Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to comment on clause 7 of House Rule XII, which requires that Members submit a statement citing the constitutional authority for any bill introduced in the House of Representatives. Every member of this body takes an oath to support and defend the Constitution. Therefore, this new rule adds nothing to the responsibilities we have already pledged to undertake. It does, however, add to the costs of government. Publishing each statement in the Congressional Record will cost the taxpayers an estimated $570,000 each year for supplies, labor and delivery.

Furthermore, this requirement is a solution in search of a problem. According to the Congressional Research Service, only about two hundred and twenty acts of Congress have been held unconstitutional by the Supreme Court since 1789. In the past ten years, the Court has struck down laws a mere seventeen times. The number of acts courts have upheld is surely in the thousands. So I ask, what is the Constitutional crisis this requirement addresses?

The rule itself demonstrates the lack of urgency here. It requires a perfunctory statement without explanation. Committees need not consider the statement, no Member will ever vote on it, and Senate bills can be considered without one. By omitting any teeth, the rule clearly indicates that Members are already capable of ensuring that bills comply with the Constitution. In the rare instance we go too far, the courts are perfectly capable of correcting us.

Sometimes, the Constitution itself must be corrected. For example, the original Constitution expressly allowed for slavery and counted slaves as three-fifths of a person. Certainly, I would not be here to make this statement if no one had challenged those provisions. Without the Fourteenth Amendment, the Constitution would not guarantee the rights to due process and equal protection that are now fundamental principles throughout American life. For over one hundred years, until 1920, it failed to ensure that women had a right to vote. Imagine a country in which only white, land-owning men could vote--that is the world we would live in if we were bound by the words of the Constitution as written.

Finally, while we respect the Constitution's limits on governmental action, we must remember that the framers purposely created a living document and intended it to grow and change with the country. The Constitution is a work in progress and what we do in Congress can help push it forward. Clauses we cite now may not exist or may be understood differently in the future. Pretending otherwise through empty (and costly) formalities does a disservice to its spirit and the causes of freedom and justice.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of my dear friend and constituent Marvin Clyde Zanders of South Apopka, Florida. Mr. Zanders operated one of the premier funeral homes in the United States. But he was much more than a successful and popular mortician to the people of Central Florida. According to his son, ``his personality made him a `life-giver' '' and he gave so much of his own life to the community.

Mr. Zanders served the families of Central Florida for over fifty years in ways too many to list. He provided scholarships, sponsored sports teams and gave continuous support to various organizations throughout Central Florida. He was known as ``The People's Choice'' and even Apopka's mayor often called him ``The Mayor of Apopka.''

The community formally recognized Mr. Zanders' humanitarian efforts by renaming Lake Avenue in Apopka to Marvin C. Zanders Avenue and dedicating the Marvin C. Zanders Park in Winter Garden. Ten years ago, the South Apopka Ministerial Alliance established the ``Marvin C. Zanders'' humanitarian banquet to honor the accomplishments of community leaders like him.

Mr. Zanders also served individual families in their time of grief with extraordinary compassion. Whenever one of my constituents could not afford a proper service in honor of a loved one, I knew that Marvin would take care of them. Through his selflessness, Marvin Zanders showed people that when we give back, we all become better and stronger. As he often said, ``God gave me a chance; let me give my fellow man a chance.''

My thoughts and prayers are with his children and many grandchildren. God has blessed us by allowing us to have Marvin Zanders in our lives.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 96th National Convention of The Church of God By Faith. The Church Of God By Faith was founded in 1914 for the expressed purpose of glorifying God in the beauty of ``Holiness''. The Founders, Crawford Bright, Elder John Bright, Aaron Matthews, Sr., and Nathaniel Scipplo had a desire to seek the quality of life and character which is set before Christians as an ideal guide and moral obligation. This bonding or coming together and consequent formation of the Church of God By Faith was to serve as a basis whereby believers could be encouraged, educated in the Word of God, strengthened, sustained, spiritually grow, and be united in an environment where the Spirit of Christ is truly active. The Church was materialized from the perceptional thought of foresighted, spiritually led and blessed individuals.

This enlightened tradition and founding principle is emboldened by its current spiritual leader, Bishop James E. McKnight, a man of great vision and purpose, whose leadership has spanned generations well into the present millennium and well poised for the future. We are indeed indebted to Bishop McKnight, all the Presiding Elders, Pastors, Officers and Members who, by faith and by practice, adhere to the founders' dreams and goals by maintaining the vibrancy and relevance of the Church of God By Faith for all its parishioners and the communities they serve.

Congratulations on the observance of this Ninety-Sixth National Convention on December 16-19, 2010, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Mr. Chair, although I support extending lower taxes for the working and middle class and reauthorizing unemployment benefits, I voted against the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization, and Job Creation Act of 2010 (H.R. 4853) because it pays too high a price in terms of tax cuts for the rich. The disconnect between the needs of the country and the wealth of a few was just too much for me to bear.

As the economy recovers, I think it is important to make sure that the working people of America keep as much of their hard-earned dollars as possible. For that reason, I am very happy that this bill extended tax cuts targeted for the middle and working class. The bill helps families make ends meet and provides a tremendous boost to our economy.

Similarly, reauthorizing unemployment benefits provides stability and certainty for those hardest hit by the recession. Moreover, the unemployed will spend their benefits, which spread throughout their communities and help the entire economy. Low-income tax credits, refundable child tax credits, and college tuition credits in this bill all have the same effect. They invest in our people and stimulate the economy.

Unfortunately, the tax policies forced on us by Republicans will have the opposite effect. We have been there before. I vividly remember when the Bush administration slammed huge tax cuts through Congress. They promised the economy would grow and deficits would never appear. Of course, the opposite occurred. The working and middle class earned less, the wealthy took home more and the deficit exploded, erasing the surplus created under President Clinton.

I categorically oppose a return to Republican tax policies that benefit only the rich at the expense of the Nation. The elections told us that Americans are tired of giveaways to Wall Street and CEOs. But that is exactly what these tax cuts represent. Under the bill passed last night, 40,000 of the wealthiest families in America will save $25 billion on estate taxes compared to current law. Couples earning over $250,000 keep an extra $116 billion over two years. Each billion equals one thousand millions. Just think of all the deficit reduction and extended unemployment benefits that could pay for.

When we are leaving millions of unemployed people empty handed a week before Christmas, it is outrageous to push our country further into debt just to give unnecessary tax cuts to the wealthiest Americans. I simply could not support such a stark contrast in our priorities.

Madam Speaker, this is a very sad day for the U.S. House of Representatives as we say goodbye to Washington's true transportation guru, Chairman James Oberstar. Your expertise and long history in developing transportation policy for our nation will be sorely missed as we continue to fight for the type of infrastructure funding that will keep our nation going strong.

You've guided the committee with wisdom and fairness. Continued the committee's longstanding bipartisanship, and steered major pieces of legislation affecting every sector of our transportation system. Your leadership will long be felt on this committee and throughout the nation long after you depart the chairman's seat.

The trips we took to Haiti were some of my most memorable times serving in Congress. Traveling there with Chairman Oberstar was like spending time with a native.

It was an honor working with you on so many issues over the years and I look forward to continuing to work with you as you remain a major player in transportation policy. Thank you Mr. Oberstar for all you have done.

Mr. Chair, I rise today in opposition to the irresponsible and immoral tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans included in this bill.

On this very night, senior citizens, disabled people, and poor families in public housing in Sanford, Florida are going without heat during one of the coldest spells in Florida's history. Yet, Congress is about to give billions to billionaires. There is a disconnect between tax cuts for the wealthy and the pain of everyday Americans that is shocking beyond belief.

If we cannot take care of our poorest citizens, why are we giving handouts to the richest? The elections told us that Americans are tired of giveaways to Wall Street and CEOs. But here we go again.

Why are we holding the middle class hostage to extending tax cuts for the top 2% of incomes? We can give away $700 Billion in income tax cuts, but we can't fix the heat in Sanford public housing.

On Christmas Eve, why are we giving a 25 Billion Dollar gift to forty thousand families, but giving nothing to millions of people who have been unemployed for more than 99 weeks?

The Bible teaches in Proverbs 21:13, ``if a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.''

I have never shut my ears to the cries of Americans who need help, but I will not vote for a bill that ties the fate of many to the wealth of a few.

Madam Speaker, I strongly support the extension of unemployment compensation. Indeed, there is no issue more important to our Nation right now than job creation. At a time when over 11 percent of Florida residents are desperately searching for employment and struggling to survive, it is simply mind blowing that we are not extending these benefits.

Never before has America turned its back on millions of American families as they struggled to make ends meet with this high level of unemployment. Yet the same Republicans, who want to increase our deficit by extending massive tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans, were willing to leave average Americans to fend for themselves and vote against this bill.

Certainly, extending unemployment benefits is not only good for the unemployed; it is also one of the best and fastest ways to stimulate the economy. According to the Economic Policy Institute, unemployment benefits were responsible for creating more than 1 million jobs since the recession started, and adding almost 2 percent to the gross domestic product.

Madam Speaker, during debate on H.R. 1722, H.R. 6419 and S. 3774, I was unavoidably detained, and unable to make the votes. Had I been present, I would have voted the following: rollcall No. 578, ``yes''; rollcall 579, ``yes''; rollcall 580, ``yes.''

Madam Speaker, I rise today to thank Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Family Caucus and Congressman Charles B. Rangel (NY) Chairman Emeritus of the House Ways and Means Committee for joining me in convening a very special Salute to Military Families and Children at the 40th Annual Legislative Conference of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, held in Washington, DC on September 17, 2010. The 22nd Veterans Braintrust National Forum entitled: ``Supporting Our Troops, Preserving Their Families,'' focused on the challenges and, equally important, the strategies for sustaining and strengthening returning troops, their spouses, family

members and children. Of particular importance was listening to and learning from the many homefront efforts of the public and private sectors, federal agencies, and distinguished scholars and professionals who are actively addressing the needs of returning soldiers, their families, and especially children who struggle emotionally to cope with multiple deployments, financial hardships, injuries, trauma and unimaginable caregiving responsibilities for honorably, and medically discharged U.S. military members.

In the tradition of the black church, the morning's invocation was delivered by Chaplain Michael McCoy, Sr., Associate Director and Manager of Diversity Development for the Veterans National Chaplain Center (NCC). Inspirational music was provided by the internationally renowned Brenda Jackson singing our national anthem and the Negro anthem ``Lift Every Voice,'' and Jacksonville's Tori Robinson, who performed a stirring rendition of the ``Battle Hymn of the Republic,'' before a crowd of more than 200 people.

Rep. Rangel served as moderator for the forum proceedings and opened saying, ``America has to do more to assist these brave men and women who put their lives on the line for us all.'' Reflecting upon his remarks along with both national statistics and congressional research examining the percentage of American families touched by the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and those currently serving in the U.S. military, or Armed Forces who make up only one percent of the country's total population, we agree that 3.3 million military households representing only one percent of American families have become a virtual military underclass (or other) who are unfairly carrying the burden of war. Thus, we recognize most American's don't have any first-hand knowledge of the current military, but particularly the experiences of military families and children. For example, in 2008 demographically nearly half of the active duty forces (43.2%) have children; over half of the active duty force (60.4%) are married and has a child, and a significant number are single (5.3%) and dual military couples (2.9%) with children (DMDC). Yet, for us, single parents representing 63.2 percent of all black families or more than twice the percentage for white families, and 75 percent higher than that for Hispanics (Joint Center, 2000) are obviously of major concern even though they are officially recognized as military heads of households and provided the same financial and service benefits as married soldiers. However, according to Drs. Robert Scheider and James Martin, authors of ``Military Families and Combat Readiness'', within the military's very traditional culture they are sometimes not well tolerated, usually ignored by formal spouse organizations, and not generally included in formal family activities such as support groups. Furthermore, we are unclear about how youth, family, low income, race, gender, disability and place (or geographical locations) converge as risk factors, or inhibit successfully coping with problems. Given, that these families often lack the immediate availability of extended family support during some of the most difficult and challenging phases of both marital and military life.

Our guest speakers were: Dr. David Satcher, 16th Surgeon General of the United States and Director of the Satcher Health Leadership Institute at Morehouse School of Medicine, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., Founder and President of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC), Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN), General Counsel Will Gunn of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Robert Gordon, Ill, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Military Community and Family Policy, Edward Jennings, Jr., Regional Administrator of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Tom Brasuell, Vice President of Community Affairs, Major League Baseball (MLB), Carol Ramsey, Vice President of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), Dr. Ernestine Briggs-King, Ph.D., Director of the Trauma Treatment Program at the Center for Child and Family Health (CCFH) in Durham, NC, and Director of Data and Evaluation Program at the National Center for Child Traumatic Stress at Duke University, Lyn Chwatsky, Assistant Vice President of Outreach Initiatives and Partners at Sesame Workshop, Aseneth Blackwell, Former President of Gold Star Wives of America and Ronald Steptoe, President and CEO of the Steptoe Group, LLC and a service disabled veteran.

Much of the focus of the presentations centered around overviews of veterans' experiences and VA programs available to families and veterans; changes to the new PTSD rules that have expanded eligibility for benefits; DOD programs and problems; Major League Baseball (MLB) initiatives focusing on PTSD and how the business community helps; clinical issues working with military families on mental health; Sesame Street activities and programs aimed at helping children of veterans cope with deployment and returning home; programs for widows, as well as programs to help hospitalized veterans and their families; and care giving programs. The presentations culminated with Dr. David Satcher, MD, Ph.D. recommending (1) invest in deployment preparation, including family basic training; (2) better support, especially mental health support; (3) more support for family, spouse and significant others; (4) improving intimate relationships involving returning disabled soldiers; and (5) greater acknowledgement for the role of caregivers, because the majority of military health care providers are family members, and, lastly, support research.

Although some may argue that there was no good news coming from Washington, DC before the mid-term elections, President Obama gets high marks for ending our combat mission in Iraq on August 17, 2010, welcoming back nearly 100,000 troops, and actually putting the money into the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) budget to make sure we're taking care of our veterans. Equally important, he signed legislation into law recognizing the role of family members in caring for wounded veterans, and within financial reform mandated the creation of a separate federal office just to provide special financial education and assistance to members of the military and their families. Therefore, we look forward to his next milestone coming at the end of 2011, when even more American troops will return home.

We also must congratulate Hon. Sanford Bishop, Jr., Co-Chair, Congressional Military Family Caucus, for his consensus building with members on both sides of the aisle for military and veteran constituents and inspiring the establishment of the Senate Military Families Caucus. In addition, Senator Barbara Boxer (CA) is working on dual military career legislation regarding deployment. Similarly, the American Psychological Association's (APA) military family component policy focus and collaboration with Sesame Workshop and others because, as VA General Counsel Will Gunn said, ``we all have a role to play,'' in helping to build bridges and partnerships with public and private providers.

Later that evening the Veterans Braintrust gala reception and awards ceremony featured special musical entertainment by Collaboration, and was sponsored by the generosity of the African American Civil War Museum, Cracker Barrel Foundation and Rick Blankenship. 2010 Braintrust awardees included Dr. Ronald Beavers, Ph.D., Major Alcestee Drisdale, USAF, Ret., Thomas Freeney, Actor Louis Gossett, Jr., late Judge Edward Gourdin (Posthumous), Dr. Thomas Horvath, MD, Dr. Alton Kirk, Ph.D., Fred Kuwornu, Frank Martin, Sgt. Maj. Turner McGarity, USA, Ret., Sam Mosley, Col. Krewasky Salter, USA, Ret., Ph.D., Col. Eugene Scott, USA, Ret., Trooper David Smith, Roosevelt ``Malik'' Thompson, Sgt. John Vasser, Sr., Secretary of State Jesse White, Lt. Col. Clarence Willie, USMC, Ret., Ed.D., Reggie Worlds, Center for the Study of the Korean War at Graceland University, Featherfist, Rebuilding Together Veterans Housing Program, and America's Buffalo Soldiers Re-Enactors Association (ABSRA), along with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority recognizing me for my work as a soro.

Lastly, I would like to give a special thanks to Frank Martin, Col. Krewasky Salter, USA, Ret., Ph.D., Dr. Regina Akers, Tom Nastick, Anthony Hawkins, Dr. William Lawson, MD, Ph.D., Guileline Kraft, Ph.D., LGSW, Jason Young, BGen (Ret.) Robert Cocroft, Dr. Diane Elmore, Ph.D., and Edna Wells Handy; as well as Congressional staff members: Starcie McAferty, Eyang Nyambi, Jonathan Halpern, Maj. Alfred Boone, USA, Lee Footer, Roshan Hodge, Michael Ashley, Michael Collins, Nancy Berson, Hannah Kim, Sunny Lee, Frederic Maurin, Emile Milne, Wendy Featherson, Reba Rafaelli and Kristen Rice-Jones for once again contributing to a highly successful three day series of film, discussion, education, thinking and strategizing on behalf of returning Iraq and Afghanistan soldiers and their families through valuable content, extraordinary information, and great attendance.

We all know that family life affects an Armed Forces member's performance, well-being, and retention in the military during peacetime, but particularly war. Thus, ensuring the family unit as a basic, or building block for community can easily be considered a national security issue given the alternatives: divorce, separation, domestic violence, arrest, incarceration, children problems, community instability, etc . . . Regardless of the nature, structure or type of military family relationships (e.g. nuclear, traditional two parents, single parent, dual career, extended, or augmented) they are still the bedrock of the American community, and a great resource for support, renewal and recovery.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support our national space industry. This industry is now facing a crisis point.

S. 3729, the NASA Authorization Act, gives NASA direction so the agency, contractors, and employees can plan for the future.

This bill will give NASA direction for foreseeable future. I am pleased that the ability to excite students and inspire our nation's youth to enter careers in STEM will continue. Being an astronaut or a rocket scientist are some the most exciting job descriptions one can have. This bill allows children to dream of becoming one of them again.

The bill contains an extra $50 million for the Space Technology Program led by NASA's new Chief Technology Officer, Bobby Braun, to include hundreds of scholarships allowing students to study math, science, and engineering. Minority education funding has been stable and this bill calls for the continuation of these programs. NASA and Administrator Bolden continue to actively support these programs and the Administration will work to ensure future funding is consistent with the President's request.

In addition this bill keeps shuttle employees and contractors in place for a while longer, sustains exploration funding. The country gains from launches and this bill continues those. This bill provides funding to upgrade critical infrastructure at Kennedy Space Center for the future of the space industry. Also, the bill extends the life of the International Space Station. The science we have received from the International Space Station is invaluable and this bill continues that project.

We need to pass this bill now. Science and space exploration wait for no one, not even

politicians. We cannot let the perfect be the enemy of the good.

NASA serves a vital role in our economy and education system. Therefore, please join me in voting Yes on S. 3729.

I encourage my colleagues to oppose this terrible amendment.

Rail in America is experiencing a renaissance that we haven't seen in 50 years. All forms of passenger rail, including Amtrak, are seeing increased ridership numbers. In fact, in 2009 Amtrak welcomed aboard over 27 million passengers, the second largest annual total in Amtrak history. An average of more than 74,000 passengers ride more than 300 Amtrak trains per day. And with gridlocked roadways and ever increasing prices in gas, ridership will only increase.

Amtrak provides a majority of all intercity passenger rail in the United States, with more States and localities across America turning to passenger rail to meet the transportation needs of their citizens.

Amtrak reduces congestion and improves our energy independence. One full passenger train can take 250 to 350 cars off the road. Passenger rail also consumes less energy than both automobiles and commercial airlines.

Moreover, Amtrak plays a vital role in emergency preparedness and recovery during Hurricane Katrina. In fact, Amtrak was the only entity that could get into New Orleans to evacuate victims and deliver food, water, and supplies.

Amtrak has made significant improvements in its system over the last several years, has steadily increased ridership numbers, plays a vital role in disaster recovery, and has an ambitious agenda for future growth.

Indeed, it was Congresswoman Bachmann and her Republican colleagues that put this country in this terrible debt and financial situation that we're in right now by rubber-stamping the Bush tax cut for the rich year after year, what I call ``reverse Robin Hood.'' We're robbing from the poor and working people to give tax breaks to the rich.

I encourage my colleagues to support your constituents, support Amtrak, and vote ``no'' on this terrible amendment.

I have a letter that I want to submit for the Record from the chairman of Amtrak, Joe Boardman.

And I just want to give one statement. The lack of capital funds would deny intercity passenger rail service to 29 million people in over 500 communities in 46 States.

And remember, folks, if it's Flake, it's ``no.''

National Railroad

Passenger Corporation,

Washington, DC, July 29, 2010.

Hon. Member of Congress,

Washington, DC.

Dear Representative: I am writing to advise you what the

impact to Amtrak would be if Representative Bachmann's

amendment to eliminate $1.2 billion in capital funding is

adopted during today's floor debate of the FY11

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related

Agencies bill. If enacted, Amtrak would have no capital

investment program for FY11. The lack of a capital funding

program would deny intercity passenger rail service to 29

million people in over 500 communities in 46 states. Amtrak

is on track to have the highest ridership year ever, carrying

more people, more places than we did two years ago when the

country was experiencing record high gas prices. This

amendment would require us to furlough nearly all of our

20,000 employees who live in nearly every state in the Union.

It would hamper the operation of key commuter rail services

in major metropolitan areas including much of the Northeast,

Chicago, Seattle, and Northern and Southern California, and

we would default on commercial loans which finance most of

our equipment.

Just under two years ago, Congress recognized the

importance of intercity passenger rail and approved a

reauthorization of Amtrak in the Passenger Rail Investment

and Improvement Act. Amtrak's appropriations request for FY11

is in line with this congressionally-approved authorization.

Investment in Amtrak's capital program creates jobs,

provides energy efficient mobility, and allows us to keep

America's passenger railroad safe and reliable.

Sincerely,

Joe Boardman,

President and Chief Executive Officer.

Madam Speaker, I rise in memory of a great Floridian, Claude Pepper, who served this body and the other body for over 32 years. He was one of the greatest advocates for senior citizens in the history of this body, and I rise today in his memory to talk about the importance of Social Security to maintain the safety net for all Americans as we celebrate 75 years of Social Security being that safety net for seniors.

And I have some breaking news for everyone. Social Security is not the cause of the deficit. Let me repeat, Social Security is not the cause of the deficit. And the Republican plan to privatize Social Security is going to be dead on arrival.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5266, the National Commission on Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act.

I would like to thank Chairman Oberstar and subcommittee Chairwoman Norton for their hard work and assistance in bringing this bill forward.

I would also like to thank Mark Shriver, the commission chair, for his work and dedication to children.

You all have provided crucial support in the creation of the National Commission on Children and Disasters and continue to do so in advancing this important bill to allow the commission to continue its important work.

The passage of H.R. 5266, the National Commission on Children and Disasters Reauthorization Act of 2010, is of extreme importance to our Nation's efforts in protecting our Nation's children before, during, and following a disaster.

In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I authored the KIDS WiSH Act to improve Federal, State, tribal, and local disaster preparedness, response and recovery efforts for children who make up nearly 25 percent of our population but whose needs are often overlooked in disasters. Children are not little adults, and their needs are unique and cannot be easily inferred from disaster plans prepared only for adults.

The commission delivered its interim report in October 2009, which identified numerous gaps and made recommendations related to disaster management and recovery, child physical and mental health, education, child care, child welfare, juvenile justice, emergency sheltering, housing, evacuation, and family reunification.

As President Obama's administration has taken shape, the commission has played a vital role in fostering communication and coordination among Federal agencies and their partners in implementing the recommendations. While there are encouraging signs that the unique needs of children are receiving greater attention, there is still a great deal of important work ahead for the commission beyond the current fiscal year.

Just recently, in fact, in its interim report issued 8 months ago, the commission released a report which tracks the progress toward the implementation of the recommendations. Although the commission found that Federal agencies have taken some initial positive steps, many crucial recommendations remain substantially unad-

dressed, leaving children needlessly vulnerable in disasters. Therefore, I wholeheartedly believe that more work is needed to be done to bring about sweeping and permanent changes in the Nation's disaster planning and management, which still heavily favor able-bodied adults.

I encourage all of my colleagues to support our Nation's children and to vote ``yes'' on this bill.

Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 1463) supporting the goals and ideals of Railroad Retirement Day.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include any extraneous materials on House Resolution 1463.

I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I strongly support House Resolution 1463, supporting the goals and ideas of Railroad Retirement Day, and encourage all of my colleagues to support this important legislation. This resolution recognizes Railroad Retirement Day and the 75-year anniversary of the Railroad Retirement Act.

The railroad industry established the first formal industrial pension plan in North America in the year 1874. The Railroad Retirement Act came because the Great Depression wiped out the private system before the Social Security program could meet the needs of railroad retirees. Additionally, the State-based unemployment insurance system had failed to serve those whose work took them across the country.

Under the Railroad Retirement and Railroad Unemployment Insurance Acts, railroad workers and employees fund retirement, survivors, unemployment, and sickness benefits programs for the Nation's railroad workers and their families. During the past 75 years, more than 2 million retired workers, 1.1 million spouses, and 2.4 million survivors have received benefits through the Railroad Retirement Board.

Finally, the program fosters a close relationship between railroad employees and employers. The change in the system over the years has been the result of cooperation between management and labor, and stands as an example of how government, labor, and businesses can work together to serve the Nation's needs. Clearly, the railroad retirement programs serve a valid need in a very efficient manner, and is worthy of our recognition.

I reserve the balance of my time.

My dear friend, I am so happy that you support the railroad retirement system. And I can tell you that some people have not always been supportive of Social Security. I remember when Social Security passed, it passed without any Republican vote. And constantly, year after year, Bush and the Republicans tried to privatize it, and the American people said ``no'' and the Democrats said ``no'' and I say ``no, no.''

Now, I support the railroad retirement, and I'm glad that we stand together for the railroad workers. I hope we can get that same kind of support for the Social Security benefits.

Madam Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Perriello).

I wasn't here in 1935 but I certainly was here in 1995, and I do know where the Republicans stood as far as not only privatizing Social Security but gambling with Social Security and where would they be with the crash in Wall Street.

I would like to yield such time as he may consume to the chairman of our committee, the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), who's the guru and has all of the figures and the statistics on the history of Social Security and those who support it and those who have never supported it.

Madam Speaker, let me just say that I welcome a debate on how we can reform Social Security any time, but I can truly say, having been here during the 1990s, one way that you shore it up is not to privatize it.

Coming from Florida, I mentioned earlier that I come from the State where Claude Pepper served in this body and the other body for over 32 years. He was one of the strongest advocates for Social Security. Clearly, we can see what happened on Wall Street and what has happened with other programs and pension funds.

Social Security is a safety net. Being in this body, let me say you stand for something or you fall for everything, and one of the things we are going to stand up for on this side is for Social Security.

We are very happy that we are having before us today the railroad retirement that we all can support.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, let me just say that we, on our committee, always stand ready to work in a bipartisan manner, and we would certainly be interested in ideas that don't include privatizing Social Security. But for Members to come on this floor and act as if Social Security is the reason why we have the deficit--for several years, I know there is no institutional memory, we had what we call reverse Robin Hood, robbing from the poor and working people to give tax breaks to the rich. That's what got us in this hole.

Now I am glad we all can support the bill that is before us today, but as far as I am concerned it's the Ways and Means that handled this particular issue, and I am prepared to debate and discuss and work with my colleagues to come up with solutions as to how we can tweak the program.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I rise on this 4th of July Independence Day Weekend to congratulate and thank Congressmen Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. and Charles B. Rangel for joining me last year in convening a powerful national dialogue at the 21st Anniversary of the Congressional Black Caucus Veterans Braintrust during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 39th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) held in Washington, DC. Our September 25, 2009 forum titled: Coming Home: Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life, brought together members of the Obama administration, federal agencies, distinguished scholars and professionals, and two of today's highest ranking black military officers to discuss the important challenges and obstacles facing thousands of returning soldiers and veterans who struggle to negotiate family life, jobs, education and health care after honorable discharge from the U.S. military.

As is our tradition, the morning session began with Dr. Zachery Tims, Jr., Senior Pastor, New Destiny Christian Center (NDCC) giving the invocation to bless the occasion, and inspiring international singer Brenda Jackson singing our national anthem, and a stirring rendition of `Lift Every Voice and Sing,' the Negro National Anthem by Paul Lawrence Dunbar before a standing-room-only crowd of 400 people.

Rep. Charles B. Rangel provided the framework for the forum using his own experience as a Korean War soldier who had experienced the difficulty of transitioning to the real world after a tour of combat. He opened the morning saying, ``I went from being a respected and decorated Army staff sergeant to being viewed as nothing more than a high school drop-out.'' He was able to navigate his way using the GI Bill from underemployed in the garment district of New York City to obtaining his undergraduate and law degrees. But not everyone is as fortunate.

``Although we have a very effective Department of Veterans Affairs, thousands of today's veterans are falling through the cracks. Most of those who flounder are simply not aware of the assistance available from the VA and other service organizations,'' Rangel said. ``Our vision was that any veteran who walked into this session lost or disillusioned about the future--after hearing our speakers--would walk out feeling that the VA was there for him or her.''

Our keynote speaker was Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, of the Department of Veterans Affairs, the first Asian American Four Star General in American military history, a real `Soldier's Soldier.' He was joined by two other distinguished military officers, Rear Admiral Michelle Howard, the first female graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy to command a U.S. naval vessel, and Four Star General William ``Kip'' Ward.

Adm. Howard made history as the commander of the USS Rushmore that led the successful rescue effort of Captain Richard Phillips and his crew of the Mearsk Alabama captured by Somali pirates during April 2009. Gen. Ward is a Morgan State University graduate and the highest ranking African American in the U.S. military. He spoke eloquently about his military career. He serves as the first-ever commander of the newly formed U.S. AFRICOM, one of six geographical commands within the Department of Defense, tasked with training African soldiers and delivering aid and resources to the continent's residents. Also in attendance were retired Generals Julius Becton, George Price, and Robert Cocroft.

Other federal agency representatives and distinguished scholars included Assistant Secretary Ray Jefferson of the Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Services (VETS), Deputy Assistant Secretary Mark Johnston of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Corporate Liaison Officer Chuck Southern, Center for Veterans Enterprise, Department of Veterans Affairs, Chairman James Bombard, Veterans Advisory Committee on Education, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Drs. Shirley Marks, Chief, Mental Health Service, West Texas VA Health Care System, and Kristen Lester, Clinical Psychologist and VA Researcher, Women's Health Sciences Division, National Center for PTSD.

Thus, the forum sought to present the latest up-to-date and vital information to take home to veterans, their families and communities, particularly communities of color across the Nation. Secretary Shinseki's remarks focused on three specific areas: access to services and benefits, the VA disability backlog, and homelessness. He also described the VA footprint and new community health care delivery services such as telehealth, as well as a list of issues confronting the VA: homelessness (approximately 50 percent African American), depression, suicide, joblessness, substance abuse, PTSD, and TBI stigma. Secretary Shinseki, as well as others also graciously acknowledged FY 2010 funding levels as a congressionally enhanced budget, but more importantly, a special `debt of honor.' He continued, ``we intend to end homelessness among veterans as opposed to witnessing their downward spiral into hopelessness through education, jobs, mental health and housing as an investment in America's future.'' Coupled with announcing new VA initiatives such as increasing SBA to 15 percent, $500 million going toward homeless veterans programs, along with 20,000 HUD VASH vouchers for housing support--the Obama administration and he will transform the VA into a 21st century organization. Lastly, he promised that 40 years after Vietnam, and 20 years after the first Gulf war, he will seek satisfactory answers to two nagging issues: (1) Agent Orange and its host of illnesses, and (2) Gulf War illness.

The afternoon session consisted of the Veterans Stakeholders Roundtable Discussion, Part II. The roundtable was moderated by Mr. Leonard Dunston, MSW, President Emeritus of the National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) and featured the following subject matter experts as discussants: Dr. William Lawson, MD, Ph.D., Chairman, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Howard University, Dr. Jay Chunn, Director, National Center for Health Behavioral Change, Urban Medical Institute, Morgan State University; Dr. Cedric Bright, MD, VA Staff Physician, Dr. Reginald Wilson, Ph.D., Tuskegee Airman & Senior Scholar Emeritus, American Council on Education (ACE), Dr. Jerome Brandon, Ph.D., Professor of Exercise Physiology, Department of Kinesiology & Health, Georgia State University, Dr. Vincent Patton, Ill, Ed.D., Director of Community Outreach for Military.com, Dr. Donna Holland Barnes, Ph.D., Suicidologist, Howard University, Dr. Kristen Lester, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, Women's Health Sciences Division of the National Center for PTSD & member, American Psychological Association and commentary by Dr. Tom Berger, Ph.D., Senior Advisor at Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), Peter Dougherty, Director of VA Homeless Programs, Fredette West, former Chief of Staff for the Hon. Louis Stokes (D-OH), Retired, and Dr. James Woodard, Ed.D., JD, former Senior Staff Member for the late Hon. Joseph Moakley (D-MA), and original Braintrust member.

The mission of the roundtable discussion was to complement the morning session with greater details and re-analyses related to veterans transitional difficulties involving behavioral health, PTSD, TBI, suicide, depression and other mental illnesses with both a professional service provider and an interdisciplinary perspective-- emphasizing that no one comes home from war unchanged, and unfortunately many emotionally and psychologically wounded troops fall through the cracks.

For example, veterans make up only 13 percent of the population, but account for 20 percent of the suicides. Dr. Barnes indicated veterans with PTSD are more than 3X as likely to die by suicide as their civilian counterpart. White college educated veterans living in rural areas are at the highest risk. Yet, African Americans may be the second highest especially those between the age 18-44. This concurring with Dr. Mark's earlier presentation, that veterans in the general US population are at an increased risk of suicide, with a projected rise in the incidence of functional impairment and psychiatric morbidity among veterans of the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Consequently, more clinical and community interventions that are directed towards veterans in both VA and non-VA healthcare facilities are needed. Dr. Chunn spoke about physical assault and attempted murder rates being more than 3X higher among Iraq and Afghanistan returnees, alluding to a direct correlation between homicide and suicide echoed by a number of mental health professionals. Even more so, that the VA is seeing only 40 percent of the behavioral health problems as opposed to the 60 percent in the general population. Dr. Berger pointed out that of the eight VA recommendations concerning suicide, there are no action plans, despite the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study (NVVRS) and the RAND Study of 2008. Correspondingly, risk factors such as multiple deployments, military sexual trauma, TBI linked to PTSD all appear to be disconnected. This is compounded by the fact that close to 50 percent of the National Guard troops come from rural areas of the country, strongly suggesting that the VA and military health systems are not working, because there is no connectivity!

VA researcher Dr. Lester responded that the VA is not a perfect system by any means. Additionally, that there are not a lot of studies comparing ethnic minorities and white PTSD treatment; other research problems stemming from too small sample sizes, and the need for more research targeting issues of relevance to OEF/OIF women service members. Furthermore, she indicated that women's exposure to combat results in increased dual risk, decreased social support, increased parental stress, unsupportive homecoming reception and barriers to health care. Therefore the need for evidence-based treatment and training is essential. Dr. Brandon added a systems reevaluation perspective, more specifically aimed at VA moving from a sick care system to a health care system which includes more individual responsibility and healthy thinking, or healthy lifestyle choices. He also refocused us on the triangulation of expectations such as knowledge, practices and programs, and outcomes. Lastly, with respect to practices, he questioned effectiveness. Moreover, Dr. Lawson, reiterated, the VA is not culturally competent so mental disorders and traumatic brain injury are not recognized by professionals, nor appreciated as stigmatizing for veterans. Furthermore, the complexities of mental health issues are such that veterans are simply non- responsive to treatment, because they do not get state of the art treatment. With respect to trauma, he said, we know about self- medication and incarceration (the majority of which are non-violent drug abusers) and the revolving door cycle. For depression, he recommended, early screening, culturally relevant education and referral. Like other African Americans, he said, veterans have less access to services, poor recognition of mental disorder, and lack access to state-of-the-art care. Although better than civilians still there exist disparities in services and care!

In terms of the new GI Bill Dr. Wilson stated, today 30 percent of the modern military is black, versus high rates of unemployment plaguing black communities across the nation. Consequently, blacks are more inclined to reenlist, more are married, and have a couple of kids, thus ruling out college! Further, since the new GI Bill has only been in effect for a few months there are no statistics available. However, a recent higher education review reveals: 57 percent of higher education institutions have some kind of program, or service for veterans; 46 percent of private colleges have no program, or service; 22 percent provide special enrollment, and 75 percent provide credit for military occupational training. Yet, focus groups reveal that there is little provision for veterans with families and children, and online education is not recognized.

Also raised was the issue of the impact of non-veterans on veterans in the clinical setting, such as whether or not the peer to peer approach is best (i.e. comfort levels). However, no data currently exist to answer this question. VA staff physician Dr. Bright, a non- veteran talked about the importance of listening and stressed the need for Blacks to participate in clinical research and be informed, while encouraging community-based participatory research to tailor products to local needs, and stressed health equity. Tincie Lynch, a member of the new VA Community Advocates Program based in South Carolina, Alabama and Georgia commented on serving as a life coach to get veterans to the next level, and the start of a new Georgia Veterans Treatment Court. Still others insisted that domestic violence is related to PTSD, but suggested we are not looking at emergency room (ER) data. At the Howard University Hospital PTSD Symposium presenters pointed out that domestic violence is not necessarily included in the national dialogue about returning soldiers, or veterans, families and PTSD. Also widespread usage of new technology such as websites, cell phones, twitter, facebook, etc. by family members raised the issue of how do we capitalize on the worldwide phenomenon known as social networking to better serve veterans. Equally important, Dr. Lawson emphasized `electronic medical records must be able to talk to one another.' There also seemed to be consensus about quality time with VA physicians and that 15 minute interactions are problematic. Consequently, unanimous agreement was voiced for `changing reimbursement for primary care providers.' Other

comments consistently reinforced `we have a broken system,' and `can't just anyone engage no veteran!'

Furthermore, Ms. West, Mr. Dougherty and Dr. Woodard's commentaries provided a well-rounded critique of veterans' substantive issues, along with accurate assessment and reasonable recommendations through the prism of their own policy experience. West's critique highlighted that the military tradition runs in the family; also, families have PTSD. Thus, we need to look at a minority health bill now, and health care reform must include military, veterans and family coverage. Dougherty's commentary indicated 20 percent of people who called the VA suicide prevention hotline are homeless. He also emphasized that coordination of services and benefits are crucial, along with building relationships and new partnerships with others. Moreover, the VA is moving to a proactive stance in terms of criminal justice and justice outreach, court diversion, the GI Bill, expedited VA claims and planning, as well as plan redesign. Dr. Woodard's commentary, on the other hand, posed a more difficult set of questions: `what is the nexus of sick care to health care transition, individual responsibility (vs. governmental obligation) and VA access and treatment issues?'

All told, the outcomes of the Congressional Black Caucus Veterans Braintrust `Coming Home' forum (including the Howard University PTSD Symposium) can be measured in terms of: (1) three summary reports (a) Resulting Trauma: Identifying the Signs, Symptoms & Impact of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in African Americans; (b) Coming Home: Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life & Veterans Stakeholders Roundtable Discussion, Part II; and (c) Affirming Life: Suicide Prevention & Intervention in Communities of Color; (2) potential enhancements for Representative Charles Rangel's legislation (H.R. 1963) and recommendations for CBC Chairwoman Barbara Lee's (D- CA), Task Force on Veterans; (3) an outline of questions for future GAO research in the following three critical areas: (a) veterans' homelessness, (b) women veterans, particularly those single parents with children, and (c) mental health, especially PTSD, TBI, depression, suicide, and mental illness stigma; (4) the successful launching of a new round of issues education outreach workshops based on content and information from September 25th's Veterans Braintrust (2010 New Abstracts: Meeting the Needs of African American Homeless Veterans; U.S. Military Personnel: Women & Veterans of African Descent; & The Veterans Braintrust as a Strategic Intervention); (5) uncovered or identified at least four clearly relevant, but essentially unanswered questions with implications for veterans policy in the future: (a) why are Iraq and Afghanistan combat returnees not using the system, or VA services?, (b) why are African American veterans disproportionately represented among the homeless?, (c) why are only one-third of the entire veterans population enrolled in the VA?, and (d) what is the most effective method for advocating the VA system's needed 21st century transformation, especially, with respect to cultural competence and cultural diversity, or racial, ethnic, and gender differences based on veteran's health equity? Last, but not least, several recommendations for legislative consideration or action in the future.

The evening's gala reception, ``Saluting Veterans & Their Support Organizations'' and ``African Americans in Transportation,'' featuring special musical guest Chuck Brown, the `Godfather of Go-Go', was sponsored by the Association of American Railroads and the A. Philip Randolph Institute and recognized me for my work as Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines and Hazardous Materials. The U.S. Army's Freedom Team Salute awardees included Lt. Col. William Calbert, USA, Ret., William Dabney, Herculano Dias, Sgt. Maj. Yolanda Glover, USA, Ret., Col Kathaleen Harris, USA, Ret., Stanley Murphy, Capt., USA, Vietnam, MSgt. Edwards Posey, USA, Ret., Dovey Johnson Roundtree, USA, WWII, Horace Taylor, USA, WWII, and Dr. James Woodard, Ed.D., JD, Capt., USA, Vietnam. Emile Milne, Legislative Director for the Hon. Charles Rangel (D-NY) was presented the Citizens Beneficiary Award by the Mike Handy Foundation & Fund for his unique contribution to our Nation's veterans, along with 2009 Veterans Braintrust awardees, including: Dr. E. Curtis Alexander, Leroy Archible, Lt. Gen. Julius Becton, Jr., USA, Ret., Aseneth (Mays) Blackwell, Maj. Gen. Joseph Carter, Dr. Darlene Collins, Roy Foster, C.R. Gibbs, Brig. Gen. Stayce Harris, Wanda Ruth Lee, BGen. Allyson Solomon, Barbara Ward, Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Enoch Williams, Joe Wilson, Jr., Eddie Beard Veterans Home, 9th Ordinance Training Battalion Alumni Association, The Units K-West & B- East (US) Reunion Booster Club, The Friends of Charlton Gardens, Sister Soldiers Project, African American Veterans Project of Lancaster County, Dayton African American Legacy Institute, The Legacy Museum of African American History--Much in Demand Exhibit, Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum & Black Veterans Archives.

Furthermore, in trying to capture the mood of the moment during the festive 2009 awards ceremony honoring veterans, their families, and friends the word that best describes the long, rich legacy of African American military contributions is ``Service'', not money. They admirably and nobly performed service to God and country despite the challenges of race and discrimination. And, no less important, their ``Service'' to family and friends constituted the essential building block of community.

Finally, as a member of the Veterans Braintrust leadership I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to speakers, panelists, authors, and attendees, but particularly Dr. Frank Smith, Jr., Dr. William Lawson, Dr. Donna Holland Barnes, Guileine Kraft, Jason Young, Jean Davis, Constance Burns, Dr. Clarence Willie, Edna Wells Handy, Dr. Diane Elmore, Lucretia McClenney, Ralph Cooper, Robert Blackwell, Ervin Russell and T. Michael Sullivan, as well as congressional staff members Roshan Hodge, Lee Footer, Emile Milne, Robin Peguero, Kristen Rice- Jones, Holly Biglow, and Jonathan Halpern for what can only be described as, the best ever Veterans Braintrust.'

I want to once again thank the presenters at the forums and awardees for their long, rich legacy of service, both in the military abroad and in the fight for equal rights at home.