Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to

the resolution (H. Res. 1258) expressing support for designation of May 2010 as Mental Health Month, as amended.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record.

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

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 1258. This resolution expresses support for the designation of this month, the month of May, as Mental Health Month.

We all know it, but sometimes we forget that mental health is absolutely essential to the overall health of every single person in this country. Mental health is an important contributor to the health of our communities, our families and even to our economy.

Mental illness affects 57 million people in the United States, Madam Speaker. The people impacted by mental illness are workers, their bosses, their employees, their mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers and close friends.

And increasingly, they are children. One in every five children and adolescents may have a diagnosable mental disorder.

Mental illnesses are clinically indicated, and they range from bipolar disorder to bulimia and other eating disorders to anxiety- related conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder. These illnesses affect all racial, ethnic and socioeconomic groups. They can strike at any place and at any time.

However, certain groups in our country appear to be more vulnerable to mental illness than others. For example, Latina adolescents have a higher suicide rate than any other demographic. And one-quarter of the members of our Armed Forces suffer from psychological or neurological injuries sustained during combat. This is a problem that we cannot and we must not ignore.

Madam Speaker, we know that mental illness is becoming more and more common in the United States and around the world. We know that mental illnesses have biological causes, and we know that the vast majority of mental illnesses can be treated. And yet people with mental illness continue to live under a stigma that surrounds those who fight diseases of the mind.

Today's resolution gives this House a valuable opportunity to help our constituents understand the biological basis for many mental disorders. It salutes the important work of national and community organizations who promote public awareness of mental illness and who help fight the unfair stigma associated with mental disease.

House Resolution 1258 also encourages health providers and organizations to promote mental well-being and to ensure that people with mental illness have access to the services that can literally save their lives.

This and previous Congresses have taken important and necessary steps to improve access to mental health services. Personally, I look forward to working with my colleagues to increase access to community-based mental health services.

In my hometown of Sacramento, the community-based mental health system is crumbling under the weight of severe budget cuts and ever- increasing demand for services.

We here in Washington cannot sit idly by as vital community services are slashed. Those whose very lives depend on a trained and understanding mental health provider are counting on us, and this resolution honors those who have dedicated their lives to treating others with mental illness.

I want to commend Representative Napolitano, the sponsor of this resolution and co-chair of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus, for her leadership on this important health issue.

I would also like to commend my Energy and Commerce Committee colleague, Representative Tim Murphy of Pennsylvania, for working so closely with Mrs. Napolitano on the Mental Health Caucus.

I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Napolitano), the sponsor of this resolution.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank my colleagues, Representative Napolitano, Representative Murphy, for their work on this resolution and mental health issues in general. And I would like to thank my colleague from South Carolina (Mr. Wilson).

This resolution represents one small step toward a future where the serious burden of mental illness is but a thing of the past. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Japanese American men and women who will be receiving honorary degrees from Sacramento City College. During World War II, thousands of Japanese-American students had to suspend their studies to report to gathering sites before being sent to U.S. internment camps. Because of this, many never returned or completed their studies at Sacramento Junior College. 68 years later they will receive honorary degrees.

In one of our nation's darkest hours, on February 19, 1942, through the authorization of Executive Order 9066, more than 110,000 Japanese- Americans and Japanese immigrants were relocated and interned at War Relocation Centers. Because of Executive Order 9066, thousands of Japanese-American young adults were forced to halt their studies, withdraw from school and report to assembly centers solely because of their Japanese ancestry.

With the passage of California Assembly Bill 37 on October 11, 2009, the Regents of the University of California, Trustees of the California State University, and the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges were authorized by the State of California to confer an honorary degree upon each person, living or deceased, who was forced to leave his or her postsecondary studies as a result of Executive Order 9066. It is an honor long overdue.

Sacramento City College has taken the important steps toward correcting an injustice that occurred more than 68 years ago, and has embraced California Assembly Bill 37. The California Nisei Diploma Project is a way of recognizing the many sacrifices made by Japanese- Americans in my home state of California.

On May 19, 2010, Sacramento City College will bestow 49 honorary degrees upon Japanese-Americans students, alive and deceased, who were forced to discontinue their studies at what was then known as Sacramento Junior College because of Executive Order 9066. Sacramento City College has looked forward to this moment with great anticipation, has received its former students and their families with great humility, and acknowledges their pursuit of higher education with honorary degrees.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pride that I stand today to recognize the Japanese-American men and women who will receive honorary diplomas from Sacramento City College. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring these American citizens for their sacrifice and dedication to our country. Let this ceremony stand as a stark reminder that the darkest moments in the history of our country must be remembered so that they are never repeated. Thank you for joining me in honoring these proud Americans.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

One hundred sixty-seven years ago this May, the first Japanese immigrants arrived in the United States in search of a promise of freedom and in pursuit of their own American dreams. Since that time, Asian Pacific Americans have contributed to the unique fabric of American culture in countless ways, becoming leaders in business, government, arts, and entertainment. It is entirely fitting that we have chosen May to commemorate these significant contributions, and to honor the 15.2 million Asian Pacific Americans who continue the legacy that their ancestors began in the 1840s.

During the past several decades, Congress has recognized the importance of the Asian Pacific American community to our nation's history. In 1977, Representatives Frank Horton and Norman Mineta introduced legislation to establish the first ten days of May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week. After similar legislation was introduced and passed in the Senate, President Jimmy Carter signed into law a joint resolution to establish this annual commemoration. Later, in 1990, we celebrated the first Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Since that time, May has officially become a yearly tribute to the Asian Pacific American community.

While it is important that we continue recognizing these important dates--which have raised awareness of the many critical contributions of the Asian Pacific American community--we must also look to the work being done each day to make certain that the interests of Asian Pacific Americans are being considered. Members of the House of Representatives and the Senate consistently honor the heritage of this important community. The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus--known as CAPAC--advocates for all Asian Pacific Americans, working to ensure their voices are heard at the federal level. Additionally, the Presidential Cabinet includes three Asian American dignitaries: Energy Secretary Steven Chu, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki.

Building on this active involvement of Asian Pacific Americans in the workings of our national government, President Obama has also stepped up his own efforts to restore the broad mission of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. This vital initiative--which I helped to establish while serving in the administration of President Bill Clinton--has been successful in increasing the participation of Asian Pacific Americans in federal programs. By doing so, the Initiative has helped make dramatic improvements in the quality of life of underserved Asian Pacific Americans.

Madam Speaker, in recognizing the countless contributions Asian Pacific Americans have made to our nation and to our history, I join my colleagues this May in celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Sacramento Center for International Trade Development and the Los Rios Community College District for being awarded the President's ``E'' Award for Export Service. This prestigious award is being given to these institutions in recognition of their support to businesses seeking to export their products.

The Sacramento Center for International Trade Development is part of a statewide program funded by the California Community College chancellor's office, and is part of the Workforce and Economic Development Program of the Los Rios Community College District. The center strives to advance northern California's global competitiveness by providing export and import services to businesses and organizations throughout the region.

For more than 15 years, the Sacramento Center for International Trade Development has proven to be a highly successful provider of comprehensive, export services and programs that addresses the needs of northern California businesses. A full-range of export services is provided, from basic export training, to detailed market support, to trade mission preparation and participation. Of paramount importance is the unique connection to the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Commercial Service which have allowed businesses in northern California to begin exporting products and increase sales in the global marketplace.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize and congratulate the Sacramento Center for International Trade Development and the Los Rios Community College District for their outstanding work to increase exports of Californian products, and for being awarded the President's ``E'' Award for Export Service. Please join me in honoring them.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the Reverend Dexter McNamara. On Thursday May 6th, Dexter was honored in Sacramento by the Interfaith Service Bureau for his outstanding work with the faith community. I ask all my colleagues to join me in thanking him for his work in bringing people of all faiths together to address our community's most pressing needs.

After earning his bachelor's degree from UCLA and his master of divinity from Princeton University, Dexter served as an associate pastor for 21 years with congregations in Colorado and California. Because of his outstanding work with his congregation and his ability to create greater understanding among faith groups, Dexter was offered a position as the executive director of Sacramento's Interfaith Service Bureau.

Dexter led the Interfaith Service Bureau for 16 years, from 1993- 2010. Under his leadership, we were continually reminded that our similarities are greater than our differences. He brought us together by mentoring faith and community leaders, while also leading numerous interfaith projects throughout the region. Dexter has helped the religious community in Sacramento grow and prosper by addressing the challenges of ministering to the needs of diverse people and cultures. He has helped people of different religious backgrounds overcome their differences and work together towards peace and unity.

In 1999, Dexter and the Interfaith Service Bureau coordinated an interfaith response after several synagogues were targeted by hate groups and firebombed. Similarly after the September 11 attacks on our country, he led a community service at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, bringing all faiths together in interfaith worship services. Out of this came the Call for Unity, annual event to

recognize outstanding community leadership in building bridges of understanding.

Dexter has been recognized numerous times for his outstanding work bringing people together for the common goal of justice and peace. He was awarded the Outstanding Leadership Award by the Sacramento Area Congregations Together, the Distinguished Award by the Sacramento Area League of Associated Muslims, the Building Unity Award by the Sacramento Housing Alliance, and the Community Leadership Award by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Dexter organized the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster for Sacramento from 2005-2008, and chaired the California Interfaith Power and Light working group from 2005-2008, which worked to raise awareness of global warming and climate change. He served on the Wells Fargo Community Advisory Board, the Family Support Collaborative Board, the Sacramento City Mayor's Youth Task Force, and the local Childcare and Development Planning Council.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the Reverend Dexter McNamara for his outstanding work with Sacramento's Interfaith Service Bureau, and in bringing people of different faiths together to work towards bettering our community and understanding of one another. I once again ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Reverend Dexter McNamara for all that he has done for the people of Sacramento.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the many outstanding Sacramento business leaders who will be honored at the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce's 115th Annual Dinner & Business Awards Ceremony. The men and women who were honored on Friday, February 5th, are dedicated to the success of Sacramento and have worked tirelessly to advance the region's economic vitality. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring these fine Sacramentans.

David Higgins, a commercial construction icon and retired CEO of Harbison-Mahony-Higgins Builders, has been named ``Sacramentan of the Year'' for his life's work and commitment to philanthropy in the region. He has been actively involved in the leadership of HMH Builders, a general building contractor, for more than 40 years.

For decades, David has advocated for the sustainable growth of the region, most recently as past president of the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization. He has also been widely recognized for his local charitable endeavors, including his longtime support of Jesuit High School, health and social service and youth programs, and the arts.

Ron Mittelstaedt, Chairman and CEO of Waste Connections Inc., has been named ``Businessman of the Year.'' Ron founded Waste Connections in 1997. When he took the firm public the following year, Waste Connections had approximately $40 million in revenue and about 400 employees. Today, the company serves about 2 million business and residential customers throughout 26 states, employs nearly 5,400, and has reported revenue of more than $1 billion. It is a true success story.

Jonna Ward, CEO of Visionary Integration Professionals, has been named ``Businesswoman of the Year.'' Jonna started VIP 12 years ago out of her spare bedroom and has grown it to be the largest woman-owned business in our region. Through her leadership, VIP is also one of the fastest growing businesses in the country--making the Inc. 500 list for the past two years.

Other award winners include ``Volunteer of the Year,'' Martha Clark Lofgren from Brewer Lofgren LLP. Robert Tobin, President and CEO of Cottage Housing, winner of the ``Al Geiger Award,'' will be recognized for his work providing housing for homeless. The ``Peter McCuen Award for Civic Entrepreneurs'' will be presented to Rick Fowler for his work with The Community College Fund.

The ``Small Business of the Year'' award will be presented to Patrick Mulvaney and Mulvaney's B&L, for growing into one of Sacramento's top restaurants. Patrick is a marvelous chef, who supports local farmers and is active with a number of local non-profits.

Four outstanding local institutions have been inducted into the ``Sacramento Business Hall of Fame'' for their longtime and significant contributions to the economic and civic growth of the Sacramento region. Being inducted are Kronick, Moskovitz, Tiedemann & Girard; Owen-Dunn Insurance Services; SAFE Credit Union; and Western Contract. Recognized for its success as a long standing, 100-year-old business in Sacramento, Lionakis has been inducted into the ``Centennial Business Hall of Fame.''

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize these individuals and businesses for their economic and civic contributions to the Sacramento Region. On behalf of the people of Sacramento and the Fifth Congressional District of California, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring them for their unwavering commitment to our region.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life of former California State Senator Albert S. Rodda, who passed away on April 3, 2010 at the age of 97. He was a lifelong public servant whose example as a true leader will remain a guiding light for generations to come.

Albert Stanley Rodda was born on July 23, 1912 in Sacramento, California. A lifelong Sacramentan, Senator Rodda graduated from Sacramento High School in 1929, attended Stanford University, then returned to Sacramento to teach at Grant Union High School. After serving as a gunnery officer in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Senator Rodda once again returned to Sacramento, this time to teach at Sacramento Junior College, now known as Sacramento City College. He returned to Stanford and earned his Ph.D. in history and economics in 1951. Even after serving in the legislature, he continued his passion for education by teaching at California State University, Sacramento and by serving on the Los Rios Community College District Board of Trustees.

Dedicated to both public service and education, Senator Rodda was a civic leader throughout his life. Before being elected into the California State Senate in 1958, he served as president of the Local 31 of the California Federation of Teachers. While serving with the CFT, it became clear to him that teachers' rights were often ignored by administrators and school boards. After his election, Senator Rodda became a fierce proponent for education reform. During his 22 years as a legislator, he championed public education as chairman of both the Senate Education Committee and the Senate Finance Committee. He crafted legislation that provided necessary funding for public schools and created the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office and Board of Trustees. He also drafted landmark legislation that gave teachers collective bargaining rights and established the Public Employment Relations Board.

While a steadfast Democrat, Senator Rodda was widely respected and made it a principle to work in a bipartisan manner with his fellow Senators. Because of this character trait he was often considered the choice alternative to end brewing legislative rivalries. He always made it a priority to thoughtfully study every piece of legislation he voted on, often taking his time, but always coming to a fair decision. He set the bar high and stands as an example that we all can look to for guidance.

Senator Rodda left his mark on Sacramento. His work can be seen at the Cal Expo, on Regional Transit and in Old Sacramento at the California State Railroad Museum. His lasting legacy may be a strong community college system, a system that he taught at and led. Today, the Los Rios Community College District and Sacramento City College give Sacramentans an opportunity to improve their lives through academic learning and career technical education.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize and honor the life of one of Sacramento's greatest leaders. On behalf of the people of Sacramento and the State of California, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Albert Stanley Rodda for his unwavering commitment to Sacramento, the State of California and our nation. Senator Rodda was humble, honest and thoughtful in all he did. He was a great man, and he will be missed.

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding me time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1338, which recognizes the significant accomplishments of AmeriCorps volunteers and helps raise awareness about the importance of national and community service. I would like to thank the Education and Labor Committee and especially Chairman Miller for their support of this legislation and my fellow co-chairs of the National Service Caucus, Representatives Ehlers, Platts and Price, for their partnership. As a co-chair of the National Service Caucus, it is a pleasure to call attention to the tremendous work of those involved in service at every level.

We are now in the midst of National AmeriCorps Week which is celebrated each year to honor the important work that AmeriCorps volunteers provide to our communities. At this time last year, the President had just recently signed the Senator Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, with strong bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate; and we have seen since then a tremendous increase in the number of AmeriCorps applications and interest in service as a whole.

The bill answered the call for Americans of all generations to help get the country through the recent economic crisis by serving in their communities. In times of strife, the American people have always shown a spirit of service and ingenuity, and investments in service and volunteer programs help prepare us to handle the unforeseen crises.

In my hometown of Sacramento, the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps, or as we say NCCC, provides important benefits to our region. For example, Sacramento-based NCCC members served thousands of hours to help fight the fires that devastated the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Californians and, in doing so, helped protect thousands more. AmeriCorps NCCC members are disaster trained and available for immediate deployment in the event of a natural disaster anywhere within the United States. Through programs such as AmeriCorps, State and national Volunteers in Service to America, or VISTA, and NCCC, servicemembers address critical needs in our communities, and we should continue to make national service more accessible to the millions of Americans who want to serve their country by contributing to their community.

Madam Speaker, AmeriCorps Week offers us an opportunity to honor the important work of AmeriCorps volunteers in our own districts and across the country. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution and take this opportunity to thank AmeriCorps volunteers for their dedication to improving our Nation one neighborhood at a time.

I thank the gentleman from Colorado for yielding me time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule and the underlying legislation.

Investing in research and STEM education will help our country take the lead in scientific, technological, and economic advancements. This bill will also assist my hometown of Sacramento, where we are positioned to become a leader in the clean technology sector. That is why I am pleased that Chairman Gordon has pledged to support two smart grid-related amendments that I plan to offer to the bill.

My first amendment will ensure that new smart grid technologies are an important part of the Department of Energy's research and development. My second amendment will ensure that smart grid technologies are included in the list of research and development activities undertaken by the Department of Energy innovation hubs. Both of these amendments will be extremely valuable to Sacramento's continued leadership in the field of smart grid technologies.

Now, Madam Speaker, I just want to take a moment to recognize the departing staff director of the Rules Committee. Muftiah McCartin, Muf, affectionately known, has steered the Rules Committee through a challenging period, and she has done so with skill and grace. We all know that the Rules Committee can sometimes be a very contentious place. I know I speak for my staff and for my colleagues when I say that Muftiah will be sorely missed on the Rules Committee. We all wish her the very best in her new position. And thank you for your very hard work, Muftiah, and your dedication. And enjoy the next chapter of your life.

Madam Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 1329 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Madam Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Sessions). All time yielded during consideration of the rule is for debate only.

General Leave

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and to insert extraneous materials into the Record.

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

Madam Speaker, House Resolution 1329 provides a structured rule for consideration of H.R. 5019, the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill, except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI, and provides that the bill be considered as read.

The rule waives all points of order against the bill itself. The rule makes in order the eight amendments printed in the Rules Committee report and waives all points of order against those amendments except those arising under clause 9 or 10 of rule XXI. The rule provides one motion to recommit with or without instructions.

The rule provides that the Chair may entertain a motion that the Committee rise only if offered by the chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce or a designee. The Chair may not entertain a motion to strike out the enacting words of the bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise this morning in strong support of the rule for the Home Energy Retrofit Act and the underlying bipartisan legislation.

I would like to applaud Chairman Waxman, Representative Welch, Representative Ehlers, and my fellow colleagues on the Energy and Commerce Committee for their hard work on bringing this important bill to the floor today.

Madam Speaker, as our Nation moves toward a more energy-efficient economy, it is critical that we adopt policies that enable us to become the world leader in promoting smart energy use and manufacturing energy-efficient products.

As our Nation continues its economic recovery, we must continue to focus on job creation. By increasing energy efficiency, we will not only create jobs and incentivize the emerging clean technology industry but also reduce carbon pollution and cut costs for customers.

H.R. 5019 would increase residential efficiency and create almost 170,000 jobs nationwide, thereby reducing the current 25 percent unemployment rate in the construction sector. Specifically, it would authorize a Silver Star rebate program, which would allow homeowners to buy and install more affordable energy-efficient products. The bill would do this by providing rebates of up to $1,500 for the installation of energy-efficient improvements, including upgraded installation, duct sealing replacements, and installation of storm windows and energy- saving doors.

This legislation would also authorize the Gold Star rebate program, which would provide rebates of up to $3,000 to those who make their entire homes at least 20 percent more energy efficient. As a result, the bill will have a meaningful long-term impact on energy use in communities across our country.

Recent estimates indicate that more than 3 million families would participate in a program like this. Such a participation rate would save these families $9.2 billion on their energy bills over the next 10 years, or the power equivalent of 6.8 million gallons of heating oil.

Madam Speaker, my hometown of Sacramento is poised to be a national leader in clean tech and energy efficiency. Sacramento has received over $200 million in energy efficiency and clean technology grants through the Recovery Act.

H.R. 5019 would build on the roughly $11.8 million in Recovery Act investments that have already been delivered to Sacramento to support energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits in residential and commercial buildings. These allocations include $7.8 million in Weatherization Assistance Program funding, $19.9 million for the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, $16.6 million in municipal financing to Sacramento County.

Madam Speaker, it is clear that the Home Star bill is in keeping with our Nation's commitment to improve the quality of our air, reduce our carbon footprint, lower families' energy bills, and create green jobs. These are all goals that my district has embraced.

Like many areas of the country, Sacramento has demonstrated great leadership on energy efficiency and clean technology. I have been organizing an effort in the Sacramento region to ensure coordination and to advance the energy efficiency and clean-tech industry.

It is imperative that we make energy-efficient products a brand that more and more Americans will purchase. We are lagging behind China and Germany in producing and exporting clean energy products, and that is simply unacceptable.

That is why I recently introduced H.R. 5616, legislation to boost clean-technology exports from the United States. The Home Star Energy Retrofit Act would further expand the market for energy-efficient products.

Madam Speaker, I again applaud Chairman Waxman's efforts to bring this bill before the full House today. As our economic recovery continues, it is important that we continue to support the Home Star program and other job creation proposals. H.R. 5019 does not represent the end of our work, but reflects another critical step forward for the American people and for our environment.

I thereby urge my colleagues to support the rule and the underlying legislation.

Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, before I yield to my next speaker I just want to say the bill before us today is a strict authorization bill. There is no direct spending contained in it. CBO has said it will not add to the deficit because any money which is spent under the Home Star Program will have to be appropriated through separate legislation. This is regular order in the purest sense of the term: authorize first, appropriate later.

Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Sutton), a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Madam Speaker, I just want to comment. It's not just the Democrats on the Rules Committee that said that the Latta amendment is unnecessary. The Congressional Budget Office has said so as well. Allow me to read directly from the CBO letter on the Home Star bill: Enacting the bill will not affect direct spending or revenues; therefore, pay- as-you-go procedures would not apply. Instead, any actual funding for programs in the bill would have to be appropriated separately by Congress. The amendment essentially is attempting to offset funds that are not spent.

With that, Madam Speaker, I would like to yield 3 minutes to the principal sponsor of the bill, a member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the gentleman from Vermont (Mr. Welch).

Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to a member of the Rules Committee, the gentlewoman from Maine (Ms. Pingree).

Madam Speaker, I just want to reiterate this again: what my colleagues on the other side of the aisle fail to recognize or refuse to admit is that the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act is an authorizing measure; it does not include any appropriated funds. Moreover, there are no earmarks included in this legislation. The Congressional Budget Office has said that enacting the bill would not affect direct spending or revenues, therefore, PAYGO procedures would not apply.

This process is not anything new, and the Republicans routinely approved proposals that authorized programs when they controlled this Chamber and the administration.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Bean).

Madam Speaker, I just want to say before I yield to my next speaker that this bill has been strongly endorsed by a broad range of business, labor, environmental and consumer groups. In fact, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, and the National Association of Home Builders have formally endorsed this bill. The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association, on behalf of its 6,000-member companies nationwide, also recently endorsed this bill. This bill is a perfect example of industry, consumer, labor, and environmental groups all working together to move our Nation toward a more energy-efficient economy.

Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).

I yield the gentlewoman 1 additional minute.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy).

I yield the gentlelady 1 additional minute.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Israel).

Madam Speaker, it is important that we not rewrite history today. The previous administration had the worst fiscal record in American history. When President Bush was inaugurated in 2001, he inherited from President Clinton a budget surplus projected to be $5.6 trillion over the next 10 years. But over his two terms, through fiscally reckless policies, President Bush squandered that surplus and gave the country 8 years of deficits instead.

We have had to take evasive action to stave off a long-term economic disaster, and no one on my side of the aisle will apologize for boldly confronting one of the worst fiscal and economic crises in our country's history.

Madam Speaker, creating jobs is our top priority, to put more Americans back to work and truly turn our economy around. There is no doubt that the Home Star program will boost our domestic energy efficiency industry and further move our country toward a clean energy economy. By increasing energy efficiency, we will not only incentivize the emerging clean technology industry, but also reduce carbon pollution and cut costs for consumers.

The legislation before us will create nearly 170,000 new green jobs in this country. This bill will create three separate energy efficiency rebate programs to encourage home energy efficiency, cut down on the use of fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase energy security and independence.

As a result, the bill would have a meaningful, long-term impact on energy savings. Together with the ongoing investment by the Recovery Act, the Home Star program will substantially invest in our clean energy economy and spur job creation and economic growth in this country. This Congress must continue to invest wisely in proposals that will train our workers, create new good-paying jobs, grow our economy and rebuild the middle class. This legislation does just that.

This bill has been strongly endorsed by a broad range of business, labor, environmental and consumer groups. In fact, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, and the National Association of Home Builders have formally endorsed this bill. It is a perfect example of industry, consumer, labor, and environmental groups all working together to move our Nation toward a more energy-efficient economy. Madam Speaker, this is an important bill that will create jobs and move our Nation towards a clean energy economy.

With that in mind, I urge a ``yes'' vote on the previous question and on the rule.

Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the resolution.

The previous question was ordered.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who passed away on April 20, 2010. Dr. Height was a noble woman who devoted her life to the service of others and for the advancement of civil liberty and freedom for all.

After earning her bachelors and masters degrees from New York University, Dr. Height started her career as a caseworker for the New York City Welfare Department. Possessing an audacious and strong spirit, Dr. Height helped fuel the civil rights movement as an activist with the National Council of Negro Women. She made it her life's work to fight for civil equality for African-Americans and women of all colors.

Dr. Height worked vigorously for the NCNW for more than 60 years. During her tenure, she served as the chair and president emerita of the NCNW, and worked alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Congressman John Lewis and A. Philip Randolph. Dr. Height was among the few fortunate people to have stood on the platform when Dr. King delivered his ``I Have a Dream'' speech in 1963.

While helping to lead the NCNW in the 1960s, Dr. Height organized the famous ``Wednesdays in Mississippi'' group, which brought women of all faiths and colors together in Mississippi to break racial, class, and regional barriers. Because of her leadership and ability to bring people together, she was often sought by First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt for counsel. Additionally, she encouraged President Dwight Eisenhower to desegregate schools, and urged President Lyndon Johnson to appoint African-American women to positions in government.

Dr. Height has received numerous awards and commendations for her work, including the Congressional Gold Medal, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Spingarn Medal from the NAACP, and in 1993, was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize and honor the life of one of our Nation's greatest civil rights leaders. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Dr. Dorothy Irene Height for her life-long service to the principles of freedom, justice, and equality for all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the 62nd anniversary of one of our country's most steadfast and supportive allies: Israel.

Since Israel's declaration of independence in 1948, Jews from all over the world have moved there to put down roots, flourish, and participate in a Jewish state and society. Israel has grown from a country that provided a refuge for Jews who survived unprecedented horrors and anti-Semitic persecution to a nation with a strong and enduring tradition of democracy and liberal governance.

Israel was born out of war and conflict, and has weathered constant threats from beyond its borders since its creation. The history of Israel is one of a nation small in size but large in its dedication to the enduring principles of democratic governance, liberal democracy, and national unity. It is a testament to the character and inner strength of the Israeli people that their country continues to develop and flourish even as it is surrounded by so many who unjustly wish to see it dissolved and destroyed.

The nation of Israel is a friend of the poor and dispossessed around the world. It has sent humanitarian aid and emergency medical supplies to war zones in Rwanda; disaster areas in Turkey, the Indian Ocean, and along the Gulf Coast; and to fire-scorched areas in Greece. Most recently, Israel supplied much-needed support and relief to the people of Haiti, including deploying the Israel Defense Forces on aid missions and contributing millions of dollars to help the Haitian people rebuild their country.

It is clear that Israel's national mission is a higher calling than mere survival or self-perpetuation. It is an example to the world of the power of a determined national spirit, a citizenry dedicated to justice, and a set of founding principles that cannot be corrupted.

From the moment the United States recognized the State of Israel 11 minutes after its creation in 1948, Israel has proven to be a loyal partner with which the United States enjoys a mutually beneficial alliance. The advances made by our two countries in educational, scientific, and technological fields help to make the world a better place, and augment our intelligence and security partnerships in a crucial region of the world.

I join with many of my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in highlighting my admiration for what the nation of Israel has accomplished in the last sixty-two years. It is my hope that the people of Israel use this anniversary as an opportunity to set a path forward that will help bring peace and prosperity to themselves and to their region for the next several years.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 40th annual Earth Day.

Each year Earth Day offers us an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made toward protecting our environment and the work that we still need to do.

Now more than ever, we have an historic opportunity to take action to limit the harmful effects of climate change and create the clean energy economy of the future.

And there is no reason why America shouldn't be at the forefront of this new economy--and my hometown of Sacramento is helping to lead that effort.

To date, our area has among the highest federal funding levels through the Recovery Act and other grants to support investments in clean-tech and energy efficiency projects, including SmartGrid.

Madam Speaker, Sacramento's efforts are helping to lay the groundwork for renewed economic prosperity for our country, create good jobs, and will provide enormous benefits to our environment at the same time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bruce Starkweather as he retires as Chairman of Lionakis. For twenty-five years Bruce has served the Sacramento community as a leading architect and civic leader. As his friends, family and colleagues gather together to pay tribute to his hard work and dedication, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring this truly inspirational individual.

In 1972, Bruce graduated from the University of Oregon, School of Architecture. After graduation, he practiced architecture for five years in Oregon before moving to California. He ran his own firm for eight years in Auburn, and then accepted a position on March 15, 1985 with the prestigious Sacramento-based structural and design firm Lionakis, Liske, Engberg and Beaumont, now known as Lionakis.

Bruce's contributions to the Sacramento community have not gone unnoticed. He has received several awards and certificates over the past twenty-five years for his exceptional achievements. Some of those awards include: Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Sacramento in recognition of his exceptional performance in the City of Sacramento's General Plan Advisory Committee; the Sacramento Old City Association Architectural Achievement Awards for his contributions to the Sacramento River Water Intake Structure; the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Presidential Citation in recognition of his efforts to bring together the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Central Valley Chapter and the City of Sacramento and many more. His impact on Sacramento can been seen in many local buildings including the Sacramento River Water Intake Structure, the Lionakis Office, Kaiser Permanente Medical Office Building, Foothill Oaks Elementary School, Lucy & Company Office Building and many, many others.

Bruce has a true civic mind and has been a leader who I am honored to call my friend. His involvement in the Sacramento community is never- ending outside of the office. He has served as the Board of Directors of Valley Vision and the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce, Principal-in-Charge of the Sacramento Water Intake Structure, as well as Vice Chair of the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and the Development Oversight Commission with the City of Sacramento.

Madam Speaker, as Bruce Starkweather, his wife DonnaLee and children Fred, Jennifer, Stephen, and Ryan, along with his many friends and colleagues gather to celebrate his retirement, I ask all my colleagues to join me in saluting a truly remarkable individual.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule and underlying legislation.

The health care package that we passed on Sunday and have the opportunity to finalize today represents years and sometimes decades of work put in by many of my colleagues here in the House, and it also represents the hopes and dreams of millions of Americans who live one accident away from bankruptcy, one paycheck short of making ends meet.

I've heard from many of the families and seniors who live in my district who've been terrified as they see their insurance rates go up, and fearful of losing their insurance and high quality of care.

But in between the time this House passed one of the most important legislative initiatives in our lifetime and

today, I have started to hear from many Sacramentans with a simple message: Thank you. Thank you to this Congress for having the courage to stand up for what's right. Thank you to the Speaker for her leadership in delivering this bill to the American public.

And I would like to say thank you back to the millions of Americans who voiced their strong support of the health care bill. You may not have always been the loudest voice in the room, but that doesn't mean we don't hear you.

Thank you to my colleagues for standing up for the American people in the many hearings, markups, town halls, and floor debates we've had on this issue. I look forward to standing with you today as we pass these improvements on the historic legislation passed on Sunday.

I urge my colleagues to support this rule and the underlying legislation as we stand together and ensure the quality health care Americans deserve at a cost they can afford.