jefferson, and in recognizing his distinguished Alpha Fraternity and rose to become a discrimination when individuals in the career and community service. partner at the law firm of Washington State of Texas could not go to the Uni- I yield back the balance of my time. and Jefferson, Attorneys at Law, in versity of Texas, as evidenced by the Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Madam Houston. He has served as an assistant Heman Sweatt lawsuit. Speaker, let me close by indicating

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5456 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 that Judge Jefferson is to be honored Foundation. Moreover, he is a life member of Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall today for many reasons, but I hope one the Houston Area Urban League and the Na- School of Law in Houston, Texas. of the strongest reasons will be his tional Association for the Advancement of Col- I believe that it is important for Congress to ability to work with young lawyers and ored People. recognize the contributions of our constituents the excellent service that he gave as a He has received numerous awards and hon- to the overall development of our commu- member of the State bench. ors, among them the Anti-Defamation League nities. I commend Representative SHEILA For those reasons, along with his National Torch of Liberty Award, the Forward JACKSON-LEE, a distinguished Member of the commitment to civil rights and voter Times Community Service Award, the League Judiciary Committee from Texas, who intro- rights, I ask my colleagues to enthu- of United Latin American Citizens National duced this legislation for highlighting the con- siastically support H. Res. 31, recog- Community Service Award, and the Commu- tributions of Judge Jefferson. It is vitally impor- nizing the Honorable Andrew L. Jeffer- nity Service Award from La Raza. In addition, tant that we all remember the many coura- son. he was a Presidential Nominee to sit on the geous leaders whose achievements make Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth possible the work we do today. great Texan, a great civil rights advocate, and Circuit. Judge Jefferson is a noted legal scholar and a great American. My resolution recognizes a To honor Judge Jefferson on this occasion institution of legal education in the Eighteenth great legal scholar, as well as a great institu- will be momentous for the City of Houston, for Congressional District of Houston, Texas. His tion of legal education located in the 18th Texas Southern University, and for minorities experience ranges from service in the Judge Congressional District of Texas. worldwide who aspire to study and practice Advocate General corps in the United States The scholar is Judge Andrew L. Jefferson, law. He is an inspiration for minority students Army Reserve to labor relations. He has been and the institution is the Thurgood Marshall to give them confidence in their potential to appointed and elected to the Texas state School of Law at Texas Southern University. succeed. courts and nominated for a seat on the Fifth Both embody the spirit of the legal excellence I congratulate and thank the State of Texas Circuit Court of Appeals. In addition to serving and public service. for its contribution to the overall accrual of the both the bar and bench, Judge Jefferson has Andrew L. Jefferson, a native of Dallas, resources that were required for the endow- participated in the life of the Houston commu- Texas, graduated from the University of Texas ment. nity and has been honored by numerous orga- School of Law in 1959, after earning his Bach- The establishment of a Trial Advocacy pro- nizations, ranging from the Anti-Defamation elor’s degree from Texas Southern University. gram at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law League to the League of United Latin Amer- He was president of Alpha Phi Alpha Frater- will be both an actual and a symbolic land- ican Citizens. nity, and rose to became a partner with Wash- mark. The endowment of a chair in his honor at ington and Jefferson, Attorneys at Law, in It was not in the Sixties, but only a few the Thurgood Marshall School of Law is a fit- Houston. years ago, that I joined the students, legisla- ting tribute for such a distinguished member of He has served as an assistant criminal dis- tors, and community leaders at Prairie View the bar and community. I salute his record of trict attorney for Bexar Country, a chief assist- A&M University on the birthday of Dr. Martin achievement and encourage all Members to ant United States Attorney for the Western support this resolution in his honor. Luther King, Jr. to fight for fair and unob- Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I have District of Texas, and a trial counsel and labor structed voting rights for those students. It was no other speakers, and I would be relations counsel for Humble Oil and Refining the skilled advocacy of the Lawyer’s Com- happy to yield back my time. Company. mittee that produced a statement by the Sec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Each time, he was a pioneer, he explored retary of State in favor of the students. question is on the motion offered by new ground, and certainly as an African Amer- Furthermore, the well-settled jurisprudence the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. ican, getting his degrees in the late 1950s, of case law such as Symm v. United States JACKSON-LEE) that the House suspend going through the 1960s before the passage and United States v. Texas, which made im- the rules and agree to the resolution, of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1965, and portant pronouncements as to the adequacy of H. Res. 31. the Voting Rights Act, he truly braved new students’ residency/domicile status to deter- The question was taken; and (two- areas and stood for the dignity and respect of mine eligibility to vote, were the product of thirds being in the affirmative) the all in our community. skilled trial advocacy. rules were suspended and the resolu- Judge Jefferson served in the Judge Advo- Without the work of the skilled advocates tion was agreed to. cate General Corps in the U.S. Army Reserve, who argued those cases, we would have an A motion to reconsider was laid on where he was honorably discharged as a cap- even longer journey to equality of the right to the table. tain. vote in this nation. f He has as his lovely bride another civic Judge Jefferson was also a good friend and leader, Mary Jefferson, who I have the pleas- advisor to Barbara Jordan. They were strong REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- ure of serving with on a number of organiza- friends together, because they believed in the VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF tions. She advocates for quality education for empowerment of all. They fought side by side H.R. 5876, STOP CHILD ABUSE IN our youth, and for more opportunities for for equality and civil rights. When Barbara Jor- RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS FOR young people to go to college by expanding fi- dan sought to expand the Voter Rights Act of TEENS ACT OF 2008 nancial access. 1965 to Texas in 1968, Judge Jefferson was Ms. SLAUGHTER (during consider- A long-time active committee member of the right by her side. ation of H. Res. 31), from the Com- State Bar of Texas, Judge Jefferson is also a My mentor, Barbara Jordan, was sur- mittee on Rules, submitted a privi- Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a mem- rounded by the best and brightest, and Judge leged report (Rept. No. 110–717) on the ber of the American Bar Foundation, the Jefferson was no exception. resolution (H. Res. 1276) providing for Texas Trial Lawyers Association, and the Therefore, the endowment that will be es- consideration of the bill (H.R. 5876) to Texas Constitutional Revision Commission. tablished in the name of the Honorable An- require certain standards and enforce- This outstanding jurist, who is renowned for drew L. Jefferson, Jr. will provide a legacy and ment provisions to prevent child abuse his expertise in legal practice, has been a will produce legal scholars who will contribute and neglect in residential programs, highly sought-after speaker throughout his ca- to the achievement of equality in the United and for other purposes, which was re- reer, and has frequently shared his experience States of America. ferred to the House Calendar and or- and knowledge with the Criminal Law Institute I congratulate the Thurgood Marshall School dered to be printed. for the Houston Bar Association and the San of Law at Texas Southern University and I f Antonio Bar Association. Furthermore, Judge thank Judge Jefferson for his service. Jefferson has spoken at conventions for the I urge my colleagues to support this resolu- REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- National Bar Association and the Family Law tion. VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF Institute. Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, I rise in H.R. 5781, FEDERAL EMPLOYEES Aside from the respect that he has earned support of H. Res. 31, which commends the PAID PARENTAL LEAVE ACT OF as a skilled jurist and advocate, Judge Jeffer- Honorable Andrew L. Jefferson, Jr. This reso- 2008 son’s leadership and sound judgment has lution honors the professional excellence aid Ms. SLAUGHTER (during consider- merited tenures as chairman of the board of community leadership of Judge Andrew Jeffer- ation of H. Res. 31), from the Com- the Houston Branch of the Federal Reserve son upon the establishment of an endowment mittee on Rules, submitted a privi- Bank and of the Texas Southern University for a trial advocacy chair in his honor at Texas leged report (Rept. No. 110–718) on the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5457 resolution (H. Res. 1277) providing for [Roll No. 414] Wasserman Welch (VT) Woolsey consideration of the bill (H.R. 5781) to Schultz Weller Wu YEAS—302 Waters Whitfield (KY) Yarmuth provide that 8 of the 12 weeks of paren- Watson Wilson (NM) Abercrombie Ferguson Miller (MI) Young (AK) Watt Wilson (OH) tal leave made available to a Federal Ackerman Filner Miller (NC) Young (FL) Waxman Wittman (VA) employee shall be paid leave, and for Alexander Forbes Miller, George Weiner Wolf other purposes, which was referred to Allen Fortenberry Mitchell the House Calendar and ordered to be Altmire Foster Mollohan NAYS—96 Andrews Frank (MA) Moore (KS) Aderholt Franks (AZ) Miller, Gary printed. Arcuri Gallegly Moore (WI) Bachmann Garrett (NJ) Moran (KS) Baca Gerlach Moran (VA) Barrett (SC) Gingrey f Bachus Giffords Murphy (CT) Murphy, Tim Barton (TX) Gohmert Baird Gillibrand Murphy, Patrick Musgrave Bishop (UT) Goode RECESS Baldwin Gonzalez Murtha Myrick Blackburn Goodlatte Barrow Gordon Nadler Neugebauer The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Blunt Graves Bartlett (MD) Granger Neal (MA) Paul Boehner Hall (TX) ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Bean Green, Al Nunes Peterson (PA) Bonner Hastings (WA) Becerra Pitts declares the House in recess until ap- Grijalva Oberstar Boustany Hensarling Berkley Poe proximately 6:30 p.m. today. Gutierrez Obey Brady (TX) Herger Berman Price (GA) Hall (NY) Olver Broun (GA) Inglis (SC) Accordingly (at 6 o’clock and 20 min- Berry Putnam Hare Ortiz Brown-Waite, Johnson, Sam utes p.m.), the House stood in recess Biggert Renzi Harman Pallone Ginny Jordan Bilbray Roskam until approximately 6:30 p.m. Hastings (FL) Pascrell Burgess King (IA) Bilirakis Ryan (WI) Hayes Pastor Burton (IN) King (NY) Bishop (GA) Sali f Heller Payne Buyer Kingston Bishop (NY) Herseth Sandlin Pearce Cantor Kline (MN) Scalise Blumenauer b 1832 Higgins Perlmutter Carter Kuhl (NY) Sessions Bono Mack Hill Peterson (MN) Coble LaHood Smith (NE) Boozman Hinchey Petri Conaway Lamborn Smith (TX) AFTER RECESS Boren Hinojosa Pickering Cubin Latta Souder Boswell The recess having expired, the House Hirono Platts Culberson Lewis (CA) Stearns Boucher Hobson Pomeroy Davis (KY) Lewis (KY) Sullivan was called to order by the Speaker pro Boyd (FL) Hodes Porter Davis, David Lungren, Daniel Tancredo tempore (Mrs. JONES of Ohio) at 6 Boyda (KS) Hoekstra Price (NC) Deal (GA) E. Terry Brady (PA) o’clock and 32 minutes p.m. Holden Rahall Dreier Mack Thornberry Braley (IA) Holt Ramstad Emerson Manzullo Tiahrt Brown (SC) f Honda Rangel Everett Marchant Walberg Brown, Corrine Hooley Regula Fallin McCarthy (CA) Walden (OR) Buchanan HOUR OF MEETING ON TOMORROW Hoyer Rehberg Feeney McCaul (TX) Wamp Butterfield Inslee Reichert Flake McKeon Westmoreland Calvert Mr. ARCURI. Madam Speaker, I ask Israel Reyes Foxx Miller (FL) Wilson (SC) unanimous consent that when the Camp (MI) Issa Reynolds Campbell (CA) Jackson (IL) Richardson NOT VOTING—35 House adjourns today, it adjourn to Capito Jackson-Lee Rodriguez Akin Johnson (IL) Rush meet at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow. Capps (TX) Rogers (AL) Cannon Kind Capuano Jefferson Saxton The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Rogers (KY) Conyers Loebsack Cardoza Johnson (GA) Schmidt objection to the request of the gen- Rogers (MI) Crenshaw McHenry Carnahan Johnson, E. B. Shadegg Ross Engel Meeks (NY) tleman from New York? Carney Jones (NC) Shimkus Roybal-Allard English (PA) Napolitano There was no objection. Carson Jones (OH) Stark Royce Fossella Pence Castle Kagen Tanner Ruppersberger Frelinghuysen Pryce (OH) f Castor Kanjorski Taylor Ryan (OH) Gilchrest Radanovich Cazayoux Kaptur Udall (CO) Salazar Green, Gene Rohrabacher Chabot Keller Weldon (FL) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Sa´ nchez, Linda Hulshof Ros-Lehtinen Chandler Kennedy Wexler PRO TEMPORE T. Hunter Rothman Childers Kildee Sanchez, Loretta Clarke Kilpatrick The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Sarbanes ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Clay Kirk ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Schakowsky Cleaver Klein (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Schiff will resume on motions to suspend the Clyburn Knollenberg the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Schwartz rules previously postponed. Cohen Kucinich ing on this vote. Cole (OK) Lampson Scott (GA) Votes will be taken in the following Scott (VA) Cooper Langevin b 1858 order: Costa Larsen (WA) Sensenbrenner H.R. 2964, by the yeas and nays; Costello Larson (CT) Serrano Messrs. LAHOOD, MANZULLO, H.R. 3702, by the yeas and nays; Courtney Latham Sestak Shays HALL of Texas, TIAHRT, LEWIS of H. Res. 1275, de novo. Cramer LaTourette Crowley Lee Shea-Porter California, and BOEHNER changed Votes on remaining suspensions will Cuellar Levin Sherman their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ be taken tomorrow. Cummings Lewis (GA) Shuler So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Shuster The first electronic vote will be con- Davis (AL) Linder tive) the rules were suspended and the Davis (CA) Lipinski Simpson ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Davis (IL) LoBiondo Sires bill, as amended, was passed. electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Davis, Lincoln Lofgren, Zoe Skelton The result of the vote was announced minute votes. Davis, Tom Lowey Slaughter as above recorded. DeFazio Lucas Smith (NJ) f DeGette Lynch Smith (WA) A motion to reconsider was laid on Delahunt Mahoney (FL) Snyder the table. CAPTIVE PRIMATE SAFETY ACT DeLauro Maloney (NY) Solis Dent Markey Space f The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Diaz-Balart, L. Marshall Speier finished business is the vote on the mo- Diaz-Balart, M. Matheson Spratt MONTANA CEMETERY ACT OF 2008 Dicks Matsui Stupak tion to suspend the rules and pass the Dingell McCarthy (NY) Sutton The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- bill, H.R. 2964, as amended, on which Doggett McCollum (MN) Tauscher finished business is the vote on the mo- the yeas and nays were ordered. Donnelly McCotter Thompson (CA) tion to suspend the rules and pass the The Clerk read the title of the bill. Doolittle McCrery Thompson (MS) bill, H.R. 3702, as amended, on which Doyle McDermott Tiberi The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Drake McGovern Tierney the yeas and nays were ordered. question is on the motion offered by Duncan McHugh Towns The Clerk read the title of the bill. the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. Edwards McIntyre Tsongas The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Ehlers McMorris Turner BORDALLO) that the House suspend the Ellison Rodgers Udall (NM) question is on the motion offered by rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2964, as Ellsworth McNerney Upton the gentlewoman from Guam (Ms. amended. Emanuel McNulty Van Hollen BORDALLO) that the House suspend the The vote was taken by electronic de- Eshoo Meek (FL) Vela´ zquez rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3702, as Etheridge Melancon Visclosky vice, and there were—yeas 302, nays 96, Farr Mica Walsh (NY) amended. not voting 35, as follows: Fattah Michaud Walz (MN) This will be a 5-minute vote.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5458 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 The vote was taken by electronic de- Oberstar Ryan (OH) Tauscher Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, on Obey Ryan (WI) Terry vice, and there were—yeas 396, nays 0, Olver Salazar Thompson (CA) that I demand the yeas and nays. not voting 37, as follows: Ortiz Sali Thompson (MS) The yeas and nays were ordered. Pallone Sa´ nchez, Linda Thornberry [Roll No. 415] The SPEAKER pro tempore. This Pascrell T. Tiahrt will be a 5-minute vote. YEAS—396 Pastor Sanchez, Loretta Tiberi Paul Sarbanes Tierney The vote was taken by electronic de- Abercrombie Davis (CA) Johnson (GA) Payne Scalise Towns vice, and there were—yeas 395, nays 0, Ackerman Davis (IL) Johnson, E. B. Pearce Schakowsky Tsongas not voting 38, as follows: Aderholt Davis, David Johnson, Sam Perlmutter Schiff Turner Alexander Davis, Lincoln Jones (NC) Peterson (MN) Schwartz Udall (NM) [Roll No. 416] Allen Davis, Tom Jones (OH) Peterson (PA) Scott (GA) Upton YEAS—395 Altmire Deal (GA) Jordan Petri Scott (VA) Van Hollen Abercrombie Crowley Honda Andrews DeFazio Kagen Pickering Sensenbrenner Vela´ zquez Ackerman Cubin Hooley Arcuri DeGette Kanjorski Pitts Serrano Visclosky Aderholt Cuellar Hoyer Baca Delahunt Kaptur Platts Sessions Walberg Alexander Culberson Inglis (SC) Bachmann DeLauro Keller Poe Sestak Walden (OR) Allen Cummings Inslee Bachus Dent Kennedy Pomeroy Shays Walsh (NY) Altmire Davis (AL) Israel Baird Diaz-Balart, L. Kildee Porter Shea-Porter Walz (MN) Andrews Davis (CA) Issa Baldwin Diaz-Balart, M. Kilpatrick Price (GA) Sherman Wamp Arcuri Davis (IL) Jackson (IL) Barrett (SC) Dicks King (NY) Price (NC) Shuler Wasserman Baca Davis (KY) Jackson-Lee Barrow Dingell Kingston Putnam Shuster Schultz Bachmann Davis, David (TX) Bartlett (MD) Doggett Kirk Rahall Simpson Waters Bachus Davis, Lincoln Jefferson Barton (TX) Donnelly Klein (FL) Ramstad Sires Watson Baird Davis, Tom Johnson (GA) Bean Doolittle Kline (MN) Rangel Skelton Watt Baldwin Deal (GA) Johnson, E. B. Becerra Doyle Knollenberg Regula Slaughter Waxman Barrett (SC) DeFazio Johnson, Sam Berkley Drake Kucinich Rehberg Smith (NE) Weiner Barrow DeGette Jones (NC) Berman Dreier Kuhl (NY) Reichert Smith (NJ) Welch (VT) Bartlett (MD) Delahunt Jones (OH) Berry Duncan LaHood Renzi Smith (TX) Weller Barton (TX) DeLauro Jordan Biggert Edwards Lamborn Reyes Smith (WA) Westmoreland Bean Dent Kagen Bilbray Ehlers Lampson Reynolds Snyder Whitfield (KY) Becerra Diaz-Balart, L. Kanjorski Bilirakis Ellison Langevin Richardson Solis Wilson (NM) Berkley Diaz-Balart, M. Kaptur Bishop (GA) Ellsworth Larsen (WA) Rodriguez Souder Wilson (OH) Berman Dicks Keller Bishop (NY) Emanuel Larson (CT) Rogers (AL) Space Wilson (SC) Berry Dingell Kennedy Bishop (UT) Emerson Latham Rogers (KY) Speier Wittman (VA) Biggert Doggett Kildee Blackburn Eshoo LaTourette Rogers (MI) Spratt Wolf Bilbray Donnelly Kilpatrick Blumenauer Etheridge Latta Roskam Stearns Woolsey Bilirakis Doolittle King (IA) Blunt Everett Lee Ross Stupak Wu Bishop (GA) Doyle King (NY) Boehner Fallin Levin Roybal-Allard Sullivan Yarmuth Bishop (NY) Drake Kingston Bonner Farr Lewis (CA) Royce Sutton Young (AK) Bishop (UT) Dreier Kirk Bono Mack Fattah Lewis (GA) Ruppersberger Tancredo Young (FL) Boozman Feeney Lewis (KY) Blackburn Duncan Klein (FL) Boren Ferguson Linder NOT VOTING—37 Blumenauer Edwards Kline (MN) Blunt Ehlers Knollenberg Boswell Filner Lipinski Akin Kind Rush Boehner Ellison Kucinich Boucher Flake LoBiondo Cannon King (IA) Saxton Bonner Ellsworth LaHood Boustany Forbes Lofgren, Zoe Conyers Loebsack Schmidt Bono Mack Emanuel Lamborn Boyd (FL) Fortenberry Lowey Davis (KY) McHenry Shadegg Boozman Emerson Lampson Boyda (KS) Foster Lucas Engel Meeks (NY) Shimkus Boren Eshoo Langevin Brady (PA) Foxx Lungren, Daniel English (PA) Murtha Stark Boswell Etheridge Larsen (WA) Brady (TX) Frank (MA) E. Fossella Napolitano Tanner Boucher Everett Larson (CT) Braley (IA) Franks (AZ) Lynch Frelinghuysen Pence Taylor Boustany Fallin Latham Broun (GA) Gallegly Mack Gilchrest Pryce (OH) Udall (CO) Boyd (FL) Farr LaTourette Brown (SC) Garrett (NJ) Mahoney (FL) Green, Gene Radanovich Weldon (FL) Boyda (KS) Fattah Latta Brown, Corrine Gerlach Maloney (NY) Hulshof Rohrabacher Wexler Brady (PA) Feeney Lee Brown-Waite, Giffords Manzullo Hunter Ros-Lehtinen Brady (TX) Filner Levin Ginny Gillibrand Marchant Johnson (IL) Rothman Buchanan Gingrey Markey Braley (IA) Flake Lewis (CA) Burgess Gohmert Marshall ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Broun (GA) Forbes Lewis (GA) Burton (IN) Gonzalez Matheson Brown (SC) Foster Lewis (KY) Butterfield Goode Matsui The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Brown, Corrine Foxx Linder Buyer Goodlatte McCarthy (CA) the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Brown-Waite, Frank (MA) Lipinski Calvert Gordon McCarthy (NY) ing on this vote. Ginny Franks (AZ) LoBiondo Camp (MI) Granger McCaul (TX) Buchanan Gallegly Lofgren, Zoe Campbell (CA) Graves McCollum (MN) b 1905 Burgess Garrett (NJ) Lowey Cantor Green, Al McCotter Burton (IN) Gerlach Lucas Capito Grijalva McCrery So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Butterfield Giffords Lungren, Daniel Capps Gutierrez McDermott tive) the rules were suspended and the Buyer Gillibrand E. Capuano Hall (NY) McGovern bill, as amended, was passed. Calvert Gingrey Lynch Cardoza Hall (TX) McHugh The result of the vote was announced Camp (MI) Gohmert Mack Carnahan Hare McIntyre Campbell (CA) Gonzalez Mahoney (FL) Carney Harman McKeon as above recorded. Cantor Goode Maloney (NY) Carson Hastings (FL) McMorris A motion to reconsider was laid on Capito Goodlatte Manzullo Carter Hastings (WA) Rodgers the table. Capps Gordon Marchant Castle Hayes McNerney Capuano Granger Markey Castor Heller McNulty f Cardoza Graves Marshall Cazayoux Hensarling Meek (FL) Carnahan Green, Al Matheson Chabot Herger Melancon HONORING THE LIFE OF TIMOTHY Carney Grijalva Matsui Chandler Herseth Sandlin Mica JOHN RUSSERT, JR. Carson Gutierrez McCarthy (CA) Childers Higgins Michaud Carter Hall (NY) McCarthy (NY) Clarke Hill Miller (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Castle Hall (TX) McCaul (TX) Clay Hinchey Miller (MI) finished business is the question on Castor Hare McCollum (MN) Cleaver Hinojosa Miller (NC) suspending the rules and agreeing to Cazayoux Harman McCotter Clyburn Hirono Miller, Gary Chabot Hastings (FL) McCrery Coble Hobson Miller, George the resolution, H. Res. 1275. Chandler Hastings (WA) McDermott Cohen Hodes Mitchell The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Childers Hayes McGovern Cole (OK) Hoekstra Mollohan tion. Clarke Heller McHugh Conaway Holden Moore (KS) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Clay Hensarling McIntyre Cooper Holt Moore (WI) Cleaver Herger McKeon Costa Honda Moran (KS) question is on the motion offered by Clyburn Herseth Sandlin McMorris Costello Hooley Moran (VA) the gentleman from New York (Mr. Coble Higgins Rodgers Courtney Hoyer Murphy (CT) HIGGINS) that the House suspend the Cohen Hill McNerney Cramer Inglis (SC) Murphy, Patrick Cole (OK) Hinchey McNulty Crenshaw Inslee Murphy, Tim rules and agree to the resolution, H. Conaway Hinojosa Meek (FL) Crowley Israel Musgrave Res. 1275. Cooper Hirono Melancon Cubin Issa Myrick The question was taken. Costa Hobson Mica Cuellar Jackson (IL) Nadler The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the Costello Hodes Michaud Culberson Jackson-Lee Neal (MA) Courtney Hoekstra Miller (FL) Cummings (TX) Neugebauer opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Cramer Holden Miller (MI) Davis (AL) Jefferson Nunes in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Crenshaw Holt Miller (NC)

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5459 Miller, Gary Reynolds Stearns Mr. HARE. Madam Speaker, I rise Madam Speaker, if Benjamin gets the Miller, George Richardson Stupak today to discuss the Air Force tanker need for increased domestic produc- Mitchell Rodriguez Sullivan Mollohan Rogers (AL) Sutton decision and its impact on our econ- tion, why doesn’t this Congress? Moore (KS) Rogers (KY) Tancredo omy and jobs, especially during these We need to promote efforts to drill in Moore (WI) Rogers (MI) Tauscher hard economic times. ANWR, drill in the non-protected areas Moran (KS) Roskam Terry Recently, an independent report pre- of the Outer Continental Shelf, support Moran (VA) Ross Thompson (CA) Murphy (CT) Roybal-Allard Thompson (MS) dicted that 14,000 jobs would be lost if new refineries, and promote nuclear Murphy, Patrick Royce Thornberry the multibillion dollar Air Force tank- power. Murphy, Tim Ruppersberger Tiahrt er contract was awarded to a foreign Instead, the Democrat majority Musgrave Ryan (OH) Tiberi wants to raise your gas tax by as much Myrick Ryan (WI) company. And the report states, Tierney as 50 cents gallon, as the chairman of Nadler Salazar Towns ‘‘These figures understate the potential Neal (MA) Sali Tsongas losses to U.S. employment.’’ the Energy and Commerce Committee Neugebauer Sa´ nchez, Linda Turner recently suggested. Nunes T. Madam Speaker, it’s outrageous that Udall (NM) Madam Speaker, we need to listen to Oberstar Sanchez, Loretta the Air Force officials did not take Upton Obey Sarbanes Benjamin and to other constituents Van Hollen into consideration the economic im- Olver Scalise Vela´ zquez pact of this decision. By outsourcing who don’t want our taxes raised. Ortiz Schakowsky Pallone Schiff Visclosky the production of the tanker, we are f Pascrell Schwartz Walberg denying hardworking Americans good, Walden (OR) INTERIOR APPROPRIATIONS BILL Pastor Scott (GA) high-paying jobs, and turning a blind Paul Scott (VA) Walsh (NY) (Mr. TIAHRT asked and was given Walz (MN) eye to our deteriorating economic situ- Payne Sensenbrenner permission to address the House for 1 Wamp ation. Pearce Serrano minute and to revise and extend his re- Perlmutter Sessions Wasserman Madam Speaker, this tanker deal fur- Schultz marks.) Peterson (MN) Sestak ther jeopardizes the economic security Peterson (PA) Shays Waters Mr. TIAHRT. Madam Speaker, the Petri Shea-Porter Watson of our Nation. At a time when America Interior approps bill will be in the full Watt Pickering Sherman is facing a record-high level of unem- committee tomorrow and is, on bal- Pitts Shuler Waxman ployment recession, creating jobs in Platts Shuster Weiner ance, a very good bill. Chairman DICKS Poe Simpson Welch (VT) Europe is not in the best interests of has done a thorough job, with many Pomeroy Sires Weller the American people. hearings, and has been very fair in Porter Skelton Westmoreland Madam Speaker, this Congress must looking at the various elements of the Price (GA) Slaughter Whitfield (KY) address the broader economic concerns Price (NC) Smith (NE) Wilson (NM) bill. Putnam Smith (NJ) Wilson (OH) raised by the tanker decision. We owe But it is an energy bill as well, and Rahall Smith (TX) Wilson (SC) it to the American people to take ad- with gas at $4.089 as a nationwide aver- Ramstad Smith (WA) Wittman (VA) vantage of the opportunity to create Rangel Snyder Wolf age, and with great opportunity in the Regula Solis Woolsey jobs right here in the United States Interior bill, we have done nothing to Rehberg Souder Wu and resuscitate our failing economy. bring down the price of gas. Reichert Space Yarmuth f So, tomorrow, in the full committee, Renzi Speier Young (AK) Reyes Spratt Young (FL) PERMISSION FOR MEMBER TO BE we have a series of amendments that will address the price of gasoline, and I NOT VOTING—38 CONSIDERED AS FIRST SPONSOR OF H.R. 2472 urge all my colleagues to join in the ef- Akin Johnson (IL) Rothman fort to bring down the price of gas. Cannon Kind Rush Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I ask We can do this by increasing produc- Conyers Kuhl (NY) Saxton unanimous consent that I may here- Engel Loebsack Schmidt tion in ANWR, in the Outer Conti- English (PA) McHenry Shadegg after be considered to be the first spon- nental Shelf. We can start to do the Ferguson Meeks (NY) Shimkus sor of H.R. 2472, a bill originally intro- Fortenberry Murtha permitting process for oil shale. In Stark duced by Representative WYNN of every case, we will increase a reliable, Fossella Napolitano Tanner Frelinghuysen Pence Maryland, for the purposes of adding Taylor environmentally safe supply of oil, and Gilchrest Pryce (OH) Udall (CO) cosponsors and requesting reprintings bring down the price of oil for working Green, Gene Radanovich Weldon (FL) pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII. Hulshof Rohrabacher men and women here in America. Hunter Ros-Lehtinen Wexler The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there So, again, Madam Speaker, I encour- objection to the request of the gen- age my colleagues to join with us and ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE tleman from New York? The SPEAKER pro tempore (during bring down the price of oil by increas- There was no objection. the vote). There are 2 minutes remaining the supply. ing on this vote. f f b 1913 CONGRESS MUST INCREASE WE NEED TO DRILL FOR OIL HERE DOMESTIC OIL SUPPLIES So (two-thirds being in the affirma- IN AMERICA tive) the rules were suspended and the (Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Flor- (Mr. BURTON of Indiana asked and resolution was agreed to. ida asked and was given permission to was given permission to address the The result of the vote was announced address the House for 1 minute and to House for 1 minute and to revise and as above recorded. revise and extend her remarks.) extend his remarks.) A motion to reconsider was laid on Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Flor- Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Madam the table. ida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to Speaker, you know, one of the things f share the absolute disgust that my that I think everybody in business un- constituents have with the inability of derstands is if you raise the taxes on a PERSONAL EXPLANATION this majority to do anything about ris- business, they pass that tax along to Mr. CONYERS. Madam Speaker, on June ing gas prices. the consumer in the form of a price in- 17, 2008, I regret that I was not present to Today, I received this letter from a crease, cars, no matter what the prod- vote on H.R. 2964, H.R. 3702, and H.R. 1275 constituent in Wesley Chapel. His uct is. And in this particular case, due to a personal business conflict. name is Benjamin, and he’s more than what we’re talking about tonight is oil. Had I been present, I would have voted ready to drill for oil and natural gas Senator OBAMA, who is running for ‘‘yea’’ on all votes. here in the United States and certainly President, says we ought to tax the f off the coast of Florida. His message is, windfall profits of the oil companies. b 1915 ‘‘It’s Time to Drill Our Own Oil Now!’’ Well, that may be a good idea as far as And that’s very clear. he is concerned, but when you tax the AIR FORCE TANKER DECISION But in case you don’t get the mes- oil companies, they’re going to pass (Mr. HARE asked and was given per- sage, he was also kind enough to in- that on to the consumer in the form of mission to address the House for 1 clude a drill bit in his envelope so that price increases. Gas prices are already minute.) we might start drilling right away. high enough as it is.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5460 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 What we should be doing instead of thing is just hunky-dory with our tleman from Arizona (Mr. FRANKS) is increasing taxes like that is to drill in troops now because Iraq has dis- recognized for 5 minutes. the United States of America. As my appeared from our television screens. Mr. FRANKS of Arizona. Mr. Speak- colleagues have just said, we have a lot But while the conflict may have dis- er, as so many times before, I stand of oil in the ANWR, and the geologists appeared from television, it has not once again before this body with yet have told us there is oil there, as much disappeared from the lives of our another Sunset Memorial. as 1 million or 2 million barrels of oil troops and from the lives of their fami- It is June 17, 2008, in the land of the a day, which could drive the price of lies. free and the home of the brave, and be- gasoline down. And yet, my colleagues Over 300,000 veterans of Iraq and Af- fore the sun set today in America, al- on the other side of the aisle and Sen- ghanistan have major depression or most 4,000 more defenseless unborn ator OBAMA continue to say, no, no, post-traumatic stress disorder, accord- children were killed by abortion on de- that’s not the answer; raise taxes on ing to the Rand Corporation. That is mand. And that’s just today, Mr. the oil companies. one in five who have served, and an ad- Speaker. That’s more than the number That isn’t going to get us one drop of ditional 320,000 have sustained head in- that were killed on September 11 in oil. We need to drill here in America. juries. The great majority of these in- this country, only it happens every juries were sustained in Iraq. day. f Only half of those suffering from de- It has now been exactly 12,930 days SPECIAL ORDERS pression or post-traumatic stress have since the tragedy called Roe v. Wade The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under sought treatment actually because was first handed down. Since then, Mr. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- many fear that it will harm their mili- Speaker, the very foundation of this uary 18, 2007, and under a previous tary careers. And half of those who Nation has been stained by the blood of order of the House, the following Mem- have received treatment have gotten almost 50 million of its own children. bers will be recognized for 5 minutes only ‘‘minimally adequate’’ treatment. Some of them cried and screamed as That, too, is according to Rand. each. they died, but because it was amniotic And there was also a very disturbing fluid passing over the vocal chords in- f report in the press today that the Vet- stead of air, we couldn’t hear them. STOP-LOSS POLICY IS A BREACH erans Administration has tested drugs All of them had at least four things OF TRUST on veterans suffering from post-trau- in common: First, they were each just matic stress without telling them The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a little babies who had done nothing about the possible mental side effects. previous order of the House, the gentle- wrong in this world to anyone. And Congress must conduct a full investiga- each one of them died a nameless and woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) tion of that report. is recognized for 5 minutes. lonely death. And each one of their Most tragically, suicides among mothers, whether she realizes it or not, Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, for members of the Army have been rising over 5 years, the American people have will never be quite the same. And all of steadily during the occupation. In 2007, the gifts that these children might seen the administration break one 150 soldiers committed suicide, Mr. have brought to humanity are now lost promise after another when it comes to Speaker, compared with 67 in 2004. forever. Yet even in the glare of such Iraq. Now, another promise is being About a quarter of the deaths occurred tragedy, this generation still clings to broken. This time, it has to do with the in Iraq. And an average of five U.S. sol- a blind, invincible ignorance while his- stop-loss policy, a policy that forces diers attempted suicide every day in tory repeats itself and our own silent soldiers to stay in the military when the year 2007. Before the occupation, genocide mercilessly annihilates the their unit deploys to Iraq within 90 the number was one per day. host helpless of all victims yet to date, days of the end of the soldiers’ enlist- However, not everyone is being hurt those yet unborn. ment period. Stop-loss means that by the occupation. Some people are Mr. Speaker, perhaps it’s time for troops must continue to serve even doing quite well, thank you, and those of us in this Chamber to remind when their enlistment period has ex- they’ve got the money to prove it. ourselves of why we’re really all here. pired. Chairman WAXMAN of the Committee Thomas Jefferson said, ‘‘The care of In January 2007, Secretary of Defense on Oversight and Government Reform human life and its happiness and not Gates ordered the military services to has asked the Inspector General of the its destruction is the chief and only ob- limit the number of stop-loss troops. Department of Defense to investigate ject of good government.’’ The phrase For a while, in fact, the order seemed ‘‘potentially thousands of criminal in the 14th amendment capsulizes our to be working. The number of troops cases involving fraudulent contracts in entire Constitution. It says, ‘‘No State affected by the policy dropped to about Iraq.’’ Hundreds of millions of dollars shall deprive any person of life, liberty 8,500. However, now the number is back could be involved. or property without due process of up to 11,000, and Admiral Mike Mullen, b 1930 law.’’ Mr. Speaker, protecting the lives Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, And the Special Inspector General for of our innocent citizens and their con- said just last week that the number of Iraq Reconstruction has already re- stitutional rights is why we are all stop-loss troops would continue to rise ported that millions of dollars in con- here. over the next couple of years. tracts have been wasted. The bedrock foundation of this Re- Stop-loss soldiers are forced to serve Mr. Speaker, we must hold the ad- public is that clarion declaration of the an average of over 6 months more than ministration accountable for every dol- self-evident truth, that all human they signed up for. This creates enor- lar spent in Iraq. We must do every- beings are created equal and endowed mous stress, Madam Speaker, and it thing we can to give our veterans the by their Creator with certain also creates great strain on the soldiers best possible care. We cannot allow war unalienable rights of life, liberty, and and on their families. The multiple de- profiteering to go on while our injured the pursuit of happiness. Every conflict ployments that many of our troops veterans lack the care that they need. and battle our Nation has ever faced face make the hardship even worse. f can be traced to our commitment to The stop-loss policy is actually a The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. this core, self-evident truth. It has backdoor draft, but it is even worse DONNELLY). Under a previous order of made us the beacon of hope for the en- than that. It is a breach of trust with the House, the gentleman from Texas tire world. Mr. Speaker, it is who we the men and women who put their lives (Mr. POE) is recognized for 5 minutes. are. And yet today another day has on the line for our country. They de- (Mr. POE addressed the House. His passed, and we in this body have failed serve a lot better treatment and a lot remarks will appear hereafter in the yet again to honor that foundational more respect than that. Extensions of Remarks.) commitment. We have failed our sworn The stop-loss policy is causing a f oath and our God-given responsibility great deal of suffering, but our troops as we broke faith with nearly 4,000 and veterans are suffering in many SUNSET MEMORIAL more innocent American babies who other ways as well. It is easy for some The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a died today without the protection we of us to convince ourselves that every- previous order of the House, the gen- should have given them.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5461 And it seems so sad to me, Mr. (Ms. KAPTUR addressed the House. which creates a point of order against appro- Speaker, that this Sunset Memorial Her remarks will appear hereafter in priation bills that contain advance appropria- may be the only acknowledgement or the Extensions of Remarks.) tions that: (i) are not identified in the statement remembrance these children who died f of managers; or (ii) would cause the aggre- today will ever have in this Chamber. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a gate amount of such appropriations to exceed So as the smallest gesture, I would ask previous order of the House, the gen- the level specified in the resolution. for those in the Chamber who are in- tleman from Indiana (Mr. BURTON) is clined to join me for a moment of si- REPORT TO THE SPEAKER FROM THE COMMITTEE ON THE recognized for 5 minutes. lent memorial to these lost little BUDGET—STATUS OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2009 CON- (Mr. BURTON of Indiana addressed Americans. GRESSIONAL BUDGET ADOPTED IN S. CON. RES. 70 the House. His remarks will appear Mr. Speaker, let me conclude this [Reflecting Action Completed as of June 13, 2008—On-budget amounts, in hereafter in the Extensions of Re- millions of dollars] Sunset Memorial in the hope that per- marks.) haps someone new who heard it tonight Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Years will finally embrace the truth that f 2008 1 2009 1, 2 2009–2013 abortion really does kill little babies, STATUS REPORT ON CURRENT Appropriate Level: that it hurts mothers in ways that we Budget Authority ...... 2,454,256 2,455,920 n.a. LEVELS OF ON-BUDGET SPEND- Outlays ...... 2,435,860 2,490,920 n.a. can never express, and that 12,930 days ING AND REVENUES FOR FISCAL Revenues ...... 1,875,400 2,029,644 11,780,107 spent killing nearly 50 million unborn Current Level: YEARS 2008 AND 2009 AND THE 5- Budget Authority ...... 2,448,861 1,472,948 n.a. children in America is enough. And YEAR PERIOD FY 2009 THROUGH Outlays ...... 2,433,207 1,875,104 n.a. that it is time that we stood up to- FY 2013 Revenues ...... 1,879,400 2,097,399 12,116,677 gether again and remember that we are Current Level over (+) / under The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a (-) Appropriate Level: the same America that rejected human Budget Authority ...... -5,395 -982,972 na. previous order of the House, the gen- slavery and that marched into Europe Outlays ...... -2,653 -615,816 n.a. tleman from South Carolina (Mr. Revenues ...... 4,000 67,755 336,570 to arrest the Nazi Holocaust. And we SPRATT) is recognized for 5 minutes. n.a. = Not applicable because annual appropriations Acts for fiscal years are still courageous and compassionate 2010 through 2013 will not be considered until future sessions of Congress. enough to find a better way for moth- Mr. SPRATT. Madam Speaker, I am trans- 1 Current aggregates do no include spending covered by section 301(b)(1) mitting a status report on the current levels of (overseas deployments and related activities). The section has not been trig- ers and their unborn babies than abor- gered to date in Appropriations action. tion on demand. on-budget spending and revenues for fiscal 2 Current aggregates do not include Corps of Engineers emergency spend- years 2008 and 2009 and for the 5-year pe- ing assumed in the budget resolution, that will not be included in current Mr. Speaker, as we consider the level due to its emergency designation (section 301(b)(2)). plight of unborn America tonight, may riod of fiscal years 2009 through 2013. This report is necessary to facilitate the application we each remind ourselves that our own BUDGET AUTHORITY days in this sunshine of life are also of sections 302 and 311 of the Congressional Enactment of measures providing new numbered, and that we will all too Budget Act and sections 301 and 302 of S. Con. Res. 70, the Concurrent Resolution on budget authority for FY 2008 in excess of soon, each one of us, walk from these $5,395 million (if not already included in the Chambers for the very last time. And if the Budget for Fiscal Year 2009. The term ‘‘current level’’ refers to the current level estimate) would cause FY 2008 it should be that this Congress is al- budget authority to exceed the appropriate lowed to convene on yet another day to amounts of spending and revenues estimated level set by S. Con. Res. 70. for each fiscal year based on laws enacted or come, may that be the day when we fi- Enactment of measures providing new nally hear the cries of unborn children awaiting the President’s signature. The first table in the report compares the budget authority for FY 2009 in excess of in this Nation. May that be the day $982,972 million (if not already included in that we find the humanity, the cour- current levels of total budget authority, outlays, the current level estimate) would cause FY age, and the will to embrace together and revenues with the aggregate levels set by 2009 budget authority to exceed the appro- our human and our constitutional duty S. Con. Res. 70. This comparison is needed priate level set by S. Con. Res. 70. to protect these, the least of our tiny to enforce section 311(a) of the Budget Act, OUTLAYS little brothers and sisters, from this which creates a point of order against meas- murderous scourge upon our Nation ures that would breach the budget resolution’s Enactment of measures providing new out- called abortion on demand. aggregate levels. lays for FY 2008 in excess of $2,653 million (if It is June 17, 2008, 12,930 days since The second table compares the current lev- not already included in the current level es- Roe v. Wade first stained the founda- els of budget authority and outlays for each timate) would cause FY 2008 outlays to exceed the appropriate level set by S. Con. Res. tion of this Nation with the blood of its authorizing committee with the ‘‘section 70. own children; this in the land of the 302(a)’’ allocations made under S. Con. Res. free and the home of the brave. 70 for fiscal years 2008 and 2009 and fiscal Enactment of measures providing new out- years 2009 through 2013. This comparison is lays for FY 2009 in excess of $615,816 million f needed to enforce section 302(f) of the Budget (if not already included in the current level The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Act, which creates a point of order against estimate) would cause FY 2009 outlays to ex- previous order of the House, the gen- measures that would breach the section ceed the appropriate level set by S. Con. Res. tleman from Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) is 302(a) discretionary action allocation of new 70. recognized for 5 minutes. budget authority for the committee that re- REVENUES (Mr. DEFAZIO addressed the House. ported the measure. His remarks will appear hereafter in The third table compares the current levels Enactment of measures resulting in rev- the Extensions of Remarks.) of discretionary appropriations for fiscal years enue reduction for FY 2008 in excess of $4,000 million (if not already included in the cur- f 2008 and 2009 with the ‘‘section 302(a)’’ allo- rent level estimate) would cause FY2008 rev- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a cation of discretionary budget authority and enues to fall below the appropriate levels set previous order of the House, the gen- outlays to the Appropriations Committee. The by S. Con. Res. 70. Appropriations Committee shortly will be dis- tleman from North Carolina (Mr. Enactment of measures resulting in rev- tributing this section 302(a) allocation among JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. enue reduction for FY 2009 in excess of $67,755 its subcommittees, creating 302(b) suballoca- (Mr. JONES of North Carolina ad- million (if not already included in the cur- tions. At that time, a point of order under sec- dressed the House. His remarks will ap- rent level estimate) would cause FY2009 rev- tion 302(f) of the Budget Act will become appear hereafter in the Extensions of Re- enues to fall below the appropriate levels set plicable to measures that would breach the marks.) by S. Con. Res. 70. applicable section 302(b) suballocation. Enactment of measures resulting in rev- f The fourth table gives the current level for enue reduction for the period of fiscal years The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a fiscal years 2010 and 2011 for accounts iden- 2009 through 2013 in excess of $336,570 million previous order of the House, the gentle- tified for advance appropriations under section (if not already included in the current level woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) is rec- 302 of S. Con. Res. 70. This list is needed to estimate) would cause revenues to fall below ognized for 5 minutes. enforce section 302 of the budget resolution, the appropriate levels set by S. Con. Res. 70.

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2008 2009 2009–2013 Total BA Outlays BA Outlays BA Outlays

House Committee: Agriculture: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Armed Services: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Education and Labor: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Energy and Commerce: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Financial Services: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Foreign Affairs: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Homeland Security: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 House Administration: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Judiciary: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Natural Resources: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Oversight and Government Reform: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Science and Technology: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Small Business: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Transportation and Infrastructure: Allocation ...... 395 0 1,496 0 4,176 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... ¥395 0 ¥1,496 0 ¥4,176 0 Veterans’ Affairs: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Ways and Means: Allocation ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Current Level ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0 Difference ...... 0 0 0 0 0 0

DISCRETIONARY APPROPRIATIONS FOR FISCAL YEARS 2008 AND 2009—COMPARISON OF CURRENT LEVEL WITH APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE 302(a) ALLOCATION 1 [In millions of dollars]

302 Current level reflecting action Current level Allocations 2 completed as of June 13, 2008 minus allocations BA OT BA OT BA OT

2008 ...... 1,050,478 1,094,944 1,045,478 1,092,291 ¥5,000 ¥2,653 2009 ...... 1,011,718 1,106,112 25,719 486,341 985,999 619,771 1 Comparisons are not provided by subcommittee because the Appropriations Committee has not yet approved 302(b) allocations pursuant to section 302 of the Congressional Budget Act and S. Con. Res. 70. 2 Allocation for 2009 can be further adjusted if funding is provided pursuant to section 301 of S. Con. Res. 70.

2010 and 2011 advance appropriations under 2010 U.S. CONGRESS, section 302 of S. Con. Res. 70 Tenant-based Rental Assistance .. --- CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE [Budget Authority in Millions of Dollars] Project-based Rental Assistance --- Washington, DC, June 17, 2008. Hon. JOHN M. SPRATT Jr., 2010 2011 Chairman, Committee on the Budget, Appropriate Level ...... 28,852 1 Enacted advances: Appropriate Level ...... n.a. House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Accounts Identified for Advances: Enacted advances: DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: The enclosed report Employment and Training Ad- shows the effects of Congressional action on Accounts Identified for Advances: ministration ...... --- the fiscal year 2008 budget and is current Job Corps ...... --- Corporation for Public Broad- through June 13, 2008. This report is sub- Education for the Disadvantaged --- casting ...... --- mitted under section 308(b) and in aid of section 311 of the Congressional Budget Act, as School Improvement ...... --- 1 S. Con. Res. 70 does not provide a dollar limit for Children and Family Services 2011. amended. (Head Start) ...... --- The estimates of budget authority, out- Special Education ...... --- lays, and revenues are consistent with the Career, Technical and Adult Edu- technical and economic assumptions of S. cation ...... --- Con. Res. 70, the Concurrent Resolution on Payment to Postal Service ...... --- the Budget for Fiscal Year 2009, as approved

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Budget authority Outlays Revenues

Previously Enacted 1 Revenues ...... n.a. n.a. 1,879,400 Permanents and other spending legislation ...... 1,441,017 1,394,894 n.a. Appropriation legislation ...... 1,604,649 1,635,118 n.a. Offsetting receipts ...... ¥596,805 ¥596,805 n.a. Total, Previously enacted ...... 2,448,861 2,433,207 1,879,400 Total Current Level 2 ...... 2,448,861 2,433,207 1,879,400 Total Budget Resolution 3 ...... 2,562,312 2,464,761 1,875,392 Adjustment to budget resolution pursuant to section 301(b)(1) 4 ...... ¥108,056 ¥28,901 n.a. Adjusted Budget Resolution 2,454,256 2,435,860 1,875,392 Current Level Over Budget Resolution n.a. n.a. 4,008 Current Level Under Budget Resolution 5,395 2,653 n.a. Source: Congressional Budget Office. Note: n.a. = not applicable; P.L. = Public Law. 1 Includes the following acts that affect budget authority, outlays, or revenues, and were cleared by the Congress during this session, but before the adoption of S. Con. Res. 70: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (P.L. 110–181), Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–185), Andean Trade Preference Extension Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–191), Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–227), Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–229), Strategic Petroleum Reserve Fill Suspension and Consumer Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–232), Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 1008 (P.L. 110–234), SAFETEA–LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–244), and Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Act (H.R. 6081). 2 For purposes of enforcing section 311 of the Congressional Budget Act in the House, the budget resolution does not include budget authority, outlays, or revenues for off-budget amounts. As a result, current level excludes these items. 3 Periodically, the House Committee on the Budget revises the totals in S. Con. Res. 70, pursuant to various provisions of the resolution: Budget authority Outlays Revenues

Original Budget Resolution ...... 2,563,262 2,465,711 1,875,392 Revisions: For the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Fill Suspension and Consumer Protection Act of 2008 (section 323(b)) ...... ¥950 ¥950 0 For the Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008 (section 323(b)) ...... 0 0 8

Revised Budget Resolution ...... 2,562,312 2,464,761 1,875,392 4 Section 301(b)(1) of S. Con. Res. 70 assumed $108,056 million in budget authority and $28,901 million in outlays for overseas deployment and related activities. Because action to date has not triggered this provision, the House Committee on the Budget has directed that these amounts be excluded from the budget resolution aggregates in the current level report.

U.S. CONGRESS, through June 13, 2008. This report is sub- by the Senate and the House of Representa- CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE, mitted under section 308(b) and in aid of sec- tives. tion 311 of the Congressional Budget Act, as Washington, DC, June 17, 2008. This is CBO’s first current level report for Hon. JOHN M. SPRATT JR., amended. fiscal year 2009. Chairman, Committee on the Budget, House of The estimates of budget authority, out- Sincerely, Representatives, Washington, DC. lays, and revenues are consistent with the ROBERT A. SUNSHINE DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: The enclosed report technical and economic assumptions of S. shows the effects of Congressional action on Con. Res. 70, the Concurrent Resolution on (For Peter R. Orszag, Director.) the fiscal year 2009 budget and is current the Budget for Fiscal Year 2009, as approved Enclosure. FISCAL YEAR 2009 HOUSE CURRENT LEVEL REPORT AS OF JUNE 13, 2008 (in millions of dollars)

Budget authority Outlays Revenues

Previously Enacted 1 Revenues ...... n.a. n.a. 2,097,399 Permanents and other spending legislation ...... 1,485,953 1,436,774 n.a. Appropriation legislation ...... 0 471,581 n.a. Offsetting receipts ...... ¥587,749 ¥587,749 n.a.

Total, Previously enacted ...... 898,204 1,320,606 2,097,399 Entitlements and mandatories: Budget resolution estimates of appropriated entitlements and other mandatory programs ...... 574,744 554,498 0 Total Current Level 2 ...... 1,472,948 1,875,104 2,097,399 Total Budget Resolution 3 ...... 2,531,681 2,566,881 2,029,644 Adjustment to budget resolution pursuant to section 301(b)(1) 4 ...... ¥70,000 ¥74,809 n.a. Adjustment to budget resolution pursuant to section 301(b)(2) 5 ...... ¥5,761 ¥1,152 n.a.

Adjusted Budget Resolution ...... 2,455,920 2,490,920 2,029,644 Current Level Over Budget Resolution ...... n.a. n.a. 67,755 Current Level Under Budget Resolution ...... 982,972 615,816 n.a. Memorandum: Revenues, 2009–2013: House Current Level ...... n.a. n.a. 12,116,677 House Budget Resolution ...... n.a. n.a. 11,780,107

Adjusted Budget Resolution ...... n.a. n.a. 11,780,107 Current Level Over Budget Resolution ...... n.a. n.a. 336,570 Current Level Under Budget Resolution ...... n.a. n.a. n.a. Source: Congressional Budget Office. Note: n.a. = not applicable; P.L. = Public Law. 1 Includes the following acts that affect budget authority, outlays, or revenues, and were cleared by the Congress during this session, but before the adoption of S. Con. Res. 70: National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (P.L. 110–181), Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–185), Andean Trade Preference Extension Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–191), Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–227), Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–229), Strategic Petroleum Reserve Fill Suspension and Consumer Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–232), Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–233), Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 1008 (P.L. 110– 234), SAFETEA–LU Technical Corrections Act of 2008 (P.L. 110–244), and Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Act (H.R. 6081). 2 For purposes of enforcing section 311 of the Congressional Budget Act in the House, the budget resolution does not include budget authority, outlays, or revenues for off-budget amounts. As a result, current level excludes these items. 3 Periodically, the House Committee on the Budget revises the totals in S. Con. Res. 70, pursuant to various provisions of the resolution: Budget authority Outlays Revenues

Original Budget Resolution ...... 2,530,703 2,565,903 2,029,612 Revisions: For the Strategic Petroleum Reserve Fill Suspension and Consumer Protection Act of 2008 (section 323(b)) ...... 950 950 0 For the Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act of 2008 (section 323(b)) ...... 28 28 32

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Budget authority Outlays Revenues

Revised Budget Resolution ...... 2,531,681 2,566,881 2,029,644 4 Section 301(b)(1) of S. Con. Res. 70 assumed $70,000 million in budget authority and $74,809 million in outlays for overseas deployment and related activities. Because action to date has not triggered this provision, the House Com- mittee on the Budget has directed that these amounts be excluded from the budget resolution aggregates in the current level report. 5 Section 301(b)(2) of S. Con. Res. 70 assumed $5,761 million in budget authority and $1,152 million in outlays for the Corps of Engineers. Because action to date has not triggered this provision, the House Committee on the Budget has directed that these amounts be excluded from the budget resolution aggregates in the current level report.

The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a In an era where athletes’ behavior Members of Congress to support this previous order of the House, the gen- and attitudes can be more infamous important piece of legislation. tleman from Utah (Mr. BISHOP) is rec- than celebrated, Bonnie’s self-effacing I believe that balancing a budget and ognized for 5 minutes. demeanor shows us how sportsmanship paying down the debt can be done. We (Mr. BISHOP of Utah addressed the should be practiced. I am amazed by will have to make tough choices now to House. His remarks will appear here- Bonnie’s athletic prowess, but I am ensure that our future remains finan- after in the Extensions of Remarks.) humbled by her easy and free manner cially solvent for our children. Thank f in which she praises her opponents, re- you for the opportunity to speak to- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a mains grateful for her gifts, and uplifts night, and thank you to all my Blue previous order of the House, the gen- those around her. Although such an at- Dog colleagues for their work in fur- tleman from Nebraska (Mr. titude may seem routine to her, a life- thering the PAYGO principle. FORTENBERRY) is recognized for 5 min- time has taught me that character like Mr. MATHESON. I thank my col- utes. hers is not as common as we would all league for his comments, a new Mem- (Mr. FORTENBERRY addressed the wish. ber of this body, but someone who rec- House. His remarks will appear here- Bonnie’s quiet confidence extends be- ognizes the importance of fiscal re- after in the Extensions of Remarks.) yond her abilities in track and field. sponsibility. I think that it’s important to expand f She is a well-rounded athlete who is an all-state basketball player and an ac- on what PAYGO is. This is a term that BONNIE RICHARDSON, A CHAM- complished tennis player. In addition, gets thrown around a lot in Wash- PION IN EVERY SENSE OF THE she is in the running to be named her ington, but we really ought to review WORD class valedictorian. It is clear to me what it means. And at its basis, it’s a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a that her attitude is an asset in all she pretty simple concept, and that is that previous order of the House, the gen- undertakes. if you have new spending, you’ve got to tleman from Texas (Mr. CONAWAY) is It is an honor to represent Bonnie pay for it. You’ve got to pay for it by recognized for 5 minutes. and all the students like her across the cutting spending elsewhere or raising Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, Hey- 11th District of Texas. As she prepares revenues, but you’ve got to pay for it. wood Broun, a renowned sportswriter for her senior year, and as her national And, you know, this isn’t a new con- and life-long champion of the under- notoriety begins to wane, I wish her cept even here in Washington. It turns dog, once said that ‘‘Sports do not luck in returning to her version of out back in 1990, during the presidency build character, they reveal it.’’ I’ve business as usual—excelling at every- of George H.W. Bush, Congress passed heard it before, but today I finally un- thing—and success in the upcoming legislation to put a pay-as-you-go, or derstand it thanks to Rochelle High season and beyond. PAYGO, policy into effect. And at that School junior Bonnie Richardson. f time, Congress came together in a bi- On the weekend of May 9 and 10 this partisan way and then President Bush year, high school athletes from all BLUE DOG COALITION signed that into law. across Texas gathered for the State The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under And when it was passed, it put us on track and field championship. At the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- a path to where decisions had to be meet, athletes compete for two honors, uary 18, 2007, the gentleman from Utah made where you had to live within a for success in each event as individuals (Mr. MATHESON) is recognized for 60 budget. Everybody in this town can and for the State championship as a minutes as the designee of the major- come up with a new idea about how to team. ity leader. spend money, both sides of the aisle, With Bonnie Richardson as a sole Mr. MATHESON. Mr. Speaker, I everyone can come up with those ideas. member of the Rochelle High School stand before you tonight to lead a dis- It’s easy to say yes to that. It’s a lot Lady Hornets to qualify for the meet, cussion among the Blue Dog Coalition more difficult to say, you know what, the Lady Hornets were the ultimate as we talk about issues of fiscal respon- we’re going to live within a budget. underdog to win a team trophy. Yet, sibility, pursuing a balanced budget, But you know what, we ought to be after medaling in all five of her and doing the right thing for future doing that because that’s what every- events—winning two golds, two silvers generations. one in this country does, everyone who and a bronze—Bonnie found herself in I would like to open this discussion runs a business, everyone in their own an unlikely position, standing atop the by recognizing one of my colleagues, household budget, everybody does that. podium to accept the girl’s Class 1A one of the newest members of the Blue So let’s look at what happened after team trophy. Her five individual med- Dogs, Mr. CAZAYOUX from Louisiana, passage of that law in 1990. There were als earned her 42 points, more than any and I would yield to him as much time a number of other things that hap- other school in her team’s class. She as he may consume. pened during the decade of the 1990s. also wrote herself into the Texas Track Mr. CAZAYOUX. Mr. Speaker, I rise There was a strong economic growth and Field history books as the only fe- tonight to express my support for the period, the dot-com industry really male ever to win a State team cham- PAYGO principles by which the Con- took off, and a whole series of reasons, pionship without the help of team- gress has committed to govern. including restraint on spending in mates. As a newly elected Member of Con- Washington, allowed us to move from While Bonnie’s accomplishment de- gress, PAYGO simply makes sense to annual deficits to annual surpluses. It fines the word ‘‘exceptional,’’ the depth me. Thomas Jefferson realized the im- was a remarkable period in our coun- of her character is not revealed in her portance of PAYGO principles nearly try’s history to have that transition medals or trophies, but in her attitude. 200 years ago when he said, ‘‘It is in- take place. And it was an exciting time Even as her story has been transmitted cumbent upon every generation to pay for this country. And it was good for around the world and back again, her its own debts as it goes.’’ the government’s books to be balanced comments reflect a young woman with In the 110th Congress, we have made and it was good for our economy, and it poise beyond her years. In every article PAYGO a priority, and I hope it con- led to a stronger dollar. I mention and in every quote, Bonnie has been tinues to remain a priority. My Blue that, and we’ll come back to that later very gracious to her competitors and Dog colleagues and I are cosponsoring in this discussion, because today we all modest in her unparalleled achieve- H.R. 2686 that will extend the PAYGO know we’re suffering from a rather low ment. rules through fiscal year 2012. I urge all dollar situation in the global economy.

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And that’s what the of constraints, if you will, on Wash- Social Security and Medicare that it is Blue Dogs are about. And that’s why ington—on Congress, on the President, going to take a very thoughtful and ag- I’m proud to be a member of the Blue on everybody, on Democrats, on Repub- gressive effort by this body in a bipar- Dog Coalition, because the Blue Dogs licans. It provided that constraint that tisan way to navigate through that like to look out for what’s right for asked people to live within a budget. challenge and make sure that we main- this country. And they take an inde- And after it expired, I think we all tain fiscal discipline and fiscal respon- pendent approach. And they want to sit know what happened. You had over 6 sibility. And pay-as-you-go, the down, roll up their sleeves, tackle years, 2001 through 2006, you had an ex- PAYGO principles, provide a tool. They these issues and work with everybody plosion of spending. You had an explo- provide a tool that would benefit all of on these issues. sion of debt. Annual deficits were so us. So that’s why we are here tonight, to large. And over those 6 years, our na- So this isn’t really, again, about talk about pay-as-you-go, to talk about tional debt went from $6 trillion to $9 Democrats or Republicans. This isn’t the benefits of this country. I have trillion. Now, you throw these numbers about trying to place blame on people been joined by some of my other Blue around, it almost gets to the point or anything else. It is really just talk- Dog colleagues. And I would like to where it’s hard to recognize what they ing about the fact that if you look at now recognize my good friend and col- really mean. But I think we all know a the way we are set up in this country league from the State of Georgia, Rep- trillion dollars is a lot of money. And I as a government, in the Federal side we resentative DAVID SCOTT, for as much think we all know that when you have are allowed to run deficits. You can time as he might consume. $6 trillion created through the whole have deficits if you don’t bring in as Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Thank you country’s history through the first 42 much revenues as you spend. In a lot of very much. It is always a pleasure to Presidents, and then during the first 6 States, they have constitutional come down and to be able to commu- years of the 43rd President you add an- amendments that require a balanced nicate with the American people with other $3 trillion, you’re adding a lot of budget. That doesn’t exist here in my distinguished members of our Blue debt in a short amount of time. And Washington. Dog Coalition. What I would like to do PAYGO didn’t exist. Spending took off As a result, as I said earlier, it is as a part of this discussion tonight is at a huge rate, greatest increase in easy to spend money. And over the to certainly communicate why we need government spending since the 1960s, in years both parties have shown an abil- to institute and maintain what we fact. ity to spend money. There’s no doubt have instituted or reinstituted, and about that. And so we need this exter- that is PAYGO, to pay our bills as we b 1945 nal constraint, if you will, of pay-as- go. That is what happened during those you-go. And I will go beyond that to Let me see if I can just set the stage first 6 years. And the Blue Dog Coali- say the Blue Dogs support a balanced to show the American people just how tion during all that time said, wait a budget, as well. That is one of the guid- precarious a position we are in both minute. Wait a minute. Let’s not get ing principles of the Blue Dog Coali- from a national security standpoint as into a deficit mode again. Let’s not tion, is a balanced budget amendment well as an economic security stand- create more debt that creates a burden to the Constitution. It takes a long point. As we stand right now, the na- on future generations who have to pay time to amend the Constitution. It tional debt is a staggering $9.13 tril- the interest on that debt. Let’s not en- takes many years to get enough States lion. That is almost $10 trillion of na- sure high taxes on future generations to ratify and whatnot. And that is an tional debt. And just to show you how to pay the interest on the debt. Let’s important goal. But pay-as-you-go we serious this is, we are accumulating recognize that we have an obligation to can do right away. We’ve had it as a this debt at an astounding rate of $1.4 future generations that they shouldn’t rule in the House. We would like to see billion every single day. That amounts have to pay for obligations that we it as a law. We want a statute passed to nearly $10 billion every week that have created on our watch. by the House and the Senate because it we are adding to our national debt. But we could never get the PAYGO will serve us all so well. And then we compound that. This principles put back into place. We I will close with one more comment. debt is not free. We must pay interest couldn’t get a vote to put it into stat- And I will recognize a couple of my colon this debt. And the interest on this ute. We couldn’t get it in a rule of the leagues from the Blue Dog Coalition to debt last year alone was an astounding House of Representatives, either, until participate in this discussion. But I $430 billion. So I can put that in per- January of 2007. There was a change in just want to come back, as I men- spective. Just the interest that we pay control in the House of Representa- tioned, to the issue of the low dollar we for borrowing this money is four times tives. And on the first day when we have today. When you’re borrowing more than what we pay for education, were all sworn in here to take the oath lots of money, and the United States for the health of our children, for our of office for the 110th Congress, we set has been borrowing a lot of money veterans and homeland security com- the rules that we are going to work from foreign lenders, that devalues the bined. Folks, that’s mighty, mighty under during that 2-year session. And dollar. It’s a supply-and-demand issue. dangerous ground for this country to in that rule, pay-as-you-go was put in And we’re having to borrow to pay for be on. That is one of the foremost rea- place for the House of Representatives. so much in this country. And we know sons why we must change this direc- And I am really proud of the Blue that that low dollar has had some seri- tion, or else we are going off the cliff. Dog Coalition for taking the lead on ous implications for us. Oil is priced on And this is something that is of very, pushing that rule to be put in place. It a dollar-per-barrel basis. The global very much concern to Democrats, I is not easy to live under a budget. The market is one market for everybody. think to some Republicans as well, and PAYGO rule has been attacked. And And as other currencies in the world go most assuredly, to our Blue Dog Coali- yes, there have been a couple of cir- up, as the dollar goes down, that means tion that is providing the leadership cumstances where it has been waived. the price per barrel in dollars is going here so that we can be responsible. But I think that the Blue Dog Coali- up. That’s just one example of where a Now let me just add another point. tion deserves a lot of credit for taking low-dollar policy can have a serious This money that we are borrowing is a stand, forcing the tough decisions, impact on our economy and on the broken down into two groups. Of the and quite frankly, creating the dy- daily lives of all of us. $9.13 trillion in debt, about $5.1 trillion namic where I think there has been a A strong dollar and a dollar that we of that is what we call the public debt. real restraint on this body in terms of can be proud of can be reinforced by The other $4 trillion is debt that we

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5466 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 incur through our private means, why we have got no choice in this mat- four from the Blue Dog Coalition and through borrowing from Social Secu- ter. We’ve got to pay our bills. five from the New Democratic Coali- rity and other government agencies. And it is a great testimony to the tion. We met in my office before going But let’s just look at that public debt leadership of the Blue Dogs and cer- over. for a moment because the other reason tainly the leadership of the Democratic We only had a 45-minute meeting, that this is so much of a great concern party in this Congress that we have in- and I think all of us had a little con- is the threat to our national security. deed instituted pay-as-you-go so that cern that somebody, if we didn’t have Because, ladies and gentlemen, 45 per- we can have both economic security as any ground rules, might spend more cent of our public debt is being bor- well as national security. The Amer- time and take virtually all of the time. rowed from foreign governments, and ican people deserve no less. So we agreed, if we had a chance to not just any foreign government. We Mr. MATHESON. I want to thank my speak at all—and the President was are borrowing this money from places colleague from Georgia for those running the meeting—that we would like China. They have $500 billion of words. He is an excellent member of each take 2 minutes. our debt. Japan has $601 billion of our the Blue Dog Coalition. When it was my turn, I said, ‘‘Mr. debt. And then Saudi Arabia and the And Mr. Speaker, I would like to President, I’m a year older than you oil-producing OPEC nations have $153 yield back my portion to let Mr. BOYD are. I have seven-and-a-half grand- billion in debt. And then if we go to control the rest of the 60 minutes if I children, and we have mortgaged their places like Russia, $43 billion, and to could. future.’’ I said, ‘‘I’m not pointing at Korea, $42 billion. And I think you are f you and your administration. This goes getting the picture, ladies and gentle- back 25 years to Democratic and Re- men. These are countries that we have THE BLUE DOG COALITION publican Presidents.’’ Although, be- got to deal with firmly. It is under- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. cause I was trying to find common mining our security to have our debt in DONNELLY). Under the Speaker’s an- ground, what I did not say was our debt the hands of these countries because he nounced policy of January 18, 2007, the in this country has gone up over $3.4 who controls your debt controls you gentleman from Florida (Mr. BOYD) is trillion in the last 7 years. Fully a and your future. And it begins to weak- recognized for the remainder of the third of our debt has been added in the en our leverage in dealing on the inter- hour as the designee of the majority last 7 years of this Presidency. national stage. leader. I tell folks back home all the time Let me just give you one example. Mr. BOYD of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it that 80 percent of what we do in Con- About 3 or 4 weeks ago, our President is great to see you in that chair as a gress should not be about Democrats Bush went over to Saudi Arabia, yes, to member of the Blue Dogs, a freshman and Republicans. It ought to be about really try to do something about the member of the Blue Dogs. We are very taking care of our people and our coun- high price of gasoline that my dear proud of you. And also I want to thank try, and I think people out there really friends on the other side have just my friend and colleague from Utah believe that and want that to happen. talked about a few moments ago. But (Mr. MATHESON). Mr. MATHESON has Put aside this partisanship, and let’s here is the President going to Saudi been a solid leader of the Blue Dog Coa- work together. Working together for Arabia begging hat in hand basically to lition since he arrived here 6 or 8 years fiscal responsibility should not be a ask the Saudis to increase their oil ago. And he actually, in the previous partisan matter at all. We should all be output. Keep in mind that it only costs Congress, served as one of the Chairs of concerned about that because, as Mr. the Saudis $2 a barrel to get that oil the Blue Dog Coalition. And I am SCOTT, the previous speaker, pointed out of the ground. And now it’s going grateful to him for his leadership and out, we have a large portion of our debt for what, $120, $130 a barrel? But the also for filling in tonight. Thank you right now held by foreign nations that Saudis said ‘‘no.’’ In the back of their very much, Mr. MATHESON. might have control over some of our minds I am sure they were saying, we At this time, Mr. Speaker, I would actions in the future by virtue of the got your oil, and we got your debt. like to yield as much time as he would fact that they hold our debt. We should That’s why I’m saying that this debt consume to our friend, the gentleman be very concerned about that, and we situation is placing our Nation in a ter- from Kansas, DENNIS MOORE, who is the should try to do something positive ribly precarious situation from an eco- cochair of the Blue Dog Coalition. He is about that. nomic security standpoint as well as a the cochair for policy. So I will yield at Mr. Speaker, we have an opportunity, national security standpoint. And we this time to Mr. MOORE. I think, at this time with the reinstitu- have got to change that. tion of a rule called PAYGO that ex- And finally, I want to just add this b 2000 pired in 2002. Some of the previous one point, too, because this business of Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Thank you, speakers, I think, have told you continually not only having this huge Mr. BOYD. I appreciate the opportunity ‘‘PAYGO’’ simply means ‘‘pay as you debt, which we’ve got to saddle on the to speak here tonight about something go.’’ If you have a new spending pro- backs of our grandchildren and other that should be very important and posal, a new program proposal or a new generations, is not fair to them. But that, I believe, is very important to tax cut, section 1 is here is my pro- not only that, but the monies that we every one of us whether we acknowl- posal, and section 2 is here is how it’s are spending in Iraq and in Afghanistan edge and understand the importance or paid for so it’s revenue neutral and are being borrowed from China and not. doesn’t increase our deficit and our Japan. After the change in the last election debt. To me, that is a very simple, un- Finally, on the foreign standpoint, it when we got the majority after 8 derstandable rule that we all should is very important to really dramatize years—and this is my 10th year in Con- follow. If we do that, we can stop this the seriousness of this debt. Over the gress, and as Mr. BOYD said, I am the increase which is going to be detri- last 8 years, since 2001, we have bor- policy cochair for the Blue Dog Coali- mental to future generations in our rowed under this President and this tion—the Blue Dog Coalition leader- country. Congress, he couldn’t have done it by ship was invited, along with the leader- The Blue Dogs passed out a chart himself, more money from foreign gov- ship of a group called the New Demo- that’s not manufactured or made by ernments than we have borrowed in the cratic Coalition, over to the White our group. I think it’s U.S. Budget previous 224 years of our existence. House to meet with the President. ‘‘something,’’ and you can get it on the That’s right, ladies and gentlemen. We Frankly, I think all of us appreciated Web site. It shows a bar graph of ex- have borrowed more money under the the opportunity to go over and to meet penditures in our country, different Bush administration and under this with the President because we wanted categories of expenditures. The big last 7 years of Congress than we have to discuss items of interest to people in three bars on the bottom are, as most done in the previous 42 administrations our Nation, not on a partisan basis but people would imagine, defense. We all of this country. That is numbing. It is simply to find some common ground want an adequate defense for our Na- mind-boggling. This is a terrible situa- where we could work together. There tion; the Department of Health and tion for us to be in. This is the reason were, I believe, nine of us all together— Human Services, which basically is

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That’s money that lieves in pay-as-you-go rules, the pre- cussion tonight, ‘‘a 63-year-old cattle could be used for education, for health dictions that we were all making in our farmer from Florida’s panhandle, care, for anything worthwhile besides campaigns were actually coming true. thinks Americans have been lulled into paying interest on a debt. That was, if you have PAYGO, it is the believing that any new program or tax Folks, we have got to get back to liv- one discipline that Congress can prac- cut will fly, ‘and if there’s a gap, we ing like most American families do, tice that will actually produce bal- just go overseas and borrow the within a budget. We have got to do anced budgets and surpluses, and that’s money.’ We go to the piggy bank in the this, not just for us. It’s not about us. exactly what happened in the year 2000. People’s Republic of China until it goes It’s about our children and our grand- I can remember at the time that I was empty or until they cut it off.’’ children and about future generations thinking, now, finally, we’ve got a han- What is this talk about China that in this country. I believe we owe them dle on the deficit, that we’re actually we’re talking about here tonight? the very best, and we owe them to do producing surpluses, surpluses to the Well, because the American govern- that. tune from a lot of economists of $1 tril- ment can not pay its debts, it has to I encourage and I ask that our com- lion over 10 years, that we could actu- borrow money. One of the countries patriots across the aisle, our Repub- ally start doing the things that have to that we’re borrowing money from is lican friends, join with us and support be done to correct some problems that the People’s Republic of China. I think this concept of PAYGO because we we have with Social Security, with most people, when they hear that, are need to do this for future generations paying down the debt, with maybe re- appalled that we’re actually borrowing in our country. ducing some taxes. That’s the position money from China to pay for our debts Mr. BOYD of Florida. I want to thank the Blue Dogs took when those sur- that we have here in the United States. Now, what does this mean in trans- my friend and colleague, Mr. MOORE pluses materialized. We advocated pay- from Kansas, for coming tonight to ing down the debt, fixing Social Secu- lation in terms of how this affects the real lives of most Americans? Here is speak to us on behalf of the fiscally re- rity and cutting taxes. sponsible 49-member-strong Blue Dog Then we had an election, and Mr. what it does. These PAYGO rules are tough for Coalition. DENNIS MOORE has been a Bush became President of the United Congress. They’re tough for Members great leader on this issue in Congress States, and the Republicans grew their like myself and Congressman BOYD be- ever since he got here 8 or 10 years ago, majorities. They had a different way of cause we’ve got to make the tough de- and I’m very pleased to work with him. looking at things, and that’s okay. cisions about how we’re going to pay Mr. Speaker, this whole notion of That’s what elections are all about. In for programs that we think the Amer- how we run our government’s fiscal that particular year, the Republicans ican people deserve, and we’ve got a matters is not rocket science. The peo- won, and they wanted to change the tough vote coming up here in the very ple watching us out in the country to- policies. near future on the GI Bill. night understand that they have to One of the policies they changed was We all believe as Blue Dogs that our balance their budgets in their own in dropping the principle of PAYGO. I veterans who are coming home from households. They have to balance their can remember, at the time they Iraq and Afghanistan deserve addi- budgets in their own small businesses. dropped the principle of PAYGO, that tional education benefits through the They can’t spend more money than people like ALLEN BOYD and BARON GI Bill, and the Blue Dogs want to vote they take in. In local governments, if HILL and other Blue Dogs were warning for this bill, but we’ve got to pay for it they didn’t balance their budgets, if that, if you dropped this discipline, because it’s going to cost approxi- they continuously spent more money there would be a good chance that mately $60 billion. than they took in, the people would these surpluses that we had then would I would think that any veteran who elect somebody else. It’s only the disappear. Well, that’s exactly what is listening out there on C–SPAN all United States Government that doesn’t happened. across this Nation, that most of the put in place a requirement that it lives In the year 2000–2002, there was an ap- American people and that most people within its means. proximately $6 trillion deficit, which in this Congress would believe that we I think it’s time that we fix this. The was bad enough, but with the surpluses should not be borrowing money from Blue Dogs will continue to press this that we knew were going to be created the Chinese to pay for the GI Bill. I issue. PAYGO is one of the tools that we thought we were going to be able to think most veterans would agree to we can use to make this happen. fix that. Now that those policies were that, but that’s what I mean when I I’m delighted to be joined tonight by changed, we predicted that the deficit say it’s tough to have these PAYGO other Blue Dog members. There is no would grow. Sure enough, it has. It is rules. We have to make the tough deci- member who is more passionate about now $9 trillion in debt. So it took us sions about how to balance the needs of this issue and more principled on this well over 200 years to go $6 trillion in the American people in terms of vet- issue than our friend and colleague debt, and because we dropped those erans’ programs and also how to bal- from Indiana, Representative BARON PAYGO rules, in 8 short years, we’ve ance the needs of the American people HILL. added another $3 trillion to the na- because, I think, most veterans would I would like to yield to Representa- tional deficit. not want us to borrow this money from tive HILL now whatever time he may As Congressman MOORE said earlier the Chinese in order for their children consume. this evening, we are paying huge and grandchildren to pay for that vet- Mr. HILL. I thank my friend, Con- amounts of interest on that deficit, and erans’ program. gressman BOYD from Florida, for being it is growing, and it is spiraling out of So that is the reality of PAYGO a leader of the Blue Dogs on this par- control. We have got to get a handle on rules. It disciplines Congress. Quite ticular issue. it. frankly, the Blue Dogs are the only Mr. Speaker, I remember when I got Now, there was an article in the U.S. ones in Congress right now who are in- elected back in 1998 that PAYGO rules News and World Report recently that sisting that these rules remain in place were in place, and there was the strong talked about the Blue Dogs’ advocating so that we can discipline the Members possibility that if we kept those rules these PAYGO rules. Let me read you a of Congress in doing the right thing. in place that we would actually bit of what it said. So this is just not I throw that out there about the vet- produce surpluses for the first time in, the Blue Dogs who are pontificating erans’ programs. These are the tough I think, probably 40 years. Well, that here tonight and who are bragging on decisions that we have to make. Con- dream did come true. PAYGO rules the policies that created surpluses in gressman BOYD and myself and every were in place in 1998 when I got elected, the year 2000. Blue Dog in this Chamber want to and they were in place in 1999 and in ‘‘The Blue Dog Democrats are color- make sure that we extend those bene- the year 2000. Those rules that were in fully named, but they’re dead serious fits to our veterans who deserve them,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5468 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 but we’re going to insist that it be paid were put in place. We had an economic Those were the recommendations for because, I think, our veterans turnaround and, lo and behold, the that we as Blue Dogs made to the would demand that, and I think the next thing you knew all kinds of good White House and their fiscal team, American people would demand that. things were happening. their budget team. What do they decide Mr. BOYD of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I In 1997, Congress put in place The to do? They said, no, we can’t pay down know that the viewers can see the pas- Balanced Budget Act. I had just gotten debt, and we don’t have time to fix So- sion that exists within Congressman here as a brand-new freshman, and I cial Security and Medicare. We have BARON HILL. He is a great Member of was very fortunate to be a part of the got to take all the money we can get Congress. He is a good leader of the Blue Dogs in some ways, and in some our hands on and put it in tax cuts. Blue Dogs. I am happy to serve with minor way involved in helping Presi- The number back then was about $1.7 him and to call him my colleague. dent Clinton and the congressional trillion. It was projected now, it wasn’t He has explained what the PAYGO leadership get the votes to pass that real, it was projected. That was like in rule does. It makes us make the hard budget, The Balanced Budget Act. June of 2001. choices. If money just grew on trees, That was an important act in 1997, September 11, 2001, everybody here we could do any program we wanted, and statutory PAYGO, the law of the listening knows what happened. All but somebody has to pay for these pro- land, paying your bills as you go, don’t those projections, every assumption grams, and we either pay for them borrow money to do it. If you are going that went into that rejection went out today or we borrow the money and send to have a program, you have either got the window on September 11, 2001. the bill to our children, along with an to cut spending someplace or find a After the Bush economic plan had interest bill, down the road. We think revenue source. That was a good tool, been put into place, then what do we do that’s immoral. We think it’s wrong, and it served this country well eco- as a government? We just charge right inherently wrong. nomically, the greatest economic ex- ahead with that economic plan. You I know Mr. HILL said that the Blue pansion in the history of this Nation have seen a continuation or a return to Dogs care passionately about PAYGO during the 1990s, the greatest economic budget deficits that have set records in and about getting this thing back on expansion in the history of this Nation the last 3 or 4 years, highest budget track. We went to Speaker PELOSI after during the 1990s. The government was deficits in the history of this Nation. You have seen an increase, as BARON the 2006 election and said we would like doing its part, acting responsibly in HILL said, from $5.6 trillion debt to the to do this. We know that we can’t get the discharging of its duties and acting a debt that is expected this year to a statutory PAYGO, which is one that fiscally responsible. pass $10 trillion, $10 trillion, trillion goes into law. So, what happened, $290 billion def- with a ‘‘T.’’ That’s a lot of zeros on the As you know, Mr. Speaker, in order icit in 1992, we worked hard together, end of it. I think it’s about 12. I am not for it to go into law, the House would we cut spending, we put in place the even sure. PAYGO rules. Lo and behold, at the have to pass it; the Senate would have So the economic policy is wrong, and to pass it, and the President would end of the 1990s and the year 2000, we the Blue Dogs are going to insist that have to sign it. We were assured by had a budget surplus for the first time, we do it differently. If we have to take some other bodies and the White House as BARON HILL said, for the first time baby steps, if we have to do with a that that wouldn’t happen. in 40 years, with we had a budget sur- PAYGO rule, we are going to stand So we asked the Speaker to at least plus. tough when it comes to the votes on put a rule in place in the House of Rep- The next year, I think it was 1999, we that rule. We are hopeful that the resentatives that would make the had our first one. The next year in 2000, other Members of Congress, House and House abide by PAYGO. We knew it we had another one, over $200 billion Senate and the White House, will come wouldn’t be as good as statutory surplus. It was unheard of in recent to us on this position of fiscal responsi- PAYGO, but it would, in some ways, American history. bility. serve the same purpose. It would be a Then what happened? We had an elec- Mr. HILL. Will the gentleman yield? rule for which the House would have to tion. The economic forecasters were Mr. BOYD of Florida. I will be glad to take a two-thirds vote. Even though it forecasting over a $5 trillion surplus, yield to the gentleman from Indiana. would only apply to us in the House, its projected surplus. Now, it’s not Mr. HILL. I was listening with great the House would have to take a two- real, it’s projected if things worked interest what the gentleman from Flor- thirds vote to waive that. She agreed like they were supposed to for the next ida was talking about as he went again to do that, to her credit, and she is a 10 years. down history lane and about what hap- great advocate of the PAYGO principle. We had an election, had a new Presi- pened in late 1999 and the year 2000, be- dent, and that President and the Con- b 2015 cause I get asked quite often, you gress decided that they wanted to go a know, how are we going to balance our I am grateful to her and the Blue different route, as BARON HILL says. budgets? It’s almost like when I go Dogs are grateful to her for her posi- Now, they came and met with the Blue home that my constituents don’t feel tion on PAYGO. Dogs. like it is it’s realistic for us to be Now, we would like to see PAYGO be- I remember Vice President CHENEY thinking about balancing the budget. come part of the law, like it was back and the OMB Director, who now is the They don’t think there is any prac- in the 1990s. PAYGO, along with discre- governor of Indiana, came and met tical way that we can balance our tionary spending caps and other tools with us. We told them they needed to budget, but we can now use history as that were used, enabled us to dig out of do three things with that surplus. our guide that back in the late 1990s a hole back in 1992, the largest deficit Cut taxes, who doesn’t want to have and 2000, these issues of PAYGO in the history of the Nation at that lower taxes? We know what lower taxes worked and produced surpluses, and it time, $290 billion. do for our people. It gives them more was Blue Dog proposals during those Congress, working together with the to spend on their own families, and it surplus years, that we should cut taxes, White House, and in the 1990s, that was helps economically. Cut taxes, number that we should pay down the debt, and mid-1990s and late 1990s, that was a Re- one. that we should fix Social Security. publican-led Congress, and a democrat- Pay down debt, number two. Debt Now, we are not able to do that be- ically controlled White House, working was continuing to climb, and we cause we are running up these huge together in a bipartisan way, put in thought it was important to pay that deficits again. It’s important that we place statutory PAYGO, discretionary down. return to fiscal discipline by imple- spending caps and other budget en- Thirdly, we could see the baby boom- menting these PAYGO rules. forcement tools. This enabled us to dig er retirement coming right over the Now, I don’t know about you, Con- out of that big deficit hole, $290 billion horizon, and we knew Social Security gressman BOYD. Well, I do know about in 1992 is what we were borrowing to and Medicare were in trouble. Let’s you. We have had many, many discus- operate this government, $290 billion. take some of that projected surplus sions about this in the Blue Dogs. Blue For the efforts of the Congress and and use it to fix Social Security and Dogs meet every Tuesday at 5:00 to the White House in the 1990s, tools Medicare. talk about this issue.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5469 But I believe, as you pointed out In 1992, the net savings in the U.S. Foreign Affairs Committee, as you today very eloquently at the Blue Dog economy, the net savings, by all of its know. In addition to that, I serve on meeting, that it is immoral for us to be citizens, were only 3 percent. Eight the Middle East Subcommittee and am passing on this debt. It is immoral that years later, after fiscal discipline and vice chairman of the Subcommittee on we are not fixing Social Security for moving from a deficit to a surplus, sav- International Trade, Nuclear Prolifera- our children and our grandchildren. ings was at a 6 percent level, had dou- tion and Terrorism, and I am a sitting It’s going to be probably okay for us, bled, from 3 percent in 1992 to 6 percent member of NATO’s Parliamentary As- but it’s going to be a real problem if we in 2000. Actually, you know what these sembly. I mention those committees don’t fix it for our children. It’s also savings are due, they are used to fi- that I serve on because it puts me in a going to be a problem if we don’t fix nance investment, domestic invest- pretty good position as we get around Medicare. It’s probably going to be ment, and it makes the economy grow the world to really focus on this other okay for us, but it’s probably not going and everything works better. side as to why we have to pay this debt to be okay for our children and grand- Unemployment, obviously unemploy- down. We don’t have all of the answers, children unless we start to fix these ment is an issue that we are all very but it is incumbent upon us to start problems. concerned about today. We saw some this ball rolling. The very future of our One of the ways that we fix it that figures come out last week, we are now country is at stake. was thrown down and thrown away at about 5.5 percent. In this past winter’s meeting when after the elections in the year 2000, one In the early 1990s, unemployment was we were at NATO, word came out that way we fix it is to return to the days of at 7.5 percent. Those fiscal discipline a Chinese lawmaker, and incidentally, fiscal discipline so that we can create tools were put in place and the govern- we are borrowing $500 billion from the these surpluses again. ment began to act responsibly from a Chinese, he stands up and he says I We create the surpluses, and then we fiscal perspective. By 2000, 8 years later think we ought to now start buying can begin to fix Social Security and that, the unemployment rate had euros instead of dollars, and the stock Medicare and other programs that the dropped from 7.5 percent down to 4 permarket plunged 300 points. That is American people demand, want and decent. Now, you know, we are back up at what I am talking about in terms of serve. that time 5.5 percent figure. our own national security, the threat So the Blue Dogs are not only speak- Let’s talk about jobs. The average that we have if we do not take care of ing for the principle of PAYGO rules annual increase in jobs in America dur- this debt, particularly in the hands of and fiscal discipline just on the merits ing the 8 years from 1992 to 2000 was foreign countries. of fiscal discipline and PAYGO, this is during the Bill Clinton presidency at a The other point is in Russia, for ex- about programs that we believe in and time when Congress and the President ample, it is tied into our failure to deal getting our fiscal House in order so were working together to solve this with this debt, it is tied into our en- that we can preserve Social Security, deficit problem. The average job cre- ergy dependence. And $46 billion of our so that we can preserve Medicare and ation number was 2.8 million a year, an debt is in the hands of Russia whom we so that we can start paying down this additional 2.8 million jobs a year. are having a difficult time with. Any debt so that we are not passing it on to Does anybody, do you have any idea reason why? And they are now Iran’s our children and grandchildren. what it has been since the year 2000, number one buddy. And dig this, Mr. Congressman BOYD was right at the since the new administration, since BOYD, this is the interesting point: 45 Blue Dog meeting today, and he is this administration came in? It’s actu- percent of all of the natural gas re- right tonight to say that it is immoral ally less than a half a million a year. serves are controlled by Russia and if we don’t start fixing these problems. You figure all that out over a period Iran. And they hold our debt. Mr. BOYD of Florida. I thank my of 8 years, it’s 15 to 20 million jobs that When you combine that with the $153 friend for those insightful remarks. we didn’t create. Many of us think it’s billion that the OPEC countries hold, May I ask the Speaker how much because of the deficit problems that and the treatment that they gave our time we have remaining? exist, the irresponsible fiscal policy of President when he went there and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- this Nation. asked for them to increase their oil tleman from Florida has 14 minutes I want to recognize my friend from output and they said no. The comment left. Georgia again, but I want to close this was we control your oil and we control Mr. BOYD of Florida. I thank my point by reminding our viewers that your debt. friend, Mr. HILL of Indiana. PAYGO helped with this economic The point I am getting at is this, You know, looking back at the 1990s boom. Fiscal discipline and the con- that our failure to pay down this debt and coming out of an era where we duct of the government’s business is an will have a devastating impact on the didn’t have much fiscal discipline in important part of how this economy future of our country and our ability to the 1990s and then to a period where we works. We can increase productivity, have the leverage we need to survive on put in place some tools, I want to cite we can increase gross domestic prod- the world stage. some statistics to you. Of course, I al- uct, and we increase employment. I just wanted to make that point ready talked about one, in 1992 this I want to remind you that the eco- from the foreign affairs perspective on country had a deficit of $290 billion, nomic expansion of 1991 to 2000 was the why we have to put these PAYGO rules deficit, annual deficit. That was the largest in U.S. history. We can do it in and make them stick. largest at that time in the history of again, but we have to start disciplining Mr. BOYD of Florida. I thank my the Nation. ourselves, and we have to get away friend from Georgia for bringing forth By the year 2000, we had turned that from this notion that we can have that point from the foreign affairs per- into a $236 billion surplus, which was every program we want, and we can spective. It is a good and valid point. also the largest surplus in U.S. history. have every tax cut we want, and we go Mr. Speaker, we live in the greatest Again, that’s about a $526 billion swing somewhere else and borrow the money and richest Nation on the face of the in 8 years with good fiscal manage- and not worry about paying for those Earth. We have 5 percent of the world’s ment. programs. population and control 25 percent of Actually, President Clinton was the I would like to yield to my friend the world’s wealth. If we are not care- recipient of those PAYGO policies, but from Georgia. ful and with poor fiscal management, he was very involved, and he believed we will shift a good portion of that in it. He, working with the Congress, b 2030 wealth to other parts of the world. helped write those PAYGO policies. He Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Thank you A couple of statistics, and I don’t was also committed to fiscal discipline, very much, Mr. BOYD. know what the trade deficit is today, however unpopular that trend was back I want to go back and complement but we are running huge trade deficits then, but it also, by doing that, fos- what you are saying because you are as a result of the oil prices. That trade tered very rapid growth in net national hitting it from the domestic side in deficit is ever increasing as a result of savings and investment in this coun- terms of our jobs. I want to com- the increasing cost of oil because a ma- try. plement that because I serve on the jority of our oil, more than half of our

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Repub- what we think is the core value system time since I think maybe World War II, licans and Democrats come together to that we have been proud of in this Na- 2 years ago this country had a negative talk about something that is the cor- tion, and that is the rich history of savings rate. That goes directly to the nerstone of the American experience, faith that we have. management of our fiscal policy and and that is the rich history of faith Now, Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege the performance of the economy. I that we have had in this country that to yield to my good friend, the gen- think that it is sad that we as a nation has helped create our greatness, helped tleman from North Carolina (Mr. MCIN- have a negative savings rate. We need sustain us and that many of us who TYRE). to turn that around and one of the will speak here tonight for this next Mr. MCINTYRE. Mr. Speaker, I things that we can do as a government hour believe will continue to sustain us thank RANDY FORBES for his great is do our job well. Let’s identify those in years to come. work in helping us put this event to- functions that we are supposed to do as Mr. Speaker, right behind you together tonight. a government, national security, trans- night is a great phrase. It says ‘‘In God Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. portation, education, and environ- We Trust.’’ As you stare out all around Res. 888 which affirms the rich spir- mental protection. We need good this magnificent room, you see some of itual and religious history of our Na- strong foreign policy, and there are the greatest lawgivers history and the tion’s founding and subsequent history some other areas. But we ought to be world has ever known. But the ones and designates the first week of May willing and make sure that we perform you see across this room, you see just each year as American Religious His- those functions well, and we ought to half of their face, their half profile ex- tory Week for the appreciation of and be willing to pay for them and we cept the one directly in front of you education on America’s history of reli- ought not be wasting money. which is Moses who we recognize as gious faith. I agree with many on the other side perhaps one of the greatest lawgivers As we join together on the floor of of the aisle that we can root out some of all. the U.S. House and stand beneath these waste. There has to be tremendous co- And throughout our country we have words ‘‘In God We Trust,’’ while recog- operation between the legislative body been steeped in an enormous history of nizing the importance of a religious and the executive branch to figure out faith that starts all of the way back history week, let us remember the how to do that because the executive with the commission that Christopher words of our Founding Fathers. branch obviously operates those agen- Columbus had when they talked about ‘‘We, the people of the United States, cies that we appropriate money for. So the grace of God; the first colonial in order to form a more perfect union, it is their job to operate them and op- grant to Sir Walter Raleigh in 1584, the establish justice, ensure domestic tran- erate them efficiently, and we have an grace of God was mentioned in there. quility, provide for the common de- oversight role and we ought to con- The first charter of Virginia in 1606, it fense, promote the general welfare, and tinue to do that. referenced knowledge and worship of secure the blessings of liberty to our- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my God. The Mayflower Compact in 1620, it selves and our posterity, do ordain and friend from Georgia for being here and talked about having undertaken for the establish this Constitution for the I want to thank the other Blue Dogs glory of God. The Declaration of Inde- United States of America.’’ who came in and helped today. I see an- pendence we all know and can cite that So begins our Constitution with other good Blue Dog in the Speaker’s those inalienable rights were endowed those words of the Preamble. chair now, Representative SPACE from to us by what the writers of that docu- But let us turn back the hands of Ohio, one of our freshmen members, ment said were their creator. time for a moment. The day is Sep- and we are very pleased to see you. You The first act of Congress, 1774, they tember 17, 1787. The time is 4 p.m. Thir- look good up there, Mr. Speaker. asked a minister to open with prayer, ty-nine men from across the United f and they read four chapters of the States look at another one with solemn Bible. And during the Civil War we are but joyous faces. The arguments are OUR RICH HISTORY OF FAITH told that soldiers on both sides, Union over; the prayers have been answered; The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under and Confederates, that religion was the and the miracle has occurred: the Con- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- greatest sustainer of morale. stitution of the United States has just uary 18, 2007, the gentleman from Vir- Of course we know numerous stories been signed. From May 25 until now, ginia (Mr. FORBES) is recognized for 60 of the great faith of men and women as for four long hot months, these men minutes as the designee of the minor- they were in slavery and fought to get have toiled, not knowing whether their ity leader. out of that horrible institution. work was one of wisdom or folly. They Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, tonight is In 1815, over 2,000 official government have their hopes and their doubts. And a rather historic night because as peo- calls to prayer had been made by they wondered whether it would suc- ple might be watching this at home, or States in the Federal Government, and ceed or fail to sustain this infant coun- if they happen to still be in this great, thousands more have been made since try. historic Chamber, if you look around, then. The oldest delegate, Ben Franklin, this room is draped with history. Un- In 1864 Congress added ‘‘In God We rises from his chair. At age 81, he has fortunately, when people look at this Trust’’ to the American coinage. seen this young Nation flounder al- great assembly hall in which so many In 1870, the Federal Government ready under 4 years of indecisive gov- great debates and great pieces of legis- made Christmas an official holiday. ernment that divided rather than lation have passed, what they have be- In 1931, the Star Spangled Banner united. He looks around the room at come accustomed to seeing is if you are was our national anthem, including the the men, many of whom were in their on this side of the aisle whenever there phrase ‘‘in God is our trust.’’ 20s and 30s. And he stares once more at is anything that goes wrongs, there are In 1954 we added the phrase ‘‘one Na- the chair occupied by George Wash- fingers pointed on that side of the aisle tion under God’’ to the Pledge of Alle- ington at the head of the assembly. He in trying to blame everyone sitting giance. had speculated what the half-sun paint- over here. Of course the folks on that And in 1956, Congress by law made ed on the chair signified. And he said side of the aisle are turning over here ‘‘In God We Trust’’ our national motto. then, ‘‘I have often in the course of this and pointing their fingers in this direc- And, of course, we all know the signifi- session looked at that behind the tion. If anything good takes place, the cant role that faith and religion and President without being able to tell folks on this side of the aisle want to the church played in the civil rights whether it was rising or setting. But stand up and take credit for those movement. now at length I have the happiness to

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The United States was a Adams, our second president, said when to lepers, building chapels and com- rising and not a setting one, a Nation our constitution was made? ‘‘Only for a forting the sick before leprosy took his whose rays of influence, as we know, moral and religious people, it is wholly own life. would one day be felt the world over. inadequate to the government of any The accomplishments of these reli- But when we think about why this other.’’ gious men honored in Statuary Hall miracle occurred, when we look back Mr. Speaker, I challenge us tonight, are felt coast to coast. Now, hundreds 221 years later, do we know what hap- as we share this time together, I thank of years later, religion is still impor- pened in that hall before those 39 men Mr. FORBES for giving me this oppor- tant, and I’m committed to continuing came out and announced that they had, tunity to share this occasion with him the efforts started by these great men. instead of rewriting the Articles of and all of my colleagues who will soon Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I thank Confederation had written a new con- follow, that we support H. Res. 888 as the congressman from Arkansas for his stitution for our country. They had de- American Religious History Week so great leadership on this; and now rec- liberated, they had argued and debated. that we, as a country, will never forget ognize another leader from the State of They had made sure that everyone’s the very words and actions of our New Mexico, Congressman STEVE opinion was heard. Secondly, they founding fathers, who we are as a Na- PEARCE. showed their dedication in addition to tion, how deep our religious roots run, Mr. PEARCE. Thank you, Mr. Speak- their deliberation. That meant that and remind us of the historical signifi- er, and thank you, Mr. FORBES for your they had put in sweat and long hours cance that is well documented, of faith leadership in this call to establish trying to find out what would benefit and prayer, that we celebrate Amer- American Religious History Week. us all. But in addition to that delibera- ica’s religious heritage, that we re- Also, as a cosponsor of H. Res. 888, tion and dedication, they also showed member that we have opportunities in I’m strongly supportive of the idea their devotion. this great land that God has blessed us that we should remember that we b 2045 with, and may we always honor those should always acknowledge the found- opportunities in our reliance upon di- ing fathers’ belief that this Nation was They knew that their reliance must vine providence. not be just upon themselves, but first indeed blessed by our Maker, that we Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, we just would, as a Nation, acknowledge our and foremost, upon God. appreciate the leadership of Congress- And as Franklin himself, who was corporate belief. man MCINTYRE on all of these issues of not known as one of the most religious It’s important to remember not only faith. MIKE, thank you so much. our founding, but also to take a look at founding fathers, but himself acknowl- And I’d like to now recognize another edged God’s providence upon that where we’re headed as a Nation. We ac- great leader on faith issues across the knowledge that our Nation was found- group that met to write our Constitu- country from the State of Arkansas, tion, said, himself, as he looked at ed on the right to choose to believe or Congressman JOHN BOOZMAN. not believe, but also our founding fa- Washington, before they went out and Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise thers gave us choices in exactly how to announced in what is today known as tonight to support American Religious express our faith. Independence Hall in Philadelphia, he History Week. This great country was said, ‘‘I have lived, sir, a long time, and I believe that acknowledging Amer- founded on religious principles, and the ica’s rich spiritual and religious his- the longer I live, the more convincing ideal of our founders can be seen in the tory is important and it is a great step proof I see of this truth, that God gov- halls of this very building, the symbol towards accomplishing what would be erns in the affairs of men. And if a of American democracy, the Capitol. sparrow cannot fall to the ground with- Statuary Hall, the former meeting the future of this country, America’s out His notice, is it likely that an em- place of the House of Representatives, religious heritage. It troubles me that we are beginning pire shall rise without his aid?’’ now home to statues donated by indi- to see shifts in this country. We’re see- ‘‘We have been assured,’’ said Frank- vidual States, was the site of church lin, ‘‘in the sacred writings that except services for over 50 years, and the ing shifts, not in ideology, not in phi- the Lord build the house, they labor in Speaker’s podium was used as the losophy, but over whether we can even vain that build it. I firmly believe preacher’s pulpit during that time. declare our faith publicly. In this coun- this,’’ said Franklin, ‘‘and I also be- Several of the statues in that great try we’re beginning to hear people say lieve that without His concurring aid, hall are of religious figures important that if you declare faith publicly, we shall succeed in this political build- to the growth of this great nation. you’re infringing on their rights. I sim- ing no better than the builders of John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg of ply do not agree or believe in that. Babel.’’ Pennsylvania was persuaded by his fa- If you want to acknowledge your What a challenge to us today. What a ther to study the ministry. He was or- faith, there are people who say that it challenge that that old man, at that dained in the Church of England. From should be behind closed doors. This is time, Franklin, made to all of those there God called him into the life of sad. Often this mind-set is originating young men who were ready to go out politics; serving in the House of Bur- right here in Washington. This mind- and announce what they’d done politi- gesses and becoming a commander in set is originating in this institution, cally for a new country. But he himself the Continental Army during the revo- but it’s also originating even in insti- said ‘‘we can only secure these bless- lution. Then he was elected to the first tutions where the members are not ings of liberty for ourselves and pos- Congress and also served as a senator. elected, and I think those are critical terity when we take time too first pray Like so many of the other religious things for us to look at as we consider and rely upon the hand of Almighty figures in these halls, these men have where this Nation is headed. God.’’ And that those 39 men did. Be- made significant contributions. Men This Nation has a motto ‘‘In God We fore they walked out of what is today like Roger Williams, a priest in the Trust.’’ It was approved by Congress, known as Independence Hall to an- Church of England, founded the colony and yet it’s being circumvented some- nounce that we had a constitution for of Rhode Island and wrote the declara- times by unelected officials. ‘‘In God this new country, they spent time in tion of the principle of religious lib- We Trust’’ is printed on coins, on our prayer. erty. currency. It is engraved on our build- You know, that story has been sani- Thomas Starr King, a Unitarian min- ings. It appears over the entrance to tized out of our history books today, ister, was a fiery orator who spoke fa- the Senate Chambers, and you can see but those are Franklin’s quotes. And I vorably of the Union in California in the phrase engraved in this Chamber think it’s a challenge to all of us to the 1860s, and is credited with saving on the wall above the Speaker’s dais. know that even this man knew scrip- California from becoming a separate This phrase is woven into the fabric of ture and knew that the hand of Al- republic. our Nation, but we’re beginning to see mighty God had to be upon our country Father Damien’s statue is one of the an unraveling of the phrase, an unrav- for us to succeed. most recognizable. He was an ordained eling of this tradition of declaring that

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5472 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 we do trust in God. This is a string of America in her great harbors, her gious foundation of this country and that should not be cut. fertile fields and boundless forests, in designates the first week in May as In 2006, the U.S. Mint announced her rich mines and vast world com- American Religious Heritage Week. plans to move the inscription ‘‘In God merce, in her universal public school b 2100 We Trust’’ from the face of the Presi- system and institutions of learning. I dential Dollar coin pieces to the thin sought for it in her democratic Con- From the devout convictions of the edge around the dollar coin. gress and in her matchless constitu- Continental Army to the current stead- In February of 2006 the Treasury an- tion. fast faith of our men and women fight- nounced that in an accidental omission ‘‘But not until I went into the ing the war on terrorism, faith and rean unknown number of Presidential churches of America and heard her pul- ligion have played a significant role in coins had made it past inspectors and pits flame with righteousness did I un- America’s history, especially in times were sent into circulation without the derstand the secret of her genius and of conflict. Military chaplains have a long his- words ‘‘In God We Trust’’ at all. Some power. America is great because Amer- tory in serving the religious needs of estimates are as many as 50,000 of these ica is good. And if America ever ceases the Armed Forces. There’s a list of coins are in circulation. to be good, America will cease to be chaplains in the U.S. military that I understand that mistakes happen, great.’’ goes back to George Washington, who but sending 50,000 coins without the In 1863 Abraham Lincoln declared a first sought to minister for his Virginia basic motto which this institution de- National Day of Humiliation, and I regiment in 1756. Washington placed clared should be on our currency is a really love his words. He was not sup- the success and survival of his Conti- major mistake. I ask for the U.S. Mint posed to be a really religious man, but nental Army on the power of faith and to give a full report and accounting of listen to what he said. ‘‘We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties prayer. the situation. His most famous acclamation was his Our history tells us the importance of heaven. We have been preserved these many years in peace and pros- prayer at Valley Forge. He said, ‘‘Bless of God and faith in the birth of our Na- O Lord the whole race of mankind, and tion. The problems with the phrase, perity where we have grown in numbers and wealth and power as no other let the world be filled with the knowl- ‘‘In God We Trust’’ being omitted from edge of Thee and Thy son Jesus. Of all our coin is just one indicator of how Nation has ever grown. ‘‘But we have forgotten God. We have dispositions and habits which lead to badly we’re drifting off course. It is fit- political prosperity, religion and moting that we honor the spiritual his- forgotten the gracious Hand which preserved us in peace and multiplied and rality are indispensable supports. In tory with a week dedicated to remem- vain would that man claim the tribute bering our founding and ensuring that enriched us, and we have vainly imag- ined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, of patriotism, who should labor to sub- the lasting connection which so many vert these great pillars of human hap- Americans share in and believe in is a that all these blesses were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our piness, these firmest props of the du- part of our national fabric. ties of men and citizens. I support H. Res. 888, and agree that own. ‘‘Intoxicated with unbroken success, ‘‘To the distinguished character of a we should, indeed, establish a week we have become too self-sufficient to Patriot, it should be our highest glory which declares American religious his- feel the necessity of redeeming and to add the more distinguished char- tory. And I thank Mr. FORBES for yield- preserving grace, too proud to pray to acter of a Christian.’’ ing time. the God that the God that made us! It Today, military chaplains are found Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, we thank behooves us then to humble ourselves in every part of the military from the gentleman from New Mexico. And before the offended Power, to confess army medical centers, veterans’ clin- now another great leader in the Con- our national sins, and to pray for clem- ics, official ceremonies, as well as com- gress of the United States from the ency and forgiveness.’’ bat zones. Now more than ever our sol- State of Maryland, Mr. ROSCOE BART- Abraham Lincoln understood that diers, veterans, and their families need LETT. this was an experiment. In his Gettys- spiritual leadership and guidance; yet Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland. Thank burg address he said ‘‘Four score and in some places, chaplains and their re- you very much, Randy, for organizing seven years ago, our forefathers ligious convictions are coming under this special order this evening. brought forth on this continent a new fire. In several instances across the Most of the founders of our country Nation, conceived in liberty and dedi- country, military chaplains have been were deeply religious. You wouldn’t cated to the proposition that all men marginalized for their reference to God know that by reading our textbooks. are created equal.’’ and the Bible in religious ceremony. They have been bled dry of any mean- We’re now engaged in a great civil Tonight, as we honor the religious ingful reference to how religious our war testing where that Nation or any foundation of America and commend founders were. Nation so conceived and so dedicated the role of military chaplains, I hope One of those founders was Patrick can long endure. Mr. Lincoln, this has that we can continue in the steps of Henry. And his words, some of his been a very successful experiment. But our Founding Fathers by upholding the words may be in our textbook, ‘‘Give I think the words of Alexis de importance of faith, prayer, and reli- me liberty or give me death.’’ But I Tocqueville are true, that America will gion. will bet you the textbook will not in- continue to be great so long as Amer- Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, and now clude the context of this. ica continues to be good. from Minnesota, another leader on This was said on March 23, 1775, at And Mr. FORBES, it will be very dif- many of these issues, Congresswoman St. John’s Church in Richmond, Vir- ficult for America to continue to be MICHELE BACHMANN. ginia; and this is what he said. ‘‘An ap- good if we forget how much we depend Mrs. BACHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I peal to arms and the God of hosts is all on God. Thank you for yielding to me, thank the gentleman from Virginia. that is left us. But we shall not fight sir. Our President John Quincy Adams our battle alone. There is a just God Mr. FORBES. Thank you, Mr. BART- said, ‘‘The virtue which had been in- that presides over the destinies of na- LETT, for those great words. fused into the Constitution of the tions. The battle, sir, is not to the And now another leader on so many United States . . . was no other than strong alone. Is life so dear or peace so of these issues from the State of North . . . those abstract principles which sweet as to be purchased at the price of Carolina, Congressman ROBIN HAYES. had been first proclaimed in the Dec- chains and slavery? Forbid it Almighty Mr. HAYES. Thank you Mr. Speaker, laration of Independence—namely, the God. I know not what course others and I want to thank my dear friend and self-evident truths of the natural and may take but, as for me, give me lib- colleague, RANDY FORBES, and all the unalienable rights of man . . . This was erty, or give me death.’’ other Members who are gathered here the platform upon which the Constitu- Alexis de Tocqueville, the young tonight in support of House Resolution tion of the United States had been Frenchman, toured this country in 888. erected.’’ 1831, and this is what he said. ‘‘I sought I rise today to speak in support of Abraham Lincoln similarly made ref- for the key to the greatness and genius this resolution that honors the reli- erence to the importance of these

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5473 foundational principles when he said, mental statement of faith—as stated in our lieved that faith played a vital role in ‘‘I have never had a thought politically foundational Document, the Declaration of the government of our Nation. While which did not spring from the senti- Independence. President, Jefferson said, ‘‘No Nation ments embodied in the Declaration of This document is a Declaration that we are has ever existed or been governed with- Independence.’’ first and foremost a religious country. It clari- out religion. Nor can be.’’ The Declaration contains 12 such sen- fies that our breaking of the bond with Great During his public life, Jefferson timents which follow: Britain was justified by the spiritual principle of urged local government officials to The Pillar number 1 is National Sov- Natural Law—the universal and God-given un- make land available specifically for ereignty. derstanding of morality and human rights that Christian purposes, chose to attend The Declaration of Independence applies to all people and all nations throughout church each Sunday at the Capitol, and could just as well be called the ‘‘Dec- the world. even provided the service with paid laration of National Sovereignty.’’ This American Creed stated in the Declara- government musicians to assist in the Pillar number 2: Natural law. Nat- tion clarifies that all people are entitled to be worship. Jefferson proposed that the ural law is the universal moral code free, to have their lives protected and to own Great Seal of the United States depict that governs all people. property. Why? Because our Creator—God a story in the Bible and include the Pillar number 3: Self-evident Truth. made us that way. word ‘‘God’’ in its motto. We hold these truths to be self-evident, Our forefathers understood that God made Enclosed are Presidential documents evidence for all to see. us to be largely like him. That is, they under- with the phrase, ‘‘In the year of our Pillar number 4: Equality. We hold stood that just as God is free, he made us Lord Christ, by the President, Thomas these truths to be self-evident that all with a right to be free. Just as God lives, he Jefferson.’’ men are created equal. made us with a right to live; and just as God Mr. Speaker, I’m thankful to be able Pillar number 5: Inalienable Rights. owns everything, he made us with a right to to address this House on this subject Inalienable rights are not granted by own some things. and for the opportunity to cosponsor government. They are granted to us by The founders understood that religion is the this legislation designating an Amer- God. The role of government, then, is foundation of a just society. Here it is in their ican Religious History Week. By their to protect our God-given rights. own words. actions, our Founding Fathers showed Pillar number 6: The Inalienable ‘‘All our basic rights and freedoms are rec- us that faith and government can and Right to Life. ognized by the American Creed as belonging should exist together. It’s important Pillar number 7: The Inalienable to us and inherent in us because of religious for those here and now and future gen- Right to Liberty. principles. If we fail to recognize our nation’s erations, Mr. Speaker, to remember the Pillar number 8: The Inalienable religious foundation, these same rights and religious heritage of our Nation. I’m Right to Private Property. freedoms become increasingly vulnerable.’’ convinced that it’s only by God’s grace Pillar number 9: The primary purpose The Declaration ends by appealing to ‘‘Di- that our Nation has survived the many of government is to protect the inalien- vine Providence’’. That is, our Declaration trials and tests we’ve experienced. And able rights. That to secure these says that the success of this new republic de- I will continue to turn to God to seek rights, governments are instituted pends on God looking favorably upon it and his guidance and make decisions affect- among men. protecting it. ing our country, and I believe by re- Pillar number 10: Popular Sov- Today, we recommit ourselves and our maining faithful, our Nation will con- ereignty. To secure these rights, gov- country to these all-important religious tinue to thrive as a beacon of hope in ernments derived their just powers foundational principles. Today, we recommit the future. from the consent of the governed. ourselves to being free. I pray, Mr. Speaker, that God will Pillar number 7: Federalism and Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, now I continue to bless America. State rights. The Declaration affirms would like to recognize another good Mr. FORBES. Thank you for those not only the sovereignty of the Federal friend from the State of South Carolina words of wisdom. United States, but also the sovereignty (GRESHAM BARRETT). Mr. Speaker, I would like to recog- of the separate states. Mr. BARRETT of South Carolina. nize the gentleman from Michigan And finally, Pillar number 12: Divine Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for (THADDEUS MCCOTTER). Providence. The Declaration of Inde- yielding. Mr. MCCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I pendence ends with this sentence: Mr. Speaker, President John Adams thank the gentleman from Virginia and And for the support of this Declara- once said, ‘‘The highest story of the the gentleman from North Carolina for tion, with a firm reliance on the Pro- American Revolution is this. It con- holding this. tection of Divine Providence, we mutu- nected in one indissoluble bond the Phillip Bobbitt, the author of the ally pledge to each other our Lives, our principles of civil government with the ‘‘Shield of Achilles,’’ once wrote that if Fortunes, and our sacred Honor. principles of Christianity.’’ you don’t know where you have been, The Colonists stated their conviction So often we hear about the idea of you won’t know where you’re going, that there is a God in the Heavens who separation of church and State. Mr. and any road will take you there. ultimately governs in the affairs of Speaker, I believe in the idea of separa- Throughout the history of the 20th men. There is no Natural law without a tion of not from church, a distinction century, we have seen where people Law giver. The unalienable rights they worth noting. who deny the role of religion within said were God-given. Equality, they Our Founding Fathers never believed their government—the hells to which said, was the state in which we were that faith should be taken out of our they have descended, hells of which created by God. lives. However, they did believe that Dostoevsky warned a long time ago May God bless to this present genera- government should not interfere with that all manners of things are possible tion the memory of the Declaration of an individual’s faith. Unfortunately, in in the absence of God. Independence and the 12 principles con- the society which we live in today, this It has been said tonight, and rightly tained therein. distinction has been ignored. It has so, that the United States, from its Mr. Speaker, it is vital that we recognize the been forced out of everyday lives, and founding, has understood a self-evident rich spiritual and religious history of our Na- it saddens me, Mr. Speaker truth that our liberty comes not from tion’s founding and subsequent history, and I The faith of the American people re- the pen of a government bureaucrat rise today to express support for the designa- mains at the center of our great Na- but is written on our hearts by al- tion of the first week in May as ‘‘American Re- tion. Our Founding Fathers were faith- mighty God. It is this self-evident ligious History Week’’ to raise the appreciation ful men who believed every individual truth that allows us to understand that of and to promote education on America’s his- had the right to express their religious it is our liberty which has curated the tory of religious faith. beliefs without fear of persecution or subservient government which exists In doing so, we recommit ourselves to our discrimination. to protect our God-given rights. nation’s common religious faith, also called It was Thomas Jefferson, Mr. Speak- I think it is also important that we ‘‘the American Creed.’’ We reconnect our peo- er, who first uttered the term ‘‘separa- understand that history is not merely ple with our most basic principles—our funda- tion of church and state,’’ indeed be- something that happened 200 years ago,

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If some in America continue a country founded upon the principle of being of infinite power, he was able un- to deny the importance of our spiritual equality for all because all human questionably to prescribe whatever heritage, our leaders and our citizens beings were endowed by the creator laws he placed to his creature, man, will no longer have this foundation to with the gift of liberty. It was the Rev- whoever unfit or severe. But as he is stand on as many have stood on for erend Dr. Martin Luther King, Junior, also a being of infinite wisdom, he has centuries. who appealed to the conscience of this laid down only such laws as were I close with the words of former country to allow us to live together founded in those relations of justice. President Ronald Reagan: ‘‘The lesson and to one day achieve the dream of These are the quotes of Blackstone. is clear that in the winning if freedom equality, regardless of race. It was the thoughts of Blackstone, in and in the living of life, the first step In pursuit of this noble goal, in pur- fact many of the words that were in- is prayer.’’ suit of this Godly goal, Dr. King was corporated directly into the Declara- Mr. FORBES. Thank you, MARILYN, slain. And in a eulogy performed for tion of Independence, and that great for those words, and now I’d like to him in Indianapolis in the wake of this document set forth not only our sever- yield to the gentleman from Virginia tragedy, it was Senator Robert F. Ken- ance from Great Britain, but also a (Mr. WITTMAN). nedy who said, And even in our sleep, statement as to the source of laws in Mr. WITTMAN of Virginia. I thank pain which cannot forget, falls drop by this country that God is the source of the gentleman from Virginia for yield- drop upon the heart until then our own liberty, that man is given the power to ing. despair, against our will, comes wis- form governments for the purpose of Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor dom through the awful grace of God. protecting those rights that God gives. the significant contributions of Thom- In that moment of anguish for our as Jefferson to the religious heritage of b 2115 Nation, which would be repeated short- this great Nation. ly thereafter for Senator KENNEDY, we Jefferson took that knowledge, sat Thomas Jefferson stated in the Vir- saw that religion and government in down, inscribed that into the Declara- ginia Statute for Religious Freedom in the United States were not exclusive tion, and that’s what forms the basis of 1779 that ‘‘No man shall be compelled but complimentary. And we saw that the law of America. It’s the law of na- to frequent or support any religious what binds us together as the greatest ture and of nature’s God. worship, place, or ministry whatsoever, Nation on the face of the earth stems Mr. FORBES. I’d now like to recog- nor shall be enforced, restrained, mo- not from government but from the nize from the State of Colorado, Ms. lested, or burthened in his body or yearnings and the common bounds of MARILYN MUSGRAVE. goods, nor shall otherwise suffer, on ac- our own heart. Ms. MUSGRAVE. Thank you, Mr. count of his religious opinions or be- This recognition, this understanding FORBES, for your leadership on this lief; but that all men shall be free to of where we’ve been, where we are, and issue. profess, and by argument to maintain, where together we must go, is what As we ponder the importance of our their opinions in matters of religion, will allow America to remain a com- spiritual heritage tonight, we need to and that the same shall in no wise di- munity of destiny, inspired and guided remember that it’s really central to minish, enlarge, or affect their civil ca- by the virtuous genius of her free peo- the founding of America. We are re- pacities.’’ ple and eternally blessed by the minded of this when we cite the Pledge Our Founding Fathers conquered tre- unfathomable grace of God. of Allegiance at public events and in mendous obstacles to establish our es- Mr. FORBES. Thank you, Congress- our children’s classrooms. We all know teemed United States Constitution and man MCCOTTER. that our Nation’s motto is, ‘‘In God We the Bill of Rights. The adoption of Mr. Speaker, now I would like to Trust,’’ and that is printed on our cur- these documents as laws of the land yield to the gentleman from Illinois rency, and it’s really imprinted right brought forth the certainty that we (Mr. MANZULLO). here in the Capitol Building itself. would live in a Nation where our nat- Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, when Christianity was not only important ural rights as citizens are defended Jefferson was given the duty and obli- in American life during the periods of with all our might. gation of drafting the Declaration of discovery, exploration, colonization, Thomas Jefferson, the second Presi- Independence, he could have turned to and growth, but it has also been incor- dent of the United States, and one of the Revolutionaries of lower Europe, porated and acknowledged in all three our Nation’s Founding Fathers, under- the followers of Russo, which led to the branches of our American government stood the need for protecting our nat- Jacobites and the reign of terror who since its inception. ural rights. All of these rights were im- believe that man is the center of the Our Founding Fathers firmly be- portant to him, but none meant more universe and man is the ultimate judge lieved that America could not be built than the freedom of religion. of what is truth. or governed without acknowledging The Virginia Statute for Religious But instead, Jefferson turned to the that ‘‘God rules in the affairs of men.’’ Freedom was written in 1779 by Thom- writings of Blackstone and Locke. Ms. John Quincy Adams once said, ‘‘The as Jefferson and James Madison. The Blackstone, the great jurist of Eng- Declaration of Independence laid the statute declares that compulsory reli- land, examined the laws of England and cornerstone of human government gion is wrong, that no religion should laid them side by side with the biblical upon the first precepts of Christi- be enforced on an individual, and that statements to come up with something anity.’’ It is in this religious tradition the freedom of religion is a natural called the Doctrine of Natural Law. that our Nation has grown over the right. As a Virginian, I am indebted to And Blackstone said, When the su- course of 300 years. the Commonwealth and the General preme being formed the universe and Our foundation of prayer has been a Assembly for the adoption in 1786 of created matter out of nothing, he im- rock when the tides of freedom and the Virginia Statute for Religious pressed certain principles upon that peace were changing. America has not Freedom. The statute’s doctrine and matter from which it could never de- been immune to the devastation of principles have inspired individuals be- part, without which it would cease to war, and in the midst of intense trials yond the Commonwealth and across be. and hardship, our leaders have always the Nation. This will of a Maker is called the turned to God and prayer. Thomas Jefferson requested that Law of Nature for as God, when he cre- During World War II, President three of his greatest accomplishments ated matter and did it with a principle Franklin D. Roosevelt not only led the be listed on his epitaph. Freedom of re- of mobility, established certain rules Nation in a 6-minute prayer during D ligion was so important to him that for the perpetual direction of that mo- Day on June 6, 1944, but he also de- the Virginia Statute for Religious

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The said, ‘‘Yes, sir.’’ He said, ‘‘Well, my cause I’m going to talk about an event statute ultimately facilitated the path name’s Ron from Kansas.’’ He said, ‘‘I in my hometown this week which to complete religious freedom in the saw by your Web site that you pro- brought home to me how far we have United States and was eventually in- claim yourself to be a Christian. I want strayed from our complete under- cluded in the first amendment to our to invite you to a gathering of men and standing of the Constitution of the Constitution. women that get together and study the United States. Jefferson believed and argued that Bible and pray together for this coun- Let me quote the first amendment, the concept of enforced religion is entry, and we’re meeting tomorrow and this amendment is first because tirely erroneous, and he fought to up- morning. Would you join us?’’ the 13 colonies decided this was the hold any measure that would con- Recognizing who Jim Ryun was, the most important amendment. ‘‘Congress tradict his belief in religious freedom. famous miler from Kansas, I was flat- shall make no law respecting an estab- Throughout the years since Jefferson, tered by the invitation, and I actually lishment of religion, or prohibiting the our Nation has undergone tremendous got there an hour early for the event free exercise thereof; or abridging the internal and external turmoil, and it and sat outside in the halls before the freedom of speech, or of the press,’’ et has gone through some significant rest of them showed up. But I can tell cetera. transition. Yet, the right of religious you that that has been a major part of The event I’m going to talk about freedom has stood tried and true. my life for the 6 years I’ve been in Con- that happened in my hometown re- I am privileged to join my colleagues gress because of the fellowship of those ceived extensive coverage. A grad- from Virginia, Representative FORBES, men and women who gathered that day uating student at a local public high and 83 other cosponsors in signing my in various numbers. Bipartisan is part school was asked to give a speech. This name on House Resolution 888, legisla- of the deal, and we will sit and talk, is a model student. He had done well, tion which will continue to preserve visit, pray and discuss the Bible, and it he was respected, and he was asked to and affirm our natural rights that were revitalizes my life every day and every talk about his life experiences. And in set forth by our Nation’s Founding Fa- week. that talk, which he had to submit for thers. And I have a friend back home who is approval ahead of time, he discussed I am honored to live in such a Nation in the radio business, and I call him his life experience, including his reli- where I can openly profess my faith in from time to time. He always signs off gious life. That was judged improper, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and with me by saying, ‘‘Be sure and do the and he was removed from that par- Lord’s work in the devil’s city.’’ It’s a to share with others Christ’s word, as ticular duty that day. well as the impact His words have on joke and we laugh about it, but the re- Now, I fail to understand how anyone ality is that there are people who think my life. reading the first amendment of the of that, of this city as the devil’s city, Jefferson once stated, ‘‘From the dis- Constitution would think that the Su- and I’m here to tell him that the Lord sensions among Sects themselves arise preme Court has ruled that a student is alive and well. The Lord Jesus Christ necessarily a right of choosing and ne- discussing his life experiences could reigns in the capital city of the United cessity of deliberating to which we will not mention his religious life. And yet conform. But if we choose for our- States of America. They need to hear that that is part of that is how far we have come in this selves, we must allow others to choose the present history of the United Nation in our misunderstanding of our also, and so reciprocally, this estab- States, and there are men and women origins and what it should be. lishes religious liberty.’’ who gather almost every day as people I come from a religious community. I am truly grateful to Thomas Jeffer- of faith and pray for this great Nation. In fact, our community is sometimes son, a Virginian, a true patriot, a The little group that we’re a part of, called the ‘‘City of Churches,’’ Grand Founding Father, and above all else, a we formed up the National Prayer Cau- Rapids, Michigan. leader whose vision has stood the test cus. That National Prayer Caucus is b 2130 of time and a man who stood so reso- catching on around the country, and lutely for religious freedom in our Na- Last week, we dedicated a Hindu people are gathering and praying for temple; a few years ago, a Buddhist tion. the United States of America. I would temple. And we also have a Muslim Mr. FORBES. Thank you, Rob, and hope that every Member of this Con- mosque, actually, fairly close to my now, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to recognize gress and every American citizen would home. another great leader in the House of take to their knees and pray for the fu- We meet the test of the first amend- Representatives from the State of ture of our country and for the salva- ment. We do not prohibit the free exer- Texas, Congressman JOHN CARTER. tion of America. Mr. CARTER. I thank my good friend That is what we need. That is what cise of religion and the founding of var- from Virginia (Mr. FORBES) for yielding saves our Nation and that’s what’s ious religious establishments. But I to me. here. The history is not only the his- have to say, with this particular high I’ve been very, very impressed with tory of the past, which is glorious; it is school, I would not be able to give a the folks that have gathered here the history of the present, and the commencement speech there because I today to tell us about the religious his- present is full of grace and peace and would not be able to give a commence- tory of the United States of America. love of Jesus Christ in this building ment speech without speaking about It is so important that Americans and and around this town, and I want ev- my life experiences and what I thought Members of this House remember the erybody to know it. It’s part of our Na- the students were going to face, and history of this country and how impor- tion today, just as it was at its found- what they would need to face their life tant the Christian religion has been to ing and throughout its history. experiences. the history of the United States of So it’s wonderful that I may stand I find it fascinating in the Capitol, America, and what an important part and rise in support this week where we we start with prayer every day, we of the very basis of our society it is. acknowledge the history, the religious have a chaplain, we have a Prayer But I think it’s important, too, for history of our Nation. Breakfast once a week, we have Bible the people of this House and for the Mr. FORBES. Thank you, John, and studies in the Capitol. No one raises a men and women back home to know now, Mr. Speaker, I’d like to recognize feather against this and says this is that this religious history continues in someone who has led us in so many of wrong, this is unconstitutional. And if the House of Representatives of the these issues for so many years from the it’s permissible in the Capitol of the United States of America. State of Michigan, Congressman VERN United States, why is it not permis- The first day I walked through the EHLERS. sible across the Nation? It should be. door of this beloved building, the Cap- Mr. EHLERS. I thank the gentleman Everyone should be free to discuss itol of the United States, the first time from Virginia for yielding, and I espe- their beliefs and their religion and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5476 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 their faith in God. That’s what the first Now I’d like to recognize Mr. DAVID become arrogant and often educated amendment is all about. DAVIS from Tennessee. beyond our own common sense to the And let’s not get hung up about Su- Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. extent that we have forgotten some- preme Court decisions, ACLU lawsuits, Thank you, Mr. FORBES. I appreciate times that self-evident truth. But Mr. et cetera. Let’s recognize the clear lan- you giving me the opportunity to be Speaker, how fortunate we are that guage of the first amendment and let’s with you. those who went before us did not forget let our citizens have the freedom that I rise tonight in support of H.R. 888. that foundational truth and they held the founders of this Nation intended in Psalm 33:12 says, ‘‘Blessed is the na- it in their hearts. the area of religious belief and the gov- tion whose God is the Lord.’’ It doesn’t ernment’s role therein. say, ‘‘Blessed is the nation whose God President George Washington, on the Mr. FORBES. Thank you, VERNON. was the Lord,’’ and there’s a difference. very same day that Congress finished Mr. Speaker, now I would like to rec- Our Founding Fathers understood the drafting the first amendment, declared, ognize, from the State of Colorado, Mr. difference. As has been stated before, ‘‘It is the duty of all nations to ac- DOUG LAMBORN. you can see it all through these hal- knowledge the providence of Almighty Mr. LAMBORN. Mr. Speaker, I rise lowed Chambers. Above the Speaker’s God, to Obey His will, to be grateful for today with my colleagues in recogni- dais you will see the words, ‘‘In God we His benefits, and to humbly implore tion of American Religious History trust.’’ Unfortunately, on TV at times His protection and favor.’’ William Week, and I thank Mr. FORBES for his you don’t see the words ‘‘In God We Penn, one of our great champions of leadership. Trust,’’ they cut just a little bit below liberty and founder of what would be- There are traces of America’s reli- that. You will see Moses in full array come Pennsylvania said, ‘‘Those people gious history all across this Nation. in the back of the Chamber. who will not be governed by God will And many things, even here in this This building, the Capitol of the be ruled by tyrants.’’ And President very room, convince me that our Na- United States, was actually used for Andrew Jackson said, ‘‘The Bible is the tion’s founders were intent on pre- church services in its early history. bedrock on which our Republic rests.’’ serving the religious beliefs and prin- Out in the Rotunda, you will see many ciples upon which our liberty depends. beautiful paintings. The first one you Mr. Speaker, today the secular left Our Nation’s motto, ‘‘In God we come to in the Rotunda you will actu- often seeks to destroy any vestige of trust,’’ is enshrined above the Speak- ally see Pocahontas, that you will re- this Nation’s religious heritage in his- er’s chair right there. And across the member from Thanksgiving. Well, Po- tory. They seek not to prevent the es- Chamber is a facade of Moses, who cahontas, in the painting, is actually tablishment of religion, but rather, to gazes on the floor where we today write depicted right after she changed her relentlessly destroy the free exercise the law of the land. On the ceiling of name to Rebecca when she became a thereof. Indeed, they are determined to this Chamber our State seals are found, Christian and was baptized. Our Found- rewrite America’s history, devoid of one of which bears the motto, ‘‘Nil ing Fathers understood our Christian any mention or trace of the very ideal Sine Numine,’’ which was adopted by Nation and our Christian heritage. that gave birth to this Nation in the my great State of Colorado. In English, And President James Buchanan un- first place. If left unchecked, they will these words mean ‘‘nothing without derstood this completely when he not stop until they have pulled down providence,’’ a phrase that undoubtedly issued a proclamation in 1860 entitled the very last Christian cross or Star of influenced the men and women who la- ‘‘Humiliation, Fasting and Prayer.’’ David out in Arlington National Ceme- bored for the great Republic we have And he’s quoted, ‘‘In this, the hour of tery. But, Mr. Speaker, they will not always known. our calamity and peril, to whom shall succeed. Because, you see, there is We are greatly indebted to the faith we resort for relief but to the God of something in the heart of every human of our founders, which changed history. our Fathers? His omnipotent arm only being that knows that beyond this In fact, in 1818, our second President of can save us from the awful effects of world, beyond the stars, and beyond the United States, John Adams, shared our own crimes and follies, of our own life itself is an Almighty God that this reflection on the true American ingratitude and guilt towards our holds each one of us in His hands. Our Revolution. He said, ‘‘The Revolution Heavenly Father.’’ It certainly sounds Founding Fathers knew that truth, Mr. was effected before the war com- to me like President James Buchanan Speaker. They knew that America her- menced. The Revolution was in the understood ‘‘Blessed is the nation self was proof that indeed there is an minds and hearts of the people, a whose God is the Lord.’’ angel that still rides in the whirlwind change in their religious sentiments of We understand today that America and directs this storm. I pray for the their duties and obligations. This rad- isn’t great because we have a large gov- sake of America and all that made her ical change in the principles, opinions, ernment. We’re great because down great tonight that this generation does sentiments and affections of the people through history, if we had a problem, not forget this great, immutable, self- was the real American Revolution.’’ we turned to God first and then we evident truth that for more than two Our Judeo-Christian heritage, unlike turned to our neighbors, not to a big centuries has been the bedrock founda- any other in the history of the world, is government. And if we want to con- tion of the greatest Republic in the his- deeply rooted in the philosophy that tinue to be that great Nation, we need tory of mankind. all men were created in the image of to look to II Chronicles 7:14, which God, endowed with natural rights given says, ‘‘If my people, who are called by Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, thank to them by God alone rather than by My name, shall humble themselves and you for our time. I know that our time the State. This is the bedrock principle pray and seek my face and turn from is expired. We have a few other gentle- which we must never forget. If we for- their wicked ways, then I will hear men that I hope will be recognized get this, like many societies before us, from heaven and will forgive their sin later by the House. But, Mr. Speaker, we run the dangerous risk of falling and heal their land.’’ thank you for your patience. prey to tyranny. We need healing in our land. Early Americans understood that if Mr. FORBES. Thank you. Now I GENERAL LEAVE government was the source of freedom would like to recognize from Arizona, Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I ask rather than God, then government can Mr. TRENT FRANKS. unanimous consent that all Members also take it way. We declare ourselves Mr. FRANKS of Arizona. I thank Mr. may have 5 legislative days in which to ‘‘one Nation under God’’ with Him as FORBES, and I thank the Speaker. revise and extend their remarks and in- the source of our rights and our free- Mr. Speaker, if, indeed, our Founding clude extraneous material on the sub- dom, and that makes us unique among Fathers were right, that all men are ject of my Special Order. the nations. It is for these reasons we created, then it follows that all men of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there recognize our religious heritage be- reason much surely sense their duty to cause it is still relevant to our freedom reverently acknowledge their Creator. objection to the request of the gen- today. In the modern world of abundance in tleman from Virginia? Mr. FORBES. Thank you, DOUG. which we live, I am afraid that we have There was no objection.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5477 AMERICAN RELIGIOUS HISTORY used to be held right in our Nation’s have to be made in order to deal with WEEK Capitol and what a privilege and honor the issues that face this country? The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a that must have been to come over to It is not brand new. Two hundred previous order of the House, the gen- the Nation’s Capitol and not only to twenty-one years ago, Benjamin Franklin observed the same partisan- tleman from Texas (Mr. NEUGEBAUER) see the center of freedom and democ- is recognized for 5 minutes. racy known around the world, but to ship, the same ugly tone going back Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Mr. Speaker, worship your Lord and Savior. and forth and came upon a solution just a little over 5 years ago, on June And so, Father, tonight—Mr. Speak- that he communicated to President 5, 2003, I stepped on the floor of this er, tonight—and really I guess that Washington in a letter. And I would House to take the oath of office to be we’re talking to our Heavenly Father like to read some of that letter into only the fourth Member of Congress tonight, and we’re talking to you, too, the RECORD tonight, because that solu- from the 19th Congressional District, Mr. Speaker—we’ve been talking about tion I think would stand us in good the 236th Texan, to ever serve in the an important part of America, an im- stead as well. United States Congress. portant part of the foundation and the Reading from Benjamin Franklin’s But what I really want to talk about, values of these men that started this letter to George Washington: Mr. Speaker, is the hour before I great Nation, the foundation of the ‘‘In this situation of this Assembly, groping as it were in the dark to find stepped on the floor of this House and men and women that have kept this political truth, and scarce able to dis- took that oath. I met in the Speaker’s great freedom and democracy alive tinguish it when presented to us, how office. And while we were standing over these years and how important is it happened, Sir, that we have not around waiting for the floor to open, that is, and what a shame it is going to hitherto once thought of humbly ap- the House to open up its daily prayer be if we don’t protect that for future plying to the Father of lights to illu- and Pledge, one of the Speaker’s staff generations. Unfortunately, we’ve seen members came over to my wife and I minate our understandings. some Federal judges try to take away ‘‘And have we now forgotten that and said, ‘‘Congressman, would you what these gentlemen pledged their powerful Friend? Or do we imagine like a few minutes alone, some quiet lives to do. I hope we never let that that we no longer need His assistance? time before you’re sworn in? We said, happen. I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the well, that would be great. I brought my And so just 2 weeks ago I reflected longer I live, the more convincing own personal Bible with me. And so back on that very special day that proofs I see of this truth, that God gov- that lady led me around to a room that right here in our Capitol there was an erns in the affairs of men. And if a I don’t know that a lot of people know opportunity to get down on our knees sparrow cannot fall to the ground with- that is in this Capitol, and that’s our and pray. But what’s more important is out His notice, is it probable that an chapel, that’s just around from the that weekly this Congressional Prayer empire can rise without His aid? We Speaker’s lobby. And I didn’t know ex- Caucus, these men and women from have been assured, Sir, the sacred actly where she was taking us, but she both sides of the aisle, believe in Amer- writings, that ‘except the Lord build opened the door, and to my wife’s sur- ica and believe in the founding prin- the House they labor in vain that build prise, and myself, we saw that we were ciples. it.’ in a chapel in our Nation’s Capitol. She More importantly they understand ‘‘I firmly believe this, and I also be- closed that door behind us, and we that Who is the ultimate leader of this lieve without His concurring aid we walked over and knelt at the front of universe. shall succeed in this partial building no that chapel. And we just sat down as a And so Mr. Speaker, I thank you for better than the builders of Babel. We couple and we began to pray because this time to talk tonight about a very shall be divided by our little partial we realized what an awesome responsi- important part of America, and that is local interests; our projects will be bility that the people in the 19th Con- the ability to praise our Lord and Sav- confounded, and we ourselves shall be- gressional District of Texas had given ior. come a reproach and bye word down to us. And so we knelt there, and we f future ages. And what is worse, man- began to pray. And we just said, Lord, kind may hereafter from this unfortu- we are about to embark on a journey b 2145 nate instance, despair of establishing that you have brought us here. We ask BENJAMIN FRANKLIN REQUESTS Governments by human wisdom and for Your guidance, we ask for Your di- PRAYER IN THE CONSTITU- leave it to chance, war and conquest. rection, we ask for Your wisdom, and TIONAL CONVENTION ‘‘I therefore beg leave to move that Father, all of those things that we’re henceforth prayers imploring the as- going to need to know in order to serve The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a sistance of Heaven and its blessings on the American people. previous order of the House, the gen- our deliberations, be held in this As- And as we prayed there as a couple, tleman from Arkansas (Mr. BOOZMAN) sembly every morning before we pro- it was a very special moment. And as I is recognized for 5 minutes. ceed to business, and that one or more was sitting there and we were praying, Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield of the Clergy of this City be requested I began to think about 232 years ago to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. to officiate in that Service.’’ this July 4th, we thought about those CONAWAY). Mr. Speaker, we observe that tradi- men that got up and had this Declara- Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I want tion today. Every morning our House tion of Independence that started this to thank my good colleague from Ar- Chaplain and maybe one of our con- great country called America. And I al- kansas for assisting and allowing me to stituents from back home will come ways recall the way they ended that speak tonight. and pray and seek God’s wisdom on our declaration because they said, ‘‘We mu- Mr. Speaker, over the next 3 or 4 deliberations. As effective as that is, tually pledge to each other our lives, days, a partisan tone will be exhibited Mr. Speaker, I would argue that 435 our fortunes, and our sacred honor.’’ in these Chambers, harsh rhetoric will members of this House observing that You see, Mr. Speaker, they signed their be exchanged on both sides, some of it tradition of daily seeking out the plea death warrant for Dana and I to be able intentional, some of it in the heat of that Solomon had in II Chronicles 1:10 to sit there and kneel in the Nation’s the moment, some of it out of simple in which he asked God for wisdom and Capitol and exercise our right to pray frustration with not being able to con- knowledge that he might govern this to our Lord and Savior. vince ourselves of issues that are going great people, that 435 of us and 100 on And I thought about the men and on, but nevertheless, partisanship that the other end of this building, on our women over the 232 years that have is communicated back to America and knees every day, seeking wisdom, guid- served this Nation, that have given America’s despair that we will ever get ance and knowledge as how we would their lives and their service to protect past this partisanship. reduce the partisanship, how we would the right for us to do that. I think Is there some way for us to listen to try to strive valiantly to come to con- about just a few hundred feet from you and you listen to me and let us clusions and compromise with each where we are tonight, Mr. Speaker, I thoughtfully consider our positions and other that deal with the problems that think about the church services that then make those compromises that face this country.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5478 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 Our constituents are crying out for an open book there near where the pre- Founders said, I love what Franklin it. None of us go home that we don’t siding officer was over the signers of said when they were in the midst of de- come across somebody who has asked, the Constitution. And I took a closer bate, and he was advocating for prayer why do you constantly argue with each look and noticed that it was an open before, so they could get through this other and fuss and fight? Get some- book. And at the top it said ‘‘Saint impasse that they found themselves, he thing done. Matthew.’’ And certainly I don’t think made the statement that if a sparrow Benjamin Franklin knew a solution it is any coincidence that that book can’t fall without His knowledge, is it 221 years ago, Mr. Speaker. I would was open on that particular day. likely an empire can rise without His argue that that solution is more power- One may ask why our Founding Fa- assistance? The Founders understood ful today, and it is clearly more needed thers were so concerned about this the importance of prayer. They under- today by this body than even 210 years issue. And one reason I believe that stood the importance of faith. ago. they were so focused on this issue and And as many speakers have also referenced that document that I would f thought it was so important is because they had this radical belief that we are argue next to Scripture, second only to AMERICAN RELIGIOUS HISTORY all endowed by our Creator with cer- Scripture, the greatest words ever put WEEK tain inalienable rights. And this was on paper, the Declaration of Independ- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a indeed a radical concept in the time, ence, where the Founders wrote, ‘‘We previous order of the House, the gen- because in England your rights were hold these truths to be self-evident, all tleman from Alabama (Mr. ADERHOLT) granted to you by the king. Therefore, men are created equal, endowed by is recognized for 5 minutes. if the king or the queen granted your their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are life, lib- Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, I do rights, or if man granted your rights, erty and the pursuit of happiness,’’ fab- want to thank my colleagues for tak- then the king or the queen or the man ulous language, this almost romantic ing time to call attention to this topic could take those rights away. However, vision that the Founders had about that we have been discussing tonight. if God granted those rights, no person, what this country would offer to its And certainly from the very beginning be he king or queen, could take them of our history in this Nation, religious people. They understood that we did, in away. They were a gift of God. fact, get our rights from the Almighty, expression and faith was the norm So when one asks the importance of amongst conversations that our Found- and it is government’s job not to grant religious history and faith in America, us privileges, not to grant us rights, ing Fathers had. one can point to many reasons. And Mr. Speaker, the gentleman from but to protect the rights we have by one reason that we can point back to is the very fact we were created in God’s Virginia (Mr. FORBES) along with sev- that in the United States of America, eral of my colleagues tonight pointed image. rights are granted by God and not by And that fundamental principle is out that as we stand here tonight in man. different from any other country in this Chamber that as we look around f history. And again, it sets us apart. the room and we see the reliefs under THE WAR OF PRINCIPALITIES And so it is important that we recog- the ceiling of the Chamber, and we see nize this history and recognize this de- the 23 different lawgivers that are de- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a bate that is going on and not be afraid picted above the gallery doorways, the previous order of the House, the gen- to stand up and defend those principles most prominent relief, of course, has tleman from Ohio (Mr. JORDAN) is rec- that make us special. been noted is that of Moses who handed ognized for 5 minutes. I think it is appropriate that I end down the Ten Commandments. And of Mr. JORDAN of Ohio. I thank the with one of my favorite Scriptures in II course those Ten Commandments were Speaker for his patience this evening. I Timothy where Paul writes to Tim- handed down to the children of Israel want to thank Congressman FORBES for othy. He says, ‘‘I fought the good fight, from God Himself. putting the previous Special Order to- I finished the course, I have kept the Furthermore, it has been noted here gether on our religious history here in faith.’’ And that is our charge as Amer- tonight that ‘‘In God We Trust’’ is this country. icans, to fight the fight, to finish the above the Speaker’s chair, as it is our Mr. Speaker, make no mistake about course and to keep the faith that the national motto. And of course let’s not it. There is a debate going on today in Founders understood was central to forget that as we started the legisla- our culture over whose set of prin- making us the greatest nation ever. tive day today, before we voted on the ciples, whose set of values are going to f legislation just a couple of hours ago, a prevail. There are those of us who un- chaplain said a prayer that began the derstand the significance of faith, the LEAVE OF ABSENCE legislative day. And of course that has importance of faith in public life, the By unanimous consent, leave of ab- been the custom dating back to the importance of faith in America and our sence was granted to: days of our Founding Fathers. entire history and our entire experi- Mr. CONYERS (at the request of Mr. The Founding Fathers no doubt be- ence, those of us who understand that HOYER) for today on account of per- lieved that God had His Almighty hand faith has been central to making us the sonal business. in the founding and the building of this greatest Nation in human history Mr. ENGEL (at the request of Mr. Nation. George Washington himself be- versus those on the secular side who HOYER) for today on account of a codel lieved that America’s independence think we need a more secular culture. flight delay. Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas (at the re- from Britain ultimately depended on That is the debate. quest of Mr. HOYER) for today on ac- God and not man. I find it interesting And it is important that we weigh in count of a doctor’s appointment. that it is not unusual for the Founding on that debate. It is important that as Mr. KIND (at the request of Mr. Fathers when they dated documents at we wage that debate and argue for the HOYER) for today on account of flood- that time they would use the phrase importance of faith in our culture and ing in the district. ‘‘in the year of our Lord Jesus Christ our public life that we recognize the re- Mrs. NAPOLITANO (at the request of 1776’’ of what the date may have been. ligious history in the entire American Mr. HOYER) for today on account of A few months ago, I was walking experience that we have so enjoyed. I family obligations. down the stairways just outside of the believe the American people get it. I Mr. STARK (at the request of Mr. House Chamber, and one of the paint- believe the vast majority of families HOYER) for today after 6 p.m. and for ings that is above the stairways is the understand what the Founders under- the balance of the week. ‘‘Signing of the Constitution.’’ And I stood, that faith is central to who we f have passed by that painting hundreds are as a people and to the great place of times. Of course, most Americans we have as the greatest country in his- SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED are very familiar with that famous tory. By unanimous consent, permission to painting. But for some reason, one It has been said many times already address the House, following the legis- thing caught my eye that was not usu- by previous speakers, but I think when lative program and any special orders ally the case, and I noticed there was you think about some of the things the heretofore entered, was granted to:

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5479 (The following Members (at the re- 7145. A letter from the Director, Regu- 7155. A letter from the Under Secretary for quest of Ms. WOOLSEY) to revise and ex- latory Management Division, Environmental Acquisition, Technology and Logistics, De- tend their remarks and include extra- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- partment of Defense, transmitting the De- cy’s final rule — Bifenthrin; Pesticide Toler- partment’s report on the Federally Funded neous material:) ances [EPA-HQ-OPP-2007-0535; FRL-8366-4] Research and Development Center’s Esti- Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. received June 9, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. mated FY 2009 Staff-years of Technical Ef- Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Agri- fort (STEs) and Estimated Funding, pursu- Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. culture. ant to Public Law 110-116, section 8025(e); to Mr. SPRATT, for 5 minutes, today. 7146. A letter from the Director, Regu- the Committee on Armed Services. (The following Members (at the re- latory Management Division, Environmental 7156. A letter from the Deputy Under Sec- quest of Mr. SMITH of Nebraska) to re- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- retary for Logistics and Material Readiness, cy’s final rule — 1 ,3-Dichloropropene and Department of Defense, transmitting the an- vise and extend their remarks and in- metabolites; Pesticide Tolerance [EPA-HQ- nual report on operations of the National De- clude extraneous material:) OPP-2007-0637; FRL-8345-1] received April 30, fense Stockpile (NDS), detailing NDS oper- Mr. POE, for 5 minutes, June 20, 23 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the ations during FY 2007 and providing informa- and 24. Committee on Agriculture. tion with regard to the acquisition, upgrade, Mr. JONES of North Carolina, for 5 7147. A letter from the Director, Regu- and disposition of NDS materials, as well as minutes, June 20, 23 and 24. latory Management Division, Environmental the financial status of the NDS Transaction Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Mr. BISHOP of Utah, for 5 minutes, Fund for FY 2007, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 98h- cy’s final rule — (Z)-7,8-epoxy-2- 2(a); to the Committee on Armed Services. today and June 18. methyloctadecane (Disparlure); Exemption 7157. A letter from the Director, Regu- Mr. MCCOTTER, for 5 minutes, June from the Requirement of a Tolerance [EPA- latory Management Division, Environmental 19. HQ-OPP-2007-0596; FRL-8367-7] received June Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Mr. BURTON of Indiana, for 5 minutes, 9, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation June 20. the Committee on Agriculture. of Implementation Plans; New Jersey; Zero- Mr. FORTENBERRY, for 5 minutes, 7148. A letter from the Secretary to the Emission Vehicle Component of the Low today. Farm Credit Administration Board, Farm Emission Vehicle Program [Docket No. EPA- Credit Administration, transmitting the Ad- R02-OAR-2006-0920, FRL-8522-3] received April Mr. WELLER of Illinois, for 5 minutes, ministration’s ‘‘Major’’ final rule — Federal 30, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to June 18. Agricultural Mortgage Corporation Funding the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, for 5 minutes, and Fiscal Affairs; Risk-Based Capital Re- 7158. A letter from the Director, Regu- today, June 18, 19, and 20. quirements (RIN: 3052-AC36) received June latory Management Division, Environmental Mr. HASTINGS of Washington, for 5 11, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- minutes, June 18. the Committee on Agriculture. cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation 7149. A communication from the President Mr. CONAWAY, for 5 minutes, today. of Air Quality Implementation Plans; State of the United States, transmitting a request of Colorado; Regulation No. 7, Section XII, Mr. MORAN of Kansas, for 5 minutes, for FY 2009 budget amendments for the De- Volatile Organic Compounds from Oil and June 18 and 19. partments of Agriculture, Commerce, Health Gas Operations [EPA-R08-OAR-2007-1002; (The following Members (at their own and Human Services, Homeland Security, FRL-8521-5] received April 30, 2008, pursuant request) to revise and extend their re- the Interior, Labor, and the Treasury; (H. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on marks and include extraneous mate- Doc. No.110–123); to the Committee on Appro- Energy and Commerce. rial:) priations and ordered to be printed. 7159. A letter from the Director, Regu- 7150. A communication from the President latory Management Division, Environmental Mr. NEUGEBAUER, for 5 minutes, of the United States, transmitting a request Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- today. for FY 2009 budget amendments for the De- cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation Mr. BOOZMAN, for 5 minutes, today. partment of Agriculture, Energy, Homeland of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Ohio; Mr. ADERHOLT, for 5 minutes, today. Security, Housing and Urban Development, Oxides of Nitrogen Budget Trading Program Mr. JORDAN of Ohio, for 5 minutes, the Interior, Labor, Transportation, and the [EPA-R05-OAR-2006-0976; FRL-8526-8] re- today. Treasury; as well as the Corps of Engineers, ceived April 30, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. the National Aeronautics and Space Admin- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and f istration, and the Office of Personnel Man- Commerce. SENATE BILL REFERRED agement; (H. Doc. No. 110–124); to the Com- 7160. A letter from the Director, Regu- mittee on Appropriations and ordered to be latory Management Division, Environmental A bill of the Senate of the following printed. Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- title was taken from the Speaker’s 7151. A letter from the Principal Deputy cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation table and, under the rule, referred as Under Secretary for Personnel and Readi- of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Maine; follows: ness, Department of Defense, transmitting Conformity of General Federal Actions. S. Con. Res. 84. Concurrent resolution hon- authorization of the enclosed list of officers [EPA-R01-OAR-2007-0633; A-1-FRL-8517-6] re- oring the memory of Robert Mondavi; to the to wear the insignia of the grade of rear ad- ceived April 30, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Committee on Oversight and Government miral (lower half) accordance with title 10, 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and United States Code, section 777; to the Com- Reform. Commerce. mittee on Armed Services. 7161. A letter from the Director, Regu- f 7152. A letter from the Assistant Secretary latory Management Division, Environmental ADJOURNMENT for Installations and Environment, Depart- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- ment of the Navy, Department of Defense, cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, I move transmitting notice of the completion of a of Implementation Plans and Designation of that the House do now adjourn. public-private competition at the Marine Areas for Air Quality Planning Purposes; The motion was agreed to; accord- Corps Air Station Miramar located in San Wisconsin; Redesignation of Kewaunee Coun- ingly (at 9 o’clock and 56 minutes Diego, California, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. ty to Attainment for Ozone [EPA-R05-OAR- p.m.), under its previous order, the 2462(a); to the Committee on Armed Services. 2007-0957; FRL-8568-2] received May 19, 2008, 7153. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- House adjourned until tomorrow, ment of Defense, transmitting the Depart- mittee on Energy and Commerce. Wednesday, June 18, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. ment’s certification regarding the retire- 7162. A letter from the Director, Regu- f ment of one U-2 test configured aircraft lo- latory Management Division, Environmental cated at Palmdale, California, in accordance Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, with Section 133 of the National Defense Au- cy’s final rule — Protection of the Strato- ETC. thorization Act of FY 2007, as modified by spheric Ozone: Alternatives for the Motor Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive Section 132 of the National Defense Author- Vehicle Air Conditioning Sector under the communications were taken from the ization Act of FY 2008; to the Committee on Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Armed Services. Program [EPA-HQ-OAR-2004-0488; FRL-8578- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: 7154. A letter from the Assistant Secretary 1] (RIN: 2060-AM54) received June 9, 2008, pur- 7144. A letter from the Congressional Re- for Installations and Environment, Depart- suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- view Coordinator, Department of Agri- ment of the Navy, Department of Defense, mittee on Energy and Commerce. culture, transmitting the Department’s final transmitting notice of the completion of a 7163. A letter from the Director, Regu- rule — Consolidation of the Fruit Fly Regu- public-private competition at the Fleet Nu- latory Management Division, Environmental lations [Docket No. APHIS-2007-0084] (RIN: merical Meteorology Oceanography Center Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- 0579-AC57) received June 9, 2008, pursuant to located in Monterey, CA, pursuant to 10 cy’s final rule — Protection of 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on U.S.C. 2462(a); to the Committee on Armed Stratrospheric Ozone: Allocation of Essen- Agriculture. Services. tial Use Allowances for Calendar Year 2008

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE H5480 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE June 17, 2008 [EPA-HQ-OAR-2007-0297; FRL-8577-9] (RIN: ant to 31 U.S.C. 9106; to the Committee on port on H.R. 5781. A bill to provide that 8 of 2060-AO44) received June 9, 2008, pursuant to Oversight and Government Reform. the 12 weeks of parental leave made avail- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on 7175. A letter from the Acting Adminis- able to a Federal employee shall be paid Energy and Commerce. trator, General Services Administration, leave, and for other purposes. (Rept. 110–624 7164. A letter from the Associate Bureau transmitting a semiannual report on Office Pt. 2). Chief, PSHSB, Federal Communications of Inspector General auditing activity, to- Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- Commission, transmitting the Commission’s gether with a report providing manage- sources. H.R. 2964. A bill to amend the Lacey ‘‘Major’’ final rule — In the Matter of Im- ment’s perspective on the implementation Act Amendments of 1981 to treat nonhuman proving Public Safety Communications in status of audit recommendations for the pe- primates as prohibited wildlife species under the 800 MHz Band New 800 MHz Band Plan for riod October 1, 2007 to March 31, 2008, pursu- that Act, to make corrections in the provi- U.S. — Canada Border Regions [WT Docket ant to 5 U.S.C. app. (Insp. Gen. Act) section sions relating to captive wildlife offenses 02-55] received June 9, 2008, pursuant to 5 5(b); to the Committee on Oversight and under that Act, and for other purposes, with U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on En- Government Reform. an amendment (Rept. 110–712). Referred to ergy and Commerce. 7176. A letter from the Chairman, National the Committee of the Whole House on the 7165. A letter from the Legal Advisor, Labor Relations Board, transmitting the State of the Union. Chief, Wireless Telecomm. Bur., Federal semiannual report on the activities of the Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- Communications Commission, transmitting Office of Inspector General of the National sources. H.R. 3702. A bill to direct the Sec- the Commission’s final rule — In the Matter Labor Relations Board for the period October retary of Agriculture to convey certain land of Implementation of Sections 309(j) and 337 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008, pursuant to 5 in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National For- of the Communications Act of 1934 as U.S.C. app. (Insp. Gen. Act) section 8G(h)(2); est, Montana, to Jefferson County, Montana, Amended Promotion of Spectrum Efficient to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- for use as a cemetery (Rept. 110–713). Re- Technologies on Certain Part 90 Frequencies ment Reform. ferred to the Committee of the Whole House [WT Docket No. 99-87 RM-9332] received June 7177. A letter from the Chairman, Postal on the State of the Union. 9, 2008, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to Regulatory Commission, transmitting the Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Commission’s Semiannual Report for the pe- sources. H.R. 5710. A bill to authorize the 7166. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media riod of October 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008, Secretary of the Interior to provide financial Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- pursuant to the Inspector General Act of assistance to the Eastern New Mexico Rural sion, transmitting the Commission’s final 1978, as amended; to the Committee on Over- Water Authority for the planning, design, rule — In the Matter of Amendment of Sec- sight and Government Reform. and construction of the Eastern New Mexico tion 73.622(i), Final DTV Table of Allot- 7178. A letter from the Deputy Adminis- Rural Water System, and for other purposes ments, Television Broadcast Stations. (Riv- trator, Small Business Administration, (Rept. 110–714). Referred to the Committee of erside, California) [MM Docket No. 08-30 RM- transmitting the semiannual report of the the Whole House on the State of the Union. 11419] received June 9, 2008, pursuant to 5 Office of Inspector General for the period Oc- Mr. RAHALL: Committee on Natural Re- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on En- tober 1, 2007 through March 31, 2008, pursuant sources. H.R. 5511. A bill to direct the Sec- ergy and Commerce. to 5 U.S.C. app. (Insp. Gen. Act) section 5(b); retary of the Interior, acting through the 7167. A letter from the Director, Office of to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- Bureau of Reclamation, to remedy problems Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regulatory ment Reform. caused by a collapsed drainage tunnel in Commission, transmitting the Commission’s 7179. A letter from the Chair, Board of Leadville, Colorado, and for other purposes ‘‘Major’’ final rule — Revision of Fee Sched- Trustees, Morris K. Udall Foundation, trans- (Rept. 110–715). Referred to the Committee of ules; Fee Recovery for FY 2008 [NRC-2008- mitting the Foundation’s 2007 Annual Re- the Whole House on the State of the Union. 0080] (RIN: 3150-AI28) received June 11, 2008, port; to the Committee on Oversight and Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi: Committee pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Government Reform. on Homeland Security. House Resolution mittee on Energy and Commerce. 7180. A letter from the Acting Fiscal As- 1150. Resolution expressing the sense of the 7168. A communication from the President sistant Secretary, Department of the Treas- House of Representatives that the Transpor- of the United States, transmitting a supple- ury, transmitting the Department’s FY 2007 tation Security Administration should, in mental consolidated report, consistent with Report to the Congress U.S. Government Re- accordance with the congressional mandate the War Powers Resolution, to help ensure ceivables and Debt Collection Activities of provided for in the Implementing Rec- that the Congress is kept fully informed on Federal Agencies, pursuant to 31 U.S.C. ommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of U.S. military activities in support of the war 3716(c)(3)(B); to the Committee on the Judici- 2007, enhance security against terrorist at- on terror and in Kosovo, pursuant to Public ary. tack and other security threats to our Na- Law 93-148; (H. Doc. No. 110–122); to the Com- 7181. A letter from the Staff Director, Com- tion’s rail and mass transit lines, with mittee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be mission on Civil Rights, transmitting notifi- amendments (Rept. 110–716). Referred to the printed. cation that the Commission recently ap- House Calendar. 7169. A letter from the Chairman, Council pointed members to the Florida Advisory Mr. CARDOZA: Committee on Rules. of the District of Columbia, transmitting a Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- House Resolution 1276. Resolution providing copy of D.C. ACT 17-403, ‘‘Omnibus Domestic ary. for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5876) to re- Partnership Equality Amendment Act of 7182. A letter from the Staff Director, Com- quire certain standards and enforcement pro- 2008,’’ pursuant to D.C. Code section 1- mission on Civil Rights, transmitting notifi- visions to prevent child abuse and neglect in 233(c)(1); to the Committee on Oversight and cation that the Commission recently ap- residential programs, and for other purposes Government Reform. pointed members to the Kentucky Advisory (Rept. 110–717). Referred to the House Cal- 7170. A letter from the District of Columbia Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- endar. Auditor, Office of the District of Columbia ary. Mr. MCGOVERN: Committee on Rules. Auditor, transmitting a report entitled, ‘‘Re- 7183. A letter from the Staff Director, Com- House Resolution 1277. Resolution providing view of the District’s Cash Advance Fund,’’ mission on Civil Rights, transmitting notifi- for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5781) to pursuant to D.C. Code section 47-117(d); to cation that the Commission recently ap- provide that 8 of the 12 weeks of parental the Committee on Oversight and Govern- pointed members to the Wyoming Advisory leave made available to a Federal employee ment Reform. shall be paid leave, and for other purposes. 7171. A letter from the White House Liai- Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- (Rept. 110–718). Referred to the House Cal- son, Department of Justice, transmitting a ary. endar. report pursuant to the Federal Vacancies Re- 7184. A communication from the President of the United States, transmitting notifica- form Act of 1998; to the Committee on Over- f sight and Government Reform. tion of the designations of Shara L. Aranoff 7172. A letter from the White House Liai- as Chairman and Daniel Pearson as Vice PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS son, Department of Justice, transmitting a Chairman of the United States International Trade Commission, effective June 17, 2008, Under clause 2 of rule XII, public report pursuant to the Federal Vacancies Re- bills and resolutions were introduced form Act of 1998; to the Committee on Over- pursuant to 19 U.S.C. 1330(c)(1); to the Com- sight and Government Reform. mittee on Ways and Means. and severally referred, as follows: 7173. A letter from the White House Liai- f By Mr. SHADEGG: son, Department of Justice, transmitting a H.R. 6274. A bill to provide an equivalent to report pursuant to the Federal Vacancies Re- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON habeas corpus protection for persons held form Act of 1998; to the Committee on Over- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS under military authority under that part of sight and Government Reform. Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Cuba leased to the United States; to the 7174. A letter from the Executive Vice committees were delivered to the Clerk Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition President and Chief Financial Officer, Fed- to the Committee on Armed Services, for a eral Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, transmit- for printing and reference to the proper period to be subsequently determined by the ting the 2007 management report and state- calendar, as follows: Speaker, in each case for consideration of ments on system of internal controls of the Mr. WAXMAN: Committee on Oversight such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, pursu- and Government Reform. Supplemental re- tion of the committee concerned.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H5481 By Mr. RANGEL (for himself, Mr. H.R. 6284. A bill to amend the Commodity By Mr. PETRI (for himself, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Exchange Act to prevent price manipulation WHITFIELD of Kentucky, Mr. Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts, Mr. POM- and excessive speculation and to increase LOBIONDO, and Mr. MARIO DIAZ- EROY, Mrs. JONES of Ohio, Mr. transparency with respect to energy trading BALART of Florida): BLUMENAUER, Ms. BERKLEY, Mr. on foreign exchanges conducted within the H. Res. 1278. A resolution expressing the CROWLEY, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. MEEK United States; to the Committee on Agri- sense of the House of Representatives that of Florida, Mr. LEVIN, and Mr. culture. the United States Government should lead LARSON of Connecticut): By Ms. MATSUI: an international diplomatic initiative to H.R. 6275. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- H.R. 6285. A bill to amend the National limit inefficient speculation on international enue Code of 1986 to provide individuals tem- Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to provide for energy exchanges through the adoption of porary relief from the alternative minimum adequate progress on the construction of a international standards for energy futures tax, and for other purposes; to the Com- flood protection system to include the appro- trading margin requirements as an appro- mittee on Ways and Means. priation of at least 60 percent of the system priate means of ensuring access to reliable By Mr. CAZAYOUX (for himself, Mr. cost from Federal, State, or local funds; to and affordable supplies of crude oil; to the CHILDERS, Ms. WATERS, Mr. THOMP- the Committee on Financial Services. Committee on Foreign Affairs. SON of Mississippi, Mr. FRANK of Mas- By Mr. GEORGE MILLER of Cali- By Mr. TERRY: fornia: sachusetts, Mr. CUELLAR, and Mrs. H. Res. 1279. A resolution recognizing the H.R. 6286. A bill to designate the facility of CAPITO): Special Olympics’ 40th anniversary; to the H.R. 6276. A bill to repeal section 9(k) of the United States Postal Service located at 1025 Nevin Avenue in Richmond, California, Committee on Foreign Affairs. the United States Housing Act of 1937; to the By Mr. TIBERI (for himself, Mr. REG- Committee on Financial Services. as the ‘‘Harold D. McCraw, Sr. Post Office Building‘‘; to the Committee on Oversight ULA, Mr. BOEHNER, Mr. HOBSON, Ms. By Mr. BUYER: PRYCE of Ohio, Mr. LATOURETTE, Mr. H.R. 6277. A bill to amend title 38, United and Government Reform. CHABOT, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. TURNER, States Code, to authorize the Secretary of By Mr. SOUDER (for himself and Mr. Mrs. SCHMIDT, Mr. JORDAN, Mr. WIL- Veterans Affairs to provide a dental insur- ELLSWORTH): SON of Ohio, Mr. LATTA, and Mr. ance plan for certain veterans and their sur- H.R. 6287. A bill to amend title 38, United RYAN of Ohio): vivors and dependents; to the Committee on States Code, to change the method of deter- Veterans’ Affairs. mining the mileage reimbursement rate H. Res. 1280. A resolution honoring and recognizing the life, achievements, and con- By Mr. KIRK (for himself, Mr. COHEN, under the beneficiary travel program admin- tributions of John Henderson McConnell; to Mr. REICHERT, Mr. WHITFIELD of Ken- istered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Committee on Oversight and Govern- tucky, Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. RAHALL, and for other purposes; to the Committee on ment Reform. Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. FOS- Veterans’ Affairs. By Mr. MCHUGH (for himself, Mr. KUHL TER, Mr. SHAYS, Mr. JONES of North f of New York, Mr. KING of New York, Carolina, and Mr. MOORE of Kansas): H.R. 6278. A bill to amend title 49, United and Mr. WALSH of New York): ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 6288. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- States Code, to prohibit the transportation Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors of horses in interstate transportation in a enue Code of 1986 to provide for tax-favored motor vehicle containing 2 or more levels retirement health savings accounts, and for were added to public bills and resolu- stacked on top of one another; to the Com- other purposes; to the Committee on Ways tions as follows: and Means. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- H.R. 21: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. By Mr. HIGGINS (for himself, Mr. ACK- ture. H.R. 39: Mr. CARSON. ERMAN, Mr. ARCURI, Mr. BACA, Ms. By Mr. CHABOT: H.R. 139: Mr. POE. BEAN, Mr. BERMAN, Mr. BISHOP of H.R. 6279. A bill to reduce speculation in H.R. 298: Mr. SESTAK. New York, Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. BOU- crude oil markets, and for other purposes; to H.R. 423: Mr. HOEKSTRA. CHER, Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida, the Committee on Agriculture. H.R. 581: Mrs. BACHMANN. Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. CARNEY, Mr. COHEN, By Mr. FORTENBERRY: H.R. 618: Mr. SCALISE. Mr. COSTA, Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. DAVIS H.R. 6280. A bill to provide for the offering H.R. 741: Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. of Illinois, Mr. TOM DAVIS of Vir- of Health Benefit Plans to individuals, to in- H.R. 821: Mr. BOREN. ginia, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. DICKS, Mr. crease funding for State high risk health in- H.R. 947: Mr. HOLT. DOYLE, Mr. EMANUEL, Mr. ENGEL, Ms. surance pools, and to promote best practice H.R. 992: Mr. BLUMENAUER. ESHOO, Mr. FARR, Mr. FILNER, Mr. AL protocols for State high risk pools; to the H.R. 1070: Mr. RUSH. Committee on Energy and Commerce. GREEN of Texas, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. H.R. 1078: Ms. SUTTON. By Mr. GALLEGLY: HALL of New York, Mr. HARE, Ms. H.R. 1148: Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 6281. A bill to provide States with the HARMAN, Mr. HINCHEY, Mr. HINOJOSA, H.R. 1223: Ms. SLAUGHTER. resources needed to rid our schools of per- Ms. HIRONO, Mr. HODES, Mr. HOLDEN, H.R. 1228: Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of Cali- formance-enhancing drug use; to the Com- Mr. HOLT, Mr. ISRAEL, Ms. EDDIE fornia. mittee on Education and Labor. BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. KIL- H.R. 1232: Mr. CHANDLER. By Ms. GRANGER (for herself, Mr. DEE, Ms. KILPATRICK, Mr. KING of H.R. 1279: Mr. CARSON. MCGOVERN, Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, New York, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. H.R. 1283: Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. DOYLE, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, LANGEVIN, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mrs. H.R. 1431: Mr. MCHENRY and Mr. UPTON. and Mr. HINOJOSA): LOWEY, Mr. LYNCH, Mrs. MALONEY of H.R. 6282. A bill to increase housing, New York, Mr. MARKEY, Mrs. MCCAR- H.R. 1436: Mr. CARSON. awareness, and navigation demonstration THY of New York, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. H.R. 1540: Ms. NORTON. services (HANDS) for individuals with au- MEEKS of New York, Mr. MELANCON, H.R. 1552: Mrs. DRAKE. tism spectrum disorders; to the Committee Mr. MICHAUD, Ms. MCCOLLUM of Min- H.R. 1606: Mr. BARROW, Ms. LEE, and Mr. on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to nesota, Mr. MCNULTY, Ms. MOORE of SESTAK. the Committee on Financial Services, for a Wisconsin, Mr. MORAN of Virginia, H.R. 1621: Mr. REYES. period to be subsequently determined by the Mr. NADLER, Mr. OBERSTAR, Mr. H.R. 1655: Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Speaker, in each case for consideration of OBEY, Mr. ORTIZ, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. H.R. 1673: Mr. MURTHA. such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- PAYNE, Mr. POMEROY, Mr. PRICE of H.R. 1783: Mr. THOMPSON of California, Mr. tion of the committee concerned. North Carolina, Mr. RANGEL, Mr. PAYNE, and Mr. ETHERIDGE. By Mr. LEWIS of Georgia: REYNOLDS, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, Mr. ROSS, H.R. 1801: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. BISHOP H.R. 6283. A bill to increase the standard Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. RUSH, Mr. of Utah, and Mr. MILLER of North Carolina. mileage rate for use of an automobile for RYAN of Ohio, Ms. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ H.R. 1866: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. business, medical, and moving deduction of California, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. H.R. 1921: Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. purposes for 2008 and permanently increase SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. SERRANO, Mr. H.R. 1947: Ms. SUTTON. such rate for charitable deduction purposes SESTAK, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. SMITH H.R. 2020: Mr. MILLER of North Carolina. under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and of Washington, Ms. SUTTON, Mrs. H.R. 2032: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. to temporarily increase the reimbursement TAUSCHER, Mr. THOMPSON of Cali- H.R. 2058: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. rate for use of an automobile by Federal em- fornia, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. UDALL of Col- H.R. 2104: Mr. HAYES. ployees; to the Committee on Ways and orado, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. H.R. 2266: Mr. PLATTS and Mr. LAMPSON. Means, and in addition to the Committee on VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. WATSON, Mr. WAX- H.R. 2279: Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. LUCAS, Mr. Oversight and Government Reform, for a pe- MAN, Mr. WILSON of Ohio, and Mr. THORNBERRY, Mr. CALVERT, Mr. SMITH of riod to be subsequently determined by the WU): Texas, Mr. REHBERG, Mr. SESSIONS, and Mr. Speaker, in each case for consideration of H. Res. 1275. A resolution honoring the life BACHUS. such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- of Timothy John Russert, Jr., public servant, H.R. 2320: Mr. MEEK of Florida. tion of the committee concerned. political analyst, and author; to the Com- H.R. 2329: Mr. OBERSTAR and Mr. By Mr. MATHESON (for himself and mittee on Oversight and Government Re- MARCHANT. Mr. MELANCON): form. considered and agreed to. H.R. 2343: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia.

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H.R. 2392: Mr. BISHOP of New York. H.R. 5265: Mr. KIND, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New H.R. 6137: Mr. HENSARLING. H.R. 2435: Mr. WAXMAN. York, Mr. GORDON, and Mr. NADLER. H.R. 6140: Mr. SESTAK, Mr. FRANKS of Ari- H.R. 2472: Mr. PASTOR. H.R. 5402: Mr. SESTAK. zona, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, and Mr. H.R. 2493: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. H.R. 5443: Mr. SESTAK. MICHAUD. REHBERG, Mr. COLE of Oklahoma, and Mr. H.R. 5466: Mr. PALLONE. H.R. 6150: Ms. PRYCE of Ohio. LUCAS. H.R. 5507: Mr. CARSON. H.R. 6184: Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. SOUDER, and H.R. 2639: Mr. BOOZMAN and Ms. FOXX. H.R. 5559: Mrs. BACHMANN. Ms. SUTTON. H.R. 2712: Mr. HALL of Texas. H.R. 5564: Ms. GIFFORDS. H.R. 6185: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. H.R. 2721: Mr. GRIJALVA and Mr. PATRICK H.R. 5573: Mr. LATOURETTE and Mr. JOHN- H.R. 6187: Mr. RUSH, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Mr. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. SON of Georgia. JEFFERSON, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 2842: Mr. NADLER. H.R. 5575: Mr. ELLISON. LEWIS of Georgia, and Mrs. JONES of Ohio. H.R. 2851: Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- H.R. 5605: Mr. WEXLER, Mr. MARSHALL, and H.R. 6199: Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Mr. vania, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, Mr. WALZ of Min- Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. HINCHEY, and Mr. CROWLEY. nesota, and Mr. SIRES. H.R. 5629: Mrs. DAVIS of California. H.R. 6209: Mr. BOUCHER and Ms. SPEIER. H.R. 2905: Mr. SCALISE. H.R. 5635: Mr. PORTER. H.R. 6210: Mr. BARTLETT of Maryland and H.R. 2923: Mr. PICKERING and Mr. BOUCHER. H.R. 5656: Mr. MCHUGH, Ms. GINNY BROWN- Mr. CARSON. H.R. 2926: Ms. MATSUI. WAITE of Florida, Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. CAL- H.R. 6214: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. H.R. 2942: Mr. GRAVES. VERT, Mr. BACHUS, and Mr. REHBERG. H.R. 6219: Mr. SIMPSON, Mr. MARCHANT, H.R. 2994: Mr. WAMP. H.R. 5696: Mr. MICHAUD. Mrs. CUBIN, Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois, Mr. H.R. 3004: Mr. STUPAK. H.R. 5731: Mr. GOODE. COBLE, Mrs. BONO MACK, and Mr. WALBERG. H.R. 3010: Mr. INSLEE. H.R. 5737: Mrs. SCHMIDT and Mr. JOHNSON of H.R. 6220: Mr. JORDAN. H.R. 3036: Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. BRADY of Illinois. H.R. 6236: Ms. PRYCE of Ohio and Mr. REG- Pennsylvania, and Mr. CARNAHAN. H.R. 5760: Mr. LATOURETTE. ULA. H.R. 3094: Ms. HOOLEY, Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, H.R. 5772: Mr. LYNCH and Mr. COHEN. H.R. 6251: Ms. CASTOR, Mr. VISCLOSKY, Mr. Mr. MICHAUD, Mr. INSLEE, Mr. BAIRD, Mr. H.R. 5793: Mr. JEFFERSON. FOSTER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mrs. MALONEY of REICHERT, Mr. FARR, Ms. BERKLEY, and Mr. H.R. 5825: Mr. SHERMAN. New York, Mr. CARSON, Ms. HIRONO, Ms. GIF- SOUDER. H.R. 5831: Mr. ALTMIRE. FORDS, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. SIRES, Mr. H.R. 3098: Mr. CUELLAR and Mr. PLATTS. H.R. 5854: Mr. STEARNS, Mr. YOUNG of Alas- PASCRELL, Mr. KAGEN, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, H.R. 3144: Mr. KLINE of Minnesota. ka, Mr. JONES of North Carolina, and Mr. Ms. SLAUGHTER, and Ms. MCCOLLUM of Min- H.R. 3327: Mr. KNOLLENBERG. MICA. nesota. H.R. 3334: Mr. STEARNS. H.R. 5864: Mr. FORTENBERRY. H.R. 6253: Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 3347: Mr. RUSH and Mr. HASTINGS of H.R. 5868: Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. MCCAUL H.R. 6256: Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. MORAN Florida. of Texas, Mr. ADERHOLT, Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Virginia, Mr. PATRICK MURPHY of Pennsyl- H.R. 3430: Mr. GONZALEZ, Ms. ROS- of Tennessee, Mr. BOREN, Mr. CAZAYOUX, Mr. vania, and Mr. KAGEN. LEHTINEN, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. STUPAK, CHILDERS, Mr. ROSS, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. H.J. Res. 39: Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. HALL of Texas, and Mr. SHULER. BOSWELL, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. BACA, Ms. ROY- H.J. Res. 45: Mr. CHILDERS. H.R. 3453: Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York and BAL-ALLARD, Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, Mr. H.J. Res. 79: Ms. LEE, Ms. KAPTUR, and Ms. Mr. HONDA. MANZULLO, Mr. PETERSON of Pennsylvania, SCHAKOWSKY. H.R. 3494: Mr. SHAYS. Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. SIMPSON, H. Con. Res. 81: Mr. MCCOTTER. H.R. 3543: Mr. MILLER of North Carolina. Mr. WAMP, Mrs. MUSGRAVE, Mr. DANIEL E. H. Con. Res. 163: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER and H.R. 3544: Mr. YARMUTH. LUNGREN of California, Mr. BURGESS, Mr. Mr. HAYES. H.R. 3563: Ms. LEE. MCCARTHY of California, Ms. BORDALLO, and H. Con. Res. 253: Mr. JEFFERSON. H.R. 3627: Mr. CHILDERS. Mr. HOLT. H. Con. Res. 299: Mr. CALVERT, Mr. DAVIS of H.R. 3645: Mr. CARSON. H.R. 5878: Mr. CASTLE. Illinois, Mr. WELCH of Vermont, Mrs. H.R. 3710: Mr. CARSON. H.R. 5898: Mr. TOWNS. MYRICK, and Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. H.R. 3715: Mr. PAUL. H.R. 5925: Mr. ELLISON and Mr. JACKSON of H. Con. Res. 338: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. KIL- H.R. 3769: Mr. MOORE of Kansas and Mr. Illinois. PATRICK, and Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Carson. H.R. 5935: Mr. CUMMINGS. H. Con. Res. 344: Mr. DELAHUNT. H.R. 3820: Mrs. BOYDA of Kansas. H.R. 5936: Mrs. LOWEY. H. Con. Res. 350: Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. H.R. 3822: Mr. PETERSON of Minnesota. H.R. 5942: Ms. DEGETTE and Mr. DAVID HIRONO, Mr. WAXMAN, Mrs. MALONEY of New H.R. 3896: Mr. CARSON. DAVIS of Tennessee. York, and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. H.R. 3969: Mr. GRAVES. H.R. 5949: Ms. SUTTON, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, H. Con. Res. 360: Ms. CORRINE BROWN of H.R. 4001: Mr. MCCOTTER. and Mr. KING of New York. Florida, Mr. RANGEL, Ms. SLAUGHTER, and H.R. 4026: Mr. STARK. H.R. 5971: Mr. WESTMORELAND and Mr. Mr. JEFFERSON. H.R. 4048: Ms. WOOLSEY and Mr. MEEKS of BLUNT. H. Con. Res. 361: Mr. MCDERMOTT, Ms. ROY- New York. H.R. 5974: Mr. TIAHRT. BAL-ALLARD, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. H.R. 4061: Mr. FILNER. H.R. 5984: Mr. BOOZMAN, Mr. LINDER, Mr. BLUMENAUER, and Mr. HARE. H.R. 4091: Mr. POMEROY. PETERSON of Pennsylvania, Mr. CARTER, and H. Con. Res. 362: Mr. TIM MURPHY of Penn- H.R. 4188: Mr. WEINER. Mr. BUYER. sylvania, Mr. CLAY, Mr. COSTELLO, Mr. H.R. 4208: Mr. MEEK of Florida. H.R. 6034: Mr. HINOJOSA and Mr. SHAYS. WEINER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. THOMPSON of H.R. 4236: Mr. FATTAH, Mr. OBERSTAR, and H.R. 6045: Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. Mississippi, Mr. EMANUEL, Mr. JORDAN, Mr. Ms. WATSON. SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. MILLER of North Caro- HELLER, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. FEENEY, H.R. 4238: Mr. PASCRELL. lina, Ms. Tsongas, Mrs. MCCARTHY of New Mr. ARCURI, Mr. BOYD of Florida, Mrs. H.R. 4264: Mr. MEEK of Florida. York, Mr. STARK, and Mr. WEINER. DRAKE, Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, Ms. EDDIE H.R. 4273: Mr. WALBERG. H.R. 6052: Mr. JACKSON of Illinois and Mr. BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. SOUDER, Ms. H.R. 4296: Ms. GIFFORDS. KANJORSKI. FALLIN, Mr. LINCOLN DAVIS of Tennessee, Mr. H.R. 4690: Mr. DUNCAN. H.R. 6067: Mr. HINOJOSA and Mr. DONNELLY. COURTNEY, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. KING of New H.R. 4736: Mr. PAUL. H.R. 6073: Mr. SHULER, Ms. BORDALLO, and York, and Mr. BISHOP of Utah. H.R. 4838: Mr. CARSON, Mr. DEFAZIO, and Mr. RANGEL. H. Con. Res. 364: Mrs. MALONEY of New Ms. SUTTON. H.R. 6076: Mr. BACA, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. York. H.R. 4849: Mr. GRIJALVA. CLEAVER, and Mr. MCDERMOTT. H. Con. Res. 365: Ms. SOLIS. H.R. 4900: Mr. FORTENBERRY, Mrs. EMER- H.R. 6104: Mr. HILL, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- H. Con. Res. 369: Mr. CARSON, Ms. SON, and Mr. BACA. vania, Mr. SESTAK, Ms. DEGETTE, BORDALLO, Mr. MCNULTY, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, H.R. 4918: Mr. MILLER of Florida, Ms. GINNY Ms. ESHOO, Mr. LYNCH, and Mr. YARMUTH. and Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. BROWN-WAITE of Florida, Ms. WASSERMAN H.R. 6107: Mr. GOODLATTE, Mr. BROUN of H. Con. Res. 371: Mr. BERMAN, Mr. CROW- SCHULTZ, Mr. CRENSHAW, Mr. MEEK of Flor- Georgia, Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania, Mr. LEY, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. BERKLEY, Ms. ida, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. KLEIN of MCCOTTER, Mr. DOOLITTLE, Mr. MILLER of SCHWARTZ, Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. FRANK Florida, Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida, Mr. Florida, Mr. FEENEY, Mr. BACHUS, Mrs. of Massachusetts, Mr. BURTON of Indiana, WEXLER, Mr. MACK, Ms. CASTOR, Mr. BU- SCHMIDT, and Mr. GOODE. Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Mr. WEINER, Ms. CHANAN, Mr. BOYD of Florida, Mr. FEENEY, H.R. 6108: Mr. CALVERT, Mr. SCALISE, Mr. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, and Mr. HALL of New Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of SMITH of Texas, Mr. REHBERG, Mr. BACHUS, York. Florida, Mr. STEARNS, Mr. KELLER, Mr. PUT- and Mr. LUCAS. H. Res. 102: Mr. LANGEVIN. NAM, Mr. MICA, Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of H.R. 6122: Mr. MCNULTY. H. Res. 353: Mrs. MALONEY of New York, Florida, and Mr. MAHONEY of Florida. H.R. 6126: Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. FOSSELLA, and Mr. H.R. 4930: Mr. FORTUN˜ O. H.R. 6127: Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. JEFFERSON, BILBRAY. H.R. 5143: Mr. DEFAZIO and Mr. CARNAHAN. Mr. CARSON, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, and Mr. AL H. Res. 373: Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania H.R. 5244: Mr. INSLEE, Mr. BRADY of Penn- GREEN of Texas. and Mr. WEINER. sylvania, Mr. CARSON, and Ms. SPEIER. H.R. 6129: Mr. BOUSTANY. H. Res. 415: Mrs. DAVIS of California.

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H. Res. 711: Mr. SESTAK. and grew, including invaluable help to (2) commends and honors Native Peoples H. Res. 881: Mr. BOEHNER. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark on for the thousands of years that they have H. Res. 937: Mr. SHIMKUS. their epic journey from St. Louis, Missouri, stewarded and protected this land; H. Res. 970: Mr. ROGERS of Michigan, Mr. to the Pacific Coast; (3) recognizes that there have been years of ROSKAM, Mr. JONES of North Carolina, Mr. (9) Native Peoples and non-Native settlers official depredations, ill-conceived policies, CHANDLER, Mr. CONAWAY, and Mr. WILSON of engaged in numerous armed conflicts in and the breaking of covenants by the Federal South Carolina. which unfortunately, both took innocent Government regarding Indian tribes; H. Res. 1127: Mr. KING of New York. lives, including those of women and children; (4) apologizes on behalf of the people of the H. Res. 1136: Mr. TOWNS, Mr. LEWIS of Geor- (10) the Federal Government violated many United States to all Native Peoples for the gia, Ms. BORDALLO, and Mr. PAYNE. of the treaties ratified by Congress and other many instances of violence, maltreatment, H. Res. 1143: Ms. GIFFORDS, Mr. SALAZAR, diplomatic agreements with Indian tribes; and neglect inflicted on Native Peoples by and Mr. YOUNG of Alaska. (11) the United States forced Indian tribes citizens of the United States; H. Res. 1182: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. and their citizens to move away from their (5) expresses its regret for the ramifica- H. Res. 1187: Mr. HINOJOSA. traditional homelands and onto federally es- tions of former wrongs and its commitment H. Res. 1198: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. tablished and controlled reservations, in ac- to build on the positive relationships of the H. Res. 1219: Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. cordance with such Acts as the Act of May past and present to move toward a brighter H. Res. 1227: Mr. MORAN of Kansas and Ms. 28, 1830 (4 Stat. 411, chapter 148) (commonly future where all the people of this land live SCHAKOWSKY. known as the ‘‘Indian Removal Act’’); reconciled as brothers and sisters, and har- H. Res. 1230: Mr. SMITH of New Jersey, Mr. (12) many Native Peoples suffered and per- moniously steward and protect this land to- CROWLEY, Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. ished— gether; BLUMENAUER, and Mr. SMITH of Washington. (A) during the execution of the official (6) urges the President to acknowledge the H. Res. 1239: Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. TOWNS, Mr. Federal Government policy of forced re- wrongs of the United States against Indian FARR, and Ms. HIRONO. tribes in the history of the United States in H. Res. 1242: Mr. MCGOVERN, Ms. BORDALLO, moval, including the infamous Trail of Tears and Long Walk; order to bring healing to this land; and and Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. (7) commends the State governments that H. Res. 1245: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. (B) during bloody armed confrontations and massacres, such as the Sand Creek Mas- have begun reconciliation efforts with recog- DELAHUNT, Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. DOYLE, Mr. nized Indian tribes located in their bound- FORTENBERRY, Mr. JEFFERSON, Ms. EDDIE sacre in 1864 and the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890; and aries and encourages all State governments BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. MILLER of similarly to work toward reconciling rela- North Carolina, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. (C) on numerous Indian reservations; (13) the Federal Government condemned tionships with Indian tribes within their SESTAK, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. TANCREDO, and Ms. boundaries. WATERS. the traditions, beliefs, and customs of Native (c) DISCLAIMER.—Nothing in this section— H. Res. 1266: Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. WILSON of Peoples and endeavored to assimilate them (1) authorizes or supports any claim South Carolina, Mr. VISCLOSKY, and Mr. by such policies as the redistribution of land against the United States; or RADANOVICH. under the Act of February 8, 1887 (25 U.S.C. 331; 24 Stat. 388, chapter 119) (commonly (2) serves as a settlement of any claim f known as the ‘‘General Allotment Act’’), and against the United States. AMENDMENTS the forcible removal of Native children from H.R. 1328 their families to faraway boarding schools Under clause 8 of rule XVIII, pro- OFFERED BY: MR. COLE OF OKLAHOMA where their Native practices and languages posed amendments were submitted as were degraded and forbidden; AMENDMENT NO. 2: Add at the end the fol- follows: (14) officials of the Federal Government lowing new title: H.R. 1328 and private United States citizens harmed TITLE III—MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS OFFERED BY: MR. COLE OF OKLAHOMA Native Peoples by the unlawful acquisition of recognized tribal land and the theft of SECTION 1. SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING AMENDMENT NO. 1: Add at the end the fol- LAW ENFORCEMENT AND METH- lowing new title: tribal resources and assets from recognized AMPHETAMINE ISSUES IN INDIAN tribal land; TITLE III—MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS COUNTRY. (15) the policies of the Federal Government SECTION 1. APOLOGY TO NATIVE PEOPLES OF It is the sense of Congress that Congress toward Indian tribes and the breaking of cov- encourages State, local, and Indian tribal UNITED STATES. enants with Indian tribes have contributed (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds that— law enforcement agencies to enter into to the severe social ills and economic trou- memoranda of agreement between and (1) the ancestors of today’s Native Peoples bles in many Native communities today; inhabited the land of the present-day United among those agencies for purposes of stream- (16) despite the wrongs committed against lining law enforcement activities and maxi- States since time immemorial and for thou- Native Peoples by the United States, Native sands of years before the arrival of people of mizing the use of limited resources— Peoples have remained committed to the (1) to improve law enforcement services European descent; protection of this great land, as evidenced by (2) for millennia, Native Peoples have hon- provided to Indian tribal communities; and the fact that, on a per capita basis, more Na- ored, protected, and stewarded this land we (2) to increase the effectiveness of meas- tive Peoples have served in the United States cherish; ures to address problems relating to meth- Armed Forces and placed themselves in (3) Native Peoples are spiritual people with amphetamine use in Indian Country (as de- harm’s way in defense of the United States a deep and abiding belief in the Creator, and fined in section 1151 of title 18, United States in every major military conflict than any for millennia Native Peoples have main- Code). other ethnic group; tained a powerful spiritual connection to (17) Indian tribes have actively influenced H.R. 1328 this land, as evidenced by their customs and the public life of the United States by con- OFFERED BY: MR. COLE OF OKLAHOMA legends; tinued cooperation with Congress and the (4) the arrival of Europeans in North Amer- AMENDMENT NO. 3: Page 341, line 11, after Department of the Interior, through the in- ica opened a new chapter in the history of ‘‘title.’’ insert the following: ‘‘The Federal volvement of Native individuals in official Native Peoples; Government shall not withhold funding from Federal Government positions, and by lead- (5) while establishment of permanent Euro- any Indian tribe or tribal organization or en- ership of their own sovereign Indian tribes; pean settlements in North America did stir tity, based solely on the Indian tribe’s citi- (18) Indian tribes are resilient and deter- conflict with nearby Indian tribes, peaceful zenship requirements.’’. mined to preserve, develop, and transmit to and mutually beneficial interactions also Page 344, beginning line 4, insert the fol- future generations their unique cultural took place; lowing: identities; (6) the foundational English settlements in (5) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of (19) the National Museum of the American Jamestown, Virginia, and Plymouth, Massa- Congress that— Indian was established within the Smithso- chusetts, owed their survival in large meas- (A) the right of self-government flows from nian Institution as a living memorial to Na- ure to the compassion and aid of Native Peo- the inherent sovereignty of Indian tribes and tive Peoples and their traditions; and ples in the vicinities of the settlements; nations; (20) Native Peoples are endowed by their (7) in the infancy of the United States, the (B) an Indian tribe’s sovereignty includes Creator with certain unalienable rights, and founders of the Republic expressed their de- the power to protect tribal self-government among those are life, liberty, and the pursuit sire for a just relationship with the Indian and to control internal relations; of happiness. tribes, as evidenced by the Northwest Ordi- (C) the United States recognizes a special nance enacted by Congress in 1787, which be- (b) ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND APOLOGY.—The government-to-government relationship gins with the phrase, ‘‘The utmost good faith United States, acting through Congress— with Indian tribes, including the right of the shall always be observed toward the Indi- (1) recognizes the special legal and polit- tribes to self-governance, as reflected in the ans’’; ical relationship Indian tribes have with the Constitution, treaties, Federal statutes, and (8) Indian tribes provided great assistance United States and the solemn covenant with the course of dealings of the United States to the fledgling Republic as it strengthened the land we share; with Indian tribes;

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VerDate Aug 31 2005 06:35 Sep 14, 2008 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD08\RECFILES\H17JN8.REC H17JN8 mmaher on PROD1PC76 with CONG-REC-ONLINE E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 110 CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION

Vol. 154 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, JUNE 17, 2008 No. 100 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was appoint the Honorable JON TESTER, a Sen- ployment compensation. If we do not called to order by the Honorable JON ator from the State of Montana, to perform agree to pass this bill at this time, TESTER, a Senator from the State of the duties of the Chair. there will not be a long floor debate on Montana. ROBERT C. BYRD, unemployment compensation. What we President pro tempore. will do, it is my understanding this leg- PRAYER Mr. TESTER thereupon assumed the islation will be in the supplemental we The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- chair as Acting President pro tempore. will get from the House. That being the fered the following prayer: f case, we will have ample time to talk Let us pray. about the issue if anybody wants to. God of hope, who fills us with joy and RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY LEADER The distinguished majority whip is peace, sustain our Senators and those going to speak on unemployment com- who support them with the power of The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- pensation, as are some others today. Your Holy Spirit. Work in them, ena- pore. The majority leader is recog- But right now I ask unanimous consent bling them to do infinitely more than nized. that the Senate proceed to the consid- they can imagine. f eration of Calendar No. 780, H.R. 5749, a Lord, give them a peace which the bill we recently received from the world cannot give and a passion to ac- SCHEDULE House, the Emergency Extended Unem- complish Your purposes. When they are Mr. REID. Mr. President, today fol- ployment Compensation Act. I ask that weary, give them rest, and when they lowing leader remarks, there will be an the bill be read a third time, passed, are discouraged, empower them to per- hour for morning business. Senators and the motion to reconsider be laid severe. Prepare their hearts and minds will be able to speak for up to 10 min- upon the table, with no intervening ac- to serve You and country with humil- utes each. The Republicans will control tion or debate. ity and integrity, as they work to- the first half, and the majority will The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- gether with mutual forbearance and re- control the second half. The Senate pore. Is there objection? spect. will proceed thereafter to the motion Lord, teach them to seek first Your Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I do object. to proceed to H.R. 6049, the Renewable honor and glory. But above all, fill I wonder if I may make one brief com- Energy and Job Creation Act. The time them with Your matchless love. ment. until 12:30 is equally divided and con- We pray in Your great Name. Amen. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- trolled between the two leaders or pore. Objection is heard. f their designees. The Senate will recess Mr. KYL. Mr. President, I wish to PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE from 12:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. to allow for make the point that when we do extend The Honorable JON TESTER led the the weekly caucus luncheons. Fol- unemployment benefits, if we do, the Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: lowing the recess, the Senate will pro- Senate needs to weigh in on its ideas I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the ceed to a cloture vote on the motion to about how it ought to be done, for one United States of America, and to the Repub- proceed to H.R. 6049, the Renewable thing. The House-passed bill, which I lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Energy Act. don’t think we want to consider, elimi- indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. f nates the 20-week work requirement f which has been the law now since 1981. UNANIMOUS-CONSENT REQUEST— So theoretically someone could work a APPOINTMENT OF ACTING H.R. 5749 PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE very short period of time and be enti- Mr. REID. Mr. President, my distin- tled to this 13-week extension, some- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The guished friend, the Senator from the thing I don’t think we want to change. clerk will please read a communication State of Arizona, is here. As a result, I As a result, we would like the Senate to the Senate from the President pro am going to propound a unanimous- to weigh in and get it done the right tempore (Mr. BYRD). consent request so as not to cause him way. For that reason, I have to object The assistant legislative clerk read to have to spend any time here he to bringing the House bill up at this the following letter: would not ordinarily have to do. time. U.S. SENATE, The House has passed an unemploy- Mr. REID. Mr. President, we will be PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, ment compensation bill. I am going to willing now to accept that change in Washington, DC, June 17, 2008. To the Senate: show the Senate in a little while that the legislation and pass it. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, we are at 76 filibusters. I am not going Mr. KYL. Mr. President, if I might of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby to go through another one on unem- further address the majority leader

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

S5669

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.000 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5670 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 then, I have several concerns. I high- am sure, may have welcomed yester- from unstable regions and unfriendly lighted one. day’s delay, but we are where we would governments. There is no problem fac- Mr. REID. I say to my friend, this, I have been last night. We need to return ing America that American ingenuity believe, will be in the package we get to a vote on the motion to proceed to cannot handle. Failing to pass this tax from the House, and we will be happy the tax extender bill today, and we will incentive legislation will mean stack- to work with the minority if they feel do that, as has been indicated. ing the deck against innovation. some changes should be made. There The cornerstone of this legislation is The minority is saying we shouldn’t are a number of people on my side who an extension of incentives for busi- pay for these extensions, we should run would agree to this, and maybe there nesses to invest in clean, renewable en- up the red ink. During the last 71⁄2 are other points on which we can agree. ergy. Right now, we reward these years, we have had the master at run- Mr. KYL. I appreciate that. I think innovators who are blazing the trail to ning up the red ink in the White House. there are some issues the Senate wish- a greater, cleaner, more affordable en- We have now almost a $10 trillion def- es to modify in the proposal. The offer ergy future, but we don’t reward them icit. We are saying we should pay for to work together is a fair one, and that very much. These people are creating this legislation. The House has already is how we ought to proceed. hundreds of thousands of jobs. The po- done that. f tential is out there. If we can pass this The setoffs are very simple. One tax legislation, it would mean so much to that does not kick in we have extended TAX EXTENDER LEGISLATION the American economy and the world on a number of occasions in the past. Mr. REID. Mr. President, yesterday ecology, the world environment. The Republicans did this. We want to was a remarkably good day. When I got This is not just the Democrats talk- do it again. We also believe these off- out of law school, I went back to Ne- ing. Somebody I have gotten to know shore shenanigans that are taking vada and thought I would be this great over the years is a man by the name of place in America where they put these golfer. I golfed for 6 months or so, and T. Boone Pickens. As I understand, he phony companies offshore to get tax then realized I was becoming obsessed is from the State of Texas. He has breaks should come to an end. And with the game. Therefore, I decided I proven one thing: He knows how to that is what we have done. Most of it shouldn’t do this. I had a family, and it make money. He has proven he is will- would be directed toward billionaires. took so much time. ing to take chances, and most always These hedge funders have recognized For a number of years, I have lis- his chances turn out good at the bank they had a good deal going, and they tened to my friends talk about how for him. have indicated, with rare exception, much they enjoy golf, and I am sure What T. Boone Pickens has now de- that they think it is a good idea. So it they do. But it has only been in recent cided to do is make money on renew- is not as if we are trying to ramrod years that the American public has fo- able energy. He has done so much in some vicious tax increase to the Amer- cused on golf, and that is because of the State of Texas alone. He, among ican middle class. In fact, that is not Tiger Woods. others, thinks we should pass the legis- the case. I can remember the first time I lation that is so important to give We cannot let this legislation fail, watched this little boy play. They these tax credits to the American en- and the Republicans are going to let it showed him on the late night shows. Of trepreneurs so they will create jobs. fail unless we get cloture on this legis- course, as we all know, it was taped a Here is a chart: Republican filibus- lation. Not only does this legislation lot earlier before his bedtime. This lit- ters and counting, 76. For a long time, do good things for renewable energy tle kid, when he was 3 years old, could we had to keep creating new charts be- and job creation, but it also expands do remarkable things with his golf cause they kept filibustering so much the child tax credit for families of 13 club. That is the way it was through and it got to be a burden. So what we million children; it provides as many his entire career, including at Stanford have done is we put Velcro on this as 30 million homeowners with prop- University. chart. We can peel these babies off. Be- erty tax relief; it helps 4.5 million fam- Over the weekend, we all watched cause the Republicans are so often fili- ilies afford the cost of college with the with attention while Rocco Mediate bustering, we now have a Velcro chart. tuition deduction; it allows millions of was going stroke for stroke with the We hope we don’t have to change this teachers to deduct out-of-pocket class- great Tiger Woods. They tied in regula- too much more, the ‘‘7,’’ or change the room expenses; and it levels the play- tion play. They played an extra 18 ‘‘6.’’ Of course, we changed that a cou- ing field by providing tax relief to peo- holes. It was a tie. Finally, yesterday, ple times last week. The Republicans ple living in States with no income tax it was concluded. All of us had mixed are filibustering what T. Boone Pick- through the State and local sales tax emotions as for whom we were pulling. ens and others want. deduction. Our economy is losing jobs, Everyone likes Tiger Woods because he There are hundreds of thousands of for 6 months now losing jobs, hundreds is so good and so nice, but we all also jobs, millions of jobs out there we of thousands of jobs. In the 8 years rooted for this underdog. could create if we have this tax incen- President Clinton was President, al- The one thing we noted yesterday is tive. They are doing it other places. In most 23 million jobs were created. In this golf tournament took place in San Australia, they are in the process of this administration, it is quite to the Diego. The sun was shining, and it was constructing a solar energy plant. That contrary. The disastrous Bush eco- a beautiful day for golf. That is what one plant will be 10,000 megawatts. nomic policy is the reason we have the commentators kept saying. We They can do that all over Australia. It these job losses, a policy that Repub- were literally stuck in the rain yester- is an Australian company that is heav- lican nominee JOHN MCCAIN wants to day. Those of us who were here last ily involved now in California and preserve. We think this is wrong. night about 4 o’clock saw a violent other parts of the West. With millions of Americans suffering storm. There was lightning, thunder, These tax credit extensions will con- from job loss, home foreclosures, driving rain, and lots of wind. As a re- tinue to encourage the renewable en- record gas, energy, and grocery prices, sult, I spoke with Senator MCCONNELL, ergy industry in States all over the there is no reason on Earth to oppose and we thought it was best to delay the West, States that have wind and Sun, the bill before us now. I spoke with vote. We had people calling saying: I and some States, such as California or someone in New Mexico yesterday. He am stuck in Richmond. One Senator Nevada, have a lot of geothermal. If said his home has dropped in value by was supposed to go to Dulles. She had the Senate does not act to extend these 50 percent. In many places in America, to land in Richmond. Another Senator tax incentives, this research and entre- the value of homes has dropped 25 per- was stuck in Buffalo. We had people preneurship will literally be in jeop- cent. This bill would create hundreds of stuck all over the country. So we did ardy. Thousands of Americans will lose thousands of good jobs here at home, this, and it was the right thing to do. jobs. They are already in the process of lower taxes for American businesses We intended to vote on the motion to losing jobs because the tax credits are and families and lower energy prices. proceed to the Renewable Energy and about to expire. Yesterday, my friend, the Republican Job Creation Act, known as the tax ex- We need an opportunity to move leader, indicated his caucus plans to tender bill. Some on the other side, I away from $140 barrel oil imported oppose this legislation. Why? It seems,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.001 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5671 as I have indicated, Republicans object Agrilectric Power; AIM Computer Solutions, Hydra-Tech Pumps; Hydro Consulting & to paying for these crucial tax cuts by Inc.; Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.; Maintenance Services, Inc.; Hydro Green En- eliminating an existing tax loophole Akeena Solar; Allergan, Inc.; Alliant Energy; ergy, Inc.; i2 Technologies; iControl Incor- Almyra Management Company, Inc.; porated; Imperium Renewables Inc.; Impulse that unfairly allows hedge-fund billion- AltaTerra Ltd.; Alterra Bioenergy; Alticor Dynamics; INDECK Energy Services, Inc.; aires to avoid paying taxes. Even the Inc.; Altria Group, Inc.; AMD; Ameren Cor- Independent Energy Systems; Innovalight; hedge funders themselves realize this poration; Ameresco; American Electric Intel Corporation; Inter-Island Solar Supply; loophole is unfair and is destined to be Power; American Express Company; Amer- International Business Machines Corpora- corrected. Yesterday, hundreds of ican International Group, Inc.; American tion; International Paper; Interstate Power major American corporations sent a Laboratory Products Company, Ltd.; Amer- and Light; Intevac, Inc.; Invenergy LLC; ITC letter to Congress urging that we pass ican Solar Electric, Inc.; and Amgen. Holdings Corp.; Jan Medical; Jasper Design AngioDynamics, Inc.; Apple Inc.; Applied the bill. Automation, Inc.; JDS Uniphase Corpora- Materials, Inc.; Apricus; Archer Daniels Mid- tion; Johnson & Johnson; Johnson Controls; Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- land; Art Technologies, Inc.; AstraZeneca JPMorgan Chase & Co.; Juniper Networks, sent to have printed in the RECORD the Pharmaceuticals LP; AT&T; Ataco Steel Inc.; K&S Tool, Die & Manufacturing, Inc.; letter to which I just referred. Products Corporation; ATAS International, KeyBank; and Keystone Insurers Group. There being no objection, the mate- Inc.; ATEECO, Inc.; Atlantic City Electric; KLA-Tencor Corporation; Kovio, Inc.; rial was ordered to be printed in the Autodesk, Inc.; Avaya Inc.; Avista Corpora- KPMG, LLP; Lam Research Corporation; RECORD, as follows: tion; AWR, Inc.; BAE Systems, Inc.; Ballard The LeverEdge; LibraryWorld, Inc.; Lincoln Power Systems; Bank of America; The Bank Financial; LM Glasfiber; Lockheed Martin; JUNE 16, 2008. of New York Mellon Corporation; Batesville Louis Dreyfus; LSI Corporation; Lynguent, Hon. HARRY REID, Tool & Die, Inc.; Baxa Corporation; Bio- Inc.; Macrovision Solutions Corporation; U.S. Senate, Hart Senate Office Building, Energy Systems, LLC; Biogen Idec; Biomass Mainstream Energy Corporation; Masimo Washington, DC. One, LP; BioSelect Fuels; Bloom Energy Cor- Corporation; Maxim Integrated Products; DEAR SENATOR REID: The undersigned com- poration; Blue Sky Energy, Inc.; BMC Soft- McCormick & Company, Inc.; Mead and panies, representing a broad cross section of ware; Boehringer-Ingelheim; The Boeing Hunt; Medlmmune LLC; MEDRAD; Mega- the U.S. business community and hundreds Company; Bommer Industries, Inc.; Boralex Watt Consulting, Inc.; Merck; Merit Medical of thousands of U.S. jobs, request that the Inc.; Borel Private Bank & Trust Company; Systems, Inc.; Merrill Lynch; METACURE Senate take action during the current work and Boston Scientific. (USA) Inc.; MetricStream, Inc.; Microsoft period to extend tax provisions that expired BP America; Brookfield Renewable Power; Corporation; Minnesota Power; Minnetronix, at the end of 2007 or will expire at the end of Brunswick Corporation; Butler Sun Solu- Inc.; Mitsubishi Electric; Monsanto Com- 2008. tions; CA, Inc.; CAB Incorporated; Cadence pany; Morgan Stanley; Mortenson Construc- The House of Representatives last month Design Systems, Inc.; California Micro De- tion; Motorola; and MSE Power Systems, passed a tax extenders package included in vices; Calpine Corp.; Calypso Medical Tech- Inc. H.R. 6049, the Renewable Energy and Job nologies, Inc.; Caravelle International LLC; Mystic Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; National Creation Act of 2008, which provides a good Cardinal Systems Inc.; Case New Holland City; National Grid; National Semiconductor starting point for Senate consideration. In Inc.; Cassatt Corporation; Caterpillar Inc.; Corporation; Naturener USA, LLC; Nelson April, Senate Finance Committee Chairman Central Vermont Public Service Corpora- Energy; NetApp; NetLogic Microsystems, Baucus and Senator Grassley introduced S. tion; Cepheid Inc.; Certess, Inc.; CH Energy Inc.; Neuronetics, Inc.; NeuroPace, Inc.; New 2886 containing a tax extenders package, in- Group, Inc.; Chelan County Public Utility Leaf Paper; News Corporation; Northrop cluding a critical increase in the Alternative District; the Chubb Corporation; Cisco Sys- Grumman Corporation; NorthWestern En- Simplified Credit to spur R&D jobs in the tems, Inc.; Citigroup, Inc.; Click Bond, Inc.; ergy; Novellus Systems, Inc.; Novo Nordisk United States. Swift action is now needed by CMS Energy Corporation; Coca-Cola Com- Inc.; NuVasive, Inc.; NVIDIA; NXP Semi- the Senate to enact a tax extenders package pany; Coherent, Inc.; Coherex Medical, Inc.; conductors USA Inc.; oDesk Corporation; that will bring significant positive benefits Colmac Energy, Inc.; ConAgra Foods, Inc.; OGE Energy Corporation; Oracle; Organic to the U.S. economy. Conceptus Inc.; Constellation Energy; Con- Fuels; Orthovita, Inc.; Otter Tail Corpora- Important tax provisions, including the struction Navigator, Inc.; and Con-Way. tion; Ovalis, Inc.; Owens Coming; Pacific R&D tax credit and the deduction for state Coulomb Technologies; Covanta; Cummins Winds, Inc.; Palm, Inc.; Palmer College of and local sales taxes, have already expired. Inc.; Cummins-Allison; Cymer, Inc.; Decker Chiropractic; Pepco Holdings, Inc.; Pfizer; Others, including critical renewable energy Energy International; Deere & Company; PG&E Corporation; P-K Tool & Manufac- incentives, the Subpart F active financial Deeya Energy, Inc.; Delmarva Power; Devine turing Company; and Plan it Solar. services and look-through rules, the New Tarbell & Associates, Inc.; DG Fairhaven; PNM Resources, Inc.; Polycom, Inc.; Port- Markets Tax Credit, and the incentive for DIAB; DNV Global Energy Concepts; Domin- land General Electric; PPG Industries; PPL domestic film production, expire at the end ion; The Dow Chemical Company; DTE En- Corporation; Precision Machine & Supply, of this year. Large tax increases would fall ergy; Duke Energy; DxTech LLC; Dynatron- Inc.; Presencia Technology, LLC; Primary on American companies and American work- ics Corp.; E&E Manufacturing Co., Inc.; Power International; Procter & Gamble; ers if the expired and expiring provisions are Eaton Corporation; EDS; Electronics for Im- Progress Energy; Proto Services, Inc.; PSEG; not extended. aging; Eli Lilly and Company; eLynx; Puget Sound Energy; Q-Cells; Rath, Young Failure by Congress to move quickly to ex- Emphasys Medical, Inc.; Empire Broad- and Pignatelli, P.C.; Raytheon Company; tend these important provisions will bring casting Corp.; The Empire District Electric Real Intent, Inc.; REC Solar, Inc.; ReGrid investment in renewable energy and energy Company; Energy Conversion Devices; En- Power; Renegy, Inc.; Renewable Energy efficiency projects to a standstill, make it ergy East Corporation; Energy Innovations; Group (REG); Renewable Power Solutions, more difficult for U.S. companies to invest Energy Unlimited, Inc.; EnFocus Engineer- Inc.; Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Corpora- in critical R&D projects in this country, re- ing Corporation; Engineering DataXpress, tion; RMT—WindConnect; Rockwell Automa- duce private sector investment in business Inc.; and Envision Solar International, Inc. tion; Rockwell Collins; sanofi-aventis U.S. and economic development projects in dis- EPV Solar, Inc.; Eskay Metal Fabricating; Inc.; Sanyo; SCHOTT Solar, Inc.; Seagate tressed areas, and force many U.S.-based fi- EV Solar Products, Inc.; eVent Medical, Inc.; Technology; SEALED AIR Corporation; Se- nancial institutions to suffer a massive tax Exelon Corporation; Extol International, attle Medical Technologies, Inc.; Siemens increase at a time when they can least afford Inc.; Fairchild Semiconductor Corporation; Corporation; Sierra Pacific Resources; and it. FatSpaniel, Inc.; FileMaker, Inc.; First Simpson Investment Company. Failure to act this summer on tax extender Wind; FirstEnergy Corp.; FlowVision, LLC; SkyFuel; Skyline Solar, Inc.; SolarCity; legislation will have significant negative Ford Motor Company; FPL Group; Fredon SolarWorld California; SOLEC; SolFocus; consequences for the U.S. economy. The Corporation; GE Energy; GE Energy Finan- Solvay Pharmaceuticals; Spansion, Inc.; value of the legislation to the U.S. economy cial Services; Genentech; General Electric Specialized Bicycles; Spinal Kinetics, Inc.; and the need to act quickly at this critical Corporation; General Motors Corporation; SpinalMotion, Inc.; St. Jude Medical; Steel- time should be the dominant considerations. Genworth Financial; Gilead Sciences; GMAC, Fab, Inc.; The Stella Group, Ltd.; Stellar So- We look forward to working with you on LLC; Goldman Sachs; Goodrich; GR Spring & lutions, Inc.; Stratex Energy, LLC; Sun Edi- this important legislation and urge action Stamping, Inc.; Grant County Public Utility son; SunEarth, Inc.; SunPower Corporation; during Congress’ June legislative session. District; Great Plains Energy, Inc.; Green Suntech; SV Solar; SVB Financial Group; Sincerely, Earth Fuels, LLC; Green Mountain Power Symantec Corporation; Synopsys, Inc.; A.O. Smith Corporation; Abbott Labora- Corporation; Greylock Partners; Griffin Re- Tagent, Inc.; Teradata Corporation; Tessera, tories; Abengoa Solar; Acciona Energy; alty Advisors; groSolar; Harley-Davidson Inc.; Texas Instruments; Textron, Inc.; Ther- Acclarent, Inc.; Adroit Medical Systems; Ad- Motor Company; and Harris Stratex Net- mal Designs, Inc.; Thermosurgery Tech- vanced Hydro Solutions; Advanced Micro De- works. nologies, Inc.; Third Sun Solar and Wind vices, Inc.; Advantage Capital Partners; AEE Hawaiian Electric Company; HCI Publica- Power, Ltd.; Time Warner; The Timken Com- Solar, Inc.; AES Wind Generation; tions; Hewlett-Packard Company; Hitachi pany; and Toyota. Affymetrix, Inc.; Agilent Technologies, Inc.; Global Storage Technologies; Honeywell; TPI Composites; TransCanada Hydro Agility Design Solutions Inc.; AGP; Hospira, Inc.; Human Genome Sciences; Northeast, Inc.; Transitions Industries;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.003 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5672 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 Trimble Navigation Limited; Truseal Tech- As I said last week, I can’t imagine ator from Illinois, Senator OBAMA, who nologies, Inc.; Tupperware; U.S. Bank; this is a view many other people share, said recently: UniSource Energy Corporation; United Solar certainly not the people of Kentucky, Our dependence on foreign oil strains fam- Ovonic; United Technologies Corp.; who I assure you are not at all inter- ily budgets and it zaps our economy. Oil VentureLoop, Inc.; Verari Systems, Inc.; money pays for the bombs that go off from Verizon; Wachovia Corp.; The Walt Disney ested in getting used to $4-a-gallon gas, however gradual the adjustment. Our Baghdad to Beirut, and the bombast of dic- Company; Watt Stopper/Legrand; Wescor, tators from Caracas to Tehran. Our Nation Inc; Westar Energy, Inc.; Western Renew- Democratic colleagues on the other will not be secure unless we take that lever- ables Group; Whirlpool Corporation; Wind side of the aisle have had a week to age away, and our planet will not be safe un- Capital Group, LLC; Wisconsin Power and demonstrate they do not embrace the less we move decisively toward a clean en- Light; Wood’s Powr-Grip Co., Inc.; World En- ‘‘gradual adjustment’’ philosophy of ergy future. ergy; Wyeth; Xcel Energy, Inc.; Xerox Cor- their nominee. We haven’t heard a poration; Xilinx, Inc.; Xoft, Inc.; and Zim- I would like to say to those commer, Inc. word from any of them. ments from Senator OBAMA: Amen. He Mr. REID. Mr. President, I think it is Maybe they don’t have a problem is exactly right. And so I would ask glaring to note that of these major with $4-a-gallon gasoline either. Maybe him: Why does he and our colleagues companies—hundreds and hundreds of the junior Senator from North Dakota on the other side of the aisle continue them that have signed this letter—not was speaking for all of them when he to oppose domestic energy production a single oil company has signed on. Oil said over the weekend that $4-a-gallon that would reduce our dependency on companies don’t want us to do this leg- gasoline was finally forcing people to oil from the Middle East? islation. They want us to keep being conserve. Telling people whose liveli- As this chart shows, restricted do- beholden to them. But look at the com- hoods depend on getting to and from mestic production in the United States panies that signed onto this legisla- work that they should get used to high sends billions of dollars to the Middle tion: Genetech, Cummins Inc., The gas prices is not an energy policy. East, where we purchase that oil, and Chubb Corporation, Merck, Merrill Supporting a gradual adjustment to to countries such as Venezuela in Lynch, Microsoft, Owens Corning, $4-a-gallon gasoline is not an energy South America. When one of my con- Pfizer, U.S. Bank, Wachovia, Verizon, policy. Americans need an energy pol- stituents back in Texas goes to the gas and Whirlpool Corporation. icy befitting America, and that means station and fills their pickup truck, Scores and scores of other major using the natural resources we have and it costs him $75 to $100, he is won- companies are telling our Republican here at home to bring down prices in dering perhaps where the money goes. colleagues to vote for legislation the the short term, while pursuing a long- Our colleagues would suggest it just way it is written. They know the bill term strategy for energy independence goes to big oil companies. But the fact and they list the number of it. The let- through clean technologies. We can do of the matter is, it is more complicated ter was signed by the ‘‘Who’s Who’’ of both, and we should do both. than that. I think the picture needs to the Fortune 500 companies and many We need more American energy now. be painted and the story needs to be others—titans of American business. That is the short-term solution to the told of exactly what our refusal to de- Hundreds of small companies in addi- current crisis. So, again, I call on our pend more on our own domestic re- tion to that all agree Congress needs to friends to consider this reasonable two- sources, rather than depending, as we act now to extend tax incentives for part solution and to drop their absolut- do increasingly, on foreign sources of clean energy and innovation to provide ist opposition to energy exploration in oil, means to our national security. the American people with desperately America. While taxes, refining, shipping, and needed tax cuts. I yield the floor. marketing add to the cost of retail gasoline, 70 percent of the cost of a gallon We got nine Republicans when we f voted on this last Thursday, and I pub- of gasoline is related to the cost of licly commended them. I hope we get RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME oil—crude oil. When the United States more today. The record should be very The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- imports roughly 60 percent of the oil it clear that this, the 76th filibuster of pore. Under the previous order, the consumes, the real profiteers of our de- the Republican minority, is something leadership time is reserved. pendence are the foreign nations from that is going to cause the further dete- which we import. f rioration of the American economy. We In 2007, the U.S. fuel bill on oil im- want this legislation passed to help MORNING BUSINESS ports was about $330 billion, and some Americans wean themselves from that anticipate that figure will go to $400 The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- billion this year. We should be invest- which is ruining our country economi- pore. Under the previous order, the cally and environmentally. ing more money in America to increase Senate will proceed to a period of our domestic energy production and So I hope we have some people who morning business for up to 1 hour, with will join Boeing, General Electric, Coca creating jobs right here in America as Senators permitted to speak for up to we work to diversify our energy mix Cola, Intel, and other companies I have 10 minutes each, with the time equally mentioned and move forward with this and pursue alternative energy sources. divided and controlled between the two Unfortunately, we send American dol- legislation. It is vitally important for leaders or their designees, with the Re- the American people. lars to foreign nations and energy car- publicans controlling the first half and tels, such as Venezuela and Iran—na- f the majority controlling the final half. tions that openly condemn the United RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- States and the principles for which we LEADER pore. The Senator from Texas. stand and seek to undermine our na- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask tional interests at every turn. pore. The Republican leader is recog- unanimous consent that the 30 minutes Last year, in Venezuela alone, U.S. nized. allotted to our side of the aisle for consumers spent an estimated $30 bil- morning business be divided equally f lion on oil imports. We are all familiar between myself and the distinguished with President Hugo Chavez and his HIGH GAS PRICES Senator from Iowa, Mr. GRASSLEY. thinly veiled threats and outlandish at- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, it The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- tacks on our country. But the money has been more than a week since the pore. Without objection, it is so or- that is sent to Venezuela does not just Democratic nominee for President, the dered. empower the absurd talk of one man, it junior Senator from Illinois, responded f is helping him assemble a substantial to high gas prices by saying it wasn’t military arsenal. high gas prices he minded but the fact GAS PRICES AND NATIONAL These pictures show some of the that people didn’t have time to get SECURITY things Hugo Chavez is doing with the used to them. In his words, he would Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I wish money we are sending him as we buy have preferred a ‘‘gradual adjustment’’ to begin my remarks this morning by crude oil: fighter aircraft, submarines, to a sudden jolt. quoting the distinguished junior Sen- Kalashnikov assault rifles, air defense

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.006 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5673 batteries. As a matter of fact, Russia Iran is continuing its efforts to de- the more money we ship overseas and has agreed to actually create a factory velop nuclear technology with the ob- the more likely it is to empower the in Venezuela for the production of both vious goal of producing nuclear weap- threatening actions of some of Amer- AK–103 assault rifles, and 7.62-millions. The last thing we need to do is to ica’s staunchest enemies. meter ammunition at a cost in excess provide a steady stream of money to a While Congress agrees about the im- of $500 billion. man who openly pledges to ‘‘wipe Israel portance of reducing our Nation’s de- In 2006 alone, Venezuela entered into off the map’’ and promises that the pendence on foreign sources of oil—in- multiple agreements with Russia for United States, along with Israel, ‘‘will deed, that is what Senator OBAMA said the purchase of numerous advanced soon be destroyed.’’ in the quotation I read at the start— Russian-made weapon systems. These Aside from Iran’s very troubling nu- Congress has not yet acted in a way transactions included, as I have de- clear ambitions, U.S. military com- consistent with those expressed con- picted on this chart, these 24 modern manders have seen very clear evidence cerns or in a way which would improve fighter-bomber aircraft at a price of of Iranian involvement of Iraq. We not only our economic security but our more than $1 billion, numerous attack have heard from General Petraeus and national security as well. I appreciate and transport helicopters at the price Ambassador Crocker about Iran’s at- the determination of Congress to pur- of $700 million, and an arsenal of these tempts to destabilize Iraq. What is sue and encourage alternative energy modern Kalashnikov assault rifles, worse, we have heard reports of the Ira- sources and increased energy effi- which I showed a moment ago. nians training militias and ‘‘special ciency—and these energy policies will Last week, Venezuela conducted a groups’’ in Iraq, both of whom have serve us well into the future—but what preliminarily agreement for its Navy been a major source of violence and in- we must realize is that oil and gas is to buy three Russian-made, improved stability there. the bridge to that future. It is not eco- Kilo patrol submarines—depicted here. Even more concerning, we have seen nomically responsible to bypass solu- This year, Venezuela accepted delivery reports that Iran has been providing tions that will increase energy supply of the first of several batteries of Rus- advanced improvised explosive devices and help bring down the price of gas at sian-made Tor-M1 air defense systems, called explosively formed penetrators the pump. Americans are spending an depicted on this chart. that have been and continue to be used additional $1,400 on energy costs just In 2005, Venezuela ordered nine Chi- to kill and injure American soldiers in this last year, and the Department of nese-made mobile air radar systems, Iraq. As I have said, Iran has been Defense—perhaps the largest consumer valued at $150 million. Earlier this linked to explosively formed of oil and gas in the country—spent year, the Venezuelan Government or- penetrators used to kill American $12.6 billion on fuel just last year. dered six Austrian-made, multipurpose troops, and while these penetrators We cannot afford to keep filling the surveillance aircraft. make up only a small percentage of the coffers of hostile, oil-rich nations such But we should not delude ourselves overall number of IEDs in Iraq, they as Iran and Venezuela while we wait into thinking that money only goes to generate a disproportionate share of for alternative fuels to become a sub- the buildup of the Venezuelan military. American casualties. stantial and reliable source for our en- Colombia—of course, right next door to The short side of this story is that ergy needs. We need a comprehensive Venezuela in South America—our our dependence on foreign oil is and balanced energy policy that in- strongest U.S. ally in Latin America, bankrolling deadly weapons. The cludes increased American energy pro- tells us Hugo Chavez has been sup- money we continue to send to the Mid- duction. We have raised fuel-efficiency porting the FARC, a narcoterrorist or- dle East and to Venezuela does nothing standards, we have implemented a re- ganization, and enabling attacks on but enrich or enemies. Why in the newable fuels standard, we supported the people of Colombia. In fact, a world, then, would we deny ourselves tax incentives for wind, solar, biomass, laptop recently captured from a ter- access to the very natural resources and energy efficiency appliances. Now rorist leader demonstrates Hugo that would allow us to become less de- we need to grow our domestic energy Chavez’s close ties with the FARC. pendent? production by tapping into America’s The situation has prompted some in While Congress may not get it, it is proven oil and gas reserves. Congress to call for Venezuela to be clear that the American people get it. If we can begin to produce more en- put on our designated ‘‘state sponsors Rasmussen has just come out of the ergy here at home, then we can begin of terrorism’’ list. Clearly, the actions field with a new poll that says that 67 to ease our minds about how rogue states, such as Venezuela and Iran, will of Hugo Chavez and his accelerated percent of the respondents support off- be using those dollars to threaten us. militarization of Venezuela poses a sig- shore drilling in America and 64 per- We have all said on numerous occa- nificant threat to the stability of Latin cent expect that it will lower gasoline sions that energy security is national America and to the United States be- prices. That is two-thirds of the re- security, but I fear many of us have cause of its close proximity to our spondents who believe offshore drilling failed to realize exactly what that country. should be allowed. Congress, of course, means. We need to recognize that our It doesn’t just stop there. As we is the major impediment, having inaction is not only raising the burden know, President Mahmud Ahmadinejad passed moratoria against production of on American families, it is growing ar- in Iran is enjoying all the money oil from the Outer Continental Shelf mies and weapons that may one day be America is sending to him and other since the early 1980s. Congress is the used against us. In the case of Iran, countries when they purchase oil, with problem, and Congress needs to get out that money is already being used a price tag now of $135 a barrel. We of the way and allow America to do against our troops in Iraq through can’t afford to forget that oil is a glob- what it does best, and that is to try to these explosively formed penetrators al commodity used by every country achieve less dependence on imported that have injured and literally killed throughout the world, so money spent oil from our enemies. American citizens. on oil imports from the Middle East or The short version of this story is that This is not an issue we can afford to anywhere benefits Iran. Iran is con- our dependence on foreign oil is take lightly. We all need to work to- tinuing its effort to develop nuclear bankrolling deadly weapons that are gether to expand American oil produc- technology, depicted at these com- being used against our troops and even tion in order to decrease the profits of pounds in Bushehr and Natanz, de- more advanced weapons systems that sworn enemies of the United States and picted on these maps. could one day be turned on us or our al- limit their militarization. It is clear that Iran has nuclear am- lies—countries such as Colombia. Soar- I yield the floor. bitions to build nuclear weapons to ing gas prices are not just a problem The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- dominate the Middle East and, frankly, for the American consumer, they are a pore. The Senator from Iowa is recog- represents a threat to world peace. So problem for the American soldier, sail- nized. money spent on oil imports from the or, airman, and marine. They are a Mr. GRASSLEY. May I ask how Middle East or anywhere actually ben- problem for our national security. The much time is left on this side? efits Iran, and they use that money to longer we sit idle and do nothing to in- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- pursue their nuclear ambitions. crease our domestic energy production, pore. There is 15 minutes 45 seconds.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.004 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5674 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 TAX EXTENDERS other side is that it is the Senate Re- terday. Many taxpayers who were not Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I publicans who are represented by Bill subject to the AMT last year but are hope my colleagues had a chance to lis- on this chart, in that the Democrats now caught this year should have filed ten to the distinguished Democratic want people like me to be put through this form but do not know they are leader talk about the tax bill vote com- the same actions on the same issues supposed to. It is a tax that these 23 ing up and about Republican filibus- until we do what the other side thinks million, or maybe a part of that 23 mil- ters. I wish to tell the other side of the is the right thing. However, that think- lion, do not pay because they never had story. ing is mistaken. I am not sure how to pay it before. Under current law As there are 76, according to their much resemblance there is, but Bill those individuals are subject to pen- count, filibusters, presumably Repub- represents the Democratic leadership. alty. lican, what defines a filibuster around Why? Because the majority sets the I made this point on several occa- here is when you file a cloture motion. schedule for the Senate. When Repub- sions last year when a quarterly esti- If people have a desire to talk a few licans are in the majority, we set the mated tax return was due. I hope I do hours on a bill, maybe even a few min- schedule. Despite having slogged not get the same reaction now as I did utes on a bill, and immediately a clo- through this very same issue several every time I talked about the esti- ture motion is slapped in, then that de- times over the past few years, the mated tax payments last year, because fines a filibuster. Democratic leadership still insists on that response was silence. That doesn’t define a filibuster. If it beating the same dead horse—or maybe I know many will say that Congress does, then the Democrats, by not let- in this case the same dead groundhog. will act, but that is not good enough. ting the Senate work its will, have in a As anyone familiar with this fine The American people should no more sense shut off the purpose of the Sen- film knows—the film called ‘‘Ground- accept an IOU from Congress than the ate, which is, of course, to thoroughly hog Day’’—this chart depicts Bill and IRS would accept an IOU from the tax- debate what passed the other body. Phil driving a truck moments before it payer. The right thing to do now is to Tax bills can only start in the other goes over the cliff. In a few moments, vote ‘‘no’’ on this cloture motion. The body, and they go through there in 2 or the Democratic leadership is going to sooner we can get the Democratic lead- 3 hours. If they are going to be thor- drive this Chamber over the same cliff ership to stop driving the Bill-and-Phil oughly debated, they have to be de- we went over last Tuesday. The vote, truck over the cliff, the sooner we can bated here. I think it is a little dis- again, is one I predict will fail, and we get to work on this extenders bill. That bill, unlike the bill before us ingenuous to talk about a filibuster on will be exactly where we were before. now, will pass both Houses of Congress a tax bill when the definition of a fili- Going back to the ‘‘Groundhog Day’’ and will be signed by the President. buster is when a cloture motion is example, the Democratic leadership is This law change will protect additional filed. It is filed by the majority party, stuck in the part of the film where Bill families from being captured by the not by the minority party. Murray relives the same day because AMT. Right now the Democratic lead- Over the past few years, anyone who he is doing the wrong things and re- ership is in the driver’s seat. You see, has observed the workings of Congress fuses to change behavior. we have the Democratic leadership in has probably discovered that we spend I would rather not see this body go the driver’s seat. As I have said of Bill a lot of time every year wrestling over over the cliff. But what really concerns and Phil in the past, I hope eventually what are called tax extenders—prob- me is that the Democratic leadership is they decide to drive responsibly. Do ably tax policy that for the most part not alone. In the back of his truck are not do what Bill and Phil do, go over has been on the books for decades, one roughly 140 million families and indi- the cliff all of the time. Vote ‘‘no’’ on or two decades, and then sunsets, and viduals who file tax returns. The ex- the motion to proceed, put the Senate tenders affect millions of taxpayers. then if you are going to keep that pol- back on a path to a real AMT fix and Congress should have learned from the icy in place—in other words, keep the also pass the extenders bill so it be- experience we had less than 6 months existing tax policy—they must be ex- comes law. tended. We call them tax extenders. ago, in December. Waiting until the We have been having a lot of discus- Popular provisions in the Internal Rev- end of the year to solve these problems sion over whether these extensions of enue Code, then, are set to expire every creates problems instead for agencies the expiring tax relief provisions might year or two unless Congress acts. Of like the IRS. It is a problem for tax- be offset with tax increases. We heard course, if Congress doesn’t act, then payers who are not getting back their the distinguished Democratic leader taxes go up. refunds soon enough. If the Democratic say they should, because it might In the past, I have compared this leadership cares about those millions make the deficit go up otherwise. constant repetition to a film called of taxpayers, they will slow this truck My position is if you extend policy ‘‘Groundhog Day,’’ staring Bill Murray, down. They will not drive over the that has been in place for a couple dec- where Bill Murray’s character relives cliff. They will stop the truck, they ades continuing existing tax policy, the same day over and over again. I will work with the Senate—in the bi- you are not making the deficit bigger. have a chart showing a scene from that partisan way that is the only way to You would only do that if you in- classic and very enlightening film. It get things done in the Senate—to fi- creased or came up with some new tax almost seems ironic that it would be nally get this bill passed, a bill that policy. appropriate on so many occasions for will be signed into law. I am not going to rehash all the ele- me to talk about a movie that itself is Included in those roughly 140 million ments of that debate again. The dif- about repetition, but the repetitive ac- families and individuals in the back of ference between Republicans and tions of the Democratic majority and the truck are around 24 million tax- Democrats on this point is important. its leadership make it too hard to re- payers who are now subject to the The Democrats have their view, the sist bringing Bill and Phil down here crushing alternative minimum tax. We Republicans have our view. That is the again to show you and remind you need to extend the AMT exemption for way democracy works. But here is why what this body, the Senate, goes middle-income taxpayers. Right now, this is a different point of view. It is through periodically. around 24 million of those middle-in- important because the hurdle to a bi- Less than a week ago, the Senate, by come families are liable for the AMT partisan bill signed by the President on a vote of 50 to 44, rejected a motion to because Congress has not acted to pro- the AMT patch and extenders will not invoke cloture on a motion to proceed tect them for the year we are in, 2008. happen unless we get the differences to the House bill, H.R. 6049, the Renew- The House bill that is the subject of worked out. able Energy and Job Creation Act. In the upcoming cloture vote does noth- There is a group of so-called conserv- just a few moments we are going to re- ing to protect those taxpayers, nothing ative Democrats in the House of Rep- peat that exact same vote. Why? There on the AMT. resentatives who are called Blue Dogs. does not seem to be a discernible rea- Many of those families who make es- I want to say that I respect the Blue son. timated payments are hopefully famil- Dogs’ call for fiscal discipline. It is Getting back to Bill and Phil driving iar with the form 1040–ES for the sec- critically important in this era of def- the truck, I bet the thinking on the ond quarter of 2008. That was due yes- icit spending.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.006 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5675 Revenues are not the problem. One tax relief expire. If that is true, then it Food prices are high. Consumers are would think from the Democratic lead- ought to be easier to let undefined fu- able to afford fewer groceries at the su- ership that we do not tax people ture spending expire. permarket and restaurants are being enough so we tax people more. In fact, After meeting the dollar amount in squeezed by food costs. Food prices we are on a revenue path that is above the spending cut challenge, some in the across the country spiked by more the historic average in terms of Fed- Blue Dog coalition still complained. than 4 percent in 2007, the biggest jump eral revenue as a share of gross na- They said we had to define the spend- in 17 years, and they are expected to tional product. ing to be cut. That’s a bit curious be- escalate another 6 percent this year, So when the Blue Dogs in the House cause the spending is future non-de- though some items, including eggs and of Representatives bark about deficit fense discretionary spending. Over the milk, have gone up much more. So we reduction, we on this side will howl next 10 years, appropriators will spend are not talking about luxury items, we with them. We have Huckleberry this new extra money in future appro- are talking about the basics to survive. Hound here to illustrate what I am priations laws. Those bills have not They are getting more and more expen- talking about. The Blue Dogs continue been written yet. So, I don’t know how sive as more and more people are not to bite only on the tax side. I respond with any more specificity. able to find adequate work. When it comes to spending cuts, we I’ve provided the amount and the The price of gasoline has risen 35 per- do not hear much more than a whimper source of the funds. cent from a year ago, when it averaged out of the Blue Dogs. They do not want The last time I checked, a dollar of approximately $3. In Rhode Island, it spending cuts, they want higher taxes. spending cuts is the same as a dollar of now costs $4.11, on average, for a gallon We agree with them on fiscal responsi- forgone revenue. If we apply that basic of regular unleaded, making it very dif- bility, but higher taxes do not bring math to taxes and spending, then we ficult for working families simply to fiscal responsibility. Higher taxes bring will achieve fiscal discipline. get to school, to get to their job, and to an excuse for Congress to spend more I yield the floor. get around the State. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- money. The gross domestic product, the Na- Spending cuts are the way to get pore. The Senator from Rhode Island is tion’s total output of goods and serv- taxes down. In fact, when I hear from recognized. ices, the measure of the overall eco- my constituents, they do not think the f nomic activity of the country, in- American people are undertaxed, they EXTENDING UNEMPLOYMENT creased at a mere .9 percent in the first think the American people or the Con- BENEFITS quarter of 2008, which is nearly the gress overspend. Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise same as the fourth quarter of last year. On our side, that tax-hike hungry dog today to talk about the importance of This stagnant growth obviously is won’t hunt. We have seen the story of extending unemployment insurance highly correlated with the rising unem- this Huckleberry Hound chart play out benefits to workers whose regular ben- ployment. in recent legislation. On the additional efits ran out before they could get a In April, consumer credit borrowing GI education benefits, the Blue Dogs new job. rose $8.9 billion for the month to $2.56 held out for a tax increase to offset the As we know, the labor market is trillion. This is significantly higher new spending. But when the pressure weak. The unemployment rate has than economists forecast. This means from their political leadership got too jumped to 5.5 percent in April from 5 increasingly that Americans are going hot, that objection is now history. percent in March. That is an extraor- to their credit cards to get by, and this We have another popular new spend- dinary jump. This is the largest single is a timebomb ready to explode in our ing proposal, extension of unemploy- month spike in 22 years and the high- economy. ment benefits. The Blue Dogs said no est level in 3.5 years. More American families are being offset was required because it is ‘‘tem- In addition, the Labor Department’s overwhelmed by debt. More and more porary spending.’’ alternative unemployment rate, a families are forced, because they do Now we have an AMT fix and we have measure that includes people who want not have adequate jobs, adequate wages the extenders bill before us. Because it to work but who are discouraged from to face the rising cost of gasoline and is current law tax relief, the Blue Dogs actively seeking employment because food, to take out the plastic. That can are insisting on tax increases on other they cannot find full-time jobs, only last a certain amount of time. taxpayers. Such inconsistency I do not reached 9.7 percent in May. This latter This is a looming problem that we have understand. As with GI benefit pack- statistic might be more accurate with to recognize. ages, we will meet the Blue Dogs’ chal- what has actually happened in neigh- Similarly, there is speculation that lenge. We will put our money where borhoods across America. the impact of the foreclosure crisis will our mouth is. For Rhode Islanders, the situation is continue to spread. In my home State The budget resolution, written by the among the worst in the Nation. The of Rhode Island, we have the highest Democratic majority and supported by number of unemployed Rhode Islanders foreclosure rate in New England. And the Blue Dogs, contains $300 billion in has risen to approximately 35,000, the outlook is just as bleak. A recent nondiscretionary appropriations. This which has been trending upward and is Credit Suisse report noted that fore- is brand new extra spending not subject the highest since June 1994. Indeed, 6.1 closures could impact about 6.5 million to pay-go. The AMT patch in the ex- percent are jobless right now, a figure loans by 2012, meaning that nearly 13 tender bill is a $110 billion package. which has remained unchanged over percent of residential borrowers could After being challenged by the Blue Dog the past 2 months. be put out of their homes; 13 percent of Democrats to stand up for spending This is the fourth highest unemploy- homeowners in America are facing the cuts, I suggested we take one-fifth of ment rate in the United States, and the prospect within the next few years of what they are going to increase spend- highest rate in Rhode Island since Au- losing their homes. That is a startling ing by, and it will pay for these new gust 1995, more than 12 years ago. It is and unacceptable projection. spending programs. also critical to point out that almost Given that the economic situation is I would put them to a challenge of half, 41 percent of Rhode Islanders un- significantly harsher now than the not increasing taxes every time to re- employed in January, February and start of the last recession, the need to duce the deficit, but reduce expendi- March, exhausted their benefits, which extend unemployment benefits is clear. tures to be consistent. Instead of rais- is more than any other State in New In doing so, we can start to stimulate ing taxes, I said let’s look at the new England. Unfortunately, other eco- the economy. We have virtually no non-defense discretionary spending nomic indicators are equally discour- growth, we have a foreclosure crisis built into the budget. We could let that aging. Economists think inflation is with escalating gasoline and food new undefined future spending expire here to stay, and it is likely to get prices. If we want to get this country by an amount necessary to make that worse. We have received a very poor in- moving again, we have got to stimulate AMT patch and extenders bill deficit flation number this morning which the economy. We tried with the rebates neutral. Many on the other side say it suggests that the forecasts of econo- a few months ago; that has not proved is harmless to let defined current law mists are sadly becoming true. effective. Unemployment insurance

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.007 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5676 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 benefits have a very high return on The sad status quo is not very good. ideological preconception. We should their investment. It generates approxi- Look at the number of jobs this econ- just move forward. mately $1.64 in gross domestic product omy has lost this year: 324,000. That is I yield the floor. for every dollar we put in, and that probably 1 million people, given that so The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- makes sense. many of them are family members and ator from Rhode Island. Individuals receiving these benefits breadwinners; 1 million people who had Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, are going to go right to the store, they jobs or had loved ones who had jobs after 7 long years of the Bush adminis- are going to fuel their cars, they are last year and don’t have them today. tration, our country’s economy is in going to buy food, they are going to try We refuse to give them the barest of the worst condition it has been in dec- to take care of their children. This lifelines, an extension of unemploy- ades. In my State of Rhode Island this money is going right back in the econ- ment insurance? That is disgraceful. week, a gallon of gas cost $4.11. Gro- omy. It is going to stimulate 64 cents Let me talk about who these people cery bills are up. Utility bills are up. more than we invest. are because each one is an individual. Affordable housing is scarce. Many I am disappointed that the adminis- How about Vincent DiRoma, former homes are in foreclosure. Health care tration has released a Statement of Ad- senior engineer for Kodak? Not only costs remain high. As a blistering hot ministration Policy stating that it does he have a wife and three children, summer approaches, there seems to be strongly opposes the bipartisan meas- he also supports his elderly mother no end in sight. These are difficult ure overwhelmingly passed by the who relies on Social Security to get by. times for many families. But for mil- House of Representatives last week. Vincent is currently training for a new lions of Americans who are looking for I am disappointed that the minority career. We all know Kodak has laid off a job today, the challenges seem al- is unwilling to enact this meaningful most insurmountable. Today, Senate legislation before us today. This would thousands and thousands in the Roch- ester area, highly qualified people, peo- Republicans showed yet again that make a positive difference for America. they are more loyal to the failed eco- I think it is reckless and irresponsible. ple with tremendous work ethic who don’t want to or can’t leave the Roch- nomic policies of President Bush than Unfortunately, it is characteristic of to Americans who right now need our this administration that they would ester area. Vincent is now training for a new career. He is the kind of Amer- help. Majority Leader REID and Senate oppose unemployment benefits for Democrats pushed for quick passage of ican we all appreciate. He is not sitting Americans while they continue to ex- legislation to extend unemployment down and cursing the darkness. He is hort us to spend billions of dollars in benefits. But Senate Republicans said trying to make his situation better. Iraq and Afghanistan. The contrast no, even though last month the na- His old job doesn’t exist. An extension could not be more stark and, I think, tional unemployment rate saw its big- of his unemployment insurance will more condemning of this administra- gest 1-month increase in over 20 years, allow him time to complete the train- tion. reaching a 4-year high of 5.5 percent. I believe we have to pass this legisla- ing and find a new job to support his In Rhode Island, things were a bit tion. We have to face it. And for my extended family which, including him- worse. Last month the unemployment constituents in Rhode Island, it would self, is six people. rate in our ocean State exceeded 6 per- be extremely useful. Why are we telling Vincent DiRoma cent. That is one of the highest in the According to the Center for Budget no? Why are we telling the other hun- country. These men and women are Policy Priorities, we have done this, we dreds of thousands like Vincent no? being forced to deal with both the deep have extended benefits seven times That is so important. Again, we just disappointment of losing their jobs and over the past half century. They have block it. the challenge of trying to make ends provided much needed relief to work- Economists, liberal and conservative, meet for their families in an economy ers. This is not something novel and will tell us, when an economy is tee- that is in recession. unique. This is something we have done tering on the edge of a recession, or, as One of these people is Brian Perry. and we should do. We cannot afford to many of us think, in recession, the best Brian lives in East Providence, RI. He delay extending these benefits any way to get money into that economy is wrote me earlier this month to ask longer. People are struggling through- unemployment benefits. The people about the possibility of extending un- out this Nation. It is our responsibility who get them spend it. A tax cut is employment benefits. Brian had been a to respond to their needs, to give them often saved. That is not a bad thing, law clerk at a firm in downtown Provi- a chance, to keep them afloat in a very but it doesn’t mainline money into the dence, but he has been unemployed stormy economic sea. economy the way unemployment bene- I urge the immediate passage of these since January 11. fits do. The money is sent out quickly. Since January 11, he has applied un- unemployment benefits. There is an existing system so we don’t I yield the floor. successfully for more than 65 jobs. One have to set up a whole new program. of those positions had more than 300 The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- In the past, there have been bipar- pore. The Senator from New York is applicants. Brian is receiving unem- tisan moves to extend unemployment recognized. ployment insurance, but it is not Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I too insurance when the economy heads enough. Because he couldn’t afford to rise to support extension in unemploy- south. Only in this new Congress—this pay both his mortgage and his monthly ment benefits, and express the pro- ‘‘no, no, no’’ Congress, where Repub- COBRA payments, Brian has been found regret I and so many others, not licans block everything almost instinc- without health insurance since the end only in this Chamber but throughout tively, atavistically—do we not get of January. America, are having that our minority this kind of extension. In the United States of America, a colleagues blocked the attempt to Obviously, there is an attempt to put working man trying to find a job with- move this bill forward this morning. this in the supplemental bill. We will out health insurance. There are two reasons to do this. One try to do that, but it should pass like He says it has become more and more is the individual and the humane, to that. There should not be a single op- difficult just to afford groceries, and help the people who need help. Of ponent to Vincent DiRoma and the some nights he goes to bed hungry. He course, that is first and foremost. But other 323,999 people and families who could go to a food pantry, of course, the second is to give a real shot in the have lost their jobs. but he has not yet because he thinks arm to the economy. There is no better For the sake of humanity, those who there are too many people who are way when an economy is in recession, are unemployed such as Vincent and worse off than he is. Brian’s unemploy- going slow, to give it a shot in the arm need the help, and for the sake of our ment benefits expire at the end of July. than unemployment benefits. They are economy, I urge colleagues on the People such as Brian need our help, better than tax cuts, better than any other side of the aisle to reconsider. and they need it now. What are we here long-term spending program. The Again, there is no better way—none— for, if not to help our fellow Americans economists have shown that. to get the economy moving than an ex- at times such as this? The Emergency Our colleagues on the other side of tension of unemployment benefits. It is Extended Unemployment Compensa- the aisle continue to say no to just something we should move to quickly, tion Act would help. It would tempo- about everything. without partisan wrangling, without rarily extend unemployment benefits

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.008 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5677 13 weeks beyond the ordinary 26-week geothermal, biomass, and landfill gas. The first commercial wind farm in eligibility period. In States such as Wind power, especially in a State such Montana started operating in 2005 in Rhode Island, where people have been as Montana and across the country, is Wheatland County. Wheatland County hardest hit, jobless workers would re- critically important, but we have a has a population of about 2,000 people ceive an additional 13 weeks of unem- long way to go before renewable and a median household income of ployment compensation. This critical sources of energy can have the full im- about $24,000 a year. In 2007, the wind measure was modeled after a bill intro- pact on lowering energy costs and farm paid over half a million dollars in duced in January by Senator TED KEN- fighting climate change. That is why property taxes to State and local gov- NEDY, a true champion of working these tax credits are so very impor- ernments. That included nearly a quar- Americans. It passed the House of Rep- tant. ter of a million dollars to the local resentatives last week with a strong bi- Last year the United States installed school district. It brought in jobs and partisan vote. more than 52 hundred megawatts of royalty revenue for landowners. As my colleagues know, unemploy- wind power, enough to power a million Wheatland County, as you can tell by ment insurance is just that—insurance. and a half households for an entire the name, is a farming, agricultural Millions of Americans go out pounding year. Put another way, if the popu- county. Folks there have spent the last the pavement each and every day look- lation—every man, woman, and child century cursing the wind. Today, the ing for work to support themselves and in Montana and Wyoming—each had local Chamber of Commerce calls their families. They find work, they their own house, there would be a mil- Wheatland County the Wind Energy work hard, and they earn their pay- lion and a half homes. Capital of the United States. Next checks. As part of an employee’s com- All that wind power was about a $9 weekend, Wheatland County is putting pensation, employers pay into the un- billion investment into the economy. on its first Festival of the Wind. Their employment insurance system so that Wind now powers over 4.5 million slogan is to ‘‘honor the wind, celebrate workers will be covered if they lose homes in the United States. At this our community, and move forward to a their jobs through no fault of their rate, the United States will overtake vital future.’’ own. Unemployment benefits help Germany as the world’s leader in wind With high gas and food prices, wind hard-working men and women in this power next year, but only if we extend power is not just a mirage on the hori- terrible Bush economy cover bills and this tax credit. Unfortunately, every- zon. In fact, we have only skimmed the living expenses while they search for a thing grinds to a halt if the tax credits surface of our potential. To put things new job. The Emergency Extended Un- are not extended. in perspective, Montana produces employment Compensation Act could Congress has let these tax credits about 150 megawatts of wind-generated help over 3 million Americans pay the lapse before. Each time we have seen electricity. Montana is almost exactly mortgage or the rent or feed their fam- growth in the renewable energy indus- the same size as Germany. Germany ilies, as they continue to navigate a try flatline. This chart shows exactly has about 22,000 megawatts of wind perilous job market. In Rhode Island what happens when we refuse to extend power. The entire United States has alone, there are more than 18,000 people the tax credits. Over the last 9 or 10 only 16,000 megawatts. Montana will in need of a job, and their benefits ei- years, you can see where the high bars double its wind production this year. ther already have or will soon run out. are, where wind energy megawatts Next year, we hope to have a new wind I have heard the argument that peo- have gone on. That is with the tax energy transmission line between Mon- ple would not be motivated to find credits. When we failed to extend tax tana and Alberta, and we will double it work if we extend this benefit; that credits, we see virtually no growth in again. But we need that production tax they need this little spur to get off the wind energy. credit in place, not only for next year couch and out into the workforce. In I know a lot of my colleagues will be but well into the future. my experience, this is a ridiculous ar- voting to extend these credits by year’s Already this year, things have start- gument, a demeaning argument, one end, but waiting until the last minute ed to slow as developers anxiously that is completely disengaged from the is just as bad as letting them expire. watch Congress. One wind farm cur- day-to-day experience of regular Rhode Right now wind developers are working rently under construction is racing the Islanders, from ordinary Americans, a out financing for future projects. They clock to start selling power before true beltway special of an argument. cannot move these projects forward year’s end. Developers are scrambling This is a hard-working country, and it without certainty. That means projects to take advantage of the production is in tough economic times. Good peo- that are starting right now will stall if tax credit. Their plans for several other ple are hurting. We should gather to- we don’t re-up these tax credits today. wind farms are on hold until the pro- gether around this legislation, support We have heard a lot for the last few duction tax credit is passed here. them as they try to get back into the months about energy costs and climate I cannot overstate the significance of workforce, and pass this piece of legis- change. Renewable energy is attractive the production tax credit to my State lation. because it can help us get a handle on of Montana and throughout rural I yield the floor and suggest the ab- both problems. Wind is getting more America for economic development. sence of a quorum. and more affordable and more efficient But our country cannot afford to let it The PRESIDING OFFICER. The each year, especially as fossil fuel costs lapse because of climate change and be- clerk will call the roll. go up. The wind power capacity added cause of high energy costs. The assistant legislative clerk pro- last year accounted for 30 percent of all High costs might be an underesti- ceeded to call the roll. new energy brought online. Because of mate. I just read yesterday that com- Mr. TESTER. I ask unanimous con- the wind, we are keeping 28 million panies are raising power prices to the sent that the order for the quorum call tons of carbon dioxide out of the air. tune of 29 percent. That is 29 percent. be rescinded. That is 28 million tons. There is no That means ordinary folks all across The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. more efficient way to help fight cli- this country are going to have to make WHITEHOUSE). Without objection, it is mate change than by supporting the some very difficult decisions as they so ordered. tax credits that drive renewable en- sit around their kitchen tables. We f ergy. It is just common sense. cannot afford to sit back and just talk Last month, the Department of En- about it. It is time to get to work, and PRODUCTION TAX CREDITS ergy reported that the United States the work starts today by passing this Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I rise to can get 20 percent of its power from extension, not by waiting until the end emphasize the importance of extending wind by the year 2030, but we need to of the year. the production tax credits for renew- quit talking about wind power and get That is why I appreciate the leader- able energy in the tax package we are some more turbines off the ground and ship of Senator BAUCUS on continuing voting on today at 2:15. These tax cred- into the air. Wind power means real to bring this measure forward. I believe its have helped create a strong and dollars and cents and real jobs and eco- that passing an extension now will growing renewable energy industry, nomic development, especially for send a good signal to business that not only for wind power but also for rural America. Congress is serious about wind power.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.009 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5678 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 Congress can invest in renewable en- and of the political gamesmanship that to the enormous tragedy and Congress ergy that will help control energy costs feeds that understandable frustration. responded, representing the American and fight climate change. I urge my We are going to have a vote coming people. One of the most important colleagues once again to support this up later today on the Democratic tax things the American people funded, one measure and to vote yes and pass it extenders bill. This is a pure political of the most important things Congress today. exercise and a pure waste of time. passed, was help for these folks I am Mr. President, I yield the floor and Whether you are for it or against it, describing who suffered uninsured suggest the absence of a quorum. whether you like most provisions in it losses. In Louisiana, it became known The PRESIDING OFFICER. The or not, one thing is perfectly clear: as the Road Home Program. In Mis- clerk will call the roll. This Democratic partisan bill is going sissippi, there was a similar program The legislative clerk proceeded to nowhere. It doesn’t have the support in called the Housing Assistance Pro- call the roll. the Senate. In addition to that, there is gram—grants, help from the American Mr. VITTER. Mr. President, I ask a veto threat—a very crystal-clear veto taxpayers to help cover uninsured unanimous consent that the order for threat—from President Bush. That is losses. the quorum call be rescinded. for substantive reasons. There are sig- So what is the problem? The problem The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without nificant objections to the bill—I share is that under present Federal law, the objection, it is so ordered. most of them—with what is included in IRS says that you have to add that Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, are we this package, things such as a huge check many of these folks got in 2007 out of the quorum call? earmark to build a train in New York, to their income and pay taxes on it be- The PRESIDING OFFICER. We are a new tax break for trial lawyers, ex- cause under present Federal law that is out of the quorum call. pansion of the Davis-Bacon Act, and taxable income. If it was simply a mat- Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I ask $55 billion of taxes. ter of counteracting, equalizing the tax The point isn’t the substance. Wheth- unanimous consent that our remaining benefit these same individuals gained er you agree with the substance or not, time be yielded back. by claiming a huge loss deduction in the point is this bill is going nowhere, 2005, that would be fair, but it went far The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without and therefore to call it up again and objection, it is so ordered. beyond that in many cases. It in- again and to posture and to make creased many of these individuals to a f speeches is just a political exercise and higher marginal tax rate. Because of CONCLUSION OF MORNING a waste of time. It is perfectly clear the size of the help, it pushed them BUSINESS from the vote we took last week that into a whole other tax bracket. It sub- this package doesn’t have near the 60 jected many taxpayers to the AMT, The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- votes required in the Senate to pass it pore. Morning business is closed. which they would not have been sub- through the process. jected to otherwise. It phased out cer- f If that weren’t enough, it is perfectly tain deductions for them. It even sub- clear that President Bush will veto the RENEWABLE ENERGY AND JOB jected some individuals’ Social Secu- bill. Of course, to override a veto CREATION ACT OF 2008—MOTION rity benefits to additional taxation. It doesn’t simply take 60 votes, it takes TO PROCEED made many taxpayers ineligible for two-thirds of the Senate—67. So it is Federal student loans. So it didn’t sim- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- perfectly clear that it is going no- ply counteract and equalize the tax pore. Under the previous order, the where, and here we are again pos- benefit some folks got in 2007 by claim- Senate will resume consideration of turing, making political speeches and ing a very large loss deduction; it went the motion to proceed to H.R. 6049, political points on the floor. which the clerk will report. I have a radical idea. Let’s come to- beyond that in thousands upon thou- The legislative clerk read as follows: gether in a bipartisan way. Let’s come sands of cases. Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 767, H.R. around a consensus bill and actually So on top of Katrina, on top of Rita, 6049, an act to amend the Internal Revenue pass it through the process and get it on top of unimaginable—to most of Code of 1986 to provide incentives for energy signed by the President. I believe the us—personal tragedy, what happened is production and conservation, to extend cer- Grassley bill, which has been intro- these folks got a tax penalty. That is tain expiring provisions, to provide indi- duced in the Senate, is the basis for ridiculous. We need to fix that. There vidual income tax relief, and for other pur- is a clear sentiment and a clear major- poses. that sort of bipartisan discussion and real work. ity in Congress to fix that. That fix for The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- This is particularly important for the Road Home Program in Louisiana pore. Under the previous order, the many of my constituents in Louisiana and for the Housing Assistance Pro- time until 12:30 p.m. shall be equally because many of those Louisianans, as gram in Mississippi is included in this divided and controlled by the two lead- well as folks in Mississippi and else- Grassley tax extenders bill, which can ers or their designees. where, have been suffering from a very be a bipartisan product, which can gar- The Senator from Louisiana is recog- unfair situation. They are actually ner bipartisan support, which can gain nized. paying a tax penalty because of the far more than 60 votes in the Senate, Mr. VITTER. Mr. President, I have enormous losses they suffered during and which can and would be signed into townhall meetings all around Lou- Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. What am law by the President. isiana on a very regular basis. At these I talking about? It is this: In 2005, Hur- This is enormously important for meetings we discuss a number of cru- ricane Katrina struck the gulf coast tens of thousands of Louisianans. This cial issues facing all of us. Lately, of with enormous ferocity. A few weeks is enormously important for many course, it has been dominated by sky- later, Hurricane Rita struck southwest folks in Mississippi. These aren’t sim- high gasoline prices and the need for a Louisiana and southeast Texas. Of ply run-of-the-mill folks; these are by coherent energy policy. But what I course, as we all know, many folks suf- definition folks who suffered through hear more than anything else as I fered enormous and tragic losses. Many some of the worst losses due to Hurri- reach out to my constituents all folks I know personally lost their en- canes Katrina and Rita. In that con- around the State, the biggest, most im- tire homes and virtually all of their be- text—as they wait year after year sim- portant sentiment I hear is: When are longings. Of course, folks in that situa- ply for a fix so that they aren’t penal- most folks in Congress going to stop tion legitimately could take a big loss ized by the tax man on top of every- playing political games and actually on their next tax return. As a result, in thing they suffered through because of act? When are most folks in Wash- 2005, people did what you would expect the hurricanes—in that context, how ington going to stop posturing and ar- them to do: They filed loss deductions dare anyone play political games. How guing just toward the next election and on their tax returns for that year be- dare anyone posture and make political take care of the people’s business? Un- cause of these enormous and tragic speeches rather than simply trying to fortunately, I believe this exercise we losses. come together and do the people’s busi- have going on on the Senate floor is Push forward to 2007. The good news ness. But again, that is what is going yet another example of the posturing is that the American people responded on here on the floor.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.011 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5679 We have a tax extenders package tain provisions. That is called legis- Mr. BAUCUS. Maybe we are making which has provisions that many folks, lating. It is debate. Before we can do headway because the substitute amend- including myself, have major objec- that, we have to get onto the bill. We ment I will offer would not include tions to: A huge earmark to build a cannot pass legislation until we can Davis-Bacon, or may not consider some train in New York, a new tax break for get on the bill. provisions the Senator is addressing. trial lawyers, an expansion of the So I am asking my good friend from Again, to go back, there has to be an Davis-Bacon Act which would hurt our Louisiana if maybe the better alter- understanding on the Senator’s side of economy, and $55 billion of tax provi- native—nobody is playing politics. We the aisle that the amendments offered sions. I cannot support that Baucus are trying to get ourselves into a pro- would be good-faith amendments and package because of those clearly objec- cedural situation so we can debate leg- not obstructive political amendments. tionable items. More importantly, islation and pass legislation for the I thank the Senator for the dialog. about half of the Senate can’t support good of the country. I ask my good Maybe we have made a little headway it for that reason, and therefore the friend from Louisiana if he might con- so we can get enough support to pro- Senate isn’t near the 60 votes required sider voting for the motion to proceed ceed to the bill. to pass that on in the process. Even if so that we can get on the legislation Mr. President, Samuel Johnson it were, as I said before, President Bush and so that other Senators can offer called a second marriage ‘‘the triumph has made it crystal-clear that because amendments to improve the legislation of hope over experience.’’ Actually, of these controversial provisions, he and so the Senate can vote. that is where we are today. The Senate Mr. VITTER. If the Senator will would veto the bill. So this package is seeks a similar triumph of hope today yield, I appreciate his comments. I going nowhere. To revote on this pack- because we are here again to consider would be open for that path forward if the vote on a motion to proceed to H.R. age is to waste time and play political there was assurance from the majority 6049, the Renewable Energy and Job games. I don’t know why the majority leader that there would be that full op- Creation Act of 2008. This time I hope leader is determined to do that, but he portunity for amendments, particu- for a better result. And maybe some- is doing that today. He has even talked larly on the crucial objectionable what, based on the discussion I just had about doing it a third time. items that I outlined. Unfortunately, with the Senator from Louisiana, we I urge the majority leader and all of to date, there has been absolutely no can find a way so that we can proceed my colleagues to act for the good of assurance in that regard. In fact, the to the bill and pass these very impor- the American people, to come around a majority leader, through his actions, tant provisions. consensus package that can be passed has taken the opposite course time This bill will foster clean, new energy and be signed into law, not to simply after time after time, as the Senator sources. This is a bill to extend some try to score political points, make knows, by filling up the tree. So if we very important tax provisions that more speeches, and waste even more could take that path forward, with the benefit American families and busi- time on the Senate floor. assurance to have votes on amend- nesses. This is a bill on which I hope to All of the American people deserve ments regarding those clearly objec- offer an amendment to stave off cer- that. But, surely, folks who suffered tionable matters, that might be pro- tain tax increases under the alter- enormous losses because of Hurricanes ductive. Unfortunately, that hasn’t Katrina and Rita deserve that even been the assurance the majority leader native minimum tax. Last Tuesday, we tried to do this more. Surely, those folks deserve the has offered to give, and it hasn’t been same thing—move to this bill—but we relief contained in both bills, but also his practice. the relief that can actually be passed Mr. BAUCUS. I will ask another fell short of 60 votes. Many of my col- and signed into law in a bipartisan con- question. If we vote for the motion to leagues on the other side of the aisle sensus package. proceed, with the assurance and under- were against moving to the bill. That Let’s do the work of the American standing that there would be the full meant we could not even get on the people. Let’s put people before politics, opportunity for amendments, but also, bill; therefore, we could not offer and let’s pass this important legisla- I think, in the spirit of comity and amendments to improve it and pass it tion by moving on to a consensus bill good faith—sometimes amendments to help many Americans and individ- that can gain far more than 60 votes in are blocked because they are not good- uals in businesses. Again, that meant the Senate and be signed into law by faith amendments, such as on abortion we could not even discuss the merits of the President. and other issues that have nothing to the bill. That meant we could not con- With that, I yield the floor. do with the bill. They are political sider my substitute amendment, which The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- amendments. The Senate has, unfortu- would have addressed several Senate pore. The Senator from Montana is rec- nately, come to the point where be- priorities, including a couple on the ognized. cause they offer political amendments, other side of the aisle. Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, before with nothing to do with the issue at This bill contains a robust energy the Senator leaves, I would like to hand, the majority leader is sometimes package, with more than $17 billion in make a simple point. He mentioned forced into that situation in order to incentives for alternative energy, effi- various provisions he would like to see set up a procedure to minimize the pos- ciency, and clean coal. This package is enacted. I suppose most of them con- sibility of the occurrence of those po- important for our environment and our cern his State of Louisiana, as they ap- litical amendments. So it is a two-way energy security, and it is important to propriately should. Let’s ask ourselves, street. It is my objective—and I would facilitate the transition to a carbon- what is the parliamentary position we counsel the majority leader to allow controlled economy. If we don’t get are in now? It is very clear. amendments. That is the way the Sen- this bill, we cannot do any of that. The vote before us, which will be ate should operate. This bill would extend expiring indi- taken soon today, is very simple. It is There has to be a good-faith under- vidual tax provisions, including the whether we move to the next step to standing on the Senator’s side of the teacher expense deduction and the get on legislation. It is called a motion aisle on good-faith amendments. qualified tuition deduction. The bill to proceed. It is true it is a motion to Mr. VITTER. I only say to the distin- would also extend expiring business tax proceed to a House-passed bill. If the guished Senator, if the majority leader provisions. These include the R&D tax Senate lets us proceed—including the would come to the floor and guarantee credit and the active finance expensing Senator from Louisiana—to that bill, amendments on the substance of the provisions. then I will offer a substitute and pre- bill, on the train to New York and the These business provisions help to sumably we will be on the substitute. I Davis-Bacon provision and down the keep America competitive in a global thought it was not only the preroga- line in terms of all those highly objec- economy. These business provisions tive of the Senate, but it is an oppor- tionable issues I outlined a minute ago, help to maintain and create jobs. If tunity for Senators to debate amend- which go to the substance of the bill, I these individual and business provi- ments and for Senators to offer amend- will be all ears. Unfortunately, that sions are not extended, millions of fam- ments—amendments to strike certain has not been his practice on prior ilies and businesses will face tax in- provisions or amendments to add cer- issues or in this situation. creases. If we don’t pass this bill, many

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.012 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5680 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 individuals and businesses will find We need to decide whether we will de- go forward. As of now, we have not had their taxes going up. velop new jobs and new medications. consent from the minority to go for- The bill is paid for with two revenue We need to decide whether we will help ward with this. raisers that have very broad support. It teachers, families, and schools. We The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there is also sound tax policy. The argu- need to decide whether we are going to objection? ments against this bill this week may make energy independence a priority, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I as well be the same as last week’s argu- or we can continue to allow hedge fund object. I will use a few moments of ments. Last week, we heard that we managers to defer, without limitation, leader time to explain why. should not increase taxes to pay for tax their compensation for investing other The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- cuts. people’s money. tion is heard. As I said before, and will say again, Let’s show America we can make the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, we these revenue raisers are not tax in- right choice. Let’s give American fami- need to get back to first principles creases. The first revenue-raising pro- lies and businesses reason for hope. around here. The Democratic majority vision in the bill is the delay of the ef- Let’s not give them the same experi- scheduled the hearing my good friend fective date of the worldwide alloca- ence they received last Tuesday. Let’s references in a way that would violate tion of interest. This provision would proceed to this important tax relief bill the standing rules of the Senate. Rule delay application of the interest rule, for many American families and busi- 26.5 provides: which was not supposed to go into ef- nesses. Notwithstanding any other provision of fect until next year. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- the rules, when the Senate is in session, no committee of the Senate or any sub- Many of the companies that will ben- sent that the quorum calls prior to the efit from this provision told me they committee thereof may meet, without spe- recess be charged equally to both sides, cial leave, after the conclusion of the first would rather have the business extend- and I suggest the absence of a quorum. ers than early applications of the two hours after the meeting of the Senate The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- commenced and in no case after two o’clock worldwide application of interest. pore. Without objection, it is so or- . . . unless consent therefor has been ob- Why? These companies realize that dered. tained from the majority leader and the mi- because of the firm position of the The clerk will call the roll. nority leader . . . House of Representatives, we need to The legislative clerk proceeded to Typically, as we all know, the minor- offset extending these valuable tax call the roll. ity provides consent for committees to benefits. To make that point more violate rule 26.5. The minority rou- clear, this body knows the House has Mr. REID. I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be tinely provides this consent, frankly, been insisting that offsets be utilized in the interest of comity. But comity to pay for some of these tax reductions rescinded. also requires the majority to treat the that will pass with this bill. That is a The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- minority fairly which means, at a min- political reality, something we all face. pore. Without objection, it is so or- imum, that the majority needs to keep That is partly why these offsets are in dered. its commitments to the minority. If this bill, including delaying applica- f commitments in this body are not tion of worldwide allocation of inter- RECESS kept, then comity breaks down. If that est. These companies have weighed the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- occurs, the minority will not routinely costs and benefits, and they have made pore. Under the previous order, the grant consent to those matters that we the choice in favor of the tax extenders Senate stands in recess until 2:15 p.m. usually do. In this case, we have in the bill. The second revenue-raising Thereupon, at 12:31 p.m., the Senate unfulfilled commitments with respect provision addresses offshore deferred recessed until 2:15 p.m. and reassem- to treating circuit court judges fairly. compensation. This provision would bled when called to order by the Pre- It is the middle of June. The Senate prevent hedge fund managers from de- siding Officer (Mr. CARPER). has only confirmed eight circuit court ferring income. Mr. BAUCUS. I suggest the absence nominees. This is less than half the This is not an increase in tax on of a quorum. number the majority leader and I hedge fund managers. Rather, it is a The PRESIDING OFFICER. The agreed to at the beginning of the Con- change in the timing of when income clerk will call the roll. gress. It is barely half the number of tax will be applied. This is a timing The assistant legislative clerk pro- circuit court nominees that a Repub- issue, not a tax increase. Therefore, I ceeded to call the roll. lican Senate confirmed in President believe it is sound tax policy. Mr. REID. I ask unanimous consent Clinton’s final Congress. More trou- Last week, we heard that we should that the order for the quorum call be bling, the chairman has threatened to not need to offset extending current rescinded. soon stop confirming circuit court tax benefits. This is a curious argu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without nominees altogether here in June. ment. It is curious because the Senate objection, it is so ordered. The Republican conference does not paid for extending expiring tax provi- f consider this lack of progress and thinly veiled threat to be, frankly, in good sions in the recent past. UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST— We paid for extenders in the JOBS faith. Not surprisingly, it is, therefore, COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY Act in 2004, we paid for extenders in the not inclined to freely give its consent Tax Relief Act of 2005, and we paid for Mr. REID. Mr. President, we have a to matters that are important to the extenders in the military tax relief bill vote that will occur momentarily. I majority. That is the way things work that Congress just passed and pre- ask unanimous consent that the Sen- around here. As I have said before, the sented to the President on June 6. We ate Committee on the Judiciary be au- Senate works best when there is a spir- have done that. So this week the Sen- thorized to meet during the session of it of cooperation. Absent that spirit, ate is faced with a choice that, in my the Senate in order to conduct a hear- the minority will be compelled to pro- opinion, is relatively easy. If we can ing entitled ‘‘Responding to the Grow- tect its rights using all protections af- get to H.R. 6049, if the Senate will vote ing Need for Federal Judgeships: The forded it under Senate rules. to get to the bill, we could then take Federal Judgeship Act of 2008.’’ It is There is an easy solution to the prob- up my substitute amendment. scheduled for 2:30 this afternoon in the lem. We have been talking about it My substitute amendment contains Dirksen Building. The witness list is both privately and publicly over the the provisions that I have talked remarkably good. We have the chair- last few months. The majority needs to about, plus a 1-year AMT patch—mak- man of the Judiciary Resources Com- start confirming circuit court nomi- ing sure people don’t have to pay the mittee, Judicial Conference of the nees, at least those who meet the AMT in the next taxable year, and that United States; the Director of Home- chairman’s own criteria. is without any offsets. So by going to land Security and Justice from the And it seems to me that before the the bill and seeing it through, Congress United States Government Account- committee spends its time creating would take care of a lot of families and ability Office, William O. Jenkins. new vacancies, which is what the hear- a lot of businesses. That would be an important hearing to ing today was about, it needs to work

VerDate Aug 31 2005 23:58 Jun 17, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.013 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5681 on filling the vacancies that already Mr. REID. Yes, I will. 2007 and extend provisions that are set exist. Unfortunately, the Judiciary Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask to expire at the end of 2008. I support Committee is moving at a glacial pace through the Chair, did the majority extension of the R&D tax credit, teach- toward that end. It has only held two leader not hear the distinguished Re- er expenses deduction, tuition deduc- circuit court hearings this year. Before publican leader say they don’t want to tion, accelerated depreciation for that, it hadn’t held a single one since give consent to these hearings that the leasehold and restaurant improve- last September. We have no indication majority may want? I was wondering if ments, the renewable energy tax incen- that it is going to pick up the pace. the distinguished majority leader was tives, and many other important provi- There are several outstanding nomi- aware of this discussion on May 15 of sions in this package. nees who have been sitting in com- this year about this judgeship act. In addition, the bill includes a provi- mittee who meet the chairman’s cri- First, I quote Senator SESSIONS, a sion that I introduced, S. 814, which teria. Until they are treated fairly, the noted Republican: would allow attorneys to deduct reim- majority will find our cooperation in- My comments on the judges’ bill, as a bursable court costs and expenses in creasingly hard to come by. member and Ranking on the Courts Sub- the same tax period in which they are The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- committee, we did have hearings several paid or incurred. I strongly support jority leader. years ago but not recently. this provision and have urged Chair- Mr. REID. Mr. President, I under- Then we heard from Senator KYL, the man BAUCUS and Ranking Member stand that my distinguished counter- distinguished deputy minority leader: GRASSLEY to include it in this bill. part has a right to do this, an absolute So what I would like to do, Mr. Chairman, While the House bill, H.R. 6049, does right. I don’t question that right. We is just recommend that you take our col- not address the alternative minimum will just have to schedule the hearing leagues up on the suggestion that we have a tax, AMT, it is my understanding that at a different time, if they don’t want hearing to validate the requirements. a Baucus substitute amendment will to have the hearing. I will, though, At which point Senator COBURN, an- include a 1-year AMT ‘‘patch,’’ without briefly comment, quoting Majority other Republican, said: offsets, to prevent millions of addi- Leader Lott from years past. When we If we’re going to fix it, let’s fix it right. tional taxpayers from being hit by the go home to our respective States, there Let’s have a great hearing. Let’s bring the AMT as a result of bracket creep. I sup- are a lot of issues. Every State has the GAO in, let’s bring the Conference in, and port the AMT ‘‘patch’’ so long as it is same issues: housing problems, high let’s find out [how] to do it right. not used as an excuse to raise taxes gas prices, doing something about glob- And then Senator GRASSLEY, another elsewhere by adding offsets. The AMT al warming. When is the last time any- noted Republican said: revenues on millions of taxpayers were one went home and somebody said to That is the purpose of a hearing, and that’s never intended to be collected. you: Boy, are you guys going to do why it is very important that we give this Despite the positive elements of this something about those judges? As Sen- adequate study. I ask the distinguished lead- legislation, there are still significant er, was he aware of the fact that this hearing issues that must be addressed. The ator Lott said: The question never was being held after four senior members of comes up. the Republican caucus asked me to have the main sticking point between Demo- Senator LEAHY, chairman of this hearing? crats and Republicans is whether tem- committee, and I have said before, this Mr. REID. I say to my friend, in re- porary extensions of tax relief should Judiciary Committee has wide-ranging sponse to his question, yes. And the be offset with permanent tax increases jurisdiction over a lot of issues, most Senator from Vermont followed the ad- elsewhere. Following that process year- of which are extremely difficult to deal vice of his colleagues and had someone in and year-out means that permanent with. He does a remarkably good job. I from the General Accounting Office tax increases must be enacted so that am very proud that he is the chairman testify. I appreciate that. taxpayers can maintain the current tax of the Judiciary Committee. But he I ask that we have the vote now. structure. On April 23, 2008, I, along and I said we would do our utmost by Members have been waiting. with 40 other Republicans, wrote to Fi- the Memorial Day break to confirm nance Chairman BAUCUS to support f three more circuit court judges. I think ‘‘enacting a 2008 AMT patch and ex- it was three; I don’t remember the RENEWABLE ENERGY AND JOB tending the various expiring tax provi- number. We did our utmost. Senator CREATION ACT OF 2008—MOTION sions without offsetting tax increases.’’ LEAHY did his utmost. But it was slow TO PROCEED—Continued It would be my preference to see the walked by the Republicans on the Judi- CLOTURE MOTION tax extenders package passed without ciary Committee. So we are at a point The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under offsets. now where finally we had two circuit the previous order, pursuant to rule As it relates to the renewable energy court judges reported out of the com- XXII, the clerk will report the motion tax incentives, it is difficult to under- mittee last week. We are going to vote to invoke cloture. stand why the House bill and the an- on those as soon as we can. We have The assistant legislative clerk read ticipated Baucus substitute would re- fulfilled our commitment, so no one as follows: quire offsets when the Senate has al- needs to talk about commitments not CLOTURE MOTION ready spoken clearly on the issue. On being fulfilled. We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- April 10, 2008, the Senate voted 88 to 8 Again, I didn’t invent the Thurmond ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the for an Ensign/Cantwell amendment to rule. It was invented by long-time Sen- Standing Rules of the Senate, hereby move the Foreclosure Prevention Act to ex- ator Strom Thurmond, at one time to bring to a close debate on the motion to tend the renewable energy tax incen- chairman of the Judiciary Committee. proceed to Calendar No. 767, H.R. 6049, the tives without offsets. Pennsylvania is He said that after June 1, he felt it was Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act of among the leading producers of wind appropriate not to rush into appointing 2008. energy east of the Mississippi River. more Federal judges. We have not said Harry Reid, Max Baucus, Barbara Boxer, The thousands of Pennsylvanians em- Amy Klobuchar, Benjamin L. Cardin, that the Thurmond rule is in place. But E. Benjamin Nelson, Maria Cantwell, ployed in the alternative energy indus- some said we should have it in place. It Patty Murray, Bernard Sanders, Daniel try and those interested in clean, re- is well after June 1, and Senator LEAHY K. Akaka, Robert Menendez, Ron newable sources of energy for their and I are still committed to taking Wyden, Debbie Stabenow, Blanche L. homes are looking to Congress to pro- care of more circuit court judges. We Lincoln, Patrick J. Leahy, Richard vide clarity and certainty on this issue. are going to do that. I am sure there Durbin, Sheldon Whitehouse. Without immediate action, it is widely will be opportunities to take a look at Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, I have believed that investments will decline some trial court judges. But we are sought recognition to discuss my vote significantly throughout the second doing our very best. against cloture on the motion to pro- half of 2008. I admire and appreciate the work of ceed to H.R. 6049, the Energy and Job On June 10, 2008, the Senate failed to Senator LEAHY. Creation Act of 2008. invoke cloture on the motion to pro- Mr. LEAHY. Will the Senator yield H.R. 6049 would revive important tax ceed to H.R. 6049 by a vote of 50 to 44. for a question? provisions that expired at the end of That vote, and the vote which occurred

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.019 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5682 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 today 52 to 44, demonstrate that Senate Specter Thune Warner Senators who are united in the Con- Stevens Vitter Wicker Republicans need to be included in the Sununu Voinovich gressional Caucus for Women’s Issues process of drafting the bill. An open on Burma sent a letter to the U.N. Sec- amendment process is important for NOT VOTING—4 retary urging him to convince the Bur- this bill to proceed. Republican amend- Clinton McCain mese Government to allow disaster re- ments must be allowed. However, an Kennedy Obama lief assessment teams into the country open process is threatened by the Ma- The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this and lift restrictions on international jority Leader’s standard operating pro- vote, the yeas are 52, the nays are 44. humanitarian organizations. When the cedure of ‘‘filling the tree’’ and filing Three-fifths of the Senators duly cho- Burmese Government finally consented cloture to cut off further amendments sen and sworn not having voted in the and pledged to allow international aid and debate. affirmative, the motion is rejected. workers to enter the country, I believe On May 21, 2008, the White House Mr. REID. Mr. President, I enter a many of us hoped the full-scale recov- issued a Statement of Administration motion to reconsider the vote by which ery process had begun and that we Policy which states that the Presi- cloture was not invoked on the motion could turn our attention elsewhere. dent’s senior advisers would rec- to proceed to H.R. 6049. Sadly, this was not the case. The situa- ommend a Presidential veto of this bill The PRESIDING OFFICER. The motion in Burma remains perilous, and in its current form. It is my hope that tion is entered. the 2.4 million storm survivors need in light of today’s vote, leadership on VISIT TO THE SENATE BY JAPANESE our attention now more than ever. both sides will work quickly to bring PARLIAMENTARIANS I recently met with representatives up this bill in a bipartisan manner that Mr. REID. Mr. President, I have spo- from the local Burmese community in will allow the Senate to work its will ken with the Republican leader about my State who have been personally im- and pass legislation that can be quick- this. We have the opportunity to greet pacted by this deadly natural disaster, ly signed by the President. some Japanese parliamentarians. Sen- the most deadly in their country’s his- The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- ators INOUYE and STEVENS have worked tory. Minnesota is home to thousands imous consent, the mandatory quorum for many years to develop a relation- of people from Burma, including the call has been waived. ship with the Japanese parliamentar- largest U.N. concentration of refugees The question is, Is it the sense of the ians and have been extremely success- who have been victims of religious and Senate that debate on the motion to ful. I hope Senators in the Chamber ethnic persecution under Burma’s mili- proceed to H.R. 6049, the Renewable will say hello to our colleagues from tary regime. As with so many immi- Energy and Job Creation Act of 2008, Japan. grant and refugee communities in our shall be brought to a close? RECESS SUBJECT TO THE CALL OF THE CHAIR Nation, the members of Minnesota’s The yeas and nays are mandatory Mr. REID. I ask unanimous consent Burmese community maintain exten- under the rule. that the Senate have a short recess sive ties to their country, and the The clerk will call the roll. subject to the call of the Chair. storm and its aftermath has been a The assistant legislative clerk called There being no objection, the Senate, particularly painful period. Too many the roll. at 2:51 p.m., recessed, subject to the members of this community are still Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the call of the Chair, until 2:59 p.m., and waiting after 6 weeks to hear from Senator from New York (Mrs. CLIN- reassembled when called to order by grandparents and cousins and sisters TON), the Senator from Massachusetts the Presiding Officer (Mr. CARPER). and brothers. They do not know if they The PRESIDING OFFICER (Ms. (Mr. KENNEDY), and the Senator from are alive. LANDRIEU). The Senator from Min- Illinois (Mr. OBAMA) are necessarily ab- I met with the leaders of their com- sent. nesota is recognized. munity in order to listen to the infor- Mr. KYL. The following Senator is BURMA mation and reports they were receiving necessarily absent: the Senator from Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Madam President, from friends and relatives caught in Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). yesterday I came to the floor, along the middle of an ongoing disaster. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there with Senators HARKIN, GRASSLEY, and stories I heard were heartbreaking. any other Senators in the Chamber de- others, to talk about the devastating Over 100,000 people are believed to have siring to vote? floods the Midwest has experienced, lost their lives during and after the The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 52, and no one would know more than the storm. Tens of thousands are still miss- nays 44, as follows: Presiding Officer about the tragedies ing, and millions are homeless and [Rollcall Vote No. 150 Leg.] these types of natural disasters can without adequate food or fresh water. cause for everyone in those commu- This disaster was nearly of tsunami YEAS—52 nities and for the infrastructure. proportions; however, it affected one Akaka Durbin Murray But today I am here to talk about small country, which time and time Baucus Feingold Nelson (FL) Bayh Feinstein Nelson (NE) something a little different, about how again refused our help. Biden Harkin Pryor another country, the country of The local Burmese with whom I met Bingaman Inouye Reed Burma, has dealt with this. I come to told me how difficult it is to get basic Boxer Johnson Rockefeller Brown Kerry the floor today to call attention to the information and stay in contact with Salazar ongoing humanitarian crisis in Burma their family members in the disaster Byrd Klobuchar Sanders Cantwell Kohl Schumer more than 6 weeks after the deadly areas. One woman told me she still has Cardin Landrieu Smith storm that wreaked widespread death not been able to locate her sisters in Carper Lautenberg Snowe Casey Leahy and destruction throughout that re- Burma. Others expressed their fears Coleman Levin Stabenow gion. that the Burmese regime would never Collins Lieberman Tester When Cyclone Nargis struck the admit the need for outside help or Webb Conrad Lincoln Irrawaddy Delta on May 2, the inter- Corker McCaskill Whitehouse allow the aid that entered the country Dodd Menendez Wyden national community’s attention was to reach the areas it was needed the Dorgan Mikulski captivated by the catastrophic loss of most. They feared that unless the NAYS—44 life and the ensuing dangerous and de- international community remained plorable conditions faced by 2.4 million Alexander Craig Hutchison vigilant and refused to accept the Bur- Allard Crapo Inhofe Burmese who survived the storm. mese Government’s conditions and con- Barrasso DeMint Isakson In the days immediately following trol over humanitarian aid, the plight Bennett Dole Kyl the storm, the United States, the U.N., of the people would grow weaker while Bond Domenici Lugar Brownback Ensign Martinez and other nations and organizations the regime’s grip would grow stronger. Bunning Enzi McConnell applied strong pressure on Burma’s rul- Casualties from the Burma cyclone, Burr Graham Murkowski ing Government to allow all inter- as I mentioned, are nearly on the same Chambliss Grassley Reid national aid workers to enter disaster scale as the Indian Ocean tsunami of Coburn Gregg Roberts Cochran Hagel Sessions areas and provide medical and humani- 2004. But in that instance, the im- Cornyn Hatch Shelby tarian aid to survivors. The 16 women pacted countries accepted and even

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.001 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5683 asked for international aid. With the What would be an appalling and inex- term constructive change. The rebuild- military regime in Burma, they have cusable action in any other nation facing process in Burma will take years, tried to shut the world out. While the ing similar circumstances comes as lit- and it is imperative that in the weeks outpouring of donations, relief sup- tle surprise to anyone who has been and the months to come, we don’t lose plies, and aid personnel from around following the events in Burma over the our focus or our commitment or our the world has been substantial, only a last few years. But it wasn’t always obligation to assist the Burmese peo- fraction of available international aid that way. In fact, the current political ple. So I will continue to work with my is reaching the storm’s 2.4 million sur- conditions in Burma are ironic and colleagues to draw attention to this vivors. U.N. officials have reported tragic, especially when we consider situation and to continue to provide that aid groups are unable to provide that this country produced one of the every available opportunity to call at- 1.1 million survivors with sufficient great statesmen of the modern world— tention to it. This is our moral respon- food, clean water, and shelter, while U Thant. As Secretary General of the sibility. trying to prevent a second wave of United Nations from 1961 to 1971, he Madam President, I yield the floor, deaths from malnutrition and disease. worked so hard to promote inter- and I suggest the absence of a quorum. Of the 1.3 million people who have re- national human rights and to bring The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ceived some form of help, the U.N. peace to troubled regions of the world. clerk will call the roll. found they only have had access to in- In an address to the General Assembly The legislative clerk proceeded to consistent levels of assistance. Yet the commemorating the adoption of the call the roll. Burmese regime continues to raise bu- Universal Declaration of Human Mr. BROWN. I ask unanimous con- reaucratic obstructions to the help Rights, U Thant said that in the age of sent that the order for the quorum call waiting helplessly offshore. jet plane and satellites circling the be rescinded. Those international recovery work- globe, ‘‘the world is fast becoming a The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. ers who have been allowed to enter the community, a community with com- MCCASKILL). Without objection, it is so country, and even Burma’s own aid do- mon interests and common aspirations. ordered. nors and relief organizations, are fac- Gone are the days when each nation Mr. BROWN. I ask unanimous con- ing roadblocks in accessing the dis- was an island unto itself. Today, ques- sent to speak as in morning business. aster regions to provide aid, leaving tions of human rights are a matter of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without hundreds of thousands of survivors to objection, it is so ordered. fend for themselves. We have seen news international concern.’’ Unfortunately, the Government in UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE reports that survivors have been forced Burma wants to stay an island unto Mr. BROWN. Madam President, in to drink from dirty canals and to go for itself and doesn’t think the world the last 16 months, I have held some days without food. Many are turning to should concern itself with the human 100 roundtables across my State where Burmese monks for help due to the rights of its people. The military re- I invited some 65 Ohio counties of the Government’s inaction—the same gime’s neglect and abuse of its own 88. I invited a cross section of people, 15 monks who faced a brutal military to 20 people from a community, to sit crackdown last fall for their peaceful people challenges our traditional no- down and talk about their hopes, prodemocracy demonstrations. tions of national sovereignty and non- dreams, and ideas for working to- According to aid officials, in a nor- interference. The indifference of Bur- mal recovery effort, 6 weeks after a dis- ma’s military regime has generated an gether, the Federal Government with aster—and you think about 6 weeks international debate about humani- local government, businesses, labor or- after Katrina in your home State of tarian aid and the need for stronger ganizations, schools, and others. I have met with a number of workers Louisiana, Madam President—sur- international law to deal with cases and small business owners, community vivors should be on the road to recov- where national governments fail or ery and thinking about what they need refuse to provide adequate aid. leaders, and teachers. I heard over and to do to restart their lives. In Burma, In recent years, the international over, as the Presiding Officer has, 6 weeks after the storm, many sur- community has come to recognize that about the economic anxiety facing vivors still didn’t know how they were a government has a fundamental re- families in the State. I have done these going to find food, water, or shelter on sponsibility to protect its own people roundtables from Bryan to Steuben- a daily basis. and that we have a responsibility to ville, from Ashtabula to Hamilton. No- We are now receiving reports that take action with humanitarian inter- where is this anxiety felt more acutely the Government is forcibly closing aid vention when a government fails in than among displaced workers and camps and forcing homeless survivors that responsibility. Ohio families struggling to make ends to return to devastated villages. They Two weeks ago, U.S. Navy ships load- meet. are being told to rebuild their homes, ed with aid supplies and equipment Fundamentally flawed trade agree- but they haven’t been given the assist- withdrew from Burmese waters after ments and Bush economic policies have ance to do so. repeated unsuccessful attempts to de- crippled communities in too many The representatives of the Burmese liver their vital cargo that could save cases and devastated far too many fam- community I met with in Minnesota thousands of lives. U.S. officials have ilies. Since January 2001, Ohio State understand that the cyclone, and its said they will return only when Bur- has lost 200,000 manufacturing jobs. aftermath, is more than a natural dis- ma’s leaders change their minds and Since that time, the Nation has lost 3 aster, it is a political disaster. It is a allow them to offload their supplies in million manufacturing jobs. When one disaster made far worse, far more dead- Burma’s ports. But we cannot simply loses a manufacturing job, especially if ly, because of the repressive military turn away from the Burmese people it is a plant shutdown in a relatively regime that controls the country. The and allow the Burmese regime to con- small community—this is not hap- Burmese people have been repressed tinue to sacrifice thousands of lives in pening only in Cleveland and Dayton and impoverished by their own Govern- order to protect its own security. We and Youngstown and Toledo; it is hap- ment for years. The regime’s lack of re- must use all available means to compel pening in Tiffin, Defiance, Portsmouth, sponse to the cyclone disaster just the regime to allow full aid supplies and Chillicothe—if it has 300 workers, highlights how bad the human rights and personnel to enter the disaster it means fewer police officers because situation is. Rather than focusing on areas and to stay there until survivors of what happens to taxes. There aren’t ways to help the millions of Burmese are ready and able to begin rebuilding as many people working and businesses struggling to survive, the regime in- their lives. and individuals who are paying city instead used the chaos of the storm’s At the end of the meeting with our come tax or county tax. It means aftermath to quietly extend another local Burmese, I pledged to them that teacher layoffs, police, and fire layoffs. year the detention of Aung San Suu I would take their stories to Wash- It means services from the community Kyi, the leader of Burma’s democracy ington and do what I can to bring at- to support families are not what they movement, who has been detained at tention to the plight of the people in were prior to the plant closings. home on and off for 12 of the last 18 their country as we use our influence Clearly, a big reason is our trade pol- years. to bring about immediate and long- icy, the NAFTA–CAFTA model, PNTR

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.025 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5684 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 with China, which has caused the talking about literally shutting their fuel, and food. It comes on top of the outsourcing of millions of jobs. It is operation down. That is 7,000 jobs in mortgage and credit crisis in which bad tax policy and Bush economic pol- Wilmington, a community of 13,000 peo- millions of families have watched their icy. We obviously need to change direc- ple. Imagine what it does to them. primary source of wealth, their homes, tion. That is not going to happen with There is a company in Geauga County plummet in value. this President. It is not going to hap- in the northeast part of the State that Americans are looking to us for help, pen with the filibusters going on in the announced layoffs of hundreds of work- and we have to take action imme- Senate right now. But what we can do ers. Continental Airlines is laying off diately. We have a proposal before us something about immediately is to 3,000 workers, not only in Ohio but that would offer some relief by extend- help those Ohio families and Louisiana mostly in its hubs in Newark, Houston, ing unemployment insurance for an families with unemployment insur- and Cleveland. That is why this is so extra 3 months. That would have two ance. It is the only economic lifeline so very important. benefits. It would ensure that Ameri- many families have. It is not a giveaway. It is unemploy- cans, while they are looking for work, Unemployment compensation is in- ment insurance. It will be an effective will still be able to put food on the surance. It is called unemployment in- economic stimulus to get the economy table and fill up their gas tanks, and it surance. It is not a giveaway. It is not going. It is all about thousands of will give our economy an immediate welfare. It is individuals paying in Ohioans, hundreds of thousands of peo- boost because that money will be spent while they are working to an insurance ple across the country, thousands of quickly. This same measure passed the plan. The reason it is called insurance people in my State saying simply: I am House overwhelmingly last week, because Members on both sides of the is, if they lose their jobs, it is insur- trying to find a job. I am working to aisle realize that we have to move ance against the loss of the job. They find a job. I haven’t found a job yet, quickly. I am concerned that now Re- have earned this money. Yet an awful but I need an extension of my unem- publicans are more interested in block- lot of people, most of my friends on the ployment benefit. ing our progress on anything than ac- other side of the aisle as well as the Shawna from Akron wrote to me: tually taking meaningful action for the gentleman sitting in the White House, We are facing losing our house, our car, American people. Instead of working seem to think that unemployment in- and much more. I beg you to work for an ex- with us, Republicans have filled endless surance is a giveaway, a welfare pro- tension of unemployment benefits. hours on the floor with speeches com- gram, something that people want to Patricia and David Troy, a small plaining about problems but not offer- game the system and don’t want to community north of Dayton, wrote: ing any solutions. Instead of focusing work. They want to stay home, watch My husband is one of 334,000 unemployed on the concerns of working families, TV, and collect unemployment insur- Ohioans. President Bush threatened to veto this ance. Brent from West Chester, not far bill, and then he left on a tour of Eu- The fact is, we should reward work. from Cincinnati, wrote: rope. People want to work. But hundreds of We need our benefits to be extended or The American people are hurting. thousands of Ohioans and millions all families won’t be able to make it. They have had enough of political over the country have seen their unem- Nicole from Huron, a town near Lake games at their expense. I truly hope ployment expire, and they are asking Erie in northern Ohio, writes in the the President and his Republican allies for an additional 13 weeks to get them most direct terms: will join us in supporting this very im- through the day. Many of these are sin- Please help us. portant measure to extend unemploy- gle parents. Many people, if they have ment insurance. This is something we can do. It is not lost a job, lose their health care, and AMERICAN AEROSPACE JOBS going to solve our economic problems, they need a little bit of help. Mrs. MURRAY. Madam President, I but it will help an awful lot of families. Extending unemployment benefits is turn now to another example of how It will, in part, be a stimulus for the not only the right thing morally to do the President’s priorities are hurting economy. There is no reason we should for these families, it is also a good eco- working families, and that is the ad- not do it. nomic stimulus package. The Presiding ministration’s decision to send 44,000 I ask my friends on the other side of Officer knows that when we were ear- American aerospace jobs to Europe. the aisle to support the extension of lier trying to figure out how we could Within the next couple days, the Gov- unemployment benefits, and I ask the do a stimulus package to get the econ- ernment Accountability Office is going President to change his mind and sign omy going, the single best way is un- to issue a ruling on a decision regard- employment insurance extension, be- this legislation. It will matter for the ing a defense contract. It is Boeing’s cause that puts money right into pock- country, for States, communities, and first protest of a defense contract in ets immediately. The mechanism of especially for families. three decades. Boeing is challenging government is already in place so we I yield the floor and suggest the ab- the Air Force’s choice to award a $35 extend to them their unemployment sence of a quorum. billion contract to supply the mili- which had run out. We already know The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tary’s next generation of aerial refuel- how to do it. It is people who will spend clerk will call the roll. ing tankers to a European company, the money on daily living—on food, The legislative clerk proceeded to Airbus. We are all now awaiting the clothes, books for their kids, paying call the roll. GAO’s ruling because it was clear there the rent, paying heating or cooling Mrs. MURRAY. I ask unanimous con- were some major flaws in that con- bills. That is why it is so important. sent that the order for the quorum call tract. I have letters I have received in the be rescinded. Ever since the Air Force announced last few weeks from people in Ohio, in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without in February that it had awarded the dividuals, most of who are unemployed. objection, it is so ordered. contract to Airbus, the Air Force has Sometimes they are writing for a Mrs. MURRAY. Madam President, insisted there were no mistakes and neighbor or family member. Usually over the last 8 years, American fami- the Airbus tanker cost less. Yet we they are writing for themselves saying: lies have watched as the price of every- have already learned that is not true. Please extend unemployment insur- thing from gas to groceries has gone up Last week, the Air Force admitted to ance. and up while the value of the dollar has making a critical error when it cal- It is clear that all of us are getting gone down and down. Last month, they culated the operating cost of the two these letters. Members of Congress in got more bad news. Employers cut jobs tankers. It is now acknowledging that the House and Senate are receiving for the fifth straight month, bringing the Airbus plane actually cost tens of tens of thousands of letters, so it is the total number of people looking for millions of dollars more. crucial. In my State, in the last 7 work to 8.5 million. It was the worst 1- That isn’t news that surprises us, but weeks, we have seen a GM plant, 2,500 month jump in unemployment in 22 it is further evidence that we have to workers, is going to close near Dayton. years. That means that more of our get more answers from the Pentagon We have seen DHL, a company in workers are losing paychecks, even as before we, Congress, allow this con- southwest Ohio that delivers packages, they need money to pay for electricity, tract to become a reality. That is why

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:12 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.027 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5685 I have come to the floor this afternoon. makes absolutely no sense to me that The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without While the GAO decision is important, we would accuse Europe of illegally objection, it is so ordered. it won’t even come close to addressing subsidizing Airbus and then turn f all of the questions that have been around and award it a $35 billion con- VERMONT STATE HOUSING raised about this contract. That is be- tract of U.S. taxpayer money. It is es- AUTHORITY cause the GAO’s role in this process is pecially troubling because the con- very limited. It can examine whether sequences to our national security and Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I con- the Air Force followed the letter of the our economy will be huge. gratulate the Vermont State Housing law in the selection process, but it can- A report by the nonpartisan Eco- Authority, VSHA, on 40 years of excel- not look at anything beyond that. So nomic Policy Institute shows that Boe- lence. This organization, which came even if it is obvious to them that the ing would create at least twice as into existence with a creative spark as Airbus tanker costs more, that it is many American jobs as Airbus. In the first statewide housing authority less safe, or it doesn’t meet the Air other words, we stand to lose as many in the country, continues to find new Force’s needs, the GAO can’t take any as 14,000 jobs right here in the United and innovative ways to use Federal action. That is our job. That is States by sending this contract to Air- housing programs to find affordable Congress’s job. We have to get answers bus. With those jobs that we lose, we homes for Vermonters. to the questions that have been raised lose the knowledge and we lose the ex- Reaching this milestone should bring about this deal. pertise that helped us create our global great pride to the visionaries that cre- This is one of the largest contracts in military strength and has made the ated the system in 1968, including Gov- our history, and it is incredibly impor- United States the world leader in aero- ernor Phil Hoff, and to the 40 years of tant. Our tankers refuel planes and airspace technology. Yet no one has ex- staff, board members and leaders that craft from every single branch of our plained why we would let that slip have ensured that the statewide mis- military. As long as we control that re- away. sion of VSHA has been carried out on a fueling technology, we control our Not only am I very troubled that I daily basis. skies and our security, and that is ex- haven’t been able to get answers to The VSHA executive director, Rich- tremely important to our national se- these questions, but this month the Air ard Williams, has been at the helm of curity. We have to make sure we are Force gave us new reason to be con- the VSHA for more than half its life- making the best decision for our tax- cerned. About 2 weeks ago, the Defense span, working since 1984 to expand the payers and for our servicemembers. Secretary forced out the Air Force Sec- reach of the organization, develop and That is Congress’s responsibility. retary, Michael Wynne, and its Chief of maintain properties and move people I am especially concerned because Staff, Michael Moseley, after finding out of the cold and into their own when you compare Boeing’s 767 with systemic problems in the service that homes. It takes a man of great convic- Airbus’s A–330, the 767 is clearly a bet- led him to have a serious lack of con- tion to accomplish what he has done, ter plane. Compared to the 767, the Air- fidence in their leadership and in their and it takes a great team to deliver on bus tanker is a lot larger, it is less effi- oversight. Mr. Wynne and General the mission he and the board created. cient, and it is more expensive to oper- Moseley blessed this Airbus contract. Richard was recently quoted saying, ate. According to the Air Force itself, Clearly, we in Congress—those who ‘‘We are proud of what we’ve been able the A–330—the Airbus tanker—ranked represent the taxpayers of this coun- to accomplish for Vermonters over the lower than the Boeing 767 in surviv- try—need to look at this deal more past 40 years, but the challenges have ability, which is our ability to make closely. never been greater. We’re inspired and sure that our warfighters who are fly- Congress is entrusted by the Amer- motivated by the knowledge that our ing those planes are safe. The Airbus ican people with the responsibility to services are needed more than ever.’’ tanker ranked much lower than the look out for our taxpayers and to be a One of VSHA’s primary responsibil- Boeing plane in keeping our men and check on this administration or any ities is administering the Department women who are flying them safe. administration. When it is clear that of Housing and Urban Development’s, Yet although I have asked the Air the administration has gone in the HUD, Section 8 Voucher Program in Force to explain its decision on this wrong direction, we—Congress—have Vermont. During the past 40 years, the tanker numerous times over the last 3 to step in. Now is one of those times. VSHA has worked to increase the num- months, I have been stonewalled again We owe it to our taxpayers and to our ber of vouchers available to and again on answers. No one has ex- service men and women to make sure Vermonters in all corners of the State. plained why the Air Force would ask we buy the right plane. This contract This has been increasingly important for a medium-sized plane and then go is too important. as the Federal resources for the pro- out and choose a much larger design So I am here this afternoon on the grams many of our Nation’s most vul- which is going to cost billions of dol- floor of the Senate to implore my col- nerable populations depend upon have lars more in just fuel and maintenance. leagues to stand with me and continue been shrinking and poorly prioritized. No one has explained why we would to demand that the Air Force justify The number of low- to moderate-in- buy a plane that is so big that we are this decision. come Vermonters seeking affordable going to have to rip out and replace I yield the floor, and I suggest the ab- housing, including those with disabil- hundreds of runways, ramps, and hang- sence of a quorum. ities, the elderly and returning vet- ars around the globe in order to land The PRESIDING OFFICER. The erans, continues to climb. Fortunately that plane. clerk will call the roll. for Vermonters, the VSHA is con- No one has explained why we would The bill clerk proceeded to call the stantly recognized by HUD as one of not buy the safest possible airplane for roll. the Nation’s most well run and effec- our servicemembers. Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask tive housing authorities—giving hope Perhaps most importantly, no one unanimous consent that the order for to those that might have lost hope in can explain why we are giving a multi- the quorum call be rescinded. virtually every other government sys- billion-dollar contract to a company The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. LAU- tem. that has made no secret of its desire to TENBERG). Without objection, it is so Not only has the VSHA worked to as- dismantle our U.S. aerospace industry. ordered. sist people in finding affordable apart- For years, the foreign governments f ments, but they have also helped many that own Airbus have flooded it with il- Vermonters pursue their dreams of legal subsidies in order to compete MORNING BUSINESS homeownership. It gives me great pride with Boeing. In fact, the A–330 is a re- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask to say that VSHA’s Homeownership sult of that subsidized system. The unanimous consent that the Senate program has given more than 80 low-in- U.S. Trade Representative is so con- proceed to a period for the transaction come Vermont families the oppor- cerned that our Government has ac- of morning business, with Senators tunity to become homeowners. This dy- cused the EU of unfair trade practices permitted to speak for up to 10 minutes namic program works to improve self- before the World Trade Organization. It each. sufficiency by converting Section 8

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:12 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.028 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5686 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 vouchers into Homeownership Vouch- Opponents of this bill wrongly sug- omy, and it is unfortunate that Senate ers. I am happy to say that the VSHA gest that extending benefits for an ad- Republicans refused to work with us to Homeownership program has enabled ditional period of time in high unem- consider this important legislation. low-income Vermonters to build equity ployment States creates a disincentive f and wealth while increasing their civic for unemployed workers to seek a job. SELECT AGENT PROGRAM AND involvement. This flawed logic is not only demean- BIOSAFETY IMPROVEMENT ACT While providing housing for ing to hard-working Americans, it also Vermonters, the VSHA has simulta- ignores the reality for job seekers Mr. BURR. Mr. President, I rise neously preserved and revitalized town pounding the pavement in today’s today in support of S. 3127, the Select centers, historical buildings and a gen- economy. Agent Program and Biosafety Improve- eral sense of community across the Unemployed workers are out looking ment Act of 2008. Last week, I intro- State. They have done this with com- for new jobs, but because of the eco- duced this important legislation with mendable collaboration with nonprofit nomic downturn, there are fewer and my friend Senator TED KENNEDY. I organizations, the private sector and fewer opportunities to find work. thank my colleague from Massachu- various government agencies. I have Today there are only 3.7 million exist- setts for his partnership. I enjoyed seen their work, and most importantly, ing job opportunities for 8.5 million un- working closely with him in the 109th I have seen the tremendous impact employed workers. Congress on the Pandemic and All-Haz- their programs have had on my home In addition, the long-term unemploy- ards Preparedness Act, which was State and the people who call the ment rate is 62 percent higher than it signed into law in December 2006. He Green Mountains their home. was in January of 2001, when our coun- continues to be one of the great leaders I congratulate the VSHA on their try was in a recession. This means that in the U.S. Senate and I look forward outstanding achievements over the more and more unemployed workers to continuing to work with him to en- past 40 years. On behalf of the people of are running out of benefits before find- sure our laws protect the American Vermont, I applaud everyone who has ing new jobs. people from health threats of all kinds. worked to make the Vermont State In California, over 50 percent of S. 3127 will enhance our Nation’s bio- Housing Authority a great success. newly unemployed workers are ex- security and improve the biosafety of f hausting their benefits before finding a our most secure laboratories. The bill new job. achieves two overarching goals. EMERGENCY EXTENDED UNEM- Californians are also struggling to First, it reauthorizes and improves PLOYMENT COMPENSATION ACT deal with rising fuel and food costs, the Select Agent Program. This pro- Mrs. BOXER. Mr. President, I rise in making it even more difficult for the gram was created in the 1990s to con- support of H.R. 5749, Emergency Ex- 324,000 Americans who have lost their trol the transfer of certain dangerous tended Unemployment Compensation jobs this year to provide for their fami- biological agents and toxins that could Act. Earlier this month we were met lies. be used for bioterrorism. The program with troubling news about our econ- We learned today that the national expanded after the anthrax attacks in omy. We learned that the unemploy- gas price average increased yet again 2001; however, the authorization ex- ment rate, one of the strongest indica- to $4.08, up $1.07 from last year. pired at the end of September 2007. tors of our Nation’s economic health, Prices for food staples like bread and Second, the bill evaluates and en- experienced the largest one month in- eggs are up as high as 20 percent from hances the safety and oversight of high crease since 1986, from 5 percent to 5.5 last year. containment laboratories. These lab- percent. Food banks and soup kitchens, like oratories are used by scientists to In real terms, this jump in the unem- the Alameda County Food Bank in study select agents and other infec- ployment rate means that between California, are seeing demand for food tious materials. Labs are categorized April and May, 49,000 more American aid grow as much as 40 percent over by their safety level. There are four workers lost their jobs. In 2008, our last year, with the increase in visits a levels, termed Biosafety Level, BSL, 1 economy has lost a total of 324,000 jobs. direct result of the high unemployment through 4, with 4 being the highest In my State of California, the unem- rate. level. The number of these labs has ployment rate is the third highest in Senate Democrats know that we grown, both domestically and inter- the Nation at 6.2 percent. Some areas must act now to provide additional re- nationally, in the last several years. in California’s Central Valley have un- lief to workers who have exhausted Recent incidents in which laboratory employment rates as high as 10 to 12 their benefits and in areas of the coun- workers were exposed to disease agents percent. try with high unemployment. have highlighted the need to evaluate Families in these communities are This bill would immediately provide ways to improve the safety of these struggling in this economy, and with up to 13 weeks of extended unemploy- labs. Governor Schwarzenegger’s recently ment benefits in every state to workers The Select Agent Program is jointly declared a drought emergency in the who have exhausted the 26 weeks of administered by the U.S. Department Central Valley, farmers there tell me regular unemployment benefits. of Health and Human Services’, HHS, that because of the water shortage, Workers in States with higher levels Centers for Disease Control and Pre- fewer acres will be planted this year, of unemployment, like California, vention, CDC, and the U.S. Department which will mean fewer jobs in this area would be eligible for 26 weeks of ex- of Agriculture’s, USDA, Animal and of the State with already skyrocketing tended benefits. Plant Health Inspection Service, unemployment. This bill will also provide an addi- APHIS. The program was intended to Yet in this time of economic uncer- tional stimulus to the Nation’s econ- prevent terrorism, and protect public tainty, when so many workers can’t omy. Leading economists tell us that and animal health and safety, while make ends meet because they have lost for every dollar the Federal Govern- not hampering legitimate research. their jobs, Senate Republicans today ment spends on unemployment bene- This is an obvious struggle that re- did as they have done so many times fits, it adds $1.64 to the national gross quires careful consideration, particu- this year on issues important to Amer- domestic product. larly when science is rapidly advancing ican families and said ‘‘no’’ to passing We know that people out of work use around the globe. a stand-alone unemployment benefits extended unemployment benefits to Under the USA PATRIOT Act, it is extension bill. meet the essential needs of their fami- illegal to possess ‘‘select agents’’ for This bill, passed with strong bipar- lies, to buy groceries and to pay bills. reasons other than legitimate research. tisan support by the House, could have With the much-needed resources this The Public Health Security and Bioter- been sent to the President immediately bill provides, jobless workers will help rorism Preparedness and Response Act so that unemployed workers who have inject money into the lagging econ- of 2002 further required laboratories exhausted their unemployment bene- omy. and laboratory personnel to undergo fits can get additional support while This bill is a win for struggling fami- background checks by the FBI prior to they try and find a new job. lies and a win for the Nation’s econ- approval for possession of select

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:12 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.031 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5687 agents. As of April 2008, there are 72 se- able more effective emergency State through this type of voluntary report- lect agents, meaning the agents pose a planning. State health officials are ing system. severe threat to public or animal currently not made aware of which In closing, I encourage my Senate health and safety. Thirteen of these agents are being studied within their colleagues to join Senator KENNEDY agents are found naturally in the State. This leaves medical responders, and me as we work to improve our Na- United States. There are 325 entities public health personnel, and animal tion’s biosecurity and biosafety sys- and 9,918 individuals registered with health officials unprepared for a poten- tems by passing S. 3127, the Select the CDC to work with select agents and tial release, whether accidental or in- Agent and Biosafety Improvement Act toxins, and 75 entities and 4,336 individ- tentional. of 2008. I thank the many researchers, uals registered with APHIS. Lastly, S. 3127 clarifies the statutory scientists, and State health officials We take four key actions in S. 3127 to definition of smallpox. The Intelligence from across the country who shared strengthen the Select Agent Program. and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 with me and my staff their ideas, expe- First, our legislation reauthorizes criminalized the use of variola virus, riences, and recommendations. In this the program through 2013 and calls for the agent that causes smallpox. The time of exciting scientific advances, we a comprehensive evaluation of the pro- statutory definition of the virus in- must ensure our laws and prevention gram. The review, to be conducted by cludes agents that are 85 percent iden- programs are updated to reflect cur- the National Academy of Sciences, will tical to the causative strain. Research- rent conditions. In addition, we must look at the effects of the program on ers are worried this could be inter- remain vigilant in our efforts to pro- international scientific collaboration preted to also include the strain used tect the American people from bioter- and domestic scientific advances. His- to develop the smallpox vaccine, as rorism. The Select Agent Program is torically, the United States has been well as less harmful naturally occur- an important part of ensuring the Na- an international leader in biosecurity. ring viruses. This sort of ambiguity tion’s safety and security and I look In fact, Canada recently proposed legis- could be detrimental to necessary med- forward to working with my colleagues lation to tighten safety and access to ical countermeasure research and de- to reauthorize and improve the pro- pathogens and toxins of concern for velopment. Our bill requires the Attor- gram. bioterrorism. Canada’s new legislation, ney General to issue guidance clari- released in April 2008, would establish a f fying the interpretation of this defini- mandatory licensing system to track HEALTH CARE tion. human pathogens, similar to our Select In addition, in this legislation we Mr. LAUTENBERG. Mr. President, I Agent Program. It also ensures compli- take three key actions to evaluate and ask unanimous consent to have printed ance with the country’s Laboratory enhance the safety and oversight of in the RECORD a letter dated May 15, Biosafety Guidelines across the coun- high containment laboratories. 2008, to Majority Leader REID, Speaker try. First, our bill evaluates existing PELOSI, Minority Leader MCCONNELL Second, the bill ensures a comprehen- oversight of BSL 3 and 4, or high con- and Minority Leader BOEHNER. sive list of select agents. Currently, tainment, labs. The bill requires an as- There being no objection, the mate- CDC and APHIS develop a list of agents sessment of whether current guidance rial was ordered to be printed in the and toxins to which the program regu- on infrastructure, commissioning, op- RECORD, as follows: lations apply. However, we believe eration, and maintenance of these labs MAY 15, 2008. some additional factors should be con- is adequate. As I mentioned, the num- Hon. HARRY REID, sidered in revising the list. For exam- ber of these labs is increasing around U.S. Senate, ple, scientific developments now make the globe. As these new facilities age, Washington, DC. it possible to create agents from we need to make sure they are appro- Hon. NANCY PELOSI, scratch or to modify them and make House of Representatives, them more deadly. Highly infectious priately maintained. It is essential Washington, DC. viruses or bacteria that are otherwise that laboratory workers and the public Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, difficult to obtain can now be created know these facilities are as safe as pos- U.S. Senate, by scientists using ‘‘synthetic sible. If the guidance we currently have Washington, DC. in place is not adequate, then we need Hon. JOHN BOEHNER, genomics’’. In addition, we now have House of Representatives, more information from the Department to know how to improve it. Second, the bill improves training for Washington, DC. of Homeland Security, DHS, about the laboratory workers. As the number of DEAR MAJORITY LEADER REID, SPEAKER threat posed by certain bioterrorism PELOSI, MINORITY LEADER MCCONNELL AND laboratories and personnel increases, agents. MINORITY LEADER BOEHNER: As representa- In 2002, U.S. researchers assembled we must ensure workers are appro- tives of non-partisan organizations com- the first synthetic virus using the ge- priately trained and lab accidents to mitted to improving health care for all chil- nome sequence for polio. Later, in 2005 not increase. Accidents and injuries in dren, we are writing to share our deep con- scientists reconstructed the 1918 pan- the lab, such as chemical burns and cern regarding the impact of the directive to flask explosions, may result from im- states that was issued by the HHS Centers demic influenza virus. Then in January for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on 2008, a ‘‘safe’’ form of Ebola was cre- proper use of equipment. Our bill devel- ops a set of minimum standards for August 17, 2007. In particular, we are con- ated synthetically. While this ‘‘safe’’ cerned that scores of children who are cur- Ebola can be used for legitimate re- training laboratory personnel in bio- rently enrolled in the State Children’s search to develop drugs and vaccines to safety and biosecurity, and encourages Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) will lose protect against it, a scientist could HHS and USDA to disseminate these coverage as a result of this policy change. also change it back to its lethal form. training standards for voluntary use in Unfortunately, the letter CMS sent to states Also, earlier this year, advancements other countries. on May 7, 2008, which seeks to clarify the di- in technology yielded the first syn- Finally, the bill establishes a vol- rective’s requirements, does not change the untary Biological Laboratory Incident policy outlined in the August 17 directive thetic bacterial genome. and, sadly, does nothing to mitigate its im- We must consider these scientific ad- Reporting System. This system will encourage personnel to report biosafety pact. States still must overcome serious hur- vances, including genetically modified dles before they can provide SCHIP coverage organisms and agents created syn- and biosecurity incidents of concern to uninsured children in working families thetically, if we are to address all and thereby allow us to learn from one and children—even those who lose a parent agents of concern. In addition, DHS’s another. Similar to the Aviation Safe- or whose parents become unemployed—will recent biological risk assessments pro- ty Reporting System, which gathers in- be subject to a one-year waiting period be- vide new information for our assess- formation on aviation accidents, this fore they will be eligible for coverage under ment of biological threats. This infor- system will help identify trends in bio- SCHIP. We urge Congress to enact legisla- safety and biosecurity incidents of con- tion that would impose a moratorium on the mation should also be considered when implementation of this directive. determining which agents and toxins cern and develop new protocols for As organizations committed to ensuring should be regulated. safety and security improvements. Lab that all of our nation’s children have access Next, the bill encourages sharing in- exposures to pathogens not on the se- to affordable health care coverage, we formation with State officials to en- lect agent list will also be captured strongly believe that no child in America

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We share your commit- Policy Center, Des Moines, IA; Children and Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children; Pre- ment to ensuring that federal health cov- Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyper Activ- vent Blindness America; Public Children erage programs make our nation’s lowest in- ity Disorder; and Child Welfare League of Services Association of Ohio; Public Health- come children the foremost priority, how- America. Seattle & King County, WA; Rhode Island ever, the CMS directive runs directly con- Children First for Oregon; Children Now, KIDS COUNT; Rural Health Association of trary to our common goal of covering Amer- Sacramento/Oakland, CA; Children’s Aid So- Tennessee; and Salt Lake County Mayor. ica’s poorest children first. The August 17 di- ciety; Children’s Dental Health Project; The Salt Lake Community Action Program; rective already is jeopardizing access to Children’s Health Fund; The Children’s Part- Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty health care for low-income children in at nership; Clinical Social Work Association; Law; SC Appleseed Legal Justice Center, Co- least 23 states. Moreover, recent reports by Colorado Children’s Campaign, Denver, CO; lumbia, SC; Service Employees International the Government Accountability Office (GAO) Colorado Community Health Network; Colo- Union; Southeastern Network of Youth and and the Congressional Research Service rado Organization on Adolescent Pregnancy, Family Services, Bonita Springs, FL; State- (CRS) affirm that the directive goes beyond Parenting, and Prevention; Community Ac- wide Parent Advocacy Network of New Jer- what is permissible under current law. Un- tion Partnership; Community Health Care sey; Tennessee Commission on Children and fortunately, CMS’ May 7, 2008 letter to states Association of New York State; Connecticut Youth; Tennessee Health Care Campaign; did not address these serious concerns. In Association for Human Services; Con- Tennessee Justice Center; Tennessee Pri- light of the directive’s impact on state ef- necticut Legal Services, Inc.; and Consumer mary Care Association; Texas Association of forts to provide coverage for uninsured chil- Health Coalition. Public and Nonprofit Hospitals; Texas Net- dren and the recent GAO and CRS findings, Corona-Norco United Way, CA; County work of Youth Services; The Arc of the we urge the House and Senate to take imme- Commissioners’ Association of Ohio; County United States; The Arc of Utah; and TII diate action to halt the implementation of Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania; CANN—Title II Community AIDS National the August 17 directive and restore states’ County Welfare Directors Association of Network. ability to determine how best to cover their California; Cystic Fibrosis Foundation; United Cerebral Palsy; United Neighbor- children. DePelchin Children’s Center, Houston, TX; hood Health Services, Inc.; United Spinal As- With more than nine million American Disability Rights Education and Defense sociation; United Way of America; United children lacking any form of health insur- Fund; Easter Seals; Educational Arts Team; Ways of California; United Way of Greater ance and nearly two-thirds of that number Families USA; Family Voices; Family High Point; United Way of Hudson County; already eligible for Medicaid or SCHIP, we Voices-NJ; FAMIS Outreach Project, United Ways of Louisiana; United Way of must do all we can to reduce coverage bar- Radford, VA; FRESC: Good Jobs Strong Pennsylvania; United Ways of Texas; Utah riers, not add additional ones. This directive Communities; and Greater Hartford Legal Covering Kids & Families Coalition; Visiting already is having a chilling effect on states, Aid, Inc., CT. Homemaker Services of Hudson County; Healthy York Network, York, PA; Health stalling efforts in several states that were Voices for America’s Children; Voices for Care For All Massachusetts; HIV Medicine poised to enact policy changes to improve Children, NE; Voices for Ohio’s Children; Association; Hudson Perinatal Consortium, coverage of uninsured children. Halting the Voices for Utah Children; Washington Health Inc., Jersey City, NJ; Immunization Action implementation of this directive is essential Foundation; and Washington Physicians for Coalition; Indiana Primary Health Care As- if we are to tackle the coverage crisis facing Social Responsibility. our nation’s most vulnerable children. No sociation; Intermoutain Pediatric Society; child in America should lose their health Iowa/Nebraska Primary Care Association; f coverage as a result of philosophical dif- Jersey City Library Literacy Program; Legal MACKINAC ISLAND STATE PARK ferences in Washington, D.C. Our nation Assistance Resource Center of CT; Legisla- must do better for our children. tive Coalition for People with Disabilities Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I am We know you agree that our children are (Utah); Maine Children’s Alliance; Maryland pleased that the Senate is acting on our nation’s most precious resource and that Women’s Coalition for Health Care Reform; the House Concurrent Resolution, H. investments in health care for kids reap ben- Maternal and Child Health Access, Los Ange- Con. Res. 325, which was introduced by efits that last a lifetime. We welcome the op- les, CA; and Maternity Care Coalition, Phila- Congressman STUPAK and recognizes portunity to discuss these issues with you delphia, PA. the celebration of the 50th anniversary and to work with you to be sure that all of Mental Health America; Medicaid Health our nation’s children have access to the Plans of America; Mental Health/Mental Re- of the Mackinac Island State Park health care services and coverage they need. tardation Program Administrators of Penn- Commission’s Historical Preservation Sincerely, sylvania; Methodist Healthcare Ministries, and Museum Program. This anniver- First Focus; American Association of San Antonio, TX; Miami-Dade County; sary, which will take place on June 15, School Administrators; LEAnet; National Michigan County Social Services Associa- 2008, honors the work of the Commis- Association of Community Health Centers; tion; Michigan’s Children; Montview Boule- sion to protect, preserve, and commu- PICO National Network; The 2010 Cover All vard Presbyterian Church Health Care Task nicate the rich history and natural Kids Initiative; AARP; Action for Children Force, Denver, CO; Mountain Youth Re- North Carolina; Alliance for Excellent Edu- sources; National Association for the Edu- wonders of Mackinac Island. cation; American Academy of HIV Medicine; cation of Young Children; National Associa- Located in the heart of the Great American Academy of Nursing; American tion of Children’s Hospitals; National Asso- Lakes, between Michigan’s Upper and Academy of Pediatrics; American Academy ciation of Counties; National Association of Lower Peninsulas, Mackinac Island is of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania Chapter; Amer- County Behavioral Health and Develop- an important part of this Nation’s his- ican Academy of Pediatrics Utah; and Amer- mental Disability Directors; National Asso- tory. In colonial years, the island pro- ican Association of People with Disabilities. ciation of County Human Services Adminis- vided strategic fur-trading posts for American College of Obstetricians and trators; and National Association of Pedi- French, British, and American settle- Gynecologists; American Dental Education atric Nurse Practitioners. Association; American Humane Association; National Association of School Psycholo- ments. During the Civil War, Britain’s American Medical Women’s Association; gists; National Association of Social Work- Fort Mackinac was established on this American Music Therapy Association; Amer- ers; National Association of State Directors island and the fort was also used dur- ican Network of Community Options and Re- of Special Education; National Council for ing the War of 1812. In 1817, the village sources, ANCOR; American Nurses Associa- Community Behavioral Healthcare; National of Mackinac was incorporated and tion; American Psychiatric Association; Council of Jewish Women; National Council served as the seat for the territorial American Public Health Association; An- of Urban Indian Health; National Down Syn- county of Michilimackinac, which cov- chorage School District, AK; Anchorage’s drome Congress; National Federation of ered much of what is now Michigan. It Promise, AK; Association for Community Af- Families for Children’s Mental Health; Na- filiated Plans; Association of Clinicians for tional Health Law Program, NHeLP; Na- also functioned as the seat of Mackinac the Underserved, ACU; Association of Wom- tional Hispanic Health Foundation; National County from 1849 through 1882. The is- en’s Health, Obstetric & Neonatal Nurses, Hispanic Medical Association; National land was considered a sacred place to AWHONN; and Autism Society of America. Partnership for Women & Families; National Native Americans and functioned as a Bayonne Jewish Community Center, NJ; Women’s Law Center; New Haven Legal As- tribal gathering place and burial site. Bayonne YMCA, NJ; Bazelon Center for Men- sistance Association; and New Mexico Alli- Today, the island is a popular tourism tal Health Law; Bedford Youth & Family ance for School-Based Health Care. destination where people can relax, Services, MA; The Black Children’s Institute New Mexico Voices for Children; NH of Tennessee; California State Association of Healthy Kids Corp; Organization of Chinese enjoy nature, and learn about history. Counties; Catholic Charities of the Arch- Americans, OCA; Ohio Child Support En- Since its inception in 1895, the Mack- diocese of Newark; Catholic Charities USA; forcement Agency Directors’ Association; inac Island State Park Commission has Catholic Healthcare West; Center for Public Ohio Job and Family Services Directors’ As- been actively engaged in a variety of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:12 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.007 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5689 restoration activities and has worked 11TH ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL Half of the Nation’s elderly widows liv- to interpret and communicate the mul- HEALTH SCREENINGS ing in poverty did not face economic tiple stories of this important island to Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I would hardships before the deaths of their millions of visitors. The Commission like to bring to the Chamber’s atten- husbands. Men between the ages of 45 has participated in a number of initia- tion the 11th Annual Congressional and 54 are three times more likely to tives, including archeological exca- Health Screenings and I would like to die of heart attacks, 1.5 times more vation, lighthouse restoration, and ex- commend my colleague, Senator SHEL- likely to die from heart disease, and 1.5 hibit installation, to protect and man- BY, for his leadership at this event. The times more likely to die from cancer age the historic resources of the park. Congressional Health Screenings occur than women. The U.S. Congress recognized the sig- each year during National Men’s Half of the estimated 54,000 men diag- nificance of Mackinac when it estab- Health Week the week prior to Fa- nosed this year with colon cancer will lished the Mackinac Island National ther’s Day. I encourage all of my col- die from it. Over 185,000 men are ex- Park in 1875, making it the Nation’s leagues and their staffs to participate pected to develop prostate cancer in second National Park after Yellow- in these screenings. As U.S. Senators, 2008—almost 15 percent of these cases stone. In 1895, park ownership was we must set an example and not only are expected to be terminal. Preventive transferred to the State of Michigan, encourage healthy habits but practice measures, such as prostate specific creating Michigan’s first State park. In them as well. This year’s program of- antigen exams, blood pressure and cho- 1958, the Mackinac Island State Park fers a number of convenient screenings, lesterol screens, and routine self-test- Commission established the Historical including prostate specific antigen, ing exams for these and other types of Preservation and Museum Program. PSA, cholesterol, glucose, blood pres- cancers that target men can lead to in- This program has served as the pri- sure, and body fat tests, as well as valuable early detection that will in- mary caretaker and purveyor of the Is- health education materials. The pur- crease the survival rates for such can- land’s considerable tale. I am pleased pose of this event is to increase our cers by almost 100 percent. to extend my warmest congratulations awareness of health issues and to help In addition, I must reiterate the need to those individuals involved with this develop comprehensive strategies to for an Office of Men’s Health in the program who have painstakingly re- improve our health and that of our U.S. Department of Health and Human stored and preserved Mackinac Island families. Services to tackle many of these afore- for future generations. The state of men’s health has become mentioned issues. Last year, I intro- a national crisis. Because of poor duced S. 640, the Men’s Health Act, f health habits, lack of health insurance, which would establish such an office. TRIBUTE TO JOHN ENGBER failure to seek timely medical atten- The Office on Women’s Health in the tion, and dangerous occupations, men department does a fantastic job of sav- Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I rise are afflicted with more maladies and ing the lives of thousands of women today to recognize John Engber for his die younger than women. Today, men and improving the lives of many more. 11 years of service to the U.S. Senate are living approximately 5 fewer years Similarly, an Office of Men’s Health and the people of Washington State. than that of their female counterparts would provide a support network that John served as my State Director dur- and are dying at higher rates for 9 out would reach out to all men on issues ing this time, and he was a critical of the Nation’s top 10 causes of death. related to men’s health. part of my staff. On June 1, he ended This includes death from cancer, diabe- In closing, I thank the Men’s Health his tenure in my office. We were sad to tes, suicide, accidents, and diseases of Network for hosting the 11th Annual see him go, but we wish him all the the heart, kidney, and liver. When Congressional Health Screenings. I best in his next endeavor. speaking about cancer, it is important hope that my colleagues and their John was a thoughtful and dedicated to note that one in two men in his life- staffs will take this unique opportunity public servant. As my State Director, time will be diagnosed with cancer and to not only better their own health, he helped ensure that even though one in six will be diagnosed with pros- but to encourage the people around Washington State residents are 2,500 tate cancer. them to do the same. miles from DC, their needs are up-front The Men’s Health Network, along f and center. Overseeing my State oper- with Women Against Prostate Cancer, ations, he was responsible for listening use National Men’s Health Week to em- ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS to the people in our communities and phasize the fact that prostate health for connecting them to the Senate and issues and prostate cancer is not mere- TRIBUTE TO MONROE ROTARY the Federal Government. And thanks ly a ‘‘man’s disease.’’ Each year thou- CLUB to his hard work, residents of towns sands of wives, daughters, sisters, and from Forks to Clarkston have access to friends are impacted—often in dev- ∑ Mr. VITTER. Mr. President, I wish to me and my office. astating ways—by the loss and/or suf- honor the Monroe Rotary Club, which One of John’s greatest accomplish- fering of a man from prostate health is celebrating its 90th anniversary this ments during his time with my office issues. Early and regular screenings month, and I would like to take a few was his help in drafting the recently significantly increase the chance of moments to publicly recognize their enacted Wild Sky Wilderness law. John early detection and successful treat- great history. worked closely with local leaders, the ment. The Rotary Club of Monroe was environmental community, outdoor en- I am pleased to report that we are founded on April 29, 1918, with a mem- thusiasts, and others to create a wil- steadily making progress. Last year bership of 31; however, they did not re- derness proposal built on community during September’s Prostate Aware- ceive their charter until June of 1918. consensus. We faced some tremendous ness Month, Men’s Health Network and The stated purpose of the organization obstacles over the 9 years that we the Washington Redskins held a pros- is to bring together business and pro- worked on the bill, but John helped us tate screening at FedEx Field in Land- fessional leaders to provide humani- all remain dedicated to the goal of pre- over, MD. Over 300 people gathered to tarian service, encourage high ethical serving Wild Sky for future genera- help their fathers, grandfathers, sons, standards in all vocations, and help tions. uncles, and friends move one step clos- build goodwill and peace in the world. Finally, I would like to thank John er toward a happier, healthier future. In order to carry out its service pro- for his years of service to me and the Five of the gentlemen screened had po- grams, Rotary is structured in club, people of Washington State. His leader- tentially dangerous PSA readings. district, and international levels. ship and his dedication are truly appre- There is no better time than now to In furtherance of the goals of Rotary, ciated, and I know that he will always become more proactive with regard to the Rotary Club of Monroe has spon- have Washington State’s interests at men’s health. Women are 100-percent sored many local projects including, heart. I wish him happiness and success more likely than men to regularly visit scholarships at the University of Lou- as he moves on to the next phase of his their doctors for annual examinations isiana at Monroe, Goodfellows, Boy career. and to seek out preventative services. Scouts, Girl Scouts, Monroe Youth

VerDate Aug 31 2005 01:12 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.023 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5690 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 Baseball, The Food Bank of Northeast sublease of certain property described in EC–6625. A communication from the Dep- Louisiana, Camp Quality, The Salva- such Act to an entity other than a foreign uty Secretary of Defense, transmitting, pur- tion Army, and Girl’s and Boy’s State, government or international organization if suant to law, the Office of Inspector Gen- certain conditions are met. eral’s Semiannual Report for the period of to name a few. In addition they also October 1, 2007, through March 31, 2008; to sponsor Interact Clubs at Neville High the Committee on Homeland Security and School and River Oaks High School and ENROLLED BILLS PRESENTED Governmental Affairs. sponsor two students each year to at- EC–6626. A communication from the Chair- tend District 6190’s Camp RYLA—Ro- The Secretary of the Senate reported man, Council of the District of Columbia, tary Youth Leadership Award, a pro- that on today, June 17, 2008, she had transmitting, pursuant to law, a report on gram for young people intended to de- presented to the President of the D.C. Act 17–403 , ‘‘Omnibus Domestic Part- nership Equality Amendment Act of 2008’’ re- velop qualities of leadership, good citi- United States the following enrolled bills: ceived on June 13, 2008; to the Committee on zenship, and personal development. Homeland Security and Governmental Af- S. 1245. An act to reform mutual aid agree- Each year the members of the Rotary fairs. Club of Monroe also open their homes ments for the National Capital Region. EC–6627. A communication from the Staff S. 2516. An act to assist members of the to members of the Rotary Foundation’s Director, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Armed Forces in obtaining United States transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- Group Study Exchange program. They citizenship, and for other purposes. have proudly participated in this pro- ative to the Commission’s recent appoint- f ment of members to the Wyoming Advisory gram for many years hosting teams Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- from India, France, Norway, England, EXECUTIVE AND OTHER ary. Brazil, Australia, Scotland, Belgium, COMMUNICATIONS EC–6628. A communication from the Staff Japan, Austria and several other coun- The following communications were Director, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, tries. Additionally many of their mem- laid before the Senate, together with transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- bers have traveled abroad as a part of ative to the Commission’s recent appoint- accompanying papers, reports, and doc- ment of members to the Kentucky Advisory the Friendship Exchange, where Rotar- uments, and were referred as indicated: Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- ians seek opportunities to visit other EC–6617. A communication from the Acting ary. districts throughout the world. Assistant Director, Directives and Regula- EC–6629. A communication from the Staff Today, I applaud the Rotary Club of tions Branch, Department of Agriculture, Director, U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, Monroe on their 90th anniversary and transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- thank them for their continued service a rule entitled ‘‘Clarifying Prohibitions for ative to the Commission’s recent appoint- to the state of Louisiana and the rest Failure to Maintain Control of Fires That ment of members to the Florida Advisory Committee; to the Committee on the Judici- of the world.∑ Damage National Forest System Lands’’ (RIN0596–AC30) received on June 17 , 2008; to ary. f the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, f and Forestry. NOTIFICATION OF THE DESIGNA- PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS TION OF SHARA L. ARANOFF AS EC–6618. A communication from the Gen- eral Counsel, National Oceanic and Atmos- CHAIRMAN AND DANIEL PEAR- The following petitions and memo- pheric Administration, Department of Com- rials were laid before the Senate and SON AS VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE merce, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- UNITED STATES INTERNATIONAL were referred or ordered to lie on the port of a rule entitled ‘‘Civil Procedures’’ table as indicated: TRADE COMMISSION, EFFECTIVE (RIN0648–AS54) received on June 16, 2008; to JUNE 17, 2008—PM 52 the Committee on Commerce, Science, and POM–370. A resolution adopted by the Transportation. North Carolina State Council of the Junior The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be- EC–6619. A communication from the Assist- Order United American Mechanics express- fore the Senate the following message ant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works), ing its support of the men and women of the from the President of the United transmitting, pursuant to law, the final re- Armed Forces; to the Committee on Armed States, together with an accompanying port for the Illinois River Basin Restoration Services. POM–371. A resolution adopted by the Comprehensive Plan; to the Committee on report; which was referred to the Com- Council of the Village of Elida, Ohio, ex- Environment and Public Works. mittee on Finance: pressing its opposition to H.R. 3359; to the EC–6620. A communication from the Chair- To the Congress of the United States: Committee on Finance. man, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, trans- POM–372. A resolution adopted by the Consistent with the provisions of 19 mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to Commission of the City of Miami, Florida, U.S.C. 1330(c)(1), this is to notify the new types of information that have been des- urging Congress to grant temporary protec- Congress that I have designated Shara ignated to be protected as ‘‘Safeguards Infor- tive status to Haitians in the United States; L. Aranoff as Chairman and Daniel mation’’; to the Committee on Environment to the Committee on the Judiciary. Pearson as Vice Chairman of the and Public Works. POM–373. A resolution adopted by the EC–6621. A communication from the Chair- North Carolina State Council of the Junior United States International Trade man, U.S. International Trade Commission, Commission, effective June 17, 2008. Order United American Mechanics express- transmitting, pursuant to law, a report enti- ing its support for the establishment of the GEORGE W. BUSH. tled, ‘‘Textiles and Apparel: Effects of Spe- English language as the official language of THE WHITE HOUSE, June 17, 2008. cial Rules for Haiti on Trade Markets and In- the United States; to the Committee on the f dustries’’; to the Committee on Finance. Judiciary. EC–6622. A communication from the Assist- POM–374. A resolution adopted by the MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, North Carolina State Council of the Junior Department of State, transmitting, pursuant Order United American Mechanics urging to law , a report by the U.S. Global AIDS Co- Congress to resolve the immigration issues; ENROLLED BILLS SIGNED ordinator on the Involvement of Faith-Based to the Committee on the Judiciary. The President pro tempore (Mr. Organizations in the Global Fund to Fight POM–375. A concurrent resolution adopted by the House of Representatives of the State BYRD) announced that on today, June AIDS; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- of Louisiana urging Congress to enact legis- 17, 2008, he had signed the following en- tions. EC–6623. A communication from the Assist- lation limiting increases in health insurance rolled bills, which were previously ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, premiums and other costs; to the Committee signed by the Speaker of the House: Department of State, transmitting, pursuant on Armed Services. S. 1245. An act to reform mutual aid agree- to law , a semi-annual report relative to the HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 123 ments for the National Capital Region. compliance of several countries with the Whereas, H.R. 579, the Military Retirees S. 2516. An act to assist members of the freedom of emigration provisions of the 1974 Health Protection Act, and S. 604, the Mili- Armed Forces in obtaining United States Trade Act; to the Committee on Foreign Re- tary Health Care Protection Act, have been citizenship, and for other purposes. lations. pending in the United States Congress since H.R. 3179. An act to amend title 40, United EC–6624. A communication from the Assist- February of 2007; and States Code, to authorize the use of Federal ant Secretary, Office of Legislative Affairs, Whereas, S. 604 would bar the TRICARE supply schedules for the acquisition of law Department of State, transmitting, pursuant Prime enrollment fee and TRICARE phar- enforcement, security, and certain other re- to law , a report relative to the U.S. military macy copayments from being increased in lated items by State and local governments. personnel and civilian contractors involved any year by a percentage that exceeds the H.R. 3913. An act to amend the Inter- in the anti-narcotics campaign in Colombia; percentage increase in military retiree pay; national Center Act to authorize the lease or to the Committee on Foreign Relations. and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17JN6.015 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5691 Whereas, S. 604 also would bar any enroll- Whereas, any percentage increase in fees, POM–377. A concurrent resolution adopted ment fee or any increase in the TRICARE deductibles, and copayments that may be by the General Assembly of the State of Ohio Standard or any increase in the TRICARE considered under the TRICARE program for urging Congress to renew the exemption for Standard inpatient copayments and would retired members of the uniformed services the sternwheel river steamboat Delta Queen bar TRICARE Reserve Select premiums from and their families or survivors should not in from the 1966 Safety at Sea Act; to the Com- being increased by a percentage that exceeds any case exceed the percentage increase in mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- the most recent basic pay increases; and military retired pay. Therefore, be it tation. Whereas, H.R. 579 contains similar provi- Resolved, That the Legislature of Louisiana HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 36 sions to limit certain increases in health in- does hereby memorialize the United States Whereas, The sternwheel river steamboat surance premiums, deductibles, copayments, Congress to enact legislation limiting cer- Delta Queen, built in 1926, has been trans- and other charges of military retirees for tain increases in health insurance premiums, porting passengers on the Western Rivers their military health benefits; and deductibles, copayments, and other charges system since 1947. It is one of only two Whereas, career members in the uniformed of military retirees for their military health sternwheel river passenger boats operating services and their families endure unique benefits being proposed by the Department under steam and is the sole remaining West- and extraordinary demands and make ex- of Defense. Be it further ern Rivers system overnight passenger boat; traordinary sacrifices over the course of Resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be and twenty- to thirty-year careers in protecting transmitted to the presiding officers of the Whereas, The Delta Queen serves as a re- freedom for all Americans; and Senate and the House of Representatives of minder of a time when steamboats trans- Whereas, the demands and sacrifices are the Congress of the United States of America ported people and supplies on the rivers of such that few Americans are willing to bear and to each member of the Louisiana con- the United States. Life on the steamboat or accept them for a multiyear career; and gressional delegation. Whereas, a primary benefit of enduring the today is much as it was in the 1920s, a relax- extraordinary sacrifices inherent in a mili- ing 8- to 10-mile-an-hour pace with no mod- POM–376. A resolution adopted by the ern electronic distractions such as television tary career is a range of extraordinary re- House of Representatives of the State of tirement benefits that a grateful Nation pro- and the Internet; and Rhode Island expressing its opposition to Whereas, The Delta Queen carries 174 over- vides for those who choose to subordinate federal proposals to authorize increases in night passengers and is currently exempt much of their personal life for the national the size or weight of commercial motor vehi- from the 1966 Safety at Sea Act, which pro- interest for so many years; and cles; to the Committee on Commerce, hibits wooden boats from carrying more than Whereas, many private sector firms are Science, and Transportation. curtailing health benefits and shifting sig- 50 overnight passengers. However, this ex- nificantly higher costs to their employees, HOUSE RESOLUTION 8296 emption is set to expire at the end of 2008, and one effect of such curtailment is that re- Whereas, The State of Rhode Island is com- and influential members of the Congress of tired members of the uniformed services are mitted to protecting the safety of motorists the United States have stated that they are turning to health care services from the De- on its highways and to protecting taxpayers’ planning on not renewing the exemption, an partment of Defense and its TRICARE pro- investment in our highway infrastructure; action that would eliminate this important gram for the health care benefits in retire- and reminder of Ohio’s and America’s history; ment that they earned by their service in Whereas, The General Assembly of the now therefore be it Resolved, That we, the members of the uniform; and State of Rhode Island and Providence Plan- Whereas, while the Department of Defense tations resolved jointly to urge the Congress 127th General Assembly of the State of Ohio, has made some efforts to contain increases of the United States to oppose proposals to urge the Congress of the United States to in the cost of the TRICARE program, a large increase truck size or weight limitations in renew the exemption for the sternwheel river part of these efforts has been devoted to 1997 (Assembly Joint Resolution No. 8) and steamboat Delta Queen from the 1966 Safety shifting a larger share of the costs of bene- 2003 (Senate Joint Resolution No. 7) because at Sea Act so that it can continue to carry fits under that program to retired members of the threat that longer combination vehi- overnight passengers on the Western Rivers of the uniformed services; and cles and other larger trucks present to high- system; and be it further Whereas, the cumulative increase in en- way safety; and Resolved, That the Clerk of the House of rollment fees, deductibles, and copayments Whereas, There are proposals to include in- Representatives send duly authenticated being proposed by the Department of Defense creases in the size or weight of commercial copies of this resolution to the Speaker and for health care benefits under the TRICARE motor vehicles, including triple-trailer the Clerk of the United States House of Rep- program far exceeds the thirty-three percent trucks, in legislation reauthorizing federal resentatives, to the President Pro Tempore increase in military retired pay since such transportation funding, which will be consid- and the Secretary of the United States Sen- fees, deductibles, and copayments were first ered in the United States Congress in 2009; ate, to the members of the Ohio Congres- required on the part of retired members of and sional delegation, and to the news media of the uniformed services eleven years ago; and Whereas, Recent events have focused pub- Ohio. Whereas, proposals of the Department of lic concern on the quality of our highway in- Defense for increases in the enrollment fees, frastructure, especially bridges; and POM–378. A concurrent resolution adopted deductibles, and copayments of retired mem- Whereas, Federal and state studies have by the Senate of the State of Louisiana urg- bers of the uniformed services who are par- found that increasing the size and weight of ing Congress to establish grant programs to ticipants of the TRICARE program fail to commercial motor vehicles may accelerate mitigate the damages caused by the opening recognize adequately that such members the deterioration of bridges and highway in- of the Bonnet Carre Spillway; to the Com- paid the equivalent of enormous in-kind pre- frastructure; and mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- miums for health care in retirement through Whereas, The extent of damage to bridges tation. their extended sacrifices by service in uni- that would be caused by operations of bigger SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 51 form; and and heavier commercial vehicles is un- Whereas, on April 11, 2008, the United Whereas, some of the nation’s health care known; and States Army Corps of Engineers opened the providers refuse to accept participants in the Whereas, The 2007 National Bridge Inven- Bonnet Carre Spillway for the first time in TRICARE program as patients because that tory maintained by the Federal Highway Ad- eleven years for the purpose of preventing program pays them significantly less than ministration classified 53% of bridges in flooding in the New Orleans area; and commercial insurance programs and imposes Rhode Island as having been rated struc- Whereas, the seafood industry in St. Tam- unique administrative requirements for turally deficient or functionally obsolete; many, St. Bernard, Orleans, and Plaque- health care services; and now, therefore be it mines parishes have been negatively im- Whereas, the Department of Defense and Resolved, That this House of Representa- pacted by the opening of the Bonnet Cane the Nation have a committed obligation to tives of the State of Rhode Island and Provi- Spillway. Therefore, be it provide health care benefits to retired mem- dence Plantations hereby reaffirms its oppo- Resolved, That the Legislature of Louisiana bers of the uniformed services that exceeds sition to proposals, at all levels of govern- does hereby memorialize the United States the obligation of corporate employers to pro- ment, that would authorize increases in the Congress to establish a grant program to as- vide health care benefits to their employees; size and weight of commercial motor vehi- sist the seafood industry in St. Tammany, and cles because of the impact that these in- St. Bernard, Orleans, and Plaquemines par- Whereas, the Department of Defense has creases would have on highway infrastruc- ishes. Be it further many additional options to constrain the ture, especially bridges; and be it further Resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be growth of health care spending in ways that Resolved, That the Secretary of State be transmitted to the secretary of the United do not disadvantage retired members of the and he hereby is authorized and directed to States Senate and the clerk of the United uniformed services who participate in the transmit duly certified copies of this resolu- States House of Representatives and to each TRICARE program and should pursue any tion to the President and Vice President of member of the Louisiana con ssional delega- and all such options rather than seek large the United States, the Speaker of the United tion. increases for enrollment fees, deductibles, States House of Representatives, the Major- and copayments for such retirees and their ity Leader of the United States Senate and POM–379. A concurrent resolution adopted families or survivors who do participate in the Rhode Island Delegation to the Congress by the Senate of the State of Louisiana urg- the program; and of the United States. ing Congress to oppose the authorization of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.025 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5692 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 offshore aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico; a billion dollars, and the oil and gas indus- migrants or other legally resident non-citi- to the Committee on Commerce, Science, tries have an even greater economic impact zens in terms of their ability to reside, work, and Transportation. in this state, with accompanying tax reve- and attend school in the U.S.; and Whereas, despite losing access to federal SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 36 nues that fund many of the services provided by the state; and funds for services to COFA migrants because Whereas, there is currently pending before Whereas, the development of deepwater of PRWORA, the State of Hawaii has contin- Congress the National Offshore Aquaculture fish farms off the coast of Louisiana could ued to make the services available through Act of 2007, which authorizes the secretary of have a tremendous negative impact on both equivalent state-funded services to address the United States Department of Commerce these industries which could, in turn, have a the social, educational, public safety, and to establish and implement a regulatory sys- tremendous negative impact on the tax reve- medical needs of COFA citizens who legally tem for offshore aquaculture in the Exclu- nues received by the state from the indus- reside in the state, just as it provides them sive Economic Zone; and tries and related transactions, thereby caus- to other legal residents; and Whereas, despite the absence of statutory ing a reduction in the funds available for Whereas, the State has consistently re- authority in the Magnusson-Stevens Fish- state expenditure. Therefore, be it ported increasing costs each year for the eries Conservation Act to provide a frame- Resolved, That the Legislature of Louisiana services provided to COFA migrants, the ma- work for development of deepwater fish jority of which are not reimbursed by the does hereby memorialize the United States farms, the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Manage- federal government; and Congress to oppose the authorization of off- ment Council has nevertheless proposed im- Whereas, in 2006, the cost reported by the shore aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico. Be plementation of a regulatory system for ma- state agencies to provide services for COFA it further rine aquaculture in federal waters off the migrants was over $91,000,000, while the fed- Resolved, That a copy of this Resolution coast of Louisiana; and eral assistance to the State as Compact Im- shall be transmitted to the secretary of the Whereas, as drafted, the proposed plans en- pact Assistance was approximately United States Senate and the clerk of the vision the use of large containment cages lo- $10,600,000; and United States House of Representatives, to cated between two and three hundred miles Whereas, the federal government created each member of the Louisiana delegation, to off the coast of Louisiana; and the relationship with the Freely Associated the National Marine Fisheries Service of the States that allows their citizens to freely re- Whereas, the cages are proposed to be filled National Oceanographic and Atmospheric with numerous fish and to be located on or side in the U.S. with few limitations; and Administration, and to the Gulf of Mexico Whereas, extending eligibility for federal near oil and gas rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, Fisheries Management Council. without any restrictions as to the location of assistance to the COFA migrants would better support the purposes underlying the such cages; and POM–380. A resolution adopted by the COFA; and Whereas, past experiences with aqua- House of Representatives of the State of Ha- Whereas, providing federal assistance for culture operations of this nature have re- waii expressing its support for assistance for COFA migrants additionally would alleviate sulted in increased pollution of the sur- persons present in the United States under much of the burden on the State’s budget rounding waters due to concentrated the Compacts of Free Association; to the while still maintaining the same level of amounts of fish food, fish waste, and chemi- Committee on Energy and Natural Re- services for the COFA migrants; and cals and antibiotics used to treat the caged sources. Whereas, the Governor has repeatedly sug- fish, and have resulted in damaged cages gested in reports and letters to the U.S. De- HOUSE RESOLUTION floating free, interfering with maritime com- partment of the Interior that COFA mi- merce and endangering others attempting to Whereas, in 1986, the United States (U.S.) grants should be made eligible for federal fi- use the surrounding waters; and entered into a Compact of Free Association nancial assistance, and Hawaii’s Congres- Wheres, additional concerns about the de- (COFA or Compact) with the Federated sional Delegation has consistently supported velopment of deepwater fish farming include States of Micronesia and the Republic of the the idea of extending federal assistance to potential genetic damage to both the farmed Marshall Islands and, in 1994, the U.S. en- COFA migrants; and fish in the cages and the wild fish in the sur- tered into a similar Compact with the Re- Whereas, in 2007, Senator Akaka and Sen- rounding waters, the spread of disease among public of Palau that created a unique rela- ator Inouye introduced a bill in the United the farmed fish and the wild fish, and the tionship between the U.S. and the Freely As- States Senate, S. 1676, which would extend stress that the farms would put on forage sociated States; and eligibility for certain federal benefits to fish, such as menhaden; and Whereas, the terms of the Compacts set COFA migrants legally residing in the U.S.; Wheres, Louisiana is known for its seafood out mutually beneficial rights and obliga- and and for its devotion to fishing the Gulf of tions in several areas, including economic Whereas, in 2007, Representative Aber- Mexico for a myriad of fish, all of which may development and defense, and created the crombie and Representative Hirono intro- be impacted by the establishment of deep- right of citizens from the Freely Associated duced a bill in the United States House of water aquaculture facilities in the very areas States to freely travel to, and work and re- Representatives, H.R. 4000, which would ex- where our commercial and recreational fish- side in, the U.S. without durational limit; tend eligibility for certain federal benefits to ermen pursue their passion for fishing; and and COFA migrants legally residing in the U.S.; Whereas, Louisiana is also known for its Whereas, a significant number of COFA now, therefore, be it oil and gas industry, much of which is now citizens travel to and reside in the State of Resolved, By the House of Representatives located offshore in the very areas where Hawaii; and of the Twenty-fourth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2008, these fish farms are likely to be located and Whereas, many COFA migrants arrive in that this body supports the bills currently in where the large containment cages may the state with serious medical needs, and Congress, S. 1676 and H.R. 4000, and urges break their moorings during hurricanes, add- many need financial assistance or housing that the bills be heard and moved out of ing to the damage to oil and gas rigs during assistance because of the relative lack of re- Committee, to receive the consideration of times of inclement weather; and sources they have available; and the full Senate and the full House of Rep- Whereas, there has been little in-depth re- Whereas, when the Compacts were initially resentatives, and further to encourage Con- search conducted into the unintended con- executed, Congress recognized there could be gress and the President to enact the bills sequences of deepwater fish farming, particu- a significant effect on the resources of the into law, which would benefit COFA mi- larly in the Gulf of Mexico, and it appears places to which the COFA citizens migrated grants in the U.S. regardless of the state or that the Gulf of Mexico Fisheries Manage- and explicitly stated that, ‘‘it is not the intent territory in which they reside and support ment Council is acting too quickly to enact of Congress to cause any adverse consequences the stated intent of Congress that the rela- rules allowing the establishment of deep- for an affected jurisdiction’’ P.L. 108–188, sec- tionship created by the Compacts not cause water fish farms in the Gulf of Mexico and, tion 104(e)(1) (emphasis added); and adverse consequences to the states; and be it in fact, is acting in advance of congressional Whereas, in 1997, Congress passed the Per- further direction to begin development and imple- sonal Responsibility Work Opportunities Resolved, That the Department of Labor mentation of such a program; and Reconciliation Act (PRWORA), which pro- and Industrial Relations Office of Language Whereas, Louisiana has had little input vided that most non-citizens in the U.S., Access is requested to provide its services to into the development of the regulatory sys- with limited exceptions, became ineligible citizens of COFA nations, and that other pro- tem that would govern deepwater fish farm- for federally-funded welfare programs includ- grams that may be available to individuals ing, an industry that has every potential for ing Temporary Assistance for Needy Fami- whose first language is not English be pro- dramatic impact on Louisiana’s commercial lies, Medicaid, Food Stamps, and Supple- vided to citizens of COFA nations; and be it and recreational fishing industries, the larg- mental Security Income; and further est such industry in the continental United Whereas, COFA migrants were among the Resolved, That certified copies of this Reso- States; and non-citizen groups excluded by PRWORA, lution be transmitted to the President of the Whereas, the recreational and commercial and not included as one of the exceptions, de- United States, all members of Congress, the fishing industries in this state combine for spite the fact that they are legal residents in Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of an annual economic impact well in excess of the U.S. and are more like citizens than im- Health and Human Services, the Secretary of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.018 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5693 Agriculture, the Governor, the President of Utah; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- (4) the Speaker of the Navajo Nation Coun- the Republic of Palau, the President of the ural Resources. cil; Federated States of Micronesia, and the HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 4 (5) the board of trustees of the Navajo President of the Republic of the Marshall Is- Trust Fund; and Whereas, in 1933 Congress added federal lands. (6) the Dineh Committee of the Navajo lands located in San Juan County to the Trust Fund. Navajo reservation and directed Utah to re- POM–381. A concurrent resolution adopted ceive 37.5% of oil and gas royalties from by the Legislature of the State of Utah urg- POM–383. A resolution adopted by the those lands for ‘‘the tuition of Indian chil- ing Congress to pass the Rights-of-way Rec- House of Representatives of the State of Ha- dren in white schools and/or the building or ognition Act; to the Committee on Energy waii urging Congress to agree to an econ- maintenance of roads . . . or for the benefit and Natural Resources. omy-wide reduction in its greenhouse gas of Indians residing therein’’; emissions; to the Committee on Energy and HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 5 Whereas, in 1968 Congress amended the Natural Resources. Whereas, in 1866, the United States Con- purposes for which the 37.5% of oil and gas gress passed an open-ended grant of ‘‘the royalties are to be expended to be ‘‘for the HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 53 right-of-way for the construction of high- health, education, and general welfare of the Whereas, the White House is convening a ways over public lands, not reserved for pub- Navajo Indians residing in San Juan County, Major Economies Meeting on Energy Secu- lic uses’’; Utah’’; rity and Climate Change with seventeen in- Whereas, the statute, commonly referred Whereas, Utah is unique amongst the vited countries at the Center for Cultural to as R.S. 2477, remained in effect for 110 states in having such an obligation and the and Technical Interchange Between East and years, and most of the transportation routes San Juan Navajos are unique in having this West, Inc. (East-West Center) on the campus in the West were established under its au- relationship to the state; of the University of Hawaii at Manoa on Jan- thority; Whereas, by treaty in 1868 the Navajo Na- uary 30 and 31, 2008, to discuss potential Whereas, although Congress repealed R.S. tion was recognized as a sovereign and it is international agreements on global climate 2477 in 1976 by passing the Federal Land Pol- now the largest American Indian tribe in the change; and icy Management Act, it purposely protected country with significant expertise in its gov- Whereas, for more than half a century, re- all rights-of-way established prior to October ernance of its people; searchers have used atmospheric samples 21, 1976; Whereas, the Navajo Nation receives and taken at the Mauna Loa Observatory on the Whereas, unlike any other federal land expends the other 62.5% of the oil and gas island of Hawaii to track a steady annual in- statute the establishment of R.S. 2477 rights- royalties from the San Juan County portion crease in the concentration of carbon dioxide of-way required no entry, application, li- of the Navajo reservation; in the atmosphere and have concluded that cense patent, or deed on the part of the fed- Whereas, the San Juan Navajos are valued concentrations are now higher than they eral government, and no formal act of public citizens of the state of Utah whose interests have been in the past eight hundred thou- acceptance on the part of the states or local- include the need for critical infrastructure sand years; and ities in whom the rights were vested; such as water and electricity; Whereas, scientific consensus links the an- Whereas, because R.S. 2477 rights-of-way Whereas, the state first received monies thropogenic increase in greenhouse gases to were not required by the grant to be for- from the 37.5% of the oil and gas royalties in global climate change; and mally recorded, they have become one of the 1959 and litigation related to those royalties Whereas, the Fourth Assessment Report of more contentious land use issues in the began almost immediately, with a first the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate West, resulting in on-the-ground conflicts major decision occurring in 1961; Change indicates that global emissions of and expensive litigation; Whereas, the litigious environment sur- greenhouse gases need to peak in the next Whereas, Southern Utah Wilderness Alli- rounding the state’s administration of the ten to fifteen years and be reduced to levels ance v. Bureau of Land Management (SUWA oil and gas royalties harms the relationship well below half those in 2000 by the middle of v. BLM), a 10th Circuit Court of Appeals’ between the state and the San Juan Navajos this century in order to stabilize greenhouse order filed January 6, 2006, provides a and complicates all parties’ ability to meet gases concentrations in the atmosphere at thoughtful and reasonable way to resolve the needs of the San Juan Navajos; the lowest levels assessed by the Intergov- road disputes between the federal govern- Whereas, Navajos have expressed a desire ernmental Panel on Climate Change to date ment and counties; to have greater input or control over the ad- in its scenarios; and Whereas, the United States Department of ministration of the 37.5% of oil and gas roy- Whereas, achieving the lowest levels as- the Interior has developed and issued guide- alties; sessed by the Intergovernmental Panel on lines implementing the well-reasoned prin- Whereas, there exists several Navajo re- Climate Change to date and its cor- ciples in SUWA v. BLM, formerly known as lated entities that are equipped to find a responding potential damage limitation the ‘‘Norton Implementation’’; more effective way to administer these roy- would require developed countries as a group Whereas, certain members of Congress and alties where the state is not cast in the role to reduce emissions in a range of twenty-five certain nongovernmental organizations are as trustee; to forty percent below 1990 levels by 2020; and attempting to defeat the principles of SUWA Whereas, removal of the state as a go-be- Whereas, the Intergovernmental Panel on v. BLM as adopted by the Department of the tween provides an opportunity for Navajos to Climate Change and the signatory nations of Interior, and are trying to redefine R.S. 2477 determine the best use of these royalties; the United Nations Framework Convention rights-of-way out of existence in order to Whereas, Congress should designate a new on Climate Change have recognized the spe- create additional wilderness across the West, recipient of the 37.5% of oil and gas royal- cial dangers of climate change to island which by definition is roadless; ties; and states, territories, and nations; and Whereas, Representative Steve Pearce of Whereas, the state will continue to assist Whereas, global climate change is causing New Mexico has introduced in Congress the its citizens in the San Juan County through rapid melting of ice at both the north and ‘‘R.S. 2477 Rights-of-Way Recognition Act,’’ more traditional state tools such as the Nav- south polar regions, which, in conjunction a bill that codifies the beneficial principles ajo Revitalization Fund: Now, Therefore, be with thermal expansion due to warmer water established in SUWA v. BLM; and it temperatures, is leading to a rapid rise in sea Whereas, rights-of-way, including roads es- Resolved, That the Legislature of the state level; and tablished under R.S. 2477, are essential trans- of Utah, the Governor concurring therein, Whereas, University of Hawaii experts portation routes which are critical to the encourages the United States Congress to ex- have demonstrated that a one meter rise in economic stability and vitality of the rural peditiously designate a new recipient of the sea level would inundate much of Hawaii’s West: Now, Therefore, be it 37.5% of oil and gas royalties as quickly as coastline, including the world renowned Resolved, That the Legislature of the state possible. Be it further Waikiki resort area, the Honolulu Inter- of Utah, the Governor concurring therein, Resolved, That the Legislature and Gov- national Airport’s reef runway, the majority urge the United States Congress to support ernor support congressional action that re- of Hawaii’s wastewater treatment facilities, the fair and equitable resolution of R.S. 2477 sults in the 37.5% of oil and gas royalties many historic sites, and many populated rights-of-way by enacting the R.S. 2477, continuing to flow to the benefit of San Juan areas, including lands up to a mile away Rights-of-Way Recognition Act. Be it Fur- Navajos. Be it further from the existing shoreline in parts of Hono- ther Resolved, That the Legislature and Gov- lulu; and Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be ernor request Congress to work with inter- Whereas, global climate change also sent to the Majority Leader of the United ested parties to ensure the best solution pos- threatens Hawaii with stronger hurricanes, States Senate, the Speaker of the United sible regarding the distribution of the 37.5% prolonged drought, shifting weather pat- States House of Representatives, and to the of oil and gas royalties. Be it further terns, warmer temperatures, shifting micro- members of Utah’s congressional delegation. Resolved, That copies of this concurrent climates, increased spread of invasive spe- resolution be sent to: cies, and saltwater intrusion into its POM–382. A concurrent resolution adopted (1) the members of Utah’s congressional aquifers; and by the Legislature of the State of Utah urg- delegation; Whereas, increased atmospheric carbon di- ing Congress to designate a new recipient of (2) the Navajo Utah Commission; oxide concentrations foster greater carbon royalties from Navajo reservation lands in (3) the President of the Navajo Nation; dioxide uptake by the world’s oceans, leading

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.019 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5694 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 to ocean acidification and the resultant de- structure in Louisiana and the Gulf of Mex- Orleans is a staging area for foreign nuclear creases in reef health and decreases in sur- ico has an immediate and direct impact upon waste is counterproductive to that rebuild- vival of ocean life that rely on calcium car- the economy and well-being of the entire ing effort; and bonate shells; and country and its citizens; and Whereas, Europe as a whole may see an in- Whereas, Hawaii is doing its part to reduce Whereas, hurricanes Katrina and Rita crease in the need to process and dispose of its contribution to global climate change by turned approximately one hundred square nuclear waste as many of the countries in adopting progressive energy policies that miles of southeast Louisiana coastal wet- Europe rely on an aging inventory of nuclear promote the use of clean energy technologies lands into open water, and destroyed more power plants that will be decommissioned in such as wind, solar, wave, and biomass en- wetlands east of the Mississippi River in one the coming years, as in the EnergySolutions ergy; and month than experts estimated to be lost in application, and new facilities are being Whereas, Act 234, Session Laws of Hawaii over forty-five years; and planned not only as replacements but also to 2007, placed a binding statewide cap on Ha- Whereas, the states of Texas and Florida reduce reliance on fossil fuel; and waii’s greenhouse gas emissions, by requir- have seaward boundaries in the Gulf of Mex- Whereas, the current application from ing Hawaii to reduce its non-aviation green- ico to three marine leagues; and EnergySolutions may only be the beginning house gas emissions to their 1990 levels be- Whereas, Louisiana will receive an in- of a trend as the decrease in value of the fore 2020; Now, therefore, be it crease in Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas United States dollar in relation to the Euro Resolved by the House of Representatives of revenues, but such revenues will not be of a will make disposal of Europe’s nuclear waste the Twenty-fourth Legislature of the State of significant amount until 2017; and in the United States economically attractive Hawaii, Regular Session of 2008, That in rec- Whereas, the extension of Louisiana’s sea- and make New Orleans the gateway to that ognition of Hawaii’s overwhelming vulner- ward boundary into the Gulf of Mexico for cheap disposals; therefore, be it ability to global climate change, the Presi- three marine leagues will provide an imme- Resolved, That the Legislature of Louisiana dent of the United States is urged to use the diate stream of revenue for use in the state’s does hereby memorialize the United States January 30 and 31, 2008, Major Economies efforts to clean up, rebuild, and restore Congress to take such actions as are nec- Meeting on Energy Security and Climate southern Louisiana; therefore, be it essary to prohibit the importation of nuclear Change, which is being hosted in Hawaii, to Resolved, That the Legislature of Louisiana waste generated outside of the United States commit to an economy-wide reduction in memorializes the Congress of the United of America; and be it further greenhouse gas emissions in the United States to extend Louisiana’s seaward bound- Resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be States; and be it further ary in the Gulf of Mexico to three marine transmitted to the presiding officers of the Resolved, That the President of the United leagues; and be it further Senate and the House of Representatives of States is urged to consent to binding and Resolved, That a copy of this Resolution the Congress of the United States of America quantified commitments for the United shall be transmitted to the secretary of the and to each member of the Louisiana con- States under the United Nations Framework United States Senate and the clerk of the gressional delegation. Convention on Climate Change that would United States House of Representatives and result in the rapid stabilization and decrease to each member of the Louisiana delegation POM–386. A resolution adopted by the Leg- in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentra- to the United States Congress. islature of the State of Utah relative to tions; and be it further trade with Taiwan; to the Committee on Fi- Resolved, That certified copies of this Reso- POM–385. A concurrent resolution adopted nance. lution be transmitted to the President of the by the Legislature of the State of Louisiana SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 4 United States, the President of the United urging Congress to take such actions as are Whereas, it is our belief that it is the re- States Senate, the Speaker of the United necessary to prohibit the importation of nu- sponsibility of the United States to promote States House of Representatives, members of clear waste generated outside of the United the values of freedom and democracy, a com- Hawaii’s congressional delegation, and the States; to the Committee on Environment mitment to open markets, and the free ex- Secretariat of the United Nations Frame- and Public Works. work Convention on Climate Change. change of goods and ideas both at home and HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 99 abroad; POM–384. A concurrent resolution adopted Whereas, EnergySolutions, based in Salt Whereas, the Republic of China on Taiwan by the Senate of the State of Louisiana urg- Lake City, is seeking a license from the shares these values and has struggled ing Congress to extend Louisiana’s seaward United States Nuclear Regulatory Commis- throughout the past 50 years to create what boundary in the Gulf of Mexico to three ma- sion (NRC) to import up to approximately is an open and thriving democracy; rine leagues; to the Committee on Energy twenty thousand tons, a total volume of up Whereas, despite being a member of the and Natural Resources. to approximately one million cubic feet, of World Trade Organization since 2002, Taiwan SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 38 various types of materials from decommis- has no formal trade agreement with the sioned nuclear facilities in Italy; and Whereas, Louisiana’s seaward boundary in United States; Whereas, EnergySolutions would process the Gulf of Mexico has been judicially deter- Whereas, however, Taiwan has emerged as and recycle most of the contaminated mate- mined to be three geographical miles and the the United States eighth largest trading rial at its facilities in Tennessee, in accord- United States has jurisdiction past the three partner, the 11th largest export market, and ance with licenses issued by the state of Ten- geographical miles; and the fifth largest farm products market; Whereas, Congress has the power to amend nessee; and Whereas, the United States is Taiwan’s the Submerged Lands Act of 1953, to allow Whereas, the remaining waste would be largest trading partner, and American busi- for the recognition that Louisiana’s seaward sent to EnergySolutions’ low-level radio- nesses have benefitted greatly from this dy- boundary extends three marine leagues into active waste disposal facility in Clive, Utah, namic trade relationship; the Gulf of Mexico; and and any waste that does not qualify for dis- Whereas, in terms of labor, environmental, Whereas, Louisiana acts as a significant posal at the Utah facility would be returned and intellectual property protection stand- energy corridor vital to the entire United to Italy; and ards, Taiwan is a model for advanced econo- States and provides intersections of oil and Whereas, EnergySolutions’ license applica- mies; natural gas intrastate and interstate pipe- tion specifies that the waste is to be trans- Whereas, a free trade agreement with Tai- line networks which serve as references for ported to the United States by oceangoing wan will enable United States firms to lever- future markets, such as the Henry Hub for vessel to the ports of Charleston or New Or- age Taiwan’s role as a gateway to Asia, with natural gas, the St. James Louisiana Light leans, and at the time of the application, the Taiwan serving as a secure platform and Sweet Crude Oil, and the Mars Sour Crude generators of the waste were ‘‘not fully springboard for innovation and market ac- Oil contracts; and known’’ nor could the waste be evaluated for cess; Whereas, Louisiana provides storage for classification pursuant to federal regula- Whereas, a free trade agreement with Tai- the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve tions; and wan would provide United States firms with and is the home of the Louisiana Offshore Oil Whereas, although the NRC seeks the a base of operations from which to export Port, the nation’s major import terminal for input of the states of Tennessee and Utah as goods and services into the greater China re- foreign oil; and the states where the waste is processed and gion and Southeast Asia; Whereas, Louisiana and its coastal wet- disposed, the states of Louisiana and South Whereas, a free trade agreement with Tai- lands provide access to nearly thirty-four Carolina were not consulted despite the fact wan would extend the coverage of World percent of the U.S. natural gas supply and that the waste would spend significant time Trade Organization agreements to products, nearly twenty-nine percent of the U.S. oil in these states while the cargo is transferred sectors, and conditions of trade not ade- supply, upon which the United States’ eco- from an oceangoing vessel to either barge, quately covered; nomic growth depends; and truck, or rail transportation; and Whereas, over the past two decades, Tai- Whereas, Louisiana ranks first in crude oil Whereas, the state of Louisiana continues wan has emerged as one of the United States production, and ranks second in natural gas to rebuild in the wakes of Hurricanes most important allies in Asia and through- production, both including the Outer Conti- Katrina and Rita where substantial federal, out the world; nental Shelf production; and state, and private resources are being Whereas, Taiwan has forged an open, mar- Whereas, hurricanes Katrina and Rita have brought to bear on the New Orleans metro ket-based economy and a thriving democ- shown that the loss of vital oil and gas infra- area, and the fact or the perception that New racy based on free elections and the freedom

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:07 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.036 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5695 of dissent, and it is in the interest of the delegation, the members of the Utah Legisla- Whereas, the initial symptom of ALS is United States to encourage the development ture’s Medicaid Interim Committee, and the weakness of the skeletal muscles, especially of both of these institutions; Disability Law Center. those of the extremities; and Whereas, the United States has an obliga- Whereas, as ALS progresses, the patient tion to its allies and to its own citizens to POM–388. A resolution adopted by the Leg- experiences difficulty in swallowing, talking encourage economic growth, market open- islature of the State of Utah urging U.S. and breathing; and ings, and the destruction of trade barriers as withdrawal from the Security and Prosperity Whereas, ALS eventually causes muscles a means of raising living standards; and Partnership of North America; to the Com- to atrophy, and the patient becomes a func- Whereas, a free trade agreement with Tai- mittee on Foreign Relations. tional quadriplegic; and Whereas, because ALS does not affect men- wan would be a positive step toward accom- HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 1 plishing these important goals: Now, there- tal capacity, persons with ALS remain alert Whereas, President George W. Bush estab- and aware of the loss of motor function and fore, be it lished the Security and Prosperity Partner- the inevitable outcome of continued deterio- Resolved, That the Senate of the State of ship (SPP) of North America with the na- ration and death; and Utah urges the President of the United tions of Mexico and Canada on March 23, Whereas, ALS occurs in adulthood, most States and the United States Congress to 2005; commonly between the ages of 40 and 70, support a free trade agreement between the Whereas, the gradual creation of such a with the peak age about 55; and United States and the Republic of China on North American Union from a merger of the Whereas, ALS affects men two to three Taiwan; and be it further United States, Mexico, and Canada would be times more often than women; and Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be a direct threat to the United States Con- Whereas, more than 5,000 new ALS patients sent to the President of the United States, stitution and the national independence of are diagnosed annually; and the President of the United States Senate, the United States and would imply an even- Whereas, on average, patients diagnosed the Speaker of the United States House of tual end to national borders within North with ALS survive only two to five years from Representatives, the President of the Repub- America; the time of diagnosis; and Whereas, research indicates that military lic of China on Taiwan, and the members of Whereas, on March 31, 2006, a White House veterans are at a 50% or greater risk of de- Utah’s congressional delegation. news release confirmed the continuing exist- veloping ALS than other persons; and ence of the SPP and its ‘‘ongoing process of Whereas, ALS has no known cause, means POM–387. A joint resolution adopted by the cooperation’’; Legislature of the State of Utah urging sup- of prevention or cure; and Whereas, Congressman Ron Paul has writ- Whereas, ‘‘Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis port of Medicaid long-term care funding of ten that a key to the SPP plan is an exten- home and community-based supports; to the Awareness Month’’ increases public aware- sive new North American Free Trade Agree- ness of ALS patients’ circumstances, ac- Committee on Finance. ment (NAFTA) superhighway: ‘‘[U]nder this knowledges the terrible impact of ALS on HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5 new ‘partnership,’ a massive highway is patients and their families and recognizes Whereas, Utah’s population is aging and being planned to stretch from Canada into ongoing research to eradicate ALS: Now, Utahans with disabilities are living longer, Mexico, through the state of Texas.’’; therefore be it healthier lives; Whereas, this trilateral partnership to de- Resolved, That the Senate of the Common- Whereas, thousands of Utahans with dis- velop a North American Union has never wealth of Pennsylvania recognize the month abilities and older Utahans currently need or been presented to Congress as an agreement of May 2008 as ‘‘Amyotrophic Lateral Scle- will need long-term care and support to live or treaty, and has had virtually no congres- rosis (ALS) Awareness Month’’ in the Com- productive lives in their communities; sional oversight; and monwealth of Pennsylvania; and be it fur- Whereas, facility-based care is a manda- Whereas, state and local governments ther tory benefit and community-based supports throughout the United States would be nega- Resolved, That the Senate urge the Presi- are an optional benefit of Medicaid; tively impacted by the SPP and North Amer- dent and Congress of the United States to Whereas, long-term care accounts for over ican Union process, such as the ‘‘open bor- enact legislation to provide additional fund- 25 percent of all of Utah Medicaid spending; ders’’ vision of the SPP, eminent domain ing for ALS research; and be it further Resolved, That copies of this resolution be Whereas, nearly 60 percent of long-term takings of private property along the transmitted to the President of the United care expenditures in Utah Medicaid are for planned superhighways, and increased law States, to the Vice President of the United facility-based care; enforcement problems along those same su- States, to the Speaker of the House of Rep- Whereas, facility-based care can be up to perhighways: Now, therefore, be it resentatives, to the members of Congress five times more expensive than community- Resolved, That the House of Representa- tives of the State of Utah urges the United from Pennsylvania and to the United States based support; Secretary of Health and Human Services. Whereas, Utah Medicaid costs are growing States Congress and Utah’s congressional at a rate of approximately 10 percent per delegation, to use all of their efforts, ener- gies, and diligence to withdraw the United POM–390. A concurrent resolution adopted year; by the House of Representatives of the State States from any further participation in the Whereas, the Utah Legislature’s Medicaid of Arizona urging Congress to enact legisla- Security and Prosperity Partnership of Interim Committee is seeking recommenda- tion to provide adequate school facilities on tions for containing costs and increasing ac- North America. Be it further Resolved, That the House of Representa- tribal lands; to the Committee on Indian Af- countability; and fairs. Whereas, Medicaid long-term care reform tives urges Congress to withdraw the United HOUSE CONCURRENT MEMORIAL 2007 must be a cooperative effort among the Fed- States from any other bilateral or multilat- Whereas, to achieve true self-determina- eral and State government, the private sec- eral activity, however named, which seeks to tion, Native American governments, includ- tor, and the disability and elderly commu- advance, authorize, fund, or in any way pro- ing the Hopi Tribe, must have the resources nities: Now, therefore, be it mote the creation of any structure to accom- necessary to provide a quality education to Resolved, That the Legislature of the State plish any form of North American Union as their children living on federally recognized of Utah urges Utah’s congressional delega- described in this resolution. Be it further tribal lands so that those children have the tion to support the continued shift of Med- Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be same opportunity for learning as nonreserva- icaid long-term care funding toward home sent to the Majority Leader of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United tion children; and and community-based supports; be it further Whereas, it is vital to Indian education Resolved, That the Legislature urges Utah’s States House of Representatives, to the members of Utah’s congressional delegation, that the concepts of the No Child Left Be- congressional delegation to support pro- hind Act be implemented in a manner con- viding States with the flexibility and tools and all members of Congress by electronic means. sistent with the social, civic, economic, edu- needed to manage Medicaid long-term care cational and cultural needs of American In- costs in a fiscally responsible manner; be it dian tribes and communities; and further POM–389. A resolution adopted by the Sen- ate of the State of Pennsylvania recognizing Whereas, the Hopi Day School and the Resolved, That the Legislature urges Utah’s Hotevilla-Bacavi Community School at congressional delegation to support pro- the month of May 2008 as ‘‘Amyotrophic Lat- eral Sclerosis Awareness Month’’ to the Third Mesa, Arizona have been in existence viding Medicaid long-term care and supports collectively for over one hundred and twen- in the most appropriate and cost-effective Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. ty-five years; and manner while maintaining individual choice; Whereas, due to the age and poor physical be it further SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 326 condition of the Hopi Day School and the Resolved, That the Legislature urges Utah’s Whereas, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Hotevilla-Bacavi Community School facili- congressional delegation to ensure the active (ALS) is better known as Lou Gehrig’s dis- ties, neither school can provide an appro- participation of people with disabilities and ease; and priate educational environment for its stu- older Americans in the ongoing design, im- Whereas, ALS is a fatal neurodegenerative dents. The schools’ deficiencies include plementation, and review of Medicaid’s long- disease characterized by degeneration of cell classrooms that do not meet minimum space term care system; and be it further bodies of the lower motor neurons in the requirements and that lack a reliable means Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be gray matter of the anterior horns of the spi- of controlling the temperature and air qual- sent to the members of Utah’s congressional nal cord; and ity, interior walls painted with lead-based

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.039 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5696 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 paint, numerous cracks in the masonry walls facilities on Indian lands is a violation of the people by ratifying the United Nations Con- making the structural integrity of the build- rights of tribal governments and commu- vention on the Elimination of All Forms of ing questionable and a lack of the standard nities to exercise and assert equitable edu- Discrimination Against Women, and joining amenities common to most schools. Both cation in their boundaries. the one hundred eighty-five ratifying nations school facilities have been described by two 2. That the United States Congress provide in endorsing the most comprehensive treaty different Bureau of Indian Affairs inspec- a sufficient set-aside of Bureau of Indian ensuring fundamental human rights and tions as having exceeded their usefulness and Education monies to ensure that one new equality for all women; and be it futher functional life: and school will replace the two extremely old Resolved, that certified copies of this Con- Whereas, the Hopi children living at Third schools on the Third Mesa of the Hopi Res- current Resolution be transmitted to the Mesa who attend the Hopi Day School and ervation in order to promote fair and quality President of the United States Senate, the the Hotevilla-Bacavi Community School are education for the children of the Hopi Indian Speaker of the United States House of Rep- at risk and suffer from a significant edu- Nation. resentatives, and members of Hawaii’s con- cational disadvantage in comparison to their 3. That the United States Congress pro- gressional delegation. off-reservation peers, and this situation will mote and support adequate funding of continue until the federal government re- schools on American Indian Reservations. POM–392. A resolution adopted by the Leg- places the facilities at both schools; and 4. That the Secretary of State of the State islature of the State of Utah reaffirming the Whereas, in the face of the deplorable of Arizona transmit copies of this Memorial words, ‘‘Under God,’’ in the pledge of alle- physical conditions of their school facilities, to the President of the United States Senate, giance; to the Committee on the Judiciary. the Hopi children attending these schools the Speaker of the United States House of HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 3 have nevertheless excelled at their AIMS Representatives and each Member of Con- test (Arizona Instrument to Measure Stand- gress from the State of Arizona Whereas, the Pledge of Allegiance is a ards) and their Adequate Yearly Progress promise or oath of allegiance to the United (AYP) assessments for the last five years, de- POM–391. A concurrent resolution adopted States as represented by its national flag; spite the fact that only one-third of tribal by the House of Representatives of the State Whereas, the Pledge of Allegiance is com- schools nationwide are attaining the AYP, of Hawaii urging Congress to ratify the UN monly recited in unison at public events and thereby demonstrating their desire to convention on the elimination of all forms of especially in public school classrooms; achieve educational excellence; and discrimination against women; to the Com- Whereas, the Pledge of Allegiance was Whereas, at a time when schools across the mittee on the Judiciary. written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy, a Baptist entire country are diligently engaged in edu- minister; HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 16 cational reforms to ensure that ‘‘no child is Whereas, by presidential proclamation, left behind’’, the Hopi children living in the Whereas, the Convention on the Elimi- and later at the urging of the National Flag Third Mesa area are being left behind by the nation of All Forms of Discrimination Conference, Reverend Bellamy’s original very entity responsible for the reform move- Against Women (Convention) was adopted by version of the Pledge was altered prior to ment, the federal government; and the United Nations General Assembly in being officially recognized as the official na- Whereas, the Hopi Tribe is the only tribe 1979; and tional pledge in 1945; in Arizona that does not have a gaming com- Whereas, the Convention is the most com- Whereas, on Flag Day, 1954, at President pact and, therefore, has no other financial plete international agreement that focuses Dwight D. Eisenhower’s urging, the United resources with which to improve the condi- specifically on basic human rights for States Congress passed a resolution to add tions of its schools; and women; and Whereas, the Hopi Tribe believes that a the words ‘‘under God’’ to the Pledge of Alle- Whereas, the Convention requires ratifying giance; single school facility designed and built to nations to improve the status of women and serve the combined student populations Whereas, President Eisenhower explained, to work towards eliminating discrimination ‘‘These words [‘‘under God’] will remind served by the Hopi Day School and the and violence against women by establishing Hotevilla-Bacavi Community School would Americans that despite our great physical equality in legal status, political participa- strength we must remain humble. They will be economically advantageous and would tion, education, employment, healthcare, allow the addition of specialized staff and help us to keep constantly in our minds and and the family structure; and hearts the spiritual and moral principles programs not available in the current sepa- Whereas, the Convention has resulted in rate school facilities, would reduce or elimi- which alone give dignity to man, and upon reforms for women around the world, includ- which our way of life is founded.’’; and nate duplication of staff, services and bus ing measures against sex slavery, domestic routes required under the two-school struc- Whereas, it is fitting that the phrase violence, and trafficking of women; increas- ‘‘under God’’ in the Pledge of Allegiance be ture, would provide a proper learning envi- ing primary education previously denied to ronment for delivery of the whole edu- reaffirmed as part of the official Pledge of females; and improved health care that have Allegiance of the United States; Now, there- cational program for each child from pre- saved lives during pregnancy and childbirth; school through the eighth grade, would allow fore, be it and Resolved, That the Legislature of the state local control and would provide a school fa- Whereas, in 1972, Hawaii was the first state cility that is designed and constructed to of Utah reaffirms the words ‘‘under God’’ as to ratify the federal Equal Rights Amend- part of the official Pledge of Allegiance of last for many years and that can appro- ment, which would have amended the United priately accommodate the growth of the the United States of America; and be it fur- States Constitution by establishing a guar- ther local population; and antee of equal rights for women; and Whereas, the Bureau of Indian Education Resolved, That copies of this resolution be Whereas, although the United States sent to the President of the United States, has recognized that combining these two played an important role in drafting the schools on the Hopi reservation would be a the Majority Leader of the United States Convention on the Elimination of All Forms Senate, the Speaker of the United States more meaningful, appropriate and just solu- of Discrimination Against Women, the tion to the problems caused by the current House of Representatives, and to the mem- United States is one of only eight countries bers of Utah’s congressional delegation. dilapidated buildings; and that include Sudan, Somalia, Qatar, Iran, Whereas, the governing boards for the two Nauru, Palau, and Tonga, that have not rati- schools formally agreed to the concept of POM–393. A resolution adopted by the Sen- fied the Convention as of March 1, 2007; and having a single school facility for the entire ate of the State of Pennsylvania urging Con- Whereas, the United States’ failure to rat- Third Mesa area providing educational progress to enact bill S. 70 of 2007 relative to ify the Convention undermines the principle grams that include early childhood edu- Memorial Day; to the Committee on the Ju- that human rights of women are universal cation through the eighth grade; and diciary. and worthy of being guaranteed through Whereas, the reservation-wide Hopi Board SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 321 of Education adopted a resolution supporting international human rights standards; and the single school concept and took formal Whereas, as women in the Unites States Whereas, Memorial Day is a day of remem- action to reserve a landsite for the new are succeeding in greater leadership roles in brance for those who have died in this na- school; and business and government and participate in tion’s service; and Whereas, the Village of Kykotsmovi Gov- local and national elections in record num- Whereas, the United States observes Me- erning Board endorsed the single school con- bers, it is appropriate that the United States morial Day as a time to honor and reflect on cept and took formal action to reserve a Congress demonstrate its unequivocal sup- those sacrifices; and landsite for the new school; and port for the rights of women internationally Whereas, Memorial Day was officially pro- Whereas, the Hopi Tribal Council adopted a by ratifying the United Nations Convention claimed by General John Logan, national resolution approving both the single school on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimi- commander of the Grand Army of the Repub- concept and the landsite assignment. Where- nation Against Women; Now, therefore, be it lic, in his General Order No. 11, and it was fore your memorialist, the House of Rep- Resolved by the House of Representatives of first observed on May 30, 1868; and resentatives of the State of Arizona, the Sen- the Twenty-fourth Legislature of the State of Whereas, Congress established Memorial ate concurring, Hawaii, Regular Session of 2008, the Senate con- Day as the last Monday in May when it ap- Prays: curring, That the Legislature urges the proved the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 1. That the United States Congress recog- United States Senate to demonstrate our na- 90–363) to ensure a three-day weekend for the nize that failure to maintain adequate school tional commitment to human rights for all Federal holiday; and

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:14 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.032 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5697 Whereas, traditional observance of Memo- available where there are no U.S. workers INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND rial Day has diminished over the years as otherwise available; and be it further JOINT RESOLUTIONS many Americans have forgotten the meaning Resolved, That the Legislature and the The following bills and joint resolu- and traditions of Memorial Day and instead Governor urge Utah’s congressional delega- use that day to celebrate the beginning of tion to work with the United States Con- tions were introduced, read the first summer; and gress to ensure that any reform efforts focus and second times by unanimous con- Whereas, to help re-educate and remind primarily on enabling Utah’s employers to sent, and referred as indicated: Americans of the true meaning of Memorial hire a legal workforce sufficient to meet the By Mrs. MURRAY (for herself and Mr. Day, President George W. Bush signed the needs of Utah industries to enhance the eco- DODD): National Moment of Remembrance Act in nomic growth of the state’s private sector; S. 3141. A bill to provide for nondiscrimina- 2000 (P.L. 106–579), designating 3 p.m. local and be it further tion by eligible lenders in the Federal Fam- time on Memorial Day as the National Mo- Resolved, That the Legislature and the ily Education Loan Program; to the Com- ment of Remembrance to encourage citizens Governor urge Congress to reform the cur- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and to pause and remember our fallen soldiers; rent systems for obtaining work visas and Pensions. and reduce the delay for legal immigration; and By Mr. REID (for Mr. OBAMA): Whereas, to fully return the solemn spirit be it further S. 3142. A bill to amend the Public Health to Memorial Day, this nation should also re- Service Act to enhance public health activi- Resolved, That the Legislature and the turn to the traditional day of observance of ties related to stillbirth and sudden unex- Governor express their opposition to grant- May 30 each year, regardless of the day of pected infant death; to the Committee on ing blanket amnesty to undocumented per- the week on which it falls; therefore be it Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. sons and urge that appropriate sanctions be Resolved, That the Senate of the Common- By Mr. DURBIN (for himself and Mrs. a part of any solution; and be it further wealth of Pennsylvania memorialize the DOLE): President and the Congress of the United Resolved, That the Legislature and the S. 3143. A bill to assist law enforcement States to enact bill S. 70 of 2007, which would Governor recognize that addressing the sta- agencies in locating, arresting, and pros- designate the legal public holiday of Memo- tus of millions of undocumented persons cur- ecuting fugitives from justice; to the Com- rial Day as May 30, call for the flying of the rently present in the U.S. is a complex issue; mittee on the Judiciary. flag at half-staff until noon that day and en- and be it further By Mr. BAUCUS (for himself, Mr. courage Americans to observe Memorial Day Resolved, That the Legislature and the GRASSLEY, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. as a day of ceremonies for showing respect Governor urge that in passing immigration VOINOVICH, Mr. SALAZAR, Mr. ROB- for American veterans of wars and other reform Congress not inadvertently create un- ERTS, Mr. BROWN, Mr. SMITH, Mr. military conflicts; and be it further necessary hurdles and lengthy delays for CASEY, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. LEVIN, Mrs. Resolved, That copies of this resolution be those who wish to legally hire non-U.S. DOLE, Mr. LIEBERMAN, Mr. ISAKSON, transmitted to the President of the United workers; and be it further Mr. WYDEN, Mr. BURR, Mr. DODD, Ms. States, the presiding officers of each house of Resolved, That the Legislature and the SNOWE, Mr. SANDERS, Mr. HATCH, Ms. Congress and to each member of Congress Governor urge that in passing immigration CANTWELL, Mr. CARDIN, Mr. SCHUMER, from Pennsylvania. reform Congress not inadvertently create in- Mrs. CLINTON, Ms. MIKULSKI, and Mrs. centives for additional illegal immigration LINCOLN): POM–394. A concurrent resolution adopted by creating unnecessary hurdles and lengthy S. 3144. A bill to amend part B of title by the Legislature of the State of Utah urg- delays for those who wish to immigrate le- XVIII of the Social Security Act to delay ing Congress to pass balanced immigration gally for work or citizenship; and be it fur- and reform the Medicare competitive acqui- reform; to the Committee on the Judiciary. ther sition program for purchase of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 5 Resolved, That the Legislature and the supplies; to the Committee on Finance. Whereas, the economic relationship with Governor urge Congress to reform the For- Mexico, which shares our border, is vital to eign Worker Visa system as part of any im- f the United States because Mexico is the migration reform; and be it further ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS United States’ second most important trad- Resolved, That the Legislature and the ing partner, the United States is Mexico’s Governor urge Congress to eliminate current S. 1117 most important trading partner, and the visa backlogs and prevent future backlogs to At the request of Mr. BOND, the name U.S. is the largest source of direct foreign in- help meet Utah workforce demands; and be it of the Senator from Pennsylvania (Mr. vestment in Mexico; further CASEY) was added as a cosponsor of S. Whereas, economic, historic, and cultural ties between the U.S. and Mexico are critical Resolved, That the Legislature and the 1117, a bill to establish a grant program to many U.S. industries, including many in Governor recommend that these tasks can be to provide vision care to children, and Utah; accomplished by: for other purposes. Whereas, as a result of their shared borders (1) dramatically increasing the annual im- S. 1120 and proximity to Mexico, western states, in- migrant visa caps, including the limits on H– At the request of Mr. HARKIN, the cluding Utah, suffer a disproportionate fi- 1B and H–2B visas, particularly in the indus- name of the Senator from Montana nancial burden on health care, education, tries requiring highly trained and educated (Mr. TESTER) was added as a cosponsor the environment, and criminal justice sys- workers and seasonal hospitality operations; tems because of unauthorized immigration (2) streamlining the processing of H–2A of S. 1120, a bill to amend the Public from Mexico, affecting the economy of the visas to create a more workable system to Health Service Act to provide grants entire region; enable agricultural employers to hire needed for the training of graduate medical Whereas, the economic impacts may be off- foreign workers for seasonal jobs; residents in preventive medicine and set by allowing more legal and readily avail- (3) maintaining the L–1 visa program; and public health. able foreign workers to enter the U.S.; (4) expediting work authorization for for- S. 1232 Whereas, seasonal industries, including ag- eign nationals who complete University- riculture and hospitality, historically and At the request of Mr. DODD, the name level degrees in U.S. institutions to ensure currently play a pivotal role in Utah’s econ- of the Senator from Rhode Island (Mr. that the benefits of the educational invest- omy, and are heavily dependent upon a sta- WHITEHOUSE) was added as a cosponsor ment the nation has made in these individ- ble and reliable foreign labor pool; and of S. 1232, a bill to direct the Secretary Whereas, current immigration law address- uals remains in the U.S.; and be it further of Health and Human Services, in con- es neither documented U.S. labor shortages Resolved, That the Legislature and the sultation with the Secretary of Edu- nor marketplace dynamics, and without a Governor urge Congress to ensure the enforcement of current federal employer sanc- cation, to develop a voluntary policy lawful avenue to provide seasonal employees, for managing the risk of food allergy encourages continued unlawful immigration tions for knowingly hiring undocumented to the U.S. which continues to negatively labor, which requires the federal government and anaphylaxis in schools, to estab- impact the state’s economy; now, therefore, to adopt a secure, reliable, and fast employ- lish school-based food allergy manage- be it ment verification system accessible to em- ment grants, and for other purposes. Resolved, That the Legislature of the state ployers electronically 24 hours a day; and be S. 1418 it further of Utah, the Governor concurring therein, At the request of Mr. DODD, the name express support for the development of a bal- Resolved, That copies of this resolution be of the Senator from New York (Mrs. anced national immigration policy with the sent to the Majority Leader of the United CLINTON) was added as a cosponsor of S. overarching purpose of protecting and pre- States Senate, the Speaker of the United serving the safety and interests of the States House of Representatives, the United 1418, a bill to provide assistance to im- United States and its citizens while recog- States Department of Homeland Security, prove the health of newborns, children, nizing the needs of Utah industries to have a and to the members of Utah’s congressional and mothers in developing countries, stable and legal supply of workers quickly delegation. and for other purposes.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:14 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.043 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5698 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 S. 1430 tional Data Exchange Program to list KULSKI) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, his cruelty to animals as a separate of- 2888, a bill to protect the property and name was added as a cosponsor of S. fense category. security of homeowners who are sub- 1430, a bill to authorize State and local S. 2550 ject to foreclosure proceedings, and for governments to direct divestiture At the request of Mrs. HUTCHISON, the other purposes. from, and prevent investment in, com- name of the Senator from Kansas (Mr. S. 2920 panies with investments of $20,000,000 ROBERTS) was added as a cosponsor of At the request of Mr. KERRY, the or more in Iran’s energy sector, and for S. 2550, a bill to amend title 38, United name of the Senator from Montana other purposes. States Code, to prohibit the Secretary (Mr. TESTER) was added as a cosponsor S. 1774 of Veterans Affairs from collecting cer- of S. 2920, a bill to reauthorize and im- At the request of Mrs. BOXER, the tain debts owed to the United States prove the financing and entrepre- name of the Senator from California by members of the Armed Forces and neurial development programs of the Small Business Administration, and for (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) was added as a co- veterans who die as a result of an in- sponsor of S. 1774, a bill to designate jury incurred or aggravated on active other purposes. the John Krebs Wilderness in the State duty in a combat zone, and for other S. 2931 of California, to add certain land to the purposes. At the request of Ms. SNOWE, the Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Park S. 2595 name of the Senator from Kansas (Mr. Wilderness, and for other purposes. At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the BROWNBACK) was added as a cosponsor name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. of S. 2931, a bill to amend title XVIII of S. 1921 SNOWE) was added as a cosponsor of S. the Social Security Act to exempt At the request of Mr. WEBB, the name 2595, a bill to create a national licens- complex rehabilitation products and of the Senator from Arizona (Mr. ing system for residential mortgage assistive technology products from the MCCAIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. loan originators, to develop minimum Medicare competitive acquisition pro- 1921, a bill to amend the American Bat- standards of conduct to be enforced by gram. tlefield Protection Act of 1996 to ex- State regulators, and for other pur- S. 2955 tend the authorization for that Act, poses. At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, and for other purposes. S. 2619 the name of the Senator from Rhode Is- S. 2035 At the request of Mr. COBURN, the land (Mr. REED) was added as a cospon- At the request of Mr. SPECTER, the names of the Senator from Texas (Mr. sor of S. 2955, a bill to authorize funds name of the Senator from Montana CORNYN) and the Senator from Missouri to the Local Initiatives Support Cor- (Mr. TESTER) was added as a cosponsor (Mr. BOND) were added as cosponsors of poration to carry out its Community of S. 2035, a bill to maintain the free S. 2619, a bill to protect innocent Safety Initiative. flow of information to the public by Americans from violent crime in na- S. 2979 providing conditions for the federally tional parks. At the request of Mr. KERRY, the compelled disclosure of information by S. 2667 name of the Senator from New Hamp- certain persons connected with the At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the shire (Mr. GREGG) was added as a co- news media. name of the Senator from Idaho (Mr. sponsor of S. 2979, a bill to exempt the S. 2059 CRAPO) was added as a cosponsor of S. African National Congress from treat- At the request of Mr. WYDEN, his 2667, a bill to direct the Attorney Gen- ment as a terrorist organization, and name was added as a cosponsor of S. eral to make an annual grant to the A for other purposes. 2059, a bill to amend the Family and Child Is Missing Alert and Recovery S. 2983 Medical Leave Act of 1993 to clarify the Center to assist law enforcement agen- At the request of Mr. LAUTENBERG, eligibility requirements with respect cies in the rapid recovery of missing the name of the Senator from Georgia to airline flight crews. children, and for other purposes. (Mr. CHAMBLISS) was added as a cospon- At the request of Mr. AKAKA, his S. 2668 sor of S. 2983, a bill to amend the Pub- name was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. KERRY, the lic Health Service Act to prevent and 2059, supra. names of the Senator from Arkansas cure diabetes and to promote and im- S. 2396 (Mr. PRYOR), the Senator from Wash- prove the care of individuals with dia- URRAY betes for the reduction of health dis- At the request of Mr. ROCKEFELLER, ington (Mrs. M ) and the Senator parities within racial and ethnic mi- the name of the Senator from Wash- from Montana (Mr. TESTER) were added as cosponsors of S. 2668, a bill to amend nority groups, including the African- ington (Ms. CANTWELL) was added as a American, Hispanic American, Asian cosponsor of S. 2396, a bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to re- American and Pacific Islander, and title XI of the Social Security Act to move cell phones from listed property American Indian and Alaskan Native modernize the quality improvement or- under section 280F. communities. ganization (QIO) program. S. 2874 At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the S. 2990 S. 2433 name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. At the request of Mr. KERRY, the At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, his WYDEN) was added as a cosponsor of S. names of the Senator from Rhode Is- name was added as a cosponsor of S. 2874, a bill to amend titles 5, 10, 37, and land (Mr. REED) and the Senator from 2433, a bill to require the President to 38, United States Code, to ensure the Kansas (Mr. BROWNBACK) were added as develop and implement a comprehen- fair treatment of a member of the cosponsors of S. 2990, a bill to amend sive strategy to further the United Armed Forces who is discharged from title XVIII of the Social Security Act States foreign policy objective of pro- the Armed Forces, at the request of the to improve access of Medicare bene- moting the reduction of global poverty, member, pursuant to the Department ficiaries to intravenous immune the elimination of extreme global pov- of Defense policy permitting the early globulins. erty, and the achievement of the Mil- discharge of a member who is the only S. 3022 lennium Development Goal of reducing surviving child in a family in which the At the request of Mr. LEVIN, the by one-half the proportion of people father or mother, or one or more sib- name of the Senator from Wisconsin worldwide, between 1990 and 2015, who lings, served in the Armed Forces and, (Mr. FEINGOLD) was added as a cospon- live on less than $1 per day. because of hazards incident to such sor of S. 3022, a bill to amend the Fed- S. 2439 service, was killed, died as a result of eral Water Pollution Control Act to At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the wounds, accident, or disease, is in a prohibit the sale of dishwashing deter- name of the Senator from New York captured or missing in action status, or gent in the United States if the deter- (Mrs. CLINTON) was added as a cospon- is permanently disabled, and for other gent contains a high level of phos- sor of S. 2439, a bill to require the Na- purposes. phorus. tional Incident Based Reporting Sys- S. 2888 S. 3038 tem, the Uniform Crime Reporting Pro- At the request of Mr. KOHL, the name At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the gram, and the Law Enforcement Na- of the Senator from Maryland (Ms. MI- name of the Senator from Maine (Ms.

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I believe that Congress 3038, a bill to amend part E of title IV from New York (Mr. SCHUMER), the should take a closer look to make sure of the Social Security Act to extend Senator from Massachusetts (Mr. KEN- this program lives up to its potential. the adoption incentives program, to NEDY), the Senator from Maryland (Mr. In order to ensure that we are getting authorize States to establish a relative CARDIN), the Senator from Missouri the best possible price and quality for guardianship program, to promote the (Mrs. MCCASKILL), the Senator from beneficiaries, it is critical that the adoption of children with special needs, Louisiana (Ms. LANDRIEU), the Senator competitive bidding process be accu- and for other purposes. from New Jersey (Mr. LAUTENBERG), rate and inclusive. I am most con- S. 3086 the Senator from Connecticut (Mr. cerned about the impact that a poorly designed program will have on Medi- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the LIEBERMAN) and the Senator from Ar- name of the Senator from Missouri kansas (Mrs. LINCOLN) were added as care beneficiaries, many of whom are confused about what this new program (Mr. BOND) was added as a cosponsor of cosponsors of S. Res. 584, a resolution S. 3086, a bill to amend the antitrust recognizing the historical significance means for them and are concerned that laws to ensure competitive market- of Juneteenth Independence Day and they won’t be able to get care from someone in their own community. based fees and terms for merchants’ ac- expressing the sense of the Senate that This means we must have as many cess to electronic payment systems. history should be regarded as a means bidders as possible who offer not only S. 3118 for understanding the past and solving the challenges of the future. the best price but clearly meet high At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the quality standards. Based upon the name of the Senator from Wyoming f numbers we have seen as a result of (Mr. BARRASSO) was added as a cospon- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED bidding in phase one, I think we need sor of S. 3118, a bill to amend titles BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS to look more closely to make sure that XVIII and XIX of the Social Security By Mr. BAUCUS (for himself, Mr. we are not missing an opportunity to Act to preserve beneficiary access to GRASSLEY, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. consider additional suppliers who have care by preventing a reduction in the VOINOVICH, Mr. SALAZAR, Mr. experience furnishing these services in Medicare physician fee schedule, to im- ROBERTS, Mr. BROWN, Mr. the communities at play. Furthermore, prove the quality of care by advancing SMITH, Mr. CASEY, Ms. COLLINS, we need to examine the bidding process value based purchasing, electronic Mr. LEVIN, Mrs. DOLE, Mr. outcomes to make sure that the sup- health records, and electronic pre- LIEBERMAN, Mr. ISAKSON, Mr. pliers being offered contracts to serve scribing, and to maintain and improve WYDEN, Mr. BURR, Mr. DODD, patients in a selected area have the access to care in rural areas, and for Ms. SNOWE, Mr. SANDERS, Mr, team on the ground to help patients in other purposes. HATCH, Ms. CANTWELL, Mr. those areas. I have also heard concerns that some S. 3130 CARDIN, Mr. SCHUMER, Mrs. of the products included in the first At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the CLINTON, Ms. MIKULSKI, and phase of the competitive acquisition name of the Senator from South Da- Mrs. LINCOLN): kota (Mr. JOHNSON) was added as a co- S. 3144. A bill to amend part B of title program may not be the best fit for sponsor of S. 3130, a bill to provide en- XVIII of the Social Security Act to this type of program because they re- ergy price relief by authorizing greater delay and reform the Medicare com- quire specialized handling or expertise. resources and authority for the Com- petitive acquisition program for pur- At the end of the day, the most impor- modity Futures Trading Commission, chase of durable medical equipment, tant goal of the Medicare program is to and for other purposes. prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies; to make sure patients get the care that is S.J. RES. 2 the Committee on Finance. appropriate for them, so we must tread carefully when we move ahead with a At the request of Mr. VITTER, the Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, today I name of the Senator from Kansas (Mr. introduce, with my friend Senator program covering these products. The Centers for Medicare and Med- BROWNBACK) was added as a cosponsor GRASSLEY and twenty-four other icaid Services put forth an admirable of S.J. Res. 2, a joint resolution pro- Democratic and Republican Senators, effort to implement a complex com- posing an amendment to the Constitu- the Medicare DMEPOS Competitive petitive bidding program in a short tion of the United States relative to Acquisition Reform Act of 2008. In time frame. I think that many of the limiting the number of terms that a doing so, I would also like to recognize concerns that people have raised about Member of Congress may serve. the efforts of Congressman PETE the program can be resolved, but we S.J. RES. 37 STARK, Congressman DAVE CAMP, and so many others in the House of Rep- cannot afford to ignore them. The ben- At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the eficiary services at stake are just too name of the Senator from California resentatives who worked very hard on this bipartisan legislation. important to move hastily; no matter (Mrs. BOXER) was added as a cosponsor This legislation will delay the dura- how much money we believe we can of S.J. Res. 37, a joint resolution ex- ble medical equipment, prosthetics, save. pressing the sense of Congress that the orthotics, and supplies competitive ac- I think that it is worth it for us to United States should sign the Declara- quisition program. Many Members of delay for just a bit and take a closer tion of the Oslo Conference on Cluster Congress and I have received reports look to make sure this program lives Munitions and future instruments ban- about potential inaccuracies in the im- up to its potential. With a few minor ning cluster munitions that cause un- plementation of the CAP program. tweaks here and there, I am convinced acceptable harm to civilians. These reports range from suppliers who that the competitive acquisition pro- S. CON. RES. 88 believe they were wrongly disqualified gram will live up to its promise to pro- At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the to questions about the clarity and con- vide cost effective, high-quality serv- name of the Senator from Oklahoma sistency of information that suppliers ices and products to patients. (Mr. INHOFE) was added as a cosponsor received during the bidding process. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- of S. Con. Res. 88, a concurrent resolu- Some providers were awarded contracts sent that the text of the bill be printed tion expressing the sense of Congress to serve areas in which they did not in the RECORD. There being no objection, the text that the Food and Drug Administra- previously have a presence. Other sup- was ordered to be printed in the tion’s (FDA) new policy restricting pliers were awarded contracts for serv- RECORD, as follows: women’s access to medications con- ice lines with which they have little or taining estriol does not serve the pub- no experience. S. 3144 lic interest. While I support the concept of com- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in S. RES. 584 petitive bidding as a way to decrease Congress assembled, URBIN At the request of Mr. D , the costs, it is the obligation of Congress SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. names of the Senator from California to make sure that these savings are This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Medicare (Mrs. BOXER), the Senator from Ohio not at the expense of beneficiary access DMEPOS Competitive Acquisition Reform (Mr. BROWN), the Senator from to the care that they need in their own Act of 2008’’.

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SEC. 2. DELAY IN AND REFORM OF MEDICARE ‘‘(E) VERIFICATION BY OIG.—The Inspector ‘‘(J) for 2009— DMEPOS COMPETITIVE ACQUISI- General of the Department of Health and ‘‘(i) in the case of items and services fur- TION PROGRAM. Human Services shall, through post-award nished in any geographic area, if such items (a) TEMPORARY DELAY AND REFORM.— audit, survey, or otherwise, assess the proc- or services were selected for competitive ac- (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1847(a)(1) of the ess used by the Centers for Medicare & Med- quisition in any area under the competitive Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3(a)(1)) icaid Services to conduct competitive bid- acquisition program under section is amended— ding and subsequent pricing determinations 1847(a)(1)(B)(i)(I) before July 1, 2008, includ- (A) in paragraph (1)— under this section that are the basis for piv- ing diabetic supplies but only if furnished (i) in subparagraph (B)(i), in the matter be- otal bid amounts and single payment through mail order, ¥9.5 percent; or fore subclause (I), by inserting ‘‘consistent amounts for items and services in competi- ‘‘(ii) in the case of other items and serv- with subparagraph (D)’’ after ‘‘in a manner’’; tive bidding areas under rounds 1 and 2 of the ices, the percentage increase in the con- (ii) in subparagraph (B)(i)(II), by striking competitive acquisition programs under this sumer price index for all urban consumers ‘‘80’’ and ‘‘in 2009’’ and inserting ‘‘an addi- section and may continue to verify such cal- (U.S. urban average) for the 12-month period tional 70’’ and ‘‘in 2011’’, respectively; culations for subsequent rounds of such pro- ending with June 2008; (iii) in subparagraph (B)(i)(III), by striking grams. ‘‘(K) for 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, the per- UPPLIER FEEDBACK ON MISSING FINAN- ‘‘after 2009’’ and inserting ‘‘after 2011 (or, in ‘‘(F) S centage increase in the consumer price index CIAL DOCUMENTATION.— the case of national mail order for items and for all urban consumers (U.S. urban average) ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In the case of a bid where services, after 2010)’’; and for the 12-month period ending with June of one or more covered documents in connec- (iv) by adding at the end the following new the previous year; tion with such bid have been submitted not subparagraphs: ‘‘(L) for 2014— later than the covered document review date ‘‘(D) CHANGES IN COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION ‘‘(i) in the case of items and services de- specified in clause (ii), the Secretary— PROGRAMS.— scribed in subparagraph (J)(i) for which a ‘‘(I) shall provide, by not later than 45 days ‘‘(i) ROUND 1 OF COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION payment adjustment has not been made (in the case of the first round of the competi- PROGRAM.—Notwithstanding subparagraph under subsection (a)(1)(F)(ii) in any previous tive acquisition programs as described in (B)(i)(I) and in implementing the first round year, the percentage increase in the con- subparagraph (B)(i)(I)) or 90 days (in the case sumer price index for all urban consumers of the competitive acquisition programs of a subsequent round of such programs) under this section— (U.S. urban average) for the 12-month period after the covered document review date, for ending with June 2013, plus 2.0 percentage ‘‘(I) the contracts awarded under this sec- notice to the bidder of all such documents tion before the date of the enactment of this points; or that are missing as of the covered document ‘‘(ii) in the case of other items and serv- subparagraph are terminated, no payment review date; and shall be made under this title on or after the ices, the percentage increase in the con- ‘‘(II) may not reject the bid on the basis sumer price index for all urban consumers date of the enactment of this subparagraph that any covered document is missing or has based on such a contract, and, to the extent (U.S. urban average) for the 12-month period not been submitted on a timely basis, if all ending with June 2013; and’’. that any damages may be applicable as a re- such missing documents identified in the no- (B) CONFORMING TREATMENT FOR CERTAIN sult of the termination of such contracts, tice provided to the bidder under subclause ITEMS AND SERVICES.—The second sentence of such damages shall be payable from the Fed- (I) are submitted to the Secretary not later section 1842(s)(1) of such Act (42 U.S.C. eral Supplementary Medical Insurance Trust than 10 business days after the date of such 1395u(s)(1)) is amended by striking ‘‘except Fund under section 1841; notice. that’’ and all that follows and inserting the ‘‘(II) the Secretary shall conduct the com- ‘‘(ii) COVERED DOCUMENT REVIEW DATE.— following: ‘‘except that for items and serv- petition for such round in a manner so that The covered document review date specified ices described in paragraph (2)(D)— it occurs in 2009 with respect to the same in this clause with respect to a competitive ‘‘(A) for 2009 section 1834(a)(14)(J)(i) shall items and services and the same areas, ex- acquisition program is the later of— apply under this paragraph instead of the cept as provided in subclauses (III) and (IV); ‘‘(I) the date that is 30 days before the final percentage increase otherwise applicable; ‘‘(III) the Secretary shall exclude Puerto date specified by the Secretary for submis- Rico so that such round of competition cov- sion of bids under such program; or and ers 9, instead of 10, of the largest metropoli- ‘‘(II) the date that is 30 days after the first ‘‘(B) for 2014, if subparagraph (A) applied to tan statistical areas; and date specified by the Secretary for submis- the items and services and there has not ‘‘(IV) there shall be excluded negative pression of bids under such program. been a payment adjustment under subsection (h)(1)(H) for the items and services for any sure wound therapy items and services. ‘‘(iii) LIMITATIONS OF PROCESS.—The proc- Nothing in subclause (I) shall be construed ess provided under this subparagraph— previous year, the percentage increase com- to provide an independent cause of action or ‘‘(I) applies only to the timely submission puted under section 1834(a)(14)(L)(i) shall right to administrative or judicial review of covered documents; apply instead of the percentage increase oth- with regard to the termination provided ‘‘(II) does not apply to any determination erwise applicable.’’. under such subclause. as to the accuracy or completeness of cov- (3) CONFORMING DELAY.—Subsections ‘‘(ii) ROUND 2 OF COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION ered documents submitted or whether such (a)(1)(F) and (h)(1)(H) of section 1834 of the PROGRAM.—In implementing the second documents meet applicable requirements; Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m) are round of the competitive acquisition pro- ‘‘(III) shall not prevent the Secretary from each amended by striking ‘‘January 1, 2009’’ grams under this section described in sub- rejecting a bid based on any basis not de- and inserting ‘‘January 1, 2011’’. paragraph (B)(i)(II)— scribed in clause (i)(II); and (4) CONSIDERATIONS IN APPLICATION.—Sec- ‘‘(I) the metropolitan statistical areas to ‘‘(IV) shall not be construed as permitting tion 1834 of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m) is be included shall be those metropolitan sta- a bidder to change bidding amounts or to amended— tistical areas selected by the Secretary for make other changes in a bid submission. (A) in subsection (a)(1)— such round as of June 1, 2008; and ‘‘(iv) COVERED DOCUMENT DEFINED.—In this (i) in subparagraph (F), by inserting ‘‘sub- ‘‘(II) the Secretary may subdivide metro- subparagraph, the term ‘covered document’ ject to subparagraph (G),’’ before ‘‘that are politan statistical areas with populations means a financial, tax, or other document re- included’’; and (based upon the most recent data from the quired to be submitted by a bidder as part of (ii) by adding at the end the following new Census Bureau) of at least 8,000,000 into sepa- an original bid submission under a competi- subparagraph: rate areas for competitive acquisition pur- tive acquisition program in order to meet re- ‘‘(G) USE OF INFORMATION ON COMPETITIVE poses. quired financial standards. Such term does BID RATES.—The Secretary shall specify by ‘‘(iii) EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN AREAS IN SUB- not include other documents, such as the bid regulation the methodology to be used in ap- SEQUENT ROUNDS OF COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION itself or accreditation documentation.’’; and plying the provisions of subparagraph (F)(ii) PROGRAMS.—In implementing subsequent (B) in paragraph (2)(A), by inserting before and subsection (h)(1)(H)(ii). In promulgating rounds of the competitive acquisition pro- the period at the end the following: ‘‘and ex- such regulation, the Secretary shall consider grams under this section, including under cluding certain complex rehabilitative power the costs of items and services in areas in subparagraph (B)(i)(III), for competitions oc- wheelchairs recognized by the Secretary as which such provisions would be applied com- curring before 2015, the Secretary shall ex- classified within group 3 or higher (and re- pared to the payment rates for such items empt from the competitive acquisition pro- lated accessories when furnished in connec- and services in competitive acquisition gram (other than national mail order) the tion with such wheelchairs)’’. areas.’’; and following: (2) BUDGET NEUTRAL OFFSET.— (B) in subsection (h)(1)(H), by inserting ‘‘(I) Rural areas. (A) IN GENERAL.—Section 1834(a)(14) of such ‘‘subject to subsection (a)(1)(G),’’ before ‘‘(II) Metropolitan statistical areas not se- Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(a)(14)) is amended— ‘‘that are included’’. lected under round 1 or round 2 with a popu- (i) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- (b) QUALITY STANDARDS.— lation of less than 250,000. graphs (H) and (I); (1) APPLICATION OF ACCREDITATION REQUIRE- ‘‘(III) Areas with a low population density (ii) by redesignating subparagraph (J) as MENT.— within a metropolitan statistical area that is subparagraph (M); and (A) IN GENERAL.—Section 1834(a)(20) of the otherwise selected, as determined for pur- (iii) by inserting after subparagraph (I) the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(a)(20)) is poses of paragraph (3)(A). following new subparagraphs: amended—

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(i) in subparagraph (E), by inserting ‘‘in- (c) CHANGE IN REPORTS AND DEADLINES.— (1) EXEMPTION FROM COMPETITIVE ACQUISI- cluding subparagraph (F),’’ after ‘‘under this (1) GAO REPORT.—Section 302(b)(3) of the TION FOR CERTAIN OFF-THE-SHELF paragraph,’’; and Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, ORTHOTICS.—Section 1847(a) of the Social Se- (ii) by adding at the end the following new and Modernization Act of 2003 (Public Law curity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3(a)) is amended subparagraph: 108-173) is amended— by adding at the end the following new para- ‘‘(F) APPLICATION OF ACCREDITATION RE- (A) in subparagraph (A)— graph: QUIREMENT.—In implementing quality stand- (i) by inserting ‘‘and as amended by section ‘‘(7) EXEMPTION FROM COMPETITIVE ACQUISI- ards under this paragraph— 2 of the Medicare DMEPOS Competitive Ac- TION.—The programs under this section shall ‘‘(i) subject to clause (ii), the Secretary quisition Reform Act of 2008’’ after ‘‘as not apply to the following: shall require suppliers furnishing items and amended by paragraph (1)’’; and ‘‘(A) CERTAIN OFF-THE-SHELF ORTHOTICS.— services described in subparagraph (D) on or (ii) by inserting before the period at the Items and services described in paragraph after October 1, 2009, directly or as a subcon- end the following: ‘‘and the topics specified (2)(C) if furnished— tractor for another entity, to have submitted in subparagraph (C)’’; ‘‘(i) by a physician or other practitioner to the Secretary evidence of accreditation by (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘Not (as defined by the Secretary) to the physi- an accreditation organization designated later than January 1, 2009,’’ and inserting cian’s or practitioner’s own patients as part under subparagraph (B) as meeting applica- ‘‘Not later than 1 year after the first date of the physician’s or practitioner’s profes- ble quality standards; and that payments are made under section 1847 sional service; or ‘‘(ii) in applying such standards and the ac- of the Social Security Act,’’; and ‘‘(ii) by a hospital to the hospital’s own pa- creditation requirement of clause (i) with re- (C) by adding at the end the following new tients during an admission or on the date of spect to eligible professionals (as defined in subparagraph: discharge. section 1848(k)(3)(B)), and including such ‘‘(C) TOPICS.—The topics specified in this ‘‘(B) CERTAIN DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIP- other persons, such as orthotists and subparagraph, for the study under subpara- MENT.—Those items and services described in prosthetists, as specified by the Secretary, graph (A) concerning the competitive acqui- paragraph (2)(A)— furnishing such items and services— sition program, are the following: ‘‘(i) that are furnished by a hospital to the ‘‘(I) such standards and accreditation re- ‘‘(i) Beneficiary access to items and serv- hospital’s own patients during an admission quirement shall not apply to such profes- ices under the program, including the impact or on the date of discharge; and sionals and persons unless the Secretary de- on such access of awarding contracts to bid- ‘‘(ii) to which such programs would not termines that the standards being applied ders that— apply, as specified by the Secretary, if fur- are designed specifically to be applied to ‘‘(I) did not have a physical presence in an nished by a physician to the physician’s own such professionals and persons; and area where they received a contract; or patients as part of the physician’s profes- ‘‘(II) the Secretary may exempt such pro- ‘‘(II) had no previous experience providing sional service.’’. fessionals and persons from such standards the product category they were contracted (2) CORRECTION IN FACE-TO-FACE EXAMINA- and requirement if the Secretary determines to provide. TION REQUIREMENT.—Section 1834(a)(1)(E)(ii) that licensing, accreditation, or other man- ‘‘(ii) Beneficiary satisfaction with the proof such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(a)(1)(E)(ii)) is datory quality requirements apply to such gram and cost savings to beneficiaries under amended by striking ‘‘1861(r)(1)’’ and insert- professionals and persons with respect to the the program. ing ‘‘1861(r)’’. furnishing of such items and services.’’. ‘‘(iii) Costs to suppliers of participating in (3) SPECIAL RULE IN CASE OF NATIONAL MAIL- (B) CONSTRUCTION.—Section 1834(a)(20)(F) the program and recommendations about ORDER COMPETITION FOR DIABETIC TESTING (ii) of the Social Security Act, as added by ways to reduce those costs without compro- STRIPS.—Section 1847(b) of such Act (42 subparagraph (A), shall not be construed as mising quality standards or savings to the U.S.C. 1395w–3(b)) is amended— preventing the Secretary of Health and Medicare program. (A) by redesignating paragraph (10) as Human Services from implementing the first ‘‘(iv) Impact of the program on small busi- paragraph (11); and round of competition under section 1847 of ness suppliers. (B) by inserting after paragraph (9) the fol- such Act on a timely basis. ‘‘(v) Analysis of the impact on utilization lowing new paragraph: (2) DISCLOSURE OF SUBCONTRACTORS UNDER of different items and services paid within ‘‘(10) SPECIAL RULE IN CASE OF COMPETITION COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION PROGRAM.—Section the same Healthcare Common Procedure FOR DIABETIC TESTING STRIPS.— 1847(b)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3(b)(3)) Coding System (HCPCS) code. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—With respect to the is amended by adding at the end the fol- ‘‘(vi) Costs to the Centers for Medicare & competitive acquisition program for diabetic lowing new subparagraph: Medicaid Services, including payments made testing strips conducted after the first round ‘‘(C) DISCLOSURE OF SUBCONTRACTORS.— to contractors, for administering the proof the competitive acquisition programs, if ‘‘(i) INITIAL DISCLOSURE.—Not later than 10 gram compared with administration of a fee an entity does not demonstrate to the Sec- days after the date a supplier enters into a schedule, in comparison with the relative retary that its bid covers types of diabetic contract with the Secretary under this sec- savings of the program. testing strip products that, in the aggregate tion, such supplier shall disclose to the Sec- ‘‘(vii) Impact on access, Medicare spending, and taking into account volume for the dif- retary, in a form and manner specified by and beneficiary spending of any difference in ferent products, cover 50 percent (or such the Secretary, the information on— treatment for diabetic testing supplies de- higher percentage as the Secretary may ‘‘(I) each subcontracting relationship that pending on how such supplies are furnished. specify) of all such types of products, the such supplier has in furnishing items and ‘‘(viii) Such other topics as the Comp- Secretary shall reject such bid. The volume services under the contract; and troller General determines to be appro- for such types of products may be deter- ‘‘(II) whether each such subcontractor priate.’’. mined in accordance with such data (which meets the requirement of section (2) DELAY IN OTHER DEADLINES.— may be market based data) as the Secretary 1834(a)(20)(F)(i), if applicable to such subcon- (A) PROGRAM ADVISORY AND OVERSIGHT COM- recognizes. tractor. MITTEE.—Section 1847(c)(5) of the Social Se- ‘‘(B) STUDY OF TYPES OF TESTING STRIP ‘‘(ii) SUBSEQUENT DISCLOSURE.—Not later curity Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3(c)(5)) is amend- PRODUCTS.—Before 2011, the Inspector Gen- than 10 days after such a supplier subse- ed by striking ‘‘December 31, 2009’’ and in- eral of the Department of Health and Human quently enters into a subcontracting rela- serting ‘‘December 31, 2011’’. Services shall conduct a study to determine tionship described in clause (i)(II), such sup- (B) SECRETARIAL REPORT.—Section 1847(d) the types of diabetic testing strip products plier shall disclose to the Secretary, in such of such Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–3(d)) is amended by volume that could be used to make deter- form and manner, the information described by striking ‘‘July 1, 2009’’ and inserting minations pursuant to subparagraph (A) for in subclauses (I) and (II) of clause (i).’’. ‘‘July 1, 2011’’. the first competition under the competitive (3) COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION OMBUDSMAN.— (C) IG REPORT.—Section 302(e) of the Medi- acquisition program described in such sub- Such section is further amended by adding at care Prescription Drug, Improvement, and paragraph and submit to the Secretary a re- the end the following new subsection: Modernization Act of 2003 (Public Law 108- ‘‘(f) COMPETITIVE ACQUISITION OMBUDS- 173) is amended by striking ‘‘July 1, 2009’’ port on the results of the study. The Inspec- MAN.—The Secretary shall provide for a com- and inserting ‘‘July 1, 2011’’. tor General shall also conduct such a study petitive acquisition ombudsman within the (3) EVALUATION OF CERTAIN CODE.—The Sec- and submit such a report before the Sec- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in retary of Health and Human Services shall retary conducts a subsequent competitive order to respond to complaints and inquiries evaluate the existing Healthcare Common acquisition program described in subpara- made by suppliers and individuals relating to Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code for graph (A).’’. the application of the competitive acquisi- negative pressure wound therapy to ensure (4) OTHER CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Sec- tion program under this section. The om- accurate reporting and billing for items and tion 1847(b)(11) of such Act, as redesignated budsman may be within the office of the services under such code. In carrying out by paragraph (3), is amended— Medicare Beneficiary Ombudsman appointed such evaluation, the Secretary shall use the (A) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘and under section 1808(c). The ombudsman shall existing process for the consideration of cod- the identification of areas under subsection submit to Congress an annual report on the ing changes and consider all relevant studies (a)(1)(D)(iii)’’ after ‘‘(a)(1)(A)’’; activities under this subsection, which re- and information furnished pursuant to such (B) in subparagraph (D), by inserting ‘‘and port shall be coordinated with the report process. implementation of subsection (a)(1)(D)’’ after provided under section 1808(c)(2)(C).’’. (d) OTHER PROVISIONS.— ‘‘(a)(1)(B)’’;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.035 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5702 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 (C) in subparagraph (E), by striking ‘‘or’’ concerns, unfortunately, have become crease Medicare spending by $3.1 bilat the end; a reality, and urgent action by Con- lion over 5 years. To offset the cost of (D) in subparagraph (F), by striking the pe- gress is required. the legislation, in 2009 those DME riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and These concerns are especially prob- items subject to Round One of the pro- (E) by adding at the end the following new lematic right now in states such as gram will not receive a CPI update, and subparagraph: ‘‘(G) the implementation of the special Iowa in the Midwest which are already payments for those items will be re- rule described in paragraph (10).’’. reeling from the disastrous floods and duced by 9.5 percent. Items not subject (5) FUNDING FOR IMPLEMENTATION.—In addi- tornadoes we have experienced this to Round One will receive a CPI update tion to funds otherwise available, for pur- past month. The loss of many more in 2009, and all DME items will receive poses of implementing the provisions of, and small businesses would be disastrous to CPI updates in years 2010 through 2013. amendments made by, this section, other beneficiaries whose access to needed In 2014, those DME items which were than the amendment made by subsection medical supplies has already been se- subject to the 9.5 percent payment re- (c)(1) and other than section 1847(a)(1)(E) of verely limited, let alone the ripple ef- duction in 2009 will receive an addi- the Social Security Act, the Secretary of fect this would inflict on local econo- tional payment increase of two percent Health and Human Services shall provide for over the CPI unless they are covered by the transfer from the Federal Supplementary mies which have already been severely Medical Insurance Trust Fund established impacted by record floods which have competitive bidding contracts then. under section 1841 of the Social Security Act harmed scores of businesses and cost As is true in many sectors, the DME (42 U.S.C. 1395t) to the Centers for Medicare hundreds of millions of dollars in dam- industry is given a bad name by a few & Medicaid Services Program Management ages. bad apples that spoil the barrel. Unfor- Account of $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2008, and We heard from many medical equip- tunately, we hear on a regular basis $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 ment suppliers that the rules of the from the Office of Inspector General through 2012. Amounts transferred under this competitive bidding program were un- and the Justice Department that the paragraph for a fiscal year shall be available clear or were changed at the last DME industry continues to have far until expended. too many incidents of waste, fraud and (e) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments minute, and that their bids were not made by this section shall take effect as of considered. CMS has told us that abuse. The multi-agency Medicare June 30, 2008. roughly two-thirds of the bids sub- Fraud Task Force formed last year has uncovered numerous examples of Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I am mitted by suppliers were ultimately re- criminal behavior and successfully pleased to introduce the Medicare jected for lack of proper documenta- prosecuted dozens of fraudulent or non- DMEPOS Competitive Acquisition Re- tion or other issues apart from price. existent DME suppliers in South Flor- form Act of 2008 with my colleague, This was done even though CMS had ida and elsewhere. In just over a year, Senator BAUCUS, to delay and reform assured suppliers when the program the task force has brought more than the competitive bidding program for began that they would be notified if 120 cases against nearly 200 defendants Medicare durable medical equipment, their bids lacked the required docu- in South Florida alone who have been prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies. We mentation. Two weeks before the bid- charged with a total of $638 million in are introducing this legislation to adding closed, CMS abruptly decided they fraud. We must have stronger safe- dress serious concerns that have arisen would not provide such notification. guards to ensure that companies who over implementation of the competi- Appropriately, this bill terminates the participate in competitive bidding are tive bidding program which is set to contracts that were awarded under actual, legitimate companies that can take effect in certain areas of the coun- Round One and pays any applicable provide the equipment and services try on July 1, 2008. The bill will delay damages incurred as a result of the ter- they bid to provide. In addition, the In- the start of the competitive bidding minations, if any. In the future, the spector General of the Department of program for 18 months and require the bill requires a more transparent proc- Health and Human Services is required Centers for Medicare and Medicaid ess on the part of CMS. When Round to assess the process used by CMS to Services to review the program and ad- One is re-bid, the bill requires CMS to conduct competitive bidding and verify dress significant issues that have been provide feedback to suppliers with doc- the calculations of the pricing deter- raised regarding implementation of the umentation issues or other problems minations used to determine the pay- program. and give them an opportunity to rem- ment amounts for competitively bid We must act now before the competi- edy the situation before their bids are items in Rounds One and Two. tive bidding program takes effect. We thrown out and excluded from consid- This bill also includes standards must ensure that the frail elderly who eration. which will lead to an improved com- depend on diabetic supplies, oxygen, As Ranking Member of the Senate petitive bidding program. Under the and other medical equipment for life- Finance Committee, I am committed bill, all DME suppliers must be accred- threatening conditions will continue to to ensuring that Medicare dollars are ited and meet quality standards by Oc- have access to essential medical prod- spent wisely and provide high quality tober 2009. We also close a loophole ucts and supplies which are vital to products to seniors at the lowest pos- that currently allows subcontractors their daily lives. The continued viabil- sible cost. The program improvements to remain unaccredited. We heard ity of much of the home medical supply required by this legislation will ensure many complaints about companies industry is in serious jeopardy as a re- more protections for beneficiaries and awarded contracts who had no presence sult of flaws that surfaced in the pro- lead to lower prices and higher quality in the competitively bid area and who gram during the first round of competi- medical products while ensuring that then began to solicit subcontractors to tive bidding. Many small home medical beneficiaries will still have access to assist in carrying out the terms of the equipment suppliers are in danger of the medical equipment and supplies contract they had been awarded. Under going out of business through no fault that they need. These improvements the current program, subcontractors do of their own if the competitive bidding will also help prevent many small not need to meet accreditation stand- program is implemented as planned. home medical equipment suppliers ards. Our bill requires that every com- Losing a significant number of small from going out of business due to a pany that supplies DME in the Medi- suppliers from the home medical equip- flawed bidding process which unfairly care program must meet accreditation ment industry would have severe, unin- eliminated them from the Medicare standards, whether they are primary tended adverse consequences on thou- program for three years. suppliers or subcontractors. sands of beneficiaries who need home In our bill, the cost of delaying the I urge my colleagues to support this medical equipment and supplies. If competitive bidding program and add- legislation to delay the competitive that were to occur, it would severely ing additional safeguards to the pro- bidding program in order to ensure sen- hamper access to essential medical gram would be fully paid for by the du- iors continued access to needed home equipment for an untold number of rable medical equipment industry. Ac- medical equipment and supplies and to beneficiaries. It was due to these very cording to the Congressional Budget remedy flaws in the bidding process concerns that I opposed competitive Office, the delay in implementing com- and make other necessary improve- bidding for DME when it was under petitive bidding and the reforms to the ments in the competitive bidding pro- consideration in 2003. Now, my original program included in this bill will in- gram.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 02:07 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.035 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S5703 NOTICE OF HEARING Foreign Relations be authorized to After 9/11, the Bush administration COMMITTEE ON INDIAN AFFAIRS meet during the session of the Senate eroded many of the most precious Mr. DORGAN. Mr. President, I would on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 2:15 p.m. rights and liberties held by all Ameri- like to announce that the Committee The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without cans. Just last week, the Supreme on Indian Affairs will meet on Thurs- objection, it is so ordered. Court in the Boumediene opinion, beat day, June 19, at 9:30 a.m. in room 562 of COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS back one of these most egregious at- the Dirksen Senate Office Building to Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- tempts, restoring the Great Writ of ha- conduct a business meeting to consider imous consent that the Committee on beas corpus to its rightful place as a pending legislative issues, to be fol- Foreign Relations be authorized to mechanism to guarantee liberty from lowed immediately by a hearing to re- meet during the session of the Senate arbitrary confinement. But this admin- ceive comments on a discussion draft on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 4:30 p.m. istration has also played politics with bill to address law and order in Indian The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without critical voting laws, and failed to pro- Country. objection, it is so ordered. tect our most vulnerable citizens. The Bush administration’s poor civil rights Those wishing additional information f may contact the Indian Affairs Com- record has damaged America’s prestige mittee at 224–2251. PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR around the world, and undermined our f Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask tradition of progress on civil rights. unanimous consent that three law Vermont is a State that holds a AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO unique place in America’s march to- MEET clerks from my Judiciary Committee staff, Erin Mallard, Matt Welling, and ward equal justice. It was the first to COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES Arif Panju, be granted the privilege of outlaw slavery. Vermonters offered Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- the floor for the remainder of this ses- shelter to runaway slaves seeking ref- imous consent that the committee on sion. uge while in transit to Canada. Indeed, Armed Services be authorized to meet The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- in just the tiny town of Brandon, 17 during the session of the Senate on pore. Without objection, it is so or- homes were stations on the Under- Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 9:30 a.m. dered. ground Railroad. I am proud that this The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without month Vermont joined the States rec- objection, it is so ordered. f ognizing Juneteenth as a State holi- COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY day. It is important for our children FORESTRY AND THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON FINAN- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask and grandchildren to know our history, CIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT unanimous consent that the Com- and to know that ordinary people can Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- mittee on the Judiciary be discharged make a difference. imous consent that the Senate Com- As we reflect on the sacrifices of past from further consideration of S. Res. mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition and generations, their example should in- 584 and that the Senate then proceed to Forestry and the Senate Appropria- spire us all in our present day struggle its immediate consideration. tions Subcommittee on Financial Serv- to secure human and civil rights. We The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ices and General Government, be au- must reaffirm our faith in our cher- objection, it is so ordered. thorized to meet during the session of ished freedoms and restore our com- The clerk will report the resolution the Senate on Tuesday, June 17, 2008 at mitment to protect basic rights. I hope by title. 10:30 a.m. in room 192 of the Dirksen all Americans will celebrate The legislative clerk read as follows: Senate office building. Juneteenth by working towards build- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without A resolution (S. Res. 584) recognizing the ing the more perfect union we want for objection, it is so ordered. historical significance of Juneteenth Inde- pendence Day and expressing the sense of the generations to come. COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL Senate that history should be regarded as a Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask RESOURCES means for understanding the past and solv- unanimous consent that the resolution Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- ing the challenges of the future. be agreed to, the preamble be agreed imous consent that the Committee on There being no objection, the Senate to, the motions to reconsider be laid Energy and Natural Resources be au- upon the table, with no intervening ac- thorized to meet during the session of proceeded to consider the resolution. Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, this week tion or debate, and that any state- the Senate in order to conduct a hear- ments related to the resolution be ing on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 10 we commemorate the 143rd anniversary of Juneteenth, the day our Nation’s printed in the RECORD. a.m., in room SD366 of the Dirksen The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without moral pendulum swung from slavery to Senate Office Building. objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without freedom. The resolution (S. Res. 584) was objection, it is so ordered. On June 19, 1865, our Nation turned a agreed to. COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL significant corner. We ushered in what The preamble was agreed to. RESOURCES President Lincoln called in his Gettys- The resolution, with its preamble, Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- burg address a ‘‘new birth of freedom.’’ reads as follows: imous consent that the Committee on We ended an oppression endured by S. RES. 584 Energy and Natural Resources be au- generations of Americans and threw off Whereas news of the end of slavery did not thorized to meet during the session of the chains that shackled our common reach frontier areas of the United States, the Senate in order to conduct a hear- bond of freedom. We laid the roots for and in particular the Southwestern States, ing on Tuesday, June 17, 2008, at 2:30 a constitutional revolution that, for more than 2 years after President Lin- p.m., in room SD366 of the Dirksen through the Civil War Amendments, coln’s Emancipation Proclamation of Janu- Senate Office Building. transformed our founding charter from ary 1, 1863, and months after the conclusion The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without one that defended oppression, to one of the Civil War; that embraced equal rights and human Whereas, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers objection, it is so ordered. led by Major General Gordon Granger ar- COMMITTEE ON FINANCE dignity. rived in Galveston, Texas, with news that Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- Over a century later we have made the Civil War had ended and that the imous consent that the Committee on significant progress, but the struggle enslaved were free; Finance be authorized to meet during to secure basic rights for all remains Whereas African-Americans who had been the session of the Senate on Tuesday, unfulfilled. Just a few months ago, the slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 19, June 17, 2008, at 10 a.m., in room 215 of United Nations Convention on the commonly known as ‘‘Juneteenth Independ- the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Elimination of All Forms of Discrimi- ence Day’’, as the anniversary of their eman- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without nation found that racial disparities cipation; Whereas African-Americans from the objection, it is so ordered. continue to challenge our commitment Southwest continue the tradition of cele- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS to equality. I was not surprised to see brating Juneteenth Independence Day as in- Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unan- that the U.N. report rebuked this ad- spiration and encouragement for future gen- imous consent that the Committee on ministration’s poor civil rights record. erations;

VerDate Aug 31 2005 03:04 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN6.040 S17JNPT1 smartinez on PROD1PC64 with SENATE S5704 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE June 17, 2008 Whereas, for more than 140 years, and, when detected early, has a 96 percent tional Men’s Health Week with appropriate Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations survival rate; ceremonies and activities. have been held to honor African-American Whereas the number of cases of colon can- freedom while encouraging self-development cer among men will reach almost 54,000 in f 2008, and almost 1⁄2 will die from the disease; and respect for all cultures; AUTHORIZING THE ADMINIS- Whereas, although Juneteenth Independ- Whereas the likelihood that a man will de- ence Day is beginning to be recognized as a velop prostate cancer is 1 in 6; TRATOR OF THE ENVIRON- national, and even global, event, the history Whereas the number of men developing MENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY behind the celebration should not be forgot- prostate cancer will reach over 186,320 in TO ACCEPT SUPPLEMENTAL EN- ten; and 2008, and an estimated 28,660 will die from VIRONMENTAL PROJECTS the disease; Whereas the faith and strength of char- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask the acter demonstrated by former slaves remains Whereas African-American men in the an example for all people of the United United States have the highest incidence in Chair to lay before the Senate a mes- States, regardless of background, religion, or the world of prostate cancer; sage from the House of Representatives race: Now, therefore, be it Whereas significant numbers of health on S. 2146. Resolved, That— problems that affect men, such as prostate The PRESIDING OFFICER laid be- (1) the Senate— cancer, testicular cancer, colon cancer, and fore the Senate the following message (A) recognizes the historical significance of infertility, could be detected and treated if from the House of Representatives: Juneteenth Independence Day to the Nation; men’s awareness of these problems was more (B) supports the continued celebration of pervasive; S. 2146 Juneteenth Independence Day to provide an Whereas more than 1⁄2 of the elderly wid- Resolved, That the bill from the Senate opportunity for the people of the United ows now living in poverty were not poor be- (S. 2146) entitled ‘‘An Act to authorize the States to learn more about the past and to fore the death of their husbands, and by age Administrator of the Environmental Protec- understand better the experiences that have 100 women outnumber men 8 to 1; tion Agency to accept, as part of a settle- shaped the Nation; and Whereas educating both the public and ment, diesel emission reduction Supple- (C) encourages the people of the United health care providers about the importance mental Environmental Projects, and for States to observe Juneteenth Independence of early detection of male health problems other purposes’’, do pass with the following Day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, will result in reducing rates of mortality for amendment: and programs; and these diseases; Strike out all after the enacting clause (2) it is the sense of the Senate that— Whereas appropriate use of tests such as and insert: (A) history should be regarded as a means prostate specific antigen (PSA) exams, blood pressure screens, and cholesterol screens, in SECTION 1. EPA AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT DIESEL for understanding the past and solving the EMISSIONS REDUCTION SUPPLE- challenges of the future; and conjunction with clinical examination and self-testing for problems such as testicular MENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL (B) the celebration of the end of slavery is PROJECTS. cancer, can result in the detection of many an important and enriching part of the his- The Administrator of the Environmental Pro- tory and heritage of the United States. of these problems in their early stages and increase the survival rates to nearly 100 per- tection Agency (hereinafter, the ‘‘Agency’’) may f cent; accept (notwithstanding sections 3302 and 1301 Whereas women are 100 percent more like- of title 31, United States Code) diesel emissions SUPPORTING NATIONAL MEN’S reduction Supplemental Environmental Projects HEALTH WEEK ly to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services than men; if the projects, as part of a settlement of any al- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask Whereas men are less likely than women to leged violations of environmental law— unanimous consent that the HELP visit their health center or physician for reg- (1) protect human health or the environment; Committee be discharged from further ular screening examinations of male-related (2) are related to the underlying alleged violations; consideration and the Senate now pro- problems for a variety of reasons, including fear, lack of health insurance, lack of infor- (3) do not constitute activities that the defend- ceed to S. Res. 585. ant would otherwise be legally required to per- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without mation, and cost factors; Whereas National Men’s Health Week was form; and objection, it is so ordered. The clerk established by Congress in 1994 and urged (4) do not provide funds for the staff of the will report the resolution by title. men and their families to engage in appro- Agency or for contractors to carry out the Agen- The legislative clerk read as follows: priate health behaviors, and the resulting in- cy’s internal operations. A resolution (S. Res. 585) supporting Na- creased awareness has improved health-re- SEC. 2. SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT PROVISIONS. tional Men’s Health Week. lated education and helped prevent illness; In any settlement agreement regarding alleged There being no objection, the Senate Whereas the Governors of over 45 States violations of environmental law in which a de- proceeded to consider the resolution. issue proclamations annually declaring fendant agrees to perform a diesel emissions re- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, I ask Men’s Health Week in their States; duction Supplemental Environmental Project, unanimous consent that the resolution Whereas, since 1994, National Men’s Health the Administrator of the Environmental Protec- Week has been celebrated each June by doz- tion Agency shall require the defendant to in- be agreed to, the preamble be agreed ens of States, cities, localities, public health clude in the settlement documents a certification to, and the motions to reconsider be departments, health care entities, churches, under penalty of law that the defendant would laid upon the table. and community organizations throughout have agreed to perform a comparably valued, al- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without the Nation, that promote health awareness ternative project other than a diesel emissions objection, it is so ordered. events focused on men and family; reduction Supplemental Environmental Project The resolution (S. Res. 585) was Whereas the National Men’s Health Week if the Administrator were precluded by law from agreed to. Internet website has been established at accepting a diesel emission reduction Supple- The preamble was agreed to. www.menshealthweek.org and features Gov- mental Environmental Project. A failure by the The resolution, with its preamble, ernors’ proclamations and National Men’s Administrator to include this language in such reads as follows: Health Week events; a settlement agreement shall not create a cause Whereas men who are educated about the of action against the United States under the S. RES. 585 value that preventive health can play in pro- Clean Air Act or any other law or create a basis Whereas, despite advances in medical tech- longing their lifespan and their role as pro- for overturning a settlement agreement entered nology and research, men continue to live an ductive family members will be more likely into by the United States. average of more than 5 years less than to participate in health screenings; SEC. 3. INCLUSION OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUM- women, and African-American men have the Whereas men and their families are en- BIA IN CERTAIN STATE AND LOCAL lowest life expectancy; couraged to increase their awareness of the GRANT PROGRAMS FOR DIESEL Whereas 9 of the 10 leading causes of death, importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular ex- EMISSION REDUCTIONS. as defined by the Centers for Disease Control ercise, and medical checkups; and (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 791 of the Energy and Prevention, affect men at a higher per- Whereas June 9 through 15, 2008, is Na- Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 16131) is amended centage than women; tional Men’s Health Week, which has the by adding at the end thereof the following: Whereas, between ages 45 and 54, men are 3 purpose of heightening the awareness of pre- ‘‘(9) DEFINITION OF STATE.—The term ‘State’ times more likely than women to die of ventable health problems and encouraging includes the District of Columbia.’’. heart attacks; early detection and treatment of disease (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—(1) Section Whereas men die of heart disease at 11⁄2 among men and boys: Now, therefore, be it 793(d)(2) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 16133(d)(2)) is times the rate of women; Resolved, That the Senate— amended by striking ‘‘Governor’’ and inserting Whereas men die of cancer at almost 11⁄2 (1) supports the annual National Men’s ‘‘chief executive’’. times the rate of women; Health Week; and (2) Subparagraphs (A) and (B) of section Whereas testicular cancer is one of the (2) calls upon the people of the United 793(c)(2) of such Act are each amended by strik- most common cancers in men aged 15 to 34, States and interested groups to observe Na- ing ‘‘50’’ and inserting ‘‘51’’ and by striking ‘‘2

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HONORING THE JUNIOR GROUP On #408, on agreeing to the resolution pro- the largest Caribbean American shipping com- EXHIBIT TEAM FROM CHUCKEY- viding for consideration of H.R. 5749, I would pany in Brooklyn. DOAK MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Hawthorne’s success has led him to pursue THEIR FIRST-PLACE PERFORM- On #409, on passage of H.R. 1553, the various humanitarian efforts in Brooklyn and ANCE IN THE TENNESSEE HIS- Conquer Childhood Cancer Act, I would have its East Flatbush community. Hawthorne once TORY DAY COMPETITION voted ‘‘yea.’’ stated ‘‘give a community of good people, On #410, on the motion to table the appeal, good services, respect and opportunity, and HON. DAVID DAVIS I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ the potential for growth is inevitable.’’ Haw- OF TENNESSEE On #411, on the motion to recommit with in- thorne has committed to service and supports IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES structions H.R. 5749, I would have voted NAY. various outreach programs; he has donated On #412, on passage of H.R. 5749, I would time and money to community organizations Tuesday, June 17, 2008 have voted ‘‘yea.’’ including the East Flatbush Friends Education, Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. Madam On #413, on passage of S. 2146, I would Caribbean American Outreach Association, Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Jun- have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Children Outreach of Jamaica, Kings Highway ior Group Exhibit Team from Chuckey-Doak f Development Project, local churches, senior Middle School for their first-place performance civic organizations, and schools. in the Tennessee History Day competition. IN HONOR OF THE FALLEN HE- It is important that we recognize Hawthorne, They will now move on to the national com- ROES OF 1–34 BRIGADE COMBAT not only for his success through his Brooklyn- petition next week. TEAM based business, but also for his commitment The Chuckey-Doak Middle School team, to serving the citizens of Brooklyn. composed of students Emily Frazier and Katie HON. MICHELE BACHMANN f Adams, also took first place with their perform- OF MINNESOTA ance on Women’s Suffrage: The Conflict With- INTRODUCTION OF VETERANS AND IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in. SURVIVORS DENTAL INSURANCE To understand and present these topics in Tuesday, June 17, 2008 ACT OF 2008 an articulate way is a noteworthy and out- Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, I rise standing accomplishment. The students have today to pay tribute to 20 heroes who served HON. STEVE BUYER represented Chuckey-Doak Middle School and the people of our Nation valiantly in Operation OF INDIANA East Tennessee in an exceptional way. Iraqi Freedom and who this past weekend IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES With their first-place performance, the team were honored at the Fallen Heroes Memorial will travel to the University of Maryland and in Bloomington, Minnesota. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 compete against other students from across SPC Benjamin J. Slaven, SGT Brent W. Mr. BUYER. Madam Speaker, today I am the country at the 2007–2008 National History Koch, SPC Kyle R. Miller, Staff SGT Jeffrey J. introducing the Veterans and Survivors Dental Day competition. Hansen, Staff SGT Joshua R. Hanson, SGT Insurance Act of 2008. This legislation would It is a pleasure to see that these students Germaine L. Debro, SPC Kampha B. authorize the Department of Veterans Affairs are taking the initiative to represent their Sourivong, SGT 1st Class Scott E. Nisely, (VA) to offer a voluntary dental insurance plan schools in the most upstanding way. Their SGT Bryan T. McDonough, and SGT Corey J. for certain veterans, their survivors and de- dedication to knowledge, excellence and hard Rystad. pendents. work is honorable and I congratulate them on SGT Nicholas D. Turcotte, Staff SGT Thom- Under current law, veterans with service- their successes. as W. Clemons, Staff SGT James M. Wosika, connected dental conditions, a total service- Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues Jr., SPC Carla J. Stewart, SGT MAJ Michael connected disability, and former Prisoners of join me in honoring Emily Frazer and Katie C. Mettille, SGT 1st Class David R. Berry, War are eligible for lifetime, comprehensive Adams and in wishing them the best of luck at Staff SGT Greg N. Riewer, SGT Joshua A. dental care from VA. Newly discharged vet- next week’s National History Day competition. Schmit, SGT Brandon L. Wallace, and Staff erans are eligible for a one-time, comprehen- f SGT Robert J. Basham. sive dental evaluation and restorative services. PERSONAL EXPLANATION Each made the ultimate sacrifice for our Additionally, veterans with dental problems freedoms and each deserves a special place negatively impacting a medical condition, dis- HON. BRIAN HIGGINS in America’s history and America’s heart. I join abled veterans receiving vocational rehabilita- with their friends, family, and comrades who tion training, and certain homeless veterans OF NEW YORK were in attendance this weekend in honoring are eligible for limited dental care. VA also IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES their memories. provides inpatient emergency dental treatment Tuesday, June 17, 2008 f at its medical facilities. Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I missed In 1997, Congress first authorized the several rollcall votes on June 12, 2008. I A TRIBUTE TO DENNIS TRICARE Retiree Dental Program (TRDP). As would like to enter into the record how I in- HAWTHORNE Chairman of the House Armed Services Mili- tended to vote on these rollcall votes had I tary Personnel Subcommittee during the 105th been present: HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS and 106th Congresses, I helped champion the On #405, on ordering the previous question OF NEW YORK TRDP program. It is a voluntary, all-enrollee- on the resolution providing for consideration of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES paid dental program that currently covers over H.R. 6063, the National Aeronautics and 800,000 retired members of the uniformed Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Space Administration Authorization Act, I services, including National Guard and Re- would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today serve personnel, and their families. This pro- On #406, on agreeing to the resolution pro- in recognition of Dennis Hawthorne, owner of gram offers military retirees an affordable viding for consideration of H.R. 6063, I would Dennis Shipping, a renowned shipping com- comprehensive dental benefit program that have voted ‘‘yea.’’ pany located in Brooklyn, NY. covers diagnostic and preventive services, On #407, on ordering the previous question Hawthorne is a native of Jamaica, NY and basic restorative services, periodontics, on the resolution providing for consideration of migrated to Brooklyn, NY in 1985 where he endodontics, oral surgery, and dental emer- H.R. 5749, the Emergency Extended Unem- founded Dennis Photography and Shipping. In gencies. ployment Compensation Act, I would have addition, Hawthorne founded the Caribbean Madam Speaker, this legislation would sim- voted ‘‘yea.’’ American Shippers Association which is now ply provide eligible veterans, survivors, and

∑ 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 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17JN8.012 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 dependents the option of enrolling in a high- TRIBUTE TO RENDY AND RENEE as they continue to add greatness to their quality and affordable dental care plan similar MAO community. to what is available for military retirees under f TRDP. I assure my colleagues that nothing in HON. BILL SHUSTER THE INTRODUCTION OF A SENSE OF PENNSYLVANIA this Act would diminish the responsibility of the OF THE HOUSE RESOLUTION IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Secretary to provide dental care under current CONCERNING SPECULATION IN law. Eligibility for VA dental benefits according Tuesday, June 17, 2008 CRUDE OIL MARKETS to law would not change. Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise Important to overall health and quality of life today to recognize the heroic efforts and dedi- HON. THOMAS E. PETRI is maintaining good dental health. I urge my cation of Rendy and Renee Mao. Throughout OF WISCONSIN colleagues to cosponsor the Veterans and the past months, Rendy and his sister Renee IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Survivors Dental Insurance Act of 2008. have worked tirelessly to raise money to feed victims of the devastating earthquake which hit Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Mr. PETRI. Madam Speaker, today, I am in- f Sichuan Province, China on May 12, 2008. The Maos’ idea of fundraising for earth- troducing a resolution calling for the U.S. Gov- HONORING RAQUEL GONZALEZ quake relief began from within the classroom. ernment to lead a global diplomatic initiative to One of the student’s teachers suggested look- limit the incentives for speculation in crude oil ing further into current events occurring across futures through the adoption of international HON. HENRY CUELLAR the globe. Teachers across America plant im- standards for margin requirements on specula- portant seeds in the minds of children, and tive trading in oil futures. By establishing this OF TEXAS Rendy’s German teacher at Mercersburg policy we can moderate surging oil prices and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Academy is no exception. Through edu- bring relief to consumers around the world. cational discussions about the importance of Margin payments are paid to an exchange Tuesday, June 17, 2008 global awareness and global connections, a when purchasing a futures contract. Akin to an teacher sparked the mind of not only Rendy escrow deposit in a real estate transaction, Mr. CUELLAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today Mao, but also Renee Mao. Together, these margin requirements are set by exchanges to honor Ms. Raquel Gonzalez, for her com- students realized the immensity of the devas- and not government regulation. On the New mitment to the small business community in tation which ravaged rural China and felt the York Mercantile Exchange, the purchase of a Laredo, Texas, and her tenure as the longest- need to act. Their decision to act led them to standard oil futures contract for 1,000 barrels serving member of the board of trustees at the set a goal of raising five thousand dollars by carries a margin requirement of just over Laredo Community College. June 30, 2008 for the victims of the Sichuan $10,000, a small percentage of the value of a Raquel spent her early years learning the earthquake. If this goal is reached, over five contract with a settlement price this week of thousand earthquake victims will be fed for a $135,000 for oil priced at $135 per barrel. value of hard work at her father’s business, day. This laudable decision has set an exam- This relatively small amount of capital re- J.B. Gonzalez Garage. Upon graduation from ple for all of us. quired to purchase a contract and reap poten- high school, she became the full-time man- In order to make their dream of helping oth- tially sizeable gains from the daily movements ager of her father’s business, which she ers a reality, Rendy and Renee began to in- in the price of crude oil is an attractive invita- turned over to her brothers so she could con- crease awareness in their community through tion to speculative investors. Higher margin re- centrate on other ventures. Raquel invested in several steps. First, they focused on alerting quirements would reduce this incentive by lim- real estate, forming the Southgate Subdivision the public to the events which had crumbled iting such opportunities for gain. By removing to develop affordable housing in South La- part of a nation, through word of mouth and speculative money from the crude oil market, redo, and also invested in oil and gas wells in flyers. The flyers provided a variety of informa- we can begin to bring down oil prices and re- South Texas. In 1980, Raquel began serving tion on the earthquake as well as outlined lieve the pain our constituents feel at the gas as a trustee on the Trustee Board of the La- their planned actions for the funding of their pump. redo Community College, and has honorably effort. As their message spread, the number of Currently, there is a heated debate of volunteers throughout the community in- whether a growth in speculative trading is worked to promote the value of education in creased, which multiplied the effectiveness of showing up as part of a ‘‘speculative pre- empowering the lives of young people in La- their efforts. The goal of this drive is not only mium’’ built into the price of crude oil. Be- redo, Texas. Her dedication and hard work to raise money to support the needs of the cause so much trading in energy futures takes helped the Laredo Community College be- victims, but also to assure the victims that place in unregulated exchanges, there is a come one of the most acclaimed community their plight has not gone unnoticed and will not shortage of good information, and we lack the colleges in the nation. be ignored. The teens have collected hun- empirical evidence necessary to make a firm Ms. Gonzalez has also received many ac- dreds of signatures to demonstrate to the vic- conclusion. claims from the business community in Laredo tims that residents of Franklin County, Penn- In the absence of such firm data, some for her successful entrepreneurship and civic sylvania support them by sending not only fi- have argued that tight supplies and high de- involvement. She was the first female director nancial aid but also their thoughts and pray- mand are the only explanation for high prices. of the Laredo Chamber of Commerce in 1983, ers. On the other hand, many have suggested that These students have truly practiced what heightened speculation has resulted in adding served as the Director of the Falcon National they have been taught and have set an exam- anywhere from $10 to $35 to the price of each Bank, and was recognized by the Republican ple for communities throughout this nation and barrel of oil. The market indications cited by National Hispanic Assembly for exceptional the world. As Rendy and Renee reflect upon supporters of the market speculation theory service to the community. She also received their work and their dedication to helping oth- are impressive and include: the Congressional Certificate of Merit in 1992, ers, they can certainly be proud of their serv- April 2008 oil stocks held by the U.S. and its and was named the Small Business Person of ice to the community of the Sichuan Province. fellow members of the Organization for Eco- the Year and inducted into the Laredo Wom- These two students are wonderful representa- nomic Cooperation and Development totaled en’s Hall of Fame in 1995. Ms. Gonzalez re- tives of Pennsylvania. They have exhibited 2.562 million barrels, above recent averages mains an active member of the Financial compassion and determination to help others and sufficient for 53.4 days of consumption. Women International, Rotary Under Seven who are less fortunate than themselves. The The president of OPEC, Chakib Khelil of Al- Flags, the Texas Land Title Association, and Maos, along with the community of Franklin geria, in declining to commit the organization’s the Women’s City Club. County, all deserve our thanks and congratu- members to a production increase, noted that lations on their hard work toward giving an ex- supply was exceeding demand by one-half Madam Speaker, I am honored to have had traordinary $5,000 contribution to the victims million barrels per day. this time to recognize the dedication of Ms. of the Sichuan Province earthquake. I would OPEC has also lowered its forecast of aver- Raquel Gonzalez to the small business com- like to wish Rendy and Renee the best in their age daily global consumption of oil by 60,000 munity in Laredo, Texas, and her contributions future endeavors as they continue to serve barrels, the third time this year that the oil car- to higher education as a member of the Board Franklin County and the world. I thank them tel has reduced its estimate. This view coin- of Trustees at Laredo Community College. for their far-reaching commitment and service cides with that of the International Energy

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.002 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1239 Agency whose monthly Oil Market Report for A TRIBUTE TO ROBERT C. American people are listening. Obviously June reported that oil consumers would use DESOUZA though, Madam Speaker, the Air Force isn’t. 70,000 barrels less per month than it had pre- The United States Air Force spends more viously estimated. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS than $6.6 billion per year on fuel costs and rising fuel prices continues to drive this number An economist with WTRG Economics was OF NEW YORK higher. As a taxpayer and supporter of our quoted by MarketWatch as observing, ‘‘We IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES men and women in uniform, I believe the Air had another week of uncertainty, with oil trad- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Force should be doing all they can to heed the ing more as a currency and inflation hedge Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today call and maximize fuel economy wherever than based upon the fundamentals. This will in recognition of Robert C. DeSouza, a very possible. continue to be the case as long as the long- special resident of the Springfield Gardens However, the Air Force in their recent tanker only index funds are allowed free rein in the Community. award has determined that the opposite path futures market. ‘‘ Bob, as he is affectionately known through is appropriate. The Air Force selection of an Since 2003, investment in commodity index the area was born in Clarendon, Jamaica. He Airbus aircraft over the more fuel efficient Boe- funds has risen from $13 billion to $260 billion. graduated from Kingston College and then ing aircraft has real impacts and costs for went on to pursue an education in Business every American. National Journal has cited the writings of Management at the University of the West In- The independent firm Conklin & de Decker Anit Anand of brokerage firm KRChoksey in dies before he came to the United States in Aviation Information has completed a study reporting the number of current energy hedge 1982. Here he earned a B.S in Business Ad- that shows the Boeing offering to be nearly 25 funds as 634, up from 180 in October 2004. ministration from Iona College in Westchester, percent more fuel efficient than the Airbus air- Recognizing the significance of these New York. craft. Over the 40 year life of the aircraft at oil trends, the Commodity Futures Trading Com- Mr. DeSouza, the CEO of Trans Continental at $125 a barrel this will result in additional mission has announced the formation of an Express Shippers, has garnered the respect of costs to Americans of nearly $30 billion dollars interagency task force to examine investor his peers, his immediate community and the and more than 2.24 billion gallons of additional practices, supply and demand factors, and the Jamaican Diaspora at large. He is largely refuel not available to help bring relief to the role of speculators. Additionally, on June 14, sponsible for the awareness and education of record prices. 2008, the International Monetary Fund, re- the Shipping Fraternity which he has been as- Now Madam Speaker, I understand that our sponding to a call from Group of Eight finance sociated with for over 25 years. His company military must choose the best tool for the war ministers, agreed to look into the role that fu- sponsors countless public and private events, fighter and fuel is but one critical input. How- tures trading has played in pushing crude oil offers scholarships and financial support to ever, when the Boeing offering meets or ex- prices ever higher. community residents locally and in the Carib- ceeds all Air Force requirements with better bean region. He is the epitome of humility and technology and maximum operational capa- Certainly, other factors influence the price of character. bility when compared to the Airbus aircraft, it oil, and it is only fair to examine whether any His commitment and unwavering service simply defies common sense that the Air is responsible for the current situation. and dedication to the community have earned Force would choose to add this burden to Oil prices are subject to a ‘‘political risk pre- him numerous awards and accolades such as Americans. Higher cost? Less capability? mium’’ caused by instability and the threat of The Jamaica Consul General Award for Out- More fuel? Madam Speaker it is time for Con- violence in countries producing significant standing Contribution to the Jamaican and gress to take a closer look. quantities of oil. While the political climate in Caribbean Community. His other accomplish- f these areas remains tense, it cannot be said ments include: The Proclamation Honor by the City Council of New York, The Proclamation IN REMEMBRANCE OF ALIOUNE to have changed appreciably for the worse BLONDIN BEYE over the past five years. Award by the Brooklyn Borough President, The Corporate Award of Excellence from Em- Long term supply questions also are part of pire State Grand Chapter, and the Man of the HON. DONALD M. PAYNE today’s crude oil price. Yes, there are fears Year Award for Outstanding Community Serv- OF NEW JERSEY that supplies are diminishing, encouraged by ice from Heartbeats of Jamaica (Father Greg- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES peak oil theorists, but there has been no new ory Ramkissoon-Mustard Seed), to name a Tuesday, June 17, 2008 dramatic information on this point that would few. explain the 94 percent price boost that He is a member of the New York State Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, June 26, Bloomberg Financial has reported over the Board of Realtors, American Society of Nota- 2008, will mark the tenth anniversary of the past year. ries, Cambria Heights Civic Association, St. passing of Alioune Blondin Beye in the crash of a light plane near Abidjan. Maitre Beye, as Finally, some point to the drop in the value Albans Chamber of Commerce and the Treas- urer for the Kiwanis Club of Rosedale/ he was known, was undertaking one of his fre- of the dollar to explain the price pain felt by quent missions to build support for an agree- U.S. consumers. This explanation, too, falls Laurelton Queens, New York. Despite his busy and hectic schedule, Bob ment to end the civil war in Angola, a war that short of providing a satisfactory answer. While had lasted for two decades, cost more than a the dollar price of crude oil is 4.3 times higher finds the time to share with the elderly, the Lit- tle League Baseball of South East Queens, half million lives, and left more than three mil- than it was in 2004, Europeans also are pay- and assists with youth counseling within the lion people homeless. A former Foreign Min- ing 2.7 times more for oil purchased with the community. He is a person who you will al- ister of Mali and Secretary General of the Afri- much stronger euro. ways hear saying something uplifting and can Development Bank, Maitre Beye had been In the final analysis, it’s clear that among positive. He still lives in Springfield Gardens serving for five years as Special Representa- these components of the price of oil, only New York and is married to Arlene and is the tive of the United Nations Secretary General commodities trading has seen a dramatic proud father of two sons, Robert Jr. and for the Angolan peace process and President change of pace. It is hard to escape the con- Darren. of the Joint Peace Commission for Angola. One of the world’s most dedicated peace- clusion 4 that financial trading plays a contrib- f uting role in having pushed crude oil prices up makers, Maitre Beye touched the lives of all THE AIR FORCE AND HIGH FUEL 94 percent in the past year. those who knew him and worked with him, COSTS and was beloved by millions of Malians, Ango- We need to take action to restore the mar- lans, and other peoples of Africa and beyond ket for oil futures to its intended purpose—not HON. SAM GRAVES for his selfless dedication to the cause of as a speculative vehicle for energy hedge OF MISSOURI peace, justice, human rights, and national rec- funds. At the same time, we need to recognize IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES onciliation. A French speaker among the international nature of energy trading and Lusophones, a Moslem in a country of Chris- implement market reforms globally. My resolu- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 tians and animists, Maitre Beye’s life was the tion calls upon the diplomatic and financial Mr. GRAVES. Madam Speaker, every day ultimate symbol of selflessness and dedication leadership of the U.S. government to begin the American people are faced with another to the common humanity of all people. Along this process. I urge my colleagues to support headline about record fuel prices. We have with Maitre Beye, seven other people were this resolution. been urged to reduce consumption and the killed in the tragic plane crash, all committed

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.006 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 men of peace. These included Koffi Adjoyi, With a membership of approximately 240 TRIBUTE TO GENE AND CAROLE Alvaro Costa, Baendegar Dessande, Amadou men and women from a host of vocations, the VUKELIC ON THEIR 50TH WED- Moctar Gueye, Jason Hunter, Andrew Rotary Club of Monroe takes an active role in DING ANNIVERSARY McCurrah, and Ibikunle Williams. the community through many local civic and Maitre Beye’s relatives, friends and col- charitable organizations including the Amer- HON. BRIAN HIGGINS leagues will commemorate the life and times ican Cancer Society, American Red Cross, OF NEW YORK of this great man and to honor the others who Salvation Army, Fellowship of Christian Ath- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES died that day by hosting a memorial service at letes, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, YMCA, Monroe the New York Headquarters of the United Na- Youth Baseball, the Food Bank of Northeast Tuesday, June 17, 2008 tions—the institution he loved and in whose Louisiana, Camp Quality, and the Salvation Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today service he ultimately gave his life—on June Army Christmas Party which provides gifts to to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Gene and Carole 26, 2008. The program for Maitre Beye will not needy children. Vukelic on their 50th wedding anniversary. be a sad memorial, but a joyous celebration of The Rotary Club of Monroe also actively as- Gene and Carole have raised seven chil- the life of this great man of wisdom and sists local high schools by sponsoring Interact dren, and their five sons, Paul, Jeff, Tim, humor, and a tribute to the peace he and his Clubs at four Monroe schools and also spon- Peter, and Matthew, all work for Try-It Distrib- colleagues sought to bring to the world. We soring two high school students to attend uting, the company Gene’s father started in wish them our best in this honorable endeav- Camp RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership 1928 and a recipient of the Canisius College or. Awards). The Rotary Club of Monroe also as- Center for Entrepreneurship Family Business f sists attendees of Boys’ and Girls’ State and of the Year. funds an endowed scholarship at the Univer- A devoted Western New Yorker, Gene was TRIBUTE TO HIGHLAND BULLDOGS sity of Louisiana at Monroe. raised in Lackawanna, New York and attended Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Canisius High School and LeMoyne College in HON. JOHN SHIMKUS me in honoring the Rotary Club of Monroe, Syracuse. The son of a Croatian immigrant, OF ILLINOIS which will celebrate its 90th anniversary on Gene learned the value of hard work and te- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES June 26, 2008, for the countless ways the club nacity in the face of adversity from his father, Stephen. Stephen only went to school until the Tuesday, June 17, 2008 has worked since 1918 to enrich the surrounding community and through each indi- sixth grade and worked wherever he could, in- Mr. SHIMKUS. Madam Speaker, today I rise vidual member’s commitment to putting ‘‘Serv- cluding at the Bethlehem Steel plant in Lacka- to pay tribute to an outstanding group of ice Above Self.’’ wanna. According to Gene, however, Stephen young men from Highland, Illinois, who last Vukelic was ‘‘an entrepreneur at heart’’. When week completed an amazing baseball season f he was 28 years old, Stephen opened the Try- by winning the state championship. It Bottling Works company in a small building The Highland Bulldogs defeated Crystal JUNIOR GROUP PERFORMANCE with one truck, and started bottling soft drinks Lake Central in the semifinals, then knocked TEAM FROM MOSHEIM MIDDLE in Lackawanna. Today, Try-It Distributing Co., off Rock Falls 6–2 on Saturday, June 7, to SCHOOL FOR THEIR FIRST- Inc. is a hugely successful beverage firm. clinch the Class 3A state title at Silver Cross PLACE PERFORMANCE IN TEN- Gene has carried on his father’s spirit of en- Field in Joliet. It was the first baseball state NESSEE HISTORY DAY. trepreneurship and is now Chairman and Chief title for Highland. Executive Officer of Try-It Distributing Com- My congratulations go to Head Coach Joel pany. His five sons work with him to develop Hawkins, Assistant Coaches Sam Weber, HON. DAVID DAVIS the business their great grandfather started 80 Jason Wiegand and Caleb Houchins, Trainer OF TENNESSEE years ago. Jamie Wagner, and the members of the 2008 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Madam Speaker, it is a great honor for me state champion Highland Bulldogs team: Gary to recognize Gene and Carole Vukelic for their Kharibian, Travis Becherer, Brandon Koisher, Tuesday, June 17, 2008 tenacity, passion, and dedication to the West- Randy Knebel, Chris Sudhoff, Luke Potthast, Mr. DAVID DAVIS of Tennessee. Madam ern New York community. I would like to offer Ben Fieker, Sean Gagen, Gabe Fuehne, Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Jun- my sincere congratulations in celebration of Corey Gall, Wes DeGroot, Josh Ammann, An- ior Group Performance Team from Mosheim their 50 golden years together, and extend my drew Kimmle, Jake Odorizzi, Justin Middle School for their first-place performance best wishes to the Vukelics and their family on Huelsmann, Dan Gifford, Brent Kuper and in the Tennessee History Day competition. their 50th wedding anniversary. Luke Haberer. They will now move on to the national com- f These young men represented themselves, petition next week. IN HONOR OF THE MINNESOTA AS- their families and their community in a first- The Mosheim Middle School team, com- class fashion, and I wish them all the best in SISTANCE COUNCIL FOR VET- posed of students Brianna Morrow, Melissa ERANS their future endeavors, both on and off the Kinser and Brittany Loveall, took first place field. with their performance on the Salem Witch f Trials. HON. MICHELE BACHMANN OF MINNESOTA HONORING THE ROTARY CLUB OF To understand and present these topics in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES MONROE FOR 90 YEARS OF an articulate way is a noteworthy and out- SERVICE standing accomplishment. The students have Tuesday, June 17, 2008 represented Mosheim Middle School and East Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, since HON. RODNEY ALEXANDER Tennessee in an exceptional way. its founding in 1992 with the financial assist- With their first-place performance, the team OF LOUISIANA ance of a local VFW post, the Minnesota As- will travel to the University of Maryland and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sistance Council for Veterans, MAC–V, has compete against other students from across been serving Minnesota’s veterans with pride Tuesday, June 17, 2008 the country at the 2007–2008 National History and honor. Back then, it started by providing Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam Speaker, I rise Day competition. 4 homeless veterans with shelter and support. today to commemorate the Rotary Club of It is a pleasure to see that these students Today, it serves hundreds all across the state. Monroe, which for 90 years has faithfully car- are taking the initiative to represent their Too often, our brave heroes return from ried on the mission of Rotary International to schools in the most upstanding way. Their service to find the life they had left behind has ‘‘Serve Above Self.’’ dedication to knowledge, excellence and hard left them behind in their absence. MAC–V First established in 1918, Monroe, LA’s Ro- work is honorable and I congratulate them on helps our veterans pick up the pieces of their tary Club bears the distinction as one of our their successes. shattered lives in so many ways. In addition to Nation’s oldest Rotary clubs, founded only 13 Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues providing shelter to veterans who return from years after the original club—the Rotary Club join me in honoring Brianna Morrow, Melissa service and find themselves in need of this of Chicago—was established. To date, Rotary Kinser and Brittany Loveall and in wishing basic need, MAC–V also helps veterans strug- International includes approximately 31,000 them the best of luck at next week’s National gling with alcohol and drug addiction, provides clubs in more than 165 countries. History Day competition. important job training skills, and more.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.008 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1241 Their annual Stand Down event, at which Ms. Cates has been a passionate yet a their tireless efforts to foster dialogue and returning veterans have an opportunity to ‘‘quiet storm’’ in the fight against health dis- build bridges between different ethnic groups, meet with veterans organizations that provide parities with a particular focus on HIV/AIDS in as well as promote unity and a sense of com- the full range of services, has become one of the urban community. Ms. Cates has deter- mon purpose in our Nation. Madam Speaker, the most anticipated events in the veterans mined that advocacy and leadership will be I ask all of my colleagues to join me in recog- community. her path of alliance in this fight against HIV/ nizing the good works of NECO, and con- MAC–V not only provides for the physical AIDS in honor of those deserted hero’s family gratulating all of the 2008 recipients of the and mental needs of our veterans, but also members and friends who gave up their battle. Ellis Island Medals of Honor. I also ask unani- forms a welcoming circle of support, friendship Prior to her coming into the non-profit sec- mous consent that the names of this year’s re- and camaraderie that these brave men and tor, Ms. Cates worked as a telecommuni- cipients be placed into the CONGRESSIONAL women need most of all. Partnering with local cations manager with Verizon for over 20 RECORD following my statement. companies, organizations, and an army of vol- years. While transitioning from the corporate LTC Madelfia A. Abb; Noubar B. Afeyan, unteers, MAC–V has become an important sector she worked with the NYC DOHMH as PhD; Charles R. Ajalat, Esq.; Robert A. part of the Minnesota veterans community and a Community Associate AIDS Hotline Coun- Altenkirch; Hon. Goli Ameri; Roger E. Ashley; I thank them for their service to those who selor for more than 10 years. Ms. Cates holds Ahoud Avshalomov; Anthony P. Basile; Vasile have served us so well. a Bachelors Degree in Christian Education; Beluska; Daniel O. Bernstine; William Boesch; f and an Associates Degree from Pace Univer- John William Butler, Jr.; LT Jack J. Cambria; sity and an Associates Degree in Medical As- Hon. Ben Nighthorse Campbell; Dr. Brian A TRIBUTE TO MS. ELLEN GALE sistance from the College of Staten Island. Carty, FSC; Dr. Samir Narayan Chaudhuri; CATES Ms. Cates serves at the St. Stephens United Col. Dik Cheung, MD; Dr. Karlene ChinQuee; Church of God, as an Associate minister, Annette Choolfaian; Abla A. Creasey, PhD; HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS under Bishop M.D. Williams, Overseer, in Hon. Joseph Crowley; Edward Deeb; Arthur A. OF NEW YORK Brooklyn, New York. Dugoni, DDS, MSD; Christopher Erikson; IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Richard Farkas; Peter B. Fodor, MD, FACS; Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD; Robert L. Ganley; A TRIBUTE TO THE 2008 ELLIS IS- Hon. George A. Grasso; Hon. Joseph R. Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today LAND MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPI- Guccione; Noosheen A. Hashemi; Stephan S. in recognition of Ms. Ellen Gale Cates, an ex- ENTS Huh; Hon. Dora L. Irizarry; E. Neville Isdell; emplary citizen. Chief Anthony J. Izzo; Dr. Stuart W. Jamieson; Ms. Cates is the Assistant Program Director HON. DAN BURTON Trevor O. Jones; Patrick J. Kelly, MD, FACS; for the Wellness Center under the umbrella of OF INDIANA James W. Keyes; Laya Khadjavi; Darioush the Bedford Stuyvesant Family Health Center, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Khaledi; Parisa Khosravi; Daewon Khym; Inc. (BSFHC) in Brooklyn, New York. She has Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Peter J. Kight; Wilson Ko, MD; MG Anthony R. been a part of the Bedford Stuyvesant Family Kropp; Pamela H. Kwatra; William Landberg; since 1994. The Wellness Center provides Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I Fred Horst Langhammer; Anthony J. Lariccia; those who enter its doors with the tools, sup- rise today to congratulate the 2008 recipients Young Bin Lee, MD; BGen. Paul E. Lefebvre; port and encouragement to better manage of the coveted Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Robert H. Lessin; Demetrios G. Logothetis; their health and wellness. The primary focus Presented annually by the National Ethnic Co- Col. Eugene V. Lombardo; F. Joseph of the Wellness Center Team is to those who alition of Organizations (NECO)—a group rep- Loughrey; Xindi Lu; Terry J. Lundgren; Frank- are diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. resenting more than 250 organizations that lin R. Manios; Matthew J. McCoy; General Ms. Cates is also the coordinator of the span the spectrum of ethnic heritages, cul- Duncan J. McNabb; Maria Mehranian; Leo Faith Based Initiatives Project for the Bedford tures and religions—the Ellis Island Medal of Melamed; Lewis C. Merletti; Bernd (Ben) Stuyvesant Wellness Center. This project pro- Honor pays tribute to our Nation’s immigrant Messing; Benjamin Mevorach; Avid Modjtabai; vides assistance in coordinating informative heritage, as well as individual achievement. Jacqueline Murekatete; Mary Najarian; Vartkes programs on HIV/AIDS prevention, education, The medals are awarded to U.S. citizens from Najarian, MD, FACS; Jacques Nasser; Long counseling and testing for emerging churches various ethnic backgrounds who exemplify V. Nguyen, PhD; Franco Nuschese; CAPT. and communities of faith. This project focuses outstanding qualities in both their personal and Robert R. O’Brien, Jr.; Ronald J. Onesti; Maria on the responsibility of the communities of professional lives, while continuing to preserve Otero; Randy Y. Owen; Mehmet C. Oz, MD, faith and community based organizations col- the richness of their particular heritage. Since FACS; Laurice Y. Parkins; Richard P. Parrillo; laborating on affecting changes. Several min- NECO’s founding in 1986, more than 1,700 Mukesh (Mike) Patel; Bhupendra R. Patel, istries have been reached and have started American citizens have received Ellis Island MD; Gloria Perez; Hon. August B. Pust, PhD; their own programs through this initiative. Ms. Medals of Honor, including 6 American Presi- Robin D. Rapaport; Lt. Cdr. Tamsen A. Cates and the Wellness Center have been dents, several United States Senators, Con- Reese; Michael P. Ricatto; Daniel M. Rooney; able to continue this on-going project through gressmen, Nobel Laureates, outstanding ath- Thomas P. Rosandich, PhD; Harut M. their affiliation and support from the NYC Na- letes, artists, clergy, and military leaders. Sassounian; Dhiraj H. Shah, MD; Jerome tional Black Leadership Commission on AIDS, As we all know, citizens of the United States Shaw; Hon. Paull H. Shin; Sampat S. INC. can trace their ancestry to many nations. The Shivangi, MD; Gary A. Sinise; Theodore M. Ms. Cates was appointed by Mayor richness and diversity of American life makes Solso; Dr. Theodore J. Strange; Hon. Evelyn Bloomberg as a member of the NYC Health us unique among the Nations of the world and Lundberg Stratton; Haldun Tashman; Gerald and Human Service HIV/AIDS Council Com- is in many ways the key to why America is the N. Tirozzi, PhD; Stephen J. Trachtenberg; mittee, serving her 2-year term faithfully. Ms. most innovative country in the world. The Ellis Nadadur Vardhan; Victor S. Wahby, MD; Cates has served on several advisory boards, Island Medals of Honor not only celebrate se- Aldona Z. Wos, MD; Chun To (Tony) Yeung; the longest being the South Brooklyn Legal lect individuals but also the pluralism and de- Louis S. Zamperini. Services Inc. She is an Active member of both mocracy that enabled our ancestors to cele- f the NYC DOHMH Office of Minority Health brate their cultural identities while still embrac- Borough of Brooklyn Ecumenical Advisory ing the American way of life. This medal is not COLONEL JOHN D. DROLET Group Faith Based HIV Task Force and the about money, but about people who really Faith-based High Blood Pressure Task-force. seized the opportunities this great country has HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY Ms. Cates is a newly appointed member of to offer and who used those opportunities to OF INDIANA Women of Faith Advocating Change (WFAC), not only better their own lives but make a dif- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES chaired by Reverend Dr. Cheryl Anthony. ference in the lives of those around them. By WFAC is comprised of female clergy leaders, honoring these outstanding individuals, we Tuesday, June 17, 2008 community service providers and elected offi- honor all who share their origins and we ac- Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with cials representing Brooklyn neighborhoods. knowledge the contributions they and other great sincerity that I take this opportunity to The mission is to address the disparities that groups have made to America. I commend honor Colonel John D. Drolet. An Army Corps adversely impact African American women NECO and its Board of Directors headed by of Engineers officer since 1983, Colonel Drolet and girls and find viable faith solutions through my good friend, Nasser J. Kazeminy, for hon- has spent the past two years as the District education, information and advocacy. oring these truly outstanding individuals for Commander for the United States Army Corps

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.011 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 of Engineers, Chicago District. Since his ar- HONORING TAIWAN’S AMBAS- Madam Speaker, Ambassador Wu is an ex- rival as District Commander of the Chicago SADOR JAUSIEH ‘‘JOSEPH’’ WU ceptional diplomat and a dedicated statesman. District in 2006, Colonel Drolet’s faithful serv- He is also my friend. I deeply appreciate his ice to the First Congressional District of Indi- HON. THOMAS G. TANCREDO efforts to bring our two countries closer to- ana has touched the lives of many constitu- OF COLORADO gether, and I wish him all the best in his future ents. For his efforts, and on behalf of my con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES endeavors. stituents, I take this time to thank Colonel Tuesday, June 17, 2008 f Drolet, who will be relinquishing his command to Colonel Vincent V. Quarles on July 1, 2008, Mr. TANCREDO. Madam Speaker, I rise HONORING ROBERT C. DYNES ON at the Harold Washington Library Center in today to pay tribute to Taiwan’s Ambassador HIS RETIREMENT AS THE 18TH Chicago. to the United States, Jausieh ‘‘Joseph’’ Wu. PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY Colonel Drolet has devoted himself to im- Prior to entering politics, Ambassador Wu OF CALIFORNIA proving the quality of life for everyone, not was an academic, completing his Ph.D. in po- only in the United States, but throughout the litical science in 1989 at Ohio State University. HON. SUSAN A. DAVIS After serving as a teacher in the political world. Prior to joining the Chicago District, OF CALIFORNIA Colonel Drolet served in many capacities with- science department at Ohio State, he became IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in the United States Army. After being com- deputy director of the Institute of International missioned into the United States Army Corps Relations at Taiwan’s National Chengchi Uni- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 of Engineers in 1983, Colonel Drolet would versity. Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Speaker, eventually command engineers in Germany When the landmark election of President I rise today to recognize and honor Robert C. while assigned to the 237th Engineer Bat- Chen Shui-Bian in 2000 officially put an end to Dynes, who stepped down recently as the talion. He went on from there to serve as a one-party authoritarian rule in Taiwan, Ambas- 18th President of the University of California, Program Analyst and Budget Analyst for the sador Wu left academia to serve his country in one of the world’s premier research univer- United States Army Training and Doctrine government. sities. President Dynes has devoted his talents He was appointed Deputy Secretary Gen- Command, followed by a deployment to and vision to the University’s historic mission eral of the Presidential Office, and in 2004 he Kosovo in 1999, where he served as the The- of academics, research, and public service to was tapped by President Chen to head the ater Fund Manager for Infrastructure for the the state of California. Mainland Affairs Council in Taiwan, the gov- North Atlantic Treaty Organization. From 2000 A renowned scientist with a steadfast com- ernment body in charge of coordinating bilat- to 2002, Colonel Drolet commanded the mitment to the highest standards of intellectual eral state-to-state relations with the People’s Army’s 169th Engineer Battalion at Fort Leon- life—a hallmark of the University of California Republic of China. Wu performed admirably in ard Wood in Missouri. He has also served as since its inception—President Dynes has dem- this position despite unprecedented threats the Executive Officer for the 1st Engineer Bri- onstrated himself to be a skilled, creative, and and belligerence from China designed to un- gade at Fort Leonard Wood, and as the Chief resourceful leader. During his time at the Uni- of Staff for the United States Army Engineer dermine President Chen’s efforts in Taiwan to versity of California, he has tackled the vital School. Prior to taking over command of the expand and deepen its young democracy. issues facing higher education in the 21st cen- Chicago District, Colonel Drolet served as the Much to the dismay of the Chinese, however, tury with both tenacity and foresight. Chief of the Economic Division for the Deputy the people of Taiwan resisted this pressure— His service as President of the University of Chief of Staff—Strategic Effects, as part of the successfully amending their National Constitu- California has been the capstone of a remark- Multi-National Force—Iraq in Baghdad while tion and holding the nation’s first democratic able career in both private industry and higher deployed as a student from the United States referendum. education. Before he came to the University of Army War College. In 2007, Ambassador Wu was appointed to Colonel Drolet’s educational background is his current position as Taiwan’s Ambassador California, Dr. Dynes served for 22 years at equally impressive. As a member of the in Washington, a position nearly as important AT&T Bell Laboratories as department head of United States Army, Colonel Drolet has com- as the post of Foreign Minister. His invaluable semiconductor and material physics research pleted: Army War College, the Command and experience as Mainland Affairs Council chief and director of chemical physics research. General Staff College, the Professional Military gave him a keen understanding of the Chi- I came to know President Dynes in his role Comptroller School, and United States Army nese military threat to Taiwan and U.S. inter- as the Chancellor of the University of Cali- Engineer Basic and Advanced Courses. His ests in the region and around the world— fornia, San Diego from 1996 to 2003. Under civilian educational accomplishments include a knowledge that made him an ideal choice for Chancellor Dynes’ guidance, UCSD achieved Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Business this important post. His appointment as Am- national and international acclaim for its re- Management from Pennsylvania State Univer- bassador was also an historic event for Tai- search and educational excellence. sity and a Master’s Degree in Comptrollership wan, as Ambassador Wu became the first During his tenure at the University of Cali- from Syracuse University, and he has also ob- non-Kuomintang Ambassador from Taiwan to fornia, President Dynes has been a staunch tained a Master of Strategic Studies Degree the United States. and effective advocate for America’s security from the United States Army War College. During his time as Ambassador to the and competitiveness through advances in Known as a man of integrity and dedication, United States, Wu served with the same pro- science and technology. He has also dem- Colonel Drolet is a recipient of several military fessionalism and diligence as he did in his onstrated this commitment to encouraging in- awards, including: the Bronze Star, the De- prior positions. Ambassador Wu and his staff novation on the national level by serving in fense Meritorious Service Medal, the Army’s have worked tirelessly to improve Taiwan’s key positions in the National Academy of Meritorious Service Medal (with three oak leaf traditionally solid relationship with Congress Sciences, the Association of American Univer- clusters), the Joint Service Commendation and helped to strengthen the bilateral U.S.– sities, and the U.S. Council on Competitive- Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Taiwan relationship—a relationship based on ness. Kosovo Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign our shared values and our commitment to de- President Dynes also spearheaded the ef- Medal, the NATO Medal, and the Global War mocracy. fort by the University of California to overhaul on Terrorism Service Medal. Ambassador Wu has always gone to great the university’s management of our nation’s Madam Speaker, since joining the Army lengths to improve mutual understanding and nuclear security national laboratories. To ac- Corps of Engineers Chicago District, Colonel open lines of communication between the complish this goal, he paired the latest sci- Drolet has been a driving force behind many United States and Taiwan. During his tenure, entific evidence with innovative security strate- projects aimed at improving the quality of life the U.S. House of Representatives recip- gies to update the management and oversight in the First Congressional District. Throughout rocated that goodwill by moving to scrap anti- of the Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore his entire career, he has given his time and ef- quated and arbitrary, 1970’s-era State Depart- National Laboratories. forts selflessly to people throughout Northwest ment restrictions on communications between President Dynes has also been a vigorous Indiana, the country, and the world. His life high-ranking U.S. and Taiwanese officials. and visionary leader in the national movement truly exemplifies selfless service to others, and I sincerely hope that the Senate will follow to reform K-12 math and science education. on behalf of the Northwest Indiana community, suit so that in the not-too-distant future, the Among his most notable achievements is his I respectfully ask that you and my other distin- President of the United States can meet with collaboration with Governor Arnold guished colleagues join me in honoring Colo- the democratically elected President of Taiwan Schwarzenegger, the California State Univer- nel John D. Drolet for his outstanding contribu- the same way he meets with the unelected sity system, and California’s industry leaders tions to Indiana’s First Congressional District. dictator of the People’s Republic of China. in creating the Cal Teach Science and Math

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17JN8.015 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1243 Initiative. This endeavor has won high praise with its inclusion of after-school programs and in price and slightly diminished amount of from both federal policymakers and U.S. cor- programs for at-risk and criminally-involved drugs in circulation, which does almost nothing porate leaders. youth. Gang reeducation and training for to reduce demand. Enterprising drug dealers With globalization playing a greater role in CONADIC and other agency staff in best prac- will find a way to get their product into the our society, President Dynes recognized that tices and outreach are essential to reducing hands of users, and users struggling with ad- research universities must ‘‘facilitate the free demand. These programs are the harbingers diction will go to extreme ends to get their fix. flow of ideas between borders’’ to create the of our message and the most potent enforcers More money for guns and other tools of de- economy and quality of life of the future. To of our goals. struction will do nothing to ease the suffering strengthen the research capacity and the intel- We must no longer approach our war of those struggling with addiction or alleviate lectual development of American students, he against illegal narcotics from a reactive stand- the social problems that compel people to initiated international cooperation with institu- point, but must instead work closely with Mexi- produce and/or traffic drugs. For those rea- tions of higher education, as well as with busi- can and Central American authorities to com- sons, I cannot support this bill. ness and industry, in China, India, Canada, bat the spawning points of these tribulations. f and Mexico. Through a more nuanced set of policies, our President Dynes’ foresight and leadership is TRIBUTE TO REVEREND WILLIAM allies can begin to employ the same success- J. FOWL evident in the launch of the first new research ful strategies in their states that we have been university of the 21st century—University of using here at home. HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. California, Merced. Likewise, his hard work f was instrumental to the creation of the Gov- OF TENNESSEE ernor Gray Davis Institutes for Science and In- MERIDA INITIATIVE TO COMBAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES novation. Both of these efforts will help keep ILLICIT NARCOTICS AND REDUCE Tuesday, June 17, 2008 ORGANIZED CRIME AUTHORIZA- California at the cutting edge of research into Mr. DUNCAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today TION ACT OF 2008 bioengineering, nanotechnology, next genera- to honor a Tennessean who has comforted tion Internet and the many other elements of SPEECH OF and inspired thousands of people in East Ten- the ‘‘New Economy.’’ nessee. Therefore, I rise today in tribute to my friend HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Reverend William J. Fowler of Knoxville, Robert C. Dynes—for the invaluable service OF OHIO Tennessee has spent the last 42 years as a he has rendered to the country and to the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Minister of the Gospel. During that time, he state of California. I would like to thank him for Tuesday, June 10, 2008 was a role model for his congregation and an his leadership in the continuing search for new inspiration to other ministers. knowledge and commend him for his steadfast Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in As the head of Church Street United Meth- commitment to the students of California. opposition of H.R. 6028 and the program it odist Church since 1994, Rev. Fowler’s com- f would authorize, Merida Initiative. I would like passion and devotion helped grow the con- to thank Chairman BERMAN for his efforts to gregation into the thousands, and his leader- MERIDA INITIATIVE TO COMBAT ensure that the Merida Initiative received prop- ship has been invaluable to the United Meth- ILLICIT NARCOTICS AND REDUCE er Congressional input, as well as his efforts odist Church. ORGANIZED CRIME AUTHORIZA- to include human rights protections. I was dis- Rev. Fowler served as a member of the TION ACT OF 2008 heartened once again, last year, when Presi- Board of Trustees of Emory & Henry College, SPEECH OF dent Bush developed the Initiative without where he chaired the Religious Life Com- Congressional input or any regard for the well- mittee. He also served as a member of the HON. PATRICK J. KENNEDY documented human rights abuses of the Mexi- Holston Conference Board of Higher Edu- OF RHODE ISLAND can military and law enforcement. However, to cation and Ministry and the Holston Con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES address these problems successfully, it will be ference Ethics Committee, and he was a Tuesday, June 10, 2008 necessary to address the problem of drug pro- member of the Institutional Review Board of Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in duction in Mexico and South America, to ad- Bristol Regional Medical Center. In his final sermon, Rev. Fowler urged his support of the Merida Initiative to Combat Illicit dress the problem of drug consumption here congregation to heed God’s call: ‘‘God can Narcotics and Reduce Organized Crime Au- in the United States, and to stem drug traf- send different persons to us, and point us the thorization Act in order to demonstrate my ficking between the United States and our way that he wants us to go.’’ He told his fol- support for a more proactive approach to the neighbors to the south. The Merida Initiative lowers that his farewell does not mark the end problems of drug addiction and trafficking, does none of these. of his service, but the continuation of God’s weapons smuggling, and gang violence. Only Time and again, research has demonstrated Ministry. through a re-envisioning of drug policy from that illicit drug production in developing countries stems from pervasive rural poverty and I urge my colleagues to join me as I salute the ground up can our Nation make new Rev. William J. Fowler and wish him and his progress in combating illegal narcotics traf- lack of sustainable sources of income. H.R. 6028 falls woefully short of supporting pro- wife the best as they enter a well-deserved re- ficking. tirement. His calling as a reverend, friend, and I am pleased to see that the Democratic grams that address these issues. The vast majority of authorized funds will go toward leader will continue to inspire many. leadership and Judiciary Committee have Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to added revolutionary and evolutionary meas- equipment and training for military and law enforcement operations; funding for prevention call to the attention of my colleagues and ures to fight these crimes. No longer will this other readers of the RECORD the article from Congress fight only the effects of the drug and development programs will come from a much smaller authorization that competes with The Knoxville News Sentinel newspaper, trade. Instead, we will work alongside our which is reprinted below. Central American and Mexican allies to fight certain law enforcement initiatives and judicial reforms. [From the Knoxville News Sentinel, June 7, its causes as well. 2008] I strongly feel that with the passage of the Similarly, research teaches us that drug use FAMILIAR PAIR AT CHURCH STREET UMC TO in America stems from poverty, lack of access Merida Initiative to Combat Illicit Narcotics and RETIRE to basic needs, and other psychosocial Reduce Organized Crime Authorization Act, (By John Shearer) stressors. Again, H.R. 6028 will accomplish we can begin to work alongside our southern Just as the landmark Church Street allies to combat all levels of drug addiction nothing to reduce drug demand in the United United Methodist Church on Henley Street and trafficking, from preventing youth involve- States. H.R. 6028 authorizes no money for de- has changed little in appearance in recent ment in these crimes to punishing those who mand reduction. In fact, H.R. 6028 only re- years, so have its worship leaders. foster them. quires the President to submit a report on the However, the Rev. William Fowler, who For example, with a new emphasis on evi- measures taken to intensify efforts to address has served as senior minister for the last 14 dence preservation, increased polygraph ca- our Nation’s demand-related aspects of drug years, and Jim Rogers, who has been the or- trafficking. ganist and choirmaster since 1979, have an- pabilities, and custody reform, our allies can nounced plans to retire. streamline their policing efforts, allowing for a Moreover, interdiction efforts that address Fowler, whose tenure has been considered more focused campaign. exclusively the trafficking aspect of the drug long for a denomination with itinerant cler- However, new enforcement capabilities are problem have little effect. Most often, the con- gy, will preach his last sermon on June 8, not enough. The bill’s purpose is possible only sequence of such intervention is an increase while Rogers is leaving in late July.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17JN8.011 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 The Rev. Andy Ferguson from Broad where he continued to enjoy his good health, HONORING SOUTH CENTRAL CON- Street United Methodist in Cleveland, Tenn., reading many fine books, watching the birds NECTICUT CHAPTER 703 OF THE will be the new senior minister, while a and squirrels, and penning scores of editorial AMERICAN RED CROSS AS THEY search is under way for Rogers’ replacement. CELEBRATE THEIR 75TH ANNI- Fowler, the son of a Methodist minister, letters to several local papers. began his career after graduation from Duke John was survived by his children Barry, VERSARY Divinity School as an assistant pastor at a David Harding, Doreen Elizabeth, and Ellen church in Scotland beginning in 1968. He had Judith, his brothers Sam and Peter and sisters HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO come to Church Street from First United Rosalee and Margot. His son John Rodgers OF CONNECTICUT Methodist in Bristol and had no idea he IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES would stay so long. and siblings Clarence, Jane, David and Thom- ‘‘The first Sunday I was overwhelmed and as all preceded him in death. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 frightened,’’ he said. ‘‘Hearing the organ The success of his children and grand- Ms. DELAURO. Madam Speaker, there are open up on, ‘Lift High the Cross,’ I said, children always gave John great pride often few organizations whose name is synonymous ‘God, what did you get me into?’ I certainly saying that they ‘‘did well because I didn’t made some mistakes, but I gave all my effort with compassion, care, and community serv- to God and said I tried.’’ interfere.’’ A highly decorated combat veteran, ice. The American Red Cross is one of those Fowler, who is building a retirement lake- a talented and distinguished technician and a few. Today, in my hometown of New Haven, side home in Kingston with his wife, Vir- loving and caring father, John imparted his Connecticut, South Central Connecticut Chap- ginia, plans to stay away from a pulpit but values and virtues on his large and wonderful ter 703 celebrates its 75th anniversary. Quite near a pen and computer writing books. Rog- family, the several communities he served and a remarkable milestone for this organization ers had come to Church Street from a simi- the many precious lives he touched so gently. and our community. It is with the greatest lar position at Belle Meade United Methodist He will be truly missed by all so fortunate to pride that I rise today to pay tribute to this out- in Nashville. At Church Street, he has main- have been touched by his kindness. tained the church’s style of more traditional standing organization, its extraordinary mem- and formal music in an era when contem- bership, and the many invaluable contributions porary Christian music has become popular. f they have made to our community, our state, ‘‘People pass a lot different styles of worship and our Nation. to come to this church,’’ he said. A TRIBUTE TO VINCENT HOSANG Brought together by its first chairman, Wil- Rogers said the most satisfying part of his liam Farnam, the South Central Connecticut work has come not from the performances, Chapter of the American Red Cross was es- but in practice. HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS tablished in April 1906. The earliest records in- ‘‘The challenge is seeing what you can get out of a group of singers,’’ he said. ‘‘God OF NEW YORK dicate that this group of volunteers were gathering supplies for Serbia as well as provisions doesn’t deserve your second best.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f for charitable groups throughout Greater New Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Haven. Shortly after our entrance into World IN MEMORY OF JOHN RODGERS War I, classes in home nursing were started BARNES Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today as well as first aid programs, home services, in recognition of Vincent HoSang, CEO and and a corps charged with making surgical HON. DUNCAN HUNTER President of Caribbean Food Delights, a na- dressings. These were all volunteers—a re- tionally and internationally renowned whole- OF CALIFORNIA markable achievement when you consider the sale trade corporation that produces Carib- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES demands brought on by the war. In fact, bean delicacies. records from 1918 show that the Surgical Tuesday, June 17, 2008 HoSang was born in Springfield St. James, Dressings department worked in an area that Mr. HUNTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today Jamaica to Mr. and Mrs. Henry HoSang, and accommodated 1,200 workers and that in that to honor and pay tribute to the life and mem- was the eighth child of ten. As a child, same year, their fundraising drive included ory of a true American hero, John Rodger HoSang had aspirations of becoming a med- 4,000 women dressed in white, parading for Barnes. John was a long-time resident of ical doctor but halted his studies to help his the cause. Southern California and passed away at his uncle manage a family grocery store. How- One of the greatest contributions of the Indian Hills home on February 15, 2008. ever, it was this introduction to food services South Central Connecticut Chapter was the John attended schools in Mansfield and that placed HoSang on the road to founding a role of one of their most distinguished mem- briefly studied law at Boston University. It was lucrative corporation. bers in the development and implementation there in Mansfield that he met and married his In February of 1968, HoSang migrated to of the present day statewide Blood Program. lifelong companion, Alice T. Barnes of Brock- Bronx, NY where he saved enough money to The National Red Cross pioneered the Blood ton, Massachusetts, in 1940. The young cou- buy a fast food store known as ‘‘Kingsbridge Program in 1936 and during World War II the ple began their family at their home on a small Delight,’’ which sold fried chicken, shrimp, ribs, Army and Navy put out a call for donations. G. farm there in Mansfield. When World War II and French fries. In 1980, HoSang bought Gordon Copeland was the Chapter’s assistant began, John was working at Harvard Univer- ‘‘Sunrise Bakery’’ on Dyre Avenue; HoSang treasurer in 1942 and is credited with initiating sity and in 1943 he joined the U.S. Navy, later changed its name to ‘‘Royal Caribbean Bak- the Regional Blood Program in 1950. He was serving in the Pacific Theater with the Navy ery’’ and expanded the corporation into a chosen to represent the National Red Cross at Seabees. It was there on the island of Saipan, 20,000-sq ft. wholesale trade company in the Centenary Congress in Geneva and at Leyte, and later in the Philippines that he Mount Vernon, NY. served on Connecticut’s Advisory Board for distinguished himself in fierce battle earning many years. He would certainly be proud that several medals for valor including six Bronze In 1993, HoSang bought 73,000 sq. ft. of in Connecticut, where there are no commercial Battle Stars. land property in Tappan, New York where he blood banks, is one of only 3 states in the Na- He also participated in battles at Tinian, the founded Caribbean Food Delights, which pro- tion with an entirely free, entirely volunteer Lingayen Gulf, Luzon and Okinawa Island and duced various Jamaican cuisines. Since then, program. was on a ship anchored near Japan when the Caribbean Food Delights has expanded to be- In 1955, the Chapter had little chance to order to drop the first atomic bomb was come internationally recognized and received celebrate the purchase of the ‘‘Verdi House’’— issued. Following the war, John returned to his the Forbes award on February, 5, 2007. Along what would become their permanent home on Mansfield farm until 1950 when he and Alice with his success, HoSang finds time to give Whitney Avenue—before the most disastrous moved with their 5 children to Patrick Air back to the communities he’s belonged to. flood in Connecticut’s history came upon the Force Base, Florida. Vincent HoSang Family Foundation, founded State, paralyzing many communities. Always In 1959, John moved his family to Southern in 2003, and it contributed $150,000 worth of at the ready, the Chapter’s offices were open California but later joined the Chrysler Cor- scholarship money to business students at the 24 hours a day for 4 days and then for the fol- poration as a leader in its tool and die oper- University of the West Indies; this is just one lowing 2 weeks all personnel were on 24-hour ation. Following his retirement there he and example of the many ways HoSang attempts call. Providing for 30,000 Connecticut resi- Alice moved back to Southern California and to serve others. dents, the Chapter moved 7 seaworthy boats lived at the Galleano Winery in Mira Loma In closing, Vincent HoSang has dedicated into service, and 1,000 disaster workers faced until her death in 1997. The majority of his re- his life to helping others through philanthropic the challenge—gathering generators, short tirement was spent in Southern California giving and through food services. wave radio equipment, food, clothing, water,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.017 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1245 cots, blankets and medical equipment. Their EARMARK DECLARATION Engineers, Technicians; $250,000 Administra- quick action earned them the highest com- tive, Travel; $250,000 Technical Assistance plement from then Governor Abraham Ribicoff HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH from Research Institutes. when he described their endeavors as ‘‘a OF NEW JERSEY Though this program is specifically directed model of humanitarian relief.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES at the EMALS system controlled by NAVAIR, McGee Industries plans to include updates Today, the South Central Connecticut Chap- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 pertinent to NAVSEA. Corrosion issues and ter of the American Red Cross boasts a volun- Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, improved corrosion protection are a problem teer base of more than 3,000 and its programs I submit the following: throughout all military branches due to the age and services stretch far beyond the Blood Pro- Requesting Member: Rep. CHRISTOPHER H. of existing equipment and the harsh environ- gram and disaster relief efforts. They offer pre- SMITH. ments which they must operate in success- ventative programs such as swimming lessons Bill Number: H.R. 5658. fully. Thus, this program offers conditioned for children, first aid and CPR training, and Account: Research, Development, Test and maintenance improvements for the Navy, workshops that help parents identify dangers Evaluation, Navy Account. Army, Air Force, Marines and the Coast in the home. Our children are introduced to Legal Name of Requesting Entity: McGee Guard. citizenry and community service through their Industries Incorporated. f Youth Program and the Social Service Depart- Address of Requesting Entity: Nine ment offers counsel and assistance to vet- Crozerville Road, PO Box 2425, Aston, PA CAROLINE PRYCE WALKER CON- erans, seniors, and those most in need. As 19014. QUER CHILDHOOD CANCER ACT they celebrate their 75th anniversary, the Description of Request: The next generation OF 2008 South Central Chapter of the American Red aircraft carriers will be built using new tech- SPEECH OF Cross not only reflects on past accomplish- nology that replaces the traditional steam ments but looks to what they can achieve in catapults with an Electromagnetic Aircraft HON. DAVID DREIER the future. This extraordinary volunteer organi- Launch System (EMALS). The environment OF CALIFORNIA around aircraft carrier catapults is among the zation has become an integral part of our IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES most corrosive (i.e. seawater spray, heat, deck community—their innumerable contributions contaminants) with which the Navy must con- Wednesday, June 11, 2008 touching countless lives. It is my privilege to tend. No reliable corrosion or fracture data ex- Mr. DREIER. Madam Speaker, I would like rise today to extend my heartfelt congratula- ists for the new EMALS materials and configu- to thank my colleague Ms. PRYCE for intro- tions to the organization and its many mem- ration operating in a catapult-like environment. ducing H.R. 1553, the Caroline Pryce Walker bers, past and present, on this very special A T&E program initiated to develop design- Conquer Childhood Cancer Act of 2008. As a occasion. specific corrosion data under simulated cata- co-sponsor of the bill, I am proud to support pult conditions needs to be continued in order this measure. f to permit further design refinement, that will: We all know that cancer is a devastating (1) prevent premature component failures (2) disease that affects untold numbers of Ameri- TRIBUTE TO CHRIS RICE minimize costly fleet maintenance and (3) en- cans each year. While it is often easy to think hance operational readiness. of cancer as only affecting adults, the meas- Corrosion protection is an important element ure before us today is a reminder that cancer HON. DAVE CAMP in producing a durable, highly reliable EMALS is in fact the leading cause of disease-related OF MICHIGAN that will meet or exceed all Navy performance death in children in the United States, claiming goals. It can be expected that unforeseen cor- the lives some 2,300 children annually. It is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rosion issues will arise as full-scale develop- therefore fitting that this bill has been named Tuesday, June 17, 2008 ment, testing, and implementation of the in honor of Caroline Pryce Walker, the late EMALS proceeds. There is a window to gen- daughter of our colleague DEBORAH PRYCE, Mr. CAMP. Madam Speaker, today I rise to erate corrosion data and recommend changes who lost her battle against neuroblastoma in congratulate and pay tribute to Chris Rice through 2009. Corrosion fatigue and stress 1999 at nine years of age. upon receiving the title of Northwestern Michi- corrosion cracking are critical problems that if As many of us know, there are numerous gan Spelling Bee Champion, and for his val- addressed correctly, would improve perform- institutions throughout the country which are iant representation of Michigan’s fourth district ance, extend their life cycle and lower Oper- dedicated to providing better care and rein the Scripps National Spelling Bee Cham- ation and Maintenance costs for the carriers search for childhood cancer patients. I am par- pionship this spring. and their test facilities. Fracture mechanics ticularly proud to have several participating in- testing of various corrosion control alternatives stitutions located in my home state of Cali- Achieving previous high marks in the state in a realistically simulated environment is re- fornia, including Cure Search, which has a re- level competition, it is not only Chris’ exem- quired to resolve these concerns. search center located in the city of Arcadia, as plary study habits but his determination and Detailed Finance Plan—McGee Industries: well as the City of Hope, which is located in focus that led him to the national competition The total cost of this program has been valued the city of Duarte. These institutions work in Washington, DC, this year. Chris’ natural at $3,000,000. We will need to design and de- under an unincorporated, nationwide network ability to spell became evident as a 4-year-old velop load frames that will replicate the harsh known as the Children’s Oncology Group, child when he began reading the news ticker catapult trough environment. Test equipment which is comprised of over 200 childhood can- displayed across the bottom of the television. will need to be built that simulates the heat ex- cer treatment and research centers that col- After continuing to develop his love for spelling tremes, vibration effects, various deck con- laborate on clinical trials and translational re- at school, Chris enlisted the help of his dedi- taminate and their effects on corrosion. All of search of pediatric cancer. cated parents to begin practicing for spelling these parameters will need to be monitored on The work of Cure Search and the City of bee competitions. a periodic basis to assure that we are simu- Hope, along with hundreds of other institutions As his Representative, I am proud of the lating the EMALS operating conditions. At across the county, has helped to make signifi- great wealth of knowledge displayed by Chris present we plan to evaluate more than 20 dif- cant advances in the treatment of childhood while competing against 288 students from ferent chemicals and coatings. cancer. When the National Cancer Institute across the United States during the spelling The research program planned will follow founded the first pediatric cooperatives in bee. Chris’ focus on spelling and reading the direction of the testing results and the di- 1955, the childhood cancer survival rate was makes him a true example and role model to rection of appropriate NAVAIR personnel. We a mere ten percent. Thanks to the collabo- rative work being performed through the Chil- his fellow students across Michigan. estimate that we will need man hours for chemists, engineers, technicians and labora- dren’s Oncology Group, that number has risen On behalf of the 4th Congressional District tory services as well as clerical and adminis- to seventy five percent today, and it is be- of Michigan, I would like to extend my con- trative support. cause of these joint efforts that new trends gratulations and thanks to Chris Rice for his Breakdown of the Requested Funding: and therapies in childhood cancer are discov- educational achievements and leadership with- $1,250,000 for Design and Test Equipment; ered each year. in Northwestern Michigan. I wish him the best $500,000 for Laboratory Supplies and Equip- However, in recent years, treating cancer in all of his future endeavors. ment; $750,000 for Man Hours for Chemists, has become just one aspect of addressing the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.019 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 health needs of children afflicted with the dis- HONORING DR. DONALD F. munity a leader in educational, professional ease. The Children’s Oncology Group has AVERILL FOR 47 YEARS OF and economic advancement. The valuable been at the forefront of raising awareness ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUCATION contributions he has made throughout his ca- about the challenges that exist in the post- reer will be remembered for years to come. treatment, cancer survivorship period. For ex- HON. JERRY LEWIS f ample, few may know that two-thirds of the OF CALIFORNIA NATIONAL D-DAY REMEMBRANCE children who survive cancer will ultimately ex- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES perience at least one, if not more, long-term DAY Tuesday, June 17, 2008 health issue as a result of their treatment. SPEECH OF These so called ‘‘late-effects’’ pose substantial Mr. LEWIS of California. Madam Speaker, I health challenges for those who are fortunate rise today to pay tribute to a true leader in my HON. STEVE BUYER enough to survive childhood cancer as well as community, Dr. Donald F. Averill, who is retir- OF INDIANA for the doctors who treat them. ing after 47 years of dedication to education IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and economic development throughout the In- To that end, the Children’s Oncology Group Tuesday, June 10, 2008 has taken an important lead in focusing great- land Empire. er attention on long-term complications that With 14 years of teaching at the secondary Mr. BUYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support arise from radiation and other therapies and level, and 33 years of community college ex- of H.R. 1235, a measure expressing support has worked to study the long-term care needs perience, Dr. Averill was chosen to be Chan- for the designation of National D-Day Remem- of childhood cancer survivors. In fact, one of cellor of a very important education provider in brance Day, and recognizing the spirit, cour- my constituents, Dr. Smita Bhatia, a resident my home town of San Bernardino, California, age, and sacrifice of the men and women who of Arcadia who works at the City of Hope, a position he held for 8 years. The San fought and won World War II. served as the Chair of the Late Effects Com- Bernardino Community College District is com- On June 6, 1944, the largest sea-borne in- mittee at the Children’s Oncology Group for prised of two colleges, San Bernardino Valley vasion in military history led to the defeat of eight years and was instrumental in estab- College and Crafton Hills College, the Profes- Hitler and the Nazis’ stranglehold on Europe. lishing national guidelines for survivorship sional Development Center, and its own public Nearly 7,000 ships and landing craft, loaded care. Today, these guidelines are being used television and radio station, KVCR. with American, British and other troops, to help equip survivors with the tools they Beginning with 140 students at two high crossed the English Channel to destroy tyr- need to identify the side-effects of specific school campuses in 1926, San Bernardino anny and restore freedom to Europe. Nearly cancer treatments and remain healthy as they Valley Community College has grown into a 3,500 lives were lost in this immense display mature into adulthood. district with two modern campuses and thou- of courage and sacrifice. sands of students. It has served more than The heroism displayed by the Allied forces The measure before us today will help ad- 700,000 students over the past 80 years. on D-day should never be forgotten and we vance our understanding of childhood cancer Our district is blessed with many fine edu- should always honor the men and women who by addressing the need to obtain more accu- cational professionals who are passionate saved democracy from the shadow of oppres- rate data to study trends and evaluate the about their work and care deeply about the sion. That is why we should approve H.R. most effective courses of treatment. While ap- lives of their students. Dr. Averill took his inter- 1235 calling on Congress to support the des- proximately 12,500 children in the United est one step further by working with the coun- ignation of a National D-Day Remembrance States are diagnosed with cancer each year, ty and the K–12 students to increase the col- Day. researchers have experienced great difficulties lege-going rate in the region by 45 percent, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to recog- in pinpointing the exact causes of childhood with the majority of that enrollment going to nize and honor the veterans who served on D- cancer. Because of its random occurrence in the community colleges. day, and join me in supporting this bill thank- children across the United States, it has been Dr. Averill’s forward-thinking skills are an es- ing them for their courage and sacrifice. nearly impossible to acquire statistically signifi- sential part of what has made San Bernardino f cant data on the causes of and effective treat- a model community for educational developments for childhood cancer. The work of Cure ment. In particular, he is credited with devel- CONGRATULATIONS PROFESSOR Search and the City of Hope will be amplified oping and implementing extensive workforce JEFFERSON DAVIS FUTCH, III by the underlying bill, which authorizes the development programs that incorporate edu- creation of a national childhood cancer re- cation and economic development in Cali- HON. JOE WILSON search database to provide better statistics on fornia. He was one of the founders of the Eco- OF SOUTH CAROLINA the occurrence of childhood cancer as well as nomic Development Network of the California IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the most effective treatments for patients. Community Colleges, or EdNet, an innovative Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Building this database is critical to ensuring technological tool that utilizes existing commu- that those who are responsible for treating nity college infrastructure to promote the Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam childhood cancer have the very best data State’s economic expansion. He also was in- Speaker, for 46 years, Dr. Jefferson Davis available to them. strumental in completing extensive long-range Futch, III has been a member of the faculty at Additionally, the bill authorizes $30 million to facilities plans for San Bernardino Valley Col- Washington and Lee University, my alma enhance and expand biomedical research pro- lege and Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa. Dr. mater, in Lexington, Virginia. At the end of this grams that allow scientists to study how tu- Averill’s hard work and dedication to ensuring school year, Professor Futch retired from his mors form and spread as well as the impact the future success of our young people is truly post. While he may no longer be teaching, his that genetics can have on the likelihood of appreciated. legacy of scholarship and dedication to the cancer and relapses of the disease. The bill My constituents in the 41st District are par- W&L community will never be forgotten. also will provide better educational and infor- ticularly grateful for Dr. Averill’s role in adding Born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1932, J.D, mational services for childhood cancer pa- a simulated fire fighting unit for training in air- Futch earned an Associate Bachelors degree tients and their families to ensure that they craft fire fighting. Our region is always at risk in humanities and a Ph.D. in history from have access to appropriate clinical treatments from devastating wildfires and it is crucial that Johns Hopkins University. He spent three and support services. our firefighters have the training tools they years in the United States Army from 1957 to H.R. 1553, Caroline Pryce Walker Conquer need to protect our communities. 1960, and joined the Washington and Lee fac- Childhood Cancer Act, affirms a long-term Beyond his achievements in the educational ulty in September of 1962. commitment to providing a cure to childhood field, Dr. Averill is a community leader. He Throughout his life and career, Dr. Futch cancer and also will ensure that doctors and serves on the executive committee of the Eco- has been honored as a member in Phi Beta patients alike are provided with the best infor- nomic Development Network of California, and Kappa and as a recipient of the Woodrow Wil- mation to make important medical decisions in is a board member of the Inland Empire Eco- son Fellowship from 1955–1956. He contrib- the near-term. As we seek to address the nomic Partnership, the Workforce Investment uted to articles in the widely respected maga- needs of childhood cancer patients, survivors Board, the San Bernardino Area Chamber of zine National Review from 1958–1976. And, in and their families, I urge my colleagues to rec- Commerce and Arrowhead United Way. 1987, he was recipient of the W.W. Pusey ognize the importance of the research that will Madam Speaker, please join me in con- Award which recognizes outstanding and dedi- be authorized by H.R. 1553 and support this gratulating Dr. Averill for his many accomplish- cated service to Washington and Lee Univer- bill. ments and thanking him for making our com- sity.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.023 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1247 Dr. Futch specializes in the history of the Ms. ESHOO. Madam Chairman, I rise today strong in Iowa. In preparation for the floods, papacy, Renaissance and modem European in support of the National Aeronautics and there were countless instances where Iowans history. Space Administration Authorization Act (H.R. banded together, from all walks of life, from all From the many lives he has touched to the 6063). ages, to work together to do whatever was University he helped grow and strengthen This bill authorizes $20.2 billion for NASA necessary to save the communities we all love throughout his tenure at Washington and Lee, for the 2009 fiscal year which represents a 14 to call home. Dr. Futch is an icon in the Washington and percent increase over the President’s request And this is what Iowans will continue to do. Lee community and someone who will be of $17.6 billion. The President’s vision of new We will continue to work together to rebuild missed by students, faculty, and friends alike. manned space missions without requesting our communities and heal the wounds the No professor had a more profound impact on adequate funding for the agency has resulted flood waters opened. We will continue to work my love of history and interest in public serv- in cuts to other NASA programs, including im- together and fight on because our families, our ice than Dr. Futch. I will always be deeply portant earth sciences research. The bill we’re communities, and our State are worth nothing grateful for his guidance in my life. I know I considering today addresses the needs of less. speak on behalf of the alumni who have had NASA’s entire mission and all four of its direc- But Madam Speaker, Iowa will need gen- erous Federal assistance to get back on its the honor to know and learn from Dr. Futch torates which encompass space exploration, feet. Iowans will do whatever they can, but the when I say that we wish him many years of aeronautics, and other research and tech- fact is the flooding that has hit Iowa has never happy retirement. nology development programs. NASA’s Ames Research Center is a key been witnessed, ever, and the damage and f component of the vibrant research and innova- challenges presenting themselves are simply A TRIBUTE TO REV. KIMBERLY tion community in my Congressional District. too much for the State and local governments COUNCIL-HAIGLER With special expertise in supercomputing, net- to handle by themselves. Iowans will do their working and intelligent systems, Ames devel- part, but we must do ours. Madam Speaker, Iowans continue to display HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS ops technologies critical to NASA’s missions. Ames and the other NASA research facilities what is best in the American spirit as we con- OF NEW YORK around the country rely on the funding within tinue to face the challenges that are presented IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Science Mission Directorate (SMD). The to us today, and we will persevere, for as Iowa goes, so goes the Nation. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 House of Representatives has consistently ex- f Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today ceeded the President’s budget request and I’m in recognition of Reverend Kimberly Council- pleased to see this pattern continue today. We IN REMEMBRANCE OF RICHARD Haigler of Brooklyn, New York, for the have exceeded the Administration’s request ASHBROOK achievements of one who provide selfless for all four of the divisions within SMD to en- contributions to their community. sure that NASA scientists at Ames and across HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH The daughter of Mr. Benjamin and Rev. the country have the resources they need. OF OHIO While this is a good bill, I hope future reau- Linda Council, she is the oldest of five and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES thorizations will revisit the restrictions imposed mother of two. In 2003 she gained her license Tuesday, June 17, 2008 and was ordained at the Berean Baptist on NASA’s ability to engage in Enhanced Use Lease (EUL) agreements. Just last week Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Arlee today in honor and remembrance of Richard Griffin Jr. She Received a Bachelor of Arts Ames Research Center announced it had signed an EUL with Google in a strategic part- Louis ‘‘Dick’’ Ashbrook—devoted family man, from North Carolina Central University and a accomplished scientist, peace and social jus- Master of Science in Library Science from nership to develop new ideas, technologies, and applications. I hope we can expand this tice activist and humanitarian. Pratt Institute. Born in Philadelphia, Dick graduated from Rev. Council is active in her church and program in the future to provide further opportunities for NASA to develop these fruitful rela- Lehigh University with a degree in metallur- professional community overseeing the Young gical engineering. He earned his master’s de- Adult Ministry and Youth Ministry. At the same tionships which leverage private sector expertise to use our tax dollars effectively and effi- gree from Carnegie Institute of Technology time she serves as the superintendent of the and a Ph.D. from Case Institute of Tech- Young Adult Sunday School Department, an ciently. NASA is a critical component of our nation’s nology. In 1961, Dick and his wife, Mary, instructor at the Berean Bible Institute and sits research and development infrastructure and I moved to Brook Park where he worked for on the Board of Directors of Berean’s Chris- thank the Committee on Science and Tech- NASA’s Lewis Research Center doing re- tian Education Ministry. nology for their hard work on this bill. I urge search on high temperature alloys and ceram- Currently she works as a Reference Librar- my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ics. He was also a consultant with Brush ian at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. She is a join me in supporting this legislation. Wellman. member of the Law Library Association of He was active in civil rights and fair housing Greater New York where she has served on f through the Berea Area Council on Human the Board of LLAGNY’s Board of Directors, IMPACT OF FLOODING IN IOWA Relations. He participated in countless peace and co-chair of LLAGNY’s Student Relations vigils as a member of the Peace Community Committee. She is also a member of the HON. LEONARD L. BOSWELL Church. He was an early member and long- American Association of Law Librarians and OF IOWA time manager and roadie of the Cleveland Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority incorporated. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES area contra dance band, Mud in Yer Eye, in which he played concertina, bones and other Her service to the community is outstanding Tuesday, June 17, 2008 and deserves grave recognition. rhythm instruments. He volunteered in the Mr. BOSWELL. Madam Speaker, Iowa, the book-mending lab at Oberlin College and was f State I am proud to represent in this great an active member of SPINACH (Senior People NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND body, is facing one of the worst natural disas- Interested in Nutrition and Community Health). SPACE ADMINISTRATION AU- ters it has ever witnessed. Record flooding He also volunteered at the Second Harvest THORIZATION ACT OF 2008 has affected hundreds of communities, dev- warehouse. astated hundreds of businesses, displaced Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join SPEECH OF thousands of our fellow citizens, and has done me in honor, gratitude and remembrance of billions of dollars in damage. Dick Ashbrook—an exceptional man, scientist HON. ANNA G. ESHOO The waters are beginning to recede in some and leader whose life reflected accomplish- OF CALIFORNIA parts of the State, but we are not out of the ment, caring and joy. I offer my deepest con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES troubles yet. The level of devastation has not dolences to his devoted wife, Mary, beloved Thursday, June 12, 2008 yet been fully realized, and probably won’t for children, Anne (Tom) Fitzpatrick, Connie (Mar- some weeks. I saw firsthand the damage done tha Landowne), Peggy (Darryl Francois), Janet The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union had under as I toured my district this weekend, and (John Dunn), Ellen (Ann Adams), Nico Ashe consideration the bill (H.R. 6063) to authorize words cannot begin to illustrate just how dam- (Andrew Poltzer) and eight grandchildren. Dick the programs of the National Aeronautics aging the floodwaters have been. Ashbrook’s legacy, both personally and pro- and Space Administration, and for other pur- I rise today to salute my fellow Iowans, and fessionally, will be remembered by family, poses: salute the sense of community that is so friends and colleagues.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.026 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 PERSONAL EXPLANATION On rollcall 406, H. Res. 1257, I was not approach as indicated by the attached letter in present. If I had been there, I would have support of diplomatic dialogue with Iran from HON. RON KIND voted ‘‘yes.’’ the Friends Committee On National Legisla- OF WISCONSIN On rollcall 407, H. Res 1265, I was not tion, FCNL. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES present. If I had been there, I would have Foreign policy experts also support direct negotiations without preconditions. In fact, a Tuesday, June 17, 2008 voted ‘‘yes.’’ On rollcall 408, H. Res. 1265, I was not group of 5 bipartisan former U.S. secretaries Mr. KIND. Madam Speaker, I was unable to present. If I had been there, I would have of state have called for the U.S. to open talks have my vote recorded on the House floor on voted ‘‘yes.’’ with Iran to find common ground and resolve Thursday, June 12, 2008, having returned to On rollcall 409, H.R. 1553, I was not differences on Iraq, Iran’s nuclear program, my district to assist my constituents with the present. If I had been there, I would have and other issues. severe flooding that recently struck Wisconsin. voted ‘‘yes.’’ They understand that the current policy of Had I been present, I would have voted in On rollcall 410, H.R. 5749, I was not avoiding serious negotiations with Iran until favor of H. Res. 1257 (Roll No. 405 and No. present. If I had been there, I would have Iran suspends uranium enrichment has not 406), H. Res. 1265 (Roll No. 407 and No. voted ‘‘yes.’’ worked. They understand that an offer of bilat- 408), H.R. 1553 (Roll No. 409), H.R. 5749 On rollcall 411, H.R. 5749, I was not eral negotiations with a precondition is essen- (Roll No. 410 and No. 412), and S. 2146 (Roll present. If I had been there, I would have tially no offer at all, when the precondition is No. 413). I would have voted against the mo- voted ‘‘no.’’ the object of the negotiations. Not only is talking to Iran the most sensible tion to recommit H.R. 5749 (Roll No. 411). On rollcall 412, H.R. 5749, I was not f approach—it is far superior to preemptive mili- present. If I had been there, I would have tary action against Iran. We know from the PERSONAL EXPLANATION voted ‘‘yes.’’ misadventure in Iraq that the humanitarian, On rollcall 413, S. 2146, I was not present. economic, political, and military consequences HON. RON KIND If I had been there, I would have voted ‘‘yes.’’ of military conflict with Iran would be stag- OF WISCONSIN f gering. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IT’S TIME TO TALK TO IRAN Simply put: this Nation cannot afford these costs—especially on top of the tremendous Tuesday, June 17, 2008 costs of the debacle in Iraq. Mr. KIND. Madam Speaker, I was unable to HON. BARBARA LEE Finally, Madam Speaker, although many have my vote recorded on the House floor on OF CALIFORNIA persons were responsible for planning this ex- Wednesday, June 11, 2008, having returned IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES traordinary exercise in civilian diplomacy, I to my district to assist my constituents with the Tuesday, June 17, 2008 would like to single out for special recognition severe flooding that recently struck Wisconsin. Carah Ong of the Center for Arms Control and Had I been present, I would have voted in Ms. LEE. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday of Nonproliferation; Bill Goold, Executive Director favor of H. Res. 977 (Roll No. 404). this week I had the wonderful experience of of the Congressional Progressive Caucus; and f participating in a very important and worth- Nicole King of my personal staff. They did a while exercise in civilian diplomacy. wonderful job organizing this event. PERSONAL EXPLANATION Coordinated by the Campaign for a New It is time to talk to Iran. As the ‘‘Time to Talk American Policy in Iran, Tuesday’s event, to Iran’’ event this past Tuesday, all it takes to HON. BRUCE L. BRALEY called ‘‘Time to Talk with Iran,’’ brought to- begin is one ‘‘Hello.’’ OF IOWA gether a bipartisan gathering of Members of FRIENDS COMMITTEE ON IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Congress, citizen groups, and religious organi- NATIONAL LEGISLATION, zations calling for bilateral negotiations without Washington, DC, June 3, 2008. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 DEAR MEMBER OF CONGRESS, We write to preconditions between the United States and call your attention to the recent call from Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. Madam Speaker, un- Iran to dissuade Iran from seeking to acquire fortunately, I was unable to vote on Wednes- five former U.S. secretaries of state for the nuclear weapons. U.S. to open talks with Iran. We urge you to day, June 11 and Thursday, June 12 due to Our message was simple: It is time to talk speak out in favor of such talks and to sup- massive flooding throughout Iowa’s 1st Con- to Iran. port legislation to encourage them. gressional District. Although I realize how im- In fact it is past time we talk to Iran. Colin Powell, Henry Kissinger, James portant it is to cast votes in Washington, the Baker III, Madeleine Albright, and Warren Because we hear the same people who Christopher all urged the U.S. to open a dia- well-being of my constituents comes first, and supported a disastrous war of choice in Iraq I need to be in the District to assist in any way logue with Iran to find common ground and now steadily beating the drum for war with resolve differences on Iraq, Iran’s nuclear I can. Iran. program, and other issues. On rollcall 397, H.R. 6003, I was not We have been down this road before and The administration’s policy of avoiding se- present. If I had been there, I would have Americans have learned a simple truth from rious negotiations with Iran until Iran sus- voted ‘‘no.’’ pends uranium enrichment has not worked. five hard and bitter years in Iraq: On rollcall 398, H.R. 6003, I was not We agree with those in Congress and else- No unjust war ever produced a just and last- present. If I had been there, I would have where who have argued that to offer bilat- ing peace. voted ‘‘yes.’’ eral negotiations with a precondition is no On rollcall 399, H.R. 6003, I was not It has not worked in Iraq. It will not work in offer at all, especially when the precondition Iran. is the object of the negotiations. This posi- present. If I had been there, I would have tion guarantees that the negotiations with voted ‘‘no.’’ We do not need another rush to unwar- ranted, unnecessary, and misguided military the best chance of settling U.S.-Iran dif- On rollcall 400, H.R. 6003, I was not ferences will not begin. present. If I had been there, I would have action. We need instead to launch a diplo- Former national security advisor Zbigniew voted ‘‘yes.’’ matic surge for peace and reconciliation. Brzezinski and the late former National Se- On rollcall 401, H. Res. 1258, I was not That is why earlier this year I introduced curity Agency director William Odom wrote present. If I had been there, I would have H.R. 5056, the Iran Diplomatic Accountability recently that ‘‘Current U.S. policy toward the regime in Tehran will almost certainly voted ‘‘yes.’’ Act of 2008, which directs the President to appoint a high-level envoy empowered to seek to result in an Iran with nuclear weapons.’’ On rollcall 402, H. Res. 1235, I was not They and many other analysts have con- present. If I had been there, I would have conduct direct, unconditional, bilateral negotia- cluded) that U.S. military action against voted ‘‘yes.’’ tions with Iran for the purpose of easing ten- Iran would only delay an Iranian nuclear On rollcall 403, H.R. 5749, I was not sions and normalizing relations between the weapons program and insure their deter- present. If I had been there, I would have United States and Iran. mination to acquire nuclear weapons. Ex- voted ‘‘yes.’’ My bill takes a common sense approach treme elements would be strengthened and On rollcall 404, H. Res. 977, I was not and it is one the American people understand. the cause of reform in Iran would be set back Six out of 10 Americans do want their presi- for years to come. Military action would also present. If I had been there, I would have increase animosity toward the U.S. in the voted ‘‘yes.’’ dent to talk to Iran’s president, according to Middle East and elsewhere. It would prompt On rollcall 405, H. Res. 1257, I was not the most-recent Gallup poll. a big spike in the price of oil and would like- present. If I had been there, I would have Many leading organizations active in the nu- ly lead to retaliatory actions against the voted ‘‘yes.’’ clear nonproliferation movement support this U.S. in Iraq and Afghanistan.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.029 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1249 Current U.S. policy not to seriously nego- ‘‘engineered intelligence’’, that is, the ongoing It is with great honor that I recognize John tiate with Iran has failed. The absence of efforts of computer engineers and bio-engi- Salogub for his commitment to Brooklyn and talks and the addition of ever more stringent neers to create intelligence beyond that of a service to his country. economic sanctions will resolve nothing. Military action would be disastrous. The human being. The Congress and the Adminis- f only sensible option that serves the interests tration need to consider and address all aspects of these issues as we promote and as- HONORING THE LIFE AND WORK of the U.S. and the nations of the Middle OF MAYOR BOB BLANCHARD East is to explore the possibility of finding sist the development of nanotechnology. To common ground with Iran through direct ne- that end, I am pleased that this bill provides gotiations. Common ground is not hard to for a triennial review by the National Research HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY imagine. For starters, both countries have Council of the adequacy of the National OF CALIFORNIA an interest in a stable Iraq, a Taliban-free Nanotechnology Program’s activities address- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Afghanistan, and increased oil production capacity in Iran. The U.S. need not wait to ing ethical, legal, environmental, and other ap- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 develop leverage. propriate societal concerns, including human Please add your voice to those of the five health concerns. Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, it is with former U.S. secretaries of state and other I hope that these concerns will receive even great sadness that I rise today to recognize senior figures who are urging the U.S. to further attention in the legislative process as the passing of a valued colleague, Santa Rosa open talks with Iran. And please look for leg- this bill goes to Senate and as any Senate re- Mayor Bob Blanchard. Mayor Blanchard died islative opportunities to put Congress on ports or conference reports on a nanotech- June 14, 2008, at the age of 70, leaving a record in support of such talks. nology bill are prepared. hole in the heart of his community and his Thank you for your consideration. f family. He will be long remembered for his Sincerely, good humor, enthusiasm, and commitment to JIM FINE, A TRIBUTE TO CLARENCE E. Legislative Secretary for Foreign Policy. the city he loved. KOONACE Twenty-seven years ago, Bob and his family f moved to Santa Rosa from southern Cali- HONORING THE RETIREMENT OF HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS fornia. He and his wife Angelyn raised their JO-ANN LOFTUS OF NEW YORK two children, daughter Cameron and son Matt, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in the city, where they appreciated the quality HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY Tuesday, June 17, 2008 of life it offers to families. It was his dedication OF NEW YORK to ensuring this quality for future generations Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that led Bob into public service. in recognition of Clarence E. Koonace, who After serving a stint in the Army, Bob had Tuesday, June 17, 2008 helps serve his community through developing worked as a deputy sheriff in Riverside County Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I rise innovative medical technology. Before his ca- as well as teaching at Riverside Community today to pay tribute to a wonderful woman; Jo- reer as an engineer, Koonace served his College. In 1978, he earned a doctorate in Ann Loftus is retiring from the New York Stock country as a member of the United States Air government, and his career shifted toward ad- Exchange after being a dedicated employee Force. ministration and teaching in the field of crimi- for the past 34 years. Mr. Koonace obtained a degree in business nal justice and political science. This direction Jo-Ann has proven herself to be a dedicated administration from Farleigh Dickerson’s Ed- led to his move to Santa Rosa to serve as the and relentlessly hardworking employee. Start- ward Williams School and an Electronic Engi- director of Santa Rosa Junior College, SRJC, ing out as a secretary, Jo-Ann has worked her neering Degree from DeVry Institute. On July Police and Fire Academy. He eventually be- way up to become manager of the Govern- 1, 1986, Clarence founded the Mordenrn Rad came a dean and a political science instructor ment Relations department. In her many years Ltd. Koonace’s organization, provides sales at SRJC where he enjoyed working with of employment there, Jo-Ann has touched and service to medical imaging cliental includ- young people. Although he had retired as a many lives at the NYSE. ing NYC Fire Department’s medical Division member of the regular faculty, Bob had stayed Jo-Ann is also the mother of two children and NYC Office of the Chief Medical Exam- involved as an adjunct instructor. and would be described by them as sup- iner, private clinics, private practices, and con- Bob was also a founder of Tomorrow’s portive, loving and full of life and integrity. Jo- sultation to vendors of X-ray equipment. Leader Today, a program that prepares high Ann raised her children as a single mother, In addition to his career in engineering, school juniors to be community leaders. He is working full time and putting both through col- Koonace is also an ordained deacon and remembered for his warmth and humor in in- lege on her own. She has also never missed member of Liberty Baptist Church of Brooklyn, spiring the teenagers to be their best. one dance recital, baseball game, after-school New York. He is the husband to Evon In 1994, Bob was appointed to the Santa event or award ceremony that her children Koonace and the father to two children, Crys- Rosa Planning Commission, serving until his have been involved in. tal Bonita and Trevor Lamont. election to the City Council in 2002. He was Jo-Ann is also the founder of His Final It is with great honor that I recognize re-elected in 2006 and then selected by his Touch Prayer group and has been the faithful Koonace today for his service in improving council colleagues to serve as mayor. leader for over a decade. Jo-Ann is also a health care technology and improving the lives Bob and I have not always agreed on very involved member of her local Catholic of others. issues, but his ability to work with all sides to parish and community. f address concerns facing the city of Santa She will be very missed by her colleagues A TRIBUTE TO JOHN SALOGUB Rosa made him a leader for all and a spokes- and friends at the New York Stock Exchange man on important issues such as transpor- but they are very confident that she will be just HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS tation, outreach to diverse communities, public as successful at retirement as she has been safety, and boosting the city whenever and OF NEW YORK in her years of work and service there. wherever he could. He always endeavored to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f forge an appropriate compromise with the Tuesday, June 17, 2008 THE NATIONAL NANOTECHNOLOGY same humor and good spirit that characterized INITIATIVE AMENDMENTS ACT Mr. TOWNS. Madam Speaker, I rise today all his relationships. OF 2008 in recognition of John Salogub, an active cit- ‘‘Work’’ is the operative word for Bob. De- izen of the Carnarsie neighborhood of Brook- spite his off-and-on battle with cancer, he HON. BRAD SHERMAN lyn and president of the 69th Precinct Commu- maintained a heavy work load, representing the community to the best of his ability and OF CALIFORNIA nity Council. In addition to his work with the 69th Precinct never losing his enthusiasm. During this time IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Community, John is an active member of the he traveled to Santa Rosa Sister Cities in Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 59 and Amer- Korea and Mexico and was instrumental in Mr. SHERMAN. Madam Speaker, on June ican Legion Post 573; indeed, John is a mili- helping the city earn a designation as All 5, 2008, I voted for the nanotechnology bill tary veteran and served his country from Octo- America City. (H.R. 5940). ber 1967 through May 1971. In addition to Angelyn, his wife of 41 years, I have often expressed my concerns regard- John attended New York City Public and his two children, Bob is survived by two ing the social, legal and ethical implications of Schools PS114 and IS211. grandchildren.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.034 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 Madam Speaker, I know Bob’s colleagues teach our students. Through his work as a the Assistant Director by Director Donald would agree that he respected all people on Curriculum Resource Consultant in the Mon- Oetman in 2002. all sides of an issue and dedicated himself to roe County Intermediate School District, In addition to his work with the UAW, Mike finding solutions. Whether serving on regional Chuck Estep certainly meets this criterion, and is active in the United Way of Ottawa County commissions, presiding over council meetings, is worthy of such high praise. and serves on the Michigan Association of or representing the city at civic events and in We all know what an important role field United Way Executive Board. He is a Demo- the halls of Congress, Bob did it with the trips play in our educational system. Not only cratic Party Precinct Delegate and the Vice- grace, intelligence, and compassion that will do they expose children to new ideas and ex- Chair of the Kent County Democrats. He is be his lasting legacy. I will miss working with periences, but they also promote a hands-on married to Jamee and is the stepfather to five him, and I will especially miss his friendship. style of learning that is vital to keeping our children, and has five grandchildren. f children engaged in their schoolwork. Faced Madam Speaker, please join me in con- with a tight budget that was unable to accom- gratulating Michael Bieber for being a diligent, HONORING THE LIVES OF MR. AND modate expenses for field trips, Mr. Estep conscientious proponent of the rights of work- MRS. JERRY AND JUDY RANK used his technological skills to overcome the ing men and women everywhere. He has ex- problem. He set up a system of virtual field hibited an abiding commitment to improving HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER trips in conjunction with the Monroe County the workplace, the community, our country OF MICHIGAN Historical Museum. This allowed students to and our world. I wish him the best as he em- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ask questions in real time to an expert at the barks on this new phase of his life. museum about the rich history of Monroe Tuesday, June 17, 2008 BIO—MICHAEL BIEBER County. Specifically, one virtual field trip dis- Michael Bieber was appointed as Assistant Mr. MCCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I cussed the Battle of the River Raisin, which Director of UAW Region 1–D in June of 2002 rise to recognize Mr. and Mrs. Jerry and Judy occurred in Monroe County during the War of by Director, Donald Oetman. Mike is a 3rd Rank, an inspirational couple, upon reaching 1812. Museum staff showed the students what generation UAW member. their 50th wedding anniversary. dress from that period looked like and they Mike became a member of UAW Local #167 Jerry and Judy were both brought up in Fort discussed the positions of both sides during in 1979 when he went to work at the General Dodge, Iowa and attended Fort Dodge High the war. Students in the district would not Motors, Diesel Equipment Division in Wyo- School. The idyllic duo began to date and be- have been able to have such an enriching ex- ming, Michigan. In 1981 Bieber transferred to the newly came high school sweethearts. On August 10, perience without the work of Chuck Estep. 1958, Jerry and Judy exchanged vows and formed UAW local #2151 representing work- The Battle of the River Raisin is arguably ers at the Coopersville, MI location of Roch- were pronounced for the first time as Mr. and the most violent battle on continental U.S. soil ester Products Division of G.M. Mrs. Jerry Rank. The Ranks relocated to outside of the Civil War, a fact many residents He served the Local as an Alternate Com- Michigan when Jerry furthered his career with in Monroe and Michigan are unaware of. This mittee Person on the B-shift and as a Shop Ford Tractor. Mr. Rank’s career with Ford virtual field trip paid special attention to the Committee Person for 4 years. lasted over 30 years, when he decided to re- great role that this Battle played in the War of Despite his relative youth, Bieber was tire and create new dreams with Judy. 1812, ensuring that the heritage and history of elected as President of the Local at the age Upon Mr. Rank’s retirement, Jerry and Judy Monroe County will live on through today’s of 27. He served in that capacity for six (6) years. have spent time with the loving family they students. have built together including their children Kyle He was appointed to the International In this age of technology, we must strive to UAW staff in May of 1993 and served under (Kris), Mark (Kim), and Beth (Hal) and their integrate all of the cutting edge tools that are the jurisdiction of the Secretary-Treasurer’s grandchildren, Joseph, Thomas, Jennifer, An- available to us into our educational system. office until he became Assistant Director. drew, and Halee. The beautiful pair continues Doing so will create vibrant and engaging Bieber has served on many community and their strong marriage in Beulah, Michigan on teaching methods that will keep our children labor organizations in Western Michigan. He Crystal Lake. Jerry and Judy enjoy watching interested in learning. Chuck Estep has cer- has been very active with the United Way in the sunset together, entertaining guests, and tainly demonstrated this capacity for innova- Ottawa County and currently serves on the salmon fishing, which is their favorite pastime. tion, and for this he should be commended. I Michigan Association of United Way execu- Madam Speaker, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry and tive board. am proud to represent him here in Congress. He is active in the Democratic Party as a Judy Rank are an extraordinary example of I congratulate him on being chosen as a win- Precinct Delegate and currently serves as love, strength, and togetherness that families ner for Cable’s Leaders in Learning Award for the Vice-Chair of the Kent County Demo- today should look to for guidance. The Ranks General Excellence Award, because he truly crats. will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary deserves it. Mike is married to his wife, Jamee. Mike is on August 10, 2008. I ask my colleagues to f the stepfather to five (5) children and they join me in congratulating The Ranks for reach- have (5) grandchildren. ing this spectacular milestone and honoring HONORING MICHAEL BIEBER the couple’s loyal service to the community f and our country. HON. DALE E. KILDEE HONORING THE CIVITAN CLUB OF f OF MICHIGAN WESTLAND IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN HONOR OF CHUCK ESTEP, WIN- NER OF THE 2008 CABLE’S LEAD- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER ERS IN LEARNING GENERAL EX- Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today OF MICHIGAN CELLENCE AWARD to honor Michael Bieber as he retires from the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES United Auto Workers. Mike is the Assistant Di- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 HON. JOHN D. DINGELL rector of UAW Region 1–D. A celebration in OF MICHIGAN his honor will be held in Bay City, Michigan, Mr. MCCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on July 14th. rise to acknowledge the Civitan Club of As a third generation UAW member, Mike Westland, a distinguished service organiza- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 joined the UAW Local 167 when he started tion, upon reaching 30 years as a chartered Mr. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today working at the General Motors Diesel Equip- international group. to honor Mr. Chuck Estep for being chosen as ment Division in Wyoming, Michigan, in 1979. Civitan Club of Westland is an organization a finalist for the 2008 Cable’s Leaders in He transferred to UAW Local 2151 when he open to all adult members in the community Learning Award for General Excellence. This moved to the Rochester Products Division in with the goal to improve the area, assist com- honor is bestowed annually by Cable in the Coopersville. He was the Alternate Committee munity members, and grow individually as bet- Classroom, the cable industry’s education Person on the B-shift and a Shop Committee ter citizens. Civitan performs its services both foundation which promotes the use of cable Person for 4 years. Elected as President of locally, nationally, and internationally. Some of and technology in schools across the country. the Local at the age of 27, he held that posi- their local projects include, Turn off the Vio- Every year, they honor those in the education tion for 6 years. In 1993 he was appointed to lence, Paws for a Cause Drive, and the Na- field who demonstrate leadership skills by the International UAW staff serving in the Sec- tional Wheelchair Basketball Tournament. using technology to transform the way we retary-Treasurer’s office until he was named Civitan targets many different careers, ages,

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17JN8.037 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1251 and interests. From Special Olympics to Nurs- public servant with a long and distinguished honorable service to the community and our ery Olympics, Police Departments to Fire De- career of service in Southwest Michigan. Larry country. partments, and Festivals to Historical preser- passed away unexpectedly this week and will f vation, the Civitans have a vast range of ac- be greatly missed by our community. tivities that they plan, organize, and contribute As the longtime mayor of Niles he was a A TRIBUTE RECOGNIZING SARAH their services to. valued and trusted friend. Upon my election to LOWE AND SONJA STEPTOE ON The Civitan Club of Westland was chartered Congress, part of Larry’s legacy came to THEIR RECENT APPOINTMENT on June 19, 1978, and led by Charter Presi- Washington with me, in the form of his son, TO THE KNIGHT COMMISSION ON dent Candice Addis. The organization has Jeff, who served as my first Legislative Direc- INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS continued its purpose of knowledge, service, tor. and fellowship for thirty years and has been Though Larry was an active Republican, he HON. LUCILLE ROYBAL-ALLARD successful in all its endeavors. To all those was not afraid to create coalitions to put the OF CALIFORNIA who have been touched by Civitan Club of best interests of Niles first—a lesson I learned IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Westland, a legacy of determination and com- from him and follow still today. He was indeed Tuesday, June 17, 2008 munity support has been established. ‘‘Mr. Niles’’ and I always appreciated his Madam Speaker, the Civitan Club of thoughts and interests, regularly weighing in Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD. Madam Speaker, I Westland is an organization that should be on behalf of the greater community good. rise today to recognize Sarah Lowe and Sonja recognized for its 30 years of service, devo- I would be hard pressed to find someone Steptoe, two residents of California’s 34th Dis- tion, and kindness to the Westland community. with a greater dedication to Niles and Berrien trict, on their recent appointment to the Knight I ask my colleagues to join me in congratu- County, MI. Larry faithfully served our commu- Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics. lating the Civitan Club of Westland for reach- nity for a combined 28 years—14 as the The Knight Commission was created by the ing this spectacular milestone and honoring mayor of Niles and 14 as a Berrien County John S. and James L. Knight Foundation in the group’s loyal service to the community and Commissioner. Outside of his official duties, 1989 with the purpose of recommending a re- our country. Larry earned the nickname ‘‘marrying mayor’’ form agenda that emphasizes academic val- f after performing more than 250 marriages, ues in college sports. The commission, which presented recommendations in a series of re- HORSE TRANSPORTATION SAFETY and was known for his sense of humor. ports in the early 1990s and in the subsequent ACT OF 2008 Larry was an exceptional public servant, and a gentleman. He has given a lifetime of A Call to Action in 2001, continues to monitor HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK service to our community, and our thoughts and report on progress in increasing presi- today are with his wife, Eleanor, and his fam- dential control, academic integrity, financial in- OF ILLINOIS ily. We lost a treasure in Niles, and we will all tegrity and independent certification of pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES miss him sorely. God bless ‘‘Mr. Niles.’’ grams in college athletics. Tuesday, June 17, 2008 f Many of the commission’s recommended re- Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, today Rep- forms have been enacted by the NCAA. For resentative STEVE COHEN and I introduced the HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE example, the NCAA recently announced that Horse Transportation Safety Act of 2008. OF MR. LES CASH, FIRE CHIEF 218 teams at 123 institutions will be sanc- In Wadsworth, Illinois, on Saturday October OF THE LYON TOWNSHIP FIRE tioned for failing to meet minimum academic 27, 2007, a double decker cattle truck carrying DEPARTMENT benchmarks established as part of the Aca- 59 Belgian draft horses overturned when the demic Performance Program. In 2001, the driver ran a red light and hit another vehicle. HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics Residents at the scene could hear the OF MICHIGAN advocated that teams be ineligible for animals kicking and screaming, panicked by IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES postseason competition if they failed to grad- their inability to escape. Eight horses died on uate at least 50 percent of their athletes. Al- the scene while another 10 had to be Tuesday, June 17, 2008 though the current benchmarks are lower than euthanized. After the crash, Wayne Pacelle, Mr. MCCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I those advocated by the Commission, the president and CEO of The Humane Society of rise to acknowledge Mr. Les Cash, Fire Chief Commission has supported the full implemen- the United States said, ‘‘What a gory mess we of the Lyon Township Fire Department, upon tation of the NCAA’s program since its adop- saw recently in Illinois. It must never happen reaching his retirement after 35 years of loyal tion in 2004. again....’’ service. The commission convenes several times a It is time that we heed these words by put- Mr. Les Cash was born in 1943, the sixth of year to highlight important issues facing inter- ting an end to using double decker trucks to ten siblings to Floyd and Leona Cash. In collegiate athletics, including academic integ- transport horses. This legislation, endorsed by 1960, Mr. Cash enlisted in the Army, served rity and the rising costs of college athletic pro- the Humane Society, Animal Welfare Institute, 16 months in Korea, and was later stationed grams. Hooved Animal Rescue and Protection Soci- in Missouri at Fort Leonard Wood where he The Commission is comprised of prominent ety, and the Communication Alliance to Net- worked as a battalion mail clerk. In 1963, Les leaders in higher education and journalism as work Thoroughbred ExRacehorses would take was honorably discharged and married his well as former collegiate athletes who have steps toward preventing this disaster from oc- lovely wife, Renate, in July. Together, the achieved excellence throughout their careers. curring again. blissful couple had two sons, Dan and Brian, I am proud to announce that Sonja Steptoe This bill prohibits the interstate transport of and one daughter, Lisa. and Sarah Lowe are two of the Knight Com- horses in a motor vehicle containing two or In 1964, Mr. Cash began a career for the mission’s newest members. more levels stacked on top of one another as Ford Motor Company where he remained until Sonja Steptoe serves as client development well as creates civil penalties between $100 his retirement over 30 years later. During this manager at O’Melveny & Myers LLP, an inter- and $500 for each horse involved. time, Les volunteered with the Lyon Township national law firm based in Los Angeles. Prior In my own State of Illinois, the State Gen- Fire Department. In 1973, Mr. Cash was hon- to joining O’Melveny in 2007, Steptoe served eral Assembly has already moved forward and ored to accept the position of Fire Chief and as a senior correspondent and deputy news passed similar legislation. I urge my col- became Full-Time Fire Chief in 1998. Les was director for Time Magazine for 5 years fol- leagues to become a cosponsor of this bipar- a devoted and determined leader and served lowing a successful career in sports jour- tisan commonsense legislation. his community with utmost ability. nalism. Steptoe reported and wrote for CNNSI f Madam Speaker, Mr. Les Cash will retire sports network, HBO’s RealSports with Bryant TRIBUTE TO LARRY CLYMER from Fire Chief of the Lyon Township Fire De- Gumbel and Sports Illustrated. Her investiga- partment on June 30, 2008. To his wife, tion of East Germany’s systematic doping of HON. FRED UPTON Renate; his children, Dan, Brian, and Lisa; his Olympic athletes earned her an Emmy Award grandchildren, Devin, Taylor, Brianna, and Ni- for Outstanding Sports Journalism. Steptoe OF MICHIGAN cole; and to everyone whose lives have been earned degrees in economics and journalism IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES enriched by him, Les is a man of courage, at the University of Missouri. She received a Tuesday, June 17, 2008 vigor, and guidance. I ask my colleagues to law degree from Duke University. Mr. UPTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today join me in congratulating Mr. Les Cash for his Sarah Lowe graduated magna cum laude to pay tribute to Larry Clymer, an outstanding 35 years as Fire Chief and honor Mr. Cash’s and Phi Beta Kappa from the University of

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17JN8.017 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS E1252 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks June 17, 2008 Florida in May 2006. Lowe was a leader on as the recipient of the Exemplary Source Had I been present for rollcall No. 402, I the women’s basketball team serving as team Water Protection Award for medium-sized would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ captain 3 of her 4 years. Following her grad- systems. This award recognizes organiza- Had I been present for rollcall No. 403, I uation, she studied in Costa Rica as a Ful- tions in North America who have developed would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ and are implementing exemplary source bright Scholar. In addition to being a two-time water protection programs. Had I been present for rollcall No. 404, I Rhodes scholar finalist, she received numer- In recognition of this honor, an award will would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ ous awards for her academic and athletics ex- be presented to you during the Atlanta An- Had I been present for rollcall No. 405, I cellence including the Arthur Ashe, Jr. 2006 nual Conference in June. Details regarding would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ Female Sport Scholar of the Year. the presentation will be sent to you later by Had I been present for rollcall No. 406, I Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join Linda Moody. would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ me in congratulating Sonja and Sarah on their The Association’s Officers and Directors Had I been present for rollcall No. 407, I achievements and in commending them for join me in congratulating you on this honor. would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ their continued commitment to strengthening Sincerely, Had I been present for rollcall No. 408, I higher education through their work on the GARY J. ZIMMERMAN, would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ Executive Director. Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Ath- Had I been present for rollcall No. 409, I letics. THE CITY OF DAVISON SOURCE WATER PROTEC- would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ TION PROGRAM: PROTECTING YOUR DRINKING Had I been present for rollcall No. 410, I f WATER RESOURCES would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ DAVISON SOURCE WATER Davison’s new $3.5 million dollar water Had I been present for rollcall No. 411, I PROTECTION PROGRAM groundwater treatment plant was put on-line would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ in July 2005. The plant receives water from the City’s five groundwater wells and can Had I been present for rollcall No. 412, I HON. DALE E. KILDEE treat up to 2.5 million gallons per day using would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ OF MICHIGAN filtration, softening and reverse osmosis. Had I been present for rollcall No. 413, I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Through cooperative efforts from Davison would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ Tuesday, June 17, 2008 and Richfield Townships, Davison’s Source f Water Protection Program identifies and Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I ask the manages threats to the city water supply. HONORING ISRAEL’S 60TH House of Representatives to join me in hon- Please call the DPW offices to learn more. ANNIVERSARY oring the City of Davison on receiving the Ex- Protect drinking water—our future de- emplary Source Water Protection Award from pends on it. HON. THELMA D. DRAKE the American Water Works Association. Every HOW DOES GROUNDWATER BECOME OF VIRGINIA CONTAMINATED? year the American Water Works Association IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES presents this award to a municipal water sys- Abandoned wells, leaking underground tem for developing and implementing effective storage tanks, industrial and transportation Tuesday, June 17, 2008 source water protection programs. activities, dumps and landfills, agricultural Mrs. DRAKE. Madam Speaker, I rise today This award signifies that the City of Davison activities, and homeowner activities. in tribute to the State of Israel and its proud has met the highest standards of excellence in How Can I Help? 60 years of existence. their pursuit to supply the residents of Davison f Last month we were celebrating Israel’s with clean, safe water. In July of 2005 60th birthday, and I was proud to vote in favor PERSONAL EXPLANATION Davison’s water treatment plant went online of a resolution honoring this great achieve- and has the capacity to treat up to 2.5 million ment. This month, I look forward in wishing gallons per day. Working cooperatively with HON. BOBBY L. RUSH Israel another 60 years as a strong and free Davison Township and Richfield Township, the OF ILLINOIS democracy. City of Davison has implemented a coopera- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I have always spoken about how my trip to tive effort to protect the ground water on which Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Israel in 2005 was a life changing event. With many rely. The new program includes provi- a young statehood but an ancient history, sions to reduce the number of abandoned Mr. RUSH. Madam Speaker, unfortunately I Israelis are faced with daily and often costly wells that pose a serious threat to the health have been out on medical leave. I have been reminders of the price of freedom. I do not be- of the aquifers. unable to cast votes; however, I would like the lieve a day has gone by since Israel’s found- The City of Davison, knowing that residents RECORD to reflect my intentions had I been ing where it has not been subject to attack. play an important role in protecting the water present to vote. Yet, through the sheer will of a people fighting supply, has worked to reach out to the com- Had I been present for rollcall No. 388, I for the right of a brighter future for their chil- munity in their Source Water Protection Pro- would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ dren, Israel still stands. gram. In the program Davison encourages Had I been present for rollcall No. 389, I Israel’s tumultuous existence has lent itself residents to be stewards of the water supply would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ to a very unique identity—one which can only by limiting the amount of lawn chemicals and Had I been present for rollcall No. 390, I be understood by the citizens who live their fertilizers that run off and enter the water sys- would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ everyday lives in range of the missiles and tem. Additionally, Davison has endeavored to Had I been present for rollcall No. 391, I suicide attacks of terrorists. However, these educate and inform the community that simple would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ unfortunate consequences of proximity have maintenance of septic and home plumbing Had I been present for rollcall No. 392, I created a nation of resolve—strengthening its systems can benefit both the community and would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ foundation and purpose as a shining beacon the individual by reducing water usage and Had I been present for rollcall No. 393, I of democracy in the Middle East. contamination. The city is assisting residents would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ Israel is a story of survival and today I identify and plug old wells that pose a dan- Had I been present for rollcall No. 394, I honor Israel’s perseverance and wish our ally gerous risk to the health and safety of the would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ a hopeful future. Best summed up by the community. Had I been present for rollcall No. 395, I words of by Dr. Israel Zoberman, founding Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Rep- would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ rabbi of Congregation Beth Chaverim in Vir- resentatives to join me in congratulating Mayor Had I been present for rollcall No. 396, I ginia Beach: Fred Fortner, the Davison City Council, the would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ ‘‘The Jewish state’s perseverance and for- staff, volunteers and residents for receiving Had I been present for rollcall No. 397, I titude to turn adversity into advantage, never this award. Through their commitment to hard would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ betraying the optimistic essence of its people, work and education they have demonstrated Had I been present for rollcall No. 398, I are ample testimony to the nobility of the good stewardship of this vital natural resource. would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ human spirit it has so profoundly enriched and AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION, Had I been present for rollcall No. 399, I painstakingly guarded.’’ Denver, CO, March 4, 2008. would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ The determined vigilance of Israel is a so- Ms. ANDREA L. SCHROEDER, City of Davison, Had I been present for rollcall No. 400, I bering reminder to us of what it sometimes Davison, MI. would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ takes to stand your ground in the face of ad- DEAR MS. SCHROEDER: I am pleased to in- Had I been present for rollcall No. 401, I versity; and let us remind Israel that she does form you that your utility has been selected would have voted ‘‘aye.’’ not stand alone in that fight.

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:33 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17JN8.019 E17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with REMARKS Tuesday, June 17, 2008 Daily Digest Senate Chamber Action House Messages: Diesel Emission Reduction: Senate concurred in Routine Proceedings, pages S5669–S5705 the amendment of the House of Representatives to Measures Introduced: Four bills were introduced, S. 2146, to authorize the Administrator of the Envi- as follows: S. 3141–3144. Page S5697 ronmental Protection Agency to accept, as part of a Measures Passed: settlement, diesel emission reduction Supplemental Environmental Projects, clearing the measure for the Juneteenth Independence Day: Committee on President. Pages S5704–05 the Judiciary was discharged from further consideration of S. Res. 584, recognizing the historical sig- Message from the President: Senate received the nificance of Juneteenth Independence Day and ex- following message from the President of the United pressing the sense of the Senate that history should States: be regarded as a means for understanding the past Transmitting, pursuant to law, a notification of and solving the challenges of the future, and the res- the designation of Shara L. Aranoff as Chairman and olution was then agreed to. Pages S5703–04 Daniel Pearson as Vice Chairman of the United States International Trade Commission, effective National Men’s Health Week: Committee on June 17, 2008; which was referred to the Committee Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions was dis- on Finance. (PM–52) Page S5690 charged from further consideration of S. Res. 585, supporting National Men’s Health Week, and the Messages from the House: Page S5690 resolution was then agreed to. Pages S5704 Enrolled Bills Presented: Page S5690 Measures Considered: Executive Communications: Page S5690 Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act: Senate Petitions and Memorials: Pages S5690–97 continued consideration of the motion to proceed to Additional Cosponsors: Pages S5697–99 consideration of H.R. 6049, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide incentives for en- Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: ergy production and conservation, to extend certain Pages S5699–S5703 expiring provisions, to provide individual income tax Additional Statements: Pages S5689–90 relief. Pages S5678–80, S5681–82 Notices of Hearings/Meetings: Page S5703 During consideration of this measure today, Senate also took the following action: Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S5703 By 52 yeas to 44 nays (Vote No. 150), three-fifths Privileges of the Floor: Page S5703 of those Senators duly chosen and sworn, not having Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. voted in the affirmative, Senate rejected the motion (Total—150) Pages S5682 to close further debate on the motion to proceed to consideration of the bill. Page S5681–82 Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. and ad- Senator Reid entered a motion to reconsider the journed at 5:51 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, vote by which the motion to invoke cloture on the June 18, 2008. (For Senate’s program, see the re- motion to proceed to consideration of the bill (listed marks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s Record on page S5705.) above) failed. Page S5682 A unanimous-consent agreement was reached providing for further consideration of the motion to proceed to consideration of the bill at approximately 10 a.m., on Wednesday, June 18, 2008. Page S5705 D753

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:26 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17JN8.REC D17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST D754 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST June 17, 2008 South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, Pierre; Committee Meetings T. Boone Pickens, BP Capital, Dallas, Texas; Rich- (Committees not listed did not meet) ard Halvey, Western Governors Association, Denver, Colorado; William Kaul, Great River Energy, Maple ENERGY AND AGRICULTURE MARKETS Grove, Minnesota; and Don Furman, American Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Com- Wind Energy Association, Washington, D.C. mittee concluded a joint hearing with the Com- LAND BILLS mittee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government to examine the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Sub- role, responsibilities, and resource needs of the Com- committee on National Parks concluded a hearing to modity Futures Trading Commission on oversight of examine S. 1774 and H.R. 3022, bills to designate futures and derivatives markets in energy and agri- the John Krebs Wilderness in the State of California, culture, after receiving testimony from Walter to add certain land to the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Lukken, Acting Chairman, Commodities Futures National Park Wilderness, S. 2255, to amend the Trading Commission; Mark Cooper, Consumer Fed- National Trails System Act to provide for studies of eration of America, and James C. May, Air Transport the Chisholm Trail and Great Western Trail to de- Association of America, Inc., both of Washington, termine whether to add the trails to the National D.C.; Terrence A. Duffy, Chicago Mercantile Ex- Trails System, S. 2359, to establish the St. Augus- change Group Inc., Chicago, Illinois; James tine 450th Commemoration Commission, S. 2943, Newsome, New York Mercantile Exchange, Inc., to amend the National Trails System Act to des- New York, New York; and Charles A. Vice, Inter- ignate the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, continental Exchange, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia. S. 3017, to designate the Beaver Basin Wilderness at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the State of INTERROGATION TECHNIQUES AND Michigan, S. 3010, to reauthorize the Route 66 Cor- TREATMENT OF DETAINEES ridor Preservation Program, S. 3045, to establish the Committee on Armed Services: Committee held a hear- Kenai Mountains-Turnagain Arm National Forest ing to examine the origins of aggressive interroga- Heritage Area in the State of Alaska, H.R. 1143, to tion techniques, focusing the Committee’s inquiry authorize the Secretary of the Interior to lease certain into the treatment of detainees in U.S. custody, re- lands in Virgin Islands National Park, and S. 3096, ceiving testimony from Richard L. Shiffrin, former to amend the National Cave and Karst Research In- Deputy General Counsel for Intelligence, Lieutenant stitute Act of 1998 to authorize appropriations for Colonel Daniel J. Baumgartner, Jr., USAF (Ret.), the National Cave and Karst Research Institute, after Former Chief of Staff, Joint Personnel Recovery receiving testimony from Senator Boxer; Representa- Agency, Jerald F. Ogrisseg, former Chief, Psychology tive Christensen; Mark Rey, Under Secretary of Ag- Services, 336th Training Group, United States Air riculture for Natural Resources and Environment; Force Survival School, Alberto J. Mora, former Gen- Karen Taylor-Goodrich, Associate Director, Visitor eral Counsel, United States Navy, Rear Admiral Jane and Resource Protection, National Park Service, De- G. Dalton, USN (Ret.), former Legal Adviser to the partment of the Interior; and Jon Knechtel, Pacific Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Lieutenant Colonel Northwest Trail Association, Sedro-Woolley, Wash- Diane E. Beaver, USA (Ret.), former Staff Judge Ad- ington. vocate, Joint Task Force 170/JTF Guantanamo Bay, U.S. ECONOMY and William J. Haynes, II, former General Counsel, all of the Department of Defense. Committee on Finance: Committee concluded a hearing Hearing recessed subject to the call. to examine the long-term fiscal outlook of the United States economy, focusing on the federal debt, RENEWABLE ELECTRICITY RESOURCES health care costs, Social Security, and the gross do- Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee mestic product (GDP), after receiving testimony concluded a hearing to examine the challenges and from Peter R. Orszag, Director, Congressional Budg- regional solutions to developing transmission for re- et Office; and Gene L. Dodaro, Acting Comptroller newable electricity resources, after receiving testi- General of the United States, Government Account- mony from Senator Reid; Kevin M. Kolevar, Assist- ability Office. ant Secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Re- liability, and Stephen J. Wright, Administrator, INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE Bonneville Power Administration, both of the De- Committee on Foreign Relations: Subcommittee on partment of Energy; Bryce Freeman, Wyoming In- International Development and Foreign Assistance, frastructure Authority, Cheyenne; Gary Hanson, Economic Affairs and International Environmental

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Protection concluded a hearing to examine inter- and United States-Russian nuclear cooperation from national disaster assistance, focusing on policy op- William J. Burns, Under Secretary of State for Polit- tions, after receiving testimony from James B. ical Affairs. Warlick, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs; James PROTECTING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY Kunder, Acting Deputy Administrator, U.S. Agency Committee on the Judiciary: Committee concluded a for International Development; Edward C. Luck, United Nations, New York, New York; and Mark L. hearing to examine protecting consumers by pro- Schneider, International Crisis Group, and Stewart tecting intellectual property, after receiving testi- Patrick, Council on Foreign Relations, both of mony from Loren Yager, Director, International Af- Washington, D.C. fairs and Trade, Government Accountability Office; Brian Monks, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Mel- RUSSIA, IRAN, AND U.S.-RUSSIAN ville, New York; Mike Rose, Johnson and Johnson NUCLEAR COOPERATION Health Care Systems, Inc., Fountainville, Pennsyl- Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee met in vania; and Jeff Thurnau, Gates Corporation, Denver, closed session to receive a briefing on Russia, Iran, Colorado. h House of Representatives and other security threats to our Nation’s rail and Chamber Action mass transit lines, with amendments (H. Rept. Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 15 pub- 110–716); lic bills, H.R. 6274–6288; and 4 resolutions, H. Supplemental report on H.R. 5781, to provide Res. 1275, 1278–1280 were introduced. that 8 of the 12 weeks of parental leave made avail- Pages H5880–81 able to a Federal employee shall be paid leave (H. Additional Cosponsors: Pages H5781–83 Rept. 110–624, Pt. 2); H. Res. 1276, providing for consideration of the Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: bill (H.R. 5876) to require certain standards and en- H.R. 2964, to amend the Lacey Act Amendments forcement provisions to prevent child abuse and ne- of 1981 to treat nonhuman primates as prohibited glect in residential programs (H. Rept. 110–717); wildlife species under that Act and to make correc- and H. Res. 1277, providing for consideration of the tions in the provisions relating to captive wildlife of- bill (H.R. 5781) to provide that 8 of the 12 weeks fenses under that Act, with an amendment (H. Rept. of parental leave made available to a Federal em- 110–712); ployee shall be paid leave (H. Rept. 110–718). H.R. 3702, to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain land in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge Page H5480 National Forest, Montana, to Jefferson County, Mon- Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein she tana, for use as a cemetery (H. Rept. 110–713); appointed Representative Larsen (WA) to act as H.R. 5710, to authorize the Secretary of the Inte- Speaker Pro Tempore for today. Page H5413 rior to provide financial assistance to the Eastern Recess: The House recessed at 12:50 p.m. and re- New Mexico Rural Water Authority for the plan- convened at 2 p.m. Page H5415 ning, design, and construction of the Eastern New Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules Mexico Rural Water System (H. Rept. 110–714); and pass the following measures: H.R. 5511, to direct the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Reclamation, to rem- Captive Primate Safety Act: H.R. 2964, amend- edy problems caused by a collapsed drainage tunnel ed, to amend the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 in Leadville, Colorado (H. Rept. 110–715); to treat nonhuman primates as prohibited wildlife H. Res. 1150, expressing the sense of the House species under that Act and to make corrections in of Representatives that the Transportation Security the provisions relating to captive wildlife offenses Administration should, in accordance with the con- under that Act, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 302 gressional mandate provided for in the Imple- yeas to 96 nays, Roll No. 414; Pages H5417–21, H5457 menting Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Montana Cemetery Act of 2008: H.R. 3702, Act of 2007, enhance security against terrorist attack amended, to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:26 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17JN8.REC D17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST D756 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST June 17, 2008 convey certain land in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge Na- District and its employees for their sound financial tional Forest, Montana, to Jefferson County, Mon- management and innovative groundwater manage- tana, for use as a cemetery, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay ment, water quality, water efficiency, and environ- vote of 396 yeas with none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. mental programs, on its 75th anniversary; 415; Pages H5421, H5457–58 Pages H5426–28 Honoring the life of Timothy John Russert, Jr., Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System Au- public servant, political analyst, and author: H. thorization Act: H.R. 5710, amended, to authorize Res. 1275, to honor the life of Timothy John the Secretary of the Interior to provide financial as- Russert, Jr., public servant, political analyst, and au- sistance to the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water thor, by a 2/3 yea-and-nay vote of 395 yeas with Authority for the planning, design, and construction none voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 416; of the Eastern New Mexico Rural Water System; Pages H5441–45, H5458–59 Pages H5428–30 Granting a Federal charter to Korean War Vet- Leadville Mine Drainage Tunnel Remediation erans Association, Incorporated: S. 1692, to grant a Act of 2008: H.R. 5511, amended, to direct the Sec- Federal charter to Korean War Veterans Association, retary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Incorporated—clearing the measure for the Presi- Reclamation, to remedy problems caused by a col- dent; Pages H5445–49 lapsed drainage tunnel in Leadville, Colorado; Revising the short title of the Fannie Lou Pages H5430–31 Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott King Vot- Expressing support for designation of April ing Rights Act Reauthorization and Amendments 2008 as ‘‘Public Radio Recognition Month’’: H. Act of 2006: S. 188, to revise the short title of the Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks, and Coretta Scott Res. 1002, amended, to express support for designa- King Voting Rights Act Reauthorization and tion of April 2008 as ‘‘Public Radio Recognition Amendments Act of 2006—clearing the measure for Month’’; Pages H5431–32 the President; and Pages H5449–54 Celebrating the symbol of the United States flag Recognizing the Honorable Andrew L. Jefferson, and supporting the goals and ideals of Flag Day: Jr., on the occasion of the establishment of an en- H. Res. 1219, to celebrate the symbol of the United dowment for trial advocacy called the ‘‘Andrew L. States flag and to support the goals and ideals of Jefferson Endowment for Trial Advocacy’’ at Texas Flag Day; Pages H5432–35 Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Congratulating and recognizing Mr. Juan Anto- Law in Houston, Texas: H. Res. 31, to recognize nio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Rodriguez for his continued success the Honorable Andrew L. Jefferson, Jr., on the occa- on and off of the golf course, for his generosity and sion of the establishment of an endowment for trial devotion to charity, and for his exemplary dedica- advocacy called the ‘‘Andrew L. Jefferson Endow- tion to the intellectual and moral growth of thou- ment for Trial Advocacy’’ at Texas Southern Univer- sands of low-income and disadvantaged youth in sity’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, our country: H. Res. 1029, amended, to congratu- Texas. Pages H5454–56 late and recognize Mr. Juan Antonio ‘‘Chi-Chi’’ Suspensions—Proceedings Postponed: The House Rodriguez for his continued success on and off of the debated the following measures under suspension of golf course, for his generosity and devotion to char- the rules. Further proceedings were postponed: ity, and for his exemplary dedication to the intellec- Supporting the goals and ideals of ‘‘American tual and moral growth of thousands of low-income Eagle Day’’, and celebrating the recovery and res- and disadvantaged youth in our country; toration of the American bald eagle, the national Pages H5735–36 symbol of the United States: H. Res. 1247, amend- John P. Gallagher Post Office Building Des- ed, to support the goals and ideals of ‘‘American ignation Act: H.R. 6150, to designate the facility of Eagle Day’’, and to celebrate the recovery and res- the United States Postal Service located at 14500 toration of the American bald eagle, the national Lorain Avenue in Cleveland, Ohio, as the ‘‘John P. symbol of the United States; Pages H5421–26 Gallagher Post Office Building’’; Pages H5437–38 Commending the Orange County Water District Gerald R. Ford Post Office Building Designa- and its employees for their sound financial man- tion Act: H.R. 6085, to designate the facility of the agement and innovative groundwater manage- United States Postal Service located at 42222 Ran- ment, water quality, water efficiency, and envi- cho Las Palmas Drive in Rancho Mirage, California, ronmental programs, on its 75th anniversary: H. as the ‘‘Gerald R. Ford Post Office Building’’; and Res. 1199, to commend the Orange County Water Pages H5438–40

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:26 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17JN8.REC D17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST June 17, 2008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D757 Recognizing the historical significance of full Committee action the Financial Services and Juneteenth Independence Day, and expressing the General Government Appropriations for Fiscal Year sense of the House of Representatives that history 2009. should be regarded as a means for understanding the past and more effectively facing the challenges LEGAL REDRESS FOR TERRORISM VICTIMS of the future: H. Res. 1237, to recognize the histor- Committee on the Judiciary: Held a hearing on Ensur- ical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day, ing Legal Redress for American Victims of State- and to express the sense of the House of Representa- Sponsored Terrorism. Testimony was heard from tives that history should be regarded as a means for Representatives Braley of Iowa and Sestak; and pub- understanding the past and more effectively facing lic witnesses. the challenges of the future. Pages H5440–41 FEDERAL EMPLOYEES PAID PARENTAL Recess: The House recessed at 6:20 p.m. and recon- LEAVE ACT OF 2008 vened at 6:32 p.m. Page H7457 Committee on Rules: Granted, by a voice vote, a rule Meeting Hour: Agreed that when the House ad- providing for consideration of H.R. 5781, the ‘‘Fed- journs today, it adjourn to meet at 9:30 a.m. tomor- eral Employees Paid Parental Leave Act of 2008.’’ row. Page H5457 The rule provides for 1 hour of debate equally di- Presidential Message: Read a message from the vided and controlled by the chairman and ranking President wherein he notified Congress of his des- minority member of the Committee on Oversight ignation of Shara L. Aranoff as Chairman and Daniel and Government Reform. Pearson as Vice Chairman of the United States Inter- The rule waives all points of order against consid- national Trade Commission, effective June 17, eration of the bill except those arising under clause 2008—referred to the Committee on Ways and 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides the amend- Means. Page H5431 ment in the nature of a substitute recommended by Senate Messages: Messages received from the Senate the Committee on Oversight and Government Re- by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the form shall be considered as adopted and the bill, as House today appear on pages H5417, and H5431. amended, shall be considered as read. The rule Senate Referrals: S. Con. Res. 84 was referred to waives all points of order against provisions of the the Committee on Oversight and Government Re- bill. The rule makes in order the amendment printed form. Page H5479 in the Rules Committee report if offered by Rep. Amendments: Amendments ordered printed appear Davis of Illinois or his designee. The rule waives all on pages H5483–84. points of order against such amendment except those Quorum Calls—Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes de- arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The veloped during the proceedings of today and appear amendment made in order shall be considered as on pages H5457, H5458, and H5458–59. There read and shall be debatable for 10 minutes equally were no quorum calls. divided by the proponent and an opponent. Adjournment: The House met at 12:30 p.m. and The resolution provides one motion to recommit adjourned at 9:56 p.m. with or without instructions. Finally, notwithstanding the operation of the previous question, the Chair may postpone further consideration until a Committee Meetings time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT, heard from Representative Davis of Illinois. AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL YEAR 2009 STOP CHILD ABUSE IN RESIDENTIAL PROGRAMS FOR TEENS ACT OF 2008 Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Related Agencies ap- Committee on Rules: Granted, by a non-record vote, a proved for full Committee action the Energy and rule providing for consideration of H.R. 5876, the Water Development and Related Agencies Appro- ‘‘Stop Child Abuse in Residential Programs for priations for Fiscal Year 2009. Teens Act of 2008.’’ The rule provides for 1 hour of debate equally divided and controlled by the FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL chairman and ranking minority member of the Com- GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS FISCAL mittee on Education and Labor. YEAR 2009 The rule waives all points of order against consid- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Finan- eration of the bill except clauses 9 and 10 of rule cial Services, and General Government approved for XXI. The rule provides that the amendment in the

VerDate Aug 31 2005 05:26 Jun 18, 2008 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17JN8.REC D17JNPT1 jbell on PROD1PC69 with DIGEST D758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST June 17, 2008 nature of a substitute recommended by the Com- Thorson, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Depart- mittee on Education and Labor now printed in the ment of the Treasury, Edwin Eck, of Montana, to be a bill shall be considered as an original bill for the Member of the Internal Revenue Service Oversight Board, purpose of amendment and shall be considered as and Deanna Tanner Okun, of Idaho, to be a Deputy read. The rule waives all points of order against the United States Trade Representative, with the rank of Ambassador, Executive Office of the President, 10 a.m., amendment in the nature of a substitute except for SD–215. clause 10 of rule XXI. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: The rule makes in order only those amendments to hold hearings to examine protecting personal informa- printed in the report of the Committee on Rules. tion, focusing on steps the federal government has in The amendments made in order may be offered only place, 10 a.m., SD–342. in the order printed in the Rules Committee report, Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Antitrust, may be offered only by a Member designated in the Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, with the Spe- report, shall be considered as read, shall be debatable cial Committee on Aging, to hold joint hearings to ex- for the time specified in the report equally divided amine S. 2838, to amend chapter 1 of title 9 of United and controlled by the proponent and an opponent, States Code with respect to arbitration, 10:30 a.m., shall not be subject to amendment, and shall not be SD–226. Committee on Rules and Administration: to hold hearings subject to a demand for a division of the question to examine improving energy efficiency, focusing on in- in the House or in the Committee of the Whole. All creasing the use of renewable sources of energy, and re- points of order against the amendments except for ducing the carbon footprint of the Capitol complex, 10 clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI are waived. The rule a.m., SR–301. provides one motion to recommit with or without Special Committee on Aging: with the Committee on the instructions. The rule provides that, notwithstanding Judiciary, Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Pol- the operation of the previous question, the Chair icy and Consumer Rights, to hold joint hearings to exam- may postpone further consideration of the bill to a ine S. 2838, to amend chapter 1 of title 9 of United time designated by the Speaker. Testimony was States Code with respect to arbitration, 10:30 a.m., heard from Chairman George Miller of California. SD–226. f House COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, Committee on Appropriations, to mark up the following: JUNE 18, 2008 Subcommittee Allocations 302 (b)s; Homeland Security Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2009; and Interior, Envi- (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) ronment, and Related Agencies for Fiscal Year 2009, 10 a.m., 2359 Rayburn. Senate Committee on Education and Labor, to mark up the fol- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Com- lowing bills: H.R. 3195, ADA Restoration Act of 2007; merce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, business H.R. 2343, Education Begins at Home Act; and H.R. meeting to mark up proposed budget estimates for fiscal 3036, No Child Left Inside Act of 2007, 10 a.m., 2175 year 2009 for Commerce, Justice, Science, and related Rayburn. agencies, 10 a.m., SD–192. Committee on Financial Services, hearing entitled ‘‘The Subcommittee on Homeland Security, business meeting 15th Replenishment of the International Development to mark up proposed budget estimates for fiscal year Association (IDA) and the 11th Replenishment of the Af- 2009 for the Department of Homeland Security, 11 a.m., rican Development Fund (AfSF),’’ 10 a.m., 2128 Ray- S–127, Capitol. burn. Committee on Armed Services: to receive a closed briefing Committee on Foreign Affairs, hearing on The Caucasus: on the report titled ‘‘Investigation into the Shipment of Frozen Conflicts and Closed Borders; 10 a.m., 2172 Ray- Sensitive Missile Components to Taiwan,’’ also known as burn. the ‘‘Donald Report’’, 12:15 p.m., S–407, Capitol. Committee on House Administration, Subcommittee on Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: to hold hear- Capitol Security, hearing on the United States Capitol ings to examine the preparedness of federal land manage- Police Radio Upgrades, 2 p.m., 1310 Longworth. ment agencies for the 2008 wildfire season, 2 p.m., Committee on the Judiciary, to mark up the following SD–366. bills: H.R. 3195, ADA Restoration Act of 2007; H.R. Committee on Finance: business meeting to consider S. J. 3546, To authorize the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Res. 38, waiving certain provisions of the Trade Act of Assistance Grant Program at fiscal year 2006 levels 1974 relating to the appointment of a Deputy United through 2012, 10:15 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. States Trade Representative, an original bill entitled ‘‘the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Iran Sanctions of 2008’’, and the nominations of Richard Civil Liberties, hearing on: From the Department of Jus- T. Morrison, David Gustafson, both of Virginia, and Eliz- tice to Guantanamo Bay: Administration Lawyers and abeth Crewson Paris, of the District of Columbia, each to Administration Interrogation Rules, Part II, 2 p.m., 2141 be a Judge of the United States Tax Court, Eric M. Rayburn.

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Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Fish- Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public eries, Wildlife and Oceans, oversight hearing on the reau- Buildings and Emergency Management, hearing on The thorization of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act, 10 Federal Protective Service: An Agency in Need of Re- a.m., 1324 Longworth. building, 1 p.m., 2253 Rayburn. Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests, and Public Committee on Ways and Means, to mark up the Alter- Lands and the Subcommittee on Water and Power, joint native Minimum Tax Relief Act of 2008, 10:30 a.m., oversight hearing on Paying to Play: Implementation of 1100 Longworth. Fee Authority on Federal Lands, 10 a.m., 1324 Long- Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warm- worth. ing, hearing entitled ‘‘Planning Communities for a Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Sub- Changing Climate—Smart Growth, Public Demand and committee on National Security, and Foreign Affairs, Private Opportunity,’’ 9:30 a.m., 311 Cannon. hearing on Oversight of the U.S. Efforts to Train and Equip Police and Enhance the Justice Sector in Afghani- Joint Meetings stan, 10 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. Committee on Science and Technology, Subcommittee on Joint Hearing: Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Sub- Energy and Environment, to mark up the following committee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Con- measures: H.R. 4174, Federal Ocean Acidification Re- sumer Rights, with the Special Committee on Aging, to search and Monitoring Act of 2007; H.R. 5618, National hold joint hearings to examine S. 2838, to amend chapter Sea Grant College Program Amendments Act of 2008; 1 of title 9 of United States Code with respect to arbitra- and the Heavy Duty Plug-in-Hybrid Vehicles Research tion, 10:30 a.m., SD–226. Program, 10 a.m., 2318 Rayburn. Joint Hearing: Senate Special Committee on Aging, Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on Finance with the Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on and Tax, hearing entitled ‘‘S-corps: Recommended Re- Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights, to forms that Promote Parity, Growth and Development for hold joint hearings to examine S. 2838, to amend chapter Small Businesses, 10 a.m., 1539 Longworth. 1 of title 9 of United States Code with respect to arbitra- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Sub- tion, 10:30 a.m., SD–226. committee on Aviation, hearing on Congestion Manage- ment in the New York Airspace, 10 a.m., 2167 Rayburn.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Act of 2008; 4) H. Res. 1150—Expressing the sense of 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 18 the House of Representatives that the Transportation Se- curity Administration should, in accordance with the congressional mandate provided for in the Implementing Senate Chamber Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, enhance security against terrorist attack and other security Program for Wednesday: Senate will continue consider- threats to our Nation’s rail and mass transit lines; 5) ation of the motion to proceed to consideration of H.R. H.R. 4749—National Bombing Prevention Act of 2007; 6049, Energy and Tax Extenders Act; following which, 6) H.R. 1333—The Civil Air Patrol Homeland Security Senate will be in a period of morning business from 2:30 Support Act; 7) H.R. 2631—Nuclear Forensics and At- p.m. until 4:30 p.m. tribution Act; 8) H. Res. 1230—Condemning post election violence in Zimbabwe and calling for a peaceful resolution to the current political crisis; 9) H. Con. Res. Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 350—Expressing the sense of the Congress that the United States, through the International Whaling Com- 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 18 mission, should use all appropriate measures to end commercial whaling in all of its forms and seek to strengthen the conservation and management measures to facilitate House Chamber the conservation of whale species; and 10) H. Res. Program for Wednesday: Consideration of the following 1270—Commending the efforts of those who sought to suspensions: 1) H.R. 4179—FAST Redress Act of 2007; block an international arms transfer destined for 2) H.R. 5982—The Biometric Enhancement for Airport- Zimbabwe. Complete consideration of H.R. 6063—Na- Risk Reduction Act of 2008; 3) H.R. 5909—Catching tional Aeronautics and Space Administration Authoriza- Operational Vulnerabilities by Ensuring Random Testing tion Act of 2008.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Drake, Thelma D., Va., E1252 Payne, Donald M., N.J., E1239 Dreier, David, Calif., E1245 Petri, Thomas E., Wisc., E1238 Alexander, Rodney, La., E1240 Duncan, John J., Jr., Tenn., E1243 Roybal-Allard, Lucille, Calif., E1251 Bachmann, Michele, Minn., E1237, E1240 Eshoo, Anna G., Calif., E1247 Rush, Bobby L., Ill., E1252 Boswell, Leonard L., Iowa, E1247 Graves, Sam, Mo., E1239 Sherman, Brad, Calif., E1249 Braley, Bruce L., Iowa, E1248 Higgins, Brian, N.Y., E1237, E1240 Shimkus, John, Ill., E1240 Burton, Dan, Ind., E1241 Hunter, Duncan, Calif., E1244 Shuster, Bill, Pa., E1238 Buyer, Steve, Ind., E1237, E1246 Kennedy, Patrick J., R.I., E1243 Smith, Christopher H., N.J., E1245 Camp, Dave, Mich., E1245 Kildee, Dale E., Mich., E1250, E1252 Tancredo, Thomas G., Colo., E1242 Crowley, Joseph, N.Y., E1249 Kind, Ron, Wisc., E1248, E1248 Towns, Edolphus, N.Y., E1237, E1239, E1241, E1244, Cuellar, Henry, Tex., E1238 Kirk, Mark Steven, Ill., E1251 E1247, E1249, E1249 Davis, David, Tenn., E1237, E1240 Kucinich, Dennis J., Ohio, E1243, E1247 Upton, Fred, Mich., E1251 Davis, Susan A., Calif., E1242 Lee, Barbara, Calif., E1248 Visclosky, Peter J., Ind., E1241 DeLauro, Rosa L., Conn., E1244 Lewis, Jerry, Calif., E1246 Wilson, Joe, S.C., E1246 Dingell, John D., Mich., E1250 McCotter, Thaddeus G., Mich., E1250, E1250, E1251 Woolsey, Lynn C., Calif., E1249

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