Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I rise in support of H.R. 3096, which designates the building occupied by the FBI in Vienna, Virginia, as the ``Michael D. Resnick Terrorist Screening Center.''

As a former law enforcement officer, I have a special appreciation for Supervisory Special Agent Resnick's 20-year FBI career. His service was highlighted by his role as a senior advisor in the White House, where he had a prominent role in leading the Presidential review of watch-listing policies and procedures in the aftermath of the failed terrorist airplane bombing on December 25, 2009. Special Agent Resnick led the interagency review, which led to significant improvements in how the U.S. Government screens and integrates intelligence on terrorist suspects.

Agent Resnick was a well-respected public servant who passed away in 2011 as a result of pancreatic cancer. This designation is supported by the building owner, and it will stay with the building for as long as the FBI occupies this facility. The name designation of the FBI's Terrorist Screening Center is a very fitting tribute to Supervisory Special Agent Resnick and his exemplary career with the FBI. Agent Resnick will be remembered for his dedication to developing the architecture of a government-wide watch-listing of terrorism suspects, and for his tireless efforts to protect our fellow Americans from terrorism. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3096.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Connolly).

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart, as I grieve with the City of Indianapolis and the entire law enforcement community. Last Friday, we lost a man of valor.

While responding to a domestic call, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Rod Bradway was tragically killed. When Officer Bradway heard a desperate cry for help, he acted without hesitation or fear to save a life, and in so doing, he sacrificed his own.

Confronting danger to protect all of us was nothing new for Officer Bradway, who had already received the department's Medal of Bravery and who also served as a firefighter and EMT. We should all aspire to Officer Bradway's level of courage and heroism.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending prayers to Officer Bradway's wife and family and ask that they honor his life by remembering to always uplift their local law enforcement officers and give gratitude for their sacrifices.

Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 478, I was detained with constituents. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no'' against funding the Affordable Care Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Melvin B. Girton, Sr., who, after 50 years of dedicated service, has retired as the senior pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church in Indianapolis.

Throughout his career, Dr. Girton has been a champion for civil rights and an outspoken advocate for social justice. As spiritual leader of the 94-year-old congregation, he has organized and hosted hundreds of events to bring the people of central Indiana together in celebration, remembrance, and hope. He remains dedicated to these goals even in retirement and will continue to serve as host pastor for the annual Indianapolis Emancipation Proclamation service, an event that is attended by dignitaries and officials from around the country. Dr. Girton's advocacy has not been limited to the pulpit, though. He he has worked tirelessly for equality and opportunity as Vice President of the Indianapolis Branch of the NAACP and has been an ever present force in efforts to strengthen our community.

Recognizing a need for job training and the redevelopment of local neighborhoods, Dr. Girton founded the Christ Missionary Baptist Economical Training & Development Center in 1998. The Center began as a small laundry mat in an underused strip mall near the church, but over time has grown to provide a powerful social outlet for seniors, job training for local youth, and reintegration services for juvenile and adult offenders.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Girton for his years of dedicated service to his parishioners, the Indianapolis community, and all Hoosiers.

Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, the Supreme Court made a decision that threatens the right to vote for millions of Americans.

With this misguided decision, leaders in States with a history of discrimination can proceed unimpeded with plans to obstruct the civil rights of American citizens. Whether through gerrymandering or voter ID laws, like the one in my home State of Indiana, efforts are being made to restrict the voting rights of minorities, low-income families and seniors.

I stand today to ask my colleagues in Congress to recognize the importance of preserving the right to vote for all Americans, regardless of background. As elected Representatives, we understand better than anyone that an open, equitable process is the very foundation and definition of our democracy.

Mr. Speaker, the Supreme Court called on Congress to act for the good of our country and our constituents. We must act boldly and quickly.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a Hoosier and a very dedicated public servant, Mr. Rodric Myers, who is retiring after serving Congress for more than 40 years.

Rod Myers grew up in my hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana and graduated from Shortridge High School. He comes from a family tradition of serving others and helping his community. His mother, Susie Myers, who was 100 years old when she died last year, was beloved by our community after teaching generations of public school and Sunday School students. Rod's brother, Bud, currently serves Indianapolis as the Director of our Public Housing Authority, but once served on Capitol Hill as the Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Barbara Jordan.

Rod followed his brother to Washington and was nominated to the U.S. Capitol Police Force by another great Hoosier, Congressman Andy Jacobs in 1972. Rod started as a uniformed patrol officer serving at the Capitol and eventually became the Administrative Specialist for the entire Capitol Division, with responsibilities for approximately 100 officers, including the daily roster assignment of officers. During his 29 years with the Capitol Police, Rod prided himself on promoting a disciplined force and keeping this campus safe. In 2001, Rod was appointed to serve as the Director of House Garages and Parking Security under the House Sergeant at Arms, where he served until his retirement this month. During his years of service in the House, Rod had the honor of working 10 Presidential Inaugurations and 40 State of the Union Addresses.

I have had the privilege to work directly with Rod on several occasions since coming to Congress. Earlier this year, my staff and I ran into a glitch when moving from the Cannon Building to Rayburn Building. We assumed it would be a time-consuming, bureaucratic nightmare. But with a quick trip downstairs and a conversation with Rod, everything was corrected. This is just one occasion and, in fact, he served the House well 9/11, during the anthrax attacks, and even during an earthquake. But this one instance, like others I have had over the years, illustrates just what this institution is losing in Rod Myers--a committed, efficient public servant.

His 40 years of service to the House have been distinguished by his professionalism and dedication to ensuring that the People's House remains safe, strong and always available for our constituents. Though we will miss him, we congratulate him on his much deserved retirement and wish him the very best.

Mr. Speaker, this week the House is voting to repeal the Affordable Care Act for the 37th time.

In every congressional district, there are seniors, new mothers, young children, low-income families, and young adults just starting out on their own. Do my good Republican friends really want to take away their chance for better health?

I would never do that to my constituents, which is why I'm here today, Mr. Speaker, to say again, I am proud of my vote for the Affordable Care Act.

Recently, I had a chance to spend some time with some Hoosiers across my district, and I heard again and again their worry about rising health care costs and their family's ability to access care. Fortunately, millions of Americans no longer have to worry about accessing care because of the Affordable Care Act. Instead, more than half a million Medicare beneficiaries in Indiana alone received free preventive services in 2012, avoiding more costly illnesses. More than 17 million children with preexisting conditions nationwide are no longer being denied insurance coverage. More than 100 million Americans no longer face lifetime limits on coverage.

Mr. Speaker, over 360,000 small businesses have already used tax credits to help insure 2 million workers. By the end of this year, health exchanges will be set up making it easier for people who don't have insurance to choose the coverage that best suits their needs. Next year, we will happily welcome even more consumer protections. Insurance companies will no longer be able to place lifetime limits on coverage. Discrimination against preexisting conditions will be banned for all Americans.

This means that when a woman notices a lump under her arm, there is no reason for her to wait until she finds a job to schedule an appointment. And she doesn't have to wait to get sicker, costing more of her time off from work and away from her family. Under the Affordable Care Act, Mr. Speaker, she knows she can obtain potentially lifesaving care right away. The same goes for her spouse, her parents, and her children. Our health care system benefits us by allowing us to make investments in lower-cost treatments and prevention now rather than expensive therapies later.

Of course, I know that times are tough right now and we have to be even more careful about the mandates we put on businesses. But my good Republican colleagues seem to forget that people have to be healthy to contribute to our economic growth. As a Representative of many hardworking families, Mr. Speaker, I have stood here time and time again over the past few years to extend a hand to anyone who wants to work with me and us to provide quality health care for all Americans.

Today, I make that very same offer. I will work gladly with anyone who wants to improve our health care system and ensure that all Americans have access to quality and affordable health care.

I call on my Republican colleagues to work with us to implement the Affordable Care Act and start improving it. It's time we all stand together, Mr. Speaker, and start looking out for the health of this great Nation. Without it, we have nothing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a hero laid to rest in my district this weekend.

Sergeant Tristan Wade joined the Army while still attending Southport High School and served bravely as a combat engineer in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Without question, his work saved lives.

Tragically, he lost his own on March 22 in Afghanistan at the hands of an improvised explosive device.

His commanding officer paid him the ultimate soldier's tribute, saying ``he gave his life to free the oppressed.''

A highly decorated non-commissioned officer, Tristan was known to friends and family for his putting the well-being of others over his own.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sergeant Tristan Wade--a proud American, a Hoosier, and soldier--and letting his wife, children, parents, family, and friends know that while he will be missed, his sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to reintroduce legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Muhammad Ali in recognition of his contributions to our nation. I believe it is long past time to recognize and honor an American civil rights activist and sporting legend with Congress' highest honor. Over the course of his illustrious career, Muhammad Ali has produced some of our nation's most lasting sports memories. From winning a Gold Medal at the 1960 Summer Olympics to lighting the Olympic torch at the 1996 Summer Olympics, his influence as an athlete and a humanitarian has spanned over fifty years.

Despite having been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the 1980s, Ali has devoted his life to charitable organizations. Ali and his wife, Lonnie, are founding directors of the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and Movement Disorders Clinic in Phoenix, AZ and have helped raise over $50 million for Parkinson's research. In addition to helping families cope with illness, Ali has led efforts to provide meals for the hungry and has helped countless organizations such as the Make-A-Wish-Foundation and the Special Olympics.

Muhammad Ali's humanitarian efforts go beyond his charitable activities in the United States. In 1990 Muhammad Ali travelled to the Middle East to seek the release of American and British hostages that were being held as human shields in the first Gulf War. After his intervention, 15 hostages were freed. Thanks to his devotion to diplomatic causes and racial harmony, Ali is the recipient of many accolades, including being chosen as a ``U.N. Messenger of Peace'' in 1998 and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.

Through his unyielding dedication to his sport and to struggling populations around the world, Muhammad Ali serves as an example of service and self-sacrifice for generations of Americans. The Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting commemoration of his life and work, for which he is deservingly known as ``the Greatest.''

Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing one of our nation's most lasting and influential figures by signing on to this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 481, whose generous contribution of time and talent has helped to make the Circle of Lights the premier holiday event for central Indiana for the past fifty years.

On the Friday after Thanksgiving, the remarkable transformation of Indianapolis's signature landmark, Monument Circle, into the world's largest Christmas tree symbolizes the beginning of the holiday season for Hoosiers. The extraordinary efforts of IBEW Local 481 have helped to make the Circle of Lights one of the largest public events in central Indiana.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating IBEW Local 481 for their outstanding contributions to this awe-inspiring holiday event. The Circle of Lights simply would not be possible without their expertise and generous support. My wife, Mariama, my daughter, Salimah, and I eagerly await the lighting of the world's largest Christmas tree in the company of Hoosiers from all across the Great State of Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to express my gratitude to Dr. Marcia Goldstone for her considerable achievements over the past 35-years with the Jewish Community Relations Council. Her vision, leadership and tireless devotion to promoting social justice and interfaith dialogue has strengthened and enriched the 71h District of Indiana in countless ways.

As the long-serving Executive Director of the JCRC, Dr. Goldstone created and led dozens of issue-based coalitions made up of exemplary business and religious leaders, educators, and philanthropists to foster a welcoming and secure environment for our growing Jewish community. I applaud the JCRC for its embrace of the ancient tradition of tzedakah, the Hebrew word for charity, by assisting Jewish families who have fallen on hard times, assisting Soviet Jewry to integrate into American society, and promoting a deeper understanding amongst peoples of faith throughout Central Indiana.

Dr. Goldstone's influence and passion for fighting injustice and promoting tolerance extends beyond Central Indiana. Her persistent efforts as part of a broad coalition of religious and secular organizations encouraged the Reagan Administration and Congressional leaders to call for the end of Apartheid in South Africa and release of Nelson Mandela. These efforts have earned her numerous

awards and accolades, including the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dr. Marcia Goldstone for her outstanding service to the City of Indianapolis. Her retirement from the JCRC closes a chapter on an impressive career. She has been an extraordinary friend and adviser both to me and to my grandmother, the late Congresswoman Julia Carson. I wish her the very best and look forward to working with the JCRC of Indianapolis for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Samuel L. Odle on his retirement from Indiana University Health. IU Health is our state's most comprehensive healthcare provider, encompassing twenty hospitals and health centers. U.S. News & World Report has named IU Health as one of the ``Best Hospitals in America'' for fourteen consecutive years--a laudable achievement and further evidence of Mr. Odle's prowess as one of the very best health care executives in the Nation. For 31 years, Mr. Odle has worked to improve patient care and expand the reach of IU Health to underserved communities throughout Indiana. The establishment of the new IU Health Pathology Laboratory and Neuroscience Center are testament to his leadership and devotion to advancing the practice of medicine.

In addition to spending long hours at IU Health and raising his three children, Mr. Odle has worked tirelessly on behalf of the United Way of Central Indiana, the Jordan Foundation, the Crossroads of America Boy Scouts Council, and the Methodist Health Foundation.

Mr. Odle is more than just an outstanding executive, community leader and philanthropist. On a personal level, he has served as a role model for me and a source of inspiration for many years. Samuel L. Odle is a pillar in the community; he sets a fine example for all of us.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sam Odle for his exceptional service to the 7th District of Indiana. I wish him the very best in his retirement, and look forward to working with him for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to express my gratitude to Tamara Zahn for her considerable achievements over the past two decades as President of Indianapolis Downtown, Inc. Her vision, leadership and tireless determination have helped transform downtown Indianapolis into a first-class destination for visitors and Hoosiers alike.

Our ``Hoosier Hospitality,'' in combination with our well-deserved reputation as a premier location for sports fans, has made the City of Indianapolis a model for other municipalities looking to rejuvenate their image and grow their local economy.

Under the tenure of Tamara Zahn, our city has witnessed unprecedented growth and a staggering transformation of downtown Indianapolis. Our once sleepy, urban center is now an attractive and pedestrian friendly destination, complete with highly-regarded attractions like the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, Victory Field, White River State Park, and the Eiteljorg Museum, along with first-class accommodations for visitors on any budget. Ms. Zahn's ability to communicate her vision helped make the construction of world-class facilities like Lucas Oil Stadium, Circle Center Mall, and the Indiana Convention Center a reality.

Tamara Zahn was one of the principal drivers of this remarkable transformation. Over the past 19 years, she has galvanized the respective talents and resources of private enterprise and federal, state, and local officials for the purpose of revitalizing our city.

Ms. Zahn's incredible success is testament to her skill and vision as an urban planner, leader and innovator. Her considerable achievements have not gone unrecognized. She has been named one of the ``Most Influential Women in Indianapolis'' and was awarded the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash award.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Tamara Zahn for her exceptional service to Indianapolis.

Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Mr. Chairman, it is no secret to anyone in this Chamber that the American people are unhappy with Congress. In fact, our approval ratings could only be described as terrible. As much as television personalities might like to analyze why, I don't think it's difficult to understand. Time and time again, Mr. Chairman, our work ignores their priorities.

Now, under Republican leadership, we have spent months arguing over eliminating regulations, shrinking government, and crippling the Obama administration. Yet since the lowest point of economic downturn in 2008, the American people have cared mostly about two things: good jobs and stable housing. These are issues that have hit the African American community especially hard, which is why I come to the floor today with several of my colleagues from the Congressional Black Caucus.

Today, Mr. Chairman, unemployment among African Americans is above 13 percent, much higher than the national average. Concerns about stable housing are really nothing new, but they have been especially difficult since the start of our recession. In fact, 42 percent of homeless families with children are African American. So we were all glad to see the House take up the Transportation-HUD bill this week. We hoped to see some relief for our struggling communities.

But sadly, this bill falls short. It fails to adequately fund project-based section 8 rental assistance for low-income families. That means over 1.2 million families, Mr. Chairman, would be at risk of losing their homes. These are primarily seniors, families with children, and people with disabilities, including many who are in the great Hoosier State in my district.

The bill cuts homeless assistance grants, leaving an estimated 25,000 people without the assistance they need to get back on their feet. It entirely eliminates the Choice Neighborhoods program. In Indianapolis, we need these funds to rebuild blighted public housing projects, improve economic development and job opportunities in surrounding neighborhoods for low-income families.

It also eliminates the Sustainable Communities, which coordinates Federal, State and local public housing investments, helping communities make the best with limited funding.

I also want to add that I plan to strongly oppose any amendment that makes it harder to enforce the Fair Housing Act. Congress should not restrict HUD's work to end housing discrimination, intentional or unintentional.

These cuts, Mr. Chairman, strike at the very heart of what my constituents care about, having a stable place for their families to live and stay.

Over the last several months, Mr. Chairman, there has been one topic we have all agreed on, transportation projects equal jobs. Now, sadly, this bill defunds some of our most important job-creating programs. It eliminates funding for TIGER grants, which have put thousands of people to work across this country. My district received one of these grants to construct our great cultural trail. Many of my constituents worked to construct this trail, and today it is absolutely revitalizing neighborhoods and growing businesses and creating long-term job opportunities.

This bill also eliminates funding for high-speed rail, which early estimates predict could have created thousands of jobs in the great Hoosier State. Now, of course, there are other issues; but there are too many to name at this time.

But in talking today, Mr. Chairman, I simply want to express my disappointment. This week we are finally considering the one bill each year that must address top priorities for all Americans, jobs and housing. Instead, we're cutting programs.

My question to these people is, Mr. Chairman, and those obstructionists, what are you expecting our communities to do?

These are programs that work. They employ our constituents, Mr. Chairman, and they also improve our society.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Booker Thomas, who has capably served as President and CEO of HealthNet, Inc. for well over a decade, on his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Thomas has devoted his entire distinguished career to public health and public safety in predominantly poor and urban neighborhoods in cities across the Midwest. As

President and CEO of HealthNet, Inc., Mr. Thomas oversaw a dramatic expansion resulting in the establishment of seven primary care centers, two specialty care centers, and eight school-based clinics in order to better serve low-income Hoosiers throughout Indianapolis.

Today, HealthNet provides medical care to 50,000 Hoosiers and is the state's largest Federally Qualified Health Center. Under his leadership, HealthNet has garnered numerous accolades including the Joint Commission's prestigious Gold Seal of Approval. His exceptional leadership has positioned HealthNet as a community staple, ensuring that those most at risk in the 7th District will continue to have access to high-quality medical care.

Since his arrival to the 7th Congressional District of Indiana, Mr. Thomas has been actively engaged in efforts to improve scholastic performance. As a board member of Indianapolis-based non-profit Learning Well, thousands of students have benefited from improvements in their health, well-being and academic performance. I applaud him for his devotion to our community.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Booker Thomas for being an outstanding community partner, and for the exemplary effort and passion he has brought to improving access to health care in the 7th District of Indiana. I wish him the very best in his retirement.