Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5712, the ``Close the Contractor Fraud Loophole Act.''

The name of this bill really says it all. Today, as I speak, there is a loophole in Government procurement regulations that allows some contractors to avoid reporting violations of Federal law or overpayments.

The privilege--and, yes, it's a privilege--of earning Federal dollars carries with it certain responsibilities. One of those responsibilities is to do your utmost to avoid fraud, violations of law, and overpayments. Now, I understand that many large contractors have thousands of employees, and sometimes there can be a bad apple. But when a contractor learns of such a bad apple, it is its responsibility to report what it learns to the Government, and to make the Government whole for any loss.

Today, most contractors working in the United States are required by regulation to do just this. But contractors working overseas, and a few here in the U.S., fall outside this simple, commonsense reporting requirement.

This is not right--contractors accepting Federal dollars should be treated the same, whether they are performing the work in the United States or overseas, and regardless of whether they are selling ``commercial items.''

I want to commend Mr. Welch and Chairman Waxman for recognizing this problem, and for doing something about it. Now that they have acted, the administration says that this loophole was a ``bureaucratic mistake'' and should be closed. Yet, before Congress moved, the administration was curiously slow to do anything to address this ``mistake.''

My committee has devoted a lot of time and energy to examining the Department of Homeland Security's contracting practices. What we have found is not always pretty. The Department is young, and has made some poor contracting decisions. But poor decisionmaking and the occasional inexperienced contracting officer is not a license for abuse, and it is incumbent on any contractor who discovers such abuse to report it.

I hope the administration makes good on its word and closes this loophole, but I'm mindful that it took congressional oversight and action to stir them into action. This is oversight at it best, and make no mistake, our oversight--of both the Government and the contractors themselves--will continue. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this rule. Every day the valiant men and women of the United States Coast Guard save lives and protect the welfare of our great country. And every day the Coast Guard lives its motto and stands always ready to help those in need.

Since the devastating attacks of September 11, 2001, the Coast Guard has taken on the enhancement role in homeland security. Yet the President has consistently submitted budgets that fail to give the Coast Guard adequate resources to execute all its missions. Now it's our turn to help them.

The legislation to be considered today, H.R. 2830, funds the Coast Guard at $8.4 billion, $200 million over the President's budget. It also increases the Coast Guard in strength to 47,000 by adding 1,500 new members. The bill authorizes additional maritime security response teams to provide anti-terrorism protection for strategic shipping, high-interest vessels, and other critical infrastructure. These teams are the Coast Guard's quick response force. They can be deployed rapidly anywhere in the Nation via air, ground, or sea to respond to changing threat conditions.

H.R. 2830, Mr. Speaker, also authorizes additional K-9 detection teams to detect explosives, drugs, and smuggled persons.

Additionally, this bill authorizes the Waterway Watch program, a nationwide initiative modeled after Neighborhood Watch programs, to allow fishermen, recreational boaters, and others who work or play on American waterways to notify the Coast Guard of suspicious activities.

Since 9/11, the Coast Guard has struggled to develop much-needed port security regulations, including those mandated by the Safe Ports Act, such as long-range vessel tracking and enhanced crew member identification. H.R. 2830 address this critical gap and others by creating a dedicated assistant commandant for port and waterway security to oversee port security measures.

With respect to liquefied gas terminals, the bill requires the Coast Guard to protect and enforce the security zones around all existing LNG facilities. Admiral Allen himself has acknowledged, Mr. Speaker, to Congress that when it comes to the proliferation of LNG facilities, he doesn't have the resources necessary to fulfill the Coast Guard's port security responsibilities.

That allows, Mr. Speaker, the Coast Guard to partner with the State and local entities to protect the security zones around LNG facilities.

Last, and certainly not least, Mr. Speaker, the improvements that the bill makes in the Deepwater program. In the future, there will be contract managers at the Coast Guard that know their job and never again will the Coast Guard be in the absurd position of accepting boats that don't float.

I urge a ``yes'' on the rule and on the underlying bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4056 which provides Congress the ability to recognize and honor the dedicated men and women in Federal law enforcement who risk their lives and welfare daily while performing necessary and often hazardous duties.

There are thousands of Federal Law Enforcement Officers, FLEOs, including those that bravely serve in the Department of Homeland Security. Of these thousands, some are injured in the course of duty. I want to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to these individuals, especially given the difficult task they have of enforcing our laws and protecting our way of life.

In the Department of Homeland Security alone, countless FLEOs serve to protect the Nation from harm at our borders and ports of entry as well as our financial, cyber and transportation systems. On a daily basis, these individuals work diligently, often apprehending or detaining people suspected of criminal offenses, even if it means putting themselves in harm's way. Their work is absolutely necessary to the security and well-being of our country and it should be properly acknowledged.

While measures exist to award military personnel and State and local officers for their sacrifices, currently only 2 out of the more than 70 Federal agencies recognize their own valiant FLEOs. Therefore, it is imperative that Congress address and highlight the value of these distinguished men and women by establishing a Congressional Badge of Bravery. I urge all my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, It is my pleasure to be here today to honor the employees of the Department of Homeland Security. As we mark the Department's fifth anniversary, we must keep in mind that it is the people of the Department who make the sacrifices to keep us all safe.

Five years ago, this new Department was created and charged with the crucial mission of protecting and securing our homeland. This was not an easy task in the wake of the September 11th attacks. Hurricane Katrina demonstrated that this was a broader mission than the Department's leadership initially thought. However, despite the challenges before them, the employees of the Department have remained focused on ensuring the security of all Americans.

We talk about the activities of TSA or FEMA or CBP. What sometimes gets lost in the discussion are the individuals behind the acronyms. The people of DHS deserve our praise and our gratitude. They include the Customs and Border Protection Officers who man our ports-of-entry; the Federal Air Marshals who, everyday, sit through the same flight delays that so frustrate the American public to do their part to keep the flying public secure; FEMA teams who trek selflessly into disaster zones to help those in need; and support personnel such as contracting officers, administrative assistants, technical support teams without whom the folks on the front lines could not do their jobs.

I could go on, but my time is limited and I think my point is clear. All the men and women of the Department deserve to be recognized for 5 years of hard work. They work nights, weekends, and holidays. They put their life on the line to secure our country from all manner of threats. Today, we are here to extend a hard-earned and much deserved ``Thank You.''

As Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, it is an honor for me to stand here today in support of this resolution. I have, at times, been critical of the Department's management. But I want to be very clear: my criticism of the Department's management should in no way be construed as a lack of appreciation for the individuals who are making daily sacrifices to secure our Nation.

I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring these ``everyday heroes.''

Mr. Chairman, I would rise today in strong support of the underlying bill which reauthorizes one of the most effective agencies in the Department of Homeland Security. H.R. 4847 provides $70 million annually to the Fire Administration through 2012 to ensure long-term funding stability for this critical agency.

I would like to thank the gentleman from Arizona, Mr. Mitchell, and the chairman of the Science and Technology Committee, Mr. Gordon, for their leadership on this issue and for working with me to bring this legislation to the floor today.

Mr. Chairman, the statistics are sobering. Every year, over 100 firefighters die in the line of duty. In 2005, the National Fire Protection Association reported 3,675 civilian deaths, nearly 18,000 civilian fire injuries, and over $10 billion in direct losses due to fire. The United States Fire Administration plays a critical leadership role in leading local fire departments to dramatically reduce these numbers.

Mr. Chairman, I, along with all of the other speakers who have come before you in support of this legislation, encourage its passage.

Mr. Chairman, today I rise in support of the amendment offered by my good friend, a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, Mr. Pascrell. The gentleman from Paterson, New Jersey, is a leader on the committee and in Congress on first responder issues.

As a former volunteer firefighter and graduate of the Mississippi Fire Academy, I understand that many firefighters are unable to travel to the National Fire Academy's campus in Maryland to partake in training. The Fire Academy recognizes this need. By harnessing technology, the Fire Academy partners with existing local and State training academies to reach more first responders.

The Pascrell amendment addresses one key area of training: terrorism response training. Specifically, the amendment seeks to ensure that fire service personnel get training on response tactics and strategies for dealing with ``terrorist-caused national catastrophes and incidents that involve weapons of mass destruction.'' Such incidents can be very complex and require response from many public safety agencies across multiple jurisdictions.

Today, the Fire Academy has a terrorism curriculum in place. The Pascrell amendment will ensure this continuation.

It has been nearly 7 years since the attacks of 9/11, and, thankfully, we have not been attacked since. However, Mr. Chairman, the threat is still very real. As Members of Congress, it's our collective responsibility to ensure that responders in our communities are fully trained, equipped, and staffed to answer the question call.

Once again, I encourage my colleagues to support the Pascrell amendment as well as the underlying bill.

Madam Speaker, today, I am proud to introduce the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Act of 2008, which was marked up and reported favorably by the Committee on Homeland Security on March 6, 2008.

This bill will extend and strengthen the Department of Homeland Security's current authority to regulate security practices at our Nation's chemical facilities. This legislation must be enacted to ensure that there is no lapse in our efforts to protect the Nation's chemical infrastructure from the threat of terrorism. The Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards regulations currently in effect will sunset in October 2009. The passage of this legislation is needed to update and improve those regulations and to make them permanent.

Shielding the Nation's critical infrastructure from foreign and domestic terrorism is one of my eight goals in charting the course toward freedom from fear. As I see it, extending DHS's authority to regulate chemical security is the right thing to do, and this legislation does it the right way.

For 4 months, the committee undertook a bipartisan effort to develop this legislation. There were extensive discussions with the Department, the chemical industry, including both large and small chemical manufacturers, fertilizer manufacturers, petroleum and propane manufacturers and distributors, water and wastewater facilities, environmental groups, labor organizations, State Governments, and academic and independent experts. The legislation I am introducing today with every Democratic Member of the Committee on Homeland Security is the product of this open, bipartisan process.

Given this effort, where the ranking member of the full committee and Transportation Security and Infrastructure Protection were involved in every aspect of this legislation, I was very disappointed that the Republican Members, with few exceptions, chose partisanship over progress and voted against the bill. The disagreement that was cited was over whether all regulated chemical facilities, or just a subset, should be required to assess whether or not they could incorporate practices to reduce the consequences of a terrorist attack in their processes. For the record, the bill requires only facilities assigned to a risk-based tier to undertake such an assessment. This is done to decrease the likelihood of a potential attack in the first place. That's just plain sensible.

This legislation does not seek to reinvent the wheel, as the Democratic Members of this committee believe that the fundamental approach taken under the existing chemical security regulations is the correct one. At the same time, the bill seeks to make several improvements to the program after the sunset expires. For instance, the current chemical security regulations exempt water treatment facilities regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act and port facilities regulated under the Maritime Transportation Security Act. This bill does not have such an exemption and calls for the CFATS to work smoothly with the existing authorities. Testimony by the Department at previous hearings before this committee demonstrated that facilities with the exemption possess the same chemicals and are as proximate to major metropolitan areas as the currently regulated facilities. The testimony revealed there is no rational public policy reason to exempt them from the chemical security regime.

The bill also recognizes that water facilities need to be treated differently than other facilities. That is why we included provisions to require that the Secretary must provide funding for those that are required to implement inherently safer technology, IST. The bill also bars the Secretary from issuing any order or guidance under these regulations that contravenes laws, such as the Safe Drinking Water Act, and restricts the Secretary from enforcing ``cease operations'' orders against water facilities unless their operation represents a clear and present danger to homeland security. The provisions are intended to ensure that this legislation will not cause water to be less safe for communities.

The bill also protects the rights of States to pass their own regulations to secure chemical facilities so long as they do not directly conflict with this legislation; requires employee training and involvement of employees and their representatives in creating vulnerability assessments and security plans; creates strong whistleblower protections, and protects against illegitimate use of background checks.

I know that once this bill leaves this committee, there will be an effort to weaken it. I hope, however, that Congress will not allow narrow interests to interfere with the national security imperative of securing our chemical sector from terrorists. Only through the comprehensive approach laid out in this bill will we address our Nation's current vulnerability to a massive chemical attack using our own infrastructure against us. Exempting some facilities will make us less safe because those facilities, by their exemption, could become more likely to be attacked.

I hope that Congress will do the right thing to deliver to the American people freedom from fear of such a chemical attack by moving forward expeditiously to pass this legislation and make it law.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 971, Expressing the sympathies and support of the House of Representatives for the individuals and institutions affected by the powerful tornados that struck communities in Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee on February 5th, 2008. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families that have experienced the loss of loved ones caused by these tornados. This resolution is important, as it communicates to those affected that Congress is here to do all that it can to help rebuild and restore our damaged communities.

While my district was not affected this time by the tornados on February 5, other communities throughout the State of Mississippi were. And as you know, my State has been no stranger to experiencing disasters. In fact, we are still recovering from the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina and empathize with what the affected communities are experiencing.

We know that after a disaster has occurred, the recovery and rebuilding effort of our communities takes time. And when Federal, State and local governments work efficiently and effectively to provide resources to our communities in a timely fashion, the rebuilding effort moves along more smoothly.

As the chairman of the committee with oversight of the Department of Homeland Security, DHS, of which FEMA is a part, our committee works diligently to ensure that DHS is prepared to respond to all disasters-- whether they be natural disaster or acts of terrorism. As communities are working hard to recover from the damage caused by the tornados, the committee will closely monitor the responsiveness of FEMA and ensure that the communities affected will receive the assistance that they need to rebuild housing, public facilities and critical infrastructure.

In closing, let me thank my colleague Representative Bart Gordon along with my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for their leadership on this resolution. It is our hope that the rebuilding effort will soon begin, communities will be repaired and that families will begin to heal and return to normalcy.

I encourage my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 954) honoring the life of senior Border Patrol agent Luis A. Aguilar, who lost his life in the line of duty near Yuma, Arizona, on January 19, 2008, as amended.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on this resolution and include therein any extraneous material.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of House Resolution 954, honoring senior Border Patrol agent Luis A. Aguilar, who lost his life in the line of duty near Yuma, Arizona, on January 19, 2008.

I would also like to thank Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren, a member of the Committee on Homeland Security, for introducing this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, on January 19, 2008, Agent Aguilar was working with fellow

Border Patrol agents to secure a suspected narcotics smuggler in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreational Area when he was struck and killed by the suspected smuggler's vehicle as it fled into Mexico.

A native of El Paso, Texas, Agent Aguilar had been assigned to the Yuma Border Patrol station since joining the Border Patrol in July 2002. He was just 32 years old at the time of his death.

Agent Aguilar is survived by his wife, Erica; his children, Luis and Arianna; his father, Luis Aguilar, Sr.; his sister, Angie; and his Border Patrol brother, senior Border Patrol agent, Marco Antonio Aguilar.

Sadly, Mr. Speaker, Agent Aguilar's mother, Cecilia Silva, recently passed away after her son's tragic death.

We're here to honor Agent Aguilar, a young man who's made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the sovereign borders of the United States and make America more secure.

The mission of the U.S. Border Patrol is to control the nearly 6,000 miles of land border between ports of entry with Mexico and Canada, and the coastal waters around Florida and Puerto Rico.

The death of Agent Aguilar serves as a stark reminder of the risks our front-line agents and officers face each day as they serve as the guardians of our Nation's land borders.

As chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, I've been to the southern border on a number of occasions. I've witnessed firsthand the dedication of the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol, often under difficult and dangerous conditions. They work long hours, often late into the night, in extreme heat and cold.

Like Agent Aguilar, they are our Nation's last line of defense against would-be terrorists, drug traffickers and others who would seek to enter this Nation illegally. Agent Aguilar's contribution to our Nation's security deserves this recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring senior Border Patrol Agent Luis Aguilar in his service to our Nation, and offer my deepest condolences to the family.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Grijalva).

Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers at this time, and I am prepared to close if Mr. Davis is prepared, also.

Mr. Speaker, might I inquire as to the time remaining.

Thank you very much. I continue to reserve, Mr. Speaker. I have no other speakers.

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

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution to recognize the life of senior Agent Luis Aguilar. The loss of Agent Aguilar not only leaves a big hole in the Border Patrol organization but in the lives of his family.

I'd like to express again my sincere condolences and urge passage of this important resolution.

Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 954, a resolution honoring the life and career of Senior Border Patrol Agent Luis A. Aguilar who on January 19, 2008 lost his life at the young age of 32 in the line of duty near Yuma, Arizona.

A native of my district of El Paso, Texas, Agent Aguilar began his career with the United States Border Patrol on July 21, 2002 after attending the 519th Session of the Border Patrol Academy. Upon graduation, Agent Aguilar was assigned to the Yuma Border Patrol Sector in Arizona.

On the day of Aguilar's tragic death, he was trying to deflate the tires of a Hummer being driven by a suspected narcotics smuggler who was attempting to flee back to Mexico across the Imperial Sand Dunes. The suspect accelerated while swerving and struck Agent Aguilar who was unable to move from the path of the vehicle. Injuries sustained by the impact caused the tragic loss of Agent Aguilar.

Chief Border Patrol Agent Chief David V. Aguilar posthumously awarded Agent Aguilar the Border Patrol's Purple Cross. This medal is one of the highest honors bestowed on an agent and is awarded to those who have sustained life-threatening injuries or have been killed in the line of duty.

I offer my deepest condolences to his wife, Erica and his children, Luis and Arianna. I would also like to ask that the House take a moment to morn the loss of Agent Aguilar's mother, Cecilia Silva, who just last week lost her fight with cancer. To his father, Luis Aguilar, your son was a hero in my eyes and the eyes of many across the nation.

Agent Aguilar committed his life to his job, and his family showed immense courage in supporting him and his mission. As a former Border Patrol agent myself, I know firsthand the dangers that an agent faces while protecting America's frontlines. Aguilar's dedication to his nation should be acknowledged, and today I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Agent Aguilar for his service.

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

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 866, a resolution commending the dedicated men and women of the Coast Guard on their remarkable drug interdiction efforts, which have resulted in the record seizure of 355,755 pounds of cocaine, valued at more than $4.7 billion.

Embodying its motto of Semper Paratus or ``Always Ready'', the Coast Guard has used improved information-sharing and intelligence to anticipate and combat smuggling, piracy and other threats before they reach America's shores. For example, in September, the Coast Guard stopped a vessel loaded with 3,600 gallons of cocaine dissolved in diesel fuel. This liquid cocaine could have been converted into 15,800 pounds of pure cocaine. Earlier last year, the Coast Guard made its largest maritime cocaine seizure when it intercepted a Panamanian vessel carrying approximately 20 tons of the drug.

Since the tragic events of 9/11, the Coast Guard's mission has taken on increased significance, as they have added critical homeland security responsibilities to their traditional missions. As chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I am well acquainted with the extraordinary job the Coast Guard does in fulfilling these missions on behalf of our Nation. H. Res. 866 affirms our appreciation for the valiant members of the United States Coast Guard, who risk their lives every day to rescue and protect the American people and preserve the Nation's security. I encourage my

colleagues to join me in supporting this important legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak in support of Department of Homeland Security FY 2008 Appropriations Bill which is part of the larger omnibus spending package, Amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 2764. Specifically, I want to note that the Democrats have done a better job at funding key homeland security programs, but as always, more needs to be done.

As the first Democratic chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I am happy to note that the appropriated dollars will go a long way to implementing the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission which are codified in a bill I had the distinct honor of developing and steering toward passage--the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007, P.L. 110-53. I am also glad that the fiscal year 2008 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security are fairly consistent with my eight-point plan--the ``Real Deal on Homeland Security.'' This 8-point plan is what I have used to develop key legislative and oversight initiatives aimed at ensuring that ours is a Nation that can flourish free from fear. In particular, the fiscal year 2008 appropriations reflect the Real Deal in the following way:

1. Improving the Functionality, Governance, and Accountability of the

Department of Homeland Security

The Department of Homeland Security FY 2008 appropriations bill provides $28.49 million for the Chief Procurement Officer which is $11.5 million above the enacted fiscal year 2007 level. This increase funding can help the office attract and retain experienced staff to manage procurements. The bill also provides a $108.7 million for the Office of Inspector General at the Department of Homeland Security, $6 million above the enacted fiscal year 2007 level. It is also notable that the bill's Joint Explanatory Statement makes clear that Congress favors contracts awarded by full and open competition. The bill also acknowledges the operation of the Small Business Act and therefore does not adversely affect the award of contracts to small, minority and disadvantaged businesses. In addition, the bill requires the Inspector General to review contracts awarded by means other than full and open competition to determine compliance with the law. Finally, I am very pleased that the bill provides no funding for MAX-HR but rather provides $10 million for the Department of Homeland Security to address the issues revealed in the 2006 Federal Human Capital Survey. The bill further requires the Secretary to submit an expenditure plan for the $10 million prior to the obligation of the funds.

However, I must point out that the Committee on Homeland Security was disappointed with the decision not to fund the relocation of the headquarters for the Department of Homeland Security at the St. Elizabeths site in Washington, DC.

2. Enhancing Security for All Modes of Transportation

I applaud the bill which provides over $4.5 billion to enhance aviation security. That funding makes the bill consistent with meeting aviation security mandates in P.L. 110-53. For example, the bill fully funds the Aviation Security Capitol Fund at $250 million. Furthermore, this bill provides $15 million for a pilot program to screen 100 percent of airport workers.

Although the bill does not provide sufficient resources to implement the authorization levels in P.L. 110-53, the Appropriations Committee has provided the foundation to reach that goal. For example, the bill provides $400 million in Public Transportation and Railroad Security Grants. This includes not less than $25 million for Amtrak, $11.5 million over the road bus security grants, and $16 million for trucking security grants. This is in contrast to the authorized amount in P.L. 110-53 which called for $650 million for public transit, $300 million for rail, and $150 million for Amtrak.

I also support the bill's provision of $523.5 million for information technology and intelligence for transportation security and the increased funding for Red Teams at $6.26 million--a 50 percent increase over the enacted level of fiscal year 2007. Finally, the bill provides $46 million for surface transportation security, an increase from the $41.4 million enacted in fiscal year 2007. Of the proposed amount for fiscal year 2008, $24.5 million is for staffing and operations, $22.1 million is for inspectors and canines, and another $30 million is provided for security training program, transportation risk assessment, and the development of regulation for name-based immigration screening for public transportation and rail workers.

3. Response, Resilience, and Recovery in the Wake of a National

Catastrophe

I am pleased that key programs to assist first responders and State, local, and tribal governments have been funded above the President's request. Specifically, the State Homeland Security Grant Program which provides grants to first responders in all 50 States and U.S. Territories to help them prevent, prepare for, and respond to an act of terrorism or other emergency is funded at $950 million. The Urban Area Security Initiative, which addresses the unique planning, operations, equipment, training, and exercise needs of high-threat, high-density urban areas, is funded at $820 million--a $50 million increase in funding over FY 2007 levels.

The bill also provides $41 million for the Metropolitan Medical Response System, MMRS; $300 million for Emergency Management Performance Grant, EMPG, program; $560 million for FIRE grants; $190 million for the SAFER Act program; and $32.5 million for the Urban Search and Rescue System, USAR, a $7.5 million increase over the enacted level in fiscal year 2007.

I also support the bill for directing FEMA to assist communities by ensuring disaster preparedness and response education materials are developed and distributed to children. The bill also supports the Office of the Disabilities Coordinator and directs the Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General to investigate FEMA's policies and processes regarding formaldehyde in trailers purchased by the agency to house disaster victims in the office created by the Post- Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006.

I will note, however, that it is unfortunate that the splintered oversight jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security has resulted in the inclusion of section 541 of the bill which states that ``none of the funds provided by this or previous appropriations Acts shall be used to fund any position designated as a Principal Federal Official, PFO, for any Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act declared disasters or emergencies.'' I am very concerned that this language micromanages Federal emergency response through the appropriation process, interferes with the writing of the National Response Framework which aims to clarify the role of the PFO and does not recognize the situations where the appointment of PFO would be necessary, public health emergencies, cyber attacks, etc. Simply stated, this

language unnecessarily reopens a policy question that was settled in the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006.

4. Shielding the Nation's Critical Infrastructure from Foreign and

Domestic Terrorism

I commend the $50 million appropriated for chemical security. The bill also includes preemption language that supports States that have stronger law as it relates to the security of chemical facilities. In addition, the bill directs the Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure Protection to provide semi-annual briefings to the Appropriations Committee on implementing the National Infrastructure Protection Plan. I, too, look forward to being included in such briefing. The bill also provides $10 million for the Office of Bombing Prevention, a legislative initiative from the Committee on Homeland Security, H.R. 4749, with the requirement that the office will develop a national strategy on bombing prevention.

5. Securing the Homeland and Preserving Civil Liberties in Times of

Terror

I believe strongly that civil liberties guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution need not be compromised to make the Nation more secure. One particular area of concern was the Department of Homeland Security's attempt to skirt congressional oversight by developing and implementing a spy satellite program. After I demanded answers about the program's reach, the Department modified its spy satellite plans. Going forward, the Committees on Homeland Security, Budget, and Appropriations should closely examine the Department's authority to ensure transparency and accountability.

6. Connecting the Dots: Intelligence Information Sharing and

Interoperability

I am very pleased that the bill includes $50 million to fund the Interoperability Emergency Communications Grant Program which was enacted in P.L. 110-53 and provides for improved emergency communications capabilities for first responders. Also, the bill includes $35.7 million for the Office of Emergency Communications, an $18.7 million increase over the enacted fiscal year 2007. The office, which was established in April 2007, pursuant to the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006, is the focal point within the Federal Government to improve national interoperable communication capabilities.

7. Implementing Commonsense Border and Port Security

I believe that border and port security must reflect the Nation's commitment to facilitating the flow of commerce and demanding accountability from our Government. That is why we cannot allow fear to drive the discussion of building fences that may wind up disrupting commerce or poor governmental planning that leads to Government waste. I commend the appropriator's for providing $2 million reimbursement to the Defense Acquisition University for a review of Secure Border Initiative procurement; $60 million for reimbursement of State and local law enforcement agencies in U.S.-Mexico border communities; and $225 million for the extension of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. We must remember that border security is fundamentally a Federal responsibility and that we should not pass unfunded mandates to State and local governments that will be burdened by bad public policy.

I am especially pleased that the appropriations bill provides $475 million for U.S.-VISIT along with report language that makes clear that at least $13 million is to be used to develop an exit system. The provision also requires a schedule for implementing the exit program. Under my chairmanship, the Committee on Homeland Security has held several hearings examining the exit aspect of the US-VISIT. In fact, on September 5, 2007, I called on Secretary Chertoff to implement the US- VISIT air exit by the end of the calendar year 2008. Simply put, it is folly to speak of security if we rely on a process that tells us who comes into the country but cannot verify if or when individuals leave the country.

Other commonsense border security measures in the fiscal year 2008 appropriations bill include the language that amend current law by requiring consultation with the Secretaries of Agriculture and Interior, States, local land owners, and tribes; authorizing programs to study the modernization of ports-of-entry. I also commend the bill's inclusion of $36 million for the implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization program--a provision that I promoted in P.L. 110- 53. One particular area that reflects sound policy is language that provides ``law enforcement officer'', LEO, status and retirement benefits to Customs and Border Protection officers in order to enhance recruitment and retention. I was pleased to advocate the LEO status during the Committee of Homeland Security's consideration of H.R. 1684, the ``Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008.'' We must do all that we can to retain our trained staff who are the eyes and ears along this Nation's vast borders.

I also note that the bill prohibits the use of funds for the planning, testing, piloting, or development of a national ID card and directs CBP to brief the Appropriations committees no later than Jan. 31, 2008 on how it is using the Workload Staffing Model to allocated staffing resources.

With regard to port security, I commend the appropriators for requiring improved oversight of the Deepwater Program which is funded at $783 million. Under my chairmanship, the Committee on Homeland Security has closely examined and demanded accountability over Deepwater, particularly in H.R. 2830, the U.S. Coast Guard Reauthorization Act and the SAFE Port Act, P.L. 109-347. Other notable funding is the $2 million for LNG and dangerous cargo suitability assessments; the $3.1 million to develop and finalize SAFE Port Act rulemakings; and the $60 million for Interagency Operational Centers for Port Security, a requirement from the SAFE Port Act; and $400 million for port security grants.

I note that the appropriation's bill requires the Transportation Security Administration, TSA and Coast Guard to work closely with terminal operators, local port police, and other law enforcement agencies to develop the operational procedures to ensure the effective implementation of the Transportation Worker Identification Card, TWIC program. I am concerned, however, that while the bill directs TSA to work with the appropriate officials of Florida and other port authorities to resolve differences between TWIC and the State's transportation facility access control programs, the requirement maybe interpreted as indicating that the Federal TWIC program does not pre- empt the Florida program. This is very troubling and counterproductive.

Finally, the bill appropriates $13 million for the CBP's Global Trade Exchange, GTX. CBP recently announced the Request for Quotations for the Global Trade Exchange 1 despite significant criticism from industry concerning the lack of transparency with this new initiative. I am concerned that the Department has not fully developed this initiative and that it is premature to fund it until the Department has provided the Committee of Homeland Security and industry with a more in-depth analysis of this new pilot.

8. Inspiring Minds and Developing Technology--The Future of Homeland

Security

I am very concerned about the emerging threats of a chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological attack. As chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security, I will continue to conduct oversight into this area to ensure that there is improved coordination between the Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services and State, local, and Tribal governments. I recognize that the appropriation's bill does not provide a large amount of funding for pandemic flu due to the fact that the Department of Health and Human Services has $1.2 billion in unobligated funds from fiscal year 2007.

I am pleased that the bill provides $116.5 million to the Office of Health Affairs and includes a provision that would allow agricultural inspectors to stay at CBP and the Transportation Security Lab to recoup fees for testing. With regard to the threat of a cyber security attack, the bill provides $125 million for the Chief Information Officer to improve information technology security at the Department of Homeland Security--a much needed act.

I am also glad that the appropriators support the development of technology and the future minds in the field homeland security. For example, the bill provides that the Science and Technology Directorate will be appropriated at $830 million and funds the Third Generation Bio Watch at $5.8 million. The bill also provides $325 million for research and development. With regard to university programs, the bill provides $49.3 million for fiscal year 2008. This amount includes $4 million for the Transportation Security Center of Excellence. While that is far shy of the $18 million authorized in P.L. 110-53, the Committee on Homeland Security remains optimistic that appropriators will support the Centers of Excellence as they are the training grounds for future homeland security experts.

The $455 million appropriated to the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, DNDO, and $90 million for the Radiation Portal Monitor program is critical to tracking loose nuclear weapons. However, I am very concerned, like the appropriators, that there has not yet been certification by the DHS Secretary of Advanced Spectroscopic Portal, ASP, radiation monitors. We must push out the boundaries of technology if we are going to have 21st century security.

In closing, I would like to thank the appropriators for funding the vital programs that are critical to securing the Nation. As chairman of the authorizing committee, I will vigilantly monitor the Department of Homeland Security to ensure that it is drawing on the diverse talents of its experts to ensure that it is providing the American people security, accountability, and freedom from fear.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Ray Brooks High School for winning the Mississippi Class 1A State Football Championship. The Ray Brooks Tigers completed the 2007 season amassing 13 victories and only 1 loss. This State Championship is their second in 3 years.

Benoit is a small town in the Mississippi Delta, as of the 2000 census there were 611 residents. As a matter of fact, Ray Brooks is one of the smallest high schools in the State of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, although Benoit may be small in population; it has no shortcomings in regards to its high school football team.

What makes this feat more impressive is the fact that Ray Brooks didn't have a football program for 15 years until 2002. The Tigers have been in the playoffs each of the last 6 years they have been back on the football field. During this 6-year period, the tigers have been phenomenal going 62-13 since restarting their football program.

Madam Speaker, not only have the Tigers enjoyed success this year but, they have done so dominantly averaging 35.4 points per game during the regular season while only allowing 9.9 points per game this season. Three wins came by the way of a shutout.

Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the student-athletes, student-body, faculty, staff, administration, and the community of West Bolivar for winning the 2007 Mississippi Class 1A State Championship. I am extremely proud to represent these young men and I look forward to the 2008 season.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my support for the House Amendments to Senate Amendment to H.R. 2764-- State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2008, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008. Specifically, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight and clarify language included in Division E, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2008 regarding the Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate.

Farmers who use ammonium nitrate in agriculture production normally obtain their ammonium nitrate from a retail fertilizer dealership. Any retail fertilizer dealership that stores and sells ammonium nitrate would have to register under this legislation. The intent of this legislation is ``track and trace''--to provide law enforcement officials with the ability to know where ammonium nitrate is being stored and the establishment of a pre-screening process before a person can take possession of ammonium nitrate.

Retail fertilizer dealerships provide many services for farmers and one of those services is custom application. Many farmers that buy fertilizer never physically take possession of ammonium nitrate. The farmer purchases the services of the dealer who spreads the ammonium nitrate on the farmer's field. These custom application services can be provided by other businesses that would be subject to the registration requirements of the legislation.

In Mississippi and southeastern United States, nearly 90 percent of the 41,800 tons of ammonium nitrate purchased is applied by a fertilizer dealer or applicator company to the field. Only 10 percent of the ammonium nitrate fertilizer purchased in the southeastern United States is ever under the direct control and possession of the farm customer.

It is not the intent of this legislation to require individuals that use custom application services and do not take possession of ammonium nitrate to be subject to be registered. I believe this bill will enhance the security surrounding ammonium nitrate in agriculture and ammonium nitrate will be kept out of the hands of would-be terrorists.

I also ask that a letter submitted by The Fertilizer Institute (TFI), in support of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2008, be inserted in the Congressional Record.

Again, I support this legislation that reduces the risk that large quantities of ammonium nitrate could fall into the wrong hands while ensuring access for agriculture professionals and farmers who use this fertilizer for legitimate purposes.

The Fertilizer Institute,

Washington, DC, December 17, 2007.

Hon. Bennie Thompson,

Chairman, House Homeland Security Committee, Washington, DC.

Dear Mr. Chairman: On behalf of The Fertilizer Institute

(TFI) and our ammonium nitrate producers and retailers, I am

writing to thank you for your tireless efforts to help secure

passage of the ``Secure Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Act of

2007.''

The goal of TFI and our affected membership has been to

pass legislation that would require traceability of ammonium

nitrate being sold in the United States. By requiring

facilities and individuals who possess ammonium nitrate to

register with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and

keep records of all sales, we believe the security

surrounding ammonium nitrate use in agriculture will be

greatly enhanced and our beneficial product will be kept out

of the hands of those with criminal intent.

Ammonium nitrate in many areas of the country is directly

applied by retail fertilizer dealers or other custom

application businesses. For instance, in many cases, farmers

do not physically possess or control the application of

ammonium nitrate; the dealer maintains custody and applies

the

purchased product directly to the field. TFI believes that

anyone not taking physical possession of ammonium nitrate

should not have to register with DHS as this would be

unnecessary and of no added security benefit when the

facility having possession of ammonium nitrate is required to

register and keep records.

Again, thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Sincerely yours,

Ford B. West,

President.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to salute Job Martin. Job, more widely know as Jobie, was recently recognized as Mississippi's Outstanding Older Worker. At the age of 88, Jobie won the honor for his substitute teaching in Jackson Public Schools. The award was given by Experience Works of Mississippi which is part of a national employment and training organization that selects working men and women above 65 from every State who have made continuous contributions to their community and workplace.

Madam Speaker, not only has Jobie been a hard worker, but he is also a pioneer. Jobie was a well-known disc jockey, eventually becoming known as ``the Loud Mouth of the South.'' Jobie's radio fame paved the way for him to make Mississippi television history. Jobie Martin was Mississippi's first African-American commercial television show host. The Jobie Martin Show hosted many famous guest including Muhammad Ali, B.B. King, Bill Cosby, Joe Louis, and James Earl Jones.

Madam Speaker, Jobie's success was not just limited to mass communication; he was an entrepreneur as well. Jobie operated Jobie's Chicken Restaurant--``where the flavor's locked in and the grease is locked out.'' Located in the historic Lynch Street area, it became a landmark for decades. Later, Martin would open Valerie's, a restaurant named after one of his two children. Martin also became a member of the board of trustees for Hinds Community College.

Jobie Martin has worn many hats in his life--disc jockey, television show host, entrepreneur, and educator. Today, Madam Speaker, I take my hat off to him for his many contributions and continuous service to the State of Mississippi.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the West Bolivar Eagles for completing a perfect season and Winning the Class 2A State championship. This is West Bolivar's fourth State title, but their first since 1906--before any of this year's seniors were born. West Bolivar was ranked No. 1 the entire season by the Clarion-Leggert 2A football poll.

Madam Speaker, West Bolivar High School has a rich football history. Along with four State championships, they have 17 division championships and 5 appearances in State championship games. Over the last 3 seasons the Eagles are 37-4 and have three consecutive Region 3- 2A championships.

Madam Speaker, not only have the Eagles enjoyed success this year, but they have done so dominantly. On the season, the Eagles have outscored their opponents 582-184. In the playoffs, the Eagles have outscored their opponents 177-101. The Eagles have scored 40 or more points 9 times, helping them amass more points that any team in Mississippi 2A football.

Madam Speaker, West Bolivar's recent success has come with the leadership of Coach Henry Johnson. Coach Johnson is a former West Bolivar player who played wide receiver and defensive back on the Eagles' last State finalist team under legendary Rosedale coach Leland Young.

Madam Speaker, one of the traditions that Coach Johnson restored at his alma mater was running up and down a steep Mississippi River levee.

Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the student-athletes, student body, faculty, staff, administration, and the community of West Bolivar for winning the 2007 Mississippi Class 2A State Championship.

Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the life and legacy of Dr. Dennis Frate, a medical anthropologist known for his studies of rural health in the Mississippi Delta.

Dr. Frate was a former pharmacy professor at the University of Mississippi. He worked in the School of Pharmacy from 1980 until 2000. He retired June 30, 2007 as a professor of preventative medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, which is in my Congressional District.

As we are all well aware, rural areas of this country are vastly underserved. Dr. Frate took this problem head-on through the Rural Health Research Program. Dr. Frate served as the coordinator of the Rural Health Research Program and principal investigator of a National Institutes of Health study to develop community-based programs to control high blood pressure in rural populations.

Many of our colleagues here in Congress have espoused the notion of expanding healthcare coverage. Dr. Frate lived it.

It is through community efforts as demonstrated by Dr. Frate that we may be able to achieve a reality of accessible and affordable healthcare for all.

During his 20-plus years of service, Dr. Frate touched the lives of many, proving that even the simplest ideas can make a big difference.

I take great pride in commending the work of Dr. Dennis Frate on a job well done for more than 20 years.