SENATE—Monday, March 16, 2009

Home , 70th Armor Regiment, Daniel Henninger, George Vujnovich

March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7301 SENATE—Monday, March 16, 2009

The Senate met at 2 p.m. and was consideration of the motion to proceed inclusive and of the minority to be con- called to order by the Honorable JIM to H.R. 146, which is the legislative ve- structive. WEBB, a Senator from the Common- hicle for the lands bill. At 5:30 p.m. In the early days of the 111th Con- wealth of Virginia. today, we will have a cloture vote on gress, Democrats have worked to be in- the motion to proceed. clusive. We have achieved considerable PRAYER On the lands bill issue, Dr. COBURN is legislative success: passing a major The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- supposed to give me some amendments lands bill which we will return to later fered the following prayer: today that we will take a look at and this week, as I have indicated; the chil- Let us pray. see whether we are going to be able to dren’s health insurance bill to provide Everlasting God, who commanded work something out to have some health coverage to millions of children light from darkness and divided the amendments offered. As my colleagues of low-income families; the Lilly waters into sea and dry land, great and know, we are back again with this Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to ensure the wonderful are Your works. By Your issue. This represents a number of bills principle of equal pay for equal work; power and might, sustain our Senators that have been held up—a number of the President’s Economic Recovery Act this day. Lord, give them the courage these bills have been held up for some to begin stabilizing our economy and to embrace the good and to avoid the time over the past year. In the House, addressing the fiscal crisis this Presi- evil. When they are fainthearted, an issue came up, and they amended it dent inherited; and, of course, we strengthen them. When they are weak, and put it on the consent calendar, and passed the Omnibus appropriations bill, support them. When they feel doubts, it failed by two votes. They didn’t get which was unfinished business from the infuse them with faith in Your power, the two-thirds, so it comes back here. I Bush Presidency. This important legis- mercy, and grace. Transform their hope we can work something out; oth- lation funds Government for the rest of work into an expression of their wor- erwise, we will just proceed as we have the fiscal year and provides funds to ship of You as You help them make a in the past. Sometime tomorrow, we help meet the needs of the American renewed commitment to excellence in will be on the bill, probably at about 4 people. This success has come when words and deeds. o’clock. We will offer an amendment at Democrats and Republicans have put We pray in Your sacred Name. Amen. that time and proceed to do what we politics aside to find common ground. f need to do. Dr. COBURN has indicated to This week, we will return to consid- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE me that he won’t require reading of the eration of a package of more than 160 amendment, which could take a lot of public land bills, as I mentioned ear- The Honorable JIM WEBB led the time, but we will see what we can work lier, that will protect our environment Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: out with him and move forward as and natural resources for generations I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the quickly as we can. to come. This lands package has been United States of America, and to the Repub- called, by editorial writers all over the lic for which it stands, one nation under God, f indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. country, the most significant environ- ADDRESSING AMERICA’S mental legislation in more than a quar- f PRIORITIES ter of a century. APPOINTMENT OF ACTING Mr. REID. Mr. President, this week- Chairman BINGAMAN and Senator PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE end, we learned that AIG doled out $165 MURKOWSKI did an outstanding job of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The million in bonuses to their senior ex- working together in the committee. clerk will please read a communication ecutives—bonuses paid for with tax- The Senate followed their example by to the Senate from the President pro payer-funded bailout dollars. With mil- approving the bill earlier this year by a tempore (Mr. BYRD). lions of Americans out of work, staying strong bipartisan majority of 73 votes. The legislative clerk read the fol- up nights trying to figure out how to As we near the finish line on this legis- lowing letter: make this week’s paycheck last until lation, I hope Senators from both par- U.S. SENATE, the next paycheck, wondering how ties will continue to follow the bipar- PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, they will make the next mortgage pay- tisan example set by Senators BINGA- Washington, DC, March 16, 2009. ment or pay the overdue bill—maybe MAN and MURKOWSKI by once again vot- To the Senate: even a tuition bill—these executive bo- ing to pass this legislation. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, nuses are beyond even outrageous. I We will also vote on several nominees of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby don’t know what a term is that is more to President Obama’s administration. appoint the Honorable JIM WEBB, a Senator definitive than ‘‘outrageous,’’ but We hope to do it in the next few days. from the Commonwealth of Virginia, to perform the duties of the Chair. ‘‘outrageous’’ does the trick. These bo- As our new President attempts to over- ROBERT C. BYRD, nuses being paid are outrageous. come the enormous burdens he inher- President pro tempore. President Obama has instructed Sec- ited from the previous administration, Mr. WEBB thereupon assumed the retary Geithner to pursue every legal it is critical that we help him succeed chair as Acting President pro tempore. avenue to address this grievous abuse by providing him with all the tools, of taxpayer money. I applaud that ef- staff, and expertise he needs. f fort. Our financial sector will never Starting this week, Members will RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY heal unless the financial companies begin to discuss President Obama’s LEADER that helped create this economic crisis budget for the 2010 fiscal year. The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- begin to regain the public trust. The Less than 2 months into his term, pore. The majority leader is recog- actions of AIG do just the opposite, and President Obama has already taken nized. every American is justified in their bold and necessary steps to begin the f outrage at this breach of public trust. long climb out of the deep ditch that President Obama was asked recently was left to him by the previous admin- SCHEDULE about the role of bipartisanship in ad- istration’s fiscal policies. We have Mr. REID. Mr. President, following dressing America’s priorities. He said begun to take the necessary steps to leader remarks, the Senate will resume that it is the job of the majority to be get our economy back on track, save

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

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Americans might not see an immediate sions are immense: more jobs lost, less The President’s budget is built on the increase in their income taxes, but innovation, fewer new products, and promise that no matter how difficult there is more than one way, as they lower salaries for employees, almost our immediate challenge, we have to say, to skin a cat, and there is more all of whom are probably making less keep focused on the future. We will do than one way for Government to take than $200,000 a year. that by investing in health care, edu- money out of your pocket. I will men- Hundreds of thousands of Americans cation, and a cleaner more affordable tion just three that the administration are losing their jobs every month. Mil- energy policy, while providing tax re- has proposed. lions fear losing their homes. In relief and helping middle-class Ameri- First, there is the proposed new en- sponse, the administration has prom- cans afford to purchase and stay in ergy tax which would tax everyone who ised in this budget a tax hike on the their homes. uses energy, which, of course, is 100 Nation’s biggest job creators. These These are some of the most serious percent of the population. businesses are shedding workers al- issues we have ever faced, and we face The administration estimates that ready. Higher taxes will force them to them together. We must all realize its cap-and-trade proposal would raise shed even more. that. As we move forward, we have a about $650 billion from gas and electric I understand the administration’s de- choice to make. Those who are opposed companies and other businesses. The sire to make good on its promise of re- can try to block us or they can work first thing to note about this tax is forms. Most Americans understand with us to accomplish the critical that no one, not even administration that reforms are needed in health care, needs of the American people. I am officials, thinks this figure is even education, energy, and other areas. But confident it will be the latter. close to the amount that will actually they want the administration to fix the f be raised, and no one, not even admin- crisis in the financial sector first. Until RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY istration officials, believes that every we devote our full attention to that LEADER cent of it won’t be passed along to con- crisis, all other recovery efforts will be sumers. The President himself said in danger of coming undone. With the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- during the campaign that his cap-and- highest unemployment rate in 25 years, pore. The Republican leader is recog- trade plan would cause utility rates to nized. Americans simply don’t see the sense ‘‘skyrocket.’’ This is President Obama in raising taxes on small business. f himself who indicated during the cam- Americans from all walks of life—and A THREATENING BUDGET paign that he thought utility rates both political parties—are worried Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, under his plan would skyrocket. More about something else in the budget. Americans are beginning to get a sense recently, OMB Director Orszag publicly They don’t understand why charitable of what the administration’s budget reaffirmed the administration’s view organizations and the people they serve means to them. I think it is fair to say that cap and trade would increase en- should suffer in order to pay for new or that most of them are worried that it ergy taxes for everyone. This means expanded Government programs. Yet in spends too much, it taxes too much, that anybody who turns on a lightbulb an attempt to pay for all of its spend- and it borrows too much. will feel the pain. How bad will it be? ing proposals, the Obama budget re- At a moment when the economy is Well, researchers at MIT were a little duces the deductions for charitable do- already seriously challenged, when more specific than the President and nations. more people every day are struggling Mr. Orszag. These researchers at MIT At a time of economic distress, when just to make ends meet, and when the predicted that the proposal would cost more people than ever depend on these national debt is already staggeringly the average American household $3,128 organizations, the administration’s high, Americans were hoping for relief. a year. Now, this is the average Amer- budget reduces the incentive for people Instead, they got a budget that threat- ican household under this budget and to donate to them. This will affect do- ens the biggest tax hike in history, the energy taxes it will levy: $3,128 per nations everywhere, from the Salva- record spending, and massive debt. household. tion Army to the Juvenile Diabetes Re- This budget literally shocked a lot of Most of the utilities and manufactur- search Association, to educational non- people. Spending in this budget is so ers that take a direct hit from the en- profits such as universities and art mu- massive that some estimate more than ergy tax are big businesses, but what seums. According to one study, this 250,000 Government workers will be about the small businesses which ac- proposal can lead to $9 billion less in needed to spend it all. count for nearly three-fourths of all charitable giving each year. This is consistent with the approach new private sector jobs? Well, there is The proposal on charitable giving ap- the administration and the Democrat- a tax for them too. Thanks to an in- pears to follow the European model, ically controlled Congress have taken come tax hike on anyone earning more where people rely on the state to sup- since the beginning of the year. In just than $200,000 a year, many will see port cultural institutions. In Europe, 50 days since Inauguration Day, the their taxes go up significantly. Think people rely on the State to support cul- Democratically controlled Congress of a general contractor, a family res- tural institutions, but nonprofits voted to spend $1.2 trillion, which taurant, a startup technology firm. across our country are mobilizing works out to $24 billion a day or $1 bil- These are the engines of our economy. against the idea and for good reason: lion an hour—most of it borrowed—and They are struggling now. They will people who give money to these insti- we are doing this all, of course, in the struggle even more once these tax tutions should not be penalized for it, midst of a recession. hikes go into effect. and charities and nonprofits them- People across the country are under- Businesses with 20 or more employees selves certainly should not be expected standably nervous about this kind of get hit particularly hard. These busi- to subsidize the administration’s policy spending which won’t create the jobs nesses account for two-thirds of the dreams. that are promised and which will cause small business workforce. The Presi- These are hard times. Why make further tax hikes in the future to pay dent’s budget includes a tax increase them even harder? That is the question for all the borrowing. on more than half of those businesses. a lot of people who have seen this budg- Today, I wish to focus on the tax por- It is an iron rule of economics that et are beginning to ask. They are look- tion of the budget, the various tax taxes influence the decisions of those ing at the highest tax increase ever,

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These tax hikes are of the United States, have shoveled Government would have put in the precisely the wrong prescription at a $170 billion into to keep that company kind of money we put into it. time of already serious economic dis- afloat, makes me recall an old maxim. So the facts are now becoming clear tress. The Sessions maxim I call it—an- about some of the problems that go The budget plan has a number of nounced about 20 years ago when I was along with being in the private insur- fatal flaws. But in the midst of a finan- a Federal prosecutor attempting to ance business. The New York Times cial crisis, American workers don’t faithfully enforce complex Federal reg- and the Washington Post have pro- need another reason to fear they will ulations. I stated this: duced certain facts, with front-page lose their jobs, small business owners Oh, what a tangled web we create when stories yesterday, which, having read shouldn’t be further discouraged from first we start to regulate. them, caused me indigestion and pro- investing, and the Nation’s charities The more we proceed with policies voked me to write these remarks for should not have to fear that even less whereby the Government owns 80 per- which I ask you to forgive me for deliv- money will come in. This budget cent of the stock of a private insurance ering. But it makes me feel a bit bet- doesn’t just spend and borrow too company—or any company—especially ter. What was the purpose of this $170 bil- much, it taxes too much. after we poured $170 billion in to buy lion? The Washington Post said yester- f that stock—the more we are inevitably day that it was to ‘‘keep the company compelled to direct how the company AIG BONUSES afloat.’’ operates, to the point of deciding whom Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, re- Treasury Secretary Geithner has had their executives should be. We basi- garding the AIG bonuses, it is hard to a ‘‘difficult’’ conversation, according to cally picked Mr. Liddy, the chief exec- the papers, with AIG’s leader, Mr. Ed- overstate the outrage that I and others utive—plus what the company’s salary experienced over the weekend to learn ward M. Liddy, about Mr. Liddy’s plan scale should be or what aircraft it can to award $165 million in bonuses. Mr. that AIG, which already has received or cannot have or where and what kind nearly $175 billion from the American Liddy says he finds that awarding the of corporate retreat they might have or bonuses is ‘‘distasteful.’’ taxpayer, is planning to hand out $165 whether they can pay bonuses. million in bonuses to its employees. I am glad to hear him say that. But The size of our investment—‘‘invest- then he says they are required under This is absolutely appalling, and it is ment’’ is an absurd term when used to particularly disturbing given the fact previous contracts entered into before describe the reckless, gargantuan com- he came to AIG or was put there by that I sent a letter to Secretary mitment of our citizens’ money to AIG Paulson more than 5 months ago in- Secretary Paulson, President Bush’s puts us, the American people into the Secretary of the Treasury. sisting that if taxpayers were going to insurance business. Not long ago, I had help private businesses, then the Treas- As an aside, let me recall that had occasion to meet an official of a this matter been handled in the regular ury would need to use its ‘‘full enforce- healthy insurance company. In jest, I ment powers to prevent any misuse of order such as other businesses in Amer- asked him—it is not one of the biggest ica get handled; that is, by appeal to taxpayer funds.’’ in the country, but it is a sizable com- The administration needs to get the the bankruptcy court for protection pany with broad reach. I asked him and reorganization under chapter 11, message from the taxpayers on this how he liked competing with a com- issue. Going forward, the American which doesn’t shut down a company en- pany supported by the deep pockets of tirely but allows it to operate under people need to have complete certainty the taxpayers. He replied it wasn’t a that taxpayer money is not wasted in bankruptcy protection, such as Delta joke—AIG was their top competitor in Airlines, which is now performing very this particular manner again. It is my several economic or insurance mar- hope the administration will continue finely after saving itself through reor- kets. At bottom, we extract tax money ganization in bankruptcy, these bonus to press AIG on these bonuses and that from this businessman to keep afloat it will pursue any and all lawful means contracts would surely have been in- his reckless competitor. The size of validated. For how could any Federal of recovering these payments to the this commitment cannot and should judge hold that executives of the very people who were responsible for not be lost on us. The entire Alabama ‘‘same business unit that brought the creating this mess in the first place. State budget—we are about one-fiftieth Mr. President, I suggest the absence company to the brink of collapse last of the national population, a State well year,’’ said the New York Times, be of a quorum. and frugally run by our Governor, Bob The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- given bonuses. Riley—including the State education pore. The clerk will call the roll. This was a unit that did these reck- The legislative clerk proceeded to budget for all the schools and all the less insurance derivatives that got call the roll. teachers—thousands of schools— them into this fix. So why should they Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. President, I ask amounts to about $7 billion a year. So be given a bonus? unanimous consent that the order for how big is the $170 billion we put into This has certainly been an embar- the quorum call be rescinded. AIG? It is big. rassment to, I will say not so much to The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- The entire Federal highway budget, the company which has by contract ap- pore. Without objection, it is so or- for our interstate system and all the parently awarded these bonuses, but to dered. pork projects that get added to the Secretary Geithner and President Mr. SESSIONS. I thank the Chair. highway bill, and the billions we send Obama, who I understand himself, his f to the States for their highway pro- very self, today called for not awarding grams, since they are on an 80/20, 90/10 these bonuses. The President of the MORNING BUSINESS matched basis, with the majority Fed- United States is now deciding the The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- eral Government money, is $40 billion a bonus policy of what was once at least pore. Under the previous order, there year. So that $170 billion is a lot of a private company in the United will now be a period of morning busi- money. States. ness until 3 p.m., with Senators per- But here we are, and similar to that At bottom, our tax money is being mitted to speak therein for up to 10 unwise banker, we face the dilemma: used to pay bonuses to reward those re- minutes each. Do we pour more good money in to responsible for one of the most colossal The Senator from Alabama is recog- vive this corpse in a desperate effort to and reckless errors in the history of nized. recoup our improvident ‘‘investment’’? world finance.

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He was actu- discuss it a little bit and would come itself more and more deeply embedded ally placed in this position by the Gov- out and say: We will give you $60 bil- in a situation that it has no real abil- ernment to take over this unfortunate, lion. ity or capability to manage. disastrous company. However, he could How does this happen? I don’t know. You see, we now own about 80 percent not resist one parting shot to his over- I think we have a right as Americans of AIG. It is ours—yours and mine. Who lords, noting that he could not run to be concerned—very concerned— then is to run AIG? Secretary ‘‘the AIG businesses—which are now about the recklessness on Wall Street Geithner? I like to call these high fi- being operated principally on behalf of that caused a major financial catas- nance guys such as Mr. Geithner ‘‘mas- the American taxpayers—if employees trophe for the country. And we need to ters of the universe.’’ He is now return- believe their compensation is subject be worried that our attempt in panic, I ing from Europe where he upbraided to continued and arbitrary adjustment think, to fix it may cause more prob- the Governments of France and Ger- by the U.S. Treasury.’’ lems for our historical heritage of free many for not spending more money and He says right there he is operating enterprise. A lot of people have begun for not invading deeper into the private this company on behalf of the Amer- to think about it. Although when I talk sector and for not going into debt even ican taxpayers, but he cannot do so if with people in my home State, they more deeply to, as he would say, I the Secretary of Treasury is going to think about it. They say: What are you guess, stimulate the economy. He tell him what kind of employment pol- guys doing? My 88-year-old great-aunt, thinks they ought to spend more and icy he should execute. That was in the whose eyes are failing and she cannot borrow more, and they are spending paper yesterday. Apparently he wrote read now, but she tries to keep up on more and borrowing a lot. He thinks that letter Saturday. things, she put her hand on my arm a they should be spending more and bor- Oh, what a tangled web we create. few weeks ago and said: Buddy—she rowing more and they should be like Will Secretary Geithner now set policy calls me ‘‘Buddy’’—ya’ll don’t know us. on insurance premiums? We own the what you’re doing up there, do you? I suspect running AIG must be a bit company. Why can’t the Government She was so sympathetic. That is what distracting even for our fine master of cut everybody’s premium? Maybe we most American people think and are the universe because he has taken on could order the premiums to be low- probably right. the duty of advising not only the Presi- ered. We own 80 percent. That would be I will say again, if your Government, dent and our Congress on how to fix the a nice stimulus, wouldn’t it, lower our Government had acted properly, we economy, but he is now advising our everybody’s premiums? That is a stim- would have allowed this company to go big government friends in Europe who ulus we have not tried yet. forward in a controlled, orderly process are concerned about taking on more Probably not. He is too busy running through reorganization under chapter debt. The world is his parish, it seems. the world and advising the French and 11, and we would not have this bonus All the while, the proud people of the the Germans on how to conduct their embarrassment. Those folks would United States, inheritors of a great business and telling them they need to have been ordered to tell the truth in a tradition of free enterprise and limited borrow more money. well-equipped Federal court process, Government, watched this spectacle What is going to happen now that the and there would have been no reason unfold in total mortification. President and Mr. Geithner have de- for the healthy parts of AIG to fail at The irony of these events, the histor- manded that the bonuses be stopped? all. They are being pulled down by the ical dissonance of these acts of the This is pretty interesting now. What is bad part. They could have then dealt United States pushing Europe further going to happen? The people at AIG with that toxic part of the company in toward socialism, seems to be lost on said they have to award the bonuses or a more responsible way, in a more pub- our smiling and brilliant young Sec- they will be sued. Are they going to sue lic way, in a bankruptcy court before a retary. Secretary Geithner and the President Federal judge who took testimony We are in a very difficult period fi- if the bonuses do not get awarded? under oath and could put people in jail nancially, and there is only a limited I suggest it is plainly obvious that who deserve to go to jail. number of actions prudent govern- the folks who destroyed the financial I conclude with this. This spectacular ments can take to fix it. But still in soundness of AIG should not in any spasm should be a vivid warning to the campaign mode, our Secretary declares just world get a bonus. The only thing danger of arrogance by those would-be it is the fault of the previous adminis- free they may deserve is a free lunch masters of the universe. You are not as tration, and he promises that the new and a free room in the Bastille. smart as you think you are. Market President will lead us out of it with One thing we know: Much of this forces ultimately control in the real bold action. money has passed through AIG to the world. Nothing comes from nothing. Our Secretary of the Treasury is now benefit of other corporate interests. Debts must be paid. calling Mr. Liddy at AIG and the paper But one thing we don’t know com- Secretaries Paulson and Geithner re- said ‘‘demands’’—that he apparently pletely is who they are, although to- mind me of a man in an airplane off the violate contracts requiring these bo- day’s paper had some of them listed. gulf coast throwing out dry ice in an nuses. I submit it is not so much be- The biggest one getting $12 billion plus, attempt to prevent a hurricane. Do you cause of the financial significance of almost twice the total 1-year funding remember that? Or of Mr. Ludd in Eng- these bonuses, but because it is an em- for the State of Alabama, was Goldman land taking a sledgehammer to the barrassment politically. You see, the Sachs—Secretary Paulson’s company weaving looms of England to stop the populace is getting a bit aroused about he left to join the Government and be Industrial Revolution. I have seen the this, and the focus of their anger might Secretary of the Treasury. They were force of real hurricanes. We are now cease to fall on the last administration the biggest ‘‘bailoutee’’ of this whole seeing the force of a financial hurri- and begin to fall on Secretary Geithner mess. We are going to find out more cane, and a lot of people are getting and his boss. about that. But it doesn’t look good to hurt. The ‘‘bonus’’ dustup in one sense was me. I don’t like this whole process. But there is good news, really there theater, flim flummery, Things were decided in secret with- is. Hurricanes do pass. We will recover. mountebankery, of course. Apparently out any kind of hearing, so far as I can The greatest danger, though, is that in in accordance with contracts and law, tell, without in-depth taking of testi- this time of trouble, our Government,

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in a burst of overreach, will perma- nationally significant battlefields and asso- KOWSKI, who is the ranking member on nently damage the great heritage of ciated sites of the Revolutionary War and the Energy Committee with me in this free enterprise, ordered liberty, and the War of 1812, and for other purposes. Congress, and also Senator CRAPO, for limited Government that has made this The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- their assistance with this provision. the freest, most productive economy in ator from New Mexico is recognized. With this clarification, I believe all the history of the world. Why would we Mr. BINGAMAN. Madam President, interested parties now agree that the want to be lecturing France on how to earlier this year, the Senate passed S. bill is clear that access for recreational conduct an economy by telling them 22, which is the Omnibus Public Lands hunting, fishing, and trapping is not af- they should be a bigger, more oppres- Management Act, a collection of over fected by the river, trail, or heritage sive government than they already 160 bills primarily from the Committee area designations. are? on Energy and Natural Resources. As we noted before, the Omnibus I will certainly meet my colleagues After a week of debate, the Senate Public Land Management Act is collec- in a bipartisan effort to work to miti- passed S. 22 by a vote of 73 to 21. That tively one of the most significant con- gate the economic and emotional pain vote occurred on January 15. servation bills to be considered by the we are now suffering. But if bipartisan- Unfortunately, the House of Rep- Senate in this past decade. It will re- ship means acquiescing in the wildest resentatives has not yet passed S. 22. In sult in the addition of over 2 million of economic chimeras that we have re- an effort to facilitate consideration of new acres of the National Wilderness cently followed, count me out. If it this package of bills in the other body, Preservation System. It will designate means changing the legal and eco- it is my hope that we will be able to at- three new units to the National Park nomic order that, through ups and tach the omnibus lands package to an- System, and it enlarges the boundaries downs, has formed the moral basis of other bill that has already passed the of several existing parks. It creates a the American dream and served us so House of Representatives and send it new national monument and three new well, count me out. back where, hopefully, it can be quick- national conservation areas. It adds Oh, we are told by our leaders—and ly approved. over 1,000 new miles to the National Mr. Geithner said this at the Budget As the first step of this process this Wild and Scenic Rivers System and Committee hearing when I asked him a afternoon, the Senate will vote on over 2,800 miles of new trails that will few days ago—we would never want to whether to invoke cloture on the mo- be part of the National Trails System. do that. We are committed to the tion to proceed to H.R. 146, which is the It establishes in law the Bureau of American heritage of economic order, Revolutionary War and War of 1812 Land Management’s National Land- he said. But one writer noted that at a Battlefield Protection Act. If cloture is scape Conservation System that pro- time of rapid erosion of a nation’s clas- invoked on the motion to proceed to tects over 1.2 million acres of the Wyo- sical values, the leaders are most vocif- that bill, and once we are on that bill, ming Range. erous in proclaiming their adherence to it is my intention to offer a substitute In addition, the Omnibus Public Land them. amendment that will essentially sub- Management Act authorizes numerous Count me a skeptic. I am watching stitute the text of S. 22 as passed by land exchanges and conveyances to what is being done, not what is being the Senate. help local communities throughout the said. For me and for those who love lib- In addition to making a few technical West. It includes the Forest Landscape erty, limited Government, and free en- corrections to the previously passed Restoration Act, which will help under- terprise, these actions that are occur- bill text, the amendment incorporates take collaborative landscape-scale res- ring today are troubling and fright- one change that was not in the under- toration projects to help reduce both ening indeed. lying Senate bill when it was pre- future fire risk and fire-associated I yield the floor, and I suggest the ab- viously passed. costs. It incorporates over 30 bills sence of a quorum. Following Senate passage of S. 22, I which will help address critical water The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- understand that some Members in the resource needs at both the national and pore. The clerk will call the roll. House of Representatives expressed local level. It authorizes several stud- The legislative clerk proceeded to concern that the portion of the bill per- ies to help communities better under- call the roll. taining to Wild and Scenic Rivers and stand their local water supplies and the Mr. BINGAMAN. Madam President, I National Trails and National Heritage best way to meet future water needs, ask unanimous consent the order for Areas might somehow be construed to and it includes several authorizations the quorum call be rescinded. limit access for authorized hunting, for local and regional water projects The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. fishing, and trapping activities. While I that enhance water use efficiencies, ad- HAGAN) Without objection, it is so or- am confident the Senate bill in no way dress water infrastructure needs, and dered. restricts those activities, in an at- help provide sustainable water supplies Mr. BINGAMAN. What is the busi- tempt to make this completely clear, to rural communities. ness before the Senate? the substitute amendment I will pro- Finally, the bill will ratify three important water settlements—settle- f pose to offer, if we are able to do that, adds a provision in title V which covers ments in California, Nevada, and New CONCLUSION OF MORNING Wild and Scenic Rivers and National Mexico. These settlements will resolve BUSINESS Trails language designations. The new literally decades of litigation between The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning language states that: the affected States, Indian tribes, agri- business is closed. Nothing in this title shall be construed as cultural and municipal water users, f affecting access for recreational activities and environmental interests. otherwise allowed by law or regulation, in- The previous vote on S. 22 was 73 REVOLUTIONARY WAR AND WAR cluding hunting, fishing, or trapping. Senators voting to pass the bill—evi- OF 1812 BATTLEFIELD PROTEC- Furthermore: dence of the strong bipartisan support TION ACT—MOTION TO PROCEED Nothing in this title shall be construed as for this package. Invoking cloture this The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under affecting the authority, jurisdiction, or re- afternoon on the motion to proceed to the previous order, the Senate will responsibility of the several States to manage, H.R. 146 is the first step necessary to sume consideration of the motion to control or regulate fish and resident wildlife move the Omnibus Public Land Man- proceed to H.R. 146, which the clerk under State law or regulations, including the agement Act toward enactment into will report. regulation of hunting, fishing, and trapping. law. The bill clerk read as follows: The amendment adds similar lan- In closing, I would like to, of course, A motion to proceed to the bill H.R. 146, to guage in title VIII, which is the title thank our majority leader, Senator establish a battlefield acquisition grant pro- designating National Heritage Areas. I REID, for his continued commitment to gram for the acquisition and protection of would like to thank Senator MUR- pass this bill. I urge my colleagues to

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7306 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 support invoking cloture on the motion payer money to upwards of $170 billion, It now seems we have to teach ethics to proceed when we have that vote at and if we had known that money was classes, not only in our elementary and 5:30 today. going to prop up other financial insti- secondary schools, but all the way in I yield the floor and suggest the ab- tutions to which they had an economic our universities now. What is it that sence of a quorum. obligation, many of those financial in- has gotten our leadership so askew The PRESIDING OFFICER. The stitutions across the world, would we they cannot get beyond their own clerk will call the roll. have done it? Well, I doubt we would blinders to see what they are doing and The bill clerk proceeded to call the have because $85 billion was big how it is affecting everybody else? roll. enough, but now closing in on $170 bil- Now, it is no—I was going to say it is Mr. NELSON of Florida. I ask unani- lion of taxpayer money, I don’t think no secret, but it is not a secret, it is mous consent that the order for the we would have agreed to that. I sure just a fact that I have had the privilege quorum call be rescinded. don’t think we would have agreed if we of being a public servant virtually all The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without knew that money was going to—now of my adult life. When I was a kid objection, it is so ordered. get this—almost $13 billion to Goldman growing up, that was one of the highest Mr. NELSON of Florida. I ask unani- Sachs; to a French financial company callings for a person. I am starting to mous consent to speak as in morning almost $12 billion, Societe Generale; al- see some of that rekindled in young business. most $12 billion—all of this taxpayer people now. But, my goodness, when The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without money—to Deutsche Bank of Germany; they hear about all of this stuff—banks objection, it is so ordered. $8.5 billion to Barclays; Merrill Lynch, and bankers are public servants. They AIG which eventually bit the dust, $6.8 bil- are entrusted with the people’s money, Mr. NELSON of Florida. Madam lion; Bank of America, which is in deep to use it and invest it wisely, and then President, every time I see you sitting trouble right now, $5.2 billion, in deep to be accountable for what happens to in the presiding chair, I can’t help but trouble because they acquired Merrill it. We elected officials are not the only think how proud your uncle, the late Lynch; UBS, $5 billion—the list goes on public servants. There are public serv- senior Senator from Florida and the through DNP, HSBC, Citigroup, ants in every walk of life. If you are a late former Governor of Florida, Calyon, Dresdner Kleinwort, Wachovia, teacher, if you are a doctor, a nurse— Lawten Chiles—your uncle, since your ING, Morgan Stanley, and Bank of whatever your field—you are a public mom was Lawton’s sister—how proud Montreal. servant, and you owe a responsibility he would be and what an enormously That is American taxpayers’ hard- and accountability to the society and wonderful contribution and addition earned money that was going to pay off the country that has given you the op- you are to the Senate. Thank you for those insurance policies called credit portunities you have. That seems to be the recognition. default swaps that were a kind of guar- going out of control. It is with a heavy heart that I have antee, a derivative that if they made a We read another story a couple days to speak on this continuing saga of wrong bet, they would be protected by ago. Bank of America bit off something Wall Street, the continuing saga that that insurance company. And lo and they could not chew, which was Merrill the executives of big corporations in behold, that insurance company, the Lynch. They said they were duped. this country—and I am not talking full weight and credit and finances of Merrill Lynch gave a whole bunch of about all corporations but a limited the United States Government—re: the bonuses. The CEO of Bank of America, number of corporations with high-fly- American taxpayer—is going in, you which bought Merrill Lynch, said he ing executives who, in the midst of us can’t say it with any other word, to told them not to, and yet they did any- trying to work out this economic dev- bail out these companies. way. Well, since when did the captain astation we are in, do not understand Would we, the Senate, had we known of the ship not control the ship? that what they do and what they say, $170 billion was going to bail out AIG, And, oh, by the way, are the CEOs of whether it is reality, has perception to and of that money what I just listed these institutions that are receiving it. As a result, they have angered a lot was going to these corporations around taxpayer money not reading the pa- of people. the globe, half of which are foreign cor- pers? Did they not hear about the A lot of that anger, that disbelief, porations? I don’t think we would. backlash as to the three executives of that ‘‘oh my’’ moment comes when you Is it any wonder people are upset? Is the Detroit Big Three automakers hear about what we heard over the it any wonder the President of the when they came to testify for a bailout weekend about AIG, American Insur- United States has just had a press con- of Federal taxpayer money, and they ance Group, one of the largest insur- ference today saying he wants the Sec- all came in their private jets? There ance companies in the world, which got retary of the Treasury to go back to was so much scorn and derision. They into trouble. Last fall, we were pre- find out what they can do to stop those could have, of course, gotten on one of sented with what in effect became an bonuses from being paid or to get them the three jets. They seemed to learn $85 billion bailout. I will never forget, back if they have already been paid? the lessons, so the next time they came as the new Secretary of the Treasury And, oh, by the way, why did AIG, last to Congress asking for a bailout again, was coming through the confirmation fall, when it made all of these pay- they drove their own vehicles. process and the members of the Fi- ments, refuse to identify the individual Well, what happened to the CEO of nance Committee had a chance to talk financial institutions it was giving the Bank of America, who has taken $45 to him, I asked him: Why did we let money to? It all the more adds insult billion of taxpayer money? Of course, Lehman Brothers go down and yet we to injury. No wonder people are so mad he is a busy man and very talented, but propped up AIG? The answer was that and upset. he flies his Gulfstream V for a meeting AIG was too big, the hole was too big, Now, I just came from a townhall in New York. It is perception. And that that it would have had too many rami- meeting in Ocoee, FL. It is little town perception—I am not jumping on just fications across the global marketplace west of Orlando. A lot of the towns’ him, I am trying to get people to un- to let it go down, whereas contrasted city councils, mayors in that region of derstand, when you are dealing with with Lehman Brothers, the financial west Orange County—the Chamber of the public’s wheel, the public’s busi- hole was too big that it just simply Commerce—all came today. I can tell ness—and that certainly includes tax- could not be repaired. you, this was on their mind. But they payer money—then you have to be re- Originally, they were talking about want to know something more. They sponsible and accountable. It seems $40 or $50 billion to bail out AIG. Then want to know what has happened to somehow this goes over people’s head. it became $85 billion. If we had known old-fashioned right and wrong? What Well, we all make mistakes. Cer- that $85 billion, when we first agreed to has happened to old-fashioned ethics? tainly this Senator has made mistakes. let this happen last fall, if we had When this Senator went to high One of the things about the American known that was going to go in tax- school, we did not have ethics classes. people is, they are a forgiving people. If

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7307 someone, when they make a mistake, Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, depression, it started to get out of the will admit it, people are very willing to I ask unanimous consent that Senator depression, and then went back into de- give a person a second chance. KYL and I be permitted to engage in a pression until World War II, largely be- When you keep names secret, when colloquy for 20 minutes, and that I be cause of this increase in taxes. The you take billions and tens of billions of informed when we have 2 minutes left. combination of the Smoot-Hawley tar- dollars of Federal taxpayer money, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without iffs—which are an increase in taxes of a when you are insensitive to the percep- objection, it is so ordered. different kind—and the income tax tion of the high-flying style of life you Mr. ALEXANDER. Thank you, rates plunged the country back into are living, the American public is not Madam President. the Depression. very forgiving. That is what has hap- PRESIDENT OBAMA’S BUDGET If I could respond to the point about pened over the weekend. That is what Madam President, President Obama’s President Kennedy, he did exactly the happened in that townhall meeting of budget raises taxes by $1.4 trillion over opposite. We were in the doldrums, and mine today in Ocoee, FL. 10 years. It is the largest tax increase he proposed, after he was elected in That is another reason the President in history, right in the middle of a re- 1960, that we actually reduce the cap- has again stood up and spoken out and cession—a recession we all hope we can ital gains tax. Now, I remember this said: We are going to stop this. Why do get out of soon. because I was taking a course in eco- we want to stop it? Because we all seek I have with me today on the Senate nomics at the University of Arizona at the same goal; that is, the resuscita- floor my colleague Senator JON KYL, a the time and I wrote a paper on this. I tion of our economy, to get the banks member of the Finance Committee, went home, I believe it was over the lending again so dollars can go out to who is, in our party, at least, and cer- Christmas recess, and I talked to my businesses and small businesses, so tainly within the entire Senate, one of father about it. I said: President Ken- they can employ people and reverse the the experts on taxation and jobs and nedy is a Democrat, I am a Republican, soaring unemployment rate. That is progrowth Government policies. but I think he is doing the right thing. the goal: to get America back to work, I say to Senator KYL, I was looking My father said: He is doing the right to get America moving forward again through the history books a little bit thing. I remember writing that in the economically. this weekend. I noticed President Hoo- paper and my professor was kind of It is my hope I do not have to have ver, in 1932, raised taxes. He, in the scratching his head because he looked the kind of townhall meeting where Revenue Act of 1932, raised taxes across at it in a more political way. Yet if you people are upset as they were today the board and raised the top tax rate look at it in a purely economic point of and as they were over the weekend in from 25 percent to 63 percent. That was view, when the economy is not doing so the meetings. at a time when the unemployment rate well, the last thing you want to do is to SPACE SHUTTLE LAUNCH was about 23 percent in this country. raise tax rates. In fact, you can do a lot There was one good thing I did at- The effects of the 1932 tax increase of good by reducing taxes, which is tend over the weekend. I saw Govern- were income tax revenues went down what Kennedy did, and it had a very ment dollars at work, as the space and the Federal deficit went up and un- profound and positive impact. Those shuttle soared into the night sky at employment stayed up all the way to are the lessons history teaches. Cape Canaveral at the Kennedy Space 1940, when it was still 15 percent. Mr. ALEXANDER. I believe there is Center. That was one of the most beau- But President Kennedy, of course a another lesson, too, if we look back 40 tiful launches I have ever seen. It was Democratic President, came along years to October of 1969. It sounds very right on time. Of course, it had had its after a little bit of a sluggish period of good to say we are going to tax the delays, but that is part of the space time, and he cut taxes in a variety of rich people. There are just a few of program, making sure when you get ways and tax revenues went up. Presi- them; they are not you. We are going down to T minus zero and those solid dent Reagan came in a few years later, to take their money. You will be all rocket boosters light off, you have it after a difficult time in the late 1970s, right. That is exactly what happened in right. which I remember very well, and he re- 1969. That was the last time we had a Indeed, NASA had it right, and they duced taxes and tax revenues went up. millionaires tax—that is what they gave a little lift to the American peo- So I wonder what the lessons in his- called it—because they found 155 people ple last night with that display of tory are. If we are in the middle of a re- who had paid no income taxes, so they power: almost 7 million pounds of cession and people are struggling for passed the millionaires tax. We have thrust, straight up, and then arching jobs—and in the Hoover and Kennedy another name for it today; it is called over into a low Earth orbit. and Reagan administrations we learned the alternative minimum tax. This Those astronauts now will go out and that tax increases often reduce reve- year, if Congress did not act, it would take another big section of the truss, nues and impose costs—what is the les- have taxed 28 million Americans. It attach it to the Space Station, and son in history for the Obama budget? started out to catch 155 rich Americans then install the final solar arrays so Mr. KYL. Madam President, I would and now could catch 28 million, includ- that the International Space Station say to my friend from Tennessee, of ing a lot of the middle class. will be up and powered with the elec- course, he knows the answer, having Mr. KYL. Madam President, I would tricity it needs for all of the scientific been a great student of history himself. say to my colleague that is exactly experimentation that is going to be If anyone would like to get one of the right. That is one of the reasons why in done on the International Space Sta- definitive works on this, it is a book this so-called stimulus package, a 1- tion, which has been designated a na- called ‘‘The Forgotten Man.’’ The au- year relief from the alternative min- tional laboratory of the United States. thor is Amity Shlaes. It is very well imum tax was included because we That was a moment of joy in an oth- written. One of the key points it makes knew that the net was now casting so erwise time of difficult economic cir- is precisely the historical point that wide it would incorporate 20-plus mil- cumstances. Madam President, I yield the floor. my colleague from Tennessee makes; lion people into the category of mil- I suggest the absence of a quorum. namely, that about the time the lionaires—people who made $50,000; The PRESIDING OFFICER. The United States began to come out of the $60,000; $70,000. The problem was the clerk will call the roll. Depression, President Roosevelt’s view rates were never indexed for inflation, The bill clerk proceeded to call the was it was time to try to balance the so what only caught millionaires at roll. budget and as a result—as Hoover had one time is now catching decidedly Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, tried to do when he increased taxes and middle-class taxpayers. I ask unanimous consent that the order the economy tanked, which is exactly The same thing could easily be done for the quorum call be rescinded. what happened again. So we didn’t just with the proposals that the administra- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without have one Great Depression; we had a tion has in the budget—a budget which, objection, it is so ordered. period of time when our country was in as we discussed last week, spends too

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7308 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 much, taxes too much, and it borrows Just in December of last year, 10 per- this same problem. It is not just the too much. We think we ought to spend cent of customers for Nashville Elec- energy tax in this budget that we are less, tax less, and borrow less, which is tric Service said they couldn’t pay concerned about; it is also a variety of one of the reasons we think the tax their electric bills, even with TVA’s tax policies that will clearly and dra- portions of the Obama budget are relatively low rates. So whatever the matically impact business—again, not wrong. views are on cap-and-trade—and there what you want to do at a time of a re- Mr. ALEXANDER. One of the tax are many views even within our con- cession. For example, it heavily taxes portions has to do with what Senator ference: Our Presidential nominee, American corporations that have oper- GREGG, the Senator from New Hamp- JOHN MCCAIN, supported cap-and-trade, ations overseas. Now, we want to com- shire, who is our ranking Republican and I support a limited one but not in pete overseas. We don’t want to just on the Budget Committee, calls the na- the middle of a recession—the way to have American businesses here in tional sales tax on electricity, a tax deal with a recession is not more taxes. America. Anybody who would go over- that would be a so-called cap-and-trade Mr. KYL. Madam President, if I could seas to do business would be heavily system tax. also talk about some of the other ef- taxed here. That will have a dramatic Mr. KYL. Madam President, that is fects of this. The problem with this impact on our exports, which have been exactly right. kind of an energy tax is that when peo- a big part of our economy and on our Mr. ALEXANDER. It doesn’t just get ple use less energy, obviously they buy gross domestic product in general. rich people. less, they travel less, and all of this Another thing it does at this time, Mr. KYL. No. Madam President, this curtails economic activity. It has been which is dead wrong, is to indirectly is the so-called mandatory cap-and- estimated the gross domestic product impose a much higher cost on obtain- trade system that is included within of the United States would be roughly ing a mortgage because it limits the the budget under which the Govern- 1 percent lower at the end of 2014 and amount of mortgage interest deduc- ment would set how much businesses 2.6 percent lower by 2030, just by hav- tion. One of the things that has en- could produce in the way of carbon by ing to pay this tax. As economic activ- abled millions and millions of Ameri- their activity, and then, of course, they ity would slow, employers wouldn’t cans to own their own home is because we have favorable tax treatment. They would pass the costs of this limitation need to hire as many workers. In fact, can take the mortgage interest deduc- onto their customers. Now, that only it is estimated that employers would tion as a deduction from their Federal applies to people who either directly create 850,000 fewer jobs by 2014 and 3 income taxes. So why would we limit use energy, such as electricity or gaso- million fewer jobs by 2030. The effect the amount of deduction for your home line or you buy something that has on household income would be dra- mortgage, especially at this time when been made with energy. I think that matic. It would reduce, on average, we are trying to encourage more people covers just about everybody. household income adjusted for infla- to buy homes and we don’t want banks The point is, it will take, from every tion by $1,000 in 2014 and $4,000 by 2030. to end up with more bad loans on their American family, at least $800 a year, Of course, it is also a problem because which is the amount of the so-called books. not everyone will bear the same bur- Then, in addition, there are other tax tax cut the President—I have forgotten den, and it is a very regressive tax, rates that are allowed to increase rath- what he calls that in the budget. given the fact that people at a lower er than to continue where they are, and Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, economic income level have to pay a these are the rates on the income tax I think he calls it the Making Work higher percentage of their family infor the top two marginal rate cat- Pay credit. come for energy than do higher income egories. These are exactly the people Mr. KYL. That is correct, the Make folks. who are reporting small business in- Work Pay Act, which is actually noth- So for a lot of different reasons, this come. We know small businesses create ing more than a spending program in is a very bad idea, and as my colleague up to 80 percent of the jobs in the econ- the guise of a tax cut. But whatever from Tennessee points out, it is a ter- omy, so there again, directly imposing that gives back to people, it only cov- rible idea in the middle of a recession. a greater burden on the people who run ers what has been taken from them in Mr. ALEXANDER. Our responsibility and operate the small businesses in this energy tax, and, in fact, that is as the minority party is often to hold this country; precisely the group who just the beginning. The energy tax, by the administration accountable, to needs to have more income in order to all accounts, will explode to a far point out the other side of things, and hire more people so we don’t have as greater burden on every family than an to oppose things we think are wrong. many unemployed. initial burden of 800 bucks. Our responsibility also is to say what In all these ways, the budget is going Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, we are for. This week during the debate to directly negatively impact our eco- it is not entirely clear how much a cap- and over the next couple weeks you nomic situation at exactly the wrong and-trade system on the entire econ- will hear Republicans offering different time. omy will raise. The President esti- ideas for a clean energy agenda, one Mr. ALEXANDER. Well, the Senator mates in his budget $646 billion over 10 that begins with conservation, on from Arizona brings up a very good years. Some observers think that is which most of us agree. You will hear point, which is the limitation on de- low; that it might be $60, $80, $100, $120 ideas including building 100 new nu- ductions people might take. Now, billion or even more over 10 years. The clear powerplants, that is carbon free. again, that sounds pretty good because cap-and-trade system—the way of lim- You will hear ideas about finding more one may say: Well, that applies just to iting the use of carbon in the econ- natural gas, that is low carbon and someone with a lot of money, but let’s omy—is the subject of a very impor- using plug-in electric cars, which we think about this for a minute. That tant debate we should be having in the can plug in at night and we wouldn’t means charitable deductions in the Senate. For the whole 6 years I have have to build any more powerplants. So United States would not receive the been in the Senate, I have rec- we could move toward more American same sort of treatment under President ommended a cap-and-trade system just energy, as clean as possible and as fast Obama’s plan that they do today. So for powerplants, not for the whole as possible, but what we want to re- we take a college such as Maryville economy. I see the distinguished Sen- member—and this doesn’t seem to be College in my hometown, which is a ator from New Mexico on the floor who remembered in the budget—is to do so small Presbyterian college that doesn’t is chairman of the Energy Committee. at as low a cost as possible because have a very large endowment; a faith- He has had his own bill there. But our people are hurting today because of un- based college. It is having a tough time point would be in the middle of a reces- employment and high costs and a lack in the economy anyway. Then we come sion, you don’t put on top of the Amer- of jobs. along and we say to people to whom it ican people a new tax on electric bills Mr. KYL. Madam President, let me might turn for charitable contribu- and gasoline purchases. turn to a slightly different aspect of tions: Sorry, we are going to take away

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7309 the incentive that Americans have to alleged that the people at the top end axis since Arthur Laffer drew his famous make charitable contributions to the of our economy are making more curve on a napkin in the mid-1970s. Laffer’s colleges, to the Boy Scouts, to the Girl money than they should. was an economic argument for lowering tax Scouts, to the pro-life groups, to the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- rates for everyone. Piketty-Saez is a moral ators have 2 minutes. argument for raising taxes on the rich. pro-choice groups, to all sorts of asso- As described in Mr. Obama’s budget, these ciations in America that are having a Mr. KYL. The Senator from Ten- two economists have shown that by the end hard time raising money for charitable nessee can close after I finish my point. of 2004, the top 1% of taxpayers ‘‘took home’’ activities, and we are going to make it The point is, this is not the purpose more than 22% of total national income. that much harder. of tax policy. The purpose of tax policy This trend, Fig. 9 notes, began during the This country leads the world in should be to raise the amount of money Reagan presidency, skyrocketed through the terms of charitable contributions. we need, and need legitimately, to run Clinton years, dipped after George Bush beat Typically, about 2 percent of our in- the Federal Government, and do so as Al Gore, then marched upward. Widening its fairly as possible. own definition of money-grubbers, the budg- come goes to charitable contributions. et says the top 10% of households ‘‘held’’ 70% No other country in the world has that As they point out here, while the top 1 percent of earners in our country has of total wealth. sort of tradition of giving, and in the Alan Reynolds of the Cato Institute criti- middle of a recession we would limit earned 22 percent of the income, they cized the Piketty-Saez study on these pages charitable contributions to nonprofit pay 40 percent of the Federal taxes. in October 2007. Whatever its merits, their organizations who are already strug- The people who would get the brunt of ‘‘Top 1%’’ chart has become a totemic obses- gling. the tax—those making above $200,000— sion in progressive policy circles. Madam President, we have been ask- pay 60 percent of the Federal income Turn to page five of Mr. Obama’s federal taxes in America. One wonders why a budget, and one may read these coming the question: Why would someone mentaries on the top 1% datum: who is interested in seeing an economic group that pays 60 percent of the taxes already and only comprises 2 percent of ‘‘While middle-class families have been recovery propose these kinds of tax playing by the rules, living up to their re- policies—to limit charitable deduc- our population is being unfairly treat- sponsibilities as neighbors and citizens, tions, limit the deduction on home ed. As a result of the Bush tax policy, those at commanding heights of our econ- mortgages, punish American compa- they are actually paying a higher per- omy have not.’’ nies doing business overseas, and put a centage of income taxes than they did ‘‘Prudent investments in education, clean mandatory energy tax on the American before the Bush tax cuts went into ef- energy, health care and infrastructure were fect. I think maybe that is the answer sacrificed for huge tax cuts for the wealthy people? and well-connected.’’ All of these are policies that don’t to the question. If so, it is very dis- tressing. ‘‘There’s nothing wrong with making seem to make any sense. As my col- money, but there is something wrong when league pointed out in the very begin- Mr. ALEXANDER. I thank the Sen- we allow the playing field to be tilted so far ning, they run opposite to the lessons ator. I ask unanimous consent for 30 in the favor of so few. . . . It’s a legacy of ir- we have learned historically. Why seconds to conclude. responsibility, and it is our duty to change would this be done? It turns out that a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without it.’’ very interesting op-ed in the Wall objection, it is so ordered. Mr. Obama made clear in the campaign his Mr. KYL. Madam President, before intention to raise taxes on this income class Street Journal last Thursday, March his conclusion, I ask unanimous con- by letting the Bush tax cuts expire. What is 12, may have the answer. It was written sent to have the op-ed I referred to be becoming clearer as his presidency unfolds is by Daniel Henninger. It is called ‘‘The printed in the RECORD. that something deeper is underway here than Obama Rosetta Stone.’’ It is said that There being no objection, the mate- merely using higher taxes to fund his policy goals in health, education and energy. the Rosetta Stone is where you go to rial was ordered to be printed in the get the answer to the great mystery of The ‘‘top 1%’’ isn’t just going to pay for RECORD, as follows: life. The Rosetta Stone in the Obama these policies. Many of them would assent to [From the Wall Street Journal, Mar. 12, 2009] budget Mr. Henninger finds is on page that. The rancorous language used to de- HE BAMA OSETTA TONE scribe these taxpayers makes it clear that as 5 of the budget. This, I think, provides T O R S (By Daniel Henninger) a matter of public policy they will be made the clue to why all of these negative to ‘‘pay for’’ the fact of their weaith—no policies are being introduced into the Barack Obama has written two famous, widely read books of autobiography— matter how many of them worked honestly budget at this time. ‘‘Dreams from My Father’’ and ‘‘The Audac- and honorably to produce it. No Democratic Let me quote from page 5 of the Fed- ity of Hope.’’ Let me introduce his third, a president in 60 years has been this explicit. eral budget. He is referring to the book that will touch everyone’s life: ‘‘A New Complaints have emerged recently, on the amount of income the top 1 percent of Era of Responsibility: Renewing America’s right and left, that the $787 billion stimulus earners in our country makes: Promise. The President’s Budget and Fiscal bill will produce less growth and jobs than Preview’’ (Government Printing Office, 141 planned because too much of it goes to social While middle-class families have been programs and transfer payments, or ‘‘weak’’ playing by the rules, living up to their re- pages, $26; free on the Web). This is the U.S. budget for laymen, and it’s a must read. Keynesian stimulus. The administration’s sponsibilities as neighbors and citizens, Romer-Bernstein study on the stimulus esti- those at the commanding heights of our Turn immediately to page 11. There sits a chart called FIGURE 9. This is the Rosetta mated by the end of next year it would in- economy have not. crease jobs by 3.6 million and GDP by 3.7%. Prudent investments in education, clean Stone to the presidential mind of Barack Obama. Memorize Figure 9, and you will One of the first technical examinations of energy, health care and infrastructure were the Romer-Bernstein projections has been re- sacrificed for huge tax cuts for the wealthy never be confused. Not happy, perhaps, but not confused. leased by Hoover Institution economists and well-connected. John Cogan and John Taylor, and German There’s nothing wrong with making One finds many charts in a federal budget, most attributed to such deep mines of data economists Tobias Cwik and Volker Wieland. money, but there is something wrong when They conclude that the growth and jobs we allow the playing field to be tilted so far as the Census Bureau or the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The one on page 11 is attributed stimulus will be only one-sixth what the ad- in the favor of so few. . . .It’s a legacy of ir- ministration predicts. In part, this is be- responsibility, and it is our duty to change to ‘‘Piketty and Saez.’’ Either you know instantly what ‘‘Piketty cause people anticipate that the spending it. and Saez’’ means, or you don’t. If you do, burst will have to be financed by higher I think what Mr. Henninger has you spent the past two years working to get taxes and so will spend less than anticipated. found in the Obama budget is the ra- Barack Obama into the White House. If you New York’s Mike Bloomberg, mayor of an tionale for these paradoxical tax provi- don’t, their posse has a six-week head start economically damaged city, has noted the sions. It is not a matter of helping fam- on you. pointlessness of raising taxes on the rich ilies or supporting small businesses to Thomas Piketty and Emmanuel Saez, when their wealth is plummeting, or of French economists, are rock stars of the in- eliminating the charitable deduction for peo- create more jobs or helping the econ- tellectual left. Their specialty is ‘‘earnings ple who have less to give anyway. omy grow out of the recession; rather, inequality’’ and ‘‘wealth concentration.’’ True but irrelevant. Mayor Bloomberg this is all being done to redistribute Messrs. Piketty and Saez have produced should read the Obama budget chapter, ‘‘In- the wealth in the country because it is the most politically potent squiggle along an heriting a Legacy of Misplaced Priorities.’’

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7310 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 The economy as most people understand it For 18 months between 1987 and 1988, depopulated by one of the 20th cen- was a second-order concern of the stimulus it is estimated that Saddam’s forces tury’s most vicious and tyrannical des- strategy. The primary goal is a massive re- destroyed several thousand Iraqi Kurd- pots. Fortunately, the story does not flowing of ‘‘wealth’’ from the top toward the ish villages and murdered approxi- end there. Today, thanks in no small bottom, to stop the moral failure they see in the budget’s ‘‘Top One Percent of Earners’’ mately 100,000 Iraqi Kurds, the major- part to the protection provided by the chart. ity of them unarmed civilians. At least United States, the Kurds of Iraq have The White House says its goal is simple 40 chemical weapon attacks have been rebuilt and their region is flourishing. ‘‘fairness.’’ That may be, as they understand documented—the first time in human The great Kurdish cities of Erbil, fairness. But Figure 9 makes it clear that for history that a government has used Sulaymaniyah, and Dohuk are the the top earners, there will be blood. This weapons of mass destruction against safest in Iraq today, and they are presidency is going to be an act of retribu- its own citizens. booming economically. The Kurdish tion. In the words of the third book from Mr. In her Pulitzer prize-winning book, people have emerged from the yoke of Obama, ‘‘It is our duty to change it.’’ ‘‘A Problem From Hell,’’ Samantha tyranny to become some of America’s Mr. ALEXANDER. Madam President, Power describes the assault on Halabja. best and most loyal allies anywhere in I hope all of us in the Chamber under- It is a chilling account. The chemical the world. stand that people are hurting, and we weapons were dropped from aircraft The leaders of the Kurdistan Re- want to see jobs and see the economy that flew low over the city. In gional Government still face chal- moving again. I think our point is that Samantha Power’s words: lenges. They need to pursue further po- the lessons of history show that raising Many families tumbled into primitive air litical reform and economic liberaliza- taxes doesn’t help create new jobs. Now raid shelters they had built outside their tion. They must fight corruption, and is not the time to change inequities in homes. When the gases seeped through the they must continue to work with the the Tax Code. Now is the time to cre- cracks, they poured out into the streets in a democratically elected Government in ate new jobs and for people to have panic. Baghdad to ensure that disputes over more money in their pockets. There, they found friends and family mem- contested territory in northern Iraq, We would like to join with the Presi- bers frozen in time like a modern version of Pompeii. Slumped a few yards behind a baby including in the city of Kirkuk, are re- dent in focusing attention on fixing the solved peacefully and not through vio- banks and getting credit flowing again carriage, caught permanently holding the hand of a loved one or shielding a child from lence. And I am confident they will. in the same way President Eisenhower the poisoned air, or calmly collapsed behind Indeed, in a remarkable—I would say did when he said: I will go to Korea and a car steering wheel. Not everyone who was miraculous—turn of history, 21 years concentrate my attention on this job exposed died instantly. Some of those who after the atrocity of Halabja, the Kurds until it is honorably done. inhaled the chemicals continued to stumble of Iraq have at least assumed their I yield the floor and suggest the ab- around town, blinded by the gas, giggling un- rightful role in shaping the future of sence of a quorum. controllably, or, because their nerves were the great country of which they are a malfunctioning, buckling at the knees. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The part. Today, the Kurds of Iraq enjoy clerk will call the roll. On the anniversary of this horrific the same rights and privileges as every The legislative clerk proceeded to attack on Halabja, I urge my col- other Iraqi citizen, and their represent- call the roll. leagues to pause and reflect on the les- atives sit in a democratically elected Mr. LIEBERMAN. Madam President, sons it teaches us. I ask unanimous consent that the order Parliament in Baghdad. What happened in Halabja should re- Perhaps in the most miraculous of all for the quorum call be rescinded. mind us that there is, unfortunately, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without turn of events and one of the great his- such a thing as evil in the world, and torical justices of our time, Saddam objection, it is so ordered. that we in the United States not only Mr. LIEBERMAN. Madam President, Hussein, that evil tyrant who ordered protect our security but uphold our the mass murders of tens of thousands I ask unanimous consent that I be almost cherished humanitarian values lowed to proceed as in morning busi- of Kurds, has been replaced as Presi- when we fight against it. dent of Iraq by a great Kurdish Iraqi ness for no more than 10 minutes. Halabja should also remind us that patriot, a freedom fighter and a great The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without there are leaders in the world whose friend of the United States, Jalal objection, it is so ordered. conduct is unconstrained by the most Talabani. That is something the sur- HALABJA ANNIVERSARY basic rules of humanity, whose only in- vivors of Halabja 21 years ago could Mr. LIEBERMAN. Madam President, terest is their own power, and who are it was exactly 21 years ago today that never possibly have imagined. willing to do anything necessary—no As we pause to remember the victims Saddam Hussein perpetrated one of matter how unspeakable or cruel—to modern history’s most barbaric crimes. of Halabja today, we should also give perpetuate their power. thanks to the extraordinary progress On the morning of March 16, 1988, the Halabja should remind us of the ex- that has been achieved since that ter- Iraqi Air Force dropped chemical weap- traordinary danger posed by rogue rible day 21 years ago—progress that ons on Halabja, a Kurdish city in states that possess weapons of mass de- has been made possible through the northeastern Iraq. Over the course of 3 struction, and why we and our allies courage and sacrifice of Kurds, Iraqis, days, tens of thousands of victims were must be prepared to take extraordinary exposed to mustard gas—which burns, and Americans alike. measures to prevent the world’s most I yield the floor, and I suggest the ab- mutates DNA, and causes malforma- dangerous regimes from getting the sence of a quorum. tions and cancer—as well as sarin gas— world’s most dangerous armaments. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The which can kill, paralyze, and cause Finally, Halabja should also remind clerk will call the roll. lasting neurological damage—among us that despite the many mistakes and The legislative clerk proceeded to other deadly chemical agents. Over the missteps the Bush administration call the roll. course of 3 days of bombing, it is be- made in the course of the war in Iraq, Mr. COBURN. Madam President, I lieved that at least 5,000 civilians were all who value human rights should be ask unanimous consent that the order murdered in Halabja. deeply grateful that Saddam Hussein for the quorum call be rescinded. The attack on Halabja was not the and his terrible regime are gone and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without only instance in which the former Iraqi now consigned to the dustbin of his- objection, it is so ordered. regime committed mass murder with tory. If anyone doubts the world is a Mr. COBURN. Madam President, I chemical weapons. On the contrary, it better, safer place with Saddam gone, ask unanimous consent to speak on the was just one event in a large-scale they need only look to the history of pending business. campaign against the Iraqi Kurds what happened on this day 21 years ago The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- called the Anfal, led by Saddam and his in Halabja. ator is recognized. henchman, Ali Hassal Al Majid, also Two decades ago, the Kurdish-inhab- Mr. COBURN. Madam President, the known as ‘‘chemical Ali.’’ ited regions of Iraq were decimated and American people should pay very close

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7311 attention this week. We are going to and prohibit energy exploration be- this package here in the Senate again, have on the floor what the majority cause it was close to a wilderness area. but it has become clear that despite leader calls a ‘‘noncontroversial’’ bill; We have had the Department of the In- procedural obstacles this package has a noncontroversial bill, in that we are terior rescind energy exploration per- broad bipartisan support on both sides going to take 3 million acres and deem mits that were duly granted under a of the Hill and should become law, and it untouchable for further energy for full and proper process because it was that is why we are back yet again. this country; noncontroversial in that not environmentally acceptable. Although each individual bill in this we are going to spend—in mandatory What is not acceptable is to deny the package is not the kind of thing that spending yearly from now on out—$900 fact that even if we get to a totally perhaps makes national headlines, as a million a year on things you will never green energy source, it is going to take whole it is important enough to justify see the benefit of; noncontroversial in us 20 years to do it. What is not accept- the time this body has committed to it, terms of taking specific areas with able is to continue to send our hard- and I appreciate the majority leader known, proven oil and gas reserves—300 earned dollars out of this country when bringing this back, and I appreciate the million by the Department of the Inte- in fact we could provide that same en- cooperation of my chairman, Senator rior’s estimation in one field alone—to ergy without sending those dollars out BINGAMAN, as we work to advance the the tune of 300 million barrels of oil of this country and increase our own very important provisions that are and 13 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. economic base and freedom and pros- contained in this omnibus public lands Yet it is noncontroversial. perity. package. The other thing we should be aware I look forward to the debate. I plan In the case of the Energy Committee, of is that throughout this omnibus on voting no on the motion to proceed, this package, along with a similar lands bill there are 150 different indi- and I plan on using every tool I can to package that was passed by the Senate vidual bills, 50 of which never had a delay and obstruct this piece of legisla- last spring, represents almost 2 years’ hearing in the House—they were voted tion because it is not in the best long- worth of hearings, negotiations, and on in the Senate in committee but term interest of our country. business meetings on the many facets most had never had a hearing—and we A bill that is 150 bills or 160 bills of these public lands issues. This pack- are going to step all over private prop- comes to the floor with many people as age contains over 160 public lands bills, erty rights in this Nation. We are not proponents. The question Americans the vast majority of which went going to do it directly, we are going to ought to ask their Senator is: Even through the regular committee process do it through laws that we refer to in though you get something for us, is and then sat individually on the Senate this omnibus package that allows the this a good deal for us? Is this some- calendar at the end of last session. bureaucracy—the faceless bureauc- thing with which we want to bless the Now, clearly, when you have a pack- racy—to now utilize portions of pre- other 149 bills throughout this mega, age that is comprised of this many existing acts to take land by eminent omnibus lands bill? Do you get some- bills—160 different public lands bills—it domain. thing that is good for the country as a does a great deal; it covers a great You are going to hear: Well, that is a whole, that is good for the country in many things. It covers the full range of small portion. It is specifically pre- the long term, that benefits the next the committee’s public lands jurisdic- vented in certain portions of the bill. two generations; do we do so in a way tion, whether it be from small bound- They do say that. But they do not obvi- that is prudent, efficient, effective, and ary adjustments and land exchanges to ate the law. In this omnibus bill are 70 manageable? The answer to that ques- large wilderness designations. There or 80 bills that I would happily pass, tion is no. It is no today, it is going to will be some who will suggest that the because I don’t think they have a pro- be no tomorrow, and it will be no after sheer number of bills that is contained found negative impact on our future. we have done this and look back on it in this package is a bad thing and that But there are 70 or 80 of the bills which 10 years from now. somehow or other this is new; it is un- I think have a profound negative im- We live in a make-believe world precedented. But for those of us who pact on the future, and I readily admit where we think we can have our cake come from western States, which con- to trying to stop this bill in the past. I and eat it too. We can’t. The fact is we tain large amounts of public lands— will put forward that I will do every- are tremendously reliant on carbon and in my State of Alaska about 1 per- thing in my power as an individual sources of energy. We need to quit cent of our lands are privately held, ev- Senator to, if not stop it, slow it down abandoning our own sources until we erything else is Federal, or State, or so that the American people will actu- can be carbon free. This bill takes us a part of the native claims settlements— ally know every aspect of everything long way toward taking off multiple public land is an important aspect of that is in this bill. areas of both potential and proven re- how we operate within our respective This bill is over 2,000 pages. There serves of natural gas, geothermal, and States. We understand that legislation, has never been one amendment. There oil which we should be utilizing for our such as that contained in this package, has never been one amendment allowed own benefit and our own future. is necessary to the day-to-day func- on the Senate floor to alter this bill. With that, I yield the floor. tioning of the western economy. So I look forward to a debate. I look I suggest the absence of a quorum. I said during the first debate of this forward to an open amendment process The PRESIDING OFFICER. The bill when it was before the Senate that that does not allow veto by the other clerk will call the roll. in the West simple real estate trans- side of what we want to try to amend The legislative clerk proceeded to actions that are taken for granted in and when we want to try to amend it. call the roll. the East often literally take an act of But I pledge to use every parliamen- Ms. MURKOWSKI. Madam President, Congress. And that is what we are here tary tactic I have at my disposal to de- I ask unanimous consent that the order doing today. It is taking an act of Con- fend the right to amend this bill. for the quorum call be rescinded. gress. This bill protects some of our Some may say: Well, you have a lost The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without natural landscape and historical treas- cause. Why don’t you give it up, Sen- objection, it is so ordered. ures. ator COBURN, and let them have it. Ms. MURKOWSKI. Madam President, Now, there are some who oppose such They are going to win. The reason we I rise today to speak in favor of cloture protections, claiming that we are shouldn’t let them win on this—al- on the motion to proceed to H.R. 146, threatening access to our Nation’s re- though there are good things in this which is the Revolutionary War and sources. But I do not believe that this bill—is because we are setting a prece- War of 1812 Battlefield Protection Act. is an either/or situation. We as a na- dent with a very weak foundation un- This is being used as a vehicle for the tion can maximize the development of derneath us for our future energy omnibus public lands package. our domestic energy and mineral re- needs. Recently, in the last 6 weeks, we I think it is probably safe to say that sources while at the same time pro- had a Federal judge in Utah abandon none of us had hoped to be voting on tecting our Nation’s other natural

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The closest this legislation will negatively impact bers, it is a chilling proposal for Amer- that one came to 1.2 percent was one on the availability of oil, gas, or na- ica that cannot be sustained. economist who predicted 1.4 percent, tional energy corridors. One of the things the President but the average was 2.6 percent and There is one section I should mention promised, I think in his State of the some, of course, higher than that. I do that does restrict oil and gas develop- Union and in his budget, was that we not think it is responsible. I think it is ment in Wyoming, but as my colleague would have an honest budget and there a gimmick or a misrepresentation to from Wyoming has mentioned, it is would not be gimmicks in it. There predict this economy will only con- fully supported by their State delega- have been, over the years, quite a num- tract by 1.2 percent in this year. tion and their Governor. Almost all of ber of times when Republicans and Let’s look at unemployment. The ad- the lands in this bill are already feder- Democrats have put gimmicks into the ministration forecasts it will only rise ally managed lands, most to be des- budget. I would say I do not think this to 8.1 percent. That is in the budget. It ignated as wilderness, are either within one is any better than the past. In fact, says next year it has it coming down to the Federal parks or have been man- I think it is probably worse, maybe 7.9 percent. That means more people aged with restrictions, such as wilder- considerably worse. The budget, enti- are working, more people are paying ness study areas or roadless areas. So tled ‘‘A New Era of Responsibility, Re- taxes, we have less food stamps and in that case a designation as Federal newing America’s Promise,’’ says on less welfare and less unemployment in- wilderness does not further restrict use page 43, the conclusion of the introduc- surance. It impacts how much money beyond what has been in place for quite tory summary: we are actually going to have to spend. some time. The budget itself does not use budget gim- So they are projecting 8.1 percent, On the other hand, this bill actually micks or accounting sleights of hand to hide which will be the peak of unemploy- transfers 23,226 acres of Federal lands our plans or the status of our economy. It is ment and that next year it will be to private and State sectors through forthright in the challenges we face and the lower, 7.9. conveyance, exchange, or sale. The bill sacrifices we must make. In the early 1980s, when President does authorize the expenditure of I do not think that is a fair state- Reagan and one of President Obama’s funds, but each of those is dependent ment of some of the things in here. We advisers, Paul Volcker—who was then on future appropriations that depend will be talking about some of the con- head of the Federal Reserve—broke the on the oversight provided by the appro- cerns as we go on. Fundamentally, the back of 15 percent inflation, but it put priations committees and the Presi- budget, as proposed, presents an overly us in a severe recession, unemployment dential budget request. rosy economic forecast. In fact, the hit 10.9 percent. We survived that with- I think it is fair to say that this proc- numbers do not correspond with the out a $800 billion stimulus bill, every ess is not my preferred method for best numbers we have on the economy penny of it going to the debt. But at passing legislation—putting multiple from the Blue Chip indicator. That is any rate, they are predicting 8.1 per- measures in an omnibus bill—but I be- the top 51 economists in the country. It cent on that. lieve that overall this package will im- is considered the gold standard of eco- What are these economists saying, prove our Nation’s management of its nomic forecasting that we should have the consensus? They project 9.2 percent public lands and its parks and will be a used or been close to. The consensus this year and 8.8 percent next year— long-term benefit for our Nation. view of the Blue Chip economists—why not 7.9. That makes a big difference. Therefore, I respectfully request my is this important? It is important be- This is a big difference. It matters as fellow Members support the passage of cause if you are projecting an overly to whether we can reach the goal the this omnibus legislation. healthy economy, you are projecting President has stated of reducing the With that, Madam President, I yield more revenue into the Treasury than deficit in half by 2013. That is not a sig- the floor. you are actually going to receive. That nificant commitment, frankly. It, in I suggest the absence of a quorum. is the big deal. itself, is a gimmick, and I will explain The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. In a budget you assume certain that too. Using the Blue Chip forecast, SHAHEEN). The clerk will call the roll. things. If it assumes a level of growth the deficit is going to be $53 billion The legislative clerk proceeded to that is too high or a level of unemploy- higher next year for fiscal year 2010 call the roll. ment that is lower than we can reason- and about $150 billion higher in 2013. Mr. SESSIONS. Madam President, I ably expect, then it provides the Gov- We will have opportunities as we go ask unanimous consent the order for ernment, for the purposes of a budget, forward. We will have budget hearings the quorum call be rescinded. the right to assume more income than this week, I think some more, and a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without we are going to have. The budget pre- markup in the Budget Committee next objection, it is so ordered. dicts our economic growth is going to week. I think we have a good com- THE BUDGET only decline this year by 1.2 percent. mittee. Chairman CONRAD is asking Mr. SESSIONS. Madam President, I That is what the budget has. It has some tough questions. He is not wish to briefly begin discussion in the these assumptions in it. That is how rubberstamping the administration’s Senate about the President’s budget they reach the numbers they reach. Ac- ideas, and I am proud of that because that has been submitted to the Con- cording to the President’s speeches, of we are going to have to take some gress. We have had hearings under course, we are facing one of the great- tough decisions. Chairman CONRAD, KENT CONRAD. His est economic crises in our Nation’s his- Let me share, fundamentally, where committee has had excellent hearings. tory and things are not good at all. So we are in spending. After 9/11, the budg- We have had some good discussions. We I would say that is not a very honest et deficit was $412 billion. That was one have had some important witnesses, evaluation. of the largest deficits we ever had. It and we have been talking about some The Blue Chip forecast shows that fell in fiscal year 2007–2008 to $161 bil- very important matters. the economy will decline this year by lion. Last year, ending September of I wish to say now that I think the 2.6 percent, more than twice that. That last year, that would be the 2008 budg- American people and the Members of is hardly a depression, thank goodness. et—the previous one was 2007 at $171— the Senate need to get focused on the I like to see that number. It is not as we came in at $455 billion. fact that the budget is not a good budg- bad as a lot of people have been pre- In 2004, a $412 billion deficit; the $455 et. The budget proposed by the Presi- dicting, 2.6, but it is way more negative billion deficit last year represented the dent presents unsustainable spending, than the President’s budget. highest deficits in our Nation’s history.

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Kerry, Frank $700 billion; on top of the $200 billion ask this Congress to pass it, that calls R. Lautenberg, Jeff Bingaman, Roland that the Congressional Budget Office for, over 10 years, each year having the W. Burris, Robert Menendez, Amy Klo- has scored that we pumped into highest deficits—higher than any defi- buchar, Jim Webb, Jack Reed, Bill Nel- Freddie and Fannie, those mortgage cits we have ever had before, ending up son. holding companies, we will total, hold with a $712 or $720 billion deficit 20 The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- your hat, this year when September 30 years from now, I don’t think we can imous consent, the mandatory quorum concludes, of this year, the estimate is support that. call has been waived. projected to be $1.8 trillion—not $455 It is time for a national discussion. The question is, Is it the sense of the billion but $1,800 billion. As the President said, we need to talk Senate that debate on the motion to They scored in that, I have to say, about an honest evaluation of the chal- proceed to H.R. 146, the Revolutionary $200 billion, about $200 billion from the lenges we face. And we face some tough War and War of 1812 Battlefield Protec- Wall Street bailout, $200 billion for challenges. But I have to tell you I am tion Act, shall be brought to a close? Freddie and Fannie, one-time expendi- hoping CBO and the Blue Chip guys and The yeas and nays are mandatory tures. But they didn’t score all the the President are correct. I am hoping under the rule. stimulus package. In fact, they have a unemployment will not hit 10 percent. The clerk will call the roll. portion of it scored as being spent this I am hoping next year will be a bet- The bill clerk called the roll. fiscal year and a portion of it the next ter year. History tells us that is prob- Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the and some the third year. Next year’s ably going to be the case. We have cer- Senator from Massachusetts (Mr. KEN- fiscal situation, according to our own tainly had the Federal Reserve take NEDY) is necessarily absent. Congressional Budget Office, is that some very aggressive action, most of it Mr. KYL. The following Senators are the deficit will be $1.1 trillion. probably wise and needed. necessarily absent: the Senator from I just wish to say to my colleagues We needed some stimulus from the Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS), the Senator and to those who might be listening Government. We certainly got that and from Florida (Mr. MARTINEZ), the Sen- outside this Chamber, it is not very more. It absolutely should give us some ator from Louisiana (Mr. VITTER), and hard to cut a budget deficit of $1.8 tril- boost in the short run, although the the Senator from Georgia (Mr. CHAM- lion in half; $1.8 trillion is almost four Congressional Budget Office said the BLISS). times the highest budget in the history $800 billion stimulus bill over 10 years The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there of the Republic—unless perhaps during would result in less growth of the econ- any other Senators in the Chamber de- World War II we reached that deficit, I omy over 10 years than if no bill at all siring to vote? don’t know. But certainly nothing has was passed. But it will help us some in The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 73, approached it in the last 30 or 40 years. the short run. I am sure that is true. nays 21, as follows: We are not doing well. Also, I have to So we are going to hope this economy [Rollcall Vote No. 99 Leg.] tell you that the budget is a 10-year will come back. If we contain spending, YEAS—73 budget. All of us know that in the out- if we watch the debt we are creating, years it is hard to predict what is going Akaka Feingold Murray we could end up with a lot better pro- Barrasso Feinstein Nelson (FL) to happen. I will just say, however, jection than this without a lot of pain Baucus Gillibrand Nelson (NE) that President Obama’s 10-year budget because a big part of this debt increase Bayh Hagan Pryor projects that the deficit in the 10th Begich Harkin Reed is based on an increase of sizeable pro- Bennet Hatch year—you would think if we cut the portions in spending, more than we can Reid Bennett Inouye Risch annual deficit, the annual shortfall, if sustain. Bingaman Johnson Rockefeller Bond Kaufman we cut it in half in 4 years, we would I yield the floor. Sanders Boxer Kerry Schumer keep cutting it. He is projecting some The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Brown Klobuchar $500 billion in 2013, and that is cer- ator from New Mexico is recognized. Burris Kohl Shaheen Snowe tainly conceivable, if we do not con- (The remarks of Mr. BINGAMAN per- Byrd Kyl Specter tinue spending. If we keep spending at taining to the introduction of S. 598 are Cantwell Landrieu Cardin Lautenberg Stabenow the same level we have today, we would located in today’s RECORD under Carper Leahy Tester be well below $500 billion, Lord willing ‘‘Statements on Introduced Bills and Casey Levin Udall (CO) and things continue the way we project Joint Resolutions.’’ Cochran Lieberman Udall (NM) Mr. BINGAMAN. Madam President, I Collins Lincoln Voinovich them to continue. Conrad Lugar Warner But I will say in the 10th year under suggest the absence of a quorum. Crapo McCaskill Webb the budget, they are projecting $712 bil- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Dodd Menendez Whitehouse lion in deficits. The lowest deficit they clerk will call the roll. Dorgan Merkley Wicker Durbin Mikulski Wyden are projecting over the entire 10 years The bill clerk proceeded to call the Enzi Murkowski exceeds $500 billion. As Senator GREGG roll. said at the hearing with Secretary Mr. BINGAMAN. I ask unanimous NAYS—21 Geithner in the Budget Committee last consent that the order for the quorum Alexander DeMint Isakson Brownback Ensign McCain week, that is not sustainable. I am just call be rescinded. Bunning Graham McConnell going to tell you, that is not sustain- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Burr Grassley Roberts able. I think we all, as a nation, have objection, it is so ordered. Coburn Gregg Sessions Corker Hutchison Shelby to ask ourselves: Should we go forward CLOTURE MOTION Cornyn Inhofe Thune with a budget that is composed of more The PRESIDING OFFICER. Pursuant taxes, more spending, and more debt? to rule XXII, the clerk will report the NOT VOTING—5 I am worried about it. I know a lot of motion to invoke cloture. Chambliss Kennedy Vitter Members are worried about it. We be- The bill clerk read as follows: Johanns Martinez lieve, as a lot of people do, that we CLOTURE MOTION The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this have to spend some money right now to We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- vote, the yeas are 73, the nays are 21. help start this economy. I am prepared ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Three-fifths of the Senators duly cho- to support some of that too. But I Standing Rules of the Senate, hereby move sen and sworn having voted in the af- think we have gone overboard. But re- to bring to a close debate on the motion to firmative, the motion is agreed to.

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Mr. President, I wish clerk will call the roll. mess appears likely to keep them today to speak in support of S. 408, leg- The bill clerk proceeded to call the there. They say it is a contract, but if islation that I introduced along with roll. the American public owns 80 percent of my colleague, Senator INOUYE, to reau- Mr. KAUFMAN. Mr. President, I ask the stock, the American taxpayers are thorize the Emergency Medical Serv- unanimous consent that the order for the owners. Therefore, I say, show us ices for Children, EMSC, Program ad- the quorum call be rescinded. these contracts that allow for this sort ministered by the Department of The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. WAR- of retention bonus. The American pub- Health and Human Services’, HHS, NER). Without objection, it is so or- lic, the taxpayers, have a right to ex- Health Resources and Services Admin- dered. pect to see each and every one of these istration’s, HRSA, Maternal and Child (The remarks of Mr. KAUFMAN and contracts. Health Bureau, MCHB. It is fitting that Mr. ISAKSON pertaining to the intro- You may say: Why is it the Treasury we do this in the year of the program’s duction of S. 605 are printed in today’s didn’t demand that these contracts be 25th anniversary. RECORD under ‘‘Statements on Intro- renegotiated when we sent that first The purpose of the EMSC Program is duced Bills and Joint Resolutions.’’) pile of money to AIG last year, the $85 straightforward: to ensure state-of-the- Mr. KAUFMAN. I suggest the ab- billion? The people of America get it, art emergency medical care for ill or sence of a quorum. and now they say: Who is watching injured children and adolescents. Chil- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The this? There has been a response letter dren have different medical needs than clerk will call the roll. written from the AIG CEO—the chair- adults, and that presents special chal- The legislative clerk proceeded to man and CEO—talking about this con- lenges for emergency and trauma care call the roll. tractual agreement, this decision to providers. These differences do not Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask pay these kinds of bonuses. He talks solely relate to medical supplies. They unanimous consent that the order for about his commitment to the future. are also physiological and emotional. the quorum call be rescinded. He says: AIG hereby commits to use Not only will an adult-sized facemask The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without best efforts to reduce expected 2009 re- not adequately administer oxygen to a objection, it is so ordered. tention payments by at least—listen to child; but, for example, children’s res- Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask this—30 percent. They are going to use piratory systems function differently, unanimous consent to speak as in their best efforts, so 2009 bonus pay- so they are more at risk for inflamma- morning business. ments are reduced by at least 30 per- tion and infection; and they maintain The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without cent. fluid balances differently and thus are objection, it is so ordered. Are we still talking about $100 mil- more prone to dehydration and death AIG BONUSES lion in bonus payments for a company due to blood and fluid loss. Kids even Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise we continue to bail out? Any American may not be old enough or sufficiently to discuss the recent decision by AIG taxpayer who reads that has to be of- cognizant to communicate what ex- to pay out $165 million in bonuses. In a fended by this approach to say we are actly is wrong with them or how they year when Main Street has suffered going to pay bonuses again in 2009. got hurt. dearly, it is disappointing to see that He goes on to say in his letter that The EMSC Program has helped edu- the culture of greed on Wall Street they cannot attract and retain the best cate and train medical professionals to continues to prevail. and the brightest talent to lead and to provide emergency care for children Every American ought to be out- staff the AIG business if the employees appropriately, because children are not raged. Every person who has ever paid believe their compensation is subject just small adults. taxes ought to be outraged by AIG’s de- to continued and arbitrary adjustment The program has made extraordinary cision to pay out such bonuses. by the U.S. Treasury. Arbitrary? Con- contributions in its 25 years—but dis- I returned from Wyoming this morn- tinued? Bring it out there and let the parities in children’s emergency care ing, and in the airport and on the owners of the company—the American still exist. According to the Institute plane, this is the topic people are talk- people—make that decision. The Amer- of Medicine, IOM’s 2006 report: ‘‘Emer- ing about—taxpayers who are expect- ican public will say they want account- gency Care for Children: Growing ing value for their hard-earned tax- ability, oversight, and they want value Pains,’’ children account for nearly payer dollars, people who are asking for their taxpayer dollars. It is not one-third of all emergency department about accountability, and people who what the American taxpayers are get- visits, yet many hospitals are simply are asking about oversight, saying: ting today from AIG. not prepared to handle pediatric pa- What in the world is going on back I yield the floor and suggest the ab- tients. The IOM reported that only 6 there in New York and in Washington? sence of a quorum. percent of EDs in the United States While I understand that AIG has con- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The have all of the necessary supplies to tractual obligations to fulfill, they also clerk will call the roll. appropriately handle children’s emer- have an obligation to the American The legislative clerk proceeded to gency care. taxpayer, who now holds nearly 80 per- call the roll. I am proud that my home State of cent of the ownership of AIG stock. Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, I ask Utah has played a special role in ad- To date, AIG has received nearly $175 unanimous consent that the order for vancing the level of emergency medical billion in taxpayer assistance. Similar the quorum call be rescinded. care for children and teenagers. Work- to any publicly traded company, AIG The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ing with the EMSC Program, Utah has must be accountable to shareholders, objection, it is so ordered. participated in the Intermountain Re- and the shareholders here are the f gional Emergency Medical Services for American people. Children Coordinating Council. The This money was intended to serve as MORNING BUSINESS University of Utah is home to both the a liferaft to keep the company afloat. Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, I ask National Emergency Medical Services It was never intended to reward AIG unanimous consent that the Senate for Children Data Analysis Resource

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Center, NEDARC, and the Central Data RECORD. This is not an issue that will tries for our oil. It is simple really. No mat- Management Coordinating Center, be easily resolved, but it is one that deter how long it takes it needs to be done and CDMCC, for the Pediatric Emergency serves immediate and serious atten- we should not put it off another minute. I fear greatly that our next president (the one Care Applied Research Network, tion, and Idahoans deserve to be heard. most likely to be elected) will overlook this PECARN. Utah-based projects also Their stories not only detail their issue and it will rapidly get worse. helped pioneer the development of struggles to meet everyday expenses, The general public, average hard working training materials on caring for special but also have suggestions and rec- Americans are struggling. If one does not needs pediatric patients. ommendations as to what Congress can make $100,000 a year, it is getting impossible Each year, representatives of Utah’s do now to tackle this problem and find to live. I look at my own situation (which is medical workforce come to visit and not good) and then wonder how those less solutions that last beyond today. I ask fortunate are even surviving? talk about the wonderful accomplish- unanimous consent to have today’s let- My husband is a small partner on a dairy. ments and importance of the EMSC ters printed in the RECORD. I lost my job in November of last year due to Program. There being no objection, the mate- an office closure and I am now working from The IOM report also recommended rial was ordered to be printed in the home. Yet, there is hardly any work. As a doubling the EMSC Program budget RECORD, as follows: travel agent, money only comes in when peo- over the next 5 years. Over the past ple travel. And that is not happening much Even before the almost (daily) increase in anymore. We have never had much left over several years, there has been a height- a gallon of gas, I tried to drive as little as after bills were paid; however a year ago if ened interest in emergency prepared- possible and carpool when possible. And, my kids needed socks, I could at least buy a ness and emergency services coordina- when driving, to bunch errand together in package. This year, I have to use one credit tion. Despite this, there has been little the same area of the city, so as to use less . . . card to pay another just to keep afloat. concern with pediatric emergency gasoline. In fact, I have to put my groceries on credit It is summer, now, and I try to use my car readiness. The interest and financial which is pretty much run out. Do you not just once a week, for church on Sunday find that sad? I fear greatly what is ahead. support has gone to predominately sup- (buses do not run on Sunday, bike helmet port communications and coordination Should not people who have good jobs like us causes helmet hair-do, which is not cool for be able to live without worrying about food of local, State, and Federal emergency church). or socks? We are $500 away from bankruptcy. resources. The focus has been on the When I do purchase gas, it shocks me how And the stimulus package? Really, what general population, on adult care; much I pay. I did not budget for $4+/gallon kind of joke was that? First of all, we were there is not a national strategy to ad- gas. I worry that the effect of escalating pe- lied to about when we would receive it direct dress the complex emergency care troleum prices on all sectors of our com- deposited, so a good chunk of it went to NSF merce and so, my life (along with the incred- needs of children. In light of the recent fees. Then the rest went to barely put a dent ible rise in health care costs), may severely in catching up bills. Save it? Whose idea and current events related to national compromise my carefully-planned retire- (dream) was that? I do not know a person readiness, such as a potential influenza ment budget. Some days I wonder what will who saved it. outbreak, bioterrorist attack, or nat- become of me. I am behind in my car payments which I ural disaster, children’s readiness must However, I keep on trying to live lightly, guess if I lose my car, I will not need to also be acknowledged and funded. use Boise’s bare-bones bus system, and ride worry much about gas now, will I? I am sick, The EMSC Program last expired in my bike whenever and wherever I can. I insecure, and sad about what I know is com- 2005. EMSC remains the only Federal know I do not look chic with my old-lady ing. We Americans cannot hold on much Schwinn with side baskets, but at my age, I longer. Why is not someone doing anything program dedicated to examining the try not to be too vain. about this? Maybe because most government best ways to deliver various forms of I have more time than employed people to officials make enough money to live com- care to children in emergency settings. use the bus and ride my bike to the grocery, fortably right? I bet you can afford socks Its reauthorization is long overdue. appointments, and other places. Unfortu- right? I bet you can buy food for your family The House passed its version of the nately, I also have osteoarthritis, so riding without maxing a credit card to do so. Why EMSC reauthorization bill in April of my bike or walking any distance from the cannot I? last year by an overwhelming vote of bus stops has become more difficult. Please . . . help us . . . and soon. MICHELLE. 390 to 1; but, unfortunately, the Senate Nonetheless, I try to do my part to stay green and influence others to do the same. I was not able to take up the bill before am a little old lady who conserves water in I want to thank you for taking the time to the 110th Congress adjourned. While I my landscape and in my house (e.g., bucket read this e-mail and for contacting us about surely understand the uncertainties of of water in the shower to catch the cold how energy prices are having an impact on the Senate’s legislative agenda, I am water while waiting for the shower to heat us. My wife and I are both college graduates; up, buying/installing water saving fixtures disappointed we were unable to pass she is a teacher and I am a chiropractor at and appliances), recycles and pulls this very important reauthorization Saint Alphonsus Hospital. We have sky-high recyclables out of others’ trash cans, has im- legislation to which there was no oppo- student loans we pay on and as such watch plemented several recycling programs, has a sition. our budget close. The rise in gas as well as mostly xeric landscape, eschews plastic the result in increased prices in food has S. 408 contains the same language water bottles and paper cups, and is pure in caused us to ride our bikes to work; we live that received such tremendous bipar- heart. almost in Eagle and I ride the Greenbelt all tisan support, and I urge my colleagues I wish I had more answers on what will be- the way into downtown Boise to try and save to support its timely passage. come of all of us. On dark days, I think our money. We have also planted a garden in civilization is going to implode because we f hopes that it will save us some money at the do not seem to be able to get smart enough IDAHOANS SPEAK OUT ON HIGH store. fast enough to save ourselves. We knew—as Our overall shopping is down, we do not ENERGY PRICES individuals, as a government, as a society— buy clothing, or ‘‘extras’’ anymore and we Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, in mid- that we would run out of fossil fuels and just buy what we need and then save up for June, I asked Idahoans to share with would need alternative energy sources. They fun items once in a while. Our shopping has are at least 20 years out from being viable. turned from new items to more and more me how high energy prices are affect- I pray that God will let me die before the ing their lives, and they responded by used or discount so I know that if others are last catastrophic days of all our lives. Thank feeling this way too the major retail stores the hundreds. The stories, numbering you for a chance to tell my story and express will be suffering a major blow, no wonder well over 1,200, are heartbreaking and my opinion. why the economy is slow? We love to travel, touching. While energy prices have FRANCES, Boise. but we do not as much now due to the cost dropped in recent weeks, the concerns of gas, food and airline tickets. In short, our expressed remain very relevant. To re- It saddens me greatly that we Idahoans, way of life is being crippled and will con- spect the efforts of those who took the along with all Americans are suffering like tinue to be so till we wake up and start using we are at the hands of big government and opportunity to share their thoughts, I our own natural resources. environmentalists. It is clear and has been BRIAN and AMY, Boise. am submitting every e-mail sent to me for years that we can and should be access- through an address set up specifically ing our own recourses in the United States. I have watched to rising cost of fuel affect for this purpose to the CONGRESSIONAL We should not be dependent on other coun- everyone I know here in the Treasure Valley.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7316 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 My parents own a small trucking company ply of food for the family and living within take this stupidity much longer. I wish you in Emmett, and employed two other drivers. our means. We live in a 67-year-old farm- would all just stop fighting, go to your When the price of diesel fuel hit over $3.50 a house because that was all we could afford. rooms on time out and then think about gallon, my stepfather had to lay off the It is beat up and needs to be torn down but what you are doing wrong. That is the moth- other two drivers just to keep him in busi- this is our home so this is the way we live. er in me. Do the right thing. There, I think ness. Now the price of diesel is over $4.80 a My husband does not make a lot of money. I that is it for now. gallon, and my stepfather is going to have to only can work in the evenings when he is JODI and AARON, Nampa. go out of business. My parents are too young home for the children because we do not to retire, but too old to get into any other want someone else raising our children who We are writing in response to your letter line of work. What are they going to do to do not care for them in the least. I stopped asking for Idahoans to tell their story about survive? Could you ask your other Senators working full-time five years ago to stay how high fuel prices are affecting them. that please? I have a friend who lives in Em- home full-time with the children. We lost First I want to say that my family has been mett, but works in Nampa at Buy MPC loy- our health benefits then and have been with- expecting this for some time now. We have ally for the past 12 years. He bought a house out since then. With a daughter who has known that cheap oil is a dream funded by in Emmett at this time, and was living the pretty serious asthma and allergies with her government subsidies working with the big American dream. Today he is starting to medications every month costing about $300 oil companies. consider letting his home go into fore- to me needing a $40,000 surgery to recon- Oil is not an infinite resource. The U.S. closure. This is because he cannot afford the struct my knee so the intense pain I live peaked in oil production in the 70s and we gasoline to drive his car to work and back, with everyday recedes, any jump in our tight believe that the world supply has peaked al- and he is thinking of renting an apartment budget puts a strain on us. ready and we are now facing the fact that in Nampa to be closer to work. He does not Where do the extra fuel costs come from in supply cannot keep up with demand. We have drive some gas-guzzling SUV, but a fuel-effi- my budget? It comes out of the money we actually four things which are coming to a cient compact, and his fuel expense is still buy food with. I cut down on fresh fruits and head at this moment in time; more than he can afford. Many of my friends vegetables. I cut down on cuts of meat. I cut 1. Peak Oil are in a very similar situation. Are the CEOs down on dairy products. We live very mea- 2. Peak Food of the oil companies going to come in and fix gerly. Not in the world’s standards mind you, 3. Climate Change 4. Economic downturn/recession things so my parents and friends get to keep I have lived in a third world country for Number 2 through 4 are all due to number their jobs and their homes? Could you ask about 14 months, I know what poor is. The 1—peak oil. The world is also experiencing a them that for me? I wonder how many CEOs standards we are talking about are our population problem which has come about of oil companies, and the big city politicians, American society. from cheap oil resulting in cheap food. It would be willing to come out here to Idaho Our government does not live within its seems like many are in denial about what is and work for $11.00 an hour and make the means; it spends to oblivion. They borrow happening—and the longer we are in denial, commute from Emmett to Boise five days a money like it is monopoly money. They are the harder things are going to be. week? Maybe they should, so that way they in our lives too much and should not be. We have bought a car which gets 45–50 know pain many hard working Idahoan’s are Then the answer they come up with for be- mpg. We are conscious of when we drive, going through right now. coming self-reliant with our oil demands and combining our errands etc. We are growing I have some ideas for you and other Sen- our energy consumption is: ‘‘cut down on much of our own food and are sourcing and ators to think about. Do any of you watch your driving, buy a more fuel efficient car. eating local food as much as possible. We are the Discovery Channel? I have seen many so- Do not build any more refineries, do not drill very involved with the ‘‘Local’’ movement as lutions to our energy needs on this channel. our own oil, do not build nuclear, do not con- we believe that this is the one thing that is In Europe they are testing a Hydrogen Fu- vert coal to oil, do not convert shale to oil going to save us from a meltdown. We want sion Reactor. This thing is environmentally and for sure do not drill in ANWR or off our small government as we do not believe that safe, produces no waste, and cannot melt own coasts. Let us lease 100-year leases to BIG government is in the people’s best inter- down. It also produces a lot more power than China and India and let them take our oil. est. The only thing that really seems to mat- the old nuclear reactors that we have now. They will do it right for sure. They are so ter with BIG government is the bottom line Why not look at doing this later on down the honest with us and keep us in their minds to of the corporations and the lobbyists. road, instead of going nuclear? During the try to help us for sure.’’ What is wrong with People want change. They want better last energy crisis of the latter 70s and early all of our government officials? leadership and leaders with common sense. If 80s, my grandfather showed me a solution. My family lived in Anchorage, Alaska, for we all have to forgo our SUV’s and the ‘‘old He ran his 1960s Farmal tractor on alcohol, the previous eight years before moving to American lifestyle’’ then so be it. We do not and all he had to do was make a minor ad- Nampa. We have been debating this ANWR see much choice in the matter. We all need justment to the carburetor. He did the same thing since before I can remember. What will to conserve energy and create ways to have thing with his 65 Ford pick-up. If this it take to knock some common sense into renewable energy. This planet cannot handle worked so well with 1960s technology, why these elected officials? I am tired of them growth unchecked—which has been the would not it work with all the technology acting like they know what is best for us. I premise up til now. It is going to be painful, that has came after it? I turn on the news, am tired of the environmentalists ruling the but in the long run it is going to be better. and all I hear politicians and CEOs saying world. I am tired of these elected officials JAMES and LESLEE, Buhl. how we either cannot do these things, or it playing politics when I am suffering with my would be more expensive if we did these family in what I can buy for their dinner. We think we are lucky to be living in things. Yet, I know from personal knowl- Do they worry about not having the right Idaho, as the people who live here are re- edge, and from what I see and hear on the amount of vegetables and fruits for their sourceful and strong. Discovery Channels, that this just is not the children so they can grow and be well? No, JAMES. truth. Maybe the time has come for Idaho to they do not. I do. And then they vote on stop waiting on the federal government to do issues that like carbon taxes and credits. The high gas prices are killing me when I something and take the bull by the horns. What the heck is that all about? I am so buy gas. I own a rather old American car. It Why cannot Idaho fix Idaho’s energy needs? tired of this. If I could have them in a room is a 1998 Pontiac Grand Am with a 3.1 liter Thank you for your time in reading this, and for five minutes, I would let them know how V6. It is well cared for and gets pretty good thank you for asking for these stories. I feel. Get your stinking head out of Wash- gas mileage. 27 mpg around town and 30 mpg AARON. ington, DC and listen to the people who on the interstate. With 167,000 miles on the elected you. Stop taking American’s inde- odometer I want to buy a new car but with My husband and three children live in pendence and trampling it under your feet. I gas prices around $4 a gallon I hesitate. I Nampa. We both work in Boise. It is a 25- am more angry than you know. want to buy an American car that can use mile commute one way every day in the Build refineries, build coal plants, drill for ethanol. General Motors is in the news join- morning five days a week for my husband oil wherever we can. Get the Chinese and ing with the Ethanol maker from the 60 Min- and three times a week for me. Going to the India off our coasts and let us drill. Build nu- utes TV show to make Ethanol at $1.00 a gal- gas pump so often does not make one happy. clear power plants, get the coal and shale lon from old tires, wood chips and garbage. I I cannot believe the lack of common sense and convert it. Stop importing oil from ter- went to GM dealers and none make or sell our government officials have concerning rorists that control our economy when they flex fuel cars that can be bought in Brazil. most issues but right now but this is the want to. Let the Americans be great again. My car runs good because I care for it so I issue affecting my family the most. Stop listening to the environmentalists and guess I will need to wait a few more years to We try to live our lives in a way that is listen to us. My family suffers because you buy myself a new flex fuel car that can run self-sufficient, trying to lower our debt, try- cannot do the right thing. Beware of con- on either gasoline or ethanol. ing to not buy on credit, growing a big gar- tinuing in your ways. Some of us have you in I try everything to save gas. My tires are den, canning food, storing water and a sup- our sights and can vote differently. I cannot well-inflated and the engine is tuned. I use a

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7317 Chase Bank credit card that pays me 5% TRIBUTE TO NOLAN B. GIERE EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED back on gasoline purchases. But the price of ∑ gas is still killing me. Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, I know As in executive session the Presiding In the short term, I believe that we in the my colleagues and the American people Officer laid before the Senate messages U.S. need to pass laws to permit drilling for agree we cannot adequately recognize from the President of the United oil off the coast and also process oil shale the sacrifices of the men and women of States submitting sundry nominations into gasoline. We need to do something now what has been described as our ‘‘great- which were referred to the appropriate or our country will come to a sudden stop. est generation’’—the veterans of World committees. DAN. War II. But today, I am going to try. (The nominations received today are Today, I pay tribute to an obscure printed at the end of the Senate pro- f member of the greatest generation who ceedings.) has slipped the surly bounds to be with f ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS God—a simple farm boy, born and raised toiling on his father’s farm in MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE Hawley, MN, a youth who, in 1942, At 2:03 p.m., a message from the TRIBUTE TO DEBRA CLOW heard the calling of duty, honor, and House of Representatives, delivered by ∑ Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I wish country and enlisted in the U.S. Army Mr. Zapata, one of its reading clerks, today to recognize the work and career Air Corps, a man and decorated airman announced that the House has passed of Debra K. Clow of Sioux Falls, SD. who, after flying 35 combat missions the following bill, in which it requests Later this month, Debra will be retir- over Europe, returned to the United the concurrence of the Senate: ing after nearly 37 years of Federal States to restart his life in Missoula, H.R. 1262. An act to amend the Federal service in the Department of Veterans MT. Water Pollution Control Act to authorize ap- Nolan B. Giere was a ball turret gun- propriations for State water pollution con- Affairs. trol revolving funds, and for other purposes. Debra grew up in Yankton, SD. She ner in the B–24 Liberator—a simple attended the University of South Da- staff sergeant upon his honorable dis- f kota at Springfield and started her ca- charge in 1945. Together with his wife MEASURES REFERRED Marge for almost 50 years, they lived in reer with the ROTC at USD in August The following bill was read the first 1972. She began her career with the VA Missoula, MT, raised four children, and served as a foundation in the commu- and the second times by unanimous as a fee base clerk in January 1974 and consent, and referred as indicated: over the years worked impressively in nity, the business and church they both so loved. H.R. 1262. An act to amend the Federal various capacities, including develop- Water Pollution Control Act to authorize ap- ment clerk, claims examiner, author- On March 26, 2009, at the Western Montana Veterans Cemetery, a grate- propriations for State water pollution con- izer, training and quality coordinator, trol revolving funds, and for other purposes; ful Nation will place to rest another of and coach. In recent years, she also ad- to the Committee on Environment and Pub- vised and updated South Dakota con- the greatest generation—Nolan Giere— lic Works. a simple farmer, a veteran, a local gressional staffs with the detailed sta- f tus of cases involving numerous vet- small businessman, and ultimately a INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND erans. loving father and husband. Nolan Giere JOINT RESOLUTIONS While working at the VA Regional epitomizes all that is great about Office in Sioux Falls, Debra served as America. The following bills and joint resolu- the women’s veterans coordinator. She To Nolan Giere, and his wife Marge, tions were introduced, read the first served as coordinator from 1990 to 2008, we salute you. Godspeed. and second times by unanimous con- Mr. President, I ask to have printed witnessing the evolving scope of care sent, and referred as indicated: in the RECORD a letter from the Air and attention to the unique issues af- By Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself, Mr. Force Chief of Staff to Marjorie Giere, fecting women veterans. She has also REED, Mr. COCHRAN, Mr. KOHL, Mr. commemorating the life of her hus- attended numerous VA outreach events KERRY, and Mr. CASEY): band. to explain VA benefits to veterans and S. 595. A bill to authorize funds to the The information follows: Local Initiatives Support Corporation to their dependents. carry out its Community Safety Initiative; I want to commend Debra for her U.S. AIR FORCE, Washington, DC, February 19, 2009. to the Committee on the Judiciary. many years of service to this Nation’s Mrs. Marjorie H. Giere, By Mr. WYDEN (for himself and Ms. veterans and their families. Her honor- Missoula, MT. SNOWE): able service has been marked by a true DEAR MARJORIE: On March 26, 2009, at the S. 596. A bill to require the Secretary of sense of dedication and commitment to Veterans Cemetery in Missoula, MT, a grate- Commerce to establish an award program to the men and women who have served ful nation will place to rest a fellow Airman. honor achievements in nanotechnology, and our Nation in the Armed Forces. Volunteering to serve his country, your hus- for other purposes; to the Committee on band, Nolan Giere, flew 35 combat missions Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Countless veterans have benefitted By Mrs. MURRAY (for herself, Mrs. from her dedicated work, much of during World War II in the B–24 Liberator. Like others with him and after him, Nolan HUTCHISON, Mr. ROCKEFELLER, Ms. which was done behind the scenes but realized a greater duty, and did not hesitate MIKULSKI, Mrs. BOXER, Ms. SNOWE, always with the best interests of the to pick up the torch. We honor his life, his Mr. WYDEN, Mr. JOHNSON, Mrs. LIN- veterans in mind. I applaud her great service, and his commitment to service and COLN, Ms. STABENOW, Ms. MURKOWSKI, service, and I am sure that she is retir- country. Mr. BROWN, Ms. COLLINS, and Mr. ing from the Department of Veterans On behalf of all Airmen, past and present, LAUTENBERG): Affairs with many rewarding experi- I commemorate the life of your husband, S. 597. A bill to amend title 38, United Staff Sergeant Nolan B. Giere, United States States Code, to expand and improve health ences and memories. care services available to women veterans, I wish Debra and her husband, Jeff, Army Air Corps, for his selfless contributions to his country. especially those serving in operation Iraqi all the best in retirement. As a life Sincerely, Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, member of the Izaak Walton League of NORTON A. SCHWARTZ, from the Department of Veterans Affairs, America, a 25-year member of the General, USAF, Chief of Staff.∑ and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. American Business Women’s Associa- f tion, and an avid gardener and dog By Mr. BINGAMAN (for himself and lover, I am sure there are many en- MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT Ms. MURKOWSKI): S. 598. A bill to amend the Energy Policy deavors awaiting her attention and ef- Messages from the President of the and Conservation Act to improve appliance fort. Again, I wish to recognize and United States were communicated to standards, and for other purposes; to the commend Debra for her great service to the Senate by Mrs. Neiman, one of his Committee on Energy and Natural Re- our Nation.∑ secretaries. sources.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7318 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 By Mr. CARPER (for himself and Ms. 211, a bill to facilitate nationwide S. 324 COLLINS): availability of 2-1-1 telephone service At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the S. 599. A bill to amend chapter 81 of title 5, for information and referral on human name of the Senator from Massachu- United States Code, to create a presumption services and volunteer services, and for setts (Mr. KERRY) was added as a co- that a disability or death of a Federal employee in fire protection activities caused by other purposes. sponsor of S. 324, a bill to provide for any certain diseases is the result of the per- S. 213 research on, and services for individ- formance of such employee’s duty; to the At the request of Mrs. BOXER, the uals with, postpartum depression and Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- name of the Senator from Massachu- psychosis. ernmental Affairs. setts (Mr. KERRY) was added as a co- S. 345 By Mr. BENNETT (for himself and Mr. sponsor of S. 213, a bill to amend title At the request of Mr. LUGAR, the HATCH): 49, United States Code, to ensure air name of the Senator from Rhode Island S. 600. A bill to protect public health and passengers have access to necessary (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) was added as a co- safety in the event that testing of nuclear weapons by the United States is resumed; to services while on a grounded air car- sponsor of S. 345, a bill to reauthorize the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- rier, and for other purposes. the Tropical Forest Conservation Act sources. S. 254 of 1998 through fiscal year 2012, to re- By Mrs. HUTCHISON: At the request of Mrs. LINCOLN, the name the Tropical Forest Conservation S. 601. A bill to establish the Weather Miti- names of the Senator from Georgia Act of 1998 as the ‘‘Tropical Forest and gation Research Office, and for other pur- (Mr. CHAMBLISS) and the Senator from Coral Conservation Act of 2009’’, and poses; to the Committee on Commerce, North Carolina (Mr. BURR) were added for other purposes. Science, and Transportation. as cosponsors of S. 254, a bill to amend S. 353 By Mr. BROWN (for himself, Mr. title XVIII of the Social Security Act KERRY, and Mr. LIEBERMAN): At the request of Mr. BROWN, the S. 602. A bill to direct the Secretary of to provide for the coverage of home in- name of the Senator from Rhode Island Homeland Security to conduct a survey to fusion therapy under the Medicare Pro- (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) was added as a co- determine the level of compliance with na- gram. sponsor of S. 353, a bill to amend title tional voluntary consensus standards and S. 266 IV of the Public Health Service Act to any barriers to achieving compliance with At the request of Mr. NELSON of Flor- provide for the establishment of pedi- such standards, and for other purposes; to ida, the name of the Senator from Con- atric research consortia. the Committee on Homeland Security and necticut (Mr. LIEBERMAN) was added as S. 358 Governmental Affairs. a cosponsor of S. 266, a bill to amend By Mr. GRASSLEY: At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the S. 603. A bill to amend rule 11 of the Fed- title XVIII of the Social Security Act name of the Senator from Alabama eral Rules of Civil Procedure, relating to to reduce the coverage gap in prescrip- (Mr. SESSIONS) was added as a cospon- representation in court and sanctions for tion drug coverage under part D of sor of S. 358, a bill to ensure the safety violating such rule, and for other purposes; such title based on savings to the Medi- of members of the United States Armed to the Committee on the Judiciary. care program resulting from the nego- Forces while using expeditionary fa- By Mr. SANDERS: tiation of prescription drug prices. cilities, infrastructure, and equipment S. 604. A bill to amend title 31, United S. 277 States Code, to reform the manner in which supporting United States military op- At the request of Mr. BENNET, his the Board of Governors of the Federal Re- erations overseas. name was added as a cosponsor of S. serve System is audited by the Comptroller S. 388 277, a bill to amend the National and General of the United States and the manner At the request of Ms. MIKULSKI, the Community Service Act of 1990 to ex- in which such audits are reported, and for name of the Senator from Pennsyl- other purposes; to the Committee on Bank- pand and improve opportunities for vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- ing, Housing, and Urban Affairs. service, and for other purposes. sponsor of S. 388, a bill to extend the By Mr. KAUFMAN (for himself, Mr. At the request of Mr. WARNER, his ISAKSON, and Mr. TESTER): name was added as a cosponsor of S. termination date for the exemption of S. 605. A bill to require the Securities and 277, supra. returning workers from the numerical Exchange Commission to reinstate the up- limitations for temporary workers. S. 298 tick rule and effectively regulate abusive At the request of Mr. ISAKSON, the S. 422 short selling activities; to the Committee on At the request of Ms. STABENOW, the Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. SNOWE) was added as a cosponsor of S. names of the Senator from Minnesota f 298, a bill to establish a Financial Mar- (Ms. KLOBUCHAR), the Senator from ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS kets Commission, and for other pur- Connecticut (Mr. DODD), the Senator poses. from New Mexico (Mr. BINGAMAN) and S. 146 S. 303 the Senator from New Jersey (Mr. LAU- At the request of Mr. KOHL, the name At the request of Mr. VOINOVICH, the TENBERG) were added as cosponsors of of the Senator from Rhode Island (Mr. name of the Senator from North Caro- S. 422, a bill to amend the Federal WHITEHOUSE) was added as a cosponsor lina (Mr. BURR) was added as a cospon- Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and the of S. 146, a bill to amend the Federal sor of S. 303, a bill to reauthorize and Public Health Service Act to improve antitrust laws to provide expanded cov- improve the Federal Financial Assist- the prevention, diagnosis, and treat- erage and to eliminate exemptions ance Management Improvement Act of ment of heart disease, stroke, and from such laws that are contrary to the 1999. other cardiovascular diesases in public interest with respect to rail- S. 307 women. roads. At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the S. 427 S. 182 names of the Senator from Minnesota At the request of Mrs. LINCOLN, the At the request of Ms. MIKULSKI, the (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) and the Senator from name of the Senator from New Mexico name of the Senator from Delaware Nebraska (Mr. JOHANNS) were added as (Mr. BINGAMAN) was added as a cospon- (Mr. KAUFMAN) was added as a cospon- cosponsors of S. 307, a bill to amend sor of S. 427, a bill to amend title XVI sor of S. 182, a bill to amend the Fair title XVIII of the Social Security Act of the Social Security Act to clarify Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide to provide flexibility in the manner in that the value of certain funeral and more effective remedies to victims of which beds are counted for purposes of burial arrangements are not to be con- discrimination in the payment of determining whether a hospital may be sidered available resources under the wages on the basis of sex, and for other designated as a critical access hospital supplemental security income pro- purposes. under the Medicare program and to ex- gram. S. 211 empt from the critical access hospital S. 462 At the request of Ms. MURKOWSKI, her inpatient bed limitation the number of At the request of Mrs. BOXER, the name was added as a cosponsor of S. beds provided for certain veterans. name of the Senator from Nevada (Mr.

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ENSIGN) was added as a cosponsor of S. pretax basis and to allow a deduction sor of S. Con. Res. 6, a concurrent reso- 462, a bill to amend the Lacey Act for TRICARE supplemental premiums. lution expressing the sense of Congress Amendments of 1981 to prohibit the im- S. 524 that national health care reform portation, exportation, transportation, At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the should ensure that the health care and sale, receipt, acquisition, or pur- name of the Senator from Colorado needs of women and of all individuals chase in interstate or foreign com- (Mr. UDALL) was added as a cosponsor in the United States are met. merce, of any live animal of any proof S. 524, a bill to amend the Congres- S. RES. 20 hibited wildlife species, and for other sional Budget and Impoundment Con- At the request of Mr. VOINOVICH, the purposes. trol Act of 1974 to provide for the expe- name of the Senator from Nebraska S. 467 dited consideration of certain proposed (Mr. JOHANNS) was added as a cospon- At the request of Mr. DODD, the name rescissions of budget authority. sor of S. Res. 20, a resolution cele- of the Senator from New Jersey (Mr. S. 527 brating the 60th anniversary of the MENENDEZ) was added as a cosponsor of At the request of Mr. THUNE, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. S. 467, a bill to amend the National and names of the Senator from Missouri S. RES. 37 Community Service Act of 1990 to es- (Mr. BOND) and the Senator from Wyo- At the request of Mr. LAUTENBERG, tablish Encore Service Programs, En- ming (Mr. ENZI) were added as cospon- the name of the Senator from Pennsyl- core Fellowship Programs, and Silver sors of S. 527, a bill to amend the Clean vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- Scholarship Programs, and for other Air act to prohibit the issuance of per- sponsor of S. Res. 37, a bill calling on purposes. mits under title V of that Act for cer- officials of the Government of Brazil S. 469 tain emissions from agricultural pro- and the federal courts of Brazil to com- At the request of Mr. VOINOVICH, the duction. ply with the requirements of the Con- name of the Senator from Hawaii (Mr. S. 535 vention on the Civil Aspects of Inter- AKAKA) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. NELSON of Flor- national Child Abduction and to assist 469, a bill to amend chapter 83 of title ida, the names of the Senator from in the safe return of Sean Goldman to 5, United States Code, to modify the California (Mrs. BOXER) and the Sen- his father, David Goldman. computation for part-time service ator from Pennsylvania (Mr. CASEY) S. RES. 64 under the Civil Service Retirement were added as cosponsors of S. 535, a At the request of Mrs. BOXER, the System. bill to amend title 10, United States name of the Senator from Maryland S. 475 Code, to repeal requirement for reduc- (Mr. CARDIN) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. BURR, the name tion of survivor annuities under the of S. Res. 64, a resolution recognizing of the Senator from Alabama (Mr. SES- Survivor Benefit Plan by veterans’ de- the need for the Environmental Protec- SIONS) was added as a cosponsor of S. pendency and indemnity compensation, tion Agency to end decades of delay 475, a bill to amend the and for other purposes. and utilize existing authority under Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to S. 546 the Resource Conservation and Recov- guarantee the equity of spouses of mili- At the request of Mr. REID, the ery Act to comprehensively regulate tary personnel with regard to matters names of the Senator from New Jersey coal combustion waste and the need for of residency, and for other purposes. (Mr. LAUTENBERG) and the Senator the Tennessee Valley Authority to be a S. 482 from California (Mrs. BOXER) were national leader in technological inno- At the request of Mr. FEINGOLD, the added as cosponsors of S. 546, a bill to vation, low-cost power, and environ- name of the Senator from Alaska (Mr. amend title 10, United States Code, to mental stewardship. BEGICH) was added as a cosponsor of S. permit certain retired members of the f 482, a bill to require Senate candidates uniformed services who have a service- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED to file designations, statements, and connected disability to receive both BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS reports in electronic form. disability compensation from the De- By Mr. WYDEN (for himself and At the request of Mr. CORNYN, his partment of Veterans Affairs for their name was added as a cosponsor of S. disability and either retired pay by Ms. SNOWE): S. 596. A bill to require the Secretary 482, supra. reason of their years of military serv- of Commerce to establish an award pro- S 483 ice or Combat-Related Special Com- . gram to honor achievements in nano- pensation. At the request of Mr. DODD, the technology, and for other purposes; to names of the Senator from California S. 571 the Committee on Commerce, Science, (Mrs. FEINSTEIN) and the Senator from At the request of Mr. MENENDEZ, the and Transportation. Indiana (Mr. LUGAR) were added as co- name of the Senator from New Jersey Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I am sponsors of S. 483, a bill to require the (Mr. LAUTENBERG) was added as a co- pleased to join today with my col- Secretary of the Treasury to mint sponsor of S. 571, a bill to strengthen league from Maine, Senator SNOWE, to coins in commemoration of Mark the Nation’s research efforts to iden- introduce the Nanotechnology Innova- Twain. tify the causes and cure of psoriasis tion and Prize Competition Act of 2009. S. 484 and psoriatic arthritis, expand psori- As Co-Chair of the Congressional At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the asis and psoriatic arthritis data collec- Nanotechnology Caucus, and former name of the Senator from Massachu- tion, and study access to and quality of Chair of the Subcommittee on Science, setts (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a co- care for people with psoriasis and pso- Technology, and Innovation, I have sponsor of S. 484, a bill to amend title riatic arthritis, and for other purposes. worked long and hard to advance U.S. II of the Social Security Act to repeal S. 572 competitiveness in nanotechnology. the Government pension offset and At the request of Mr. WEBB, the name Nanotech is a rapidly developing field windfall elimination provisions. of the Senator from Minnesota (Ms. that offers a wide range of benefits to S. 491 KLOBUCHAR) was added as a cosponsor the country. It can create jobs, expand At the request of Mr. WEBB, the of S. 572, a bill to provide for the the economy, and strengthen Amer- names of the Senator from Maine (Ms. issuance of a ‘‘forever stamp’’ to honor ica’s position as a global leader in tech- SNOWE), the Senator from Florida (Mr. the sacrifices of the brave men and nological innovation. At this time, NELSON) and the Senator from Ala- women of the armed forces who have when older industries are faltering and bama (Mr. SHELBY) were added as co- been awarded the Purple Heart. the economy is struggling, Congress sponsors of S. 491, a bill to amend the S. CON. RES. 6 must act to open new doors, help indus- Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow At the request of Ms. STABENOW, the try to move into new fields, and work Federal civilian and military retirees name of the Senator from New Mexico to unlock new manufacturing poten- to pay health insurance premiums on a (Mr. BINGAMAN) was added as a cospon- tial.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7320 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 Nanotechnology is redefining the ing the complex and pressing problems Food and Drug Administration of the De- global economy and delivering revolu- that America faces today. This bill will partment of Health and Human Services. tionary change through an amazing also spur technological investment and (4) Development of consumer products. array of technological innovations. create jobs here at home. Through this (b) ELIGIBLE PERSON.—An eligible person described in this subsection is— There is virtually no industry that will prize competition, the government will (1) an individual who is— not be improved by the advances that be able to leverage its resources and (A) a citizen or legal resident of the United are possible with nanotechnology. But focus the intellectual and economic ca- States; or to unlock the full benefits of nanotech- pacity of our nation’s best and bright- (B) a member of a group that includes citi- nology’s capabilities, the Federal Gov- est entrepreneurs on finding the big an- zens or legal residents of the United States; ernment must do more to partner with swers we need in the smallest of tech- or our nation’s innovative entrepreneurs, nologies—nanotechnology. (2) an entity that is incorporated and engineers, and scientists. To that end, The Nanotechnology Innovation and maintains its primary place of business in the United States. I am proposing, along with Senator Prize Competition Act creates four priority areas for the establishment of (c) ESTABLISHMENT OF BOARD.— SNOWE, legislation that will create an (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Com- X-Prize competition in nanotechnol- prize competitions: green nanotechnol- merce shall establish a board to administer ogy. ogy, alternative energy applications, the program established under subsection Many people have heard of the X- improvements in human health, and (a). Prize, a recent and high-profile exam- the commercialization of consumer (2) MEMBERSHIP.—The board shall be com- ple of a prize competition like the one products. In each of these areas, nano- posed of not less than 15 and not more than 21 members appointed by the President, of Sen. SNOWE and I are proposing today. technology holds the promise of tremendous breakthroughs if the nec- whom— The X-Prize was established in 1996 and (A) not less than 1 shall— set up a $10 million prize fund for the essary resources are devoted. This competition will make sure we get started (i) be a representative of the interests of first team who could make civilian academic, business, and nonprofit organiza- space flight a reality. The award was as soon as possible on finding those tions; and successfully claimed just eight years breakthroughs. We all know that the (ii) have expertise in— later. But that was not the only competitive spirit is one of the (I) the field of nanotechnology; or achievement the X-Prize accomplished. strengths of our country. This bill will (II) administering award competitions; and During that span of time, the $10 mil- ignite that spirit in nanotech. (B) not less than 1 shall be from each of— (i) the Department of Energy; lion prize stimulated over $100 million Again, I thank my colleague from Maine for her help and cooperation in (ii) the Environmental Protection Agency; in research and development by the (iii) the Food and Drug Administration of competitors. introducing this bill. I also want to thank the Woodrow Wilson Center and the Department of Health and Human Serv- Successful prize competitions are not ices; limited to the X-Prize. We have seen the X-PRIZE Foundation for their (iv) the National Institutes of Health of the value of these kinds of competi- work in helping to develop this bill. I the Department of Health and Human Serv- tions before. One of the most famous look forward to working with the Com- ices; was the Orteig prize, which was to be merce Committee, other members of (v) the National Institute for Occupational awarded to the first person to fly non- the Congressional Nanotechnology Safety and Health of the Department of Health and Human Services; stop across the Atlantic Ocean. Caucus, the Obama Administration, and the entire nanotech community to (vi) the National Institute of Standards Claimed, of course, by Charles Lind- and Technology of the Department of Com- bergh in 1927, the Orteig prize stimu- reauthorize the 21st Century Nanotech- nology Research and Development Act merce; and lated private investment 16 times (vii) the National Science Foundation. in the 111th Congress. greater than the amount of the prize. (d) AWARDS.—Subject to the availability of I urge all my colleagues to support Imagine what kind of explosion in in- appropriations, the board established under innovation and promote entrepre- vestment and innovation we could subsection (c) may make awards under the neurial competition by cosponsoring achieve in nanotechnology with the program established under subsection (a) as this legislation. follows: competition we’re proposing today. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- (1) FINANCIAL PRIZE.—The board may hold a By establishing this nanotechnology sent that the text of the bill be printed financial award competition and award a fi- prize competition, the Federal Govern- in the RECORD. nancial award in an amount determined be- ment will promote public-private co- There being no objection, the text of fore the commencement of the competition operation to spur investment in key the bill was ordered to be placed in the to the first competitor to meet such criteria areas and help solve critical problems. as the board shall establish. RECORD, as follows: The very first prize competition was, in (2) RECOGNITION PRIZE.— S. 596 fact, a Government sponsored competi- (A) IN GENERAL.—The board may recognize Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tion that produced a revolutionary an eligible person for superlative achieve- resentatives of the United States of America in ment in 1 or more nanotechnology applica- technological breakthrough. In 1714, Congress assembled, tions described in subsection (a). the British Parliament established a SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (B) NO FINANCIAL REMUNERATION.—An prize for determining a ship’s longitude This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Nanotech- award under this paragraph shall not include at sea. At the time, the inability to ac- nology Innovation and Prize Competition any financial remuneration. curately determine longitude was caus- Act of 2009’’. (C) NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION ing many ships to become lost. Solving SEC. 2. NANOTECHNOLOGY AWARD PROGRAM. MEDAL RECOMMENDATIONS.—For each eligible this critical problem by creating a (a) PROGRAM ESTABLISHED.—The Secretary person recognized under this paragraph, the competition to find the answer paved of Commerce shall, acting through the Direc- board shall recommend to the Secretary of tor of the National Institute of Standards Commerce that the Secretary recommend to the way to British naval superiority. and Technology, establish a program to the President under section 16(b) of the Ste- Today, other Government sponsored award prizes to eligible persons described in venson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of prize competitions are driving techno- subsection (b) for achievement in 1 or more 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3711) that the President award logical breakthroughs and successes. of the following applications of nanotechnol- the National Technology and Innovation For example, the DARPA Grand Chal- ogy: Medal established under section 16(a) of such lenge and Urban Challenge have stimu- (1) Improvement of the environment, con- Act to such eligible person. lated tremendous advances in re- sistent with the Twelve Principles of Green (e) ADMINISTRATION.— motely-controlled vehicle technology. Chemistry of the Environmental Protection (1) CONTRACTING.—The board established The Nanotechnology Innovation and Agency. under subsection (c) may contract with a pri- (2) Development of alternative energy that vate organization to administer a financial Prize Competition Act is a vital tool to has the potential to lessen the dependence of award competition described in subsection help ensure that public and private re- the United States on fossil fuels. (d)(1). sources will be utilized in a coordi- (3) Improvement of human health, con- (2) SOLICITATION OF FUNDS.—A member of nated way and will be devoted to solv- sistent with regulations promulgated by the the board or any administering organization

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NORS.—The board may allow a donor who is out of the Senate Energy and Natural a private person described in paragraph (2) to The Energy Star Program is a vol- Resources Committee hopefully later participate in the determination of criteria untary program that promotes the de- this month. for an award under subsection (d), but such velopment and sale of highly efficient Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- donor may not solely determine the criteria appliances through labeling and mar- sent that the text of the bill be printed for such award. keting. Among its success stories is the in the RECORD. (4) NO ADVANTAGE FOR DONATION.—A donor dramatic increase in refrigerator effi- There being no objection, the text of who is a private person described in para- ciency and cost savings. The annual op- the bill was ordered to be placed in the graph (2) shall not be entitled to any special erating cost for Energy Star-qualified RECORD, as follows: consideration or advantage with respect to refrigerators has dropped from $243 in participation in a financial award competi- S. 598 tion under subsection (d)(1). the 1970s to $46 today. The Department Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (f) INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.—The Federal of Energy estimates that in 2006, En- resentatives of the United States of America in Government may not acquire an intellectual ergy Star saved almost 5 percent of the Congress assembled, property right in any product or idea by vir- Nation’s electricity demand, helped SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. tue of the submission of such product or idea avoid greenhouse gas emissions equiva- (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as in any competition under subsection (d)(1). lent to 25 million automobiles, and the ‘‘Appliance Standards Improvement Act (g) LIABILITY.—The board established saved consumers more than $14 billion. of 2009’’. under subsection (c) may require a compet- Notwithstanding this record of suc- (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- itor in a financial award competition under tents of this Act is as follows: subsection (d)(1) to waive liability against cess, further increases in the efficiency Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. the Federal Government for injuries and of appliances remains one of the most cost-effective strategies we can pursue Sec. 2. Test procedure petition process. damages that result from participation in Sec. 3. Energy Star program. such competition. to enhance our economic and energy Sec. 4. Petition for amended standards. (h) ANNUAL REPORT.—Each year, the board security. Sec. 5. Portable light fixtures. established under subsection (c) shall submit The bill I am introducing, along with Sec. 6. GU–24 base lamps. to Congress a report on the program estab- Senator MURKOWSKI, would expand the Sec. 7. Study of compliance with energy lished under subsection (a). Department of Energy’s program by es- standards for appliances. (i) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— Sec. 8. Study of direct current electricity (1) IN GENERAL.—There are authorized to be tablishing programs for affordable light fixtures and table and floor supply in certain buildings. appropriated sums for the program estab- Sec. 9. Motor market assessment and com- lished under subsection (a) as follows: lamps. These products are found mercial awareness program. (A) For administration of prize competi- throughout the Nation’s homes and SEC. 2. TEST PROCEDURE PETITION PROCESS. tions under subsection (d), $750,000 for each businesses, and improving their effi- (a) CONSUMER PRODUCTS OTHER THAN AUTO- fiscal year. ciency can have enormous benefits. MOBILES.—Section 323(b)(1) of the Energy (B) For the awarding of a financial prize ACEEE estimates that annual savings Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. award under subsection (d)(1), in addition to would build up to about 4 billion kilo- 6293(b)(1)) is amended— any amounts received under subsection watt hours by 2020, 750 megawatts in (1) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking (e)(2), $2,000,000 for each fiscal year. ‘‘amend’’ and inserting ‘‘publish in the Fed- (2) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts appropriated peak-demand savings, and about $4 billion of savings to consumers for pur- eral Register amended’’; and pursuant to the authorization of appropria- (2) by adding at the end the following: tions under paragraph (1) shall remain avail- chases through the year 2030. ‘‘(B) PETITIONS.— able until expended. The bill would further strengthen the ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any cov- standards program by allowing stake- By Mr. BINGAMAN (for himself ered product, any person may petition the holders to directly petition the Depart- Secretary to conduct a rulemaking— and Ms. MURKOWSKI): ment of Energy to update its test pro- ‘‘(I) to prescribe a test procedure for the S. 598. A bill to amend the Energy cedures and standards and reduce bu- covered product; or Policy and Conservation Act to im- reaucratic delays. The bill would ‘‘(II) to amend the test procedures applica- prove appliance standards, and for strengthen the Energy Star Program ble to the covered product to more accu- other purposes; to the Committee on by adopting several recommendations rately or fully comply with paragraph (3). Energy and Natural Resources. made by the EPA inspector general and ‘‘(ii) DETERMINATION.—The Secretary Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, Consumer Reports, such as improving shall— ‘‘(I) not later than 90 days after the date of today I join with my colleague and the monitoring and enforcement of Energy ranking member of the Committee on receipt of the petition, publish the petition Star compliance. in the Federal Register; and Energy and Natural Resources, Senator Last month, President Obama recog- ‘‘(II) not later than 180 days after the date MURKOWSKI, in introducing S. 598, nized the value and potential of the of receipt of the petition, grant or deny the which is entitled the ‘‘Appliance standards program to meet the Na- petition. Standards Improvement Act of 2009.’’ tion’s economic and energy challenges. ‘‘(iii) BASIS.—The Secretary shall grant a This legislation would enhance our He noted that standards: petition if the Secretary finds that the petition contains evidence that, assuming no economic and energy security, it would will avoid the use of tremendous amounts other evidence was considered, provides an save consumers money, and it will re- of energy; over the next 30 years, the savings adequate basis for determining that an duce greenhouse gas emissions by will approximate the total amount of energy amended test method would more accurately strengthening two Federal programs produced over a 2-year period by all of the or fully comply with paragraph (3). that have a 20-year record of success; coal-fired power plants in the Nation. ‘‘(iv) EFFECT ON OTHER REQUIREMENTS.— that is, the Department of Energy’s This bill is a good foundation on The granting of a petition by the Secretary Appliance Standards Program and the which to expand our energy efficiency under this subparagraph shall create no pre- joint DOE and EPA Energy Star Pro- efforts. It should be part of any com- sumption with respect to the determination gram. prehensive national energy legislation. of the Secretary that the proposed test pro- The Department of Energy’s stand- I look forward to working with energy cedure meets the requirements of paragraph ards program establishes minimum en- efficiency advocates, with industry, my (3). ergy efficiency standards for 35 prod- Senate colleagues, and the administra- ‘‘(v) RULEMAKING.— ucts and phases out the manufacture ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in tion to achieve the full potential for subclause (II), not later than the end of the and sale of the least efficient models these programs and the full benefits of 18-month period beginning on the date of for those products. The American energy efficiency. granting a petition, the Secretary shall pub- Council for an Energy Efficient Econ- We will be holding a hearing, as you lish an amended test method or a determina- omy, ACEEE, estimates that national know, Mr. President, on this bill this tion not to amend the test method.

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‘‘(II) EXTENSION.—The Secretary may ex- Secretary and the Administrator shall up- ‘‘(e) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— tend the period described in subclause (I) for date the agreements described in paragraph There are authorized to be appropriated to 1 additional year. (1), including agreements on provisions that carry out this section— ‘‘(III) DIRECT FINAL RULE.—The Secretary provide— ‘‘(1) to the Department of Energy may adopt a consensus test procedure in ac- ‘‘(A) a clear delineation of the roles and re- $25,000,000 for each fiscal year; and cordance with the direct final rule procedure sponsibilities of each agency that is based on ‘‘(2) to the Environmental Protection established under section 325(p)(4).’’. the resources and areas of expertise of each Agency $100,000,000 for each fiscal year.’’. (b) CERTAIN INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT.—Sec- agency; SEC. 4. PETITION FOR AMENDED STANDARDS. tion 343 of the Energy Policy and Conserva- ‘‘(B) a formal process for high-level deci- Section 325(n) of the Energy Policy and tion Act (42 U.S.C. 6314) is amended— sionmaking that allows each agency to make Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6295(n)) is (1) in subsection (a), by striking paragraph specific programmatic decisions based on the amended— (1) and inserting the following: program approaches of each agency; (1) by redesignating paragraph (3) as para- ‘‘(1) AMENDMENT AND PETITION PROCESS.— ‘‘(C) a facilitated annual planning meeting graph (5); and ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—At least once every 7 that establishes strategic priorities and (2) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- years, the Secretary shall review test proce- goals for the coming year; lowing: dures for all covered equipment and— ‘‘(D) a prescribed course of action to work ‘‘(3) NOTICE OF DECISION.—Not later than ‘‘(i) publish in the Federal Register amend- through differences and disagreements; 180 days after the date of receiving a peti- ed test procedures with respect to any cov- ‘‘(E) a facilitated biannual program review tion, the Secretary shall publish in the Fed- ered equipment, if the Secretary determines conducted by a third-party that— eral Register a notice of, and explanation that amended test procedures would more ‘‘(i) incorporates an assessment of program for, the decision of the Secretary to grant or accurately or fully comply with paragraphs progress, partner acceptance, the achieve- deny the petition. (2) and (3); or ment of program goals, and future strategic ‘‘(4) NEW OR AMENDED STANDARDS.—Not ‘‘(ii) publish notice in the Federal Register planning; and later than 3 years after the date of granting of any determination not to amend a test ‘‘(ii) is evaluated by the Council on Envi- a petition for new or amended standards, the procedure. ronmental Quality, which shall appraise the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Reg- ‘‘(B) PETITIONS.— findings in the review and work with the ister— ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any class agencies to resolve any negative findings; ‘‘(A) a final rule that contains the new or or category of covered equipment, any per- and amended standards; or son may petition the Secretary to conduct a ‘‘(F) a sunset date for the new agreement ‘‘(B) a determination that no new or rulemaking— and a timetable for establishing future amended standards are necessary.’’. ‘‘(I) to prescribe a test procedure for the agreements based on priorities at that SEC. 5. PORTABLE LIGHT FIXTURES. covered equipment; or time.’’. (a) DEFINITIONS.—Section 321 of the Energy ‘‘(II) to amend the test procedures applica- (b) DUTIES.—Section 324A(c) of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6291) ble to the covered equipment to more accu- Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. is amended by adding at the end the fol- rately or fully comply with paragraphs (2) 6294a(c)) is amended— lowing: and (3). (1) in paragraph (6), by striking ‘‘and’’ ‘‘(67) ART WORK LIGHT FIXTURE.—The term ‘‘(ii) DETERMINATION.—The Secretary after the semicolon at the end; shall— (2) in paragraph (7), by striking the period ‘art work light fixture’ means a light fixture ‘‘(I) not later than 90 days after the date of at the end and inserting a semicolon; and designed only to be mounted directly to an receipt of the petition, publish the petition (3) by adding at the end the following: art work and for the purpose of illuminating in the Federal Register; and ‘‘(8)(A) review each product category— that art work. ‘‘(II) not later than 180 days after the date ‘‘(i) at least once every 3 years; or ‘‘(68) LED LIGHT ENGINE.—The term ‘LED of receipt of the petition, grant or deny the ‘‘(ii) when market share for an Energy Star light engine’ or ‘LED light engine with inte- petition. product category reaches 35 percent; gral heat sink’ means a subsystem of an LED ‘‘(iii) BASIS.—The Secretary shall grant a ‘‘(B) based on the review— light fixture that— petition if the Secretary finds that the peti- ‘‘(i) update and publish the Energy Star ‘‘(A) includes 1 or more LED components, tion contains evidence that, assuming no product criteria for the category; or including— other evidence was considered, provides an ‘‘(ii) publish a finding that no update is ‘‘(i) an LED driver power source with elec- adequate basis for determining that an justified with the explanation for the find- trical and mechanical interfaces; and amended test method would more accurately ing; and ‘‘(ii) an integral heat sink to provide ther- promote energy or water use efficiency. ‘‘(C) during the initial review for each mal dissipation; and ‘‘(iv) EFFECT ON OTHER REQUIREMENTS.— product category, establish an alternative ‘‘(B) may be designed to accept additional The granting of a petition by the Secretary market share to trigger subsequent reviews, components that provide aesthetic, optical, under this paragraph shall create no pre- based on product-specific technology and and environmental control. sumption with respect to the determination market attributes; ‘‘(69) LED LIGHT FIXTURE.—The term ‘LED of the Secretary that the proposed test pro- ‘‘(9) require a demonstration of compliance light fixture’ means a complete lighting unit cedure meets the requirements of paragraphs with the Energy Star criteria by qualified consisting of— (2) and (3). products, except that— ‘‘(A) an LED light source with 1 or more ‘‘(v) RULEMAKING.— ‘‘(A) the demonstration shall be conducted LED lamps or LED light engines; and ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in in accordance with appropriate methods de- ‘‘(B) parts— subclause (II), not later than the end of the termined for each product type by the Sec- ‘‘(i) to distribute the light; 18-month period beginning on the date of retary or the Administrator of the Environ- ‘‘(ii) to position and protect the light granting a petition, the Secretary shall pub- mental Protection Agency (as appropriate), source; and lish an amended test method or a determina- including— ‘‘(iii) to connect the light source to election not to amend the test method. ‘‘(i) third-party verification; trical power. ‘‘(II) EXTENSION.—The Secretary may ex- ‘‘(ii) third-party certification; ‘‘(70) LIGHT FIXTURE.—The term ‘light fix- tend the period described in subclause (I) for ‘‘(iii) purchase and testing of products ture’ means a product designed to provide 1 additional year. from the market; or light that includes— ‘‘(III) DIRECT FINAL RULE.—The Secretary ‘‘(iv) other verified testing and compliance ‘‘(A) at least 1 lamp socket; and may adopt a consensus test procedure in ac- approaches; and ‘‘(B) parts— cordance with the direct final rule procedure ‘‘(B) the Secretary or Administrator may ‘‘(i) to distribute the light; established under section 325(p).’’; exempt specific types of products from the ‘‘(ii) position and protect 1 or more lamps; (2) by striking subsection (c); and requirements of this subparagraph if the Sec- and (3) by redesignating subsections (d) and (e) retary or Administrator finds that— ‘‘(iii) to connect 1 or more lamps to a as subsections (c) and (d), respectively. ‘‘(i) the benefits to the Energy Star pro- power supply. SEC. 3. ENERGY STAR PROGRAM. gram of verifying product performance are ‘‘(71) PORTABLE LIGHT FIXTURE.— (a) DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITIES.—Section substantially exceeded by the burdens; or ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘portable light 324A(b) of the Energy Policy and Conserva- ‘‘(ii) there are no benefits to the Energy fixture’ means a light fixture that has a tion Act (42 U.S.C. 6294a(b)) is amended— Star program; and flexible cord and an attachment plug for con- (1) by striking ‘‘Responsibilities’’ and in- ‘‘(10) develop and publish standardized nection to a nominal 120-volt circuit that— serting the following: building energy audit methods.’’. ‘‘(i) allows the user to relocate the product ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Responsibilities’’; and (c) FUNDING.—Section 324A of the Energy without any rewiring; and (2) by adding at the end the following: Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6294a) ‘‘(ii) typically can be controlled with a ‘‘(2) UPDATE.—Not later than 180 days after is amended by adding at the end the fol- switch located on the product or the power the date of enactment of this paragraph, the lowing: cord of the product.

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‘‘(B) EXCLUSIONS.—The term ‘portable light ‘‘(vii) Portable luminaries that have inter- (as amended by section 5(a)) is amended by fixture’ does not include— nal power supplies shall have zero standby adding at the end the following: ‘‘(i) direct plug-in night lights, sun or heat power when the luminaire is turned off. ‘‘(72) GU–24.—The term ‘GU–24’ ’’ means the lamps, medical or dental lights, portable ‘‘(viii) LED light sources shall deliver at designation of a lamp socket, based on a cod- electric hand lamps, signs or commercial ad- least 70 percent of initial lumens for at least ing system by the International Electro- vertising displays, photographic lamps, ger- 25,000 hours. technical Commission, under which— micidal lamps, or light fixtures for marine ‘‘(D)(i) Be equipped with an ANSI-des- ‘‘(A) ‘G’ indicates a holder and socket type use or for use in hazardous locations (as ignated E12, E17, or E26 screw-based socket with 2 or more projecting contacts, such as those terms are defined in ANSI/NFPA 70 of and be prepackaged and sold together with 1 pins or posts; the National Electrical Code); or screw-based compact fluorescent lamp or ‘‘(B) ‘U’ distinguishes between lamp and ‘‘(ii) decorative lighting strings, decorative screw-based LED lamp for each screw-based holder designs of similar type that are not lighting outfits, or electric candles or can- socket on the portable light fixture. interchangeable due to electrical or mechan- delabra without lamp shades that are cov- ‘‘(ii) The compact fluorescent or LED ical requirements; and ered by Underwriter Laboratories (UL) lamps prepackaged with the light fixture ‘‘(C) 24 indicates the distance in millime- standard 588, ‘Seasonal and Holiday Decora- shall be fully compatible with any light fix- ters between the electrical contact posts. tive Products’.’’. ture controls incorporated into the light fix- ‘‘(73) GU-24 ADAPTOR.— (b) COVERAGE.— ture (for example, light fixtures with ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘GU-24 Adap- (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 322(a) of the En- dimmers shall be packed with dimmable tor’ means a 1-piece device, pig-tail, wiring ergy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. lamps). harness, or other such socket or base attach- 6292(a)) is amended— ‘‘(iii) Compact fluorescent lamps pre- ment that— (A) by redesignating paragraph (20) as packaged with light fixtures shall meet the ‘‘(i) connects to a GU-24 socket on 1 end paragraph (21); and requirements of the Energy Star Program and provides a different type of socket or (B) by inserting after paragraph (19) the for CFLs Version 4.0. connection on the other end; and following: ‘‘(iv) Screw-based LED lamps shall comply ‘‘(ii) does not alter the voltage. ‘‘(20) Portable light fixtures.’’. with the minimum requirements described in ‘‘(B) EXCLUSION.—The term ‘GU-24 Adap- (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section subparagraph (C). tor’ does not include a fluorescent ballast 325(l) of the Energy Policy and Conservation ‘‘(E) Be equipped with 1 or more single- with a GU–24 base. Act (42 U.S.C. 6295(l)) is amended by striking ended, non-screw based halogen lamp sockets ‘‘(74) GU–24 BASE LAMP.—‘GU–24 base lamp’ ‘‘paragraph (19)’’ each place it appears in (line or low voltage), a dimmer control or means a light bulb designed to fit in a GU– paragraphs (1) and (2) and inserting ‘‘para- high-low control, and be rated for a max- 24 socket.’’. graph (21)’’. imum of 100 watts. (b) STANDARDS.—Section 325 of the Energy (c) TEST PROCEDURES.—Section 323(b) of EVIEW.— Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6295) the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 ‘‘(2) R (as amended by section 5(d)) is amended by U.S.C. 6293(b)) is amended by adding at the ‘‘(A) REVIEW.—The Secretary shall review inserting after subsection (ii) the following: end the following: the criteria and standards established under paragraph (1) to determine if revised stand- ‘‘(jj) GU–24 BASE LAMPS.— ‘‘(19) LED FIXTURES AND LED LIGHT EN- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—A GU-24 base lamp shall GINES.—Test procedures for LED fixtures and ards are technologically feasible and economically justified. not be an incandescent lamp as defined by LED light engines shall be based on Illu- ANSI. minating Engineering Society of North ‘‘(B) COMPONENTS.—The review shall in- ‘‘(2) GU-24 ADAPTORS.—GU–24 adaptors America test procedure LM-79, Approved clude consideration of whether— shall not adapt a GU–24 socket to any other Method for Electrical and Photometric Test- ‘‘(i) a separate compliance procedure is line voltage socket.’’. ing of Solid-State Lighting Devices.’’. still needed for halogen fixtures described in SEC. 7. STUDY OF COMPLIANCE WITH ENERGY (d) STANDARDS.—Section 325 of the Energy subparagraph (E) and, if necessary, what an Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6295) appropriate standard for halogen fixtures STANDARDS FOR APPLIANCES. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Energy is amended— shall be; shall conduct a study of the degree of com- (1) by redesignating subsection (ii) as sub- ‘‘(ii) the specific technical criteria de- pliance with energy standards for appliances, section (kk); and scribed in subparagraphs (A), (C), and (D)(iii) including an investigation of compliance (2) by inserting after subsection (hh) the should be modified; and rates and options for improving compliance, following: ‘‘(iii) certain fixtures should be exempted including enforcement. ‘‘(ii) PORTABLE LIGHT FIXTURES.— from the light fixture efficacy standard as of (b) REPORT.—Not later than 18 months ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraphs (2) January 1, 2016, because the fixtures are pri- after the date of enactment of this Act, the and (3), portable light fixtures manufactured marily decorative in nature (as defined by Secretary shall submit to the appropriate on or after January 1, 2012, shall meet 1 or the Secretary) and, even if exempted, are committees of Congress a report describing more of the following requirements: likely to be sold in limited quantities. the results of the study, including any rec- ‘‘(A) Be a fluorescent light fixture that ‘‘(C) TIMING.— ommendations. meets the requirements of the Energy Star ‘‘(i) DETERMINATION.—Not later than Janu- ary 1, 2014, the Secretary shall publish SEC. 8. STUDY OF DIRECT CURRENT ELEC- Program for Residential Light Fixtures, TRICITY SUPPLY IN CERTAIN BUILD- Version 4.2. amended standards, or a determination that INGS. ‘‘(B) Be equipped with only 1 or more GU– no amended standards are justified, under (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Energy 24 line-voltage sockets and not be rated for this subsection. shall conduct a study— use with incandescent lamps of any type, as ‘‘(ii) STANDARDS.—Any standards under (1) of the costs and benefits (including sig- defined in ANSI standards. this subsection take effect on January 1, nificant energy efficiency, power quality, ‘‘(C) Be an LED light fixture or a light fix- 2016. and other power grid, safety, and environ- ture with an LED light engine and comply ‘‘(3) ART WORK LIGHT FIXTURES.—Art work mental benefits) of requiring high-quality, with the following minimum requirements: light fixtures manufactured on or after Jan- direct current electricity supply in certain ‘‘(i) Minimum light output: 200 lumens (ini- uary 1, 2012, shall— buildings; and tial). ‘‘(A) comply with paragraph (1); or (2) to determine, if the requirement de- ‘‘(ii) Minimum LED light engine efficacy: ‘‘(B)(i) contain only ANSI-designated E12 scribed in paragraph (1) is imposed, what the 40 lumens/watt installed in fixtures that screw-based line-voltage sockets; policy and role of the Federal government meet the minimum light fixture efficacy of ‘‘(ii) have not more than 3 sockets; should be in realizing those benefits. 29 lumens/watt or, alternatively, a minimum ‘‘(iii) be controlled with an integral high/ (b) REPORT.—Not later than 1 year after LED light engine efficacy of 60 lumens/watt low switch; the date of enactment of this Act, the Sec- for fixtures that do not meet the minimum ‘‘(iv) be rated for not more than 25 watts if retary shall submit to the appropriate com- light fixture efficacy of 29 lumens/watt. fitted with 1 socket; and mittees of Congress a report describing the ‘‘(iii) All portable fixtures shall have a ‘‘(v) be rated for not more than 15 watts results of the study, including any rec- minimum LED light fixture efficacy of 29 per socket if fitted with 2 or 3 sockets. ommendations. lumens/watt and a minimum LED light en- ‘‘(4) EXCEPTION FROM PREEMPTION.—Not- SEC. 9. MOTOR MARKET ASSESSMENT AND COM- gine efficacy of 60 lumens/watt by January 1, withstanding section 327, Federal preemption MERCIAL AWARENESS PROGRAM. 2016. shall not apply to a regulation concerning (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds that— ‘‘(iv) Color Correlated Temperature (CCT): portable light fixtures adopted by the Cali- (1) electric motor systems account for 2700K through 4200K. fornia Energy Commission on or before Jan- about half of the electricity used in the ‘‘(v) Minimum Color Rendering Index uary 1, 2014.’’. United States; (CRI): 75. SEC. 6. GU–24 BASE LAMPS. (2) electric motor energy use is determined ‘‘(vi) Power factor equal to or greater than (a) DEFINITIONS.—Section 321 of the Energy by both the efficiency of the motor and the 0.70. Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6291) system in which the motor operates;

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7324 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 (3) Federal Government research on motor and motor-system components, including sonable burden of proof found in cur- end use and efficiency opportunities is more drives, controls, and driven equipment; and rent law. than a decade old; and (3) criteria for making decisions for new, This legislation is important and (4) the Census Bureau has discontinued col- replacement, or repair motor and motor sys- long overdue. If enacted, it would re- lection of data on motor and generator im- tem components. lieve Federal fire service personnel of portation, manufacture, shipment, and sales. an unnecessary obstacle to receiving (b) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: By Mr. CARPER (for himself and (1) DEPARTMENT.—The term ‘‘Department’’ Ms. COLLINS): the badly needed benefits that they de- means the Department of Energy. S. 599. A bill to amend chapter 81 of serve when they fall ill as a result of (2) INTERESTED PARTIES.—The term ‘‘inter- title 5, United States Code, to create a their inherently hazardous work envi- ested parties’’ includes— presumption that a disability or death ronment. Federal firefighters work at (A) trade associations; of a Federal employee in fire protec- military installations, nuclear facili- (B) motor manufacturers; ties, hospitals, and countless other (C) motor end users; tion activities caused by any certain diseases is the result of the perform- types of Federal facilities. They are (D) electric utilities; and routinely exposed to toxic substances, (E) individuals and entities that conduct ance of such employee’s duty; to the energy efficiency programs. Committee on Homeland Security and biohazards, temperature extremes, and (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ Governmental Affairs. stress. means the Secretary of Energy, in consulta- Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I am As a result, firefighters are far more tion with interested parties. pleased to join Senator CARPER in in- likely to contract heart disease, lung (c) ASSESSMENT.—The Secretary shall con- troducing a bill that would provide disease and cancer than other workers. duct an assessment of electric motors and Federal firefighters with the same dis- Indeed, a number of scientific studies the electric motor market in the United ability protections that millions of have found that firefighters have a States that shall— higher incidence of disease overall than (1) include important subsectors of the in- local firefighters across the Nation currently enjoy. Federal firefighters put the general population. For example, a dustrial and commercial electric motor mar- 2006 study conducted by the University ket (as determined by the Secretary), includ- their lives on the line each day to pro- ing— tect some of our Nation’s most critical of Cincinnati found that exposure to (A) the stock of motors and motor-driven assets and infrastructure, and these soot and toxins creates an increased risk for various cancers among fire- equipment; brave men and women deserve the (B) efficiency categories of the motor pop- fighters. Further, a 2007 Harvard study same occupational safeguards and ben- ulation; and found that firefighters face a risk of efits as their colleagues at the local (C) motor systems that use drives, servos, death from heart attack up to 100 and other control technologies; level. Our Nation’s Federal firefighters times higher when involved in fire sup- (2) characterize and estimate the opportu- pression as compared to non-emer- nities for improvement in the energy effi- have some of the most hazardous jobs gency duties. ciency of motor systems by market segment, in the fire service, but the Federal Gov- It also would not be unprecedented to including opportunities for— ernment does not presume that certain establish a presumption for Federal (A) expanded use of drives, servos, and illnesses associated with firefighting firefighters. Congress has already ex- other control technologies; are job-related. As a result, to qualify tended presumptive benefits to various (B) expanded use of process control, pumps, for disability retirement, a Federal compressors, fans or blowers, and material groups, including Peace Corps volun- handling components; and firefighter who suffers from an occupa- teers, military veterans, and public (C) substitution of existing motor designs tional illness must specify the precise safety officers. with existing and future advanced motor de- exposure that caused his or her ill- Outside the Federal Government, 41 signs, including electronically commutated ness—an almost insurmountable bur- States have already enacted presump- permanent magnet, interior permanent mag- den. tive disability laws for their municipal net, and switched reluctance motors; and The Federal Firefighters Fairness (3) develop an updated profile of motor sys- firefighters. In Maine, for example, the Act of 2009 would alleviate this burden State presumptive benefits law applies tem purchase and maintenance practices, in- by creating a rebuttable presumption cluding surveying the number of companies to heart, lung, and infectious diseases. that have motor purchase and repair speci- that cardiovascular disease, certain It is fundamentally unfair that fire- fications, by company size, number of em- cancers, and certain infectious diseases fighters employed by the Federal Gov- ployees, and sales. contracted by Federal firefighters are ernment are not eligible for disability (d) RECOMMENDATIONS; UPDATE.—Based on job-related for purposes of workers’ retirement for the same occupational the assessment conducted under subsection compensation and disability retire- diseases as their municipal counter- (c), the Secretary shall— ment. parts. This disparity is especially glar- (1) develop— Such a presumption will not guar- ing in instances where Federal fire- (A) recommendations to update the de- antee that Federal firefighters will re- fighters work alongside municipal fire- tailed motor profile on a periodic basis; ceive any disability benefits. This leg- (B) methods to estimate the energy savings fighters during mutual aid responses and market penetration that is attributable islation would simply switch the bur- and are exposed to the same hazardous to the Save Energy Now Program of the De- den of proof from the sick Federal fire- conditions, as was the case in the re- partment; and fighter and his family to the Federal sponse to Hurricane Katrina. (C) recommendations for the Director of agency employing him. If the Federal Government wants to the Census Bureau on market surveys that Thus, as a practical matter, if the be able to recruit and retain qualified should be undertaken in support of the Federal employing agency can dem- firefighters, it must be able to offer a motor system activities of the Department; onstrate that a firefighter’s illness benefits package that is competitive and likely had another cause, then such an with the municipal sector, including (2) prepare an update to the Motor Master+ illness will not be considered job-re- program of the Department. having occupational illness covered by (e) PROGRAM.—Based on the assessment, lated. For example, an agency that em- worker’s compensation. recommendations, and update required under ploys a firefighter who smokes and has This legislation is supported by many subsections (c) and (d), the Secretary shall contracted lung cancer would be able of the fire service groups, such as the establish a proactive, national program tar- to rebut the presumption that the can- International Association of Fire- geted at motor end-users and delivered in co- cer was caused by firefighting. There- fighters, the International Association operation with interested parties to increase fore, I believe this legislation contains of Fire Chiefs, the National Volunteer awareness of — appropriate protections against those Fire Council, the National Fire Protec- (1) the energy and cost-saving opportuni- illnesses that may be caused by activities in commercial and industrial facilities tion Association, and the Congres- using higher efficiency electric motors; ties other than firefighting, providing sional Fire Services Institute. (2) improvements in motor system procure- agencies with a fair opportunity to The Federal Firefighters Fairness ment and management procedures in the se- challenge claims without requiring in- Act is a straightforward matter of eq- lection of higher efficiency electric motors jured firefighters to meet the unrea- uity and sound policy. I believe this

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7325 bill merits the support of every Sen- There is a growing consensus that points. I understand she testified be- ator, and I am proud to be an original the SEC must move quickly to rein- fore the Banking Committee in Feb- cosponsor. It is for these and other rea- state the uptick rule. Everyone is talk- ruary and that she intends, as quickly sons that I urge my colleagues to sup- ing about it. Everyone seems to sup- as possible, to engage in a full review port the Federal Firefighter Fairness port it. Everyone believes the SEC of the SEC’s actions with respect to Act of 2009. needs to put on the brakes and stop short selling, including an evaluation those who dump millions of shares they of why the uptick rule should be rein- By Mr. KAUFMAN (for himself, don’t own to drive prices down. Abu- stated. I also understand the SEC is Mr. ISAKSON, and Mr. TESTER): sive short selling amounts to gasoline scheduled to meet soon to discuss ways S. 605. A bill to require the Securities on the fire for distressed stocks and to reform short selling practices. and Exchange Commission to reinstate distressed markets. Abusive short sell- We need quick action to restore in- the uptick rule and effectively regulate ing happens when traders and hedge vestor confidence. That is why I, along abusive short selling activities; to the funds sell stock shares they don’t have with Senator ISAKSON of Georgia, am Committee on Banking, Housing, and and won’t be able to deliver. introducing a bill today that would di- Urban Affairs. Let me make myself clear: The prob- rect the SEC to write regulations ad- Mr. KAUFMAN. Mr. President, the lem isn’t short selling itself. Short sell- dressing abusive short sales. We believe American people have lost literally ing can actually enhance market effi- that restoring the uptick rule is nec- trillions of dollars as a result of the ciency and provide the market with in- essary, but not sufficient, to end abu- meltdown of our financial markets. formation it needs to set prices at ap- sive short selling. This is a disaster of monumental and propriate levels. The problem is that Our bipartisan bill would direct the unprecedented proportions. under current rules, short sellers are SEC to write regulations within 60 Think of the retirees who have lost allowed to sell stocks they haven’t ac- days that accomplish five things to end more than half their savings and who tually borrowed in advance of their the abusive short selling. One: Rein- lie awake at night worrying about how short sale and with no uptick rule in state the substance of that portion of they are going to make it. Think of the place as a circuit breaker. This in turn its prior regulations that prohibited parents who can no longer afford to frequently means they all too often short sales that are not made on an in- send their children to the college of simply fail to deliver the stocks they crease in the price of the stock. This their choice or even to college at all. have supposedly sold. Abusive short prevents short sellers from piling on Think of the business men and women sales expose sellers and those linked to declining stock, driving prices down. who will cancel investments or lay off their short sales to the risk that when Two: Require trades by short sellers workers because they cannot raise cap- settlement day arrives, the short seller of securities to yield priority and pref- ital—hopes crushed, dreams denied, won’t have the necessary shares avail- erence to transactions effected by long plans canceled, opportunities lost. able. That harms the market and mar- sellers of securities. This would require We need to restore the strength of ket participants, particularly when exchanges and other trading venues to the financial markets. We need to re- failure to deliver persists for substan- execute the trades of long sellers in- build the confidence in our economy tial periods as statistics show they stead of short sellers, all other things and in our markets so we can restore clearly have. being equal. those losses. We all look forward to the We have the opportunity to have the Third: With the concurrence of the day when wealth and employment in SEC become a can-do agency once Secretary of the Treasury and the America are growing again. There are more. Under the leadership of Chair- Chairman of the Board of Governors of many things we must do to make that woman Shapiro, the SEC needs to move the Federal Reserve System, prohibit happen. at a pace to protect investors and re- short sales of the securities of any fi- Foremost, we must rescue, reform, store investor confidence. nancial institution unless the trade is and recapitalize our banking system. I believe the SEC must impose at effected at a price, in minimum lots In the Judiciary Committee, we moved least two important changes. It must specified by the Commission, at least 5 on March 5 to restore investor con- reestablish the uptick rule and it must cents higher than the immediately pre- fidence by reporting S. 386, the Fraud establish a mandatory, marketwide, ceding transaction in such securities. and Enforcement Recovery Act. Chair- pre-borrow requirement to sell shares Our financial sector and financial man LEAHY, Senator GRASSLEY, Sen- short. stocks are in a fragile state and our ator SCHUMER, Senator KLOBUCHAR, and As for the uptick rule, that rule held taxpayers now hold substantial shares I pressed this legislation forward be- us in good stead for 70 years. It was in many institutions. If the Treasury cause we needed to ensure that the first established in 1938 and the SEC and the Fed believe they need addi- Justice Department, the FBI, and eliminated it in July 2007. In my view— tional protection in these times, this other law enforcement agencies have and I am not alone—it should never legislation permits it. the resources they need to find, pros- have been repealed. The uptick rule is Four: Prohibit any person from sell- ecute, and jail those who have com- especially helpful when the market is ing securities short unless that person mitted financial fraud. falling. It simply requires short sellers has at the time of the short sale a de- Our markets will flourish again only to take a breath and wait for an in- monstrable legally enforceable right to when investors are confident that the crease in price before continuing to sell deliver the securities at the required market will be held accountable to the shares short. Establishing a manda- delivery date. Under current law, many law. This is one step we must take. tory, marketwide pre-borrow require- short sellers fail to deliver. We must I am here today to talk about an- ment would simply require short sell- tighten up the rules. other urgently needed piece of the ers to demonstrate at the time of the Five: Require that all short sales set- much larger project of restoring con- sale that they have a legally enforce- tle in the same timeframe employed fidence in our capital markets: We able right to deliver the shares of stock for long sales of the same securities. must stop the artificial manipulation at the required delivery date. To per- There is no reason short sellers should of stock prices. We must stop the abu- mit short sellers to sell shares they have 13 days to deliver shares when sive short selling of securities. don’t have turns our capital markets long sellers have only 3 days. I am convinced that the SEC must into gambling casinos where these I look forward to hearing from Chair restore the uptick rule and issue regu- ‘‘naked’’ short sellers profit if the price Shapiro soon about the conclusions of lations that effectively ban abusive goes down and fail to deliver if the her review and the actions the SEC in- short selling. Abusive short selling is price doesn’t. The time has come for tends to take to stop these harmful ac- tantamount to fraud and market ma- that practice to stop. tivities that are preventing our mar- nipulation and must be stopped. The I wrote to the SEC Chair Mary Sha- kets from returning to a sound footing. uptick rule must be restored now. piro on March 3 making these same In the meantime, Senator ISAKSON and

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7326 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 I believe the Senate should move for- Georgia join me. The uptick rule and mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and ward with this legislation directing the short selling is not a partisan issue; it Forestry be authorized to meet during SEC to take action now. In the end, I is a bipartisan issue. We can work to- the session of the Senate on Monday, hope the SEC will move quickly on its gether to get this right. March 16, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. in SC–4 of own to take these actions urgently, It is time to send a clear message to the Capitol. and now. investors, to people who want to invest The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Mr. President, I yield the floor. in our markets, that the markets are objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- fair and they have an opportunity and COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS they are going to get a chance at a ator from Georgia. Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I ask level playing field. Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I rise unanimous consent that the Com- first to commend the distinguished Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed mittee on Foreign Relations be author- Senator from Delaware, Mr. KAUFMAN, ized to meet during the session of the on a very appropriate bill at a very ap- in the RECORD. There being no objection, the text of Senate on Monday, March 16, 2009 at 10 propriate time in our country. I am a.m. proud to be an original cosponsor of the bill was ordered to be printed in the RECORD, as follows: The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without this legislation. objection, it is so ordered. History teaches us good lessons and, S. 605 as the Senator said, for 70 years, until Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- f July of 2007, the uptick rule served the resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR American investor, the American SECTION 1. REINSTATEMENT REQUIRED. Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I ask banking industry, and the traders of Not later than 60 days after the date of en- America well, because it protected it unanimous consent that Michael actment of this Act, the Securities and Ex- Gauthier, who is a National Park Serv- from a very dangerous thing happening change Commission (in this Act referred to which happened beginning in Sep- as the ‘‘Commission’’) shall— ice fellow working on the staff of the tember of last year. Everybody in this (1) reinstate the substance of that portion Committee on Energy and Natural Re- room will remember the markets of of the regulations in effect on July 5, 2007, sources this year, be granted the privi- last fall. What happened is we hit some that prohibited short sales not effected on a lege of the floor for today and for the plus tick; unsettling times. We in fact passed the remainder of the Senate’s consider- (2) rescind rule 201 of regulation SHO, at ation of H.R. 146. TARP stabilization bill. The markets section 242.201 of title 17, Code of Federal began to climb. I e-mailed Chris Cox, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Regulations, as in effect on the date of en- objection, it is so ordered. who was the then-Chair of the SEC, the actment of this Act; position Mrs. Shapiro now holds. I sent (3) require trades by short sellers of securi- f him an e-mail begging him to please ties to yield priority and preference to trans- JOINT REFERRAL reinstate the uptick rule. They took a actions effected by long sellers of securities; brief look at it, suspended it for a few (4) with the concurrence of the Secretary of the Treasury and the Chairman of the days, and then let it stay. What hap- Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve NOMINATION OF THOMAS L. pened was hedge funds and other trad- System, prohibit short sales of the securities STRICKLAND ers coming in to cash in were taking of any financial institution, unless that the downward spiral of stocks and trade is effected at a price (in minimum lots, Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, as if banks and financial institutions in the as specified by the Commission) that is at in executive session, I ask unanimous country and making money off the de- least 5¢ higher than the immediately pre- consent that the nomination of Thom- mise and the decline of those stocks, ceding transaction in such securities; as L. Strickland to be Assistant Sec- all because there was no protection so (5) adopt such rules and regulations, con- retary of Fish and Wildlife, sent to the sistent with paragraphs (1) through (4), as Senate by the President on March 12, that they couldn’t feed off a downward necessary to prohibit any person from engag- spiral. The uptick rule, as well ex- 2009, be jointly referred to the Commit- ing in any conduct that artificially would tees on Environment and Public Works plained by the Senator from Delaware, create a plus tick or satisfy the price re- simply provides a cushion to discour- quirements set forth in the short sales regu- and Energy and Natural Resources. age those who would exploit a dan- lations of the Commission; and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without gerous and difficult market and make (6) take such other actions as may be nec- objection, it is so ordered. money at the expense of the American essary or appropriate to make the regulation f people. of short sales by the Commission consistent with the requirements of this Act. ORDERS FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 17, Senator KAUFMAN has introduced a SEC. 2. MANDATORY SETTLEMENT PREPARED- 2009 piece of legislation that is right for NESS REQUIREMENT. America, it is right for America’s in- Not later than 60 days after the date of en- Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, I ask vestors, and it is right for our stock actment of this Act, the Commission shall unanimous consent that when the Sen- market as it still languishes today issue regulations prohibiting any person ate completes its business today, it ad- somewhere down near what we hope is from selling securities short, unless that per- journ until 10 a.m. tomorrow, Tuesday, the bottom. One way to ensure that son demonstrates, at the time of the sale, March 17; that following the prayer and that such person possesses, at the time of the the pledge, the Journal of proceedings bottom exists is to stop rewarding sale, a demonstrable, legally enforceable those who would feed off of it and in- right to deliver the securities at the required be approved to date, the morning hour stead reinstate good discipline that en- delivery date. be deemed expired, the time for the two sures good practices and allows the SEC. 3. MANDATORY SETTLEMENT TIMES FOR leaders be reserved for their use later market to restore itself back to a good SHORT SALES. in the day, and there then be a period equilibrium. Not later than 60 days after the date of en- for the transaction of morning business I commend Senator KAUFMAN on the actment of this Act, the Commission shall for up to 1 hour, with Senators per- issue regulations to require that all short mitted to speak for up to 10 minutes introduction of the legislation. I am sales settle on the same time frame em- honored that he asked me to cosponsor ployed for long sales of the same securities. each, with the time equally divided and it and I am proud to do so. I hope the controlled between the two leaders or f Senate will expeditiously deal with it, their designees, with the majority con- not in the interests of Senator KAUF- AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO trolling the first half and the Repub- MAN or myself, but in the interests of MEET licans controlling the second half; fur- the American people who are looking COMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE, NUTRITION, AND ther, that following morning business, to us for answers in difficult times. FORESTRY the Senate resume consideration of the Mr. KAUFMAN. Mr. President, I am Mr. BINGAMAN. Mr. President, I ask motion to proceed to H.R. 146, the leg- honored to have the Senator from unanimous consent that the Com- islative vehicle for the lands package;

VerDate Mar 15 2010 12:56 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0686 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\S16MR9.000 S16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—SENATE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7327 and, finally, I ask unanimous consent fore the Senate, I ask unanimous con- PROTECTION AGENCY, VICE JEFFREY R. HOLMSTEAD, RESIGNED. that the Senate recess from 12:30 p.m. sent that it stand adjourned under the to 2:15 p.m. to allow for the weekly previous order. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY caucus luncheons. There being no objection, the Senate, KIM N. WALLACE, OF TEXAS, TO BE A DEPUTY UNDER The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without at 6:27 p.m., adjourned until Tuesday, SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY, VICE KEVIN I. FROMER, objection, it is so ordered. March 17, 2009, at 10 a.m. RESIGNED. f f DEPARTMENT OF STATE NOMINATIONS DEMETRIOS J. MARANTIS, OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUM- PROGRAM BIA, TO BE A DEPUTY UNITED STATES TRADE REP- Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, to- Executive nominations received by RESENTATIVE, WITH THE RANK OF AMBASSADOR, VICE PETER F. ALLGEIER, RESIGNED. morrow the Senate will resume the Senate: postcloture debate on the motion to DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT proceed to the legislative vehicle for GARY LOCKE, OF WASHINGTON, TO BE SECRETARY OF R. GIL KERLIKOWSKE, OF WASHINGTON, TO BE DIREC- the lands package. COMMERCE. TOR OF NATIONAL DRUG CONTROL POLICY, VICE JOHN P. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION WALTERS, RESIGNED. f ROY W. KIENITZ, OF PENNSYLVANIA, TO BE UNDER DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION FOR POLICY, VICE TOMORROW JEFFREY SHANE, RESIGNED. LADDA TAMMY DUCKWORTH, OF ILLINOIS, TO BE AN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (PUBLIC Ms. MIKULSKI. Mr. President, if AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS), VICE LISETTE M. REGINA MCCARTHY, OF MASSACHUSETTS, TO BE AN MONDELLO, RESIGNED. there is no further business to come be- ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL

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The House met at 12:30 p.m. and was gress. You alone know the faith and THE DEMOCRAT BUDGET: TAXING, called to order by the Speaker pro tem- dedication of these silent workers. SPENDING, AND BORROWING TOO pore (Ms. EDWARDS of Maryland). Hidden from the public eye, they can MUCH f never be taken for granted. Each, in his (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- or her own way, serves the Nation and, mission to address the House for 1 DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO through their faithfulness, gives You minute and to revise and extend her re- TEMPORE glory. marks.) The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- Bless them, Lord, their work and Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, the Demo- fore the House the following commu- their families. Hear their prayers and crat budget spends too much, taxes too nication from the Speaker: reward them with Your love and com- much, and borrows too much. WASHINGTON, DC, passion, now and forever. Last week we talked about the mas- March 16, 2009. Amen. sive increase in government spending I hereby appoint the Honorable DONNA F. President Obama is planning, the larg- EDWARDS to act as Speaker pro tempore on f est since World War II. this day. This week we will tell you how they NANCY PELOSI, THE JOURNAL plan to pay for all this new government Speaker of the House of Representatives. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The spending—with the largest tax increase f Chair has examined the Journal of the in American history. last day’s proceedings and announces The Democrats’ budget will raise MORNING-HOUR DEBATE to the House his approval thereof. taxes by $1.4 trillion on American fami- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- lies and businesses over the next 10 ant to the order of the House of Janu- nal stands approved. years. President Obama promised a tax ary 6, 2009, the Chair will now recog- cut for most Americans, but he raises nize Members from lists submitted by f energy taxes on 100 percent of Ameri- the majority and minority leaders for cans. The Democrats’ budget will put a morning-hour debate. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE new tax on charitable giving that could The Chair will alternate recognition The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the cost American charities as much as $16 between the parties, with each party gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. billion a year. This will harm numer- limited to 30 minutes and each Mem- FOXX) come forward and lead the House ous organizations at a time when many ber, other than the majority and mi- in the Pledge of Allegiance. of these groups are now struggling with nority leaders and the minority whip, Ms. FOXX led the Pledge of Alle- the economic downturn. limited to 5 minutes. giance as follows: This is the wrong direction, Mr. Speaker. We need to stop this spending, f I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Repub- taxing, and borrowing. RECESS lic for which it stands, one nation under God, f indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- CONGRATULATING THE ARKANSAS ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair f EDUCATION TELEVISION NETWORK declares the House in recess until 2 (Mr. BOOZMAN asked and was given p.m. today. COMMUNICATION FROM THE permission to address the House for 1 Accordingly (at 12 o’clock and 32 CLERK OF THE HOUSE minute and to revise and extend his re- minutes p.m.), the House stood in re- The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- marks.) cess until 2 p.m. fore the House the following commu- Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise f nication from the Clerk of the House of today to congratulate the Arkansas Representatives: Educational Television Network. b 1400 This important resource for Arkan- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, AFTER RECESS Washington, DC, March 13, 2009. sans was recently recognized for its commitment to education by the Cor- The recess having expired, the House Hon. NANCY PELOSI, Speaker, The Capitol, poration For Public Broadcasting, was called to order by the Speaker pro House of Representatives, Washington, DC. awarding AETN with a My Source tempore (Mr. JACKSON of Illinois) at 2 DEAR MADAM SPEAKER: Pursuant to the Community Impact Award for Edu- p.m. permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II cation for its Spring Break Family Day f of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- that was designed to encourage chil- tives, the Clerk received the following mes- dren to learn and be physically active PRAYER sage from the Secretary of the Senate on March 13, 2009, at 9:09 a.m.: through PBS characters, educational The Chaplain, the Reverend Daniel P. That the Senate passed S. 338. games, crafts, and contests. Coughlin, offered the following prayer: That the Senate passed S. 39. I am proud to support this fine orga- Lord God, our Hope and our Salva- That the Senate passed without amend- nization and its mission. AETN offers tion, You go ahead of us and prepare a ment H. Con. Res. 37. lifelong learning opportunities to our place for us. Appointments: community and provides programming Here on Capitol Hill, there are count- United States Senate Caucus on Inter- and services that enrich the lives of Ar- less workers, from carpenters to staff national Narcotics Control. kansans. For its innovative efforts and writers, pages, clerks, Parliamentar- Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial Commis- sion. committed response to the diverse edu- ians, electricians, and others, who With best wishes, I am, cational needs of our community, it is work behind the scenes. Sincerely, clear AETN is deserving of this honor. They prepare this institution for the LORRAINE C. MILLER, With the help of organizations like work of the elected Members of Con- Clerk of the House. this, our community is building a

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.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7329 brighter future for our children. I am (H.R. 987) to designate the facility of In April of 2008, John learned that his glad to see that this station, which the United States Postal Service lo- cancer had spread and that, most like- plays such an important role in our cated at 601 8th Street in Freedom, ly, he had only a few months to live. State, has been recognized on the na- Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘John Scott Nevertheless, John never ceased to live tional level. I commend the employees Challis, Jr. Post Office’’. his life to the fullest and do what he for their good work and wish them con- The Clerk read the title of the bill. loved most, which was spending time tinued success for the 2009 Spring The text of the bill is as follows: with his family and friends and playing Break Family Day. H.R. 987 and following the game of baseball. f Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- On April 14, 2008, John first received national attention when he was able to WE SHOULD PRAISE, NOT INSULT, resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, pinch-hit for his beloved Freedom High LAW ENFORCEMENT SECTION 1. JOHN SCOTT CHALLIS, JR. POST OF- School baseball team in a game against (Mr. SMITH of Texas asked and was FICE. Aliquippa High. John cracked the first- given permission to address the House (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the pitch fastball into the outfield for an for 1 minute and to revise and extend United States Postal Service located at 601 RBI single, and upon making it to first his remarks.) 8th Street in Freedom, Pennsylvania, shall base proudly exclaimed to everyone, ‘‘I Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, be known and designated as the ‘‘John Scott did it, I did it.’’ Challis, Jr. Post Office’’. the Wall Street Journal recently re- The following month, John graduated (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, ported that Speaker PELOSI called map, regulation, document, paper, or other with his senior class. And in June of work site arrests and deportation of il- record of the United States to the facility re- last year, John was able to take a fam- legal workers ‘‘un-American.’’ ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to ily vacation with his devoted parents, That’s quite a powerful word: ‘‘unbe a reference to the ‘‘John Scott Challis, Jr. Scott and Gina, and his younger sister, American.’’ And it’s quite a spectacle Post Office’’. Lexie. He also visited the Pittsburgh to have the Speaker of the United The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Pirates Clubhouse and reminded the States House of Representatives call ant to the rule, the gentleman from players to cherish the game of baseball the actions of our law enforcement Massachusetts (Mr. LYNCH) and the and, of course, to cherish life. men and women ‘‘un-American.’’ gentleman from California (Mr. ISSA) Regrettably, John lost his battle We should praise them, not insult with cancer in August of 2008. However, them, for enforcing our immigration each will control 20 minutes. The Chair recognizes the gentleman his memory and inspirational message laws. will never be forgotten. In John’s Twelve million Americans are out of from Massachusetts. honor, the John Challis Courage For work. Seven million illegal workers GENERAL LEAVE Life Foundation was established in hold jobs that should go to citizens and Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- 2008. The organization is dedicated to legal immigrant workers. imous consent that all Members may Let’s let the American people decide have 5 legislative days within which to providing sports opportunities to stu- what is ‘‘un-American.’’ We should not revise and extend their remarks. dent athletes with life-threatening ill- criticize law enforcement personnel. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there nesses. Mr. Speaker, it is my hope that we Instead, we should be grateful for the objection to the request of the gen- can further serve to honor John’s life job they do. tleman from Massachusetts? through the passage of this legislation There was no objection. f before us. I urge my colleagues to join Mr. LYNCH. I now yield myself such RECESS me in supporting H.R. 987. time as I may consume. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair support for the consideration of H.R. declares the House in recess subject to such time as I may consume. 987, a bill to designate the United Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support the call of the Chair. States postal facility located at 601 8th Accordingly (at 2 o’clock and 6 min- of designating the facility of the Street in Freedom, Pennsylvania, as United States Postal Service at 601 8th utes p.m.), the House stood in recess the John Scott Challis, Jr. Post Office. subject to the call of the Chair. Street in Freedom, Pennsylvania, the Introduced by Representative JASON John Scott Challis, Jr., Post Office. f ALTMIRE on February 11, 2009, and re- And I particularly agree with the b 1600 ported out of the Oversight and Gov- gentleman from Massachusetts and ernment Reform Committee on March AFTER RECESS share his belief that courage plus be- 10, 2009, by a voice vote, H.R. 987 enjoys lieve equals life. This simple but pro- The recess having expired, the House the support of the entire Pennsylvania found equation is more than an inspira- was called to order by the Speaker pro House delegation. tional quote. It’s a testament to the tempore (Mr. JACKSON of Illinois) at 4 As recently noted in the Ellwood character and the life of its creator, p.m. City Ledger, John Scott Challis, Jr., John Challis. Born in Beaver County, f ‘‘came into this world fighting.’’ Only 2 Pennsylvania, John’s life was too ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER days after his birth on December 16, short, but not without meaning. PRO TEMPORE 1989, John was helicoptered from The Mr. Speaker, often we name post of- Medical Center in Beaver County to fices after individuals who have lived a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- long and significant life, sometimes ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, will postpone further proceedings where he spent 16 days in hospital care former Members of Congress, Presi- today on motions to suspend the rules and received lifesaving surgery. dents and the like. Today we are nam- on which a recorded vote or the yeas As his beloved family and friends in ing after someone whose life was cut and nays are ordered, or on which the Beaver County, and as many of us off altogether too soon. In fact, after vote is objected to under clause 6 of across the Nation well know, John only 18 years, it is unusual that we rule XX. never stopped fighting throughout his would name a post office after some- Record votes on postponed questions young life, even after being diagnosed body, but John went that extra mile to will be taken after 6:30 p.m. today. with hepatocellular carcinoma, an inspire America, reaching national adult form of liver cancer, at the age of prominence because, in fact, he would f 16. John’s response to his initial diag- not quit, defying the odds by standing JOHN SCOTT CHALLIS, JR. POST nosis was indicative of his eternal de- on a baseball field when most would be OFFICE termination and resolve, as well as a too weak to get out of bed and making Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I move to reflection of his own personal motto of the decision that he was going to live suspend the rules and pass the bill ‘‘courage and believe equals life.’’ his every dream as best he could.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7330 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 John did that, and his life will be an through his deep Catholic beliefs, John be- John is a kid with cancer, a senior at Free- inspiration for as long as that plaque lieves he has ‘figured it out.’ When asked dom in Beaver County who was told a few shall be at the post office. Today we where he gained his wisdom, he answered, weeks ago by doctors that cancer was win- honor that. ‘Through cancer.’ ’’ ning and it was close to the end. The disease Despite his illness, John made the most of that started in his liver was now taking over Mr. Speaker, I have been up here for his lungs. many, many postal namings, and once every day he had. Although he was too ill to ‘‘They said it could be only two months,’’ in a while I get comments from back play sports, Freedom baseball coach Steve he said, fighting back tears. home saying ‘‘why do you spend so Wetzel invited John to join the team and be- He paused before his seemingly never-end- much time naming post offices?’’ And I came one of John’s closest friends. ing optimism came through again. guess the short answer is, Mr. Speaker, In battling cancer, John had come up with a ‘‘I told my mom I still think I can get two because we can. message: ‘‘Courage Plus Believe Equals Life.’’ more years.’’ It was a message that along with his name, he But his story isn’t about dying. It’s about But also, the longer answer is be- inspiring. cause we have so many examples of inscribed on the inside of his baseball cap. His His story, words, actions, beliefs and cour- people like John Challis who, in fact, teammates followed suit. age have become known around Freedom and exemplify all that is good in America. Then came the moment John had been surrounding areas in Beaver County, bring- All that gives us hope for the future, waiting for, his opportunity to play. Coach ing people together from other communities all that, in fact, allows us every day to Wetzel asked John to pinch-hit in a game and other schools. know that through these troubled against Aliquippa. John wasted no time. On Three weeks ago, Freedom baseball coach times, these economic problems, the the first pitch, John hit a single to right field Steve Wetzel organized ‘‘Walk For A Cham- that scored a run. pion’’ on Freedom High’s school grounds. recession that’s before America today, The purpose of the walk-a-thon was to raise that there are people who get up every After the game, John’s story and message garnered national attention. He was featured money for one of John’s wishes—a last vaca- morning, no matter how hard it is, and tion with his mom, dad and 14-year-old sis- they do the best they can with the on ESPN, invited to speak at a Pirates game, ter, Alexis. time that God gives them and with the and watched the Penguins in their Stanley More than 500 people took part, including power that they have. Cup playoff run. baseball teams from eight Beaver County John was, in every sense, a survivor, Unfortunately, John lost this battle to cancer high schools and members of Center High and he is survived by his parents and a on August 19, 2008. But he left us with an im- School’s football team. John also used to portant legacy. In his last few months, John play football at Freedom. younger sister who live on in his mem- Mr. Wetzel, who calls the teen his hero, ory and who, in fact, will, for the time was quoted as saying, ‘‘Life ain’t about how many breaths you take. It’s what you do with hoped to raise $6,000. That total was easily that this post office is in their town, surpassed ‘‘and people are still calling with realize that inspirations are important those breaths.’’ donations,’’ he said. to America, particularly in difficult John was an inspiration to me, to his local The family has booked a cruise for June. community, and to the lives he touched. He times. THE CHALLIS EFFECT So I join with the majority today will always be remembered. However, even after his death, his inspira- A Beaver County church had planned a asking that this unusual naming of a fundraiser, but John and his family asked tion and work continue. Last summer, John post office be passed because John’s the church instead to conduct the event and helped to start a foundation, the Courage for life was so special to America, and be- give the money to a fifth-grade boy in Bea- Life Foundation, to help other student athletes cause, at a time like this, inspiration is ver County who has a brain tumor. with life-threatening illnesses be involved in ‘‘His family can use it more than we can,’’ important to all. sporting events. John said. ‘‘That’s just common sense. I yield back the balance of my time. I have a few articles about John’s life and Someone does something good for you, then Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, before his impact on those he touched. I ask unani- you help someone else.’’ closing, I would like to mention that Actions and statements like those are mous consent to enter them into the RECORD. the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Chairman what has inspired so many others. All of Ali- ALTMIRE) who is the chief sponsor, the quippa’s baseball players wear John’s jersey TOWNS, for the opportunity to honor John lead sponsor of the bill under consider- number ‘‘11’’ on their hats. At the walk- Challis. athon, Aliquippa star athlete Jonathan Bald- ation, has informed me that he is en [From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, May 4, route. He has informed us that he re- win, a Pitt football recruit, presented him 2008] with a ball signed by Pitt players. grets not being able to be here for this TEEN IS RUNNING OUT OF INNINGS, BUT THE After the walk, John addressed the crowd. afternoon’s discussion but has asked GAME STILL ISN’T OVER ‘‘He spoke from his heart,’’ Mr. Wetzel, the that his support for the bill and the (By Mike White) coach, said. ‘‘He said, ‘I’ve got two options. I Challis family be known. The 18-year-old kid dying of cancer gets his know I’m going to die, so I can either sit at In closing, I urge my colleagues to wish, a chance to swing a bat maybe one last home and feel sorry, or I could spread my join myself, Representative ALTMIRE time in a real baseball game. message to everybody to live life to the full- and the gentleman from California in He hasn’t played in a few years, but he’s est and help those in need.’ After hearing supporting H.R. 987. called on to pinch-hit. His eyes light up at that, I don’t know if there were many people not crying.’’ Mr. ALTMIRE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in the first pitch and he puts all of his 5-foot- 5, 93-pound frame into one mighty swing, Last Thursday, Beaver pitcher Manny support of my bill to rename the Freedom Post making contact and sending a line drive into Cutlip tossed a three-hitter against Freedom Office honor of John Scott Challis, Jr. right field for a single—if he can reach first as John watched in street clothes. After the John Challis inspired all of us with his deter- base. The cancer he’s been battling for al- game, every Beaver player came up to him mination to live every single day to the fullest. most two years has spread to his pelvis, and shook his hand. Some hugged him and On June 23, 2006, John was diagnosed with making running nearly impossible. some said they were praying for him. Manny liver cancer. He was only 16 and had just The kid worries about falling as he hustles Cutlip asked Mr. Wetzel if he could go to completed sophomore year at Freedom High down the first-base line. When he gets to the lunch some time with John. It happened the next day. School. base, he lets out with a yell. ‘‘I did it! I did it!’’ ‘‘I don’t know what to say. I just wanted to John and his family had a lot of questions Safe at first with a hit and an RBI, the kid get to know him better and see if I could after the cancer diagnosis: questions for the is hugged by a crying first-base coach. The learn anything from him to help me in my doctors about the disease, his treatment, and opposing pitcher takes off his glove, starts life,’’ said the young pitcher, an imposing 6- how it would impact his life. But, in these most applauding and his teammates follow suit. foot-3, 225-pound standout athlete who will difficult of circumstances, John found answers. The kid’s teammates run onto the field to play football at IUP. In a Pittsburgh Post Gazette article from celebrate. At lunch, he gave John a new football with It sounds like the climax to a heart-tugger May 2008, John’s father, Scott Challis, recalls a handwritten personal message on it. Part movie. But there was no producer or film of the message read, ‘‘You have touched my this time: ‘‘He’s always been one who had to crew at the game between Freedom and Ali- heart and I will always look up to you as my try and find an answer for everything. He quippa high schools two weeks ago. The role model.’’ wants to figure things out.’’ The article con- scene was as real as the tumors in John Talk to John and you’ll laugh at his sense tinues, ‘‘Through his own thoughts and Challis’ liver and lungs. of humor when he says things such as, ‘‘You

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7331 can’t let girls know that you know how to if I’m special, but it wasn’t hard for me. It’s getting. He took out the IV line and asked text message because they won’t leave you just my mind-set. A situation is what you Mr. Wetzel if he could pinch-hit again. alone.’’ make of it. Not what it makes of you.’’ ‘‘Unbelievable. He told me the doctor said But listen to his mature views on life and He regularly wears his Freedom baseball he could take it out for up to seven hours,’’ his philosophies . . . and you might cry. hat. Under the bill of the cap is his name, Mr. Wetzel said. ‘‘He told me he just wanted ‘‘I used to be afraid, but I’m not afraid of plus this line: ‘‘COURAGE + BELIEVE = to be a normal kid one more time.’’ dying now, if that’s what you want to LIFE.’’ So Mr. Wetzel let him pinch-hit. This time know,’’ he said. ‘‘Because life ain’t about ‘‘I guess I can see why people see me as an he struck out. how many breaths you take. It’s what you do inspiration,’’ he said. ‘‘But why do people They have a unique coach-player relation- with those breaths.’’ think it’s so hard to see things the way I do? ship. Mr. Wetzel invited John to be part of FIGURING IT OUT All I’m doing is making the best of a situa- the team a year ago and John calls the coach It’s been almost two years since John tion.’’ one of his best friends. They talk every day, found out about his cancer. He knows the John then raises his voice. at least on a cell phone, and go to lunch to- date like a birthday. June 23, 2006. ‘‘Why can’t people just see the best in gether once a week. He discovered only recently that doctors things? It gets you so much further in life. ‘‘The kid has changed my life,’’ Mr. Wetzel didn’t expect him to last through that first It’s always negative this and negative that. said. ‘‘I cry for him just about every day. I’m summer. ‘‘To me, that’s already an accom- That’s all you see and hear.’’ 32 and I’m getting married in September. plishment,’’ he said. John tries to keep complaining to a min- You know what he told me the other day? He In the first few months after the cancer imum, but he acknowledges his moments of told me to save him a seat in the front row discovery, John’s father, Scott, would get up crying. of the church, because even if he’s not there, in the middle of the night, peek into his ‘‘If I’m mad at anything in this, it’s that he’ll be there in spirit. son’s bedroom and see him wide awake, star- I’m not going to be able to have a son, I’m ‘‘He just keeps doing things and saying ing at the ceiling. not going to be able to get married and have things that are just unbelievable. I know our ‘‘He would just be thinking,’’ the elder my own house,’’ he said, fighting back tears team will never forget this season because of Challis said. ‘‘He’s always been one who had again. ‘‘Those are the things I’m mad about. Johnny.’’ to try and find an answer for everything. He But not dying.’’ The two want to start a foundation in John’s name for young cancer patients. wants to figure things out.’’ THE ROLE OF SPORTS Through his own thoughts and through his ‘‘Even if [the foundation] is something John loves sports. He is an avid hunter— deep Catholic beliefs, John believes he has that can help only one kid or one family, to ‘‘got three buck and two doe in the last ‘‘figured it out.’’ He answers questions with see people in a different way like I have, it year,’’ he said. maturity, courage and dignity, traits that will be worth it,’’ John said. ‘‘Maybe it will He played baseball through Pony League have become his trademarks. help younger people who haven’t gotten to and always loved football, despite his small John requested that his mother, Regina, see the finer things in life that I got to see.’’ stature. As a sophomore, he started on Free- not be interviewed for this story because it John plans to attend Freedom’s prom May dom’s junior varsity team as a slotback and will be too hard for her. He talks to his fa- 9 and plans to graduate in June. As John cornerback. ther about what to do after he dies. ended this interview, he said he wondered ‘‘I sit up with him at night until 1 or 2 in ‘‘I was 108 pounds. I had to be the smallest how his story will come out in the news- the morning,’’ Scott Challis said. ‘‘He’ll tell player in the WPIAL,’’ he said with a laugh. paper. me, ‘Dad, when I’m gone, you have to do this The cancer forced him to stop playing foot- ‘‘When you write this, don’t overthink or that. You have to watch your weight.’ ball as a junior. things,’’ he said. ‘‘I’ve learned that. There He’s worried about my weight. He tells me I ‘‘But I will never forget,’’ his father said, are a lot of unanswered questions in this have to take care of mom. ‘‘when he first got sick he told me, ‘Dad, I world and the reason they’re unanswered is ‘‘When the doctors told him a few weeks have to dress for a football game one more because if you think about them too much, ago about how the cancer was winning, he time.’ ’’ you’re always going to come up with dif- had a lot of questions about what it was He got his wish in the final game of his ferent answers. So don’t confuse yourself and going to be like and about being com- senior season, against Hickory. Coaches let think about this too much.’’ him kick off once. He was supposed to kick fortable. Later on, he broke down with me CHALLIS FOUNDATION AIMS TO HELP OTHER and you know what he did? He apologized. He and immediately run off the field to avoid danger. Instead, he stayed on the field and SICK KIDS was upset because he felt like he was letting (By Elizabeth Merrill) everyone down who had been praying for got a little excited when the kick returner him.’’ started heading his way before being tackled. The idea came over lobster bites and po- Scott Challis has found talking about his Later in the game, the coaches put him in tato soup. It was a good day for John Challis, son makes the situation easier to deal with. for two plays at receiver. Mr. Wetzel and because he cleaned his plate and didn’t be- But many people like to talk about John. others who saw the game proudly tell how, come violently ill. Challis has defied grim Shawn Lehocky is a senior and one of Free- on one play, John tried to block a defender, cancer prognoses for two years, because, he dom’s top athletes. For every football and fell down, but got up and pushed another de- says, he has so much to look forward to. baseball game, he wears a red wrist band fender. ‘‘God still has a mission for John,’’ says with John’s No. 11 on it. Mr. Wetzel said seeing John play in that Steve Wetzel, his baseball coach at Freedom ‘‘It seems like everyone in this community last football game, doesn’t compare to seeing (Pa.) High School. ‘‘I truly believe that. knows who he is now and he really has his hit against Aliquippa in that April 14 John Challis isn’t going anywhere. He still brought so many people together,’’ Shawn baseball game. John vividly remembers the has work to do on earth.’’ said. ‘‘He’s always on my mind. To see him details leading up to the hit. When he walked Later this month, Challis and Wetzel will and what he’s going through, I don’t know if into the batter’s box, he saw Aliquippa’s officially start the John Challis Courage for I could act like that. He said some pretty catcher wearing a protective mask with the Life Foundation to assist seriously ill chil- strong words at that walk-a-thon that you initials ‘‘J.C.’’ and the number ‘‘11.’’ dren. The foundation will arrange sports don’t hear 17- or 18-year-olds say every day.’’ ‘‘I just looked at him and said, ‘Nice trips for sick children to meet their favorite John fought back tears a few times during mask.’ ’’ athletes. Eventually, Challis wants to set up last week’s interview. He then noticed an Aliquippa coach saying a message board for kids to converse with ‘‘Sometimes I cry, but people cry for all something to the pitcher. each other about treatments and their strug- different kinds of reasons,’’ he said. ‘‘Some- ‘‘I’m thinking, ‘If they’re going to walk me gles with being sick. times I just want to know why, but I think or throw easy to me, I don’t want it handed Challis has hobnobbed with the A-list of I figured that out. God wanted me to get sick to me,’ ’’ he said. ‘‘But sure enough, he threw professional sports lately, mingling with ev- because he knew I was strong enough to han- me a fastball. That’s what made it so good. eryone from Steelers quarterback Ben dle it. I’m spreading His word and my mes- . . . There were only about 20 people there Roethlisberger to former Penguins hockey sage. By doing that, I’m doing what God put watching, but everyone was cheering.’’ great Mario Lemieux to Cleveland Indians me here to do. Mr. Wetzel said: ‘‘We made it to the state skipper Eric Wedge. They know about his in- ‘‘It took me about a half year to figure all [PIAA] playoffs two years ago and I thought spirational story, and how he got his first that out. Now, when I’m able to truly believe that was the best feeling. I got to play in varsity baseball hit in April despite being it, it makes it easier on me. And when you WPIAL championships at Blackhawk as a sapped by cancer treatments and weighing know other people support what you’re player. But that day, that hit, that moment just 93 pounds. thinking, it makes it easier.’’ . . . That was the best feeling I’ve ever had Challis says life has been a mix of good and When asked where he gained his wisdom, in sports.’’ bad days, and he hit a very rough patch a few he answered, ‘‘Through cancer.’’ Six days later, Freedom played a game at weeks ago. Wracked with pain from a radi- ‘‘They say it takes a special person to real- PNC Park. John attended the game, but had ation treatment, he developed severe swell- ize this kind of stuff,’’ he said. ‘‘I don’t know an IV line in his arm for a treatment he was ing around his waist and legs. One night, he

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7332 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 called Wetzel and said, ‘‘Coach, this has been for the many people he touched—and for his sportscaster Scott Van Pelt devoted a seg- the worst couple of days. I feel terrible. But inspiring actions and words. ment of his national radio show to John’s I’m not going to stop fighting.’’ John’s two-year battle with liver and lung story. A week later, Challis graduated from high cancer ended yesterday afternoon, when he How did a teenager with a heavy Pitts- school. He hopes to go to college this fall, died at his home in Freedom, Beaver County. burgh accent from a small Western Pennsyl- and is putting together a scrapbook of his He was 18. vania town become a national story? How summer with Wetzel. They drove to Cleve- On a warm June afternoon, John did one of did he tug at so many people’s emotions land for an Indians game recently, and his final interviews. Lying on a couch in his from so far away? Challis napped on the way home. Normally, living room, he spoke about his young life. ‘‘There is just so much these days with the Wetzel says, He struggled to keep his eyes open, but Internet, and Web sites, and blogs, but this Challis gets sick during a long, 13–hour talked about how, all of a sudden in the past was a story about a kid who was just so real day. But on this day, he stayed strong. few months, he had become something of a that it grabs you,’’ Mr. Van Pelt said. ‘‘Then, ‘‘Before the game, he said, ’It’s amazing to national celebrity. you had sports involved in it. see two teams I haven’t seen before. That’s Not long ago, John was simply a teenager ‘‘I know Pittsburgh is probably all con- going to be great, Coach. But the best thing battling a terminal illness. Then a base hit cerned about what the Steelers are going to is that it’s just going to be me and you.’ in a Freedom High School baseball game led be like this fall and how maybe the Penguins ‘‘We saved our ticket stubs,’’ Wetzel says. to a May story in the Pittsburgh Post-Ga- could’ve done things differently in the Stan- ‘‘That meant the world to me. That makes zette, which led to national attention, on ley Cup, but this kid’s story was just so dif- my life all worthwhile.’’ television and radio and in other newspapers. ferent. It’s a tremendous story. Actually, it’s The attention is what John wanted. He had a bad story because it has a horrible ending. [From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, June 26, decided that through his fight with cancer, ‘‘The story that [the Post-Gazette] did 2008] he could spread a message and help others. started the fire for this kid. If maybe I threw another log on to help get it going more, AILING FREEDOM YOUNGSTER URGES PIRATES: ‘‘Everybody is scared. It’s not normal to then great, because it deserved to be a bon- ‘HAVE FUN’ not be scared,’’ John said of his plight. ‘‘But fire.’’ (By Dejan Kovacevic) I’m not scared as much now. I have letters and other things from people, telling me how John lived long enough to reach some per- John Challis shakes hands last night with I’ve helped so many people in numerous sonal goals. He graduated with his senior one of his baseball heroes, Yankees shortstop ways. That makes me feel good.’’ class. One of his last requests was to take a Derek Jeter. In the corner of the family living room cruise with his father, his mother, Gina, and John Challis, the Freedom youngster who were two boxes of letters and cards from sister, Lexie, and they did that in June. has gained national attention for his battle well-wishers and people who wrote to let him The Pirates brought him to a game later in with cancer, wrote a message on the eraser know they were inspired by his story. His June, gave him a uniform and let him ad- board of the Pirates’ clubhouse yesterday family also has two binders filled with hun- dress the team in the clubhouse. He told the afternoon. dreds of e-mails from people who said John players not to worry so much about their ‘‘Have fun,’’ it said. ‘‘The reason why we statistics and have fun. John told the Pi- play ball is fun.’’ had impacted their lives. Near the couch in the Challis home, a fold- rates to cherish the game—and life. He signed his name underneath. Mr. Wetzel recalled John’s words: ‘‘You ed American flag sat on a chair. A Navy pilot Challis, 18, also delivered a brief speech in never know what life might bring you. You flew the flag over Iraq with John’s name on the closed clubhouse to all players and staff, might have a few sniffles and think it’s not after which everyone in the room stood and it and sent it to the family. ‘‘I just want to say thanks to the people a big thing. Then you go to the doctor the applauded. From there, he spent extra time next day and they tell you that you have a with first baseman Adam LaRoche to ‘‘talk for keeping me going,’’ John said. ‘‘All them little cards and stuff I got, keeps me going 10-pound tumor in your stomach.’’ about hunting and stuff,’’ then sat in man- ‘‘Some of the Pirates got emotional,’’ Mr. day by day. To know I’m going downhill a ager John Russell’s office—his chair, actu- Wetzel said. ally—during Russell’s afternoon news con- little bit, it doesn’t bother me because I’ve First baseman Adam LaRoche stayed in ference. helped so many people. Since I’ve helped so touch with John after his visit. Asked to compare his battle to those faced many people, this is easier to handle.’’ ‘‘It makes you realize how short life is and daily by Major League Baseball players, Courage + believe = life. how unfair it can be,’’ Mr. LaRoche said yes- Life ain’t about how many breaths you Challis laughed and replied: ‘‘Baseball’s not terday from the clubhouse in St. Louis, be- take. It’s what you do with those breaths. that complicated. You swing the bat, and fore the Pirates played the Cardinals. ‘‘I What teenager comes up with such you hit the ball. You don’t worry about your think what’s cool is that, even with what he sayings? John Challis did, and they became stats. You just play the game.’’ had, he chose to make the best of it and his personal trademarks. A baseball glove Of his fate, he said: ‘‘God thinks I’m strong touch a lot of lives that he wouldn’t have if company sent John a black glove with enough to handle it. He’s just using me to this hadn’t happened to him. He got the bad ‘‘Courage + believe = life’’ embossed in the spread His message.’’ end of the deal, but he touched a lot of peo- leather along with John’s name. Before Challis took his seats for the game, ple. For sure, he touched the 25 people in ‘‘We would get things almost every day he also met with ‘‘the player I really want to here.’’ from people all over the country,’’ said Scott meet’’ when he spoke with New York Yan- John also spent some time with the Tampa Challis, John’s father. kees shortstop Derek Jeter during batting Bay Rays when the team was in town to play When John attended a Yankees game in practice. the Pirates. ‘‘If we can all show the courage and faith late June, he had a news conference, sur- ‘‘Their manager, Joe Maddon, called and that John has, or even half of it, we’d all be rounded by more than 20 reporters and pho- said he saw the story on John on ESPN and better off,’’ Russell said. ‘‘The unselfishness tographers. he was just in his hotel room in tears,’’ Mr. ‘‘People would sometimes call, too, just that’s a part of his life should be a lesson to Wetzel said. ‘‘He said he just wanted to meet wanting to talk to him,’’ his father said. all of us.’’ John. Coach Maddon has really become ‘‘Some wanted to come meet him. It was Challis announced the creation of his Cour- touched by John and his message.’’ age For Life Foundation to benefit high amazing. I guess he touched so many peo- Mr. Wetzel and Mr. Maddon now talk a few school students with terminal illnesses. The ple.’’ times a week. Mr. Wetzel said Mr. Maddon John was never more than an average ath- Web site is www.courageforlifefoundation now puts ‘‘C + B = L’’ on every lineup card lete, at best. Because of the cancer, he .com. that he hands to umpires before games. couldn’t play sports as a junior or senior at John’s favorite moment in the past few [From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Aug. 20, Freedom, except for a few plays in the final months was the trip to New York for a Yan- 2008] football game of Freedom’s 2007 season. Then kees game. in April came ‘‘the hit.’’ John hadn’t played ‘‘Just because it was with my dad,’’ John OBITUARY: JOHN SCOTT CHALLIS: TEEN DELIV- baseball in a few years but he wanted to be said. ‘‘It was a good time because we both ERED MESSAGE OF HOPE WITH CANCER FIGHT on Freedom’s team. He wanted a chance to got to experience it, and it felt like some- (By Mike White) hit one time, and Freedom coach Steve thing not just for me, but something he en- Over the past few months, John Challis Wetzel granted the wish, pinch-hitting John joyed as well.’’ watched a Penguins playoff game with Mario in a game against Aliquippa. The afternoon at Mr. Rodriguez’s pent- Lemieux, was featured on ESPN television, In a storybook moment, John lined a run- house was memorable. addressed the Pirates before a game and scoring single to right field on the first ‘‘No Madonna,’’ John said with a laugh. spent an afternoon with Alex Rodriguez at pitch. Although he had trouble running, John was never shy about expressing his the New York Yankee’s penthouse in Man- John made it to first base, yelling ‘‘I did it. feelings on a subject and was always known hattan. I did it.’’ to ask questions. His father laughs at a cou- Although he rubbed elbows with the rich In May, John and Mr. Wetzel were guests ple questions John asked as Mr. Rodriguez and famous, John likely will be remembered on Dan Patrick’s national radio show. ESPN was showing them around his home.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7333 ‘‘Now John had no idea about these Ma- proceedings on this motion will be diers were conducting combat oper- donna and A-Rod rumors [about an affair], postponed. ations in support of Operation Iraqi and John goes, ‘So, where’s your wife?’ I f Freedom. Specialist Navarro, a mem- couldn’t believe it. But A-Rod just said she ber of the United States Air Force Jun- was in Florida at their other home with SPECIALIST PETER J. NAVARRO ior ROTC Program, graduated from La- their kids. POST OFFICE BUILDING ‘‘Then John asked him if his wife worked. fayette High School in 2003. He subse- John wasn’t trying to be smart. He was just Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I move to quently decided to forego his accept- curious. He told John that she didn’t work, suspend the rules and pass the bill ance at Truman State University in but that she had a psychology degree.’’ (H.R. 1217) to designate the facility of order to join the United States Army. John faced his death with courage, dignity, the United States Postal Service lo- As noted by his father, Jose, a retired a never-quit attitude and an awareness that cated at 15455 Manchester Road in chief petty officer for the United was hard to fathom. Ballwin, Missouri, as the ‘‘Specialist States Navy, Specialist Navarro was a John’s mother told of a nurse who started Peter J. Navarro Post Office Building’’. strong-willed young man and a dedi- coming to the family home in June. ‘‘The first time she was here, John said, ‘I know The Clerk read the title of the bill. cated soldier who cared for the soldiers why you’re here. You’re here to make me The text of the bill is as follows: that he worked with and would do any- comfortable in my last weeks. But it could H.R. 1217 thing for his friends. Mr. Navarro also be more than a few weeks, right?’ ’’ Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- recounts that his son wanted to try and ‘‘The kid was just unbelievable,’’ Mr. resentatives of the United States of America in make a difference, and that being a sol- Wetzel said. ‘‘His attitude and messages I Congress assembled, dier was what making a difference is in think changed how some people looked at SECTION 1. SPECIALIST PETER J. NAVARRO POST this time of our lives. their lives. He changed how I went about life. OFFICE BUILDING. Specialist Navarro’s dedication to his ‘‘I feel like a piece of my heart is gone (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the unit and his country was evidenced in now. The thing I’ll miss most is his smile. He United States Postal Service located at 15455 July of 2005 when he returned home to had a smile that could light up a room.’’ Manchester Road in Ballwin, Missouri, shall John said his Catholic faith and belief in Wildwood to attend the funeral of his be known and designated as the ‘‘Specialist younger brother, Daniel, who had been God got stronger through his illness. Peter J. Navarro Post Office Building’’. One of the things that made John happy in (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, killed in a car accident. Specialist recent months was the start of a foundation map, regulation, document, paper, or other Navarro’s mother, Rowena, begged her that will raise money to help other sick record of the United States to the facility re- son not to return to Iraq in the sum- teenagers enjoy a sports experience. The ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to mer. As Mrs. Navarro recalls her son foundation was the idea of John and Mr. be a reference to the ‘‘Specialist Peter J. telling her, ‘‘Mom, they would be a Wetzel. Navarro Post Office Building’’. man short. Somebody’s taking my ‘‘If I can help someone else going through this, then that would make me feel good,’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- place, and that’s not fair. They’d do John said. ant to the rule, the gentleman from the same thing for me.’’ The foundation has a Web site— Massachusetts (Mr. LYNCH) and the Mr. Speaker, Specialist Peter J. www.courageforlifefoundation.org—where gentleman from California (Mr. ISSA) Navarro’s life stands as a testament to donations can be made. each will control 20 minutes. the bravery and dedication of the he- When asked a few weeks ago how he would The Chair recognizes the gentleman roic men and women who have served like to be remembered, John said, ‘‘I could from Massachusetts. and continue to serve our Nation at see people having some beers and hopefully GENERAL LEAVE home and abroad. It is my hope that we remembering how I always tried my best, no can further honor his service through matter what I was doing. That’s my mes- Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- sage—just for people to always do their best, imous consent that all Members have 5 the passage of this legislation. I urge my colleagues to join me in no matter what they’re doing or how stupid legislative days within which to revise supporting H.R. 1217 and dedicate the it might seem. And no matter what, there and extend their remarks. Manchester Road Post Office in will always be a reward, no matter how The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there small it is.’’ Ballwin, Missouri, after this out- objection to the request of the gen- In addition to his parents, John is survived standing American soldier. by his younger sister, Lexie. tleman from Massachusetts? I reserve the balance of my time. Visitation will be tomorrow and Friday There was no objection. Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Noll Funeral Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I now yield such time as I may consume. Home, 333 Third St., Beaver. A Mass will be myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday in SS. Peter Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to support of designating the facility of & Paul Church, Beaver. Burial will follow at present for consideration H.R. 1217, the United States Postal Service lo- Beaver Cemetery. which designates the United States The family asks memorial contributions be cated at 15455 Manchester Road in made to John Challis Courage For Life Foun- postal facility located at 15455 Man- Ballwin, Missouri, as the Specialist dation, P.O. Box 123, Monaca, PA 15061. chester Road in Ballwin, Missouri, as Peter J. Navarro Post Office Building. Also, there will be a golf outing to benefit the Specialist Peter J. Navarro Post As you may know, in the previous Con- John’s foundation Monday at Chartiers Office Building. gress, we had voted to name this post Country Club. For more information, go to Introduced by Representative W. office and, unfortunately, the term www.courageforlifefoundation.org. TODD AKIN on February 26, 2009, and re- ended before we were able to pass this. Mr. LYNCH. I yield back the balance ported out of the Oversight and Gov- But the failure of the Senate to act of our time. ernment Reform Committee on March should not diminish what happened in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 10, 2009, by a voice vote, H.R. 1217 en- the summer of 2005 when Specialist question is on the motion offered by joys the support, the unanimous sup- Peter J. Navarro returned home from the gentleman from Massachusetts port of the entire Missouri House dele- duty in Iraq to join his family at their (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend gation. home in Wildwood, Missouri, not for a the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 987. A resident of Wildwood, Missouri, joyful reunion, but to bury his younger The question was taken. Specialist Peter Joseph Navarro brave- brother, who had died in a car accident. The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the ly served with the United States After Daniel’s funeral, Peter’s moth- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Army’s 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor, 3rd er, distraught over the loss of her mid- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Brigade Combat Team out of Fort dle son, begged him not to return to Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, on that I Riley, Kansas. Iraq. This young man’s response to his demand the yeas and nays. On December 13, 2005, Specialist grieving mother is nothing short of he- The yeas and nays were ordered. Navarro and three fellow members of roic. He had to go back. He said, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- his unit were killed in Taji, Iraq, when ‘‘Mom, they would be a man short. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the an improvised explosive device deto- Somebody’s taking my place, and Chair’s prior announcement, further nated near their Humvee while the sol- that’s not fair.’’

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7334 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 b 1615 Peter’s commitment and dedication to his GENERAL LEAVE This selfless devotion to his com- country is a shining example of how our mili- Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- rades and his country exemplifies the tary men and women are the finest our nation imous consent that all Members may character of this tremendous young has to offer. His and his family’s sacrifice have 5 legislative days in which to re- man. should serve as a reminder to all that the free- vise and extend their remarks. Forgoing his acceptance to Truman dom we enjoy as Americans is not free but the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gen- State University, Specialist Navarro result of the tremendous bravery and selfless tleman from Massachusetts? enlisted in the Army right after his service of men and women willing put themselves in harms way for freedom’s cause. There was no objection. graduation from Lafayette High School Mr. LYNCH. I yield myself such time Our nation will be forever indebted to Spe- in 2003. as I may consume. This young man believed in the mis- cialist Peter Navarro. Mr. Speaker, I ask that Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the sion, men, and country he served. Trag- my colleagues join me today in honoring House subcommittee with jurisdiction ically, on December 13, 2005, just 1 Peter. over the United States Postal Service, month before he was scheduled to end Vote ‘‘yes’’ on H.R. 1217. I am pleased to present for consider- his deployment, Specialist Navarro lost Mr. ISSA. I yield back the balance of ation H.R. 1284, a bill to designate the his life while on patrol in Iraq. my time. United States Postal Facility located Specialist Navarro has been awarded Mr. LYNCH. Again, Mr. Speaker, I’d at 103 West Main Street in McLain, the Good Conduct Medal, the Purple like to thank the gentleman from Mis- Mississippi, as the ‘‘Major Ed W. Free- Heart, and the Bronze Star for his serv- souri (Mr. AKIN) for authoring the man Post Office Building.’’ ice. Specialist Navarro’s father, a vet- measure at hand. I urge my colleagues Introduced by my friend, Representa- eran of the Navy, remembers his to support the passage of H.R. 1217. tive GENE TAYLOR, on March 3, 2009, strong-willed son with admiration: ‘‘He I yield back the balance of my time. and reported out of the Oversight and died because he was trying to make a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Government Reform Committee on difference, and being a soldier was question is on the motion offered by March 10, 2009, by voice vote, H.R. 1284 what was making a difference in this the gentleman from Massachusetts enjoys the support of the entire Mis- time of life.’’ (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend sissippi House delegation. Like many young men and women in the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1217. Born in Neely, Mississippi, on No- uniform today serving our country, The question was taken. vember 20, 1927, Major Ed W. Freeman Specialist Navarro in fact has made the The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the proudly served his country in the decision to go into harm’s way to help opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being United States Army as a fixed and ro- another people far away—people he in the affirmative, the ayes have it. tary wing aircraft pilot. On July 16, never met, people he knows nothing Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, on that I de- 2001, President George W. Bush pre- about, and people who he only knows mand the yeas and nays. sented Major Freeman with the Medal he’s going because our country is there The yeas and nays were ordered. of Honor—the United States military’s and because we are trying to make a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- highest commendation—in recognition difference. ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the of his brave actions during the Viet- I join with the majority today and Chair’s prior announcement, further nam War. with Congressman AKIN, who could not proceedings on this motion will be Major Freeman began his distin- be here, for passage of his bill, in say- postponed. guished military career at the age of 17, with 2 years of service in the United ing this is the right name in this town f for the right individual who gave so States Navy during World War II. He MAJOR ED W. FREEMAN POST completely to the American people, subsequently joined the United States OFFICE and I urge support. Army, serving in Germany for 4 years before being deployed to Korea. Mr. AKIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill Notably, Major Freeman received his strong support of H.R. 1217, a bill I introduced well-familiar nickname of ‘‘Too Tall’’ to honor the life of Peter J. Navarro by desig- (H.R. 1284) to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service lo- after being told that he was too tall to nating the post office in Ballwin, Missouri, as serve as an Army pilot. However, he cated at 103 West Main Street in the ‘‘Specialist Peter J. Navarro Post Office quickly dispelled this notion by becom- McLain, Mississippi, as the ‘‘Major Ed Building.’’ A resident of Wildwood, Missouri, ing one of the Army’s finest helicopter W. Freeman Post Office’’. Specialist Peter J. Navarro was part of Com- pilots. pany A, 2nd Battalion, 70th Armor Regiment, The Clerk read the title of the bill. Major Freeman’s bravery, dedication, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Divi- The text of the bill is as follows: and flying skills were never more evi- sion. On December 13, 2005 Specialist H.R. 1284 dent than on November 14, 1965, during Navarro was one of four soldiers killed when Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- the battle of Ia Drang, at Landing Zone a roadside bomb detonated near their Humvee resentatives of the United States of America in X-Ray, in Vietnam. As noted in his during combat operations in Taji, Iraq. Congress assembled, Medal of Honor citation, Major Free- A graduate of Lafayette High School, Peter SECTION 1. MAJOR ED W. FREEMAN POST OF- man ‘‘distinguished himself by numer- declined his acceptance at Truman State Uni- FICE. ous acts of conspicuous gallantry and versity so he could join the Army right after (a) DESIGNATION.—The facility of the extraordinary intrepidity’’ as a mem- graduation. United States Postal Service located at 103 West Main Street in McLain, Mississippi, ber of Company A, 229th Assault Heli- When Peter returned home for his younger shall be known and designated as the ‘‘Major copter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division. brother’s funeral, he was faced with the unde- Ed W. Freeman Post Office’’. Specifically, as a flight leader and niable risks of serving his country. However, (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in a law, second-in-command of a 16-helicopter he returned to Iraq telling friends and family, map, regulation, document, paper, or other lift unit, then-Captain Freeman sup- ‘‘They need me there.’’ record of the United States to the facility reported a heavily engaged American Peter was a dedicated soldier, willing to give ferred to in subsection (a) shall be deemed to battalion at the Landing Zone in the Ia the ultimate sacrifice to protect his county and be a reference to the ‘‘Major Ed W. Freeman Drang Valley by ‘‘flying his unarmed the men and women who reside there. As Post Office’’. helicopter through a gauntlet of enemy Peter’s father, Jose Navarro said, ‘‘He cared The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- fire, time after time, delivering criti- for the soldiers he worked with. He would do ant to the rule, the gentleman from cally needed ammunitions, water, and anything for his friends. And he told me he be- Massachusetts (Mr. LYNCH) and the medical supplies to the besieged bat- lieved in what the mission was.’’ gentleman from California (Mr. ISSA) talion.’’ As the father of two Marines, one of whom each will control 20 minutes. Additionally, Major Freeman flew 14 has served in Iraq; it is a privilege to stand The Chair recognizes the gentleman separate rescue missions which re- here today to honor one of our fallen soldiers. from Massachusetts. sulted in the lifesaving evacuation of

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7335 an estimated 30 seriously wounded sol- After winning his wings, Major Free- Captain Ed W. Freeman, United States diers. Major Freeman’s Medal of Honor man began to fly fixed-wing aircraft Army, distinguished himself by numerous citation goes on to note that his ‘‘self- and later switched to helicopters. In acts of conspicuous gallantry and extraor- less acts of great valor, extraordinary 1965, he was sent to Vietnam and served dinary intrepidity on 14 November 1965 while serving with Company A, 229th Assault Heli- perseverance, and intrepidity were far in Company A, 229th Assault Heli- copter Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division (Air- above and beyond the call of duty or copter Battalion, of the famous 1st Cal- mobile). As a flight leader and second in mission and set a superb example of vary Division. command of a 16-helicopter lift unit, he sup- leadership and courage for all of his On November 14, 1965, Major Free- ported a heavily engaged American infantry peers.’’ man’s helicopters carried a battalion battalion at Landing Zone X-Ray in the Ia Major Freeman’s heroic acts in the Ia into battle in the Ia Drang Valley, Drang Valley, Republic of Vietnam. The unit Drang Valley were subsequently im- which became the first major con- was almost out of ammunition after taking mortalized in the Mel Gibson film We frontation between large U.S. forces some of the heaviest casualties of the war, Were Soldiers. fighting off a relentless attack from a highly and North Vietnamese regulars. For motivated, heavily armed enemy force. When While he retired from the military in that, he received a number of com- 1967 and moved to Idaho with his be- the infantry commander closed the heli- mendations for his willingness to fly copter landing zone due to intense direct loved wife, Barbara, and sons, Mike and into the face of this heavy combat enemy fire, Captain Freeman risked his own Doug, Major Freeman did not give up while dealing with casualties, going in life by flying his unarmed helicopter through flying—as he went to work for the De- and out and running low on supplies a gauntlet of enemy fire time after time, department of the Interior’s Office of Air- and fuel. livering critically needed ammunition, water craft Services. Upon his official retire- Major Freeman volunteered to fly and medical supplies to the besieged battalion. His flights had a direct impact on the ment in 1991, Major Freeman had into the battle area, risking his own logged more than 25,000 hours of flying battle’s outcome by providing the engaged life, delivering critically needed ammu- units with timely supplies of ammunition time. nition, water, and medical supplies to a Regrettably, Major Freeman passed critical to their survival, without which they battalion on the ground. would almost surely have gone down, with away in August of last year at the age In all, Major Freeman carried out 14 much greater loss of life. After medical evac- of 80. separate rescue missions. For these ac- uation helicopters refused to fly into the Mr. Speaker, let us honor Major tions, Major Freeman was awarded the area due to intense enemy fire, Captain Free- Freeman and his service to our country Congressional Medal of Honor on July man flew 14 separate rescue missions, pro- through the passage of this legislation. viding life-saving evacuation of an estimated 16, 2001, by President George W. Bush. I urge my colleagues to join me in 30 seriously wounded soldiers—some of whom passing H.R. 1284, and dedicating the A few months later, Major Freeman would not have survived had he not acted. McLain Post Office after this distin- visited the White House again for the All flights were made into a small emer- guished veteran. premier of We Were Soldiers, a 2002 fea- gency landing zone within 100 to 200 meters I reserve the balance of our time. ture film that depicted his role in the of the defensive perimeter where heavily Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself battle that day. committed units were perilously holding off such time as I may consume. We will miss ‘‘Too Tall.’’ We will the attacking elements. Captain Freeman’s selfless acts of great valor, extraordinary Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support miss his generation. Mr. Freeman died in Boise, Idaho, on perseverance and intrepidity were far above of H.R. 1284, to designate the facility of and beyond the call of duty or mission and the United States postal service lo- August 20, 2008, from complications of set a superb example of leadership and cour- cated at 103 West Main Street in Parkinson’s disease, and is survived by age for all of his peers. Captain Freeman’s McLain, Mississippi, as the ‘‘Major Ed his wife of 54 years, Barbara Freeman, extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty W. Freeman Post Office.’’ and his sons, Mike and Doug. are in keeping with the highest traditions of Major Freeman perhaps balances the Mr. Speaker, naming a post office military service and reflect great credit three initiatives here today—a young after a man who gave and gave and upon himself, his unit and the United States soldier; an inspirational young man gave to his country the way Major Army. who died far too young of cancer; and, Freeman did is little enough to do. Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I thirdly, a man who lived a full and Today, recognizing his life and con- would urge the passage of H.R. 1284, complete life but who gave and gave tribution, too, is little enough to do for recognizing a Medal of Honor winner, a and gave. one of the last of America’s finest gen- great American, one who has lived a Major Freeman was born on Novem- erations. long life and contributed a great deal ber 20, 1927, in Mississippi. Before grad- With that, I reserve the balance of to our country. Again, I urge support uating from high school, as many of his my time. for H.R. 1284. generation, often called America’s fin- Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, at this I yield back the balance of my time. est generation, young Freeman en- time I yield 5 minutes to the lead spon- listed in the Navy, and served 2 years sor of this resolution, the gentleman Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, again, I simply want to thank Mr. TAYLOR of before returning home to Mississippi, from Mississippi (Mr. TAYLOR). graduating from high school, and de- Mr. TAYLOR. I want to thank the Mississippi and, again, I want to urge ciding to return to the military; this gentlemen from Massachusetts and all Members to support H.R. 1284. time, to the Army. California for their very timely consid- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The During the Korean War, Ed Freeman eration of this. I want to thank all the question is on the motion offered by rose to the rank of master sergeant in members of the Mississippi House dele- the gentleman from Massachusetts an Army engineer unit, and did his bat- gation for cosponsoring it. (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend tles in many places, including the bat- Gentlemen, there really isn’t any- the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1284. tle immortalized as Pork Chop Hill, thing that remains to be said. I think The question was taken. and was then awarded a Battlefield you all did a phenomenal job of hon- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the Commission. oring Ed Freeman’s life. The only thing opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being As was earlier mentioned, Major I would ask is that his Medal of Honor in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Freeman was too tall to be initially al- citation be included in the CONGRES- lowed to be a pilot. At 6′4″, he was cer- Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, on that I SIONAL RECORD. demand the yeas and nays. tainly a big target for the infantry, I Thank you for the timely consider- might say, too. But with his persever- ation. The yeas and nays were ordered. ance, he eventually attended flight MEDAL OF HONOR CITATION, CAPTAIN ED W. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- school until the regulation changed in FREEMAN, UNITED STATES ARMY ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 1955. But he kept that nickname, ‘‘Too For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity Chair’s prior announcement, further Tall’’ Freeman. He carried it through at the risk of his life above and beyond the proceedings on this motion will be the rest of his military career. call of duty: postponed.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7336 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 RECESS Cooper Johnson, Sam Olver Walden Weiner Wolf Costa Jones Ortiz Wasserman Westmoreland Woolsey The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Costello Kagen Pallone Schultz Wexler Wu ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Courtney Kanjorski Pastor (AZ) Waters Whitfield Yarmuth declares the House in recess until ap- Crenshaw Kaptur Paul Watson Wilson (OH) Young (AK) Crowley Kildee Paulsen Watt Wilson (SC) Young (FL) proximately 6:30 p.m. today. Cuellar Kilpatrick (MI) Payne Waxman Wittman Accordingly (at 4 o’clock and 28 min- Culberson Kilroy Perlmutter NOT VOTING—47 utes p.m.), the House stood in recess Cummings Kind Perriello Dahlkemper King (IA) Peters Boren Hall (NY) Radanovich until approximately 6:30 p.m. Davis (AL) King (NY) Peterson Boucher Hinchey Rogers (KY) Davis (CA) Kingston Petri f Boustany Johnson (IL) Rohrabacher Davis (IL) Kirkpatrick (AZ) Pingree (ME) Brown, Corrine Jordan (OH) Roskam b 1830 Davis (KY) Kissell Pitts Cao Kennedy Sa´ nchez, Linda Davis (TN) Klein (FL) Platts Conyers Kirk T. Deal (GA) Kline (MN) Poe (TX) Delahunt Lucas Shea-Porter AFTER RECESS DeFazio Kosmas Polis (CO) Doyle Luetkemeyer Shimkus The recess having expired, the House DeGette Kratovil Pomeroy Dreier McCaul Smith (WA) DeLauro Kucinich Posey Emerson Miller, Gary Speier was called to order by the Speaker pro Dent Lamborn Price (GA) Flake Moran (VA) Stark tempore (Mr. CARSON of Indiana) at 6 Diaz-Balart, L. Lance Price (NC) Gallegly Myrick Thompson (PA) o’clock and 30 minutes p.m. Diaz-Balart, M. Langevin Rahall Gingrey (GA) Olson Turner Dicks Larsen (WA) Rangel Gohmert Pascrell Walz f Dingell Larson (CT) Rehberg Grijalva Pence Wamp Doggett Latham Reichert Gutierrez Putnam Welch ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Donnelly (IN) LaTourette Reyes PRO TEMPORE Driehaus Latta Richardson b 1856 Duncan Lee (CA) Rodriguez The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Edwards (MD) Lee (NY) Roe (TN) So (two-thirds being in the affirma- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Edwards (TX) Levin Rogers (AL) tive) the rules were suspended and the Ehlers Lewis (CA) Rogers (MI) will resume on motions to suspend the Ellison Lewis (GA) Rooney bill was passed. rules previously postponed. Votes will Ellsworth Linder Ros-Lehtinen The result of the vote was announced be taken in the following order: Engel Lipinski Ross as above recorded. Eshoo LoBiondo Rothman (NJ) A motion to reconsider was laid on H.R. 987, H.R. 1217, and H.R. 1284, in Etheridge Loebsack Roybal-Allard each case by the yeas and nays. Fallin Lofgren, Zoe Royce the table. Farr Lowey Ruppersberger The first electronic vote will be con- f ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Fattah Luja´ n Rush Filner Lummis Ryan (OH) electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Fleming Lungren, Daniel Ryan (WI) SPECIALIST PETER J. NAVARRO minute votes. Forbes E. Salazar POST OFFICE BUILDING Fortenberry Lynch Sanchez, Loretta f Foster Mack Sarbanes The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Foxx Maffei Scalise finished business is the vote on the mo- JOHN SCOTT CHALLIS, JR. POST Frank (MA) Maloney Schakowsky tion to suspend the rules and pass the OFFICE Franks (AZ) Manzullo Schauer Frelinghuysen Marchant Schiff bill, H.R. 1217, on which the yeas and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Fudge Markey (CO) Schmidt nays were ordered. finished business is the vote on the mo- Garrett (NJ) Markey (MA) Schock The Clerk read the title of the bill. Gerlach Marshall Schrader The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tion to suspend the rules and pass the Giffords Massa Schwartz bill, H.R. 987, on which the yeas and Gonzalez Matheson Scott (GA) question is on the motion offered by nays were ordered. Goodlatte Matsui Scott (VA) the gentleman from Massachusetts The Clerk read the title of the bill. Gordon (TN) McCarthy (CA) Sensenbrenner (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend Granger McCarthy (NY) Serrano The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Graves McClintock Sessions the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1217. question is on the motion offered by Grayson McCollum Sestak This will be a 5-minute vote. the gentleman from Massachusetts Green, Al McCotter Shadegg The vote was taken by electronic de- Green, Gene McDermott Sherman vice, and there were—yeas 384, nays 0, (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend Griffith McGovern Shuler the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 987. Guthrie McHenry Shuster not voting 47, as follows: The vote was taken by electronic de- Hall (TX) McHugh Simpson [Roll No. 126] vice, and there were—yeas 384, nays 0, Halvorson McIntyre Sires Hare McKeon Skelton YEAS—384 not voting 47, as follows: Harman McMahon Slaughter Abercrombie Blunt Carson (IN) [Roll No. 125] Harper McMorris Smith (NE) Ackerman Boccieri Carter Hastings (FL) Rodgers Smith (NJ) Aderholt Boehner Cassidy YEAS—384 Hastings (WA) McNerney Smith (TX) Adler (NJ) Bonner Castle Abercrombie Bishop (GA) Camp Heinrich Meek (FL) Snyder Akin Bono Mack Castor (FL) Ackerman Bishop (NY) Campbell Heller Meeks (NY) Souder Alexander Boozman Chaffetz Aderholt Bishop (UT) Cantor Hensarling Melancon Space Altmire Boswell Chandler Adler (NJ) Blackburn Capito Herger Mica Spratt Andrews Boyd Childers Akin Blumenauer Capps Herseth Sandlin Michaud Stearns Arcuri Brady (PA) Clarke Alexander Blunt Capuano Higgins Miller (FL) Stupak Austria Brady (TX) Clay Altmire Boccieri Cardoza Hill Miller (MI) Sullivan Baca Braley (IA) Cleaver Andrews Boehner Carnahan Himes Miller (NC) Sutton Bachmann Bright Clyburn Arcuri Bonner Carney Hinojosa Miller, George Tanner Bachus Broun (GA) Coble Austria Bono Mack Carson (IN) Hirono Minnick Tauscher Baird Brown (SC) Coffman (CO) Baca Boozman Carter Hodes Mitchell Taylor Baldwin Brown-Waite, Cohen Bachmann Boswell Cassidy Hoekstra Mollohan Teague Barrett (SC) Ginny Cole Bachus Boyd Castle Holden Moore (KS) Terry Barrow Buchanan Conaway Baird Brady (PA) Castor (FL) Holt Moore (WI) Thompson (CA) Bartlett Burgess Connolly (VA) Baldwin Brady (TX) Chaffetz Honda Moran (KS) Thompson (MS) Barton (TX) Burton (IN) Conyers Barrett (SC) Braley (IA) Chandler Hoyer Murphy (CT) Thornberry Bean Butterfield Cooper Barrow Bright Childers Hunter Murphy, Patrick Tiahrt Becerra Buyer Costa Bartlett Broun (GA) Clarke Inglis Murphy, Tim Tiberi Berkley Calvert Costello Barton (TX) Brown (SC) Clay Inslee Murtha Tierney Berman Camp Courtney Bean Brown-Waite, Cleaver Israel Nadler (NY) Titus Berry Campbell Crenshaw Becerra Ginny Clyburn Issa Napolitano Tonko Biggert Cantor Crowley Berkley Buchanan Coble Jackson (IL) Neal (MA) Towns Bilbray Capito Cuellar Berman Burgess Coffman (CO) Jackson-Lee Neugebauer Tsongas Bishop (GA) Capps Culberson Berry Burton (IN) Cohen (TX) Nunes Upton Bishop (NY) Capuano Cummings Biggert Butterfield Cole Jenkins Nye Van Hollen Bishop (UT) Cardoza Dahlkemper Bilbray Buyer Conaway Johnson (GA) Oberstar Vela´ zquez Blackburn Carnahan Davis (AL) Bilirakis Calvert Connolly (VA) Johnson, E. B. Obey Visclosky Blumenauer Carney Davis (CA)

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7337 Davis (IL) Kirkpatrick (AZ) Pitts Wilson (SC) Woolsey Young (AK) Clay Inglis Murphy, Tim Davis (KY) Kissell Platts Wittman Wu Young (FL) Cleaver Inslee Murtha Davis (TN) Klein (FL) Poe (TX) Wolf Yarmuth Clyburn Israel Nadler (NY) Deal (GA) Kline (MN) Polis (CO) Coble Issa Napolitano DeFazio Kosmas Pomeroy NOT VOTING—47 Coffman (CO) Jackson (IL) Neal (MA) DeGette Kratovil Posey Bilirakis Hall (NY) Putnam Cohen Jackson-Lee Neugebauer DeLauro Kucinich Price (GA) Boren Hinchey Radanovich Cole (TX) Nunes Dent Lamborn Price (NC) Boucher Johnson (IL) Rogers (KY) Conaway Jenkins Nye Diaz-Balart, L. Lance Rahall Boustany Jordan (OH) Rohrabacher Connolly (VA) Johnson (GA) Oberstar Diaz-Balart, M. Langevin Rangel Brown, Corrine Kennedy Roskam Conyers Johnson, E. B. Obey Dicks Larsen (WA) Rehberg Cao Kirk Sa´ nchez, Linda Cooper Johnson, Sam Olver Dingell Larson (CT) Reichert Delahunt Lucas T. Costa Jones Ortiz Doggett Latham Reyes Doyle Luetkemeyer Shea-Porter Costello Kagen Pallone Donnelly (IN) LaTourette Richardson Dreier Marchant Smith (WA) Courtney Kanjorski Pastor (AZ) Driehaus Latta Rodriguez Emerson McCaul Speier Crenshaw Kaptur Paul Duncan Lee (CA) Roe (TN) Flake Miller, Gary Stark Crowley Kildee Paulsen Edwards (MD) Lee (NY) Rogers (AL) Gallegly Moran (VA) Thompson (PA) Cuellar Kilpatrick (MI) Payne Edwards (TX) Levin Rogers (MI) Gingrey (GA) Myrick Turner Culberson Kilroy Perlmutter Ehlers Lewis (CA) Rooney Gohmert Olson Walz Cummings Kind Perriello Ellison Lewis (GA) Ros-Lehtinen Grijalva Pascrell Wamp Dahlkemper King (IA) Peters Ellsworth Linder Ross Gutierrez Pence Welch Davis (AL) King (NY) Peterson Engel Lipinski Rothman (NJ) Davis (CA) Kingston Petri Eshoo LoBiondo Roybal-Allard ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Davis (IL) Kirkpatrick (AZ) Pingree (ME) Etheridge Loebsack Royce The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Davis (KY) Kissell Pitts Fallin Lofgren, Zoe Ruppersberger Davis (TN) Klein (FL) Platts Farr Lowey Rush the vote). Members have 2 minutes re- Deal (GA) Kline (MN) Poe (TX) Fattah Luja´ n Ryan (OH) maining. DeFazio Kosmas Polis (CO) Filner Lummis Ryan (WI) DeGette Kratovil Pomeroy Fleming Lungren, Daniel Salazar b 1904 DeLauro Kucinich Posey Forbes E. Sanchez, Loretta Dent Lamborn Price (GA) Fortenberry Lynch Sarbanes So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Diaz-Balart, L. Lance Price (NC) Foster Mack Scalise tive) the rules were suspended and the Diaz-Balart, M. Langevin Rahall Foxx Maffei Schakowsky bill was passed. Dicks Larsen (WA) Rangel Frank (MA) Maloney Schauer Dingell Larson (CT) Rehberg Franks (AZ) Manzullo Schiff The result of the vote was announced Doggett Latham Reichert Frelinghuysen Markey (CO) Schmidt as above recorded. Donnelly (IN) LaTourette Reyes Fudge Markey (MA) Schock A motion to reconsider was laid on Driehaus Latta Richardson Garrett (NJ) Marshall Schrader the table. Duncan Lee (CA) Rodriguez Gerlach Massa Schwartz Edwards (MD) Lee (NY) Roe (TN) Giffords Matheson Scott (GA) Stated for: Edwards (TX) Levin Rogers (AL) Gonzalez Matsui Scott (VA) Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. Ehlers Lewis (CA) Rogers (MI) Goodlatte McCarthy (CA) Sensenbrenner 126, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been Ellison Lewis (GA) Rooney Gordon (TN) McCarthy (NY) Serrano Ellsworth Linder Ros-Lehtinen Granger McClintock Sessions present, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Engel Lipinski Ross Graves McCollum Sestak f Eshoo LoBiondo Rothman (NJ) Grayson McCotter Shadegg Etheridge Loebsack Roybal-Allard Green, Al McDermott Sherman Fallin Lofgren, Zoe Royce Green, Gene McGovern Shimkus MAJOR ED W. FREEMAN POST Farr Lowey Ruppersberger Griffith McHenry Shuler OFFICE Fattah Luja´ n Rush Guthrie McHugh Shuster Filner Lummis Ryan (OH) Hall (TX) McIntyre Simpson The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Fleming Lungren, Daniel Ryan (WI) Halvorson McKeon Sires finished business is the vote on the mo- Forbes E. Salazar Hare McMahon Skelton tion to suspend the rules and pass the Fortenberry Lynch Sanchez, Loretta Harman McMorris Slaughter Foster Mack Sarbanes Harper Rodgers Smith (NE) bill, H.R. 1284, on which the yeas and Foxx Maffei Scalise Hastings (FL) McNerney Smith (NJ) nays were ordered. Frank (MA) Maloney Schakowsky Hastings (WA) Meek (FL) Smith (TX) The Clerk read the title of the bill. Franks (AZ) Manzullo Schauer Heinrich Meeks (NY) Snyder The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Frelinghuysen Marchant Schiff Heller Melancon Souder Fudge Markey (CO) Schmidt Hensarling Mica Space question is on the motion offered by Garrett (NJ) Markey (MA) Schrader Herger Michaud Spratt the gentleman from Massachusetts Gerlach Marshall Schwartz Herseth Sandlin Miller (FL) Stearns (Mr. LYNCH) that the House suspend Giffords Massa Scott (VA) Higgins Miller (MI) Stupak Gonzalez Matheson Sensenbrenner Hill Miller (NC) Sullivan the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1284. Goodlatte Matsui Serrano Himes Miller, George Sutton This is a 5-minute vote. Gordon (TN) McCarthy (CA) Sessions Hinojosa Minnick Tanner The vote was taken by electronic de- Granger McCarthy (NY) Sestak Hirono Mitchell Tauscher vice, and there were—yeas 384, nays 0, Graves McClintock Shadegg Hodes Mollohan Taylor Grayson McCollum Sherman Hoekstra Moore (KS) Teague not voting 47, as follows: Green, Al McCotter Shimkus Holden Moore (WI) Terry [Roll No. 127] Green, Gene McDermott Shuler Holt Moran (KS) Thompson (CA) Griffith McGovern Shuster Honda Murphy (CT) Thompson (MS) YEAS—384 Guthrie McHenry Simpson Hoyer Murphy, Patrick Thornberry Abercrombie Biggert Buchanan Hall (TX) McHugh Sires Hunter Murphy, Tim Tiahrt Ackerman Bilbray Burgess Halvorson McIntyre Skelton Inglis Murtha Tiberi Aderholt Bilirakis Burton (IN) Hare McKeon Slaughter Inslee Nadler (NY) Tierney Adler (NJ) Bishop (GA) Butterfield Harman McMahon Smith (NE) Israel Napolitano Titus Akin Bishop (NY) Buyer Harper McMorris Smith (NJ) Issa Neal (MA) Tonko Alexander Bishop (UT) Calvert Hastings (FL) Rodgers Smith (TX) Jackson (IL) Neugebauer Towns Altmire Blackburn Camp Hastings (WA) McNerney Snyder Jackson-Lee Nunes Tsongas Andrews Blumenauer Campbell Heinrich Meek (FL) Souder (TX) Nye Upton Arcuri Blunt Cantor Heller Meeks (NY) Space Jenkins Oberstar Van Hollen Austria Boccieri Capito Hensarling Melancon Spratt Johnson (GA) Obey Vela´ zquez Baca Boehner Capps Herger Mica Stearns Johnson, E. B. Olver Visclosky Bachmann Bonner Capuano Herseth Sandlin Michaud Stupak Johnson, Sam Ortiz Walden Bachus Bono Mack Cardoza Higgins Miller (FL) Sullivan Jones Pallone Wasserman Baird Boozman Carnahan Hill Miller (MI) Sutton Kagen Pastor (AZ) Schultz Baldwin Boswell Carney Himes Miller (NC) Tanner Kanjorski Paul Waters Barrett (SC) Boyd Carson (IN) Hinojosa Miller, George Tauscher Kaptur Paulsen Watson Barrow Brady (PA) Carter Hirono Minnick Taylor Kildee Payne Watt Bartlett Brady (TX) Cassidy Hodes Mitchell Teague Kilpatrick (MI) Perlmutter Waxman Barton (TX) Braley (IA) Castle Hoekstra Mollohan Terry Kilroy Perriello Weiner Bean Bright Castor (FL) Holden Moore (KS) Thompson (CA) Kind Peters Westmoreland Becerra Broun (GA) Chaffetz Holt Moore (WI) Thompson (MS) King (IA) Peterson Wexler Berkley Brown (SC) Chandler Honda Moran (KS) Thornberry King (NY) Petri Whitfield Berman Brown-Waite, Childers Hoyer Murphy (CT) Tiahrt Kingston Pingree (ME) Wilson (OH) Berry Ginny Clarke Hunter Murphy, Patrick Tiberi

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7338 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 Tierney Wasserman Wilson (OH) I would have voted: ‘‘yea’’ on H.R. 987; ‘‘yea’’ through a political solution that addresses Titus Schultz Wilson (SC) on H.R. 1217; and ‘‘yea’’ on H.R. 1284. the legitimate aspirations of all of Sri Tonko Waters Wittman Lanka’s communities. We call on the Sri Towns Watson Wolf f Tsongas Watt Lankan Government to put forward a pro- Woolsey posal now to engage Tamils who do not Upton Waxman Wu SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY espouse violence or terrorism, and to develop Van Hollen Weiner Yarmuth CLINTON WILL LEAD ROBUST ´ Velazquez Westmoreland Young (AK) HUMAN RIGHTS AGENDA power sharing arrangements so that lasting Visclosky Wexler Young (FL) peace and reconciliation can be achieved. Walden Whitfield (Mr. MCGOVERN asked and was NOT VOTING—47 given permission to address the House (March 11, 2009) for 1 minute and to revise and extend 2009 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN OF COURAGE Boren Hinchey Rogers (KY) Boucher Johnson (IL) Rohrabacher his remarks.) AWARDS Boustany Jordan (OH) Roskam Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, on HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON, SECRETARY OF Brown, Corrine Kennedy Sa´ nchez, Linda Friday, Secretary Clinton called the STATE, BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ROOM, WASH- Cao Kirk T. INGTON, DC Delahunt Lucas Schock President of Sri Lanka to express deep Doyle Luetkemeyer Scott (GA) concern over the deteriorating human Secretary Clinton: Well, this is such an ex- Dreier McCaul Shea-Porter rights situation in northern Sri Lanka. citing occasion, and there were so many peo- Emerson Miller, Gary Smith (WA) She stated clearly that the army ple who wanted to come today, but unfortu- Flake Moran (VA) Speier nately, there is a limit to how many people Gallegly Myrick Stark should not fire on civilians, that inter- we can let into this magnificent room. So Gingrey (GA) Olson Thompson (PA) national organizations should have full there are people watching on closed-circuit Gohmert Pascrell Turner access to the thousands of people TV all over this building, and beyond. Grijalva Pence Walz And it is my pleasure to welcome you to Gutierrez Putnam Wamp trapped inside the conflict area, and Hall (NY) Radanovich Welch she condemned the Tamil Tigers for the State Department to celebrate Inter- their atrocities. It was a strong human national Women’s Day with a very special ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE rights statement. event and a very special guest. The event is The SPEAKER pro tempore (during the International Women of Courage Awards, Last Wednesday, Secretary Clinton the vote). Members have less than 2 and in a minute, you will meet these re- stood up for the rights of women when minutes remaining. markable women and learn more about their she hosted the 2009 International lives and their work. And I am especially de- b 1911 Women of Courage Awards. She noted lighted to thank one person in particular So (two-thirds being in the affirma- those women whose governments kept whose presence here means a great deal to them from traveling to Washington to all of us—our First Lady, Michelle Obama. tive) the rules were suspended and the (Applause.) bill was passed. receive this honor. She also met with the Chinese For- Now, I know a little bit about the role The result of the vote was announced that—(laughter)—Michelle Obama is filling as above recorded. eign Minister. She told him that every now. And I have to say that in a very short A motion to reconsider was laid on nation seeking to lead in the inter- time, she has, through her grace and her wis- the table. national community must live by the dom, become an inspiration to women and global rules that determine whether girls not only in the United States, but f people enjoy the right to live freely around the world. And it is so fitting that PERSONAL EXPLANATION and participate fully, including the she would join us here at the State Depart- freedom to speak out, to worship, and ment to celebrate the achievements of other Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, today, March to live and work with dignity. extraordinary women, and to show her com- 16th, I was detained in my district and there- mitment to supporting women and girls Secretary Clinton is committed to a around the globe. fore missed the three rollcall votes of the day. strong human rights agenda, and I look Had I been present I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ She understands, as we all do here at the forward to working with her and pro- State Department, that the status of women on rollcall vote No. 125 on agreeing to the res- moting human rights in U.S. foreign and girls is a key indicator of whether or not olution H.R. 987—to designate the facility of policy. progress is possible in a society. And so I am the United States Postal Service located at U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, very grateful to her and to President Obama, 601 8th Street in Freedom, Pennsylvania, as OFFICE OF THE SPOKESMAN, who earlier today announced the creation of the ‘‘John Scott Challis, Jr. Post Office’’. Had MARCH 13, 2009. the White House Interagency Council on Women and Girls. That will—(applause). I been present I would have also voted ‘‘yea’’ STATEMENT BY GORDON DUGUID, ACTING That office will help us collaborate across on rollcall vote No. 126 on agreeing to the res- DEPUTY SPOKESMAN olution H.R. 1217—to designate the facility of every department and agency in our govern- HUMANITARIAN SITUATION IN SRI LANKA ment. the United States Postal Service located at On March 13, Secretary Clinton called Sri President Obama has also designated an 15455 Manchester Road in Ballwin, Missouri, Lankan President Rajapaksa to express the ambassador-at-large to consolidate our work as the ‘‘Specialist Peter J. Navarro Post Office United States’ deep concern over the deterio- on women’s global issues here at the State Building.’’ Lastly, had I been present I would rating conditions and increasing loss of life Department. Now, this is a position that has have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall vote No. 127 on occurring in the Government of Sri Lanka- never existed before, and I am very pleased agreeing to the resolution H.R. 1284—to des- designated ‘‘safe zone’’ in northern Sri that someone you all know, if you have ever ignate the facility of the United States Postal Lanka. The Secretary stated that the Sri worked on women’s issues—know and appre- Lankan Army should not fire into the civil- ciate a longtime colleague and friend, Service located at 103 West Main Street in ian areas of the conflict zone. The Secretary Melanne Verveer, who’s been nominated to McLain, Mississippi, as the ‘‘Major Ed W. offered immediate and post-conflict recon- fill that post. (Applause.) Freeman Post Office.’’ struction assistance and she extended condo- And I also want to thank Ambassador f lences to the victims of the March 10 bomb- Susan Rice and our excellent U.S. delegation ing outside a mosque in southern Sri Lanka. to the United Nations Commission on the PERSONAL EXPLANATION She condemned the actions of the Liberation Status of Women, which is in the middle of Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) who are re- its annual meetings now, for the work that Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- ported to be holding civilians as human they are doing and for the engagement that avoidably absent from this Chamber today. I shields, and to have shot at civilians leaving they demonstrate. would like the RECORD to show that, had I LTTE areas of control. Today, we’re focusing on the International been present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on Secretary Clinton called on President Women of Courage Awards. It’s a fairly new rollcall votes 125, 126, and 127. Rajapaksa to devise a political solution to tradition here at the State Department, but the ongoing conflict. She urged the Presi- it’s already become a cherished institution. f dent to give international humanitarian re- For the past three years, our embassies have PERSONAL EXPLANATION lief organizations full access to the conflict sent us stories of extraordinary women who area and displaced persons camps, including work every day, often against great odds to Mr. PENCE. Mr. Speaker, today, I was un- screening centers. advance the rights of all human beings to expectedly detained in my district due to a The United States believes that a durable fulfill their God-given potential. Today, we flight delay and missed three votes. If present, and lasting peace will only be achieved recognize eight of those women. Each is one

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7339 of a kind, but together they represent count- women being oppressed by the Taliban in Af- conviction, her perseverance in promoting less women and men who strive daily for jus- ghanistan, to mothers seeking to end the vi- human rights, the rule of law, and good gov- tice and opportunity in every country and on olence in Northern Ireland, to citizens work- ernance in Uzbekistan, and for standing up every continent, usually without recognition ing for freedom of religion in Uzbekistan, for justice at great personal risk. Mutabar is or reward. and NGOs struggling to build civil society in someone who has been in prison for quite And I want to say a special word about Slovakia, to grassroots advocates working to some time, and she still has a big smile on someone who could not join us, who we end human trafficking in Asia and Africa, her face, and I salute her courage and her honor today—Reem Al Numery, who was and local women in India and Bangladesh, persistence. (Applause.) forced to marry her older cousin when she Chile, Nicaragua, Vietnam and many other From Niger, Hadizatou Mani. Hadizatou is was just 12 years old. She is now fighting to places who are leading movements for eco- such an inspiring person. Enslaved by being obtain a divorce for herself and end child nomic independence and empowerment. sold at a very young age, she never gave up marriage in Yemen. She was not able to be These personal experiences have informed on herself or on her deep reservoir of human here, but we honor her strength and we my work. And I will continue to fight for dignity. When she finally escaped from slav- pledge our support to end child marriage ev- human rights as Secretary of State in tradi- ery, she didn’t forget those who were still erywhere, once and for all. (Applause.) tional and especially non-traditional ways enslaved. For her inspiring courage in suc- We also express our solidarity with women and venues. cessfully challenging an entrenched system whose governments have forbidden them All of you gathered here represent the kind of caste-based slavery, and securing a legal from joining us, especially Aung San Suu of broad coalition that we need—business precedent that will help countless others Kyi, who has been kept under house arrest in leaders, NGO leaders, ambassadors, experts, seek freedom and justice, we honor and sa- Burma for most of the past two decades, but people from every corner of our government, lute her. (Applause.) continues to be a beacon of hope and citizens who are moved and touched by the You know, before I introduce our final hon- strength to people around the world. Her ex- stories of courage that we will be hearing oree, who will respond on behalf of all of the ample has been especially important to other some more of today. honorees, I just want to say that over the women in Burma who have been imprisoned And it is exciting that we have now in our course of many years of doing human rights for their political beliefs, driven into exile, own country someone who is standing up for work, and particularly on behalf of girls and or subjected to sexual violence by the mili- the best of America, a woman who under- women, I’m sometimes asked, well, do cere- tary. stands the multiple roles that women play monies like this really matter; is that just Our honorees and the hundreds of millions during the course of our lives, and fulfills not something, you know, that you do and of women they represent not only deserve each one with grace. An example of leader- it’s a nice feeling, and then you go back to our respect, they deserve our full support. ship, service, and strength. It is my great wherever you came from? When we talk about human rights, what I pleasure and honor to introduce the First I know that these kinds of recognitions think of are faces like these. What I am com- Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama. and moments of honor by both governments mitted to is doing everything in my power as (Applause.) and NGOs and other institutions and individ- Secretary of State to further the work on (The First Lady makes remarks.) uals are extremely important. They provide (Applause.) the ground in countries like those rep- a recognition of an individual’s struggle and Secretary Clinton: Thank you so much, resented here to make changes in peoples’ courage that stands for so much more. They Mrs. Obama, and it’s exciting to have your lives. That doesn’t happen always in the provide a degree of awareness about the leadership and example for not only girls and halls of government. It happens day to day problems that the individual is fighting to women in our country, but those around the in the towns and cities, the villages and remedy. They serve notice on governments world. that the first and highest duty is for every countryside where the work of human rights Now, we’re going to start with the extraor- goes on. government to protect the human rights of dinary women who we honor today. The first every individual within that jurisdiction. We simply cannot solve the global prob- woman, Wazhma Frogh, from Afghanistan, is lems confronting us, from a worldwide finan- And they provide a degree of protection. being recognized for her courageous efforts And so I salute those in the State Depart- cial crisis to the risks of climate change to to combat sexual and domestic violence and chronic hunger, disease, and poverty that ment who have recognized the importance of child and marital rape throughout Afghani- this and kept It going, and we are proud to sap the energies and talents of hundreds of stan, despite facing dangerous conditions. millions of people when half the world’s pop- continue that tradition. She has come a long way, and we stand in Our final speaker, Ambiga Sreenevasan, ulation is left behind. The rights of women— solidarity with her and the people of Afghan- has a remarkable record of accomplishment really, of all people—are at the core of these istan. (Applause.) in Malaysia. She has pursued judicial reform challenges, and human rights will always be Next, from Guatemala, Norma Cruz. We and good governance, she has stood up for re- central to our foreign policy. are recognizing her for her unyielding efforts ligious tolerance, and she has been a resolute Earlier today I met with Foreign Minister to end the culture of impunity surrounding advocate of women’s equality and their full Yang of China and conveyed to him, as I do the murder and other forms of violence political participation. She is someone who in my meetings with all other leaders, that against women in Guatemala. At great risk is not only working in her own country, but it is our view in the Obama Administration to her personal safety, Norma Cruz has been whose influence is felt beyond the borders of that every nation seeking to lead in the outspoken and extraordinarily brave, and we Malaysia. And it is a great honor to recog- international community must not only live are honored to have her with us today. nize her and invite her to the podium. (Ap- by, but help shape the global rules that will Norma Cruz. (Applause.) plause.) determine whether people do enjoy the Suaad Allami, from Iraq. I told Suaad Ms. Sreenevasan: The First Lady Mrs. rights to live freely and participate fully. when we were waiting to come out how Obama, Madame Secretary Hillary Clinton, The peace, prosperity and progress that we pleased I was to see her, and how grateful we ladies and gentlemen, I am humbled to be in know are best served and best serve human are for the progress that we’ve seen, but we the company of seven extraordinary women beings come when there is freedom to speak know how much more needs to be done in her receiving this award for courage, and I am out, to worship, to go to school, enjoy access country. And we honor her for bravely pro- deeply honored to now speak on their behalf to health care, live and work with dignity. moting the legal rights, the health, the so- and on mine. The United States is grounded in these cial well-being and the economic and polit- We accept this award in all humility, re- ideals, and our foreign policy must be guided ical empowerment of women in Iraq, despite membering that we have been fortunate in by them. Indeed, our own country must con- threats to her own safety. Thank you so being singled out from among countless cou- tinually strive to live up to these ideals our- much, Suaad. (Applause.) rageous women in our countries who are selves. Not only does smart power require us Veronika Marchenko, from Russia. We dedicated to the cause of equality and jus- to demand more of ourselves when it comes honor her for her stalwart leadership in tice. to human rights, but to express those views seeking justice for the families of bereaved It is also timely for us to remember all the to others and to actually assist those who service members, young men conscripted women in other conflict-ridden territories, are on the frontlines of human rights strug- into the Russian Army. For her commitment like Palestine and other countries, who have gles everywhere. to seeking the truth and in promoting im- to show courage every single day in their It is important that we focus on human proved human rights conditions for those struggle to survive and to keep their families rights because I know what inspiration it who serve in the Russian army, and being a together. has given to me over many years. The people networking presence to bring together those Each of us fights causes that promote I have met, they have constantly reminded who served and their families to find answers equality and justice, and by presenting us me of how much work lies ahead if we are to to so many of the questions that no one had with this award you honor those causes and be the world of peace, prosperity and ever, ever bothered to answer before. Thank all the people who work tirelessly for them progress that we all seek. you so much. (Applause.) with unflinching dedication. I’ve met a lot of people, particularly Our next honoree is from Uzbekistan, This award will help to bring to the inter- women, who have risked their lives—from Mutabar Tadjibayeva, for her courage, her national stage our voices and our advocacy

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7340 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 on these important issues. This occasion rights, and women’s rights are human Human rights activists were further upset gives us an opportunity to reflect on the im- rights,’’ resonate with all of us here. Tuesday by the State Department releasing portance of the rule of law in promoting the We would also like to express our deep ad- a statement on Tibet in the name of spokes- rights of women around the world. When the miration for the First Lady Mrs. Obama, and man Robert A. Wood, after Wood had an- rule of law is upheld, equality is upheld, the we would also like to express our apprecia- nounced hours earlier that it would be issued cause of justice is upheld, and human rights tion for your sharing this moment with us. in Clinton’s name, on the eve of her meeting are upheld. Madame Secretary, on behalf of all the with Yang. Foreign governments tend to Today, we are witnessing a struggle for the awardees, I thank you. And we accept the give greater weight to statements issued in souls of our nations, taking place between honor with humility and pride. Thank you. the name of the secretary of state or the the forces of the old and the forces of change. (Applause.) president, rather than spokesmen or press We see our commitment to the rule of law, Secretary Clinton: Thank you. These secretaries. fundamental liberties, and the independence women of courage will serve to remind us Wood refused yesterday to discuss ‘‘inter- of our institutions being tested. The every day as we do our work in this vener- nal deliberations’’ of the State Department strength of our nations will depend on how able building—here we are in the Benjamin and said: ‘‘The statement that we issued last well they withstand this test. Franklin Room, and I’m about to invite you night has the full weight of the secretary. It There are those who claim that democracy to join our reception in the Thomas Jeffer- was cleared by the secretary, and it rep- is a Western concept and is unsuitable else- son Room—that our own country has a lot to resents the secretary’s views.’’ where. There are yet others who perpetrate live up to. But we derive inspiration from Department officials, speaking on the con- injustices behind a veneer of democracy. We those who are struggling so hard just to real- dition of anonymity because they were dis- say that democracy is universal, and a true ize the basic rights that we sometimes take cussing internal deliberations, said the origi- democracy and the rule of law will prevail for granted. And it is our responsibility not nal announcement was an error. They noted when the collective voices of the people are only to continue to do what we must here at that State had never issued a statement on raised in its support. home to realize the dream that America rep- the anniversary of Tibet’s failed uprising On my part, I have for the past two years resents, but to use our talents and our abili- against Chinese rule but that on the 50th an- had the privilege to lead and serve the Ma- ties and resources to help others as well. niversary, Clinton wanted such a statement laysian Bar, a professional organization con- It is such a great privilege to be here with despite the awkward timing of the Yang sisting of approximately 13,000 lawyers. His- all of you, to be the Secretary of State at meeting. The meeting was scheduled mostly tory will bear testament to the fact that the this moment of history in an administration to discuss planning for the April 2 Group of Malaysian Bar has always been true to its represented by Mrs. Obama today, led by 20 summit, which will focus on the world first article of faith, to uphold the cause of President Obama, who means so much al- economic crisis. justice without regard to its own interests or ready to so many around the world. Now, it’s The statement was issued in Wood’s name that of its members uninfluenced by fear or our job to realize the promise that that rep- because Clinton decided to address the media favor. In a sense, I was merely stepping into resents. Thank you all very much. (Ap- herself after the session with Yang, officials the shoes of the many other brave leaders of plause.) said. the bar who came before me, whereas many Some sources said a draft statement on of the awardees today are pioneers in their [From the Washington Post, Mar. 12, 2009] Tibet was more detailed and explicit, urging, struggle for justice. CLINTON REITERATES U.S. COMMITMENT TO for instance, the release of Tibetan pris- This award has given us the opportunity ‘ROBUST’ RIGHTS AGENDA oners. But other officials disagreed, saying which we would not otherwise have had, to (By Glenn Kessler) that those elements were not in the statement when it reached Clinton’s office and share our stories, our successes, our failures, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clin- that she personally strengthened parts of it. to reach out across our borders and to estab- ton, under fire for some of her recent re- Wang is scheduled to meet today with lish a base upon which we can build a mean- marks on human rights, insisted yesterday President Obama at the White House, offi- ingful network of support. These stories that the Obama administration regards the cials said yesterday. must be told in all our countries. By this ex- issue at the same level as economics and perience, we are both enriched and enraged; international security. f enriched by what we have shared, and en- ‘‘A mutual and collective commitment to SOMEBODY ELSE’S MONEY raged that so many of our sisters endure in- human rights is [as] important to bettering timidation and suffering in their countries. our world as our efforts on security, global (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was Nevertheless, ours is a message of hope that economics, energy, climate change and other given permission to address the House something has been achieved, despite the pressing issues,’’ Clinton told reporters after for 1 minute.) odds. meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Martin Luther King said, ‘‘Injustice any- Jiechi at the State Department. She said she where is a threat to justice everywhere.’’ Uncle Sam keeps giving away taxpayer had raised with Yang the issue of Tibet and money to businesses that claim they This means that although we may come from a resumption of a U.S.-China human rights different walks of life, our struggle is com- dialogue. are too important to fail. Some of mon. And each success is a success for all, ‘‘The Obama administration is absolutely these irresponsible corporations helped just as each failure is a failure for all. When committed to a robust, comprehensive bring on this economic crisis. we unite on a human rights platform, wheth- human rights agenda,’’ she said. ‘‘We’re Our government seems to be just as er domestically or internationally, above going to look for ways where we can be effec- irresponsible in the way that it spends politics and political alliances, we create tive, where we can actually produce out- America’s money. AIG received $85 bil- more enduring partnerships and relation- comes that will matter in the lives of people ships. When we pursue freedom and em- lion in bailout money from our gra- who are struggling for their rights to be full cious government, but the Feds put lit- powerment for others, we reaffirm and pro- participants in their societies.’’ tect our own. Last month, during her first trip as chief tle or no restrictions on that money. In my interaction with the other awardees U.S. diplomat to Asia, Clinton provoked So, AIG is giving $165 million of that present here today, it was evident that the human rights activists by saying that press- money in bonuses to its own employ- passion we feel for our causes is driven by ing China on that issue ‘‘can’t interfere with ees. You know, those are the same peo- the love of our homelands and our people. the global economic crisis, the global cli- ple that put AIG in this economic tur- That, in turn, drives our passion for what is mate change crisis and the security crisis.’’ moil. right and what is just. Our people deserve On matters such as greater freedom for Ti- To make matters worse, since $85 bil- nothing less. We all believe in striving for betans, Clinton said, ‘‘We pretty much know lion wasn’t enough, irresponsible Uncle ideals that are—if I may borrow the words— what [Beijing is] going to say.’’ self-evident; namely, the ideals of truth, jus- Then, while traveling in the Middle East Sam is promising to fork over $30 bil- tice, goodness, and universal love and under- last week, Clinton appeared to play down lion more of somebody else’s money to standing. Our stories are a testament to the human rights issues in Egypt and Turkey AIG. Now we learn AIG is sending some universality of these ideals. that had been raised in recent State Depart- of that taxpayer money to Europe, in- We are truly and deeply honored by this ment reports, earning her further criticism. cluding French banks. award, more so, when it comes from you, Ma- ‘‘She has missed unique opportunities,’’ Normally the government should not dame Secretary, yourself a woman of cour- said Rep. Frank R. Wolf (R–Va.), one of the tell private businesses how to operate, age, who has inspired women around the leading congressional voices on human world to reach great heights. Your untiring rights. Secretary of State Condoleezza ‘‘Rice but when 80 percent of the business is efforts in championing women’s rights started out strong and ended weak,’’ he said. run by the government, as AIG is, the worldwide are well known. Your immortal ‘‘But Secretary Clinton is starting out government has the duty to protect words that, ‘‘Human rights are women’s weak.’’ taxpayer money. Thus far, Uncle Sam

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Mr. Speaker, I CONGRATULATING JACK YATES has announced its willingness to work take this opportunity to honor a great HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL TEAM with China on such critical issues as constituent of my congressional dis- the global economy, on energy, and the trict, Mr. Dave Lawrence of South (Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas asked environment. President Obama is try- Florida, for his upcoming recognition and was given permission to address ing to get Russia’s help in convincing as the American Red Cross 2009 Hu- the House for 1 minute.) the Iranians to give up their ambitions manitarian of the Year. Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. of nuclear weapons, and they are en- In order to be named Humanitarian Speaker, I rise to celebrate and con- couraging our NATO partners to re- of the Year, Mr. Speaker, the Inter- gratulate my constituents’ Jack Yates sume high-level relations with Russia. national Red Cross requires that a per- High School basketball team that won These relations, as we remember, were son possess these qualities: humanity, the State of Texas’ championship. suspended after Russia’s military oper- impartiality, neutrality, independence, It is important to emphasize when ation against Georgia 6 months ago. voluntary service, and unity. Well, young people are committed to excel- anyone who has spent even just a mo- lence, and I want to congratulate this In the State Department, Secretary ment with Dave Lawrence can see that school for never giving up, never giving of State Clinton said that the United he embodies these very qualities. He out, and never giving in, as I have States will hold a high-level conference brings them into every activity of his heard so often from my good friend and in Afghanistan, a conference to bring life and every endeavor that he pur- colleague. together the nations of the region and sues. It is important to note that this members of the international commu- Mr. Lawrence is a graduate of the school was challenged to be closed nity for serious talks. Most impor- University of Florida, where his many some 3 years ago. But yet not only tantly, Secretary Clinton has said that distinguished academic accomplish- have they excelled academically, they Iran is likely to be invited to this con- ments earned him the title of ‘‘Out- excelled on the basketball court, hav- ference because, Mr. Speaker, we must standing Journalism Graduate.’’ Mr. ing lost some of their star players in talk to Iran if we’re going to reduce Lawrence’s subsequent career in jour- the last school year. tensions between our two countries. nalism would take him across our Congratulations to their great coach. President Obama promised to reach country from a position as editor of the Congratulations to those students who out to Iran during the presidential Charlotte Observer to Detroit, where were persevering. And isn’t it exciting campaign even though he took a lot of he served as the publisher and execu- to win their first championship since political heat during that time. Now tive editor of The Free Press. the 1940s? the President is making good on his In 1989, to our community’s great for- Go Jack Yates, a great basketball pledge, and I, for one, applaud him for tune, he settled down in South Florida, team. We’re excited, and we are proud that. Of course, there are some who op- where he was the publisher for the of you. pose these diplomatic overtures. Miami Herald for 10 successful years. As a journalist, Dave Lawrence was f America’s 6-year occupation of Iraq, honored with the First Amendment ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Mr. Speaker, has weakened the ability Award from the Scripps Howard Foun- PRO TEMPORE of our Armed Forces to respond to real dation and the IAPA Commentary threats elsewhere in the world, and our The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Award for the elegance of his writing. occupation of Afghanistan hasn’t de- Under his leadership the Miami Herald Chair will entertain Special Order feated the Taliban. So now we must speeches without prejudice to the pos- brought home five Pulitzer Prizes in a protect against sinking even deeper decade. sible resumption of legislative busi- into an endless conflict in that part of ness. In 1999 Mr. Lawrence retired from the world. journalism to pursue another passion. f Those who think that diplomacy Leaving his distinguished career as a SPECIAL ORDERS won’t work should read the article in journalist behind him, Dave’s altruism today’s Washington Post by Fareed would rival even those individuals of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Zakaria. He says the following: ‘‘The the many philanthropic organizations the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- Washington establishment treats com- that he has led, such as the United Way uary 6, 2009, and under a previous order promise as treason and negotiations as and the University of Florida Founda- of the House, the following Members appeasement. It believes that the only tion. This calling was one for which he will be recognized for 5 minutes each. way to deal with other countries is by had already proven himself quite adept f issuing a series of demands. This is not with his own five children. AMERICA DOES BEST WHEN WE foreign policy,’’ he says. ‘‘It’s imperial South Florida’s Father’s Day Council STICK TO OUR BASIC VALUES OF policy. And it isn’t likely to work in recognized him as their Father of the PEACE AND JUSTICE today’s world.’’ Year, and the Family Counseling Serv- ices honored him; his wife, Roberta; his Mr. Speaker, I agree with him on The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a three daughters; and his two sons with that because I think it’s exactly right. previous order of the House, the gentle- the title ‘‘Family of the Year.’’ woman from California (Ms. WOOLSEY) If we are going to achieve our foreign Dave’s calling was to prepare as is recognized for 5 minutes. policy goals, we must use all the tools many children as possible for their edu- Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, for of soft power, which really should be cation at the earliest possible oppor- many years I have been calling upon called ‘‘smart power,’’ because these tunity. His crusade gathered steam our Nation’s leaders to reject war as an tools include diplomacy, humanitarian when he led the voters of Miami-Dade instrument of foreign policy and to em- assistance, and conflict resolution. County to authorize The Children’s phasize diplomacy. Today I rise to Mr. Speaker, America does best when Trust, which provides an independent praise the Obama administration for we stick to our basic values of peace source of revenue devoted solely to the opening a new page in our relations and justice. These values are the real children of South Florida. His success with the world by showing that it is source of our strength, and they are in this campaign earned him two pres- ready to talk with friends and foes the values that will help us build a tigious appointments by Governor Jeb alike. world that’s peaceful and safe. Bush.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7342 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 As the Chair of both the Florida 100, and the other one is a private jail vidual with an arrest warrant, and he Partnership for Childhood Readiness of over 500. He said most of the people was shot in the face by that individual. and the Blue Ribbon Panel on Child in both of those jails are foreign na- He was an individual from El Salvador Protection, Dave Lawrence served as tionals. who had been through the criminal jus- the steward of the early education pro- And I asked him, ‘‘Are these people tice system five times, ordered de- gram for Florida’s children. From charged with immigration violations ported, and apparently he never went these positions he was able to play a or are they charged with other back to where he came from or he crucial role in the fight to amend the crimes?’’ He said, ‘‘No, they are crossed the border again. constitution of our great State of Flor- charged with committing crimes in my It’s important that foreign nationals ida. Now, thanks in large part to his ef- county.’’ He said, in fact, the jail that understand that we will not tolerate forts, all of the children of our great has a little over 100, every person in crime committed by them in the State of Florida have access to quality the jail is illegally in the United States United States. And it makes no dif- pre-kindergarten education so that except for one person. He said, ‘‘If I ference whether those people are le- they may have a proper foundation for didn’t have cross-border travelers com- gally in the United States or illegally learning that will serve them for the mitting crime in my county, I wouldn’t in the United States. rest of their lives. need a jail except for two people, one You come to America, and you com- Dave Lawrence, I hope that you know for a male and one for a female.’’ mit a crime, and you are a foreign na- how great you have been to our chil- So we do understand that crime is tional, those people need to be sent dren, to our South Florida community, coming into the United States from home first. We need to tell them to and, indeed, to our Nation. cross-border travelers because the pack their toothbrush, you don’t have The global economy will continue to United States does not enforce the rule a right to stay in this country. And our grow, and yet our world will become of law on the Texas-Mexico border or government, working with local au- smaller, and the competition in it will the southern border of the United thorities, ought to do everything it can be even more fierce. But thanks to the States. to send those people back home. philanthropic efforts of Mr. David Law- The Justice Department has said You don’t have a right to come here rence, the children of Florida will have that 80 percent of the crime in the and commit crime and stay here. And the head start that they need to stay United States now is drug related or we should enforce the rule of law first competitive and ensure that America gang related. Newsweek recently re- with those foreign nationals that com- remains the greatest democratic coun- ported that Phoenix, Arizona, is the mit crime in the United States. After try in the history of the world. No. 1 kidnapping capital in the United all, it is the duty of our government. Dave, we owe you a debt of gratitude, States, and most of it’s related to the The first duty of government is not and no one deserves to be honored by drug cartels and human trafficking. building roads and bridges and naming the American Red Cross 2009 Humani- Recently Sheriff Arpaio from Mari- a bunch of post offices. The first duty tarian of the Year award more than copa County in Phoenix has been ar- of government is to protect the coun- you. resting folks that are illegally in the try, protect the citizens that live here. Felicidades, mi amigo. Congratula- United States pursuant to a Federal And the government that we have, the tions, my friend. program called the 287g Program. Fed- United States of America, needs to en- f eral funds go to local communities to force the rule of law in this country be- train local peace officers to enforce im- cause that is the duty of government. CRIME BY FOREIGN NATIONALS migration violations. And that’s just the way it is. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a It’s been so successful that he’s now f previous order of the House, the gen- being investigated by the Federal au- AIG BONUSES tleman from Texas (Mr. POE) is recog- thorities, not for seeing how successful nized for 5 minutes. it is, but to see if he is following the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the rule of law, because some people who previous order of the House, the gen- crime committed in the United States want open borders are complaining tleman from North Carolina (Mr. by foreign nationals is hard to deter- about his work. Of course, he says, he JONES) is recognized for 5 minutes. mine. The statistics are all over the welcomes the investigation because Mr. JONES. Mr. Speaker, to date, the map. But let me give you some tonight. maybe the Federal Government could Federal Government has given Amer- The 9/11 Families For a Secure Amer- do their job better. But it’s important ican International Group, AIG, $173 bil- ica say that 32 percent of all people in- that agencies all work together. We are lion in bailout funds. carcerated in the United States are in all in this together. AIG, which is now 80 percent owned the United States illegally. Even my hometown in Houston is by the American taxpayer, posted a Recently, I had the opportunity to go changing its attitude. For years the record $62 billion loss in the fourth to south Texas to visit some of our City of Houston has been accused by quarter of 2008. And that’s why this sheriffs on the Texas-Mexico border. some of being a sanctuary city, like week the American people were out- There are 16 counties in Texas that San Francisco. It claims it’s not a raged to hear that AIG would be paying border Mexico. Two of those are Cul- sanctuary city, even though the Center out $165 million in bonuses, courtesy of berson County, where Sheriff Oscar For Immigration Studies says there the United States taxpayer. Carrillo is the sheriff. The other one is are over 400,000 illegals in the City of To add insult to injury, the bulk of Hudspeth Country, where Arvin West is Houston. the payments are going to employees the sheriff. I was their guest over the So at least 400,000 doesn’t make you a of AIG Financial Products, the unit of weekend a couple of weeks ago. sanctuary city, but be that as it may, the company that sold the risky con- violence has occurred against our peace tracts that caused massive losses for b 1930 officers, Officer James Harris, Officer AIG. The American people are angry And I was asking them this very Andrew Winzer, Officer Florentino Gar- and frustrated. They want to know why question, ‘‘How can we determine if the cia, Officer Guy Gaddis, Officer Rodney are we giving taxpayer money to fail- cross-border travelers are committing Johnson and Officer Gary Gryder, a ing companies so they can hand out bo- crime in the United States? Does it all personal friend of mine. You may not nuses? stay in Mexico, where we know there is know those names, Mr. Speaker, but Mr. Speaker, last fall I voted against corruption and violent crime, or does it those are all Houston police officers this $700 billion government bailout become over to the United States?’’ killed by foreign nationals, most of cause I do not believe American tax- Well, Sheriff Arvin West gave me this them illegally in the country. payers should pick up the tab for the statistic. There are two jails in As recently as March 5, Officer Rich- poor business decisions and greed of Hudspeth County, one has a little over ard Salter was trying to arrest an indi- high-flying Wall Street firms. Because

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They will have to It is time for the American people’s Henry Paulson, as former CEO of Gold- accept this money. representative government to take man Sachs, allowed Lehman Brothers And yet I think of another instance swift and decisive action, stop the to fail, but AIG got a bailout. AIG went where taxpayer funds have been used, bleeding of the taxpayers, put AIG out on to pay out $13 billion of that Fed- one-tenth of the amount, within the of our misery and help restore con- eral aid to trading partner Goldman auto industry, where, right now, the fidence and stability to America’s fi- Sachs. men and women, white-collar employ- nancial markets. And now, thanks to the American ees and the United Auto Workers’ blue- f taxpayer, AIG is still doling out hun- collar workforce, are busy renegoti- IRANIAN THREAT dreds of millions of dollars in employee ating contracts so they can earn less in benefits and retention pay. To the tax- order to justify continued taxpayer The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a payers who are footing the bill, the support of our domestic auto industry. previous order of the House, the gen- Federal Government’s selection of win- Clearly they understand what is nec- tleman from Kansas (Mr. MORAN) is ners and losers just does not meet the essary to restructure and be viable for recognized for 5 minutes. Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, smell test. the future, even if the individuals at while much of the attention here in The lack of oversight in the process AIG do not. Congress is focused on the difficulties is outrageous. Employees in eastern What we are facing now is not only a here at home, as we have heard in North Carolina, which I have the privi- crisis of confidence within our finan- speeches this evening, rising unemploy- lege to represent, are not rewarded bo- cial institutions, we are facing a crisis ment rates, home mortgage fore- nuses when their companies lose of confidence within our governmental closures, increasing health care costs, institutions. As taxpayers watch hun- money. stock market decline, I rise tonight to Constituents in my district want to dreds of billions of their hard-earned remind us that we cannot forget about dollars be spent on the very financial know why should the employees of the pressing challenges to global sta- institutions that brought us to the Wall Street be any different? I join the bility and our national security inter- American taxpayers in their frustra- precipice of a global depression, they est posed by Iran. tion. I pay taxes, and I’m frustrated now watch those individuals being re- One of the best ways to understand too. warded with bonuses in amounts that the seriousness of the Iranian threat is Unfortunately, all we hear from AIG no working family will ever see in a to listen to the words of its leaders. chairman Ed Liddy is that AIG’s hands lifetime of sweat equity put into their Iran’s President has called the Holo- are tied because these bonuses are professions and their careers. caust a lie, has said that Israel ‘‘must based on binding contracts that were And they feel that it is unjust, that be wiped off the map’’ and frequently made before the government bailout. it is wrong. And they wonder how much speaks about a future world in which Well, Mr. Speaker, this Congress and longer this can continue. The sovereign ‘‘Israelis will be eradicated’’ and Israel the current administration better American people want to know when no longer exists. Iran’s supreme leader make sure that no further corporate their representative government will joined in this hateful refrain recently bonuses are paid for with taxpayers’ end the bailout of people such as AIG when he called Israel a cancerous money. and restore order to our financial mar- tumor. I thank President Obama for speak- kets and justice to the taxpayers of the The hatred of Iran’s leaders is not ing out so clearly and plainly about United States. just directed at Israel. Ahmadinejad these retention bonuses because, like Too often we forget the lessons of has called American objectives and in- those of us in Congress, he has been history, and so I would like to remind fluence ‘‘Satanic’’ and has spoken be- hearing from frustrated taxpayers. I us of one. From 1832, when President fore crowds that chant ‘‘death to call on the Federal Government to ex- Andrew Jackson confronted the Second America.’’ Such aggressive and intoler- plore every legal option available to Bank of the United States, he said, able words are not just simply rhetoric. block these excessive and undeserved ‘‘Gentlemen, I have had men watching They represent the policies of a govern- bonuses on behalf of the taxpayers of you for a long time, and I am con- ment committed to terror and destruc- America. vinced that you have used the funds of tion. And in closing, Mr. Speaker, I ask the bank to speculate in the Iran is the world’s leading state spon- God to continue to bless our men and breadstuffs of the country. When you sor of terrorism and is pursuing a nu- women in uniform and their families, won, you divided the profits amongst clear program in defiance of three and may God continue to bless Amer- you, and when you lost, you charged it United Nations Security Council reso- ica. to the bank. You tell me that if I take lutions. Iran’s support for terrorist f the deposits from the bank and annul groups Hezbollah and Hamas have en- the charter, I shall ruin 10,000 families. abled these organizations to carry out THE FORGOTTEN LESSONS OF HIS- That may be true, gentlemen, but that attacks on Israel and kill innocent ci- TORY: FIXING THE FINANCIAL is your sin. Should I let you go on, you vilians. With training and other assist- CRISIS will ruin 50,000 families, and that would ance from Iran, Hamas increased the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a be my sin.’’ range of its rockets so now 1 million previous order of the House, the gen- Toward the end of February we heard Israelis are within the scope of attack. tleman from Michigan (Mr. MCCOTTER) that the administration was in discus- Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons is recognized for 5 minutes. sions with AIG to potentially repri- threatens Israel, other nations in the Mr. MCCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, pick- vatize that institution, to have the region and our U.S. national security. ing up where the distinguished gen- government throw out their governing No government that calls for the com- tleman from North Carolina (Mr. boards that have brought us to this plete destruction of another nation JONES) left off, I, too, wish to address point, take control and break them up should be allowed to have nuclear the subject of American International and sell them off. That would be in the weapons. Yet Iran continues to move Group, also known as AIG. best interests of the American people. closer and closer to being capable of As we have recently heard, having For the continuation of the theory constructing such a weapon. run the company into the ground and that a necessary evil requires propping Although Iran reportedly does not receiving a taxpayer bailout, roughly them up and allowing them to profit at currently have a sufficient amount of

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My name is Congress- ministration, the Federal Reserve, and several months. woman MARCIA FUDGE, representing HUD turned a dead ear. Time is not on our side. The Obama the 11th Congressional District of Ohio. Now, equity in one’s home is really administration must back engagement CBC members are advocates for the the primary path in our country for ac- with tougher sanctions and guard human family, nationally and inter- cumulating wealth, to send one’s chil- against Iranian diversions and delays. nationally, and have played a signifi- dren to college, to start a small busi- Appropriate economic, political, and cant role as local and regional advo- ness, and to really enhance the quality diplomatic means are the best tools we cates. We continue to work diligently of life. Now, this American Dream of have to prevent Iran from developing to be the conscience of the Congress. homeownership has turned into a nuclear weapons. But understand that all politics are nightmare for millions. Last year I cosponsored legislation local. Therefore, we provide dedicated The impact of foreclosure also ex- that declared it was in the national in- and focused service to the citizens and tends far beyond the personal tragedy terests of the U.S. to prevent Iran from congressional districts we serve. of the family that loses their home. acquiring nuclear weapons and urged The vision of the founding members The foreclosure crisis now has reduced the President to impose tough sanc- of the Congressional Black Caucus to property values throughout the neigh- tions on Iran, specifically its banks en- promote the public welfare through borhood. It reduces the revenues for gaged in proliferation activities and legislation designed to meet the needs local and State governments. It causes companies doing business with Iran’s of millions of neglected citizens con- Islamic Revolutionary Guard. increased prices in the rental markets. tinues to be the focal point for our leg- The abandoned homes often become the b 1945 islative work in political activity. blight of our communities. I also voted in favor of legislation Mr. Speaker, I would now like to We took a bus tour in my own com- that expanded the types of entities in yield to our chairperson, the gentle- munity and saw neighborhoods just to- Iran that are subject to sanction and woman from California (Ms. LEE). tally in shambles as a result of homes allowed state and local governments Ms. LEE of California. Thank you that had been foreclosed on. and individuals to divest in any com- very much. First, let me, Mr. Speaker, Unfortunately, predatory lending pany that invests in Iran’s energy sec- thank Representative FUDGE and her targeted vulnerable populations. Pred- tors. staff for working with the staff of the atory lenders went after communities America’s efforts must go further. I Congressional Black Caucus to orga- of color, went after individuals they support sanctioning Iran’s Central nize the CBC Special Order every Mon- knew were vulnerable, and were tar- bank and foreign banks that conduct day that Congress is in session. This gets. To me, that should be looked at transactions with sanctioned Iranian takes quite a bit of time and commit- very seriously, and hopefully one of entities. Efforts to prohibit the export ment, but Congresswoman FUDGE, I these days some will be prosecuted for to Iran of refined petroleum products just want you to know, you continue to that. should be pursued. play such an important role by ensur- When we tried to encourage the Israel is one of America’s closest al- ing that our voices are heard, that the banks to participate in voluntary fore- lies and plays a central role in the country hears with regard to the posi- closure prevention programs to help peace and security of the most volatile tions of the Congressional Black Cau- families in distress, they balked and region of the world. We must continue cus, and our work, and I want to thank made every excuse to avoid partici- to demonstrate our support for our you and your staff for your steady and pating. Israeli friends in the face of continued consistent work on this. Now, millions more families are defiance and threats. Tonight, of course, as Congress- threatened with bankruptcy and fore- A nuclear-armed Iran is unaccept- woman FUDGE indicated, we’re talking closure. AIG—this is unbelievable—AIG able. I urge my colleagues in Congress about the foreclosure crisis. As we all can provide what, $165 million in bo- and the Obama administration to act know, the roots of this current eco- nuses, taxpayer dollars? This is crimi- with the urgency this situation de- nal. It’s wrong. It’s immoral. mands and devote the necessary atten- nomic crisis are grounded in the hous- For much of the time that I sat on tion to this serious threat. While there ing market, the explosion of the the Financial Services Committee and are problems at home that require our subprime markets, and the unregulated attention, we must not waiver in our and uncontrolled growth of the deriva- its subcommittee on Housing and Com- efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring tives market that drove some of our munity Opportunity, I can tell you nuclear weapons. largest financial services companies that much of the work was focused on into bankruptcy. affordable housing. In fact, I can re- f We have to be truthful about this. member sitting in a subcommittee CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS The economic and fiscal policies of the hearing talking to then-Congressman The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Bush administration have left our now-Senator BERNIE SANDERS from the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- country in a mess. They created this Vermont, sketching out the outlines of uary 6, 2009, the gentlewoman from mess. legislation creating the Federal Afford- Ohio (Ms. FUDGE) is recognized for 60 Many of us—and I remember this able Housing Trust Fund. Although I’m minutes as the designee of the major- very vividly—we warned about this im- glad we were finally able to get this ity leader. pending housing crisis years ago. As a through the Congress, we are all acute- GENERAL LEAVE member of the Financial Services Com- ly of aware of the funding problems we Ms. FUDGE. Mr. Speaker, I ask mittee for 8 years, I remember express- are seeing now as a result of the fore- unanimous consent that all Members ing my concern about the housing bub- closure and economic crisis that we are may have 5 legislative days in which to ble and the subprime loans that were facing today. may revise and extend their remarks fueling the housing crisis and also the So there is much, much work to be and insert extraneous materials on the consequences to our economy if the done. That is why many of us are push- topic of my Special Order. bubble ever popped. But our warnings ing for a moratorium. And I think we The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there fell on deaf ears. need a moratorium on foreclosures. We objection to the request of the gentle- I consistently questioned former Fed have been pushing for this from the woman from Ohio? Chairman Alan Greenspan about the start of the crisis. That’s why we

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These individuals work day Caribbean know what callaloo is—it’s their homes, including bankruptcy re- and night to help us figure out ways to sort of a spinach—in his garden and, form. help families in distress, and our bills according to his daughter, would love But it hasn’t been easy, especially to improve FHA to create grants to to give the excess to his neighbors and given the Bush administration’s disas- provide home buyers with the incen- friends at no cost, as he would cook the trous economic policies that I men- tives to strengthen the oversight of rest of it. tioned earlier. But these policies range this mortgage industry, which has gone But around 3 years ago, a mortgage from deregulating the financial indus- wild, if you ask me. broker sold Mr. Ferguson, at the age of try, to the war in Iraq. Yes, this war in This movement and some of these 83, a new $450,000 option adjustable rate Iraq. $10 billion a month has been part initiatives I think will help begin to mortgage that would almost certainly of this huge problem. These tax cuts to mitigate some of the damage of this put his home into foreclosure. the rich, which created this financial housing crisis. But without the safety mess. net of the courts, the average home- b 2000 I mean, this is really an unbelievable owner will still too often be left to the Mr. Ferguson had no attorney moment that this administration has rise and fall of the markets and the present at the time during the closing stepped up to the plate on to move for- whims of the mortgage marketers. So and believed he had made a good deal. ward to help turn this economy bankruptcy reform must be enacted. To make matters worse, Mr. Fer- around. So, thank you, again, Congress- guson had dementia, a condition he Despite the resistant Bush adminis- woman FUDGE, for organizing this Spe- was diagnosed with in 2005, and had tration, at least we were able to in- cial Order. Thank you for allowing us only his Social Security and a pension clude important Neighborhood Sta- to raise the alarm once again and to as sources of income. So this gen- bilization Funding—over $8.25 million sound the alarm so that the country tleman of Jamaican descent could eas- for my own city last year—in the Hous- understands that we are on the case ily forget to make a mortgage payment ing and Economic Recovery Act. day and night, and this is quite a mo- that could balloon to such a fright- Again, thanks to the consistent and ef- ment and it’s quite a mess that we are ening amount that it would be insur- fective work of Congresswoman MAX- faced with as a result of the last 8 mountable to pay back. Mr. Ferguson INE WATERS. years. But I am confident that with is a victim of predatory lending, and Today, finally a new day has dawned President Obama, Speaker PELOSI and now he may lose his home. and we have hope because the majority our leadership, that we are going to dig Low income, elderly people are expe- in Congress and President Obama un- ourselves out of this hole. riencing widespread theft of their eq- derstand that we can and we must use Thank you, and I yield back. uity. Elderly people are simply more every available tool to address this cri- Ms. FUDGE. Thank you. Mr. Speak- susceptible to abusive predatory lend- sis head on. er, I would like to thank our Chair, the ing practices. Home equity scams are The Congressional Black Caucus gentlewoman from California (Ms. appealing to financial predators be- fought hard, fought hard, led by Con- LEE), for her leadership, for her ability cause the money is substantially easy gresswoman MAXINE WATERS, to ensure to keep the issues that are really perti- to find, and the elderly can be induced that an additional $2 billion in Neigh- nent and pressing on the CBC agenda. into losing the equity in their homes borhood Stabilization Funding in the Madam Chair, I thank you. and, even worse, becoming homeless American Recovery and Reinvestment I would now like to yield to the gen- through predatory lending, foreclosure Act was included. Not enough, but it’s tlewoman from New York, Ms. YVETTE rescue scams, and estate planning. The a start. CLARKE. I’m pleased that Secretary Geithner Ms. CLARKE. Mr. Speaker, I first mortgage foreclosure crisis has had a and the President have announced a $75 want to thank the gentlewoman from profoundly injurious impact on our billion plan to keep families in their Ohio for her leadership in organizing seniors. homes and to keep home ownership af- this Congressional Black Caucus Spe- Now, as this is the month of March fordable. cial Order this evening. I’d also like to and it is Women’s History Month, I Even with all of our efforts, we all thank Representative FUDGE for yield- thought it would be good to share some know the enormity and the gravity of ing so that I may discuss how fore- of the impact of this crisis on the this situation, and this requires much closures are adversely affecting so women of our Nation. more. We have the obligation of mak- many African American communities— By 2010, women will head almost 28 ing the dream of home ownership ac- communities in my district and percent of all households in this Na- cessible to all Americans and to help throughout the country. I also want to tion. Of families living in poverty in them achieve those dreams by limiting commend her for her leadership role in 2001, 50.9 percent were women-headed these unscrupulous lenders—and I organizing us around the issues that households with no spouse present. mean they are unscrupulous; these un- have been of such concern and are so But, in fact, the tremendous growth in scrupulous brokers—and they are un- critical to the strength and the under- the number of women filing for bank- scrupulous; and these real estate pinning of the communities that the ruptcy shows that economic instability agents, who really seek to profit at the members of the Congressional Black for women reaches also into the middle expense of the people that they purport Caucus represent. class. Unmarried women accounted for to serve. Let me start by joining my chair- 30 percent of the growth in home- We are not casting a net on all of woman, Congresswoman BARBARA LEE owners from 1994 to 2002. Women ac- these individuals and institutions, but of California, in calling for the morato- count for a larger share of the I think the data shows us that there’s rium on mortgage foreclosures. To- subprime loans than of prime loans. been a lot of bad faith, there’s been a night, I rise as a member of the 11th Women are particularly vulnerable to lot of activity in the financial services Congressional District to state how predatory lenders. Women are particu- and in the real estate industry that foreclosures have devastated the lives larly vulnerable to financial hardship. really caused us to question a lot of the of two individuals that I represent. Older women are at greatest risk. Older practices of some of these individuals. First, there’s Mr. Simeon Ferguson. women may be open to promises of I think that there must be more ac- Mr. Ferguson is an 86-year-old retiree ready cash if they live on modest fixed countability and more oversight and from Crown Heights, Brooklyn. He incomes that do not cover property tax some need to be called on the carpet as worked for more than 20 years as a chef increases, necessary home repairs, and a result. at the Long Island College Hospital. unanticipated medical expenses. Finally, let me just say that I have In 1975, he bought a three-story Women are especially susceptible to fi- to congratulate our Speaker for help- brownstone in my district. This benev- nancial hardship.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7346 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 I want to share with you now one of foreclosures and greatly boost the At the heart of the American Dream the stories of another one of my con- number of successful loan modifica- has always been the dream of owning stituents. Her name is Ms. Waver tions. one’s home. Unfortunately, too many Brickhouse. At age 69, Ms. Brickhouse I commend President Obama and his Americans have seen this dream seri- is a gray-haired, soft-spoken woman administration for their ongoing ef- ously distorted and deferred by the from the Brownsville section of my dis- forts to mitigate the damage and assist unhealthy antiregulation environment trict. She is a victim of mortgage our families in staying in their homes. that gave lenders free rein to push fraud, and now may have her home put But we must also look at ways to advo- products to unsuspecting customers into foreclosure, too. She turned to cate for legal reform that would ulti- who simply wanted a chance at that what she believed to be a home rescue mately prevent the elderly from losing dream. There were 2.3 million fore- firm, who then secretly sold her home their homes. So I urge my colleagues closure filings last year. and added at least $150,000 of fraudu- tonight to work together with the CBC While some have blamed homeowners lent mortgage debt. This retired City to take the lead in addressing the fore- for biting off more than they could Parks Department worker said in a re- closure crisis and, more important, chew, the truth is that average Ameri- cent New York Times article, and I mitigate the racial disparities of preda- cans approach their bankers like they quote, ‘‘I am going to drown in debt. I tory lending and its impact on African do their doctors, in an atmosphere of feel like it is just a matter of time American seniors. I want to thank you trust and vulnerability, and most never until I am out on the street with my again, my colleague and the leader of imagined that they would be approved children.’’ this special order, Congresswoman if their lender didn’t think they could However, these stories are not irreg- FUDGE from the 11th Congressional Dis- keep up with their payments. But this ular in my district. African American trict of Ohio, for being a beacon of is not the time for blame, it is the time seniors in New York and all across this light this evening to those in our com- for action. And I also rise to applaud Nation are at risk of losing homes they munities who are really struggling to President Obama, the Democratic-led worked so hard for decades to some day keep their heads above water and, most Congress, Chairman BARNEY FRANK, acquire full equity of their property, important, their dignity. Congresswoman MAXINE WATERS, and but at this moment some are facing Ms. FUDGE. Mr. Speaker, I would others, who have come together to for- homelessness. certainly like to thank my friend and mulate an aggressive campaign to turn Mr. Speaker, just listen to the alarm- the outspoken representative from the around this crisis which has threatened ing numbers. According to the Federal 11th District of New York. She stands homeowners across this country. Reserve Bank of New York, by the fall for her people, and I am so appreciative President Barack Obama’s com- of 2007, one in four homeowners with of her participation this evening. prehensive Homeowner Affordability subprime mortgages lived in neighbor- Mr. Speaker, I would now like to and Stability plan will help stem fore- hoods in my district such as Crown yield to one who has been so helpful closures, keep families in their homes, Heights and Bedford-Stuyvesant, and during the CBC hour, who has provided and stop the plunge in home values for these mortgages were in foreclosure. In me guidance and support, and I call my all homeowners. The President and this 2008, Federal data reported that there co-anchor. And that would be the gen- Congress have moved aggressively to are 5,861 foreclosures in Brooklyn tlewoman from the Virgin Islands (Mrs. help those in bankruptcy get a loan alone. And the Center for Responsible CHRISTENSEN). modification agreement, to help those Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Thank you, Lending projected that, in 2009, there who are underwater and in need of refi- Congresswoman FUDGE, for organizing will be 435 foreclosures in my district, nancing get a chance at a new start, yet another time for us to speak to our and within the next 4 years that num- and those who are in danger of fore- colleagues and to the American people ber will rise to 1,448. closure to avoid it altogether by being Communities such as the one I just on an issue of great importance to able to work it out with their banks mentioned as well as others through- them and to all of us. And I want to and lending institutions. out the Nation collectively lost as also thank Chairwoman LEE for her much as $92 billion in wealth over the leadership, and our colleagues for join- By passing the Helping Families Save last 8 years resulting from predatory ing us this evening, and for their lead- Their Home Act, the House has moved lending practices within the subprime ership for introducing measures like towards bringing fairness to families mortgage crisis. the Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2009, by giving them the same rights to keep For these reasons, Mr. Speaker, I in- to be introduced by Congresswoman their home as someone who owns two or three homes. Without spending one tend to introduce legislation. My bill is CLARKE who just spoke. entitled the Foreclosure Prevention Mr. Speaker, members of the Con- Federal dollar, it gives bankruptcy Act of 2009. This bill will provide fund- gressional Black Caucus are pleased judges the chance to modify existing ing to the National NeighborWorks As- that we are finally beginning to see mortgages for families who file Chap- sociation for mortgage foreclosure what may be a glimmer of hope that we ter 13 so that they can make payments mitigation activities. NeighborWorks will be able to help our country and and stay in their homes. It also gives has been instrumental in partnering those most affected climb out of the lenders more confidence to modify with the State of New York Mortgage worst fiscal crisis since the Great De- loans by protecting them from some Agency to not only promote home own- pression, a crisis caused by greed, and lawsuits, and strengthens the FHA’s ership in underserved communities where the most vulnerable people are Hope for Homeowners program by re- such as Bedford-Stuyvesant, Browns- the ones suffering the consequences as ducing fees and offering incentives for ville, and Flatbush, but they also pro- we have heard this evening. lenders. vide foreclosure counseling that could If one wants to truly fix a problem, Earlier, the Obama administration some day help predatory victims like one must fix it at its root causes, and revealed the details of other parts of Mr. Ferguson and Ms. Brickhouse. the root cause of this current crisis is their recovery plan for homeowners In addition, I recently voted for H.R. the housing bubble and the subprime aimed at helping those with existing 1106, Helping Families Save Their mortgages and the way those were Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac mortgages Homes Act of 2009, which allows for pooled together and then securitized. to refinance, and those who are not yet mortgage modifications through the The initial remedies shored up the gov- in foreclosure but are struggling to bankruptcy court, and I also support ernment-sponsored enterprises like stay away from it to get a modification applying the FDIC model. The Federal Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and the from their lending institution. Deposit Income Insurance Corporation banks, but the homeowners were for far While the Obama administration has has pioneered a promising approach too long left holding the bag, an empty made it clear that not everyone will that, even with some limitations, bag at that, and, unfortunately, mis- qualify for help, it is still true that would strengthen incentives to prevent placed blame. millions can keep their homes under

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this initiative, saving families, neigh- the State of Texas, Ms. SHEILA JACKSON with 29,636, and California was a close borhoods, communities, and, indeed, LEE, who has been a strong voice in our third with 29,537 properties entering our economy, from further decline. Congress for years for the people who some stage of foreclosure in the first There are many people in organiza- are most in need. quarter, again, this is 2006. And let me tions in addition to the leaders I named b 2015 just say I do know this is 2009. earlier who played a role in getting us I think it is important to note that to this point, and I would be remiss if Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Allow we did not create this crisis. The elec- I did not mention the NAACP’s efforts me to thank the gentlelady from Ohio tion of 2008 didn’t all of a sudden make to demonstrate that minority commu- for really taking up the very important it where people are foreclosing. This nities were being unfairly targeted mantle of leadership in communicating has been happening. And what we are with these toxic mortgages. Many have to our colleagues why we really need to trying to do is to emphasize that we been devastated. The NAACP has filed be in a team effort. I was with Senator have to act now. That is why the Presi- suit against at least one bank for tar- Rodney Ellis, a State senator in my dent is so interested, the administra- geting communities of color for State, just yesterday. We have to use tion is so interested in making sure subprime mortgages, and we congratu- time when we can, and that was Sun- that there is a moratorium, that there late them and stand with them on this day. We were standing up, along with is $75 billion that is being set aside, effort. The Congressional Black Caucus certainly many members of the State something that we debated when we and the Progressive Caucus also played legislature and many Members here in were working with the previous admin- important roles in ensuring that the the House, on the great need for receiv- istration that you can’t give then-Sec- focus was expanded to include the ing stimulus dollars and unemploy- retary of the Treasury a carte blanche homeowner, not just the financial in- ment dollars in the State of Texas. $555 utilization of then the $350 billion. So stitutions, and that meaningful rem- million is presently being rejected by many of us argued vehemently about edies were put in place for them. this Governor of our State. that. These are all meaningful steps to ad- And the quote that comes to mind Let me say to my good friend from dress the mortgage mess that has been from that State senator was that when Ohio that these numbers are not ignor- the catalyst to a severe domestic eco- people are hurting or unemployed or in ing the fact of how difficult it has been nomic downturn that has resonated foreclosure, they don’t see Democrats in the Midwest and in Ohio in par- globally. Our President’s plan and the or Republicans. They just see pain. And ticular. Again, this was emphasizing laws that we have passed will not only that is why I think it is important that the high numbers of big States. But help everyone who is in or threatened we convey to our colleagues that their certainly it has Ohio. And it mentions, with foreclosure, but we hope that constituents don’t see a Democratic or of course, that you, too, were in the many millions of homeowners who are Republican Congressperson. They just midst of huge foreclosures. In 2006 it in trouble will be able to keep their see a major dilemma from which they looks like you were in the 8,000, 9,000. homes. are wondering how they can get out. You kept going up. In February you We are concerned, though, that some So this evening, I would like to em- had 9,000. So you were going up, and of the financial institutions have been phasize something that seems to have the other States were going up as well, turning down Federal help, ostensibly been lost, and that is that this ongoing which means that this is not an issue because they don’t like the strings that foreclosure crisis was percolating way for small States, big States, or middle are attached, the oversight, and the re- before the inauguration of our present States. quirement for transparency. Account- President. And in fact, I’m reading So I come to the floor really to sug- ability and transparency is exactly from a document that was dated 2006, gest that we are in a crisis that has to what would have kept us out of this and it says ‘‘foreclosures up 72 percent be acted upon. That is why so many of mess and what is needed going forward, from last year.’’ That would have been us rallied around the Helping Homes whether they take the money or not. 2005. That was the last administration. legislation that is not a giveaway. It is The White House, HUD, Treasury, The previous administration was a Re- and Congress must use any authority not a refuge for deadbeats and people publican administration. But I imagine that we have to ensure that the finan- who can’t handle their finances. It is that this number, 72 percent, was not cial institutions who themselves have really, as I indicate on the floor of the coded according to Democrat or Repub- been the recipients of bailouts by the House, the bankruptcy provision is the lican homeowners. But it did say that billions, and even those who are refus- little guy’s helping hand, because we it was up 72 percent. And it goes on to ing, to ensure that they will fully par- bailed out every large entity that we ticipate in the homeowner rescue ini- say that ‘‘national foreclosure filings could possibly bail out. Just give the tiatives and extend the lifeline that continued to climb in the first 3 roll call of the big banks, the big in- many homeowners need and are pray- months of 2006, evidence that more vestment houses, the big AIGs. We ing for. U.S. homeowners are struggling to stay have bailed them out. Fixing the root cause of the problem current on their monthly mortgage When I got on the floor to debate this and making American homeowners payments.’’ bankruptcy provision, which we have whole again, restoring the American Why, then, wasn’t it addressed by the been trying for a number of years, it Dream, is what will begin to restore administration during that time? That would have been helpful if the previous confidence in our government’s ability is 2006, ‘‘a total of 323,102 properties na- administration had allowed this to go to put us on a stable economic course, tionwide entered some stage of fore- forward in 2006 with these high num- and what will finally begin to put our closure in the first quarter of 2006.’’ bers. And then we could have had indi- country on the road to financial recov- Again, it mentions ‘‘a 72 percent year- vidual, responsible families who simply ery. over-year increase from the first quar- wanted to get time, that is what the I thank you again for hosting this ter of 2005 and a 38 percent increase bankruptcy does. Nobody goes to the special hour. It has been my pleasure from the previous quarter.’’ It specifi- bankruptcy court and says ‘‘take my to work with you on this, and I look cally talks about the fact that Texas, house.’’ We are trying to keep them forward to doing some more of this in Florida and California report the most from going through that humiliating the future. foreclosures. Now we are a prosperous experience of seeing your house auc- Ms. FUDGE. Thank you so very State, or at least we are defined as tioned off. And all of us have seen the much. I would very much like to thank such. It must be because we have gov- video on television where we see fami- my colleague for all of her help and ernment officials suggesting that we lies sit there with tears in their eyes. support during the CBC hour, and look don’t need unemployment dollars. Yes, some people benefit by maybe forward to working with her as well. Texas reported the most first-quarter being able to buy a house. But mostly Mr. Speaker, at this time I would foreclosures of any State with 40,236, the people with tears in their eyes, like to yield to the gentlewoman from and Florida reported the second most some hoping they could buy it back,

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Well, we know there are some we could provide the basis of the work Homes that I know my colleague voted legal issues that have been represented that we have done and also ask our col- on and understood how important it to us that provides a problem, but I leagues to encourage all of their con- was as a lawyer and former mayor and will just simply say that having prac- stituents to seek foreclosure modifica- understands about the tax base that ticed in the courts, it is a shame that tion in their loan, to not sit by si- just deteriorates when we lose our we couldn’t just say, ‘‘sue me,’’ which lently, that the banks are now under a home, this just allows the homeowner would have just had those individuals burden to not foreclose but to be able to go into the courthouse with a who thought that they were owed the to talk to you about loan modification. trained bankruptcy judge who is not bonus to be able to go into the court- Everyone should seek loan modifica- prone to go lightly on people who are house and try to get the money. tion now. Do not suffer in silence, be- frivolously coming in masquerading I think I would like to commend our cause we realize that it is not only a themselves, never paid a bill in their Speaker who has indicated that these predatory lending issue which has oc- life, but it allows them, just like moneys should then be paid back now curred, but there are people who have you’ve allowed the big corporations by AIG. If you figured that you regular loans that may be finding that have gone into bankruptcy to be couldn’t have any other out, you themselves in difficulty and have the able to reorder. couldn’t stand the impact of a lawsuit right for loan modification. And so, it is truly important to en- for people who were getting these huge We do want to say that we want to sure, to help the little person, that this bonuses, $160 billion plus, then why get out of this issue that whenever we bankruptcy bill that has been passed don’t you go ahead and put on the re- see certain economic or certain neigh- by the House and the Senate, as I un- quirement that they should pay the borhoods that that particular lendee is derstand it, it may be that we move taxpayers back. But I use this as an ex- a prime target for subprime mortgages. this bill along that will allow the ample that we have to be able to help Now some people have indicated to me cramdown that everybody talked these hardworking taxpayers who that subprime mortgages have been about, you’re going to disadvantage themselves have suffered because we used sometimes favorably to allow the lender. No, you’re not. Because have not been able to provide the re- someone with some challenges. But there are now different provisions that lief. certainly subprime should not equate puts in that any value that comes I just want to add that new home to predatory. And there has been pred- through the sale of that house goes sales have fallen by about 50 percent. atory lending going on. And so these back to the lender, there are protec- One in six homeowners owes more on a subprimes have equated to that. And I tions about the cramdown, there are mortgage than the home is worth want the bankers to be able to be more notices that have to be given so that which raises the possibility of default. creative than to see certain neighbor- maybe you can modify the loan with- Home values have fallen nationwide hoods, certain, if you will, ethnicities out going into bankruptcy. And if any from an average of 19 percent from or racial groups, and the only thing lender is smart, they will do that. But their peak in 2006, and this price plunge you can give them is a subprime when at the bottom line, this bankruptcy has wiped out trillions of dollars in their particular portfolio suggests that provision helps hardworking Ameri- home equity. That is the sadness of it. they are equal or able to take on any cans wherever they live to save their Many people were going to use this for regular loan. And what happened is house with dignity. Mr. and Mrs. Jack- retirement, had the ability to pass on a they put more people in subprime son-Lee, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, Mr. and debt-free house to their children. This based on ethnicity and race. Mrs. Fudge, Mr. and Mrs. Jones, Mr. was the bottom line or the first line of b 2030 and Mrs. Smith, Mr. and Mrs. Gonzalez wealth for many Americans. We were can go in and fix that problem through told to buy that wonderful nest egg, So I wanted to add as I draw to a the courts and save the house for them buy that home that will be a nest egg. close, and I welcome your participating and their four children or two children. The tide of foreclosure might become in this legislation that I intend to In USA Today, there was an article self-perpetuating. The Nation could be drop, and that is to ensure that indi- that you, as a former mayor, would un- facing a housing depression something viduals who are in mortgage fore- derstand, the dumbing down of the worse than the recession. closure because of subprime and preda- amount of money that is going to Of course, we know about the TARP tory lending will not have that fore- school districts because we were reach- bill that has helped us to move for- closure on their credit score. You know ing a crisis of how many homes were ward. But then again, we realize that what happens with credit scoring. being foreclosed and seeing the tax there have been, certainly in the first When you go into a bank and they pull base just dwindle away, in fact, I would issuance of the dollars, these major that score up, hardworking families say, go rapidly down a fast moving problems. And so that is why we have suffer because of the credit score. Prob- tube. turned our attention, and I want to ably they were thrown into the So it is a ripple effect of not only de- congratulate Chairman CONYERS, who subprime and predatory markets be- stroying neighborhoods, which is why had been on this issue, in the previous cause of that. these neighborhood stabilization mon- administration we had attempted to So the language says in particular eys in the stimulus package are cru- get the language put in the TARP. that a foreclosure on a subprime mort- cial, but also destroying obviously And many times, Congresswoman gage of a consumer may not be taken paramount families, lives, and then the FUDGE, the Congress doesn’t get the into account by any person in pre- ability to pay for the education of your recognition. And certainly none of us paring or calculating the credit score children, and then, of course, the ulti- are saying me, me, me or I, I, I. And we as defined in subsection F(2) for or with mate dump of a whole town, whole also know that we are in a business respect to the consumer. city, a whole hamlet, village, being that we are responsible enough to take Subprime defined. The term just blocks and blocks of foreclosed criticism. But they need to know that ‘‘subprime mortgage’’ means any con- homes. we were fighting the Judiciary Com- sumer credit transaction secured by So I think it is important that we mittee to get the bankruptcy language the principal dwelling of this consumer begin to stand on the floor of the House into the TARP legislation a way long that bears or otherwise meets the to support America’s families. And I time ago, recognizing the importance. terms and characteristics of such a can’t help but as I speak with you this But it would not, could not be moved transaction that the board has defined evening and to my colleagues, I just forward because of opposition from the as subprime mortgage. have to hold this up because it cer- then-White House. So if you have been a victim of preda- tainly shows the strength of our Presi- And so it is important to note to- tory lending, we will add that. And you dent, it says, this is a headline, Obama night that I am very glad that you had have made every effort through loan

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Where do Mr. Speaker, home foreclosures are at an sible for you to then move into a home these people go? all-time high and they will increase as the re- or buy another home or to transition And then what is compounding the cession continues. In 2006, there were 1.2 to get your life in order. problem is we are now having landlords million foreclosures in the United States, rep- I want our colleagues to realize that who have renters in their homes, and resenting an increase of 42 percent over the this is going to be an ongoing concern. haven’t told the renters they are in prior year. During 2007 through 2008, mort- And the fact that it is an ongoing con- foreclosure. One day the renters wake gage foreclosures were estimated to result in cern means we have to work with our up and they have a notice on their door a whopping $400 billion worth of defaults and local communities. That is why I have saying that they have to move in three $100 billion in losses to investors in mortgage supported the TARP funding to be as days. Or the sheriff saying you must securities. This means that one per 62 Amer- responsive to community, regional and move from these premises. So it be- ican households is currently approaching lev- private banks as they are to the big comes a very difficult experience to els not seen since the Depression. banks. I think it is important that we watch someone lose their home. The current economic crisis and the fore- invest in the smaller banks by making I am hopeful that some of the things closure blight has affected new home sales sure that they get TARP funds. And I that we have done in this Congress will and depressed home value generally. think it is enormously important for stop the bleeding. We may not cure the New home sales have fallen by about 50 the President’s mission that says that problem over the short run, but I am percent. One in six homeowners owes more we should in fact for every dollar lent very confident that we will over the on a mortgage than the home is worth which to these banks, they must lend it out, long run. I certainly hope that some of raises the possibility of default. Home values and we must lend it not only to those these things are given a chance. We have fallen nationwide from an average of 19 who are attempting to modify their have given 8 years of opportunity to percent from their peak in 2006, and this price loans, but to the new generation of make things work and they haven’t. plunge has wiped out trillions of dollars in homeowners. Let us not kill off the in- Give us the same opportunity. I do be- home equity. The tide of foreclosure might be- centive for others to buy homes, co- lieve our President is doing the right come self-perpetuating. The nation could be ops, condominiums, brownstones, the thing. It is just going to take some facing a housing depression—something far worse than a recession. two stories, the split levels, if you will, time. Obviously, there are substantial societal and two families in one home scenario, we Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. I think economic costs of home foreclosures that ad- should not take away the American it is important for people to hear stories from all over the country. I think versely impact American families, their neigh- dream of a house. borhoods, communities and municipalities. A I believe that if we can watch AIG one of the salient points that you have single foreclosure could impose direct costs with some sort of cavalier attitude, made is how it puts people on the on local government agencies totaling more giving $160 million in bonuses and not street and how it clogs the courts. Dif- than $34,000. wanting to issue a report on where the ferent from the bankruptcy pro- I am glad that recently we have seen legis- moneys went, we can certainly be help- ceedings which allows people to stay in lation on the floor the United States House of ful to those who are struggling. their homes, the foreclosure proceeding Representatives. I have long championed in I would like to engage the gentlelady is so long and protracted, most people the first TARP bill that was introduced and in a conversation, particularly as she will be abandoning doing their home signed late last Congress, that language be incomes from Ohio, and just get a sense before it concludes. cluded to specifically address the issue of of the impact that comes about when I thank the gentlelady from Ohio for mortgage foreclosures. I had asked that $100 homes are foreclosed. With your expe- being able to both express some of the billion be set aside to address that issue. Now, rience as a former mayor and how im- outrage and pain. And this was not cre- my idea has been vindicated as the TARP portant those local resources are, what ated under this administration. We are today has included language and we here happens to a community when there trying to be the problem solvers, and it today are continuing to engage in the dialogue are massive foreclosures and that in- would have just been great if we had to provide monies to those in mortgage fore- come doesn’t come in any more? looked at this issue from the adminis- closure. I have also asked for modification of Ms. FUDGE. There are a couple of tration’s perspective in 2006 and before. homeowners’ existing loans to avoid mortgage things that I would like to address. We might then have been able to put foreclosure. I believe that the rules governing Many people know that Cleveland, our finger in the dike and help those these loans should be relaxed. These are in- which is a major part of my district, who were on the verge of going over deed tough economic times that require tough has been one of the poorer cities in the cliff. measures. America for the last 3 years. So when But now we are holding an enormous Because of the pervasive home fore- we are talking about more than 10,000 burden, and I guess the parting words closures, federal legislation is necessary to vacancies in a city, which is the case in are let’s look at the people who are curb the fall out from the subprime mortgage the city of Cleveland, not only does it rolling up their sleeves. The media crisis. For consumers facing a foreclosure sale destroy neighborhoods, but there are pundits who can criticize rain, if you who want to retain their homes, Chapter 13 of less resources to go to the school or to will. If it is raining, they can criticize the Bankruptcy Code provides some modicum go to the city for city services, and all that. But people who are trying to of protection. The Supreme Court has held of the things that go along with tax build banks backs and make them re- that the exception to a Chapter 13’s ability to dollars. As well, it deflates and de- sponsive to our neighborhoods and modify the rights of creditors applies even if values all of the property around it. school districts, let’s look at the Fed- the mortgage is under-secured. Thus, if a And it clogs the courts. The fore- eral legislation trying to help people Chapter 13 debtor owes $300,000 on a mort- closure process is a timing issue be- modify their loans and keep them off gage for a home that is worth less than cause of all the notice requirements. It the streets and save families and $200,000, he or she must repay the entire is a domino effect. It hurts everything school districts. Why don’t we listen to amount in order to keep his or her home, even that you can think of that has to do that explanation, which I am sure will though the maximum that the mortgage would with housing. But most importantly, it give us a better understanding than na- receive upon foreclosure is the home’s value, puts people on the street. We have tional pundits who make their money i.e., $200,000, less the costs of foreclosure. thousands and thousands of people off of worrying about whether it is I have long championed the rights of home- waiting to get into public housing. We raining and therefore if it is, that gives owners, especially those facing mortgage fore- have people who have moved in with them a mouthful to criticize. I would closure. I have worked with the Chairman of

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7350 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 the House Judiciary Committee to include lan- omy, expand affordable mortgage loan oppor- tional mortgage option designed to keep bor- guage that would relax the bankruptcy provi- tunities for families at risk of foreclosure, and rowers in their homes. sions to allow those facing mortgage fore- strengthen consumer protections against risky The program is effective from October 1, closure to restructure their debt to avoid fore- loans in the future. Unfortunately, problems in 2008 to September 30, 2011. closure. the subprime mortgage markets have helped HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS Because I have long championed the rights push the housing market into its worst slump There are four ways that a distressed home- of homeowners facing mortgage foreclose in in 16 years. owner could pursue participation in the HOPE the recent TARP bill and before the Judiciary Before the Rules Committee, I offered an for Homeowners program: Committee, I have worked with Chairman amendment to the Helping Americans Save 1. Homeowners may contact their existing CONYERS and his staff to add language in the Their Homes Act that would prevent home- lender and/or a new lender to discuss how to Helping Americans Save Their Homes bill that owners and debtors, who were facing mort- qualify and their eligibility for this program. would help Americans stay in their homes that gage foreclosure as a result of the unscrupu- would make the bill stronger and that would 2. Servicers working with troubled home- lous and unchecked lending of predatory lend- owners may determine that the best solution help more Americans. ers and financial institutions, from having their Specifically, I worked with Chairman CON- for avoiding foreclosure is to refinance the mortgage foreclosure count against them in homeowner into a HOPE for Homeowners YERS to ensure that section 109(h) of the the determination of their credit score. It is an Bankruptcy Code would be amended to waive loan. equitable result given that the debtors ulti- 3. Originating lenders who are looking for the mandatory requirement, under current law, mately faced mortgage foreclosure because of that a debtor receive credit counseling prior to ways to refinance potential customers out from the bad practices of the lender. under their high-cost loans and/or who are filing for bankruptcy relief. Under the amended Simply put, my amendment would prevent language there is now a waiver that will apply willing to work with servicers to assist dis- homeowners who have declared mortgage tressed homeowners. where the debtor submits to the court a certifi- foreclosure as a result of subprime mortgage cation that the debtor has received notice that 4. Counselors who are working with troubled lending and mortgages from having the fore- homeowners and their lenders to reach a mu- the holder of a claim secured by the debtor’s closure count against the debtor/homeowner principal residence may commence a fore- tually agreeable solution for avoiding fore- in the determination of the debtor/home- closure. closure proceeding against such residence. owner’s credit score. This is important because it affords the It is envisioned that the primary way home- Specifically, my amendment language was debtor the maximum relief without having to owners will initially participate in this program the following: undergo a slow credit counseling process. is through the servicing lender on their existing SEC. 205. FORBEARANCE IN CREATION OF CRED- This will help prevent the debtors credit situa- IT SCORE. mortgage. Servicers that do not have an un- tion from worsening, potentially spiraling out of (a) IN GENERAL—Section 609 of the Fair derwriting component to their mortgage oper- control, and result in the eventual loss of his Credit Reporting Act (15 U.S.C. 1681g) is ations will partner with an FHA-approved lend- or her home. amended by adding at the end the following er that does. The recent bill before Congress, Helping new subsection: Because I am committed to helping Ameri- Homeowners Save Their Home Act, relaxes ‘(h) FORECLOSURE ON SUBPRIME NOT TAKEN cans obtain homes and remain in their homes, certain Bankruptcy requirements under Chap- INTO ACCOUNT FOR CREDIT SCORES— I support the HOPE for Homeowners Program. ter 13 so that the debtor can modify the terms ‘(1) IN GENERAL—A foreclosure on a Indeed, I feel personally vindicated that Con- subprime mortgage of a consumer may not of the mortgage secured by his or her primary gress has set aside $100 billion to address the residence. This is an idea that I have long be taken into account by any person in pre- paring or calculating the credit score (as de- issue of mortgage foreclosure, an issue that I championed in the TARP legislation—the abil- fined in subsection (f(2)) for, or with respect have long championed in the 110th Congress. ity of debtors to modify their existing primary to, the consumer. HOUSING, FORECLOSURES, & TEXAS mortgages. The bill allows for a modification of ‘(2) SUBPRIME DEFINED—The term Texas ranks 17th in foreclosures. Texas the mortgage for a period of up to 40 years. ‘subprime mortgage’ means any consumer would have faired far worse but for the fact credit transaction secured by the principal Such modification cannot occur if the debtor that homeowners enjoy strong constitutional fails to certify that it contacted the creditor be- dwelling of the consumer that bears or oth- protections under the state’s home-equity fore filing for bankruptcy. In this way, the lan- erwise meets the terms and characteristics lending law. These consumer protections in- guage in the bill allows for the creditor to dem- for such a transaction that the Board has defined as a subprime mortgage.’. clude a 3 percent cap on lender’s fees, 80 onstrate that it undertook its ‘‘last clear’’ (b) REGULATIONS—The Board shall pre- percent loan-to-value ratio (compared to many chance to work out the restructuring of the scribe regulations defining a subprime mort- other states that allow borrowers to obtain 125 debt with its creditor before filing bankruptcy. gage for purposes of the amendment made by Importantly, the Act amends the bankruptcy percent of their home’s value), and mandatory subsection (a) before the end of the 90-day judicial sign-off on any foreclosure proceeding code to provide that a debtor, the debtor’s period beginning on the date of the enact- property, and property of the bankruptcy es- ment of this Act. involving a defaulted home-equity loan. tate are not liable for fees and costs incurred (c) EFFECTIVE DATE—The amendment made Still, in the last month, in Texas alone there while the Chapter 13 case is pending and that by subsection (a) shall take effect at the end have been 30,720 foreclosures and sadly arises from a claim for debt secured by the of the 30-day period beginning on the date of 15,839 bankruptcies. Much of this has to do debtor’s principal residence. the enactment of this Act and shall apply with a lack of understanding about finance— Lastly, I worked to get language in the Help- without regard to the date of the foreclosure. especially personal finance. ing Home Owners Save Their Homes Act that The homeowners should not be required to Last year, American’s Personal income de- would allow the debtors and creditors to nego- pay for the bad acts of the lenders. It would creased $20.7 billion, or 0.2 percent, and dis- tiate before a declaration of bankruptcy is take years for a homeowner to recover from a posable personal income (DPI) decreased made. I made sure that the bill addressed mortgage foreclosure. My amendment would $11.8 billion, or 0.1 percent, in November, ac- present situations at the time of enactment have strengthened this already much needed cording to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. where homeowners are in the process of and well thought out bill. Personal consumption expenditures (PCE) de- mortgage foreclosure. This was done with a I intend to offer a bill later this Congress to creased $56.1 billion, or 0.6 percent. In India, view toward consistency predictability and a address this issue. I am delighted however household savings are about 23 percent of hope that things will improve. that the Judiciary Committee has expressed their GDP. RULES COMMITTEE their willingness to incorporate my language in Even though the rate of increase has Over the past two years, debtors and aver- the Conference language for this bill. Without showed some slowing, uncertainties remain. age homeowners found themselves in the a doubt, this issue is important to me and it is Foreclosures and bankruptcies are high and midst of a home mortgage foreclosure crisis of critical to Americans who are facing mortgage could still beat last year’s numbers. unprecedented levels. Many of the mortgage foreclosure and bankruptcy. Home foreclosures are at an all-time high foreclosures were the result of subprime lend- The HOPE for Homeowners (H4H) program and they will increase as the recession con- ing practices. was created by Congress to help those at risk tinues. In 2006, there were 1.2 million fore- I have worked with my colleagues to of default and foreclosure refinance into more closures in the United States, representing an strengthen the housing market and the econ- affordable, sustainable loans. H4H is an addi- increase of 42 percent over the prior year.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7351 During 2007 through 2008, mortgage fore- institutions. Texas also has $9 billion in com- doned neighborhoods, money needs to closures were estimated to result in a whop- mercial mortgage-backed securities, the third- go towards foreclosed properties. ping $400 billion worth of defaults and $100 largest amount after California and New York, As we see far too often, for commu- billion in losses to investors in mortgage secu- according to Trepp. nities with foreclosed homes, it is a rities. This means that one per 62 American Mr. Speaker, I believe that the bills that the short road from nuisance to blight to households is currently approaching levels not Congress has worked on since November crime. Blight affects a city’s morale seen since the Depression. 2008 will do yeoman’s work helping America and slows economic growth and devel- The current economic crisis and the fore- get back on the right track with respect to the opment. Abandoned homes also become closure blight has affected new home sales economy and the mortgage foreclosure crisis. harbors for criminal activity. and depressed home value generally. New Ms. FUDGE. I want to thank my col- Typically, it is our inner cities that home sales have fallen by about 50 percent. league who is obviously an outstanding bear the brunt of vacant homes and One in six homeowners owes more on a lawyer and leader for participating in community blight. But now it can be mortgage than the home is worth raising the this hour. seen in each and every community, in possibility of default. Home values have fallen Mr. Speaker, certainly, as you have every development and in every neigh- nationwide from an average of 19% from their listened to my colleagues this evening, borhood. Even the affluent suburbs face peak in 2006 and this price plunge has wiped helping the economy recover is fore- the same problems. The suburb of out trillions of dollars in home equity. The tide most in all of our minds. At this time Shaker Heights spent nearly $1 million of foreclosure might become self-perpetuating. in our Nation’s history, it is important on foreclosed properties. The city of The nation could be facing a housing depres- that Congress ensure that Americans Euclid had to tear down 18 homes, and sion—something far worse than a recession. have jobs to support themselves and Cleveland Heights spent a great deal of Obviously, there are substantial societal and their families, as well as homes to raise money on maintenance on over 250 economic costs of home foreclosures that ad- these families in. To fix the economy, properties. versely impact American families, their neigh- we must address the foreclosure crisis. I spoke recently with Ms. Arnetta borhoods, communities and municipalities. A Foreclosures affect all races and in- Parker, a long-time resident of Rich- single foreclosure could impose direct costs comes. It doesn’t just stop in the poor mond Heights, Ohio, a nice, upper-mid- on local government agencies totaling more cities, it affects every community in dle-class suburb. She and her husband than $34,000. every State. However, the effects on have resided in the area for over 35 Recently, the Congress set aside $100 bil- the black community are especially years and are currently doing fine. lion to address the issue of mortgage fore- pronounced because of the lower level However, their community is strug- closure prevention. I have long championed of homeownership. For many black gling greatly. Her subdivision has that money be a set aside to address this very families, home equity is the main about 80 homes, and on her street important issue. I believe in homeownership source of wealth because most have alone, four of those homes are vacant. and will do all within my power to ensure that lower incomes, little to no savings or She recalled one of the first times she Americans remain in their houses. investments, and no life insurance poli- saw a family be required to move out of their home and how much it hurt her BANKRUPTCY cies. We have come full circle in our discussion The decline of the housing market is to see a hardworking couple lose their today. The bill before us today is on bank- at the center of our economic crisis. home. The displaced couple had two kids, a teenage son who was very in- ruptcy and mortgage foreclosures. Home prices have dropped 18 percent in I have long championed in the first TARP the last quarter of 2008. It is estimated volved in sports and a very young girl. bill that was introduced and signed late last that each foreclosed home reduces sur- They were uprooted from what was fa- Congress, that language be included to spe- rounding property values by as much miliar to them, from their schools, cifically address the issue of mortgage fore- as 9 percent, causing increased concern their friends and community. They be- closures. I had asked that $100 billion be set for even those who are not directly af- came a part of the crisis. Just this month, foreclosures.com, a aside to address that issue. Now, my idea has fected by the housing crisis. Nearly 6 Website that looks at the rise of fore- been vindicated as the TARP that was voted million homes are facing foreclosure, closures in the United States, found an upon this week has included language that and nearly one in five homeowners increase in foreclosures of over 60 per- would give $100 billion to address the issue of owes more than their home is worth, cent from January to February. The mortgage foreclosure. I am continuing to en- and many cannot afford to refinance. organization’s president, Alexis McGee, The foreclosure crisis affects every gage in the dialogue with Leadership to pro- opined if foreclosures continue sector of the population, and nearly vide monies to those in mortgage foreclosure. unabated, then the United States could every person in this Nation. Cities I have also asked for modification of home- see 1.2 million homes back in lenders’ owners’ existing loans to avoid mortgage fore- across the Nation are experiencing a hands by the end of this year. closure. I believe that the rules governing crisis that imperils communities and The Center For Responsible Lending these loans should be relaxed. These are in- cripples the economy. In my district, estimates there are 6,600 new fore- deed tough economic times that require tough the Center For Responsible Lending closures every day, and that equates to measures. Again, I feel a sense of vindication projected 5,500 foreclosures in 2009— one foreclosure by one family that on this point, because this bill, H.R. 1106 ad- just in the 11th District—and 18,500 loses their home every 13 seconds. dresses this point foreclosures over the next 4 years. This Nation cannot sustain a system CREDIT CRUNCH Within the State of Ohio the projection in which mortgage servicers prefer A record amount of commercial real estate is very grim: 87,500 foreclosures in 2009. foreclosure over mortgage modifica- loans coming due in Texas and nationwide the In Cuyahoga County, 13,858 were fore- tions. The Homeowner Affordability next three years are at risk of not being re- closed in 2008. Cleveland is one of the and Stability Plan creates incentives newed or refinanced, which could have dire Nation’s big cities in the most need due for lenders to modify mortgages by consequences, industry leaders warn. Texas to its large population of poor families. bringing mortgages more in line with has approximately $27 billion in commercial The city has set aside nearly $11 mil- the value of the home and should re- loans coming up for refinancing through 2011, lion to handle some 10,000 homes that duce the number of home foreclosures. ranking among the top five states, based on have been abandoned primarily due to It also encourages servicers to modify data provided by research firms Foresight foreclosure. Much of that money, about mortgages for at-risk homeowners be- Analytics LLC and Trepp LLC. Nationally, $7.5 million, goes to demolition, while fore they are delinquent. Foresight Analytics estimates that $530 billion the remainder takes care of vacant Recent reports show that home- of commercial debt will mature through 2011. lots, boarding up windows, picking up owners are not the only ones suffering Dallas-Fort Worth has nearly $9 billion in com- trash, and mowing lawns. This money in this crisis. Renters are also becom- mercial debt maturing in that time frame. could be used to hire more police offi- ing victims as their landlords lose Most of Texas’ $27 billion in loans maturing cers and to keep more teachers. But be- property to foreclosure. Usually rent- through 2011—$18 billion—is held by financial cause of the risk that goes with aban- ers are not aware of the foreclosure

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7352 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 proceedings. Once the lender has fore- pating. As a last resort, it allows bank- and it’s $410 billion. And then they closed, they often provide little notice ruptcy judges to modify the terms of heard it had 9,000 earmarks contained to tenants before demanding that the loans for families with existing mort- in the bill. And they thought, what in tenants vacate the property. Forced gages, just as investors in vacation the world is going on? I thought this from the property, renters may lose homes, real estate speculators, and cor- was an emergency. I thought this was a their security deposit and everything porations have been able to do for time when we’re supposed to be careful else they have. years. And it helps veterans, and oth- with our money. And the American To help insure that similar crises are ers, to avoid foreclosure by allowing people are socking away money as averted in the future, regulations must the Department of Veteran Affairs, the much as they can. be developed that combat mortgage FHA, and the U.S. Department of Agri- It was just only about a year or so fraud and predatory lending practices. culture to guarantee or ensure mort- ago that we saw that the savings rate In general, predatory lending covers gage loans modified either out of court in the United States was minus 1 per- those practices that are deemed decep- or in a bankruptcy case. cent. During the Great Depression, the tive or fraudulent, that manipulate Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allow- savings rate was minus 1.5. What was borrowers through aggressive sales tac- ing the CBC to have a Special Order the savings rate in January? It was tics, or that unfairly seize on the bor- this evening. It is my pleasure to have plus 5 percent. It’s plus 5 percent be- rower’s lack of understanding about anchored those hours. cause the American people have fig- loan terms. f ured out, we’re in trouble. And so they Predatory lending strips borrowers of are battening down the hatches and PRESIDENT OBAMA’S BUDGET home equity, increases the home- they’re doing everything they can to SPENDS TOO MUCH, TAXES TOO owner’s chances of foreclosure, and de- make sure their ship is in order, their MUCH, AND BORROWS TOO MUCH stabilizes communities. Vacant prop- house is in order so they at least have erties invite criminal activities and af- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a job and so that they can at least take fect neighboring property values. the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- care of their bills. uary 6, 2009, the gentlewoman from What has Congress’ response been? It b 2045 Minnesota (Mrs. BACHMANN) is recog- has been to spend $1 trillion, and then The most common predatory lending nized for 60 minutes as the designee of $410 billion—plus 9,000 earmarks con- tactics include excessive fees and abu- the minority leader. tained in that bill—and sandwiched in sive prepayment penalties. For exam- Mrs. BACHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I between was something called a Fiscal ple, borrowers with high-interest loans thank you for yielding, and I thank Responsibility Summit. Now, people have a strong incentive to refinance as you for this opportunity and the kind- are scratching their heads saying, you soon as their credit improves. However, ness to be able to address this body on people call yourselves fiscally respon- as the Center for Responsible Lending the issue of taxes. We’re very excited sible when you’ve just spent that kind estimates, up to 80 percent of all to be able to have this opportunity. of money, let alone what’s happened subprime mortgages carry a prepay- I’m joined this evening by two won- with the Federal Reserve and all the ment penalty. Homeowners become derful colleagues, Mrs. Foxx of North money that the Federal Reserve has trapped by such provisions, leaving Carolina, and also Mr. GARRETT of New committed? them unable to make cost-effective de- Jersey, who have indicated, also, will- The reason why I’m bringing that up, cisions. ingness to speak to this important Mr. Speaker, is because today marks a Moreover, studies have shown that topic. very important anniversary. I know predatory lenders often target vulner- We see that there is a tremendous Mr. GARRETT remembers this anniver- able groups, including minority groups, change that is about to occur in our sary. It was 1 year ago today that for females, elderly, and low-income bor- Nation. And I just want to begin by the very first time in the history of our rowers. The evidence is clear by the talking about the real problem that we country the Federal Reserve opened concentration of predatory loans in have at hand, and that’s the issue of the discount window to a private in- low-income and minority neighbor- certainty versus uncertainty in our vestment bank called Bear Stearns. We hoods. Congress and President Obama economy. all remember that, it was $29 billion. have both designed legislation to curve There are many people right now who Just preceding that, this body had the downward spiral in foreclosures. have been unwilling to make decisions spent the outrageous sum of $168 bil- These plans are coordinated among about investing in the economy, spend- lion in a stimulus package that was major government and regulatory ing money, buying something, should supposed to rescue our economy from agencies to bring targeted relief to the they save money, should they spend it, diving into the doldrums. So what did American housing market and to can they get a job? And the worry has our body do? We spent $168 billion, and homeowners. been ‘‘certainty.’’ What’s going to hap- we got into helicopters and we dropped The Helping Families Save Their pen next? They feel like one shoe has checks all across the United States and Homes Act, H.R. 1106, is designed to dropped, when will the other shoe drop? said, ‘‘Have a good time. Spend money stabilize the housing market by reduc- What’s it going to be? What’s going to so that our economy doesn’t tank.’’ ing foreclosures, and to help respon- happen? People are just nervous. Our economy tanked because people sible, hardworking Americans who are I don’t know about you, Mr. Speaker, said you can’t spend money like that losing their homes during this eco- I was back in my district this weekend, and think that your house is going to nomic downturn. It could reduce fore- I’m sure you were, too, and people that be in order. So people got nervous, they closures by 20 percent. I saw are very worried about what’s got very worried. The bill ensures that those who seek coming down the horizon because they Then they saw us bail out a private recourse via chapter 13 can do so just saw, in the last 55, 60 days, they investment bank at $29 billion. Well, it through a uniform process. Several im- saw our Congress spend $1 trillion dol- wasn’t long after that that we heard portant points about the bill are that lars and more, once you count the debt that Freddie and Fannie, the secondary it protects lenders from lawsuits, it service on the stimulus bill. They’re home loan mortgage companies, they fixes the Federal Housing Administra- very nervous when they see that level were in bankruptcy. We had to bail tion’s HOPE for Homeowners Program of spending. They’ve never heard of them out. So the Federal taxpayer had by lowering the fees paid by borrowers that before. It’s historic, it’s never to cough up $200 billion to bail out and lenders, and by providing $1,000 happened before. Freddie and Fannie. This really scared payments to servicers for each success- They saw that, and then right after people. ful refinance of existing loans. It re- that they saw us take up the appropria- At the same time, the Federal Gov- duces current fees that have discour- tions bill for the rest of the year which ernment took $400 billion and infused aged lenders from voluntarily partici- spends for the Federal Government, that money into the Federal Home

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7353 Loan Association. People thought, my we’re going to pay for all this spending. country who don’t realize that the stars, what’s about to happen? Well, Congress just had a sugar high. It’s as Democrats are in charge, they’ve been they didn’t even catch a breath, and though every Member of Congress just in charge. In fact, our economy started the Treasury Secretary said, now we ingested a 24 pack of Mountain Dew tanking when the Democrats took over need $700 billion; we’ve got to have $700 and said, ‘‘Hallelujah. I’m on a sugar the Congress in 2007. I think I have a billion for the TARP program, which high. We’re going to spend money and chart to show that; but again, I think was to have money to be able to buy we’re going to rev this economy up.’’ it’s really, really important to talk troubled assets, the mortgage security Well, I’m telling you, if you had a 24 about that. bailout. pack of Mountain Dew, you would not I want to say that our colleagues who And we were told we had to get this only be on a sugar high, you would be were speaking just before we were done within a week or the whole econ- zooming, but you would crash. And made a comment about how it’s Con- omy was going to fail. Well, we had that’s about what we are going to be gress’ job to assure jobs for Americans. that tussle, we had that struggle. And seeing. That crash is called taxes, Mr. Well, the budget they support and the you remember, Mr. Speaker, that last Speaker. And the American people policies that they have followed thus September we were all here in this haven’t seen anything yet when they far have done just the opposite. Chamber. We came in, the galleries open up their tax bills. They’ve done everything they can to were filled with people, the press was At this point, I would like to yield to kill jobs in this country. And let me up in the press box; what were we going the gentlelady from North Carolina to point it out. to do? We were going to pass this his- take it from there. And we’re going to The Democrats took control of the toric level of spending, $700 billion, and go in a game of tennis here tonight. Congress in January of 2007. That’s not the vote failed. It was a Monday. No We’re going to volley back and forth something they like to be reminded of. one could believe it. So there was re- and we will have a great discussion on They want to say that all of the eco- grouping going on; took another vote, taxes. nomic problems that we have in this the vote passed. Only this time it was I yield to the gentlelady from North country are the result of George Bush’s wrapped in another $110 billion worth Carolina (Ms. FOXX). presidency. However, we had 55 of very expensive gift wrap called Ms. FOXX. I thank my colleague straight months of job growth up until ‘‘vote buying.’’ And so that bill was from Minnesota. It’s a little hard to January of 2007; that’s when the Demo- passed. Pretty soon, the year went by, follow her. She is so energized and so crats took control. and between this body and the Federal enthusiastic. The rest of us here to- And look what started happening? Reserve trillions of dollars flew night are that way, too, but we don’t This is the chart. The graph is a little through the door. have the same presence she has, but we bit tough to read, but this is the loss of People were looking for hope and are so fortunate to have her in the Re- jobs going up. We probably should have change; I was looking for hope and publican Caucus. had it going down to make it be a little change. And when January 20 came and I want to add to what she is saying, more specific on what we’re talking the Obama administration was sworn and then yield in a couple of minutes about. But as they said, they don’t in, what did we see? We saw over $1 to our colleague from New Jersey (Mr. want to let a crisis go to waste, but trillion worth of spending out of the GARRETT), who has a lot to say about they don’t want to accept the responsi- gate. And what did it do? Has it calmed this subject tonight. bility for what their getting in control the waters? Has it brought us cer- I want to point out that our col- of Congress did. tainty? Are you kidding? We saw GDP league from Minnesota has set the For 6 years, the first 6 years of Presi- tank. We saw the Dow Jones Industrial stage for what we’re going to talk dent Bush’s administration, the Repub- Average go to such historic lows, no about tonight, and there are lots of licans were in control. Did they do all one could believe it. We were looking things to try to remember. She has the things they should have done? Did at 6000 on the Dow Jones. We saw job gone over a whole list of all of the they do everything right? No. They ab- losses spike through the charts, unbe- spending that was done last year, what solutely did not. I was here for 2 of lievable levels of job losses. Where is has been proposed so far this year. But those years, and colleagues of mine did the certainty? I want to help people just keep in mind our best to cut spending. And we actu- Well, Mr. Speaker, I’m here to say, three simple concepts about what has ally did cut spending that cycle, but we there is a certainty that we can tell been happening in this Congress so far. never got any credit for it because of the American people tonight, and that The budget, which the Democrats the news that came out about the elec- certainty is that their taxes are just support, President Obama’s budget, tions and that kind of thing. about to have the roof blown off. spends too much, taxes too much, and b 2100 They’re going to have the roof blown borrows too much. Those are three off. And it was here in this body, not simple concepts for us to keep in mind. Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. If the too long ago, when President Obama We can talk a lot about bailouts, stim- gentlewoman from Minnesota would stood right here and he told the Amer- ulus, budget, omnibus budget—there yield. ican people in that camera right up are many, many terms. I know the Mrs. BACHMANN. I yield to the gen- there, he said, ‘‘I will not raise taxes American people have difficulty keep- tleman. on 95 percent of the American people. ing up with them because I have dif- Ms. FOXX. This is my colleague from You can take that to the bank.’’ And in ficulty keeping up with them. It’s like New Jersey, Scott Garrett. the course of his remarks, he said that you’re in a whirlwind here with so Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. I just he is going to pass the cap and trade many things happening. want to touch on that one point as far tax. That’s the new tax on energy, The Democrats are living what the as the perception of what the Demo- which 100 percent of Americans are Chief of Staff of the President and the crats did and what the Republicans did. going to be spending. former head of the conference here And I do this not for any partisan rea- That’s what we want to talk about said. He said, ‘‘Let’s never let a crisis sons because I do honestly believe that tonight, Mr. Speaker. We have to talk go to waste.’’ He wanted, with a Demo- all of us here tonight actually believe, about this tonight. We’ve been talking crat-controlled Congress and a Demo- as the majority of the American public about all the spending; now it’s time to crat in the White House—talk about believes, that we are in a difficult situ- talk about the taxing. And it’s really a being on a sugar high, that is really a ation; that people are hurting; that shame because the time to have been sugar high because this is the first jobs are being lost, as your chart so talking about taxing is when we were time in over 8 years that they have had adequately demonstrates there; and we talking about spending. that situation. And I think it’s impor- don’t need to be partisan about it, but We didn’t even have a paragraph of tant that we point that out because we do need to set the record straight. conversation on this floor about how there are still many people in this And I will tell you this little story.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.000 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7354 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 I have served here for 6 years now, occur under Republican control. That That’s the other little frustrating and I have served on the Budget Com- occurred under Democrat control, thing about all of this, and the Amer- mittee. And I was here when the Re- spending. Stimulus 2, $187 billion, ican taxpayer must be so frustrated publicans were in charge. And I, like again occurred under Democrat control with how, quote, ‘‘their government,’’ you, was frustrated with the fact that and leadership. Auto bailout, of course, and it is their government, works, how many times during our tenure in office that too, $14 billion, and that occurred Washington works. We spend the when Republicans controlled the House again during Democrat control of the money today, and then a day or a week we were spending too much money. House and Senate. TARP, something or a month from then, we’ll come back You and I voted against a lot of those that I have been on the floor hours and say we are going to have a hearing expenditures, but as a party we were. upon hours talking and railing against on this and see exactly what we spent And that’s why in 2006 the American how we’re spending so much money the money on. We spent $350 billion, voters voted with their wallets, if you there. First it was $350 billion at the then $700 billion without so much as a will, and said let’s throw them out and end of last year, and then they added markup on it, which is, for folks who let’s put in a party that is campaigning another $350 billion on that. People say don’t know, the way the bill goes on a platform of fiscal responsibility. we’re bailing out Wall Street. We’re through and you can say I want to put And the reason I point out that I serve just finding out now where some of this in or take that out. Without so on the Budget Committee was because that money is going. Apparently it’s much as a markup, we spend this $700 for 4 years when they were in the mi- going to AIG executives, who made billion; then Congress can comes back nority, they were saying a lot of the some of these great decisions that and says let’s take a look at this. We things that you and I agreed with and brought that company down to where saw that on TARP 1. We saw that on that you and I were saying, that we it is today, in bonuses and what have TARP 2. In essence, you could say we you. So there’s $700 billion in TARP were spending too much money and did that on the stimulus as well. We under Democrat control. The next one, were going in the wrong direction. So I rushed right through how many pages? pre-TARP loans, $300 billion. And, fi- perhaps naively hoped that in 2006 I’m forgetting. nally, a stimulus bill, stimulus 1, that when they took the majority, they Mrs. BACHMANN. It was 1,073 pages was July of last year, if I’m not mis- were going to put in practice much of on the stimulus, which not one Member taken, $152 billion. of Congress read. It wasn’t released to what they said about the budget on So you add them up, and I’m not their campaign trail in their rhetoric. going to do that in my head, but you the public until after midnight. I kept But, you know, they didn’t. They don’t have 400, 187, 14, 700, 300, $152 billion. my staff here until 9 o’clock at night do it in 2006, and they didn’t do it now This all occurred during the time that hoping we could have a chance to read in the 2008 election as well. And that’s this bill. I released them at 9. It didn’t Speaker PELOSI and HARRY REID were where we are right now. running things on the floor. They could come on-line until after midnight. And However, I will credit them with have stopped, and it’s easier in the had the Members of Congress stayed up being able to say that they have inher- Senate than here, but they could have all night and had we not taken one ited the problems, but, of course, the stopped each and every one of these. break and just read it, we would have facts don’t speak to that as well. They could have put any restrictions had 23 seconds per page to read that. You’re looking at a chart right there on each and every one of these. And Not one person could read it. that says ‘‘jobs lost since the start of maybe the gentlewoman from Min- I think there is a reason for it. We the Democrat majority,’’ and even nesota would like to chime in on this know why. There was no stimulus con- without my glasses on, I can see at the one, and that is to talk about how they tained in the stimulus bill, nothing bottom of the XY-axis, it is January of didn’t put any restrictions on these that would help small businesses. We 2007, and that is the starting point, and points. They basically said here’s $700 even had essentially an admission of then the line goes off the charts. All billion, out the window, any way you that this morning from President you need is a little rocket on engine of want to spend it. Obama because President Obama said how to succeed in business without Ms. FOXX. And is it your memory now he has to have a plan for small really trying and just shoot up through also that President Obama, then Sen- business. There wasn’t much of any- the end over there, if you’re familiar ator Obama, came back here off the thing to speak of in the stimulus bill or with that movie, and you would see campaign trail and put his blessing on in his budget bill for the rest of the that during their tenure, you lost the the TARP bailout? It was my under- year; so now he wants to have a new jobs. But it’s not only the fact that standing that the Congress was con- small business bill that is quite a bit of they didn’t inherit the lost jobs be- trolled by the Democrats and that money. But what does it do? It funds cause they were in control of the House President Obama, then Senator Obama, the SBA, government. It funds more and Senate. I don’t have a little easel said, ‘‘I support it too.’’ Is that your government. It has no nothing to do here, but let me just share this chart. memory? with tax reductions for small business. I don’t know whether you have one up Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. It’s ab- You talk to any businessman. I’m a there by you as well. solutely my memory. And the reason I small businessman with my husband. The other mantra that they will say remember it is because there were a We started a business from scratch, in the media, and I’ve been on TV few of us in the House who were raising and I’ll tell you what would help: shows and radio shows, and the anchors our hand at that time and saying what Lower the tax rate for businesses. will say, well, didn’t the Democrats in- are we spending $700 billion on? The American businesses pay the second herit all of this spending? Not exactly, idea was the so-called purchase of toxic highest tax rate in the world, 34 per- not when you really look down to it. assets, which never did occur, and we cent. Imagine. You want to have cer- Let me give you about five quick said shouldn’t there, A, be other alter- tainty in the marketplace? Bring the points that I can run through here. natives considered; B, another imple- corporate tax rate from 34 percent This too is going back to the bottom of mentation; and, C, shouldn’t there be down to 9 percent. your XY-axis, January of 2007, when restrictions or strings, if you will, at- The world right now is nervous. We HARRY REID was in charge over in the tached to some of this? All of that was think we’re nervous in the United Senate and Speaker PELOSI was in dismissed and put aside. But you’re ab- States. The world doesn’t know where charge here as Speaker of the House. solutely correct. Senator Obama at to invest. How do we know that the Let’s see what has occurred from Janu- that time supported it, as did the lead- world is nervous? This weekend, and ary, 2007, to where we are now, and this ership of this House. Not only did they this is humorous, you have the specter is March. I will just run through a few support it in this House, they pushed it of the Chinese communists lecturing quick numbers. through so quickly that none of us the Obama administration, could you The omnibus, most recent, fiscal year really had an opportunity. We never please stop spending so much money, 2009 omnibus, $410 billion. That didn’t had any markup on this bill. President Obama? You’re making me

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nervous. I’m worried that I am going to an era of different government. But all who has joined us, Dr. BROUN, knows, I lose my Chinese debt pretty soon if you we have dealt with has been a series of know the gentlelady from North Caro- don’t get a grip on your spending. Then broken promises. One promise after an- lina is aware of this, the top 1 percent you have European socialists saying to other. of income earners in the United States the Obama administration, gee, we You highlighted the issue of not hav- pay 40 percent of all the taxes in the don’t want to spend all the money that ing 5 days to read the bill. I think that United States. you want us to spend. that’s an extremely important thing. Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Wait a Isn’t it interesting that you have an The American people take our job seri- minute, would you please repeat that American President now that’s making ously even if some of our colleagues for the people who are watching to- the world nervous? We were all told don’t take their job seriously, but they night so that they understand very that the President was going to bring expect us to be here to vote and they clearly what you just said? Say it slow the world together. We were going to expect us to read the bills. I am getting for us down south. have unity. All of our allies were going more and more questions from people, Mrs. BACHMANN. I know these Min- to be on board. Our allies are running have you read the bills? I am being nesota accents are a little tough to get like mice off a sinking ship saying we much more diligent about reading bills through, but I also want to mention, don’t want any part of this out-of-con- these days because of that. But all we just for point of reference, I am a Fed- trol spending because our allies have have gotten are broken promises from eral tax attorney. That’s my back- been down that road themselves. the President and from the Democrats ground. That’s what I do. Taxes are us. I’ll tell you if this out-of-control who are in charge. And I think that’s But the top 1 percent of income earn- spending would have worked, Japan really a sad situation. ers pay 40 percent of all the taxes. The would have been looking great for 10 Earmarks, for example, as our col- top 5 percent of income earners in the years rather than this ‘‘lost decade.’’ league from Minnesota pointed out, the United States pay 60 percent of all Europe would be the beacon, the envy bill that was passed the other day, the taxes. The top 10 percent of all income of the world for investment. Instead, omnibus bill that was passed the other earners pay 80 percent of all taxes. these are economies in shambles, and I day, had 8,500 earmarks in it. Now, it Today in the United States, 40 per- think that’s what the American people may be that some of those are worth- cent of all Americans pay no taxes. are worried about. while projects, but we had a promise And under President Obama’s plan, 50 And I yield back to the gentleman from our President that he would not percent of all Americans will pay no from New Jersey. I think they’re wor- sign any bill with any earmarks in it. taxes. ried because they know. The American He would go through line item by line This weekend I was up in the north- people get it that they’re going to have item and take those out. That is an- ern part of my district, probably no to pay the bill. other promise that’s gone by the way- one in this group made more than Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. The side. It’s just not going to happen. $50,000 a year. All the people I spoke to American people get it, although we I think what we are seeing is the were very upset with President comment that he made without his did that hear from our President here a Obama’s plan. They were upset because teleprompter that he does believe in couple of weeks ago. He said, ‘‘I get it.’’ they believe in tax fairness. They be- wealth transfer. I think we know now Unfortunately, I don’t think he does. I lieve that every American should pay why he always wants a teleprompter in think what he does get is the idea of a something, no matter what their in- front of him because when allowed to new movement he is leading, and that come is, everybody should have some- speak off the cuff sometimes he says is a movement of redistribution of the thing in on the deal. some things that really reveal what it wealth in this country, and basically Why? We all benefit from national is. The comment about ‘‘never let a cri- he’s doing it by burdening the respon- defense. We all benefit from roads. We sis go to waste,’’ of course, he didn’t sible taxpayer, the responsible family, all benefit from corrections. All of us say that, his Chief of Staff said it. But the responsible American, and putting benefit. All of us should be paying it. the wealth transfer I think is some- it on the irresponsible ones. And it’s I will yield to our counterpart from thing that the American people are be- sort of funny, and maybe ‘‘funny’’ isn’t Georgia. ginning to understand. right word for this, but if you look at Mrs. BACHMANN. You had men- Mr. BROUN of Georgia. I thank the the budget documents that came out, tioned that you felt that the President gentlelady. the title of it is ‘‘An Era of Responsi- maybe was revealing his true colors in I just came from a meeting where I bility.’’ This is anything but an era of an off-the-cuff remark, but I have in heard some very interesting informa- responsibility. front of me a copy of the President’s tion about this taxing, this cap and And I will close with this: Just as I budget. This is in black and white and tax, as we are calling it. The Demo- was hopeful in 2006 and 2007 for the anyone can read it. And this is page 5, crats call it cap and trade. Democrat leadership that they would ‘‘Inheriting a Legacy of Misplaced Pri- But there is a video called ‘‘Apoca- be responsible in this area, I honestly orities.’’ I think the President is pretty lypse? No!’’ This was Christopher Lord, was hopeful that when President clear about wealth transfer. He’s been Christopher Monckton, one of the Obama became the President that he very clear. He’s got it down in black greatest outspoken people in this would fulfill his pledge that he would and white. And I will quote from it. It world, about how the global warming is give the American public and all of us says this: ‘‘While middle class families just totally a farce, and he was talking in Congress the opportunity to have 4 have been playing by the rules living about how it was going to hurt the or 5 days actually to have any bill up up to their responsibilities as neigh- poorest of people, not only in the on the Web site so they could see it and bors and citizens, those at the com- United States but in the world. He was read it and comment on it otherwise. manding heights of our economy have begging for us, not as a Congress, as a And you pointed out so accurately that not.’’ government, for us to not put this cap in this case with an 1,100-page bill, it and tax policy in place, because what went through and no one saw it. b 2115 it’s going to do is it’s going to put peo- Ms. FOXX. I wanted to say some of He is saying that people, the top end, ple out of work, it’s going to lock them the same things. I think that you and have not been playing by the rules. into a welfare state, which is going to I and conservatives here in Congress Now, this is a canard that gets re- hurt everybody’s pocketbook long really were hopeful that when the peated over and over and over again, term. It’s going to hurt small business, Democrats took control of Congress, saying that people have not been pay- it’s going to hurt the economy of not when President Obama was elected, ing their taxes, somehow it’s been un- only the United States, but the world. that they would keep their promises. fair and they have skimmed. And he was begging us not to pass a I agree with you. We wanted change. But as the gentleman from New Jer- cap and tax policy here in the United We wanted to cut spending. We wanted sey knows, and that as our colleague States and was saying that we in

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.001 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7356 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 America need to do the right things. I know that the gentlewoman from take people who are willing to say the He was showing us graphs, and the lies, North Carolina has a great graph on truth to tell the American people. actually, that are being put out by a this. Those stories you heard, those prom- NASA scientist by the name of Mr. Ms. FOXX. Well, there is a chart here ises you were made, not true. Hanson and others who are promoting that showed that in addition to the Mrs. BACHMANN. I just want to in- this, now they talk about climate high rate we are going to be paying for ject, actually, this economic situation change. the cap and tax that the President has that we are in is not too tough to fig- But Lord was saying in the last 7 in his budget bill, what I wanted to ure out. It’s real doable. We have a years we have actually had global cool- point out and wanted to ask the gentle- plan for it, and it’s pretty simple. ing, global cooling. So they have lady, it’s my understanding again that We have a very high rate of tax on in- stopped talking about global warming the President promised that he was vestments. If we would take that tax because we have had global cooling for going to cut taxes for 95 percent of tax- off, it’s called capital gains, and zero it the last 7 years. And this was in the payers; is that right? out and shout out from the house tops, normal variability of climate going up Mrs. BACHMANN. That’s right. for 4 years we will have a zero capital and down over the years. That’s what he said to the American gains. You invest, take your money off And he was pointing out that sun people. the sideline, put it into the market- spots, sun activity actually has more Ms. FOXX. And yet he left out saying place, any profit you get back, it’s to do with the temperature than the he is going to raise taxes, though, a lot yours, 100 percent. CO2 that has been emitted. more for 100 percent of the people by If we would have a zero capital gain, Mrs. BACHMANN. Yes, that’s the instituting cap and tax. and if we would take our corporate tax solar flares, that’s true. Again, they like to call it cap and rate from 34 percent down to 9 percent, As a matter of fact, in President trade, but it’s going to be cap and tax. cut everyone’s marginal tax rate by 5 Obama’s budget, which he has already Because as you so eloquently pointed percent, even President Obama wants submitted, and which we are going to out, it’s going to raise the cost of en- to increase the death tax. We say kill be taking up, and we are going to be ergy for everybody in this country. the death tax. That’s not a good idea to voting on with appropriations, he has And these people, I think they are just have Uncle Sam reach into somebody’s already included, as a baseline part of playing God. coffin after they have died and take 45 his budget, remember, his budget is I think they think that we human percent of what they own. historic. beings are going to offset the action of And get rid of that alternative min- It’s so huge, the trillions of dollars the sun. They think they are God, and imum tax. You do that, next quarter are so huge we can’t even get our arms around it, 646 billion in new taxes for they are going to be playing that role. you have an increase in GDP and jobs. But I wanted to point out something the energy tax. I am sure that the gen- Next quarter you have the Dow Jones tonight that we haven’t said that I tleman and his constituents from Geor- up. Next quarter, you are going to see gia, and I am sure that the gentlelady think is very important to point out, unprecedented levels of growth and un- from North Carolina and her constitu- and I think our colleague from New precedented levels of investment in the ents, and the gentleman from New Jer- Jersey reminded me this is something United States from the world markets. sey and his constituents would be in- we should be saying, we know, as Re- This is pretty easy to solve. terested in knowing, well, what does publicans, that Americans are hurting. But the Obama administration has that work out for me? What does that We know lots of people in our districts taken a completely different view. mean that I am going to owe? who are suffering as a result of the ac- They have taken the view of the Well, people in the Sixth District of tions and the policies that have been French Revolution, which is to tax, Minnesota, we need heat. We don’t taken, particularly in the last couple tax, tax and spend, spend, spend. And have a choice in wintertime. We have of years, and we don’t want that hurt now they have even taken another cue to turn our furnace on. This is very, to go on. from them, off with their heads. very large concern, and I hope we have So Republicans have been offering al- Because in their budget proposal, by time to discuss it before the Democrats ternatives. The Democrats are accus- their own language, the evil are the top ask us to vote on this bill. ing us of being the Party of ‘‘No.’’ You 1 percent of income earners. And that’s Because we are looking at a good know, that’s a cute little thing that who they want to whack off their $4,000 per household in increased costs they can try to hang around our necks. heads. right away to pay for energy. Energy But I saw something today in Roll But the Wall Street Journal even had touches every part of our life, and we Call, can’t take the credit for it, wish a great article that said this. It said have got a graph up here that talks I could. I love it the way cartoonists you could confiscate the wealth of ev- about what President Obama and the can sometimes put in just a couple of eryone making $75,000 or more, it still Democrats’ tax plan will do. words what we are thinking about, but wouldn’t be enough to pay for all the Gas prices are going to go up. We all there is a cartoon that says the Party spending that President Barack Obama remember how much fun it was last of Owe and showing a picture of a don- wants to spend. July to pay over $4 a gallon and we key. Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. And thought we were quick on our way to $6 Now, I like that. We are not the there was a whole bunch of points I a gallon, $8 a gallon? Well, remember Party of ‘‘No’’ because we have pre- wanted to raise on the things you said that? Welcome back to it. That’s called sented alternatives. Last year we pre- right then, but I will go with the whole cap and tax. Welcome back to now see- sented alternatives when it came to en- bunch of them. ing your home heating fuel, or in the ergy. We had an all-of-the-above en- On the middle point with regard to case of Georgia, going up 40 percent. ergy plan. We have an alternative to taxation of capital gains and what have Can you imagine if your constituents the budget. you, it may sound, at first blush, that get an electric bill that will be 40 per- We had an alternative to the stim- when you say, well, we have to address cent higher than what it was before? ulus, but we are being accused of being the capital gains situation in this Remember also what happened at the the Party of ‘‘No,’’ but I think calling country, we are talking about the rich grocery store last summer when gas them the Party of Owe is the appro- out there. But when you realize that as prices went up. The food prices went priate thing to do, because they don’t across the board, Americans are hurt- up. Why? Energy is in everything we want to take responsibility. It’s all a ing generally pretty much across the eat. sham. board. A lot of people who are hurting Also if you go to Wal-mart, if you go I tell you, again, this place reminds are senior citizens, retirees, people who to Target to buy something to wear. me of the emperor’s new clothes. You rely upon their pensions, whether it’s Energy is a component, a basic build- know, there is this feeling that there is union pension or private pension or ing block of everything. something out there, and it’s going to otherwise.

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How pretty darn soon if you can get the tril- ity of the country, fortunately, is not do we deal with it? lions of dollars, as people say, are sit- seeing the systemic problems of more We are losing freedom by the boat- ting on the sidelines and to start in- than 60, more than 40, or even more load. That’s the difference between, I vesting it. How can you do that? than 20. think, what the Republican agenda is You can do that in a couple of ways. What does that mean? That changes and the Democrat agenda. We believe You hit on the main ones by lowering the whole nature of the discussion as in the Constitution. We believe in the the capital gains tax. Honestly, right to how we go about fixing the problem. first amendment, religious freedom, now, people aren’t saying I don’t have If the problem is in certain areas, then freedom of speech. We believe in the any capital gains in this marketplace. you don’t need a specific blanket ap- second amendment, the right to hold But if you gave that incentive to say proach across the board in order to do and bear arms. We believe in these im- get into the market today, you will be it. You don’t need to raise taxes on portant values. We believe in bedrock tax free or have a lower rate, people small businesses or families in my values for our country. would get off the side and they would neck of the woods or in your neck of Marriage should be between a man get into the market immediately. the woods to solve the problem. and a woman; life should be protected The other point that I just wanted to You need to target some of the relief. from the moment of conception. We be- touch on, the other point here, I will More importantly, you need some of lieve in these values. We believe in se- spend 2 minutes on it. In the spending the Republican solutions, and I’ll yield curing our Nation. We believe in taking plan we have had in the last several back to you on this, as the RSC, the on the enemy and winning and not weeks, actually several months now, Republican Study Committee, has al- being ashamed to win. we have had hundreds of billion of dol- ready come out with, addressing cap- One thing we don’t believe in are lars. And this is a side note, other peo- ital gains, corporate taxes, section 179, open borders. We don’t believe that we ple are criticizing the other side of the and the like, as far as encouraging should have open borders. We believe aisle, how much debt the Bush admin- businesses and individuals to get their that we should deal with the drug prob- entrepreneurial spirit going again. istration added during their 8 years in lem that is coming across, and the ille- Those sort of things will address this office, it was something like $4.6 tril- gal alien problem. And we believe in problem in a way that will affect ev- low taxes. We don’t believe in high lion in his 8 years in office. eryone and improve lifting up the taxes. And our country will change for- Just in 3 years, it’s doubling. But, ba- prices again and getting it back to the ever if this new energy tax comes in. sically, remember these numbers, marketplace where we want it to be. Did the gentleman from New Jersey President Bush was in office for 8 So I just wanted to bring that one have something you wanted to say, or years, he saw it go up about 4.6. Presi- little chart to try to set the record dent Obama has been in office for less straight as to where the foreclosure can I go to the gentleman from Geor- than 2 months or something like that, problem is in this country, how it is ac- gia? Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Thank you a month, and you will see the debt go tually impacting only a segment of the up by $5.6 trillion in a 3-year period of economy, and what we need to do is ad- for yielding. In fact, you’re exactly time. It is incredible. dress this in a widespread approach, as right. I think one point I really want Part of that money, where is that I’m sure you’re addressing and I’m sure to reiterate about this cap and tax or money going to, deals with what the the gentleman from Georgia would also cap and trade issue—whose going to be gentlelady from North Carolina was like to address as well. hurt the worst? It’s going to be the talking about before. And that is to the Mrs. BACHMANN. Isn’t it interesting poor people in this country because whole foreclosure situation, home pric- that we are getting a blanket approach groceries will go up, the cost of medi- ing, what have you, and just follow to about everything there is. I know cations will go up so the elderly and with me on this. the gentleman from Georgia had the sick and the people who are on Their argument is this, foreclosures brought up the whole cap and tax fixed incomes will have more to pay for are happening out there right now. We thing, where we have to have a global their drugs. agree. That is causing problems across warming tax, an energy tax, and every- It’s going to hurt the poorest and the the board and it is causing a devalu- body has to pay. people who are in the least position to ation of people’s homes across the I thought it was interesting. I was be able to take care of paying this board. Therefore, everyone must pay back in the district over the weekend higher tax. And this cap and tax is higher taxes, increase spending to try and I heard President Obama on the going to hurt everybody. But it’s going to prevent the foreclosure problem. radio admitting essentially and saying to cost jobs. So that is going to make Now, you raised some of the avenues that he wants to have this new energy more people unemployed. Not only of what we could do to address fore- tax passed, but he does not want imple- that, as the chart says, President closure, and I can go into them as well. mentation to occur until after 2012. Obama’s budget spends too much, it But I just want to give some facts, and The reason why, he said, is because taxes too much, it borrows too much. I can do it with a picture. It’s not a the economy is in such rough shape But it also hurts the poor too much. cartoon like Ms. FOXX had over there, right now, businesses and the economy Mrs. BACHMANN. It hurts the poor actually had a picture. This was actu- couldn’t take it. And that’s a general and it hurts every segment of the econ- ally in USA Today, and what does this admission that this new energy tax is omy. chart show, yes, it’s pretty neat. It going to tank our economy. As a mat- Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Absolutely. shows county-by-county the number of ter of fact, I had a conservation over Mrs. BACHMANN. Because, remem- foreclosure actions, defaults and no- the weekend with some people who are ber, how did this start? The housing tices on auctions and repossessions per experts in this area, and they said this problem. Mr. GARRETT started talking 1,000. Basically, this is a chart to show new energy tax literally has the poten- about that with foreclosures. This you where the problems are in this tial of reducing American’s standard of hurts the housing segment where you country. living 30 percent. Thirty percent reduc- showed on the chart—Florida, Arizona, tion in standard of living because of California, Nevada. They have all sorts b 2130 this energy tax. of trouble. What does President Obama So as people look at this and they The worst feature of all is that it want to do? He wants to take away the think to the rhetoric that we hear from gives all the power to Washington, home mortgage interest deduction that

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Absolutely. ward will help small businesses, it will product—all the growth and wealth, Every single policy that we hear from create jobs. over 27 percent is going to be sucked this administration is going to hurt Just in Georgia, the proposal that we right out of this country, across the the most vulnerable in our economic had on the stimulus would have cre- borders, as my picture here of the system. ated twice the number of jobs—73,000 United States, and brought right here Mrs. BACHMANN. It’s raising taxes. new jobs above what the Democrats to Washington or this body and all the Mr. BROUN of Georgia. In fact, he say that they hope to save or create, bureaucrats to spend however they wants to cap charitable giving in this using their own rules. want to. country, which means people won’t Mrs. BACHMANN. If the gentleman Is that what Americans want—more give to the Salvation Army, people would yield, the jobs that are being than a quarter of the wealth of this won’t give to the Red Cross. created are new government jobs. They country to be spent right here as op- Mrs. BACHMANN. Imagine what it aren’t new jobs in the private sector. posed out of their own pockets? will do to churches. Imagine—already They’re government jobs that will And taxing too much. You hit the churches are being decimated. There’s somehow have to be continued and sus- numbers before as far as the tax rates a foundation in Minnesota that does tained. and how it’s going to hit on the fami- good work all across the world helping Mr. BROUN of Georgia. We would lies and the budgets. And the last one people to learn how to hear. They have have created 73,000 more jobs in Geor- on borrowing too much, the debt of had donors already this year pull gia alone, under the Republican pro- this country, again, it’s impossible to $300,000 worth of donations because posal, at half the cost. And we would wrap your hands around these things, they are going to lose that donation. not have borrowed any money at all. We’re going to see donations dry up but the debt of this country, the public We would not have borrowed from our debt will reach 58.7 percent of the GDP to some of the best organizations; min- grandchildren like the stimulus bill or this year, and eventually rise to two- istries, churches, synagogues. This is ‘‘non-stimulus’’ bill did. thirds of GDP in a couple of years. serious, what’s happening right now. Mrs. BACHMANN. If the gentleman Last time it was like that was in Mr. BROUN of Georgia. If the gentle- would yield, the cost of these jobs in early 1950s after the war, and what lady will yield, down in my part of the the stimulus were easily $300,000 per have you, and it’s been on a steady de- country, down the in southeast, we had jobs. Some of these jobs were $650,000 cline ever since even then. Charts show a couple of little hurricanes a few years per job that they created. back. Hurricane Katrina and Rita. Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. I was it’s a rocket ship going right back up If you look at the Federal response just going to raise that point. As I am again, all in the last 3 months and pro- and compare it to the private response, standing here listening to your facts, jected over the next 10 years. where FEMA came in. People are still I’m looking down at the floor at the Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Will the gen- living in trailer houses. The neighbor- well and I see President Obama’s budg- tleman yield? The sad thing is our chil- hoods are still empty, businesses are et and the three points that are a dren and grandchildren are going to still boarded. But where the private takeaway from tonight: Spends too live at a lower standard. Their stand- sector, churches, synagogues, and much, taxes too much, and borrows too ard of living is going to be lower than other private entities went in to help much. ours today because they are going to be these people in need, communities are It spends too much of our current saddled with this huge debt. back functioning. People are back in hard-earned dollars that everybody has You cannot borrow and spend your their homes, they’re back in their busi- to work so hard to earn; it taxes too way into prosperity. In fact, our Presi- nesses. The communities are back much on the American family and the dent has, if you all remember, came functioning. small business and the farmer; and it and told the Republican conference What that shows is that the private borrows too much from our children that he wasn’t going to make the same sector works a whole lot better than and our grandchildren because they mistake that Franklin Delano Roo- how the bureaucracy works when it has will be the ones who actually pay for sevelt made when FDR got scared and all of its encumbrances. How it crawls all this. quit spending. Our President said he slowly and how it cannot really re- On the spending side of the equation, was going to continue to spend. And spond. I know it’s hard to get your hands it’s just wrong. That policy during the Now, we have an administration that around some of these numbers some- Depression did not get us out of that wants to take money away from those times. You just did when you gave the Depression. entities that work the best to help peo- number. First it was 2 million, then it Warren Buffet just last week said he ple. I just don’t understand it. was 3 million, then it was 4 million thinks we’ve been pushed off the edge We have, as Republicans, we have so- jobs that this administration said they and our economy is heading into a very lutions. We are not just the Party of were going to save. Whichever number severe depression or a very severe re- ‘‘No,’’ as Ms. FOXX was saying. We have it is, if you add it all up and divide it cession. And we may well be. I hope presented solution after solution after out, you’re right, it comes to around and pray that we aren’t. solution. $300,000 per job that they’re going to be But, I know this. Every single thing Unfortunately, on the Wall Street spending to save. that this administration and the lead- bailout, President Bush and his Demo- But it’s a heck of a lot of people in ership in this House and this Senate cratic Treasury Secretary, Hank my district, and I’m sure even more have proposed is going to hurt our Paulson, wouldn’t consider our pro- down in Georgia, who would love to economy. It’s going to deepen the re- posals. Our proposals were to cut the have a $300,000 job, even if it is only for cession, it’s going to prolong it, and capital gains tax. That would even a week, a month, or half a year. That’s may push us into a severe depression. bring a lot of money offshore into the type of job, by the way, that the We keep hearing this is the worst America and free up a lot of capital so government’s creating—-short-term economic time since the Great Depres- banks could start loaning to banks job. These are not careers. sion. No, this is the worst time since again. Banks could loan to people Once this job screwing in light bulbs, Jimmy Carter and those failed policies. again. We had other solutions that which was one, or painting a fence, or What our President has done is he’s President Bush and Hank Paulson another, once that job is done, that job bought into that philosophy, that wouldn’t consider. is done. Keynesian economic policy, which is

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socialism. That’s is exactly what he’s regulated monopolized system in this Mr. DREIER (at the request of Mr. bought into. country. But we do agree, the three of BOEHNER) for today and March 17 on ac- In fact, the way I have described it in us here, I believe, without putting count of a death in the family. some floor speeches is that we have a words in your mouth, that we do have Mr. LUCAS (at the request of Mr. steamroller of socialism being shoved a problem with health care afford- BOEHNER) for today, March 17 and 18 on down the throats of the American peo- ability for a vast majority of Ameri- account of family business. ple. It’s going to strangle the American cans, and we do need to address that. Mr. GARY G. MILLER of California (at economy and it’s going to slay the But you do not address that, as is done the request of Mr. BOEHNER) for today American people economically. And in President Obama’s budget, which and the balance of the week on account it’s going to. spends too much, taxes too much, and of medical reasons. That steamroller of socialism is borrows too much, by putting in f being driven by NANCY PELOSI and placeholders of $634 billion, which we HARRY REID. We have got to stop it be- do not have today, which goes to point SPECIAL ORDERS GRANTED cause it’s going to hurt the poor people three, borrows too much, that $634 bil- By unanimous consent, permission to in this country. It’s going to hurt the lion to pay for our health care today, address the House, following the legis- small businessmen and women in this which will basically come from our lative program and any special orders country. It’s going to hurt the most kids and our grandkids. We do not heretofore entered, was granted to: economically disadvantaged in this solve the affordability issue by simply (The following Members (at the re- country. spending more money and taxing more quest of Ms. WOOLSEY) to revise and ex- We have policies that we are pro- money. You do it by ways that I know tend their remarks and include extra- posing that will actually help small the good doctor has addressed on this neous material:) businesses, that will create jobs. It will floor before, by reforming the system, Ms. WOOLSEY, for 5 minutes, today. create paychecks instead of welfare getting out inefficiencies in this sys- Mr. DEFAZIO, for 5 minutes, today. checks. That’s exactly what we are try- tem, providing for the competition on Ms. KAPTUR, for 5 minutes, today. ing to promote, is giving people a pay- various levels under the system, to ba- (The following Members (at the re- check instead of a welfare check. sically overhauling the system to make quest of Mr. POE of Texas) to revise and b 2145 sure that health care is available to extend their remarks and include ex- every American citizen, young and old traneous material:) Mrs. BACHMANN. We haven’t even alike. We have talked about that on Mr. BURTON of Indiana, for 5 minutes, talked yet about socialized medicine. the floor before. We need to do that. today, March 17, 18 and 19. We talked a little bit about cap and Spending, taxing, and borrowing is not Mr. POE of Texas, for 5 minutes, tax. We haven’t even talked about so- going to fix the health care system. March 23. cialized medicine. Find me one model Mr. BROUN of Georgia. Let me tell Mr. MCCOTTER, for 5 minutes, today. anywhere in the world where socialized you about one government regulation Mr. JONES, for 5 minutes, March 23. medicine has delivered better care at a that came in to the health care system Mr. MCHENRY, for 5 minutes, today, cheaper cost. You want to talk about when I was practicing medicine down March 17, 18 and 19. tax increases, socialized medicine will in rural South Georgia to show you and Mr. MORAN of Kansas, for 5 minutes, break the bank in the United States, just give you a picture of how much today, March 17, 18 and 19. because now President Obama even government regulation increases the Mr. FLAKE, for 5 minutes, March 17, voted for the SCHIP bill, which we all cost for all of us. 18 and 19. know will now for the first time swing I had a small automated lab with Mr. ROE of Tennessee, for 5 minutes, the door wide open for illegal aliens. I quality controls, because when I did March 17. know one thing, the people in my dis- tests I wanted to make sure that the Mr. FORBES, for 5 minutes, March 17. trict are not interested in paying for tests were appropriate and that they the health care for illegal aliens that gave good results so that I could treat f are coming across our border to be yet my patients in the best way. Well, Con- SENATE BILLS REFERRED one more magnet to bring people in gress passed a bill that was signed into Bills of the Senate of the following that should come here legally. That is law called the Clinical Laboratory Im- titles were taken from the Speaker’s a very real concern that we are ad- provement Act, CLIA. If a patient table and, under the rule, referred as dressing, and that is why I think peo- came in to see me and had a red, sore follows: ple are so concerned right now about throat and I want to find out if they what they are seeing on the taxing cli- had a bacterial infection or a viral in- S. 39. An act to repeal section 10(f) of Pub- mate. lic Law 93–531, commonly known as the fection, I would do a CBC. It cost $12 ‘‘Bennett Freeze’’; to the Committee on Nat- Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. And and I could do it in 5 minutes. CLIA health care issues, and we have a doc- ural Resources. shut down my lab. I had to send them S. 338. An act to amend the Omnibus In- tor here with us tonight, is obviously to the hospital. It cost $75 and took 2 dian Advancement Act to modify the date as something we are all concerned about. to 3 hours. That is with just one gov- of which certain tribal land of the Lytton We know too many people who are in ernment regulatory burden. Rancheria of California is deemed to be held small businesses who just say, I just in trust and to provide for the conduct of can’t afford to buy insurance for my f certain activities on the land; to the Com- employees. We know too many individ- mittee on Natural Resources. LEAVE OF ABSENCE uals who are not working right now, f and they say they cannot afford to pay By unanimous consent, leave of ab- for the health insurance costs, not be- sence was granted to: ADJOURNMENT cause doctors charge too much, and we Mr. WELCH (at the request of Mr. Mrs. BACHMANN. Madam Speaker, I have a doctor right here, but just be- HOYER) for today and March 17 on ac- move that the House do now adjourn. cause of the nature and the system count of attending a Vermont health The motion was agreed to; accord- that we have in place. care summit. ingly (at 9 o’clock and 48 minutes The system we have right now, again, Mr. BOUSTANY (at the request of Mr. p.m.), under its previous order, the to get back to the facts, we do not have BOEHNER) for today and the balance of House adjourned until tomorrow, Tues- a free market health care system in the week on account of attending fu- day, March 17, 2009, at 10:30 a.m., for this country; we have a government- neral services for Charles Boustany, Sr. morning-hour debate.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:50 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR09\H16MR9.001 H16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7360 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 EXPENDITURE REPORTS CONCERNING OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL Reports concerning the foreign currencies and U.S. dollars utilized for Speaker-Authorized Official Travel during the fourth quarter of 2008 and the first quarter of 2009 pursuant to Public Law 95–384 are as follows:

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, KAY A. KING, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN JAN. 29 AND FEB. 3, 2009

Date Per diem 1 Transportation Other purposes Total U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar U.S. dollar Name of Member or employee Country Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Foreign equivalent Arrival Departure currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency or U.S. currency 2 currency 2 currency 2 currency 2

Kay A. King ...... 1/29 1/30 Brazil ...... 438.00 (3) ...... 438.00 1/30 2/01 Argentina ...... 698.00 (3) ...... 698.00 2/01 2/03 Panama ...... 592.00 (3) ...... 592.00 Committee total ...... 1,728.00 ...... 1,728.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. KAY A. KING, Mar. 3, 2009.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, JANICE McKINNEY, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN FEB. 16 AND FEB. 22, 2009

Janice McKinney ...... 2/16 2/18 Mexico ...... 699.00 (3) ...... 699.00 2/18 2/20 Nicaragua ...... 384.00 (3) ...... 384.00 2/20 2/22 Jamaica ...... (3) ...... 650.00 Committee total ...... 1,733.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. JANICE McKINNEY, Mar. 5, 2009.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, THOMAS W. ROSS, JR., HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN FEB. 16 AND FEB. 21, 2009

Thomas W. Ross, Jr...... 2/16 2/21 Peru ...... 1,214.00 ...... 2,498.00 ...... 3,712.00 Committee total ...... 3,712.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. THOMAS W. ROSS, Jr., Mar. 2, 2009.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, DELEGATION TO KUWAIT, IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN, AND BELGIUM, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN FEB. 4 AND FEB. 9, 2009

Hon. John A. Boehner ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. Eric Cantor ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. Peter Hoekstra ...... 2 /05 2 /07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. John McHugh ...... 2 /05 2 /07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. Tom Latham ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. Jo Bonner ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Dr. Brian Monahan ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Michael Sommers ...... 2 /05 2 /07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Kevin Smith ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Steve Stombres ...... 2/05 2/07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Rob Collins ...... 2 /05 2 /07 Kuwait ...... 950.00 (3) ...... 950.00 Hon. John A. Boehner ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. Eric Cantor ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. Peter Hoekstra ...... 2 /06 2 /06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. John McHugh ...... 2 /06 2 /06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. Tom Latham ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. Jo Bonner ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Dr. Brian Monahan ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Michael Sommers ...... 2 /06 2 /06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Kevin Smith ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Steve Stombres ...... 2/06 2/06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Rob Collins ...... 2 /06 2 /06 Iraq ...... (3) ...... Hon. John A. Boehner ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. Eric Cantor ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. Peter Hoekstra ...... 2 /07 2 /08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. John McHugh ...... 2 /07 2 /08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. Tom Latham ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. Jo Bonner ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Dr. Brian Monahan ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Michael Sommers ...... 2 /07 2 /08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Kevin Smith ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Steve Stombres ...... 2/07 2/08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Rob Collins ...... 2 /07 2 /08 Afghanistan ...... 75.00 (3) ...... 75.00 Hon. John A. Boehner ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Hon. Eric Cantor ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00

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Hon. Peter Hoekstra ...... 2 /08 2 /09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Hon. John McHugh ...... 2 /08 2 /09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Hon. Tom Latham ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Hon. Jo Bonner ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Dr. Brian Monahan ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Michael Sommers ...... 2 /08 2 /09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Kevin Smith ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Steve Stombres ...... 2/08 2/09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Rob Collins ...... 2 /08 2 /09 Belgium ...... 394.00 (3) ...... 394.00 Committee total ...... 15,609.00 ...... 15,609.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. 3 Military air transportation. HON. JOHN A. BOEHNER, Chairman.

REPORT OF EXPENDITURES FOR OFFICIAL FOREIGN TRAVEL, COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, EXPENDED BETWEEN OCT. 1 AND DEC. 31, 2008

Hon. Anthony Weiner ...... 12/20 12 /21 Kuwait ...... 167.00 ...... 167.00 12/23 12/24 Germany ...... 321.00 ...... 321.00 Committee total ...... 488.00 ...... 488.00 1 Per diem constitutes lodging and meals. 2 If foreign currency is used, enter U.S. dollar equivalent; if U.S. currency is used, enter amount expended. HON. JOHN CONYERS, Jr., Chairman, Mar. 13, 2009.

EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, 866. A letter from the Acting Director, ments, Television Broadcast Stations. (Indi- ETC. Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, anapolis, Indiana) [MB Docket No.: 08-122 transmitting the Corporation’s final rule — RM-11440] received March 3, 2009, pursuant to Under clause 8 of rule XII, executive Benefits Payable in Terminated Single-Em- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on communications were taken from the ployer plans; Interest Assumptions for Val- Energy and Commerce. Speaker’s table and referred as follows: uing and Paying Benefits — received March 872. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media 861. A letter from the Director, Regulatory 9, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- Review Group, Department of Agriculture, the Committee on Education and Labor. sion, transmitting the Commission’s final transmitting the Department’s ‘‘Major’’ 867. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, rule — In the Matter of Implementation of final rule — Direct and Counter-Cyclical Acting Legislative Affairs, Department of the DTV Delay Act [MB Docket No.: 09-17] Program and Average Crop Revenue Election State, transmitting the Department’s Alter- received March 3, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Program (RIN: 0560-AH84) received March 9, native Fuel Vehicle program report for FY 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the 2008, pursuant to Public Law 109-58; to the Commerce. Committee on Agriculture. Committee on Energy and Commerce. 862. A letter from the Lieutenant General, 868. A letter from the Director, Regulatory 873. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- US Army Director, Army National Guard, Management Division, Environmental Pro- ment of the Treasury, transmitting a six- Department of Defense, transmitting the De- tection Agency, transmitting the Agency’s month periodic report on the national emer- partment’s Annual Financial Report for Fis- final rule — Approval and Promulgation of gency with respect to Iran that was declared cal Year 2008; to the Committee on Armed Implementation Plans; State of California; in Executive Order 12957 of March 15, 1995, Services. 2003 State Strategy and 2003 South Coast pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c), section 204(c); 863. A letter from the Assistant Secretary Plan for One-Hour Ozone and Nitrogen Diox- to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. of the Navy for Research, Development and ide [EPA-R09-OAR-2008-0677; FRL-8770-1] re- 874. A letter from the Assistant Legal Ad- Acquisition, Department of Defense, trans- ceived March 3, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. viser for Treaty Affairs, Department of mitting the Department’s annual report list- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and State, transmitting Copies of international ing all repairs and maintenance performed Commerce. agreements, other than treaties, entered into on any covered Navy vessel in any shipyard 869. A letter from the Director, Regulatory by the United States, pursuant to 1 U.S.C. outside the United States or Guam during Management Division, Environmental Pro- 112b; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. the preceding fiscal year, pursuant to Sec- tection Agency, transmitting the Agency’s 875. A letter from the Acting Assistant tion 1012 of the National Defense Authoriza- final rule — New Source Performance Stand- Secretary Legislative Affairs, Department of tion Act for Fiscal Year 2009; to the Com- ards; Supplemental Delegation of Authority State, transmitting correspondence from mittee on Armed Services. to the State of Wyoming [R08-WY-2008-0001; John O’Donoghue, T.D., Ceann Comhairle of 864. A letter from the Director, Office of FRL 8770-2] received March 3, 2009, pursuant the Lower House of the Lower House of Par- Legal Affairs, Federal Deposit Insurance to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on liament of Ireland; to the Committee on For- Corporation, transmitting the Corporation’s Energy and Commerce. eign Affairs. final rule — Processing of Deposit Accounts 870. A letter from the Director, Regulatory in the Event of an Insured Depository Insti- Management Division, Evironmental Protec- 876. A letter from the Acting Assistant tution Failure (RIN: 3064-AD26) received tion Agency, transmitting the Agency’s final Secretary Legislative Affairs, Department of March 9, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. rule — Approval and Promulgation of Imple- State, transmitting the Department’s Report 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Financial mentation Plans; Hawaii; Correction [EPA- on the U.S.-Vietnam Human Rights Dialogue Services. R09-OAR-2008-0884; FRL-8771-1] received Meeting, pursuant to Public Law 107-228, sec- 865. A letter from the General Counsel, Na- March 9, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. tion 702; to the Committee on Foreign Af- tional Credit Union Administration, trans- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Energy and fairs. mitting the System’s ‘‘Major’’ final rule — Commerce. 877. A letter from the Chief Operating Offi- Unfair or Deceptive Acts or Practices [Regu- 871. A letter from the Chief of Staff, Media cer, Armed Forces Retirement Home, trans- lation AA; Docket No.: R-1314] received Bureau, Federal Communications Commis- mitting the Home’s Annual Performance and March 9, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. sion, transmitting the Commission’s final Accountability Reports for 2007 and 2008; to 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Financial rule — In the Matter of Amendment of Sec- the Committee on Oversight and Govern- Services. tion 73.622(i), Final DTV Table of Allot- ment Reform.

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878. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- nical Correction [Docket No.: FR-5081-C-03] By Mr. MCHUGH (for himself and Mr. ment of Energy, transmitting the Depart- (RIN: 2501-AD23) received March 11, 2009, pur- SCHRADER): ment’s FY 2008 Competitive Sourcing Activ- suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- H.R. 1509. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- ity Report, pursuant to Public Law 108-199, mittee on the Judiciary. enue Code of 1986 to provide a standard home section 647(b) of Division F; to the Com- 887. A letter from the Secretary, Securities office deduction; to the Committee on Ways mittee on Oversight and Government Re- and Exchange Commission, transmitting the and Means. form. Commission’s final rule — Adjustments to By Mr. REHBERG: 879. A letter from the Assistant Adminis- Civil Monetary Penalty Amounts [Release H.R. 1510. A bill to amend the lead prohibi- trator for Human Capital Mgt, National Aer- Nos.: 33-9009; 34-59449; IA-2845; IC-28635] re- tion provisions of the Consumer Product onautics and Space Administration, trans- ceived March 3, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Safety Improvement Act of 2008 to provide mitting a report pursuant to the Federal Va- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on the Judici- an exemption for certain all-terrain vehicles, cancies Reform Act of 1998; to the Com- ary. and for other purposes; to the Committee on mittee on Oversight and Government Re- 888. A letter from the Chairman, Depart- Energy and Commerce. form. ment of Transportation, transmitting the By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey (for him- 880. A letter from the Director, Office of Department’s final rule — SOLID WASTE self, Mr. OBERSTAR, Mr. WAXMAN, Mr. Management and Budget, transmitting the RAIL TRANSFER FACILITIES [STB Ex SCHIFF, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. STARK, Office’s sixth annual report on implementa- Parte No.: 684] received March 3, 2009, pursu- Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. FILNER, Ms. LEE tion by Federal agencies of the Federal In- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee of California, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. KIRK, formation Security Management Act on Transportation and Infrastructure. Mr. JACKSON of Illinois, Mr. MORAN of (FISMA), pursuant to Title III of Public Law 889. A letter from the Chief, Publications Virginia, Mrs. DAVIS of California, 107-347; to the Committee on Oversight and and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue Mr. ELLISON, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Government Reform. Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, 881. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Ad- — Revenue Procedure: Safe Harbors for Sec- Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. WALZ, and Mr. ministrator For Regulatory Programs, tions 143 and 25 (Rev. Proc. 2009-18) received BILBRAY): NMFS, National Oceanic and Atmospheric March 3, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. H.R. 1511. A bill to amend the Torture Vic- Administration, transmitting the Adminis- 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Ways and tims Relief Act of 1998 to authorize appro- tration’s final rule — Marine Recreational Means. priations to provide assistance for domestic Fisheries of the United States; National 890. A letter from the Chief, Publications and foreign programs and centers for the Saltwater Angler Registry Program [Docket and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue treatment of victims of torture, and for No: 071001548-81392-02] (RIN: 0648-AW10) re- Service, transmitting the Service’s final rule other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign ceived March 3, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. — Tier 1 Issue Foreign Tax Credit Generator Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Natural Directive — Revision 1 [LSMB Control No.: Energy and Commerce, for a period to be Resources. LSMB-04-0109-002] received March 3, 2009, subsequently determined by the Speaker, in 882. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Ad- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- each case for consideration of such provi- ministrator for Regulatory Programs, mittee on Ways and Means. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the NMFS, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 891. A letter from the Deputy Secretary, committee concerned. Administration, transmitting the Adminis- Department of Energy, transmitting the De- By Mr. RANGEL (for himself, Mr. partment’s report entitled, ‘‘Hydrogen and tration’s final rule — Taking of Marine OBERSTAR, Mr. CAMP, Mr. MICA, Mr. Fuel Cell Activities, Progress, and Plans,’’ Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing COSTELLO, and Mr. PETRI): Operations; Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduc- pursuant to Public Law 109-58, section 811(a); H.R. 1512. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- tion Plan [Docket No.: 080407531-8840-02] jointly to the Committees on Energy and enue Code of 1986 to extend the funding and (RIN: 0648-AW68) received March 3, 2009, pur- Commerce and Science and Technology. expenditure authority of the Airport and 892. A letter from the Acting Secretary of suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- Airway Trust Fund, to amend title 49, United Health and Human Services, Department of mittee on Natural Resources. States Code, to extend authorizations for the Homeland Security, transmitting notifica- 883. A letter from the Director, Office of airport improvement program, and for other tion that the Office of Management and Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, National Oce- purposes; to the Committee on Transpor- Budget has approved the Department’s rec- anic and Atmospheric Administration, trans- tation and Infrastructure, and in addition to ommendation that 1.7 million courses of mitting the Administration’s final rule — the Committee on Ways and Means, for a pe- smallpox antivirals be procured for the Stra- Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone riod to be subsequently determined by the tegic National Stockpile (SNS) using the Off Alaska; Pollock in Statistical Area 610 in Speaker, in each case for consideration of Special Reserve Fund, as authorized by the the Gulf of Alaska [Docket No.: 071106671- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Project BioShield Act of 2004; jointly to the 8010-02] (RIN: 0648-XM87) received March 3, tion of the committee concerned. Committees on Energy and Commerce and 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the By Mrs. KIRKPATRICK of Arizona (for Homeland Security. Committee on Natural Resources. herself, Mr. FILNER, Mr. HALL of New 884. A letter from the Acting Director, Of- f York, Mr. MITCHELL, Mr. DONNELLY fice of Sustainable Fisheries, NMFS, Na- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON of Indiana, Mr. RODRIGUEZ, and Mrs. tional Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS HALVORSON): tion, transmitting the Administration’s final H.R. 1513. A bill to increase, effective as of rule — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of December 1, 2009, the rates of disability com- Zone Off Alaska; Pacific Cod by Catcher Ves- committees were delivered to the Clerk pensation for veterans with service-con- sels Greater Than or Equal to 60 Feet (18.3 for printing and reference to the proper nected disabilities and the rates of depend- Meters) Length Overall Using Pot Gear in calendar, as follows: ency and indemnity compensation for sur- the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Manage- Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California: Com- vivors of certain service-connected disabled ment Area [Docket No.: 071106673-8011-02] mittee on Education and Labor. H.R. 1388. A veterans, and for other purposes; to the Com- (RIN: 0648-XN01) received March 9, 2009, pur- bill to reauthorize and reform the national mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); to the Com- service laws; with an amendment (Rept. 111– By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia (for himself, mittee on Natural Resources. 37). Referred to the Committee of the Whole Mr. CONYERS, Mr. GOHMERT, and Mr. 885. A letter from the Acting Assistant Ad- House on the State of the Union. SMITH of Texas): ministrator for Fisheries, NMFS, National Mr. TOWNS: Committee on Oversight and H.R. 1514. A bill to amend the Omnibus Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Government Reform. H.R. 1323. A bill to re- Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to transmitting the Administration’s final rule quire the Archivist of the United States to reauthorize the juvenile accountability — Fisheries of the Northeastern United promulgate regulations regarding the use of block grants program through fiscal year States; Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and information control designations, and for 2014; to the Committee on the Judiciary. Butterfish Fisheries; Specifications and other purposes (Rept. 111–38). Referred to the By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia: Management Measures [Docket No.: Committee of the Whole House on the State H.R. 1515. A bill to assist courts in the 0808041043-9036-02] (RIN: 0648-AX16) received of the Union. States and territories with improving the ad- March 9, 2009, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ministration of justice; to the Committee on 801(a)(1)(A); to the Committee on Natural f the Judiciary. Resources. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS By Ms. GINNY BROWN-WAITE of Flor- 886. A letter from the Counsel for Legisla- ida (for herself, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. tion and Regulations, Department of Hous- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public BUCHANAN, Mr. YOUNG of Florida, Mr. ing and Urban Development, transmitting bills and resolutions of the following GRAYSON, Mr. BOYD, Mr. MACK, Mr. the Department’s final rule — Civil Money titles were introduced and severally re- KLEIN of Florida, Ms. KOSMAS, Mr. Penalties: Certain Prohibited Conduct; Tech- ferred, as follows: MILLER of Florida, Mr. POSEY, Mr.

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PUTNAM, Mr. ROONEY, Ms. CASTOR of by the Speaker, in each case for consider- heads of their dental corps; to the Com- Florida, Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Flor- ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- mittee on Armed Services. ida, Mr. HASTINGS of Florida, Mr. risdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. SESTAK: CRENSHAW, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. By Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts (for H.R. 1534. A bill to direct the Secretary of LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida, Ms. himself and Ms. BALDWIN): Defense and the Chairman of the Joint WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. MARIO H.R. 1523. A bill to ban the use of bisphenol Chiefs of Staff to jointly carry out a study DIAZ-BALART of Florida, Mr. MEEK of A in food containers, and for other purposes; on the use of thorium-liquid fueled nuclear Florida, Mr. MICA, Mr. STEARNS, and to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. reactors for naval power needs, and for other Mr. WEXLER): By Ms. MATSUI: purposes; to the Committee on Armed Serv- H.R. 1516. A bill to designate the facility of H.R. 1524. A bill to allow flood insurance ices. the United States Postal Service located at coverage under the national flood insurance By Mr. SESTAK: 37926 Church Street in Dade City, Florida, as program for new structures designed to pro- H.R. 1535. A bill to direct the Secretary of the ‘‘Sergeant Marcus Mathes Post Office’’; tect public safety that are located in special Defense to conduct a study evaluating and to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- flood hazard zones; to the Committee on Fi- comparing the effectiveness of programs de- ment Reform. nancial Services. signed to diagnose, treat, and prevent post- By Mr. ENGEL (for himself and Mr. By Ms. MATSUI: traumatic stress disorder; to the Committee KING of New York): H.R. 1525. A bill to amend the National on Armed Services. H.R. 1517. A bill to allow certain U.S. Cus- Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to require the By Mr. SESTAK: toms and Border Protection employees who Administrator of the Federal Emergency H.R. 1536. A bill to authorize the Secretary serve under an overseas limited appointment Management Agency to consider reconstruc- of Defense to establish a fellowship program for at least 2 years, and whose service is tion and improvement of flood protection regarding neuroscience; to the Committee on rated fully successful or higher throughout systems when establishing flood insurance Armed Services. that time, to be converted to a permanent rates; to the Committee on Financial Serv- By Mr. SESTAK: appointment in the competitive service; to ices. H.R. 1537. A bill to direct the Secretary of the Committee on Homeland Security, and By Mr. PAYNE: Defense to conduct studies regarding alter- in addition to the Committee on Oversight H.R. 1526. A bill to aid and support pedi- native models for acquisition and funding of and Government Reform, for a period to be atric involvement in reading and education; technologies supporting network-centric op- subsequently determined by the Speaker, in to the Committee on Education and Labor. erations; to the Committee on Armed Serv- each case for consideration of such provi- By Mr. PETERS: ices. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the H.R. 1527. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. SESTAK: committee concerned. enue Code of 1986 to impose a higher rate of H.R. 1538. A bill to repeal the small busi- By Mr. ISRAEL (for himself, Mr. tax on bonuses paid by certain businesses ness competitiveness demonstration pro- BRALEY of Iowa, Mr. CHANDLER, Mrs. owned by the Federal Government; to the gram; to the Committee on Small Business. MCCARTHY of New York, and Mr. Committee on Ways and Means. By Mr. STUPAK: MASSA): By Mr. RANGEL: H.R. 1539. A bill to amend title 40, United H.R. 1518. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- H.R. 1528. A bill to allow travel between States Code, to add certain Armed Forces or- enue Code of 1986 to impose a higher rate of the United States and Cuba; to the Com- ganizations that are exempt from taxation tax on bonuses paid by businesses receiving mittee on Foreign Affairs. under section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Rev- TARP funds; to the Committee on Ways and By Mr. RANGEL: enue Code of 1986 to the list of organizations Means. H.R. 1529. A bill to permit expungement of eligible for donations of personal property By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas (for records of certain nonviolent criminal of- through State agencies; to the Committee on himself, Mr. CANTOR, Mr. HERGER, fenses; to the Committee on the Judiciary. Oversight and Government Reform. Mr. BRADY of Texas, and Mr. By Mr. RANGEL: By Mr. RANGEL: GRAVES): H.R. 1530. A bill to lift the trade embargo H. Con. Res. 73. Concurrent resolution rec- H.R. 1519. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- on Cuba, and for other purposes; to the Com- ognizing the 1807 Abolition of the Slave enue Code of 1986 to repeal the 1993 income mittee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to Trade Act, which banned the slave trade in tax increase on Social Security benefits; to the Committees on Ways and Means, Energy the British Empire, allowed for the search the Committee on Ways and Means. and Commerce, the Judiciary, Financial and seizure of ships suspected of trans- By Mr. KIND (for himself and Mr. Services, Oversight and Government Reform, porting enslaved people, and provided com- BISHOP of Utah): and Agriculture, for a period to be subse- pensation for the freedom of slaves; to the H.R. 1520. A bill to improve Federal land quently determined by the Speaker, in each Committee on Foreign Affairs. management, resource conservation, envi- case for consideration of such provisions as By Mr. WEXLER (for himself and Mr. ronmental protection, and use of Federal fall within the jurisdiction of the committee VAN HOLLEN): real property, by requiring the Secretary of concerned. H. Con. Res. 74. Concurrent resolution sup- the Interior to develop a multipurpose cadas- By Mr. RANGEL: porting the goals and ideals of a decade of tre of Federal real property and identifying H.R. 1531. A bill to facilitate the export of action for road safety with a global target to inaccurate, duplicate, and out-of-date Fed- United States agricultural products to Cuba reduce by 50 percent the predicted increase eral land inventories, and for other purposes; as authorized by the Trade Sanctions Reform in global road deaths between 2010 and 2020; to the Committee on Natural Resources. and Export Enhancement Act of 2000, to re- to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. By Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California move impediments to the export to Cuba of By Mr. HILL: (for herself, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, medical devices and medicines, to allow H. Res. 245. A resolution congratulating Mr. COHEN, Mr. SMITH of Texas, Mrs. travel to Cuba by United States legal resi- Miss Katie Stam for being crowned Miss BONO MACK, Mr. SENSENBRENNER, Ms. dents, to establish an agricultural export America 2009 and thanking the participants ESHOO, Mr. COBLE, Ms. JACKSON-LEE promotion program with respect to Cuba, in and supporters of the Miss America Com- of Texas, Mr. WEXLER, Mr. JORDAN of and for other purposes; to the Committee on petition for their contributions to young Ohio, Mr. GUTIERREZ, Mr. ISSA, Mr. Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Com- women’s lives and communities; to the Com- GONZALEZ, Mr. CARDOZA, Mr. FORBES, mittees on Ways and Means, the Judiciary, mittee on Oversight and Government Re- Mr. COSTA, Mr. WITTMAN, Mr. BACA, Agriculture, and Financial Services, for a pe- form. Mr. RADANOVICH, and Mr. BERRY): riod to be subsequently determined by the By Mr. RANGEL: H.R. 1521. A bill to restrict any State or Speaker, in each case for consideration of H. Res. 246. A resolution expressing support local jurisdiction from imposing a new dis- such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- for a National Week of Reflection and Toler- criminatory tax on cell phone services, pro- tion of the committee concerned. ance; to the Committee on Oversight and viders, or property; to the Committee on the By Mr. SESTAK: Government Reform. Judiciary. H.R. 1532. A bill to amend title 10, United By Mr. SKELTON (for himself and Mr. By Mrs. LOWEY: States Code, to eliminate the statute of limi- GINGREY of Georgia): H.R. 1522. A bill to provide that service of tations on the award of the Congressional H. Res. 247. A resolution expressing support the members of the organization known as Medal of Honor; to the Committee on Armed for designation of March 22, 2009, as ‘‘Na- the United States Cadet Nurse Corps during Services. tional Rehabilitation Counselors Apprecia- World War II constituted active military By Mr. SESTAK: tion Day’’; to the Committee on Education service for purposes of laws administered by H.R. 1533. A bill to amend title 10, United and Labor. the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; to the States Code, to specify the minimum rank By Ms. SUTTON: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, and in addi- requirement for officer serving as Chief of H. Res. 248. A resolution honoring Glenn tion to the Committee on Armed Services, the Navy Dental Corps to correspond to ‘‘Jeep’’ Davis for being one of the greatest for a period to be subsequently determined Army and Air Force requirements for the Olympic hurdlers, an active member of his

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community, and life-long teacher; to the H.R. 775: Ms. FALLIN and Mr. RANGEL. ana, Mr. MATHESON, Mr. CHANDLER, Mr. Committee on Oversight and Government H.R. 847: Mr. PIERLUISI and Ms. SLAUGHTER. BOREN, Mr. GRAYSON, Mr. CLEAVER, Ms. Reform. H.R. 927: Mr. DEFAZIO and Mr. BISHOP of MCCOLLUM, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. JACKSON of Illi- f Georgia. nois, Mr. GORDON of Tennessee, Mr. HILL, Mr. H.R. 932: Ms. SUTTON, Mr. WILSON of Ohio, GRIFFITH, Mr. SCOTT of Georgia, Mr. CLAY, PRIVATE BILLS AND Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. GERLACH, and Mr. KIL- Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California, Mrs. MALO- RESOLUTIONS DEE. NEY, Mr. WEINER, Mr. PERLMUTTER, Mr. CHIL- H.R. 980: Mr. HONDA. DERS, Mr. TANNER, and Mr. CALVERT. Under clause 3 of rule XII, H.R. 983: Mr. BILBRAY. H.R. 1324: Mr. MARKEY of Massachusetts, Mr. RANGEL introduced a bill (H.R. 1540) H.R. 997: Mr. CALVERT. Mr. KISSELL, Ms. TITUS, Mr. MURTHA, Mr. for the relief of Kadiatou Diallo, Sankerala H.R. 1016: Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. MASSA, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. PAS- Diallo, Ibrahima Diallo, Abdoul Diallo, HIGGINS, Ms. WATSON, and Mr. SPACE. TOR of Arizona, Mr. OBERSTAR, Mr. MCNER- Mamadou Bobo Diallo, and Mamadou Pathe H.R. 1017: Mr. BRALEY of Iowa. NEY, Mr. SCHIFF, and Mr. HASTINGS of Flor- Diallo; which was referred to the Committee H.R. 1020: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. HEIN- ida. on the Judiciary. RICH. H.R. 1325: Mr. RUSH. H.R. 1326: Ms. CLARKE, Mr. BLUMENAUER, f H.R. 1044: Mr. HINCHEY and Mrs. TAUSCHER. H.R. 1050: Mr. SOUDER, Mr. LATTA, and Mr. Mr. CAPUANO, and Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS FORTENBERRY. H.R. 1327: Mr. KIRK, Ms. MOORE of Wis- consin, Mr. DRIEHAUS, and Mr. KLEIN of Flor- Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 1054: Mr. KING of Iowa. H.R. 1055: Mr. KING of Iowa. ida. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 1069: Mr. TIAHRT. H.R. 1341: Mr. ELLISON. tions as follows: H.R. 1090: Mr. ALTMIRE. H.R. 1362: Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. GORDON of H.R. 21: Mr. BACA, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. H.R. 1098: Mr. BARROW, Mr. LUJAN, Mr. Tennessee, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Mr. WELCH, Mr. DEGETTE, Ms. HERSETH SANDLIN, Mr. MAR- SOUDER, and Mr. SABLAN. CONNOLLY of Virginia, Mr. OBERSTAR, Mr. KEY of Massachusetts, Mr. SARBANES, Ms. H.R. 1100: Mr. FILNER and Ms. WOOLSEY. LEWIS of Georgia, and Mr. WOLF. SHEA-PORTER, and Mr. WU. H.R. 1136: Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. KLINE H.R. 1377: Mr. MICHAUD. H.R. 22: Ms. LEE of California, Mr. TURNER, of Minnesota, Mr. CAMP, Ms. HIRONO, and H.R. 1388: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Ms. Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. BILBRAY, Mrs. Mrs. BACHMANN. SUTTON, Mr. DRIEHAUS, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. CAPPS, Mr. HODES, Mr. CAO, Mr. KIND, Mr. H.R. 1139: Mrs. CAPPS. WU, Mr. PERRIELLO, Ms. BORDALLO, Ms. MAT- KISSELL, Mr. MAFFEI, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- H.R. 1150: Mr. TIM MURPHY of Pennsyl- SUI, Mr. MCDERMOTT, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. HEIN- vania, Mr. ISSA, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. ACKER- vania. RICH, and Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. MAN, and Mr. CROWLEY. H.R. 1159: Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts and H.R. 1400: Mr. WAXMAN. H.R. 1410: Mr. WU. H.R. 23: Mr. SPACE, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 1429: Ms. NORTON, Mr. KUCINICH, Mr. MCCOTTER, Mr. MCINTYRE, Mr. THOMPSON of H.R. 1180: Mrs. BLACKBURN. PAYNE, Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas, Mr. GRI- California, Mr. BONNER, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- H.R. 1189: Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. JALVA, Mr. COHEN, Mr. MEEKS of New York, fornia, and Mr. CARNAHAN. H.R. 1190: Mr. BAIRD and Mr. RYAN of Ohio. and Mr. CUMMINGS. H.R. 24: Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. HERGER, Mr. H.R. 1203: Ms. SUTTON, Mr. WAMP, Mr. H.R. 1441: Mr. RAHALL. INGLIS, Mrs. DAVIS of California, Ms. LORET- CARNAHAN, Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin, Ms. H.R. 1457: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. TA SANCHEZ of California, Mr. SULLIVAN, Mr. KAPTUR, Mr. PAYNE, and Mr. DINGELL. H.R. 1458: Mrs. BLACKBURN, Mr. CONNOLLY SHULER, Mr. DEAL of Georgia, Mr. CULBER- H.R. 1204: Mr. CARNEY, Mr. BOUCHER, Mr. of Virginia, and Mr. GRAYSON. SON, and Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. TIAHRT, Mr. ELLSWORTH, Mr. BRALEY of Iowa, H.R. 1460: Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. H.R. 49: Mr. SCHOCK. and Mr. RAHALL. H.R. 1462: Mr. CONYERS. H.R. 52: Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas and Mr. H.R. 1207: Mr. WAMP and Mrs. BLACKBURN. H.R. 1476: Ms. SCHWARTZ. CARSON of Indiana. H.R. 1209: Mr. BARTLETT, Mr. ROSKAM, Mr. H.R. 1491: Mr. COHEN. H.R. 55: Mr. MCGOVERN. MACK, Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois, Mr. MARCH- H.R. 1499: Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. CLARKE, Mr. H.R. 82: Mr. HERGER and Mr. ALTMIRE. ANT, Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania, Mr. TERRY, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 101: Mr. BILBRAY. DUNCAN, Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky, Mr. BUR- GUTIERREZ, Mr. ANDREWS, Mr. WOLF, Ms. ZOE H.R. 104: Mr. WEXLER. TON of Indiana, Mr. PETRI, Mr. SHIMKUS, Mr. LOFGREN of California, Mrs. LOWEY, and Ms. H.R. 118: Mr. PAYNE. GRAVES, Mr. DENT, Mr. SHADEGG, Mrs. SUTTON. H.R. 154: Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. BIGGERT, Ms. FOXX, Mr. GINGREY of Georgia, H.J. Res. 26: Mr. HIGGINS. H.R. 155: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. JORDAN of Ohio, Mr. FORTENBERRY, Mr. H. Con. Res. 24: Mr. SERRANO. H.R. 176: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. CAO, Mr. COFFMAN of Colorado, Mr. LEE of H. Con. Res. 36: Mr. CROWLEY, Mr. PUTNAM, H.R. 179: Mr. STARK and Ms. FUDGE. New York, Mr. BOUSTANY, Mr. CAMPBELL, and Mr. ENGEL. H.R. 181: Mr. SPACE, Mr. CARNAHAN, and Mr. ALEXANDER, Mr. TIAHRT, Mr. KING of H. Con. Res. 55: Mr. CULBERSON, Mr. SIMP- Mr. CHANDLER. Iowa, Mr. CHAFFETZ, Mr. SCALISE, Mr. REH- SON, Mr. HOLT, Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. H.R. 205: Mr. TURNER and Mr. LATHAM. BERG, Mr. CONAWAY, Mr. SHUSTER, Mr. DAVIS SHIMKUS, Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia, Mr. CAR- H.R. 211: Mr. SERRANO, Mr. WOLF, Mr. of Kentucky, Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN, Mrs. BONO SON of Indiana, and Mrs. MALONEY. CAMP, Mr. CARNAHAN, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- MACK, Mr. DANIEL E. LUNGREN of California, H. Con. Res. 59: Mr. MCCOTTER. vania, and Ms. LEE of California. Mr. BROUN of Georgia, Mr. PITTS, and Mr. H. Con. Res. 60: Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. H.R. 265: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. JONES. H. Res. 109: Mr. LARSEN of Washington and H.R. 270: Ms. GIFFORDS, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. H.R. 1211: Mr. BARROW. Mr. CARSON of Indiana. CARNAHAN, and Ms. SUTTON. H.R. 1214: Mr. ACKERMAN and Mr. THOMP- H. Res. 156: Mr. BILIRAKIS, and Mr. BURTON H.R. 272: Mr. CLAY. SON of Mississippi. of Indiana. H.R. 275: Mr. LATHAM. H.R. 1240: Mr. CAMP, Mr. COURTNEY, Mr. H. Res. 175: Mr. KLEIN of Florida, Mr. H.R. 293: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. CARNAHAN, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. HONDA, and SABLAN, Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia, Mr. H.R. 294: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. WITTMAN. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. HIGGINS, Mr. SENSEN- H.R. 296: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. H.R. 1245: Mr. GARY G. MILLER of Cali- BRENNER, and Mr. PITTS. H.R. 297: Mr. BROWN of South Carolina. fornia and Mr. BURTON of Indiana. H. Res. 178: Mr. SPACE and Mr. WAXMAN. H.R. 305: Mr. CONYERS and Mr. TONKO. H.R. 1256: Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. H. Res. 191: Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. H.R. 327: Mr. BOYD. MOORE of Kansas, Mr. WALZ, Mr. ANDREWS, ISRAEL, Mr. HALL of New York, Mr. GALLE- H.R. 333: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. FATTAH, Mr. GLY, Mr. HONDA, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, and Mr. GEORGE MILLER of California. GERLACH, Mr. ALTMIRE, Mr. COSTELLO, Mr. Mrs. BIGGERT, Mr. CASTLE, and Mr. FILNER. H.R. 336: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. PAYNE, Mr. KAGEN, Mr. MURTHA, Mr. BOS- H. Res. 200: Mr. CAO. H.R. 389: Mr. SERRANO and Mr. CARSON of WELL, Mr. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. H. Res. 207: Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Indiana. FALEOMAVAEGA, Mr. HODES, Ms. WOOLSEY, H. Res. 209: Ms. KOSMAS. H.R. 422: Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, and Mr. LEVIN. H. Res. 211: Mr. WU, Mr. COHEN, Mr. PETER- H.R. 653: Mr. HINCHEY. H.R. 1265: Mr. GORDON of Tennessee, Mr. SON, Ms. SPEIER, Ms. EDWARDS of Maryland, H.R. 731: Mr. POE of Texas and Mr. TONKO, and Ms. EDWARDS of Maryland. Mr. GONZALEZ, Mr. SABLAN, Mrs. CAPPS, Mr. BILBRAY. H.R. 1280: Mr. CAMP. CONNOLLY of Virginia, Mr. DELAHUNT, Mr. H.R. 734: Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. JACKSON of Illi- H.R. 1295: Ms. GRANGER. SESTAK, Mr. MEEKS of New York, Mr. POLIS nois, Mr. TIERNEY, Mr. ROSKAM, Ms. LINDA T. H.R. 1319: Mr. PALLONE, Mr. GONZALEZ, of Colorado, and Mr. LANGEVIN. SA´ NCHEZ of California, Mr. MOLLOHAN, Mr. Mrs. CHRISTENSEN, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, H. Res. 232: Mr. LUETKEMEYER, Mr. NUNES, GUTIERREZ, and Mrs. EMERSON. Mr. SPACE, Mr. STUPAK, Ms. SUTTON, Mr. Mrs. EMERSON, Mr. PRICE of Georgia, and Mr. H.R. 744: Mr. REHBERG. SARBANES, Mr. KAGEN, Mr. DONNELLY of Indi- LAMBORN.

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IN HONOR OF FATHER JOHN J. TRIBUTE TO MS. LUCILLE HART boys moved into their new dorm in 1914. In CREGAN 1925, a girls-only dorm was built. In the early HON. DEBORAH L. HALVORSON 1970s, widows moved to the completed retire- OF ILLINOIS ment home in Greenville, Texas. HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Pythian Home School was designated an independent school district on August 1, OF OHIO Monday, March 16, 2009 1910 and continued until 1972. In 1937, the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mrs. HALVORSON. Madam Speaker, today last high school graduating class walked I rise to recognize the one-hundredth birthday across the Pythian auditorium stage. It had Monday, March 16, 2009 of Ms. Lucille Hart of Le Roy, Illinois. Ms. Hart been decided to send grades 6–12 to Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise joins the rank of centenarians after a fulfilling Weatherford Independent School District. today in honor of Chaplain Father John J. career in education and with the postal serv- Grades 1–5 continued to have classes at the Cregan, as he is being honored by the Retired ice. For fifteen years, she taught in Delavan, Pythian Home until 1972. Irish Police Society with the ‘‘2009 James P Illinois. She then became the school treasurer, As part of its effort to be self-sufficient, the Sweeney—Man of the Year Award.’’ Father a position she held for thirty more years. After Home had a large dairy operation for many Cregan’s service to police officers and fire- brief positions held at Caterpillar and the local years. Animals were raised to provide meat. The Home also had its own garden and or- fighters who bravely serve our community con- post office, she retired and became an avid chard. The staff and children kept busy main- tinues to be an invaluable source of support, gardener. She continues to tend to her flowers taining all of the operations. A change in gov- kindness and guidance for the women and and plants indoors during Illinois’ harsh win- ernment regulations in 1972 limited these op- men who bravely serve in the line of duty. ters. Today, she is joined by her closest friends and family to celebrate. erations, so the dairy closed in 1976. At a very young age, Father Cregan and his In the last one hundred years, Ms. Hart has There were many changes through the four sisters, Sister Theresine, Rita, Florence seen women granted the right to vote. She years. The Texas Pythian Home is now the and the late Margaret were taught the impor- witnessed the United States in World War II. last one in existence. The Home, located on tance of family, faith, heritage and service. Fa- She watched a man walk on the moon. She 164 acres, can house up to 62 children. The ther Cregan’s grandfather, born in Ireland, was can recall the civil rights movement and Dr. number of children in residence changes as a Cleveland police sergeant. His father, Jo- Martin Luther King’s speeches. She was born the economy and family circumstances seph Cregan, served for many years as a during the presidency of Theodore Roosevelt change. Cleveland Police Lieutenant, and two of his and has seen the White House change hands The Pythian principles of friendship, charity, nephews currently serve as Cleveland police eighteen times. Ms. Hart knows what life was and benevolence continue to be the driving officers. Father Cregan’s mother, Florence like before Blackberries, cell phones, the inter- force behind the organization. The Home is Cregan, was a critical influence in shaping his net, computers, color television, microwaves, here because it reaches out to those in need. wonderful sense of humor, his faith and his traffic lights, and bubble gum. In one hundred Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize sense of compassion for others. years, American life has changed drastically the Texas Pythian Home on the 100th anni- Father Cregan has served in parishes right before Ms. Hart’s eyes. versary of its founding and to offer my sincere throughout our community, including Blessed Ms. Lucille Hart is an inspiration to us all. It appreciation for the many contributions that its Sacrament, St. Joseph’s Church, St. Thomas is my honor to congratulate Ms. Hart’s long life residents have made and continue to make to More and Our Lady of Angels, where he was of achievement. May her health remain good the city of Weatherford and the state of Texas. appointed Pastor in 1987 and where he con- and may she continue to inspire. f tinues to serve today. Moreover, Father f REMEMBERING THE SLAUGHTER Cregan continues to serve as the Chaplain for HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVER- IN IRAQI KURDISTAN the Cleveland Police and Fire, Greater Cleve- SARY OF THE TEXAS PYTHIAN land Police and Fire, Holy Name Society, HOME Cleveland Office of the FBI, the Greater HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN Cleveland Police Emerald Society and the An- OF CALIFORNIA chor Club—roles he has held for more than HON. KAY GRANGER IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES forty years. He has also served as the Chap- OF TEXAS Monday, March 16, 2009 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lain for the Retired Irish Police Society since Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, Twenty one 1988. Monday, March 16, 2009 years ago, on March 16, 1988, the Saddam Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join Ms. GRANGER. Madam Speaker, I rise Hussein regime committed one of modern his- me in honoring Chaplain Father John J. today to recognize the 100th anniversary of tory’s most horrific crimes. The indiscriminate Cregan, as he is named the 2009 John P. the beginning of the Texas Pythian Home. The use of chemical weapons to destroy the town Sweeney ‘‘Man of the Year’’ by the Retired Home, called the ‘‘Castle on the Hill,’’ is lo- of Halabja in Iraqi Kurdistan led to the brutal Irish Police Society. Father Cregan’s warmth, cated in my district in the city of Weatherford, slaughter of thousands of innocent men, concern, support and guidance continues to Texas. women, and children and permanently debili- impact the lives of police officers and fire- The Texas Pythian Home began on March tated many more. More than two decades fighters throughout our community. As he has 1, 1909, as a home for widows and orphans after the massacre, the people of Halabja still for forty years, Father Cregan has been there of Knights of Pythias members. The Pythians, suffer from the effects of that barbaric attack. with our safety forces to celebrate the a fraternal order, made the decision to build Long-term effects include cancers, birth de- happiest of times, and most significantly, he the home in Weatherford following a donation fects, neurological problems, miscarriages, in- has stood with them in the most trying of of three hundred acres of land. fertility, and congenital malformations in chil- times, offering strength, hope and faith to offi- The main building housed orphaned children dren—all of which are disproportionately prev- cers and their loved ones. Father Cregan con- on the second floor. The basement was di- alent in the Halabja area—as well as irrep- tinues to lift the lives of countless individuals vided into apartments for widows with children. arable damage to the environment. These se- and families throughout Greater Cleveland and There were soon so many boys that it became rious medical and environmental problems today, we stand in gratitude and honor. necessary to build a boys-only dorm. The continue to hinder the well-being and overall

● 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.

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Rather, it was but one Ritch and a dozen eye specialists from the Project Name: Mobile Harbor Turning Basin. event in a deliberate, large-scale campaign New York Eye and Ear Infirmary (NYEE) were Requesting Member: Congressman ROBERT called the Anfal to exterminate the predomi- at the United Nations (UN) headquarters build- ADERHOLT. nantly Kurdish inhabitants of Iraqi Kurdistan. ing screening UN officials such as the Sec- Bill Number: H.R. 1105. The 1988 Anfal campaign resulted in the retary General, as well as ambassadors and Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Con- deaths of as many as 180,000 people. Iraqi deputy ambassadors from over 192 countries struction General Account. forces used chemical and biological weapons for glaucoma. Hopefully, publicity from this ef- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Alabama against over 250 population centers from April fort will help to prompt people around the State Port Authority. Address of Requesting Entity: 250 North 1987 to August 1988. Studies indicate that world to get screened for glaucoma.– Early diagnosis and proper treatment of Water Street, Suite 300, Mobile, AL 36602. more than half of current inhabitants of Description of Request: Provide $4.785 mil- Halabja were exposed to toxic chemical glaucoma can help people keep the precious gift of sight. Glaucoma has no symptoms and lion to construct the Mobile Harbor Turning agents at the time of the attack. is characterized by painless, progressive loss Basin project as authorized by the Water Re- On December 30, 2006, Saddam Hussein of vision, so that detection depends upon peri- sources Development Act of 1986 (PL99–662 was hanged for the murder of 148 Shiite Arab odic eye examinations that include evaluation Ninety–ninth Congress, Second Session) citizens of Dujail, which is located in south- of the optic nerve and measurement of eye under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers— central Iraq. That case was taken up before pressure. If undetected and untreated, glau- Construction General Account. Initial project the Anfal case, and it resulted in a death sen- coma will gradually claim all peripheral vision request anticipated expenditures of .04 per- tence. Because Iraqi law requires that a death and ultimately cause total blindness. While cent will be used for land; .11 percent will be sentence be carried our nearly immediately, treatment can halt the progress of the disease, used for navigation aids; .11 percent for re- Saddam’s other crimes, including the Anfal nothing can reverse damage that has been moval of existing concrete debris; 3.97 percent genocide, never came to trial. The swiftness of done, making early detection critical. for mobilization, preparation and demobiliza- Saddam’s execution was an injustice to those People at high risk for glaucoma should tion of a 26 CY Bucket Dredge; 4.20 percent that were brutally killed, maimed, or otherwise have their eyes examined for the disease at for mobilization, preparation and demobiliza- damaged in the Anfal; put simply, these vic- least every two years. High-risk individuals in- tion of a 30 inch Pipeline Dredge; 67 percent tims were denied their day in court. Many clude people with a family history of glau- for the removal of and placement in des- Kurds now fear that the world will never hear coma, African Americans over the age of 40, ignated dredge disposal areas approx. of the true extent of the Halabja atrocities— people who are very nearsighted or farsighted 2,699,232 cubic yards of dredged material; widely considered the heaviest use of chem- and all persons over the age of 60. 5.32 percent for planning, engineering and de- ical weapons against civilians in modern The NYEE has been a driving force in com- sign work; 2.42 percent for construction man- times. It is therefore imperative that the Anfal bating glaucoma in increasing the number of agement; 12.57 percent in project construction campaign, and the massacre of Halabja, be New Yorkers who are screened. Founded in contingency; and 3.83 percent in project esca- documented and remembered—and inter- 1820, NYEE is the oldest specialty hospital in lation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers con- the Western Hemisphere. The NYEE has a nationally recognized as a crime of genocide ducted an Environmental Assessment in ac- long tradition of community outreach, medical against the Kurdish people. But we should cordance with Engineer Regulation (ER) 200– education, and cutting-edge scientific re- also do more. On the tragic anniversary of 2–2, Procedures for Implementing the National search. It is home to many glaucoma special- Halabja 1988, the world must not only remem- Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the ists, including world-renowned glaucoma spe- ber the individuals who perished but also pro- Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Reg- cialist Dr. Robert Ritch. Dr. Ritch is a co- vide help to those that continue to suffer ulations for Implementing Procedural Provi- founder of the World Glaucoma Patient Asso- today. That would be an appropriate way for sions of the National Environmental Policy Act the world to bear witness to crimes that are ciation, an umbrella organization which sup- ports glaucoma associations and networks (40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Pts. among the ugliest the world has seen. 1500–1508) resulting in a FINDING OF NO f worldwide in their efforts to educate and support their members so that all people with SIGNIFICANT IMPACT (FONSI). Construction IN RECOGNITION OF ANNUAL glaucoma can understand and better manage of the authorized turning basin has been eval- WORLD GLAUCOMA DAY their disease. Dr. Ritch is also a member of uated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the World Glaucoma Day committee for the through the Corps General Reevaluation Re- HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY World Glaucoma Association. port (GRR) to alleviate harbor delays and im- I also ask my colleagues to recognize an- prove safety conditions, and reflects a benefit- OF NEW YORK to-cost ratio of 3.46 to 1. This project is per- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES other World Glaucoma Day sponsor, the Friends of the Congressional Glaucoma Cau- mitted. This request is consistent with the in- Monday, March 16, 2009 cus, a non-partisan organization whose pur- tended and authorized purpose of U.S. Army Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to pose is to educate all communities about the Corps of Engineers General Construction ac- urge my colleagues to recognize the impor- risks of glaucoma and other blindness-causing count. The Alabama State Port Authority, the tance of World Glaucoma Day, a global initia- eye diseases, and to provide diagnostic 10th largest port in the U.S., is the federally tive created by the World Glaucoma Associa- screening opportunities for high-risk population designated local sponsor for the Port of Mobile tion and the World Glaucoma Patient Associa- groups across the nations. Harbor and will provide the 25 percent cost tion to underscore the importance of getting Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished share for the Mobile Harbor Turning Basin screened for glaucoma, one of the leading colleagues rise to join me in recognizing World project. The Alabama State Port Authority’s 25 causes of blindness worldwide. The day will Glaucoma Day, and the urgent need to ensure percent cost share funding is secured. Turning be marked by awareness and educational that everyone is regularly screened for glau- basin will help serve a new container terminal, events organized by eye care institutions and coma. coal terminal and two raw material terminals. local patient support groups around the world. f f Glaucoma afflicts 3 million Americans and EARMARK DECLARATIONS HONORING GARY SHEPHERD some 75 million people worldwide. Glaucoma can strike anyone of any age. It affects all age HON. DALE E. KILDEE groups, including infants, children, and the el- HON. ROBERT B. ADERHOLT OF ALABAMA OF MICHIGAN derly. Congenital glaucoma and childhood IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES glaucoma are serious pediatric medical problems. With early diagnosis and treatment, 90 Monday, March 16, 2009 Monday, March 16, 2009 percent of the blindness from glaucoma could Mr. ADERHOLT. Madam Speaker, pursuant Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I would like have been avoided. World Glaucoma Day en- to the House Republican standards on ear- the House of Representatives to join me in

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:51 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0689 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR09\E16MR9.000 E16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7368 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 congratulating Gary Shepherd as he retires firefighting equipment through the years, such HONORING TuCARE after 33 years of service from General Motors as a horse-drawn button hand pumper in and the UAW. A retirement party will be held 1913, a Ford Model T/Hale fire engine in HON. GEORGE RADANOVICH in his honor on March 27th in Saginaw, Michi- 1921, and an 85-foot Hi-Ranger Snorkel ele- OF CALIFORNIA gan. vated platform truck in 1965, the first of its IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES A native of Saginaw County, Gary was hired kind in Bucks County. Monday, March 16, 2009 by General Motors in 1976. He worked at the A major renovation of the firehouse was Saginaw Steering Gear facility and worked his dedicated in May 2000 to the ‘‘past, present, Mr. RADANOVICH. Madam Speaker, I rise way from the production line to journeyman and future members of the Southampton Fire today to congratulate the Tuolumne County Al- status as a machine repairman. In 1985 he Company #1, in recognition of their unselfish liance for Resources and Environment, incor- was elected an Alternate Committeeman at service to the citizens of Upper Southampton porated upon the celebration of their 20th an- UAW Local 699. From this position he went on Township.’’ Now, on the Fire Company’s 100th niversary. The anniversary will be celebrated to serve as the District Committeeman on the on Saturday, March 14, 2009 at the ‘‘Annual Anniversary, we also extend our greatest Bargaining Committee, as Chairman of the Dinner and Auction’’ in Sonora, California. thanks and appreciation for their unwavering Bargaining Unit for Local 699, and Top Nego- Tuolumne County Alliance for Resources service. tiator of GM Sub-Council 5. Gary has also and Environment, Inc, or TuCARE, was first served on the CAP and Recreation Committee Madam Speaker, I ask that you join me in organized in 1989 when a group of individuals of the Local. Local 699 was featured in a 1999 recognizing the Southampton Fire Company came together to enlighten others in the wise Industry Week article entitled, ‘‘A Perfect #1 for their 100 years of service to our families use of natural resources in Tuolumne County. Union,’’ outlining the cooperative relationship in Bucks County. I am honored to serve as The organization has a history of commitment between the UAW and the auto manufacturer. their Congressman. to ensuring the long-term viability of all of the Gary continued his career with the UAW and natural resources through an ecosystem man- in 1998 he was appointed as a Region 1–D f agement approach toward the stewardship of International Representative and as the Skilled the public lands. They are firm believers that Trades Representative. He rounded out his HONORING STEPHANIE C. man must play an active role to protect the career by serving on UAW President Ron KOPELOUSOS forests from the destruction of wildfires. The Gettelfinger’s staff as Coordinator for Michigan multiple-use system that TuCARE promotes CAP in Region 1–D. allows for everyone to benefit from the forest. In addition to his work on behalf of UAW HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART Livestock owners use the pastures in the sum- workers, Gary has worked extensively in the OF FLORIDA mer, miners are allowed to extract minerals, community. He is the president of the Saginaw loggers can help thin the forest and everyone Area Fireworks, served as co-chair of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES can enjoy the recreation the forest has to Saginaw County Vision 20/20, and on the Monday, March 16, 2009 offer. Boards of Saginaw Future, Great Lakes Bay The organization ensures that the private Michigan Works, and Saginaw County United Mr. MARIO DIAZ-BALART of Florida. and the public sector work together to protect Way. He received the Chamber of Commerce Madam Speaker I rise today to honor a great property rights and to educate our future gen- President’s Award for his work. Gary also leader from the State of Florida, Stephanie C. erations. TuCARE advocates awareness in finds time to be a read volunteer and he is a Kopelousos. She was appointed Secretary of schools and communities by sponsoring lifelong member of Second Presbyterian the Florida Department of Transportation in ‘‘Tours for Kids’’ for more than twelve hundred Church. 2007 and since then has been working to en- students each year and a Natural Resources Gary is the past Chairman of the Saginaw sure our safety on Florida’s roads. Tour for invited guests from the State of Cali- County Democratic Party, a member of the fornia, Congress, local businesses, educators Michigan Democratic State Central Com- Secretary Kopelousos got her start in public and various agencies. TuCARE is connected mittee, was elected as a John Kerry delegate service right here in the halls of Congress in to schools in Tuolumne, Calaveras and to the 2004 Democratic National Convention 1993 as a Legislative Assistant to then Con- Stanislaus Counties and participates in the and was the 2008 Electoral College Delegate gresswoman Tillie K. Fowler of Florida’s 4th Tuolumne County Schools Forestry Institute for the Michigan 4th Congressional District, District and Chair of the Transportation Sub- for Teachers and presents to civic groups and casting his ballot for President Barack Obama. committee on Oversight, Investigations and organizations. They also sponsor various pub- He has 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren. Emergency Management. lic forums on issues related to natural re- Madam Speaker, please join me in con- In 2001 she joined the Florida Department sources and is represented at the annual Alli- gratulating Gary Shepherd as he retires from of Transportation as their primary federal liai- ance on American Fly-in for Freedom forum the UAW and General Motors. I wish him the son in Washington, D.C. focusing on transpor- held in Washington, DC. The organization pre- best as he starts this next phase of his life tation, emergency management and disaster pares press releases for all media outlets and and continued success in his future endeav- relief, and housing. She was instrumental in meets with local, state and federal elected offi- ors. negotiations during the reauthorization of the cials regarding issues of concern. f federal transportation bill. In 2005 she became Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Department’s Chief of Staff, and in early and congratulate Tuolumne County Alliance RECOGNIZING THE SOUTHAMPTON 2007 was appointed Interim Secretary. for Resources and Environment, Inc. on twen- FIRE COMPANY #1 Secretary Kopelousos carries with her more ty years of service. I invite my colleagues to than a decade of professional experience in join me in wishing TuCARE many years of HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY state and federal public policy, with a par- continued success. OF PENNSYLVANIA ticular emphasis in transportation. As Sec- f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES retary, she oversees more than 7,000 employ- HONORING GEORGE VUJNOVICH Monday, March 16, 2009 ees and an annual budget of $8 billion, always FOR HIS PARTICIPATION IN THE Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. keeping with the agency’s mission of providing HALYARD MISSION Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the a safe transportation system that fuels eco- Southampton Fire Company #1 for 100 years nomic growth and enhances quality of life for all Floridians. HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY of distinguished service. Since their inception OF NEW YORK in 1909, Southampton Fire Company #1 has As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES remained an all-volunteer fire department. ask you to join me in congratulating Secretary On December 10, 1909, the first meeting of Stephanie C. Kopelousos for her commitment Monday, March 16, 2009 the Southampton Fire Company was held, and to ensuring a safe and efficient transportation Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, I am four years later they were incorporated with 88 system in Florida and her invaluable contribu- joined by the co-chairs of the Congressional charter members. They utilized a variety of tions in the field of public service. Serbian Caucus, Representatives MELISSA

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BEAN of Illinois and DAN BURTON of Indiana, in German Luftwaffe bombed Belgrade in Oper- Jon E. Cutler—the only Jewish Chaplain cur- honoring a treasured constituent of mine and ation Punishment. Mr. Vujnovich was a first- rently serving in western Iraq. And as a former one of the unsung heroes of World War II, re- hand witness to the bombing, nearly losing his paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division who tired Major George Vujnovich. Major life when a falling bomb destroyed a nearby served in Baghdad 5 years ago and the first Vujnovich, a proud Serbian-American, was in- streetcar. After the bombing, Mr. and Mrs. Iraq war veteran to serve in this great body, it strumental in ‘‘Operation Halyard’’ and one of Vujnovich fled Yugoslavia, and he accepted a fills me with tremendous pride to be Rabbi the last surviving members of that successful job in Ghana as assistant airport manager Cutler’s Congressman. Rabbi Cutler has set wartime mission. while Mirjana moved to Washington, DC to an example for all of us—not just through his In the summer of 1944, Americans and Al- work at the Yugoslav Embassy. When the US spiritual leadership—but through selfless serv- lied airmen flew hundreds of sorties over Eu- entered the war, Mr. Vujnovich received a ice to our community and our nation. rope with the aim of disrupting the Ploesti oil commission as a second lieutenant and as- In Iraq, Rabbi Cutler serves as the 3rd Ma- complex, Adolf Hitler’s most important oil pipe- sumed command of an airbase in Nigeria. rine Aircraft Wing Chaplain, and assists the line. During their treacherous journey from While working at the airbase, he was recruited entire Al Asad Marine Air Base. Prior to his Italian bases to the Romanian oil complex, by the OSS for the clandestine services, and service in Iraq, Rabbi Cutler served as the pul- 1,500 of our brave men were forced to bail out was later sent to the OSS post in Bari, Italy. pit rabbi of Tiferes B’nai Israel in Warrington, over Yugoslavia. Scores of American crewmen From this post he saved the lives of his fellow Bucks County, Pennsylvania for the past 8 were trapped behind enemy lines and depend- servicemen and earned the title of hero. I am years. ent on Serbian villagers to hide them from the honored to have this opportunity to acknowl- As the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Chaplain, Germans. edge Major Vujnovich’s contribution to the Hal- Rabbi Cutler supervises 20 Christian chaplains Although Yugoslavia was enemy territory at yard Mission. and chaplain assistants, and has worked to the time, much of the country’s Serbian re- f create a center for Jewish troops who are gions remained under the control of Yugoslav serving in Anbar Province. The congregants of guerilla resistance leader General Draja IN CELEBRATION OF MARTIN J. Tiferes B’nai Israel even contributed to this ef- Mihailovich and his Chetnik forces. General AND ELEANOR R. KEARNEY fort, sending tiles and paste to be used for the Mihailovich remained loyal to the Allies, and chapel floor. under his orders the Serbian people shielded HON. RICHARD E. NEAL As the Rabbi for Tiferes B’nai Israel in War- these airmen and protected them from capture OF MASSACHUSETTS rington, Rabbi Cutler worked tirelessly to unite and imprisonment by German troops. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his congregants, both old and new. He strived General Mihailovich passed information Monday, March 16, 2009 to make new members feel welcome while re- about the downed American airmen to the specting the needs and wishes of long-stand- United States authorities. The Office of Stra- Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Madam Speak- ing members. Before he was deployed to Iraq, tegic Services (OSS) put together Operation er, I would like to acknowledge Martin J. and he also proudly received his Navy commander Halyard, a daring mission to save the men Eleanor R. Kearney for being named the Irish pins on the pulpit at Tiferes B’nai Israel. without drawing the attention of the Nazis. The Couple of the Year by the John Boyle O’Reilly Commander Cutler has been a chaplain in mission entailed flying and landing C–47 cargo Club in Springfield, Massachusetts. They were the U.S. Navy Reserve for 23 years. He was planes into enemy territory, picking up the awarded this deserved title on February 7, the only Jewish chaplain serving with the Ma- downed airmen, and flying back to allied terri- 2009 for their support and contributions to the rines in Desert Storm, and after 9/11, he was tory. Before the mission could go forward, club. The couple has been active with the club called to the Pentagon to counsel family mem- however, the Allied forces cut ties with Gen- for over fifty years. Both have helped with bers who lost loved ones during the tragic eral Mihailovich and no longer had specific in- fundraisers and dances. Eleanor is an avid events of that terrible day. formation about the location of the American baker for the club and Martin was a strong When not serving our troops in Iraq or his airmen. Major George Vujnovich, the OSS op- supporter of the new building fund. A recep- congregants in Warrington, Rabbi Cutler has eration chief stationed in Bari, Italy, discovered tion dinner was held in their honor on March served as an instructor at Gratz College for that Mihailovich was hiding the airmen near 1, 2009. Jewish education and a visiting professor at Martin was born in the Great Blaskett Is- his headquarters in the city of Pranjani. He in- Philadelphia University. He received his B.A. lands in Dingle, County Kerry, Ireland on De- formed U.S. officials of their location and Op- and M.A. in religious studies from Temple Uni- cember 31, 1926. Eleanor is a life-long Spring- eration Halyard progressed. versity, and holds a Doctor of Ministry in Pas- field resident who was born on December 17, As the mission advanced, Major Vujnovich’s toral Counseling from Hebrew Union College. 1932. Martin came to America in 1951 where experience and expertise were indispensable. Rabbi Cutler was ordained by the Reconstruc- he soon met Eleanor. In 1953, they were mar- Major Vujnovich was responsible for selecting tionist Rabbinical College in Wyncote, PA. ried in Saint Thomas Aquinas Church in members of the Halyard Mission, and orches- Rabbi Cutler has contributed enormously to Springfield. Martin became a member of the trating the initial parachute drop into the area. the citizens of Bucks County and given so John Boyle O’Reilly Club in 1953 and now The rescue plans hinged on his direction and much to so many servicemen and women both Martin and Eleanor are life members. the ability of local Serbs to build an airstrip serving abroad. He leads by example and is The John Boyle O’Reilly Club was founded without any modern tools and without German committed to service, spiritual leadership and in 1880. The club consists of dedicated Irish detection. education. Madam Speaker, I am proud to and Irish-Americans whose goal is to preserve Operation Halyard took place between Au- recognize Rabbi Cutler for his outstanding and promote their Irish heritage. The club’s gust and December 1944 and was a complete work, and am extremely honored to serve as motto is culture, family and tradition. Since success. Hundreds of men were rescued be- his Congressman. March 1970, the club has been located on 33 hind enemy lines and no lives were lost in the f Progress Avenue in Springfield, Massachu- mission. The Halyard Mission was a success setts. Today, the club is very active in their HONORING REVEREND DR. F.O. thanks to the brave men and women of the community, awarding the John Boyle O’Reilly HOCKENHULL OSS and the courageous Serbian locals who Scholarship every year to college-bound stu- risked their lives to safeguard American air- dents. HON. DALE E. KILDEE men. Thanks to a keen mind and tactical ex- OF MICHIGAN pertise, Major Vujnovich demonstrated the f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES courage and selflessness that mark him as an HONORING RABBI JON E. CUTLER American hero. Monday, March 16, 2009 Major George Vujnovich was born to Ser- HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today bian parents in 1915. In 1934 he received a to pay tribute to Reverend Dr. F.O. Hockenhull OF PENNSYLVANIA scholarship from the Serb National Federation as he celebrates 40 years as pastor of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and left his home in New York to attend col- First Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in my lege in Belgrade. While living in Belgrade, Mr. Monday, March 16, 2009 hometown of Flint, Michigan. A banquet in his Vujnovich met and married his wife, Mirjana. Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. honor was held last Friday in honor of this oc- Their life was disrupted in 1941, when the Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rabbi casion.

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Madam Speaker, I rise to He worked as a Chaplain in the Wayne recognize Elizabeth Benham, who is being HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY County Jail and as a contact representative for honored this month in New York City by the OF NEW YORK the W.J. Maxey Boys Training School. After International Federation of Business and Pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spending 6 years as the pastor of the Jehovah fessional Women (BPW International) for her Monday, March 16, 2009 Baptist Church in Detroit, Reverend Dr. work as its President. Founded in 1930, BPW Mr. CROWLEY. Madam Speaker, on March Hockenhull became the pastor at First Trinity is an international organization of women busi- 12, 2009, I was absent for one Rollcall Vote. Missionary Baptist Church. He has remained ness owners with links to more than 90 coun- If I had been here, I would have voted ‘‘yes’’ in this position for the past 40 years. tries on five continents. BPW is a wonderful on Rollcall Vote 124. way for businesswomen to network and sup- Reverend Dr. Hockenhull is the past-Presi- port one another. f dent of the Great Lakes Baptist District Lead- After more than two decades of dedicated PERSONAL EXPLANATION ership and Educational Congress to the Great work on behalf of BPW, Ms. Benham became Lakes Baptist District Association; the Asso- the organization’s President last year. She is HON. XAVIER BECERRA ciate Director General of the National Con- being honored at the annual Conference on OF CALIFORNIA gress of Christian Education-National Baptist the Status of Women that is being held this IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES month at the United Nations, located in New Convention USA, Incorporated; past-Vice- Monday, March 16, 2009 President of the Wolverine State Congress of York’s 14th Congressional District that I am Mr. BECERRA. Madam Speaker, on Friday, Christian Education; a member of the Board of privileged to represent. Elizabeth Benham is the twentieth president March 6, 2009, I missed rollcall vote 107 on Directors at the Montgomery Bible Institute of BPW International and the first American to approving the Journal. If present, I would have and Theological Center; a former member of serve at its helm in 28 years. She dem- voted ‘‘aye.’’ the National Baptist Convention USA, Incor- onstrated her commitment to BPW Inter- f porated Publishing Board; a former instructor national as the chair of its Fundraising HONORING FRANCIS M. GORSKI at the National Sunday School and Baptist Taskforce from 2004–2008. In 2005, she Training Union Congress-National Baptist served the organization as the Vice President, Convention USA; past Supervisor of the Ad- Membership Chair, Friends and Fellows Chair, HON. PATRICK J. MURPHY ministrative Leaders Division-National Baptist and as a member of the International Planning OF PENNSYLVANIA Congress of Christian Education, National Committee. In these roles she traveled exten- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Baptist Convention USA, Incorporated; past sively, meeting with members and chapters Monday, March 16, 2009 Instructor with the Great Lakes Baptist District around the world, and developing a broad and Mr. PATRICK J. MURPHY of Pennsylvania. of Christian Education; a member of the Board deep understanding of the needs of the orga- Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Francis of Directors of the National Baptist Conven- nization’s diverse membership. Since 1998, M. Gorski for his 50th year of active service to tion, USA Incorporated; a member of the Elizabeth Benham has also served as an al- the Lingohocken Fire Company. He and his Stewardship Commission of the National Bap- ternate delegate to the United Nations on be- family have been extremely dedicated to serv- half of BPW International. tist Convention, USA Incorporated; a Trustee ing Wrightstown Township and the community When she became BPW International Presi- of the Retirement Commission of the National as a whole. dent in 2008, Elizabeth Benham not only had Lingohocken firefighters are able to become Baptist Convention, USA Incorporated; and a extensive prior experience working with BPW ‘‘Life Members’’ after twenty-five years of serv- delegate to the World Christian Conference in International, but had also achieved notable ice and let others take over. That was an op- Australia. success as a businesswoman. Before going tion for Mr. Gorski twenty-five years ago, but In addition to his work, Reverend Dr. into business, she was a certified nurse mid- instead he has remained hard at work—as so Hockenhull is a world renowned lecturer, a wife in high risk obstetrics. Throughout her life, many have come to expect. member of the NAACP, and a member of Elizabeth has demonstrated her compassion Mr. Gorski is one of the most active mem- Concerned Pastors for Social Action. His wife and motivation in her volunteer work as the bers of the department, responding to 70–80% of over 50 years, Marian, is the National Di- Vice President of Toys of Hope Charity, a of their calls. He has responded to calls that Board Member of Women Builders Council in rector of the Young People’s Department. many individuals his age would no longer re- New York, and a Board Member of the Fire Is- spond to—including calls at 3 o’clock in the They have one son, Franco, and two grand- land Lighthouse Preservation Society. morning. He volunteers his time for daughters, Vanessa and Victoria. Elizabeth Benham has worked tirelessly in Lingohocken on top of the time he spends Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Rep- her professional life and leadership roles to running the family business with his two resentatives to rise with me and applaud the support the accomplishments of women younger brothers. life and work of Reverend Dr. F.O. throughout the world. In her role as President, He has served at almost every rank in the Hockenhull. He has spent his life in devotion she is working to form connections of im- company including chief, and is currently serv- to Our Lord, Jesus Christ, by fulfilling God’s proved communication among all members ing as deputy chief. His dedication and work Great Commission. His compassion, patience and affiliates for a better flow of information. ethic are examples for our community and and love for humanity are recognized through- She has dedicated her efforts to expanding country to follow. and improving training for future leaders of Those at the company—and in our entire out the Flint community. Through his example, BPW International and for greater efficiencies community—are extremely proud of the ac- he inspires passion, spirituality, and service in in managing the vast organization. She has complishments and outstanding level of serv- his congregation and he carries the message consistently demonstrated her commitment to ice Mr. Gorski provides to the people of of God’s love beyond the walls of the church the mission of the International Federation of Wrightstown Township and Bucks County, building. I have known Reverend Dr. Business and Professional Women in helping Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I am proud to Hockenhull for many years and have always women in the workforce achieve their busi- recognize Mr. Francis Gorski for his excep- been touched by his wisdom, his zeal and his ness and professional goals. tional services to his community and am ex- piety. I pray that he will continue to serve for Madam Speaker, I request that my col- tremely honored to serve as his Congress- many, many years to come. leagues join me in paying tribute to Elizabeth man.

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In 1975, she served as a Member of the community and country has greatly influenced Monday, March 16, 2009 Democratic National Committee. She also the lives of everyone he has known, including Mrs. MALONEY. Madam Speaker, I rise to served on Queens Community Board 3 for my own. He will forever be remembered along pay tribute to Queens Borough President thirteen years, as a parent activist in the public the streets, in the meeting halls and through- Helen Marshall, an outstanding public servant. schools for a decade and a half, was a found- out the parks of Cleveland’s west side neigh- First elected the Borough President of Queens er of the Queens Overall Economic Develop- borhood. in November 2001, Helen Marshall is the first ment Corporation, and was elected in 1974 as f African-American and just the second woman a Democratic District Leader. to assume the post of chief executive of Helen Marshall remains devoted to her be- PROCLAMATION: THE 50TH WINTER Queens County, which has a population of loved husband, Donald, and to her children PARK SIDEWALK ART FESTIVAL more than 2.2 million people. She has been a and grandchildren. She is universally regarded leader of uncommon grace, energy, and dedi- with affection by the people of Queens, a re- HON. SUZANNE M. KOSMAS cation to the people she serves. markable feat in the most diverse county in OF FLORIDA As the Queens Borough President, Helen our nation. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Marshall has been a champion for public li- Madam Speaker, I ask that my distinguished Monday, March 16, 2009 braries and schools, job training programs, colleagues join me recognizing the enormous quality health care, senior citizens, the envi- Ms. KOSMAS. Madam Speaker, contributions to our civic and political life made Whereas, since its founding in 1960, the ronment, and economic development, just as by Borough President Marshall, who has she has been throughout her remarkable ca- Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, which is an worked tirelessly and diligently throughout her all volunteer effort supported by the Winter reer. She has allocated tens of millions of dol- career on behalf of her constituents in Queens lars for parks, playgrounds and libraries, and Park Sidewalk Art Festival Committee, the City and all New Yorkers. of Winter Park and numerous volunteers, has in 2005 was bestowed the statewide Daniel f Casey Library Advocacy Award. She has grown to become one of the premier art fes- helped fund the expansions of cultural institu- IN HONOR OF JOHN P. GALLAGHER tivals in the county; and Whereas, every year hundreds of Winter tions, organized a Borough President’s ‘‘War Park citizens contribute thousands of hours to Room’’ to ensure the timely construction of HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH ensure that the 350,000 visitors to the Festival thirty new public schools with more than OF OHIO enjoy the best in fine art and that the 225 ex- 17,800 seats, and marshaled support for im- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hibiting artists enjoy the best in outdoor art portant infrastructure projects like the Queens Monday, March 16, 2009 venues; and Plaza Roadway Rebuilding Project and Long Whereas, exhibits by Orange County school Island City Links. Marshall also spearheaded Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise students have been part of the Festival since the historic effort to bring CUNY to the Rock- today in honor and of memory of my friend its inception, and the more recent Children’s away Peninsula, providing $6 million in capital and mentor, John P. Gallagher, upon the offi- Workshop Village has integrated local muse- funding to convert a former courthouse. cial naming of the West Park Post Office, ums and art centers to provide exciting art ex- A native New Yorker, Helen Marshall served John P. Gallagher Building, and in recognition periences for children of all ages; and for nearly two decades as a respected legis- of his lifetime service to our community and to Whereas, the Festival Emerging Artist Pro- lator in both the New York State Assembly our country. gram gives promising and talents artists who and the New York City Council. In 1982, she A lifelong resident of Cleveland, Mr. Galla- are determining their career paths the oppor- was elected to the first of five terms in the gher was the son of Irish immigrants, from tunity to exhibit in their first outdoor art fes- New York State Assembly, where she chaired whom he learned the values of a strong work ethic and the importance of faith, family and tival, all expenses paid; and the Rules Committee and served on the Le- Whereas, The Winter Park Sidewalk Art service to community. During World War II, he land Commission. Festival Foundation provides scholarships to When she won her seat on the City Council served in the Army, First Engineer Special Bri- local colleges and universities for promising in 1991, she became the first female and first gade and in six combat campaigns, including art students. missions in North Africa and the Normandy In- member of a minority elected to represent her Now, therefore, I, Suzanne M. Kosmas, by vasion. Following the war, Mr. Gallagher City Council district, she worked to improve virtue of the authority vested in me as Con- worked in construction before taking a job with and unite an extraordinarily diverse commu- gresswoman, 24th District, Florida, do hereby the City of Cleveland in 1954. He worked dili- nity. On the City Council, she served as Chair proclaim March 20, 21 and 22, 2009 ‘‘The gently for the City, until his retirement in 1987, of the Higher Education Committee and on the 50th Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival’’ and which followed 22 years in the role of Super- Committees on Housing and Buildings, Envi- encourage all residents to recognize and show intendent of Sidewalks. ronmental Protection, and Women’s Issues. their appreciation for the many memories and Throughout his adult life, Mr. Gallagher She also served as Co-Chair of the Council’s contributions the Festival has made to our dedicated his time and talent to issues and Black and Latino Caucus. As Chair of the City community over the years. Council’s Higher Education Committee, Mar- projects focused on the improvement of our In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my shall successfully fought against the privatiza- community. He was a staunch advocate of hand and seal to be affixed this 16th day of tion of the City University of New York, one of neighborhood safety, and also advocated for March, 2009. the largest public university systems in the the welfare and rights of senior citizens. For world. She secured funds to restore the City’s many years, he served as a Democratic Party f free dental clinics, led the fight to prevent the precinct committee chairman and volunteered RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF sale of Elmhurst and Queens Hospital Center countless hours in numerous local, state and DOLORIS COULTER COGAN and has fought for many years to protect national campaigns. He kept a close watch Flushing Bay from the impact of LaGuardia over his neighborhood park, and organized HON. MADELEINE Z. BORDALLO Airport. programs and projects for senior citizens at OF GUAM A proud graduate of the New York City pub- Cleveland’s Gunning Recreation Center. His IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lic school system, she earned a Bachelor’s intelligence, kindness and good sense of Degree in Education from Queens College of humor quickly endeared people to him. Mr. Monday, March 16, 2009 the City University of New York. For eight Gallagher’s keen understanding of the soul of Ms. BORDALLO. Madam Speaker, I rise years prior to her election to the Assembly, a neighborhood and his opinions on commu- today to recognize the work of Doloris Coulter

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Vicki and I wish her and The collapsing housing market is one of the is a personal recollection of Guam’s transition her family best wishes for continued success. root causes of the present economic crisis. from a Naval Administration to a civilian gov- f Until the housing sector is stabilized, there will ernment after World War II. Ms. Cogan at the simply be no recovery in America. H.R. 1106 time was editor of the Guam Echo under the HELPING FAMILIES SAVE THEIR is a major step in addressing the crisis in the Institute of Ethnic Affairs, and her writings HOMES ACT OF 2009 housing market chronicle the stories of Guam’s leaders, their I urge my colleagues to support this legisla- allies in Washington, D.C., and their efforts in HON. BETTY McCOLLUM tion. bringing a civilian government to Guam. OF MINNESOTA f From 1898 to 1950, Guam was adminis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING MIKE HAUSER tered under the Secretary of the Navy, and Monday, March 16, 2009 while legislation for Guam’s self-governance had been introduced before this Congress Ms. MCCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, I rise HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY none were reported out of committee. It was today in strong support of the Helping Families OF CALIFORNIA not until the signing of the Guam Organic Act Save Their Homes Act of 2009 (H.R. 1106) IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and to congratulate Chairman FRANK, Chair- of 1950 by President Harry S. Truman, that Monday, March 16, 2009 Guam was allowed to govern itself with a civil- man CONYERS, and Speaker PELOSI for their ian government. The Guam Organic Act trans- quick action to help American families. Ms. WOOLSEY. Madam Speaker, I rise ferred administration of Guam from the Sec- The last eight years of disinvestment in today to honor Mike Hauser of Santa Rosa, retary of the Navy to the Secretary of the Inte- American families have pushed the economy California, who passed away on March 3, rior and established executive, legislative, and into a deep recession. Unemployment is rising 2009, at the age of 62. Mike had led the judicial branches of government on Guam. and home values are falling while the costs of Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce for almost Since that time, Congress has passed legisla- health care and food continue to rise. Thou- nine years, including regular calls from his sick tion that changed the Governor of Guam from sands of my constituents have been laid off bed during the last months of his life. a Presidential appointment position to a locally and can no longer afford to meet the basic Mike took the reins of Chamber in 2000, elected position. Further, Congress passed needs of their families or pay their mortgages. and, under his leadership, the organization ex- legislation granting Guam a non-voting Dele- The dream of homeownership has become panded its programs, enhancing the business gate to the U.S. House of Representatives. a nightmare for too many. Many home buyers climate while benefiting the community. He re- As Guam’s representative to the U.S. Con- are falling behind on their payments because alized that the two goals complemented each gress, I commend Ms. Cogan for her work as of dropping home values and the financial cri- other and brought people together to focus on editor of the Guam Echo and for the pub- sis through no fault of their own. Many could them. Mike used his low-key style and friendly lishing of I Fought the Navy and Won: Guam’s make their mortgage payments until they lost manner as well as his keen understanding and Quest for Democracy. Through her writings we their jobs or their incomes dropped. Others broad experience to develop initiatives that are to reflect and appreciate the efforts under- were victims of predatory lending by unscrupu- drew various stakeholders into the process. taken to bring self-governance to Guam and lous mortgage brokers and are now struggling He was adept at developing relationships that we can have a deeper appreciation of the his- with unaffordable subprime loans. An esti- fostered his success. torical roots of the Organic Act of Guam. mated 14 million homeowners owe more than Mike’s efforts included a focus on educating f their home is worth, and many cannot refi- the Spanish-speaking community to be the nance into an affordable mortgage. As a re- current and future workforce, including a sum- RECOGNIZING DANNA CHATWELL sult, a record number of Americans are losing mer algebra academy for middle school stu- AS THE 2008–2009 HURLBURT AFA their homes to foreclosure every month. Fore- dents, securing airline service at the county CHAPTER MIDDLE SCHOOL closures hurt everyone—including our families, airport, advocating for the SMART train, and TEACHER OF THE YEAR neighborhoods, and communities—resulting in creating programs to develop entrepreneurial lost tax revenue for local governments, re- businesses and generate high-wage jobs. HON. JEFF MILLER duced property values for neighbors, and often Because of his skills and efforts, the Cham- OF FLORIDA abandoned properties require an increased ber recently learned that it had been awarded IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES police presence in our neighborhoods. a rare five-star rating by the National Chamber The Helping Families Save Their Homes Act of Commerce, becoming the only organization Monday, March 16, 2009 of 2009 is a comprehensive approach to break in California to achieve that honor. Also, Mike Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I the cycle of foreclosures and declining home was set to become Chair of the American rise today to recognize Ms. Danna Chatwell, values. This legislation offers fair and effective Chamber of Commerce Executives in August. recipient of the Hurlburt Air Force Association solutions to help families who are facing fore- Originally from Iowa, Mike graduated from Chapter 398 Middle School Teacher of the closure today and those at risk of foreclosure Iowa State University and then worked in a Year Award for the 2008–2009 school year. in the future. To accomplish this, H.R. 1106 number of Chambers of Commerce in Min- Her success as an educator is a testament to improves the Hope for Homeowners program nesota, North Dakota, and Nebraska. He set- the power of our country’s teachers, and I am by reducing fees that discourage lenders from tled for 13 years in Fort Collins, Colorado, proud to honor Ms. Chatwell on this distin- voluntarily refinancing mortgage loans. This where his reputation attracted national atten- guished occasion. bill would also provide bankruptcy judges with tion. When the Santa Rosa Chamber was Ms. Chatwell serves as a seventh grade the authority they need to modify loan terms ready for a new president, Mike was an ideal science teacher at Woodlawn Beach Middle for families who are already in the bankruptcy choice. School in Gulf Breeze, Florida. In 2007, she process—a provision that could reduce fore- He leaves a Chamber that is thriving, with earned the Holley-Navarre Intermediate closures by 20 percent at no cost to tax- increased membership and a variety of suc- Teacher of the Year, and this recent AFA payers. Bankruptcy courts currently have the cessful programs. award highlights her continued achievements. power to modify loans for corporations, com- Mike is survived by his wife Kelly, daughters By merging technology and modern trends mercial real estate and even vacation homes; Heidi and Dana, and granddaughter Avery as with proven teaching practices, Ms. Chatwell extending this option to save the primary resi- well as his mother Beryl and three siblings. gives every student the ability to be success- dences for families is necessary and equi- Madam Speaker, the Santa Rosa Chamber ful. Her energy and passion for teaching in- table. and the broader community will miss Mike fuse a desire for knowledge in her students Last week, President Obama announced the Hauser’s leadership and his passion for ad- that lives on long after they have graduated Comprehensive Homeowner Affordability and dressing significant local issues. We thank him from her classroom. Stability Plan, a bold strategy to help up to for the legacy he will leave in strong ongoing

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In each of her classes, students Connections Affinity Health Plan, New York OF MARYLAND participate in a Rube Goldberg project in City; Kelly Chapman, Director, Diversity Re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES which a particular machine must be built. Pre- cruiting, Microsoft Corp., Cleveland; Amina Monday, March 16, 2009 vious projects include a letter folding machine, Dickerson, Senior Director, Global Community a machine that changes light bulbs, and ro- Involvement Kraft Foods, Chicago; Joi Gordon Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay Esq. Chief Executive Officer Dress for Suc- tribute to Rev. Joseph C. Martin, a son of bots capable of picking up and carrying ob- jects. This learning style promotes an inte- cess Worldwide, New York City; Brenda P. Maryland who devoted his life to helping tens Grant, Infection Preventionist, Stamford Hos- of thousands of alcoholics overcome their ad- grated, hands-on approach which helps break down the advanced material and makes it pital, Stamford, Connecticut; Cecelia ‘‘Ci Ci’’ diction—an addiction he overcame himself. Holloway, Managing Director, Diversity and In- Father Martin drank heavily for more than a more tangible. The title of Teacher of the Year is an incred- clusion for the Americas UBS Investment decade until, with the help of a treatment cen- Bank, Stamford, Connecticut; Michele Hos- ter for the clergy, he recovered his sobriety. ible honor and is evidence of Ms. Cundiff’s ex- ceptional capabilities as an educator. Her kins, Michele Foods Inc. South Holland, Illi- Drawing on his personal struggle, Father Mar- nois; Gayle S. Lanier, Vice President and tin developed his famous ‘‘Chalk Talk on Alco- teaching skills have influenced many and pushed countless students to a higher level of General Manager, Nortel Knowledge Services hol,’’ a common-sense lecture on addiction Nortel Networks, Research Triangle Park, that remains in heavy use to this day, from the academic achievement. Ms. Cundiff’s outstanding accomplishments have distinguished North Carolina; Ellin LaVar, Owner, LaVar Hair U.S. Armed Forces to substance-abuse pro- Designs, New York City; Sibongile Magubane, grams around the world. her as one of the great teachers in Northwest Florida, and the First District of Florida is hon- Head of Finance Sports Cars, General Motors Along with his hard-won lessons on sobri- Corp., Detroit; Lillian Roberts, Executive Direc- ety, his most lasting legacy is Father Martin’s ored to have her as one of their own. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United tor, District Council 37, AFSCME, AFL–CIO, Ashley, a treatment center overlooking the New York City; Teresa Wynn Roseborough Chesapeake Bay in Harford County, Maryland. States Congress, I am proud to recognize Susan Cundiff on this outstanding achieve- Esq., Senior Chief Litigation Counsel, MetLife Father Martin’s Ashley has kept its doors open Inc., New York City; Sandra Scott Esq., Vice for more than three decades and, with the ment and for her exemplary service in the Santa Rosa School District. President of Legal Affairs, Home Box Office guidance and leadership of its co-founder, has Inc., New York City; Gerri Warren-Merrick, f served more than 30,000 people. A giving, President Warren, Merrick Communications, loving man who exemplified the best tenets of CELEBRATION OF WOMEN’S HIS- New York City; Elizabeth Williams, President his faith and of the sobriety movement, Father TORY MONTH AND THE NET- and CEO, Roxbury Technology Corp., Ja- Martin never turned away a potential patient WORK JOURNAL’S ELEVENTH maica Plain, Mass.; Karen Williams, Associate who was short on funds. His example and his ANNUAL 2009 TWENTY-FIVE IN- Publisher, Marketing, Essence Magazine, New wise counsel enabled recovering alcoholics FLUENTIAL BLACK WOMEN IN York City; Rebecca Williams, Senior Vice around the world to reclaim control of their BUSINESS HONOREES President, Executive Creative Officer, Uniworld lives. Group Inc., New York City; and Brenda Wil- Michael Deaver, who served as chief of staff liams-Butts, Director of Community Engage- to President Reagan and received treatment HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL OF NEW YORK ment & Audience Development, WNYC Radio, at Father Martin’s Ashley, said: ‘‘I had been New York City. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES with presidents, kings, popes, and prime min- The Network Journal has been recognized isters, but Father Martin was the most power- Monday, March 16, 2009 by government agencies, premier media out- ful person I had ever met. You see, Father Mr. RANGEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today lets and business and professional organiza- has the power to change people, to make in celebration of Women’s History Month and tions. TNJ has received the ‘‘Outstanding them better, to make them whole again.’’ The Network Journal’s Eleventh Annual 2009 Commitment and Positive Contribution to the Though Father Martin is gone, I am sure Twenty-Five Influential Black Women In Busi- MBE Community’’ from the U.S. Department that his legacy, his teaching, and his example ness Honorees. Since 1998, The Network of Commerce Minority Business Development will have that same power for years to come. Journal has recognized the outstanding per- Agency, and has been featured on CNN and f formance of 25 African-American women in FOX Television networks. RECOGNIZING SUSAN CUNDIFF AS the public, private, entrepreneurial and non- f THE 2008–2009 HURLBURT AFA profit sectors throughout this nation and their HONORING PAUL QUINN CHAPTER HIGH SCHOOL TEACH- impact to the world economy. COLLEGE’S 137TH ANNIVERSARY ER OF THE YEAR The Network Journal is a monthly business magazine with more than 88,000 readers. The publication is distributed nationwide with a HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON HON. JEFF MILLER OF TEXAS focus on the Tri-state area (NY/NJ/CT) and OF FLORIDA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES features business articles of interest such as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES finance, technology, industry focus and ideas Monday, March 16, 2009 Monday, March 16, 2009 for Black professionals and small business Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on owners. Aziz Gueye Adetimirin, Publisher of Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize behalf of the United States Congress, it is an The Network Journal Magazine stated. ‘‘The Paul Quinn College and this institution’s honor for me to rise today in recognition of women we are honoring this year are in the Founder’s Observance of 2009 entitled 137 Susan Cundiff, the 2008–2009 Hurlburt AFA forefront of American leadership and sym- Years of Combining Intellect with Faith. Chapter High School teacher of the Year. bolize the diversity and advancement that has Paul Quinn College is a historically black For many students, the prospect of taking occurred across industry lines.’’ Founded in college and holds the distinction of being the physics and chemistry is daunting. Yet, for 1993, The Network Journal (TNJ) knows that oldest such institution in the State of Texas. those at Gulf Breeze High School in Gulf Black professionals, more than most, recog- On April 4, 1872, a small group of African Breeze, Florida, these advanced subjects be- nize the importance of owning their own enter- Methodist Episcopal circuit-riding preachers come something comprehensible and enjoy- prises, but more importantly, TNJ knows that established the college under the leadership of able due to the outstanding teaching abilities there is a difference between direct ownership Bishop J. M. Brown in Austin, Texas. Origi- of Ms. Susan H. Cundiff. and someone else defining your future. TNJ is nally, Paul Quinn College helped newly freed

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Madam Speaker, pursuant to Account: DOJ—COPS Meth of Latin, mathematics, music, theology, the House Republican standards on earmarks, Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Secret English, carpentry, sewing, household, kitchen I am submitting the following information re- Witness and dining room work were added. In 1881, garding earmarks I received as part of H.R. Address of Requesting Entity: Secret Wit- the college was chartered by the State of 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009. ness Program at PO Box 20991, Reno, Ne- Texas and the school officially took the name Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN vada 89515 of Paul Quinn College. This name was chosen HELLER Description of Request: Secret Witness is a in honor of Bishop William Paul Quinn who Bill Number: HR 1105 non-profit organization (501 (c) (3)) that has served as a Bishop representing the western Account: Dept of Agriculture—SRG been active in northern Nevada for more than states in the African Methodist Episcopal Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University 30 years. Secret Witness will expand its ef- Church for over thirty years. of Nevada-Reno forts into Phase II, and will include an assess- Today Paul Quinn College stands as a leg- Address of Requesting Entity: 1664 N. Vir- ment of its program upon completion to deter- acy to the hard work and dedication of the in- ginia St., Reno, NV 89557-0208 mine the impact of the information. stitution’s founders, teachers, alumni, and stu- Description of Request: Funding would be Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN dents. On the week of March 28 through April used to address critical rangeland issues as HELLER 4, the college will be holding various Found- they affect the health and productivity of land, Bill Number: HR 1105 ers’ Observances to commemorate the birth forage for wildlife and domestic livestock, pro- Account: DOJ—OJP—Juvenile Assistance and 137 years of the school’s history. I ask my tection of endangered species, wildfires and Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National fellow colleagues to join me in honoring Paul invasive species. Science-based solutions to Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges Quinn College and recognizing this institution’s reduce wildfires, improve forage production, Address of Requesting Entity: 1041 North accomplishments. and protect wildlife species are critical needs. Virginia Street, Third Floor, Reno, Nevada Funds requested will pay for scientific projects 89503 Description of Request: The National Coun- f approved by the Experiment Station after peer-review. cil of Juvenile and Family Court Judges RECOGNIZING HELENE MCGLYNN Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN (NCJFCJ), the nation’s premier judicial edu- AS THE 2008–2009 HURLBURT AFA HELLER cation organization, has been providing critical CHAPTER ELEMENTARY AND Bill Number: HR 1105 education to members of this nation’s judiciary OVERALL TEACHER OF THE Account: Dept of Agriculture—Conservation for decades. Located on the University of Ne- YEAR Operations vada, Reno campus, its long and outstanding Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Carson reputation for providing cutting-edge training City, Nevada for judges and other system professionals in HON. JEFF MILLER Address of Requesting Entity: 201 North areas related to court practice is nationally Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89701 recognized. The National Council uses these OF FLORIDA Description of Request: Funding will be Federal dollars to provide training to judges IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES used by the city to continue fire restoration fol- nationwide on child abuse and neglect, juve- lowing the Waterfall wildfire. nile delinquency, divorce, custody and visita- Monday, March 16, 2009 Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN tion, substance abuse, and mental health and HELLER educational needs of children, among other Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I Bill Number: HR 1105 topics. rise today to recognize Ms. Helene ‘‘De De’’ Account: DOJ—COPS Law Enforcement Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN McGlynn, who has received the Hurlburt Air Technology HELLER Force Association Chapter 398 Teacher of the Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Washoe Bill Number: HR 1105 Year Award for the 2008–2009 school year. County Sheriff’s Department Account: Corps of Engineers—Investigations Her passion and dedication show that teach- Address of Requesting Entity: 911 Parr Bou- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Truckee ers can truly make a difference in the lives of levard, Reno NV 89512 River Flood Project their students, and I am proud to honor such Description of Request: Funding will be Address of Requesting Entity: 9390 Gate- an admirable leader of our local community. used to improve DNA processing technology way Drive, Ste. 230, Reno, NV 89521 Ms. McGlynn teaches fifth grade at Florosa at the sheriff’s office, which serves most of Description of Request: The Truckee Mead- Elementary School in Mary Esther, Florida. northern Nevada. The bulk of the funds would ows, Nevada project is a multi-purpose project Her classes span the width of the education specifically help with the creation of a DNA that will provide flood damage reduction, eco- spectrum, from a gifted and advanced math database laboratory, in addition to purchasing system restoration and recreation along the class to a science and reading class for lower equipment. Truckee River from Reno to Pyramid Lake. performing students. She provides a differen- Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN tiated curriculum to her pupils by integrating HELLER HELLER Bill Number: HR 1105 Bill Number: HR 1105 math, science, and reading skills to all aca- Account: DOJ—COPS meth Account: Corps of Engineers—Construction demic levels. By using hands-on experiments, Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Partner- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: no enti- creative discussions, and real-world problem ship Carson City Anti-Meth Coalition ty—program request spent by Corps solving, Ms. McGlynn inspires a passion for Address of Requesting Entity: 201 North Address of Requesting Entity: learning to all. Her unwavering goal is to instill Carson Street, Carson City, NV 89701 Description of Request: The Rural Nevada a thirst for knowledge in her students by Description of Request: Funding will be program was designed to benefit small com- crafting a relevant, modern program for class- used to combat methamphetamine in the Car- munities and to provide assistance for con- room success. son City area, which is one of the top crime struction of water supply, wastewater treat- Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United and narcotics issues facing the state. Carson ment, environmental restoration and surface States Congress, I would like to thank Ms. City has developed a model program that water protection projects. The difficulty in McGlynn for her public service to the students combines law enforcement, public awareness, meeting water supply needs in Nevada has of Northwest Florida. Vicki and I wish her and drug treatment and counseling programs to only been exacerbated by the tremendous her family best wishes for continued success. eradicate meth use in the local community. growth Nevada has experienced. The Rural

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Nevada Program was authorized in a prior Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN commercial retail district for the Reno/Sparks Water Resources Development Act and splits HELLER metropolitan area. the project costs with the federal government Bill Number: HR 1105 Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN 75% federal share/25% local share. Account: HHS—HRSA HELLER Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Carson/ Bill Number: HR 1105 HELLER Tahoe Regional Healthcare/CTRH Dayton Account: DOT — Transportation, Commu- Bill Number: HR 1105 Hospital nity, and System Presentation Account: DOE—EERE Address of Requesting Entity: 1600 Medical Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Desert Parkway, Carson City, Nevada 89703 Reno, NV Research Institute Description of Request: Funding would be Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box Address of Requesting Entity: 2215 Raggio used to provide Emergency Medical Services 1900, Reno, NV 89505 Description of Request: Funding would be Parkway, Reno, NV 89512 Equipment for the hospital, which serves a used for continuing the revitalization and en- Description of Request: A Renewable En- large and fast-growing region. hancement of the downtown rail access cor- ergy Center (REC) will serve as the physical Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN ridor. and programmatic focal point for all of Desert HELLER Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Research Institute (DRI) research, develop- Bill Number: HR 1105 ment, demonstration, and deployment HELLER Account: HHS—HRSA Bill Number: HR 1105 (RDD&D) work in the area of renewable en- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Pershing Account: HUD—Economic Development Ini- ergy. DRI has proven strengths in wind and County General Hospital and Nursing Home tiatives hydrogen research, with significant potential to Address of Requesting Entity: PO Box 661, Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of expand its renewable-energy activities into Lovelock, Nevada 89419 Fernley, NV areas such as biomass and biofuels. Description of Request: Funding would be Address of Requesting Entity: 595 Silver Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN used for the purchase of equipment, specifi- Lace Blvd., Fernley, NV 89408 HELLER cally a mammography machine. Description of Request: Funding will be Bill Number: HR 1105 Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN used for the redevelopment and enhancement Account: Small Business Administration HELLER of an historically significant downtown corridor Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Western Bill Number: HR 1105 to attract business and generate jobs, largely Nevada Development District Account: HHS—HRSA in response to destruction from a recent flood. Address of Requesting Entity: 704 West Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Mary’s Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Nye Lane, Ste 201, Carson City, Nevada Regional Medical Center HELLER 89703 Address of Requesting Entity: 235 West Bill Number: HR 1105 Description of Request: WNDD is a multi- Sixth Street, Reno, Nevada 89503 Account: HUD—Economic Development Ini- county development organization that pro- Description of Request: Funding will be tiatives motes job creation and growth among mostly used to expand and renovate the existing, out- Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of small businesses. Funds will promote job cre- dated emergency unit. Wells, NV ation in northern Nevada. Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Address of Requesting Entity: 1279 Clover EAN Requesting Member: Congressman D HELLER Avenue, P.O. Box. 366, Wells, Nevada 89835 HELLER Bill Number: HR 1105 Description of Request: Funding will be Bill Number: HR 1105 Account: HHS—HRSA used for streetscaping and construction of an Account: EPA—Science and Technology Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Center for indoor recreation facility, largely in response to Legal Name of Requesting Entity: American Molecular Medicine/Institute for Neuro-Immune destruction caused by a recent earthquake. Water Works Research Foundation Disease at Pennington Medical Building f Address of Requesting Entity: 6666 W. Address of Requesting Entity: Mail Stop Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235 STRONG OPPOSITION TO THE 0332, Reno, Nevada 89557 Description of Request: Funding would be FDIC’S SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ON Description of Request: Funding will be used to continue research into cost-effective COMMUNITY BANKS AND THE used for construction and equipment for the technologies for water quality that will benefit NEGATIVE IMPACT IT WILL Institute clinical and research facility. consumers, as the primary purpose of the re- HAVE ON THESE INSTITUTIONS, Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN search is to enable water utilities to practically THE COMMUNITIES THEY SERVE, HELLER address and manage challenges to water sup- SMALL BUSINESSES, COMMU- Bill Number: HR 1105 ply and to be directly involved in the deploy- NITY-BASED GROUPS, FAITH- Account: DOT—Buses and Bus Facilities ment of new technologies. BASED GROUPS, AND CESAR Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Regional Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN CHAVEZ GROUPS Transportation Commission of Washoe Coun- HELLER Bill Number: HR 1105 ty, Nevada. ´ Address of Requesting Entity: 2050 HON. RUBEN HINOJOSA Account: EPA–STAG OF TEXAS Villanova Drive, Reno, NV 89520 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Description of Request: Funding would be Henderson, NV Monday, March 16, 2009 Address of Requesting Entity: 240 Water used to complete the replacement intermodal Street, Henderson, NV 89009 transportation facilities in downtown Sparks Mr. HINOJOSA. Madam Speaker, over the Description of Request: Funding would be and Reno that are currently operating over ca- years, Texas community banks have provided used for construction of the Southwest Waste- pacity. the loans and services to small businesses water Treatment Plant/Southwest Water Rec- Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN and others, which have helped me help my lamation Facility. HELLER district. Together, the community banks, the Requesting Member: Congressman DEAN Bill Number: HR 1105 credit unions, the chambers of commerce, the HELLER Account: DOT—Interstate Maintenance Dis- mayors, the Texas Senate and House, the Bill Number: HR 1105 cretionary Public Housing Authorities, the CDCs, and Account: EPA–STAG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Regional many more in the Rio Grande Valley helped Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Transportation Commission of Washoe Coun- me reduce the unemployment rate in my dis- Reno, NV ty, NV trict from 23 percent when I first arrived in Address of Requesting Entity: 1 E 1st Address of Requesting Entity: 2050 Congress all the way down to 6 percent, Street, Reno, NV 89501 Villanova Drive, Reno, NV 89520 which has increased to 9 percent in January Description of Request: Funding would be Description of Request: Funding will be 2009. used to convert septic systems to sewer sys- used to mitigate severe current and future traf- I want to impress upon you the need for all tems, in order to help promote health and fic congestion occurring on I-580/US 395 and of us on this Committee, the House of Rep- safety of residents. the adjacent surface arterials in the primary resentatives, the Congress in general and the

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:51 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0689 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR09\E16MR9.000 E16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD 7376 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 March 16, 2009 Executive branch to keep in mind the impor- ject to the same assessment rate schedule, sessment on all the insured institutions across tance of community banks. It is a small—but but not necessarily the same assessment rate. the board. But, it is flawed. And, I’ll ask one vital—sector in the overall health of our econ- What is key here is the amount each institu- more time why should community banks that omy. Community banks foster economic tion is assessed is based upon statutory fac- had little to nothing to do with the current cri- growth and serve their communities, boost tors that include the balance of insured depos- sis have to pay the special assessment? small businesses, and help increase individual its as well as the degree of risk the institution They are small institutions that are well-cap- savings, which is of particular importance to poses to the insurance fund. Community italized whose funds are needed by local com- me as Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Finan- banks do not pose a risk to the solvency of munities. Only thirteen out of 640 community cial and Economic Literacy Caucus. the Deposit Insurance Fund and its Des- banks in Texas have opted to participate in While community banks are not the cause ignated Reserve Ratio and were not a party to Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program, and of the current crisis, they are feeling its ef- the activities that led to such a low DIF ratio none of them are based out of my district. fects. Commercial banks and savings institu- to the best of my knowledge. As noted, the Full Committee and subse- tions insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance The FDIC has a $30 billion line of credit quently the House of Representatives passed Corporation (FDIC) reported a net loss of with the Treasury Department to meet its obli- legislation authorizing the FDIC to borrow up $26.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008. gations. I am not opposed to the FDIC tapping to $100 billion from Treasury. Recently, Sen- However, more than two-thirds of all insured that source. Our nation is in a severe eco- ate Banking Committee Chairman CHRIS- institutions were profitable in the fourth quarter nomic crisis, and the FDIC plays a pivotal role TOPHER DODD introduced legislation that would of 2008, including community banks. ‘‘Unfortu- in the financial system. We need to provide give the FDIC’s Board of Directors, the Board nately, their earnings were outweighed by Chairman Bair and the Board with as much of Governors of the Federal Reserve System large losses at a number of big banks’’, as support as possible while simultaneously and the Secretary of the Treasury, in consulta- stated by the FDIC in their Quarterly Banking avoiding imposing unnecessary and unwar- tion with the President, the power to increase Report. ranted special assessments on financial insti- the FDIC’s borrowing authority above the $100 Total deposits increased by $307.9 billion tutions that had nothing to do with the current billion cap to an amount they deem necessary (3.5 percent), the largest percentage increase economic crisis or the condition of the overall to maintain the stability and designated rein 10 years, with deposits in domestic offices banking industry. serve ratio of the FDIC’s Deposit Insurance registering a $274.1 billion (3.8 percent) in- The FDIC’s Deposit Insurance Fund cur- Fund, but not to exceed $500 billion. This bor- crease. And at year-end, nearly 98 percent of rently has $19 billion available, $22B billion rowing authority would sunset on December all insured institutions, representing almost 99 set-aside for estimated losses on failures an- 31, 2010. percent of industry assets, met or exceeded ticipated in 2009, and a $30 billion line of I support Chairman DODD’s legislation—both the highest regulatory capital standards. credit with the Department of Treasury, bring- its intent and its language—in large part due I agree with a statement made by Chairman ing the total ‘‘available’’ to $69 billion. to the strict requirements it imposes on the Sheila Bair that, and I quote, ‘‘public con- Legislation that recently passed the House FDIC, the Federal Reserve, and Treasury (in fidence in the banking system and deposit in- and is being considered in the Senate in- consultation with the President) prior to grant- surance is demonstrated by the increase in cluded a $70 billion increase in the FDIC’s line ing the authority for the FDIC to borrow be- domestic deposits during the fourth quarter. of credit at Treasury to $100 billion, more than yond the proposed $100 billion threshold as capped in the House-passed version of the Clearly, people see an FDIC-insured account three-fold, and was intentionally capped at legislation. It is sound public policy. as a safe haven for their money in difficult $100 billion during a markup, bringing the total At the same time, with all the funds the times.’’ dollar amount available for the Deposit Insur- FDIC currently has available and the addi- Higher level of losses for actual and antici- ance Fund to $141 billion, provided the legis- tional borrowing authority it likely will have pated failures caused the FDIC Deposit Insur- lation passes and is signed by the President. soon, I don’t believe it needs to tap the com- ance Fund balance to decline during the fourth Although very pleased to learn that Chair- munity banks in my district, in Texas and the quarter of 2008 by $16 billion, to $19 billion man Bair would cut the emergency special as- United States. (unaudited) at December 31. In addition to sessment in half, to 10 basis points, provided I have the utmost respect and confidence in having $19 billion available in the fund, $22 Congress increases the FDIC’s borrowing au- Chairman Bair. I laud her for her commitment billion has been set aside for estimated losses thority to $100 billion, a quid pro quo, I remain to financial literacy, especially her efforts to on failures anticipated in 2009. The fund re- steadfast in my opposition to any special as- bring the unbanked into the mainstream finan- serve ratio declined from 0.76 percent at Sep- sessment that would be imposed on commu- cial system and away from check cashers, tember 30, 2008, to 0.40 percent in the last nity banks. and payday and predatory lenders. I acknowl- quarter of 2008. The statutory ‘‘targeted’’ re- Community banks did not cause the eco- edge and commend her and the FDIC Board serve ratio for the FDIC fund is 1.15 percent. nomic crisis. To the best of my knowledge, for all their efforts and success at addressing When the FDIC Board recently met to ad- community banks do not pose a threat to the the current economic crisis, up to a point. dress DIF’ s fund reserve ratio, they decided Deposit Insurance Fund or its Designated Re- The FDIC’s proposed emergency special to increase deposit insurance assessment serve Ratio. Community banks did what they assessment will not only negatively impact rates beginning in the second quarter of 2009 always do, they took care of their commu- community banks, but it will not help me in my and to consider adopting enhancements to the nities, small businesses, faith-based groups, capacity as Co-Chair of the Financial and Eco- risk-based premium system. community-based groups, nonprofits, Ce´sar nomic Literacy Caucus. It will not help me as I must admit that I was surprised and con- Cha´vez entities and many, many others. a member of the Financial Services Com- cerned when I read the FDIC’s press release Under the restoration plan approved last mittee. It definitely will not help me, a rep- announcing that the FDIC Board adopted an October, the FDIC Board set a rate schedule resentative of the poorest county in the coun- interim rule to impose a 20 basis point ‘‘emer- to raise the DIF reserve ratio to 1.15 percent try, to bring the unbanked into the mainstream gency special assessment’’ on the industry on within five years. Recent actions taken by the financial system. June 30, 2009. The assessment is to be col- FDIC extends the restoration plan horizon to There are alternatives to what the FDIC is lected on September 30, 2009. The interim seven years in recognition of the current sig- proposing. If the FDIC needs additional funds rule would also permit the Board to impose an nificant strains on banks and the financial sys- to meet the designated reserve ratio, it can additional emergency special assessment after tem and the likelihood of a severe recession. easily change the assessment base from do- June 30, 2009, of up to 10 basis points if they I agree with FDIC Chairman Sheila Bair’s mestic deposits to all deposits. The FDIC deem it necessary to maintain public con- statement in the release that, and I quote, could tap temporary funding from the Treas- fidence in federal deposit insurance. ‘‘Public confidence in the FDIC guarantee has ury, like Wall Street firms, to re-capitalize the The FDIC merged the Bank Insurance Fund helped assure a stable source of funding for insurance fund, giving Main Street banks time (BIF) and the Savings Association Insurance banks in these troubled times.’’ However, I am to strengthen their balance sheets and allow Fund (SAIF) to form the Deposit Insurance curious as to why community banks that local lending activities to continue, and grow, Fund (DIF) on March 31, 2006 in accordance played little to no role in the current financial to help our struggling economy recover, rather with the Federal Deposit Insurance Reform crisis will have to pay a special assessment than constrict lending further by imposing a Act of 2005. As a result of the merger of the for something they did not do. I understand new debt obligation on already burdened bal- BIF and SAIF, all insured institutions are sub- the argument that it’s best to impose the as- ance sheets.

VerDate Mar 15 2010 13:51 Jun 30, 2011 Jkt 079102 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0689 Sfmt 9920 E:\BR09\E16MR9.000 E16MR9 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with BOUND RECORD March 16, 2009 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS, Vol. 155, Pt. 6 7377 I cannot support a policy in which a federal Digest—designated by the Rules Com- 2:45 p.m. agency takes funds from my district, which in- mittee—of the time, place, and purpose Armed Services cludes Hidalgo County—the poorest county in of the meetings, when scheduled, and Personnel Subcommittee To hold hearings to examine the inci- the country—and transfers them to the limited any cancellations or changes in the areas of the country in which the large banks dence of suicides of United States meetings as they occur. Servicemembers and initiatives within and entities other than community banks or As an additional procedure along the Department of Defense to prevent credit unions, with the help of certain regu- with the computerization of this infor- military suicides. lators, created the current global economic cri- SH–216 sis. mation, the Office of the Senate Daily Madam Speaker, I hope that someone out Digest will prepare this information for MARCH 19 printing in the Extensions of Remarks there is listening. 9:30 a.m. f section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD Armed Services on Monday and Wednesday of each To hold hearings to examine United TREASURE ISLAND MAYOR MARY week. States Pacific Command, United States MALOOF COMPLETES 12 YEARS Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Strategic Command, and United States OF SERVICE TO HER COMMUNITY Forces Korea, with the possibility of a March 17, 2009 may be found in the closed session following in SR–222. HON. C.W. BILL YOUNG Daily Digest of today’s RECORD. SH–216 Energy and Natural Resources OF FLORIDA MEETINGS SCHEDULED To hold hearings to examine the Appli- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ance Standards Improvement Act of Monday, March 16, 2009 MARCH 18 2009. 9:30 a.m. SD–366 Mr. YOUNG of Florida. Madam Speaker, Energy and Natural Resources 10 a.m. Treasure Island Mayor Mary Maloof turns over To hold hearings to examine nuclear en- Commerce, Science, and Transportation her gavel this week during the city commis- ergy development; to be immediately To hold hearings to examine cybersecu- sion’s regularly scheduled meeting, ending 12 followed by a business meeting to con- rity, focusing on assessing our years of dedicated service. sider the nomination of David J. vulnerabilities and developing an effec- It has been a privilege to work with Mayor Hayes, of Virginia, to be Deputy Sec- tive defense. Maloof on a number of projects important to retary of the Interior. SR–253 SD–366 the people of Treasure Island. Most notable Foreign Relations Veterans’ Affairs To hold hearings to examine prospects was the rebuilding of the Treasure Island To hold joint hearings to examine the for engagement with Russia. Causeway and Draw Bridge, which serves as legislative presentation of the Vet- SD–419 a major evacuation route for the city’s resi- erans of Foreign Wars. Judiciary dents. Together, we dedicated this $65 million 334, Cannon Building Business meeting to consider S. 515, to project in June of 2006, to the cheers of the 10 a.m. Commerce, Science, and Transportation amend title 35, United States Code, to people of Treasure Island and to the relief of provide for patent reform, and the the city’s engineers who were concerned To hold hearings to examine the nomination of Gary Locke, of Washington, to nomination of Dawn Elizabeth about the safety of the old bridge. be Secretary of Commerce. Johnsen, of Indiana, to be an Assistant Mayor Maloof was never afraid to tackle a SR–253 Attorney General, Department of Jus- problem of any size whether it is a major Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions tice. bridge replacement, the largest public works Business meeting to consider S. 277, to SD–226 project in the city’s history, or the concern of amend the National and Community Small Business and Entrepreneurship a single constituent. She approached all those Service Act of 1990 to expand and im- To hold hearings to examine perspectives challenges with the same interest and can-do prove opportunities for service. from main street on small business spirit. SD–430 lending. Judiciary SR–428A Mayor Maloof served for six years as a City To hold hearings to examine the Na- 10:30 a.m. Commissioner before being elected Mayor in tional Academy of Science’s report Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs 2003. She was the first woman to be elected Strengthening Forensic Science in the To hold hearings to examine bank super- Mayor of Treasure Island and was reelected to United States: A Path Forward. vision and regulators. a second three-year-term in 2006. SD–226 SD–538 She had the great honor to preside over the 10:30 a.m. 2 p.m. city’s 50th anniversary in 2005 and through Appropriations Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs her 12 years of service to the people of Treas- Defense Subcommittee Financial Institutions Subcommittee To hold hearings to examine Department To hold hearings to examine current ure Island, she has set the city on course for of Defense medical programs. great success and prosperity over the course issues in deposit insurance. SD–192 SD–538 of its next 50 years. 2:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. Madam Speaker, serving as mayor of any Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Intelligence community large or small is among the tough- fairs To hold closed hearings on examine cer- est of elected positions. Mayor Mary Maloof Disaster Recovery Subcommittee tain intelligence matters. has carried out her duties with the greatest of To hold hearings to examine findings SH–219 honor and dedication and it is my hope that from the Disaster Recovery Sub- committee Special Report and working MARCH 24 my colleagues join me today in saluting her for with the Administration on a way for- a job well done. ward. 9:30 a.m. f SD–342 Armed Services To hold hearings to examine United SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Finance Health Care Subcommittee States European Command and United Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, To hold hearings to examine what is States Joint Forces Command; with agreed to by the Senate on February 4, health care quality and who decides. the possibility of a closed session fol- 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- SD–215 lowing in SR–222. tem for a computerized schedule of all Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs SH–216 10 a.m. meetings and hearings of Senate com- Securities, Insurance and Investment Sub- committee Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- To hold hearings to examine risk man- To hold hearings to examine addressing tees, and committees of conference. agement oversight at Federal financial insurance market reform in national This title requires all such committees regulations. health reform. to notify the Office of the Senate Daily SD–538 SD–430

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