Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate this year's graduates of Sanford Community Adult Education programs in Sanford, Maine. These men and women have worked incredibly hard to earn their GEDs, high school diplomas, and work skills certificates, and I am thrilled to see their efforts come to fruition.

I commend these graduates for having the courage to recommit to their education after months or even years since last stepping in a classroom. Doing so, they have had to deal with a unique set of challenges, including balancing school work with careers and families.

With their education comes opportunity. I am excited about the new doors that will open for these graduates with their diplomas and certificates in hand. I wish them the best of luck as they pursue their goals, whether that is starting a business, getting a promotion, or simply setting a good example for their children.

I also want to thank the teachers and administrators of the program, and all the family members and friends who supported these students. This accomplishment is theirs as well.

Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate the Ogunquit Playhouse--America's Foremost Summer Theatre in Ogunquit, Maine--as they celebrate their 80th Anniversary Season.

Since 1933, the Ogunquit Playhouse has given generations of theatergoers the opportunity to enjoy the finest plays and brightest stars and professional actors, bringing Broadway to the Beach. Their acclaim has continued over the decades. Most recently, they were recently recognized with prestigious Moss Hart Awards for Best Professional Production and Outstanding Achievement as a Theater Company. In addition, the New England Theatre Conference has recognized the Ogunquit Playhouse with their Award for Outstanding Achievement in American Theatre, acknowledging the Playhouse as one of the most important cultural landmarks in New England.

I am proud of the Playhouse's commitment to developing and expanding theater activity in New England on the educational, community and professional levels. They have created an extensive school performance and outreach program as well as partnerships with dozens of social service agencies throughout the region to bring underserved children and families to the Playhouse to enjoy live theater.

They believe--and I believe--that the arts are essential to the quality of life for everyone. As Maine's creative economy grows and receives national attention, America's Foremost Summer Theatre serves as a shining example of success.

I thank my colleague, Mr. Moran, for allowing me to speak and join him with this amendment today.

I rise in support of this amendment, which would prohibit us from using taxpayer money to stock the House cafeterias with polystyrene, or, as most Americans call it, Styrofoam. Maybe to some this seems like a small thing, but stocking our cafeterias with Styrofoam sends a terrible message.

When I was first elected to Congress in 2008, it was such a pleasure to see biodegradable materials in the cafeteria: cardboard containers, paper cups, even bamboo forks--which maybe didn't always work right, but they still were recyclable and biodegradable. We ate out of containers that looked a lot like what we now see in most fast food restaurants.

When the Republicans took control, that instantly changed and we are back to eating from Styrofoam. When my constituents read about it they were, frankly, quite shocked. They couldn't imagine why Congress was moving backwards.

Styrofoam takes hundreds of years to biodegrade and is a suspected carcinogen because of the chemical it leaches into food and liquid. I urge my colleagues to support our amendment to get rid of Styrofoam in the House cafeterias.

Madam Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

I am opposed.

Madam Speaker, every day my colleagues on the other side of the aisle talk about cutting spending. In fact, a fair number of them came here after getting elected by promising to slash wasteful spending and be good stewards of the taxpayer dollars. And they have voted for some pretty big spending cuts.

They cut spending on food stamps, making it harder for struggling families to put a meal on the table. They cut spending on unemployment benefits, making it harder for the millions of Americans who are looking for work to make ends meet. They cut spending on Pell Grants, making it harder for working families to put their kids through college.

But the problem is these cuts my colleagues have passed put the entire burden on working families and seniors who are already struggling to get by and none of it on big oil companies or wealthy money managers. The problem is the burden of spending cuts is not now being shared equally or distributed fairly.

Today, Madam Speaker, I am offering my colleagues a chance to share that burden by cutting our own spending on fancy taxpayer-funded mailings that our constituents don't always want us to send. The amendment I'm offering represents a 10 percent cut in our franking budget. This would mean giving up expensive, glossy, self-promoting mailings and getting back to straight talk to our constituents. Don't get me wrong: Part of our job is communicating with our constituents and letting them know about the work we are doing here in Washington and in our home districts.

In my office, we've designated simple, straightforward mailings in- house to communicate directly with our constituents. We've designed them in-house. We've been able to cut the costs of this communication dramatically but still effectively communicate. In fact, we've recently sent an update to veterans explaining the programs available to them, and two or three constituents have received their lifetime veterans benefits because of that update.

Asking working families to sacrifice and bear the burden of spending cuts while protecting big banks, Big Oil, and congressional perks is one of the reasons our approval rating is at an all-time low.

Madam Speaker, we all agree we need to get budget deficits under control, but asking seniors, young people, and working families to feel the pain while passing tax cuts for the rich, protecting tax breaks for Big Oil, and spending millions of dollars on glossy, self-promoting mailers is unfair, and Americans know it.

If we want the American public to think we can be responsible and serious about cutting wasteful spending, we will pass this amendment today and take a big chunk out of our franking budget.

Let me be clear: this is the final amendment to the bill. It will not kill the bill or send it back to committee. If adopted, the bill will immediately proceed to final passage as amended. And if adopted, the American people might have a little more faith that the people they send to Congress are really serious about cutting wasteful spending, and not just protecting the perks that they think will get them reelected.

I urge you to vote ``yes'' on my final amendment.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

I would like to congratulate a group of students in my district who have earned a national title in their understanding of constitutional issues in a changing world.

Participating in the national round of this year's We the People competition in April, Isabella Burke, Catherine Pouliot, and Samantha Silver of Marshwood High School in South Berwick, Maine, took first place in the unit on ``What challenges might face American constitutional democracy in the twenty-first century?''

I am very proud of the level at which these students performed especially on a question of such importance to our country.

I would also like to congratulate advisor Matt Sanzone and the rest of the Marshwood team for making it to nationals for a fifth year. It is an incredible statement of this school's dedication in teaching students the foundations of American democracy.

Mr. Speaker, I thank both Mr. Grijalva and Mr. Hastings for their support.

I'm very happy to stand in support of my bill, H.R. 2336, the York River Wild and Scenic River Study Act. It is my pleasure to see this piece of legislation, which was proposed by the people living in my district, who care deeply about the York River, come to the floor of the House today. This bill would allow organizations working around the York River to partner with the National Park Service to conduct a study that would provide additional information that is vital to making informed decisions about the future of the York River and its communities.

I have heard from small business owners, community groups, State and local government representatives, local and national land trusts, fishermen, hunters, school representatives, and historical and environmental conservationists; and all agree that continuing to benefit from the river depends on recognizing and protecting its important and unique qualities.

When I last visited the York River, I spoke with members of local communities about the importance of the river to the people, the economy, and the wildlife of the York River water-shed. I learned that the river is home to important and rare species, including the Maine- endangered box turtle and the threatened harlequin duck. The salt marshes of York River watershed serve as a nursery ground for nearly 30 species of fish that are vital to the Gulf of Maine ecosystem.

I also learned that the York River is a key waterway to the history of our Nation. The first English settlers arrived there in 1630, and European settlements of archeological importance have been identified along the banks of the river. The York River is a place where children are learning in an outdoor classroom, as well. Students from nearby school districts gather data from the river for class and to inform community decisions about the environment and the economy. Perhaps the most important factor is that many of the hardworking people in this part of the State depend on the York River to support their jobs. The York River is a place where people go to work.

Commercial and recreational fishing operations depend on excellent water quality and reliable access to the waterfront. Farmers in the York River watershed grow pumpkin, potatoes, and other produce that help keep Maine communities healthy. People travel to the York River to explore and appreciate its natural character and incredible history. And while doing so, they invest in the surrounding communities.

The work of community groups has already resulted in considerable

progress, but the York River needs additional protection so this vital resource is not overwhelmed by increasing development. In order to move forward to a future that protects the most important aspects of this waterway and the jobs and communities that depend on it, it is vital to connect these communities with the information they need. This is the goal and, hopefully, the outcome of this important piece of legislation.

I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill today.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to highlight the outstanding accomplishments of a group of students in my district.

For the last 8 years, the Windplanners of Camden Hills Regional High School have endeavored to bring a full-size wind turbine to their school. What started out as a vision has now become a reality. After conducting feasibility studies, earning the support of their community, raising a half-million dollars, and clearing bureaucratic hurdles, the students erected a 155-foot turbine at their school this spring.

In the first week of operation alone, the turbine generated enough electricity to power six households for a month. Over the years, this project will save their school thousands of dollars, keep hundreds of tons of carbon emissions out of the air, and stand as a tribute to what a committed group can do--whatever their age may be.

I'm very proud of these students and the teachers and community members who have supported them. They have learned real-world lessons that will serve them well--and have taught us all some important lessons in the process.

I thank the ranking member for yielding his time.

Mr. Chairman, the amendment I am sponsoring today sends a loud and clear message to the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

It sends a message that we recognize that the problem of sexual assault in the military is real and significant. It sends a message that the VA should live up to its promise and remove the barriers to benefits for victims. But, most importantly, it sends a message to the survivors.

The men and women I have met with who volunteered to serve were dedicating their lives to military careers when they suddenly found out their worlds were crashing in on them when they became victims of sexual assault. It sends a message to them that we hear them, that we recognize the pain and the injustice they have suffered and that we will not stand for it.

I met with Secretary Panetta recently, and I know he understands this problem and is committed to changing the culture, but we cannot call that good enough. We need to say, in no uncertain terms, that we will not allow the men and women who wear the uniform to become victims of sexual assault and that we will not forget those who waited too long for the benefits they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to recognize the hundreds of brave advocates who are visiting Capitol Hill from Maine and across the country to raise awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease.

They are here today to share their stories, to educate others about the challenges they face, and to make sure that we continue to invest in the critical research and data collection that is essential to finally making a breakthrough in the fight against ALS.

Some are here to advocate on behalf of themselves, and some are here to represent their loved ones, friends, and neighbors--far too many of whom have already been lost to ALS. They are all here to give voice to the many thousands of Americans who suffer from this disease but can't be here in person to speak for themselves.

Because of their efforts, no Member of Congress will be able to say they haven't been touched by this terrible disease. And because of their efforts, I truly believe that one day in the not so distant future we will finally have a cure.

I also want to honor one special individual in particular who had planned to be here today, before he lost his battle with ALS on April 27, 2012 at just 34 years old.

Joshua Kennedy led a life of exemplary service. He served his country bravely as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves, including eighteen months in Iraq as a petroleum supply specialist. He served his family as a devoted husband to his wife Ernesta and a proud father to his sons Tyler, Charles, and Andrew. He served his community in Maine as a correctional officer at Androscoggin County Jail in Auburn. Then after his diagnosis in March 2010, he began to serve his country in a way he never imagined--as a passionate advocate for ALS awareness.

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Josh in my Portland office not long after his diagnosis. I was struck by his compelling story, his warm smile, his love for his family, and his bravery in the face of unbeatable odds. He and Ernesta later traveled to Washington DC, where he brought his message to Congress and inspired action the same way he inspired the community who rallied around him and his family back home. Even as his voice eluded him and his body began to fail him, it was clear that his spirit remained strong.

I had looked forward to seeing him again this year, and his presence is dearly missed today, as it will be for years to come. There are not enough words to appropriately honor his legacy or to comfort his family on their tremendous loss. But I know his advocacy was not in vain. It is because of people like Josh that we are making progress, bit by bit, and I look forward to the day when we can celebrate his memory with a cure for ALS.

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

Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to this amendment.

Mr. Grimm said that he represents an island. I live on an island. I live in the heart of the fisheries in the State of Maine, and I join my colleagues in Maine in supporting this. I'm sorry to see my good friend from Massachusetts is in opposition, but it shows that there are differences in the fisheries. I guarantee you that the fishermen in my State would say this is not to circumvent the law; this is a law that is now working in our State and highly successful. This amendment would block the use of catch shares from managing our Nation's fisheries by superseding the Regional Fishery Management Council process set up by Congress.

I live in the heart of a district where people have lost a tremendous amount of fish and are looking for ways to make sure that they have a fisheries industry to pass along to their children and grandchildren. The sectors management system in Maine has done that; it has allowed innovative fishermen, like members of the Maine Coast Fishermen's Association, to manage their small business in a way that works best for them in their own way of managing it.

By having an allocation and the flexibility to fish on their own schedule--which I can tell you is far safer and far more profitable-- fishermen can enter into contracts with processors and avoid the ``race to fish,'' improving their bottom line and their safety. And it's been proven over and over again.

Some Maine fishermen have even developed community-supported fisheries co-ops, which bring local fish to the tables of local consumers, strengthening our communities while getting fishermen a better price for their catch.

It is critical for coastal communities and working waterfronts that fishermen are allowed to utilize the best management tools for their particular fishery. Catch shares may not be the best option for every fishery, but that decision should be left to the industry, the management experts, and the scientists in their region where the fishery occurs.

In order to help our fishermen, we should be focused on improving the stock assessments, implementing cooperative research programs, addressing monitoring challenges, and ensuring fair enforcement. This amendment would do none of these things. Instead, it would take a critical management tool out of the toolbox to keep our fishermen on the water.

I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting fishermen by keeping all options available for wise fisheries management by opposing this amendment and sticking with the fishermen in the State of Maine who have found this highly successful--far more safe for the industry and much more profitable for them. Any other argument is just plain wrong.

I yield to the gentleman from Washington.

Reclaiming my time, how much time do I have left?

So just to be clear, the Catch Shares Program, as you've heard over and over again, suits the fishermen of my district. It serves them well. It brings about a tremendous amount more safety. When they had allocations, they had to go out whenever the day was, whatever the weather was. With catch shares they can make that determination on their own. They can get a better price for their fish.

If the Port Clyde fishermen were up this late, which I feel confident they're not, and they saw Congress debating the opportunity to take away this right that has been very successful for them, they would be shocked and angry and frustrated and down here tomorrow with their boats and their boots.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize an incredible community effort in Maine at the Coastal Kids Preschool in Damariscotta.

The program at Coastal Kids began in 1995, and has since become a community staple, welcoming any child regardless of income or special needs.

Their hard work and dedication to quality and equitable education has given them a place of honor within the community. Which is why when they had to expand in order to better meet the needs of the community, stakeholders from all over the mid-coast came together.

On April 23, 2012, the Coastal Kids Preschool will formally unveil their new facility. With the help of many businesses and USDA Rural Development, an opportunity for a head start in life has been afforded to more children. I applaud this effort and wish the teachers, students, and parents all the best in their new home.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize an incredible effort in Maine, the Cross Walk Community Outreach Food Pantry in Naples.

In a time of such need the Cross Walk Community Outreach Food Pantry has been tireless in its efforts to help its neighbors in Western Cumberland County. Twice a month they gather to help residents in the towns of Naples, Sebago, Casco, Bridgton and Harrison with free meals and food boxes. They do this not with a large budget, but with a very dedicated set of volunteers.

Maine is a state that has struggled with food insecurity and the Cross Walk Community Outreach Food Pantry is making a small step in eradicating hunger in Maine. Neighborhood efforts like this demonstrate Maine's unbreakable community bond in our fight against hunger in Maine today.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate those in my State being honored with Governor's Award for Volunteerism. The following Maine people and organizations have showed exemplary commitment to donating their time and energy to help others:

Volunteer of the Year Julia Brown, Service-Learning Practitioner Donna Vigue, Outstanding National Service Volunteer Elisabeth Lohmueller, Youth Volunteer Julia Brown, Corporate Volunteerism honoree Pratt & Whitney Aircraft, Outstanding School District Sanford, and Outstanding Nonprofit Volunteer Program Trekkers.

In a cynical world that calls us to believe no one does something for nothing, these volunteers and thousands more like them continue to give us hope and belief in each other's goodness.

Madam Speaker, in the 2 years since its enactment, the Affordable Care Act has truly improved health care for families in Maine:

It has given 190,000 seniors access to free preventative care and saved them over $5 million in prescription drug costs; it has allowed 7,000 young adults to stay on their parents' insurance; and, in Maine, it has helped 1,300 small businesses provide their employees with health coverage.

More critical benefits are on the way, including banning insurance companies from charging women more simply because of their gender.

Yet here we are again, debating how to undo these successes, debating how to block women's access to contraceptives, and, this week, considering proposals to dismantle Medicare and shift the cost back to seniors.

This must stop. We can't afford to go back to the status quo--denying women equal access to care, or telling seniors they're on their own, or letting families go bankrupt just because someone got sick.

We must let the Affordable Care Act stand so more Americans have the chance to reap the benefits of true health care reform.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize an incredible program in Maine, the ``Mothers and Others Against Hunger'' through the York County Shelter Programs.

The York County Shelter Programs is a homeless services provider in Alfred, Maine, that has been in operation for more than thirty-one years and continues to be an essential part of York County--over the years caring for thousands of Mainers.

Maine is a state that has struggled with food insecurity and ``Mothers and Others Against Hunger'' is making great strides in eradicating hunger in Maine. Projects like this demonstrate Maine's unbreakable community bond in our fight against hunger in Maine today.

Mr. Bishop, thank you for allowing me this time.

Mr. Chairman, this amendment would prohibit any oil and gas drilling on the Outer Continental Shelf in the northeast, including my home State of Maine. An accident or a spill off our coast would be devastating to our working waterfronts. We don't have to look any further than the Deepwater Horizon disaster to see the damage an accident can do to a coastal economy. Not only that, but it would be decades before any oil that is discovered would ever make it to market, decades that should be spent researching and investing in new sources of clean energy and breaking our dependence on oil.

The Republican proposals of this bill would not only carelessly expand the permitting for current gas and oil leases but also encourage expanded drilling.

I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this commonsense amendment and voting against this ill-conceived bill.