Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 1083 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to my friend, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart).

All time yielded during consideration of the rule is for debate only.

General Leave

Mr. 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.

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

Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 1083 provides an open rule with a preprinting requirement for consideration of H.R. 2537, the Beach Protection Act of 2007.

The resolution provides 1 hour of general debate, controlled by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Some of our Nation's greatest treasures are the beautiful beaches that surround our country. So many of us have spent time with our families and friends enjoying our country's picturesque coastlines. Our beaches not only provide a place for relaxation and recreation, they are also a vital economic engine that draws tourists from all over the globe.

As a mother and a grandmother, I want to ensure that our Nation's children are swimming and enjoying our beaches that are safe and free of any harmful contamination. Unfortunately, a recent EPA report found that human health studies over the last 50 years have linked swimming and polluted water with significant adverse health effects. Swimming- related diseases can range from minor gastrointestinal diseases to more serious illnesses such as meningitis or hepatitis.

This is extremely troubling and is a great concern to all of us. According to the National List of Beaches, only 57 percent of the Nation's coastal recreation areas are being monitored.

In my home State of California, 114 of our 356 beaches are not monitored, leaving a huge amount of people at risk. That is why I would like to thank Representative Pallone for his work on such an important piece of legislation, legislation that builds on the ambitious vision that the 1972 Clean Water Act set forth.

As an original author of the 2000 bill, my friend from New Jersey has long been recognized for his efforts to clean up our Nation's beaches.

I would also like to thank Representative Tim Bishop for his leadership and work on this issue.

The Beach Protection Act builds on the great effort of the original BEACH Act and is a vital tool that will help ensure the safety of our national coastal treasures. Under the 2000 BEACH Act, the EPA was required to work with States to ensure they use the latest science to test beach waters to protect the public health.

States are required to notify the public if tests showed water quality standards were violated. The law also helps States set up monitoring and notification programs in order to provide up-to-date information on the condition of all public beaches.

H.R. 2537, the Beach Protection Act of 2007, advances the good work of the original act and takes us into the next generation of water monitoring. The bill increases the authorization through 2012 for the EPA's beach program by $10 million to $40 million per year. This money will be used to provide grants to States along the coasts and Great Lakes for recreational water monitoring and notification programs.

H.R. 2537 also clarifies and enhances public notification when coastal waters are likely contaminated. Visitors to our beaches need to know when there is potential threat to their health. The bill clarifies that the public must be notified within 24 hours when a contaminated water sample is found. The bill also requires that a physical sign must be posted at any beach where the water may be contaminated. This information is essential for public awareness and avoidance of harmful pollutants.

H.R. 2537 also promotes increased compliance. It requires the EPA administrator to conduct an annual review of implementation by State and local governments. If the public is not being protected, it requires the EPA to take corrective actions.

Representative Pallone has shown tremendous leadership with this bill that puts public safety at the forefront and goes to great lengths to protect our Nation's beaches. I know he has worked closely with my friend and colleague, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson, who chairs the Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.

Later today we will debate the chairwoman's manager's amendment that directs the EPA to complete and use a rapid-testing technology. This type of testing is intended to shorten the period between when a water sample is taken and when results are made public. When this testing is in place, the period of time necessary for testing coastal waters is likely to shorten from 24 to simply 2 or 3 hours.

Passage of the Beach Protection Act of 2007 is an important step to promoting public health and ensuring that the millions of people who visit our coastal treasures remain safe.

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

Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring us back to the measure at hand which is H. Res. 1083 which provides for consideration of H.R. 2537, the Beach Protection Act of 2007, and I would like to yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Castor), a member of the Rules Committee.

Mr. Speaker, I thought we were doing a rule and not special orders right now.

We are working on the rule for the beaches, and we want to keep Americans safe from water pollutants.

I want to say we have an obligation to ensure Americans are safe and healthy, and this act would do it.

I reserve my time.

Mr. Speaker, I would inquire of the gentleman if he has any remaining speakers.

I reserve.

I reserve.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Florida, and I yield myself the balance of my time.

First, let me say that there is no need to open up more sensitive natural areas to drilling. The United States has 3 percent of the world's resources but 25 percent of the demand. It is obvious that there is no way for us to drill our way to energy independence.

If we are really concerned about lowering energy costs and reducing dependence on foreign oil, we need to invest in renewable resources, and we have passed legislation to do just that.

The open rule before us today is a fair rule that allows for debate on the important issues that face our country, from water pollutants to public health concerns. It is Congress' responsibility to set high standards and assert proper oversight of these issues.

The underlying bill, H.R. 2537, takes huge steps to promote public health throughout the great beaches of our country and ensure that our beaches will be preserved for future generations to enjoy and benefit from.

Congress has a distinct obligation to future generations to keep our water clean and preserve our beaches. This bill increases funding for States to effectively monitor the coasts, ensure swift public notification and takes us into the next generation of water monitoring. We have a commitment to keep the millions who visit our beaches safe and informed. This bill does just that, and I urge its adoption.

Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on the previous question and on the rule.

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

The previous question was ordered.

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

Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Madam Speaker, as the Sacramento River Cats 2008 home opener approaches, I rise in tribute of their 2007 season in which they won the Pacific Coast League and the Triple-A Championship. The River Cats capped their season off in impressive fashion winning 7 straight playoff games to clinch the title. Upon sweeping the New Orleans Zephyrs to win the Pacific Coast League championship, Sacramento laid their claim as outright Triple-A champions by defeating the Richmond Braves in the second annual Bricktown Showdown, a one game playoff between tbe Pacific Coast Champion and the International League Champion. I ask all of my colleagues to join with me in saluting the triumphant 2007 Sacramento River Cats.

The River Cats remarkable playoff run began when they clinched the Pacific Coast League Southern Division by finishing the regular season with a record of 84-60. Despite falling behind two games to none against Salt Lake City in the playoff's first round, the River Cats came back to win the next three games. Using that positive momentum, the River Cats quickly beat the New Orleans Zephyrs in three games, winning the Pacific Coast League title for the third time in 5 years. The series final game was seen before a spirited and sellout crowd of 14,414 fans at Sacramento's Raley Field.

The 2007 Sacramento River Cats exuded resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being a revolving door that allowed their parent affiliate, Major League Baseball's Oakland A's, to replenish their injured roster, the River

Cats overcame more then 180 roster changes to win the championship. This meant that they accomplished the feat by receiving contributions from numerous and sometimes unlikely sources. No one epitomized this more than Nick Blasi, who spent much of the season with Class-A Stockton before becoming a playoff catalyst and the Pacitic Coast League's Series MVP. Blasi hit a remarkable .457 in the playoff.

Throughout this roster shuffle, every member of the 2007 River Cats demonstrated outstanding commitment to team play and hard work. Manager Tony DeFrancesco once again was the steady mentor for his young and ever changing roster that featured some of baseball's brightest prospects who are destined to become the stars of tomorrow. The roster was anchored by contributions from now major leaguers: Daric Barton, Kurt Suzuki and Santiago Casilla, as well as prospects Jason Perry, J.J. Furmaniak and Brad Knox.

Under the leadership of President and CEO Art Savage the River Cats players reaffirmed the front offices commitment to the people of Sacramento. On the Opening Day of the season, the River Cats unveiled their Mario Encarnacion Humanitarian Award which will annually honor a young student athlete who shows a commitment to his or her teammates and classmates. Furthermore, the River Cats Foundation has been providing support to Sacramento nonprofits that assist with youth and family activities. The River Cats commitment to the community was reciprocated by the Sacramento fans, as the River Cats led the Pacific Coast League in attendance for an astounding 8th year in a row. Around 710,000 fans attended River Cats 71 home contests this year, and since beginning play at Raley Field in 2000, the River Cats have drawn over 6,000,000 fans.

Madam Speaker, as the River Cats prepare for another successful season, I am honored to pay tribute to the many hard-working men and women of the River Cats organization who brought so much joy and pride to the people of Sacramento. Their successes are highly commendable. I ask all my colleagues to join one in celebrating the River Cats 2007 championship season.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to announce that my constituent, Laurie Dishman has been selected by the Victim's Rights Caucus to receive the Unsung Hero Award.

Laurie is a remarkable young woman, who found the strength and courage to fight on behalf of others after she was a victim of a violent crime on a cruise ship. Laurie shared her story with me in a letter two years ago.

As a passenger on board a ship operated by Royal Caribbean, Laurie was raped by a crew member. The story of her ordeal on the ship was shocking and the response by the cruise industry was even more appalling.

Laurie was brave enough to report the incident to the crew authorities, even though they treated her poorly and with little sensitivity. She also reported the crime to the FBI. Unfortunately, the U.S. Attorney's office declined the case or prosecution just four days later.

I have since learned that there have been no convictions for rape cases on cruise lines in four decades. This statistic takes on a new meaning through the lens of Laurie's experience.

Laurie has devoted herself to a public awareness campaign to ensure that the cruise industry is held accountable for their lax security onboard cruise ships.

She has done television shows including The Montel Williams Show, the Morning Show, Inside Edition, and numerous others. She also has done radio interviews for the BBC and other international news organizations to send out her message. As the focus of numerous expose pieces about safety concerns on cruise ships, Laurie was profiled for stories in the Los Angeles Times and the San Francisco Chronicle.

She was also brave enough to testify at a Transportation and Infrastructure, Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee hearing on Crimes on Cruise Ships. At the hearing she spoke of her experience and also ways to improve prevention methods, including: peep holes and security latches on stateroom doors; instituting sensitivity training for crew members: and ensuring more CCTV cameras in hallways.

After the hearing, I introduced the Protect Americans from Crimes on Cruise Ships Resolution on September 17, 2007, with Reps. Christopher Shays and Carolyn Maloney. The resolution now has over thirty cosponsors.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee held a follow-up hearing on September 19, 2007. We heard from other victims who were raped or assaulted on cruise ships. Laurie attended the full-day hearing and provided support for the women who testified and their families. Since then she has continued to attend meetings with the cruise industry, provide interviews and insight to our office on the progress, or lack thereof, of the cruise industries safety standards.

On April 8, 2008 Laurie testified in front of the California State Senate regarding a bill to require Ocean Rangers on cruise ships. ``These Ocean Rangers will help to make sure that there are trained personnel who can respond to a reported crime, and that there is an advocate for a crime victim who is not employed by the cruise lines.

I am also working on introducing it bicameral, comprehensive cruise safety reform bill that is informed by two years of research and two Congressional hearings, but at its heart, addresses the concerns brought to our office two years ago by Ms. Dishman.

Laurie embodies the spirit of an unsung hero. She does all of this without acclaim, but because she feels compelled. Laurie has helped lead a campaign of awareness about safety concerns on cruise ships. We all know that crimes can only be prevented when we are aware of the chance for them to occur.

Laurie has taken leadership and shown strong determination throughout this ternble personal experience. I have been very proud to be by her side in this effort, to ensure safety on cruise ships by informing the public of their risks.

Because of her visibility and strength, other victims have been able to tell their stories. As a result, we have been able to garner public awareness and support for our efforts towards oversight and better public policy.

I applaud Laurie for her heroic work during these last two years. I nominated her for the Victim's Rights Caucus Unsung Hero Award. It is an honor to recognize her today for her important contributions to ensuring the safety of the over 10 million women and families across the country that cruise each year.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5492) to authorize the Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution to construct a greenhouse facility at its museum support facility in Suitland, Maryland, and for other purposes.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5492, which is a bill to authorize appropriations for the Smithsonian for constructing of replacement greenhouses.

Mr. Speaker, the Smithsonian is widely renowned as a national treasure. Many of our constituents come from all over the country to visit its museums. There they can explore our culture, learn about our achievements, and view pieces of our history.

But the Smithsonian is much more than a keeper of artifacts. It has nine research facilities and is a leader in scientific research. The Horticulture Services Division provides a wide variety of services internally to Smithsonian museums, and more generally to the public through the Smithsonian's public gardens.

The Smithsonian has leased a 55,000-square-foot greenhouse complex for its horticultural operations since 1974. It is currently located on the property of the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Northwest Washington, DC.

The complex includes 12 greenhouses, an office for administrative and logistical functions, and a shade house. These greenhouses produce the institution's world-class orchid collection. They also provide space to grow a wide variety of plant materials for exhibits, gardens, and special events which would be costly or impossible to obtain commercially.

The greenhouses allow the Smithsonian resources equal to, if not surpassing, any other botanical institute in the world.

The greenhouse employees do this work with limited human resources. As true to most Smithsonian endeavors, the greenhouse staff is assisted in large part by a group of dedicated volunteer staff members. During fiscal year 2007, over 4,500 hours of time were donated by these individuals. Their commitment to the greenhouse facilities' programs is evident from their dedication, some of whom have donated over 25 years of service to the organization.

The current greenhouse site will be leased commercially, and the Smithsonian must begin work on replacement greenhouses at the Smithsonian Museum Support Facility in Suitland, Maryland. Moving the facilities is the most cost-effective way to preserve the greenhouses. The Smithsonian has also created a design that will help save money during construction.

Mr. Speaker, the important work being done every day by the Smithsonian horticulturists in the current facility is vital to the mission of the Smithsonian, the increase and diffusion of knowledge.

I appreciate Chairman Oberstar, Chairwoman Norton, and Ranking Members Mica and Graves for recognizing the significance of this relocation. H.R. 5492 will ensure that the collections thrive and the important work that is done at these facilities continues. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, once again I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5492, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 1015 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Madam Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart). All time yielded during consideration of this rule is for debate only.

General Leave

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members be given 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks on House Resolution 1015.

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

House Resolution 1015 provides for consideration of House Resolution 2857, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education, or GIVE, Act under a structured rule. The rule provides 1 hour of general debate controlled by the Committee on Education and Labor. The rule waives all points of order against consideration of the bill except clauses 9 and 10 of rule XXI. The rule makes in order the Education and Labor Committee-reported substitute as an original bill for the purpose of amendment.

The rule makes in order 11 amendments, which are listed in the Rules Committee report accompanying the resolution. Each amendment is debatable for 10 minutes. The rule also provides one motion to recommit, with or without instructions.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of a vital piece of legislation, legislation that directly affects all of our communities and the lives of millions of Americans; legislation that strengthens our communities, helps educate our future generations, teaches our youth to prepare for and respond to unthinkable tragedies, and fosters the growth of respect and compassion throughout our entire society.

The Corporation for National Community Service estimates that in 2006 the national service participants provided the Nation with nearly $4 billion worth of service projects. The GIVE Act reauthorizes our country's investment in community service and volunteerism.

As co-chair of the National Service Caucus, it is a pleasure to call attention to the tremendous work of those involved at every level and in every program of the corporation.

Madam Speaker, service and volunteerism are the bedrock of our emergency preparedness and national security. In times of strife, the American people have always shown a spirit of service and ingenuity. Investing in service and volunteer programs prepares us to handle any crisis. We must focus on building our national capacity, and harnessing the enterprising spirit of the American people is a good way to do so. In the wake of a catastrophe, a first responder is likely to be a civilian. A neighbor is likely to be the first one to provide assistance. By building up our service and volunteer programs, we are taking proactive steps to bolster our national security and capability to weather a disaster now and in the years to come.

We saw firsthand the importance of having trained volunteers in the wake of the 2005 hurricanes. These forever changed thousands of lives and communities in the gulf coast. We watched as men and women mourned their loved ones and remembered the lives they once had. We also witnessed an outpouring of support and compassion from individuals who were touched by this immense tragedy.

Following the devastation in the gulf coast, more than 92,000 national service volunteers contributed over 3.5 million hours of service to the recovery effort. They repaired neighborhoods. They rebuilt lives. Our national service participants have also applied their expertise towards training local community volunteers, further expanding the network of effective workers to 260,000 people.

The assistance from volunteers following the devastating storms represents only one example of the many accomplishments that our service volunteers achieve every single day. Through programs such as AmeriCorps State and National, Volunteers in Service to America, and National Civilian Community Corps, AmeriCorps volunteers address critical needs in our communities.

When I am home in Sacramento, I am reminded by my constituents of the great work done by AmeriCorps NCCC volunteers. AmeriCorps NCCC members are disaster trained and available for immediate deployment in the event of a natural disaster anywhere within the United States, as they were to the gulf coast. In fact, NCCC teams have responded to every national disaster since the program was established.

Over $26 million worth of hurricane recovery resources have come from AmeriCorps NCCC alone, which is more than we spent on the entire program nationwide. This is quite a return on our investment.

The GIVE Act will strengthen the emergency preparedness and response training of our country's NCCC participants. The changes will also help the program continue to grow. Recently, the corporation added two new campuses, one in Iowa and one in Mississippi.

The GIVE Act recognizes the work of every volunteer in this country. It seeks to reach out to more people to greatly expand the number of volunteers across this country. Our bill will expand AmeriCorps membership from 75,000 to 100,000 by 2012. The bill seeks to tap the growing pool of baby boomers reaching retirement that wish to continue serving their country by lowering the age of participation in Senior Corps to 55 from 60 years old. Equally important is that the bill harnesses the energy of future generations in addition to the baby boomers.

Engaging our youth early on is vitally important to the safety of our communities and the lives of our children. The Summer of Service program

will ensure that students making the transition from middle to high school have an opportunity to participate in service programs. By increasing the education award, the bill allows young service participants to apply the skills that they learn in volunteerism to a successful education. The benefits of service will continue to accrue to volunteers even after they complete their service.

Madam Speaker, as a result of the great work of the AmeriCorps members, extraordinary things are happening all over America. The corporation supports such important nonprofit organizations as Habitat for Humanity, City Year, and Red Cross.

National service participants have built homes, healed wounds, and taught elementary school kids. These volunteers are part of the backbone of our country. With very little funding, service participants leverage millions of dollars and perform crucial work in classrooms, national parks, and areas of our Nation hit by disaster.

As a result, I hope my colleagues will support the rule and the underlying legislation. The spirit of service that is so important to all of our communities is one that should be encouraged and supported.

Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

I would like to inquire of the gentleman from Florida if he has any remaining speakers.

Madam Speaker, first, I would like to say that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act continues to give the intelligence community the tools it needs to monitor terrorists. The government always has the option of tapping targets immediately and returning to the FISA Court within 72 hours to obtain an order.

My constituents and those of other Members of Congress view the protection of civil liberties as one of their top priorities. The American people want us to do our representational duty to uphold the Constitution and deliberate on this issue. We are working hard to ensure that our national security needs are met as our constitutional rights are protected.

Now we are working to support national service in our country, which helps our communities respond to disasters and also encourages our youth to engage in civic participation. Last year, I had the pleasure of meeting with Tatiana, a strong and determined young woman from Sacramento, my hometown, who received an award for CorpsMember of the Year. When Tatiana was just 15, her mother was incarcerated, and later, she was expelled from high school. Meeting with her and hearing her story of how she used the local Conservation Corps to turn her life around was truly inspiring.

This reauthorization takes programs and infrastructure that have touched so many lives, such as Tatiana, and builds off its foundation to greatly increase the quality and quantity and improve national service. National service is a proven return on our investment. With this bill, we will broaden those involved in service, and in doing so, foster the values of civic engagement and duty that can change a life and also draw upon the lessons of guidance and wisdom of our seniors that only a lifetime of experience can provide.

This bipartisan legislation makes excellent improvements to an already successful Federal agency. It improves access and support for organizations and grant applicants, and most importantly, reassures our valued volunteers that Congress supports them and their work. I urge a ``yes'' vote on the previous question and on the rule.

The material previously referred to by Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida is as follows:

Amendment to H. Res. 1015 Offered by Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart of Florida

At the end of the resolution, add the following:

Sec. 3. ``That upon adoption of this resolution, before

consideration of any order of business other than one motion

that the House adjourn, the bill (H.R. 3773) to amend the

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a

procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign

intelligence, and for other purposes, with Senate amendment

thereto, shall be considered to have been taken from the

Speaker's table. A motion that the House concur in the Senate

amendment shall be considered as pending in the House without

intervention of any point of order. The Senate amendment and

the motion shall be considered as read. The motion shall be

debatable for one hour equally divided and controlled by the

Majority Leader and the Minority Leader or their designees.

The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the

motion to final adoption without intervening motion.''

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

Madam Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

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

I rise today to offer a bipartisan amendment to the GIVE Act. The Matsui-Shays amendment makes needed changes to national service and carries with it broad support. Our amendment will combine the two separate State competitive funds and national competitive funds into one singular funding pool. This change will improve national service efficiency and effectiveness, while increasing collaboration between State and national interests.

Every year organizations and the individuals they support are turned away from the grants they need because of high demand or simple administrative burdens. The current funding formula gives approximately one-third of the funding to the States based on population, approximately one-third to State competitive grants, and approximately one-third to a national competitive funding pool. Under the current formula, a high demand for State competitive grants means that State grant applicants are turned away even if there are resources still available in the national pool and vice versa.

Additionally, these deserving nonprofits and community service organizations spend far too many of their valuable resources navigating a confusing applications process and managing multiple grants. If this amendment passes, these precious resources will now be used to better serve their communities.

At its heart the amendment ensures that grants are competitively distributed based on merit and that resources are used in the most efficient and effective manner.

I hope that all of my colleagues will join Congressman Shays and myself, as well as the Governor-appointed State service commissions, national service organizations, leading nonprofits, and Members from both sides of the aisle in support of this valuable amendment.

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

Mr. Chairman, at this point I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy), the chairwoman of the subcommittee.

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

Mr. Chairman, again I urge my colleagues to support the Matsui-Shays amendment.

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

I thank the gentlewoman from Florida for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin today by thanking my colleagues, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Ramstad. Their advocacy on this issue has been truly remarkable.

We held a field hearing in my district last year on mental health. It provided my constituents with a forum for important dialogue about an issue that affects millions of Americans.

Mr. Speaker, anyone who has had a family member with a mental illness knows how difficult living with the disease can be for everyone involved. They also know one thing above all else: physical illness and mental illness are equally painful and equally challenging. In many ways, mental health patients suffer more because our insurance system discriminates against them. That is why this legislation is so important, because it is about people, people who struggle with mental illness every day and every night, people who suffer in silence without a doctor's help because their insurance will not cover mental health or addiction treatments.

This House has the chance to demonstrate its compassion and commitment to these people, Mr. Speaker. With one vote, we can put behind us the false conception that mental illness is not as serious as cancer or diabetes or many other diseases covered by health insurance plans.

On the contrary, mental illnesses are some of the most serious health conditions we face. The battle against them has been enormously difficult for millions of families across our Nation.

It has been tough, but this is a battle that we must win, Mr. Speaker. With mental health parity, it is a battle we can and will win.

Again, I thank Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Ramstad for their courageous commitment to this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 1001 and ask for its immediate consideration.

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

This point of order is about whether or not to consider this rule and ultimately the underlying bill. In fact, I would say that it is simply an effort to try to kill this bill before we even have an opportunity to debate it. I hope my colleagues will vote ``yes'' on this procedural motion so we can consider this important legislation today.

Mr. Speaker, H.R. 5351 is about investing in clean, renewable energy and energy efficiency. It is about boosting our economy and national security while protecting our environment.

It is abundantly clear that our dependence on foreign oil has skyrocketed with much of it imported from the volatile Middle East with a price tag today of $102 a barrel. It's time to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, not only to strengthen our national security but to support domestic production of renewable energy. We need to take action now and start by considering and passing the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax bill today.

This bill is about the hardworking American families. It is about creating jobs for the American worker and about protecting their rights. If we are creating jobs in this bill, which we are, we should be making sure that workers are making prevailing wages.

The Davis-Bacon Act requires contractors to pay no less than the locally prevailing wage on Federal contract construction. Davis-Bacon was adopted in 1931, during the Hoover administration, to protect the rights of the American workforce. During the more than 70 years since its enactment, Davis-Bacon has come under fire many times but has always received support from the Congress and American families who benefit from it.

The Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act addresses the priorities of the American people. In addition to tackling our energy crisis, H.R. 5351 complies with PAYGO rules, which is a priority of the 110th Congress. The bill is therefore paid for. Most of the funding is by reducing tax cuts to the top-earning oil companies. In order to pay for the important tax extensions and comply with PAYGO, there had to be revenue raisers. Our country is facing record deficits, and this Congress is acting responsibly.

This bill will develop a progressive energy policy that is long term, not shortsighted. It does away with the tired strategies of the past, which focused only on producing more oil at the expense of the environment and of the American taxpayer. We are heeding the calls of the American people by adopting it.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I would like to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Boswell).

(Mr. BOSWELL asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

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

Again, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to consider so we can debate and pass this important piece of legislation today.

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

Mr. Speaker, for the purpose of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Lincoln Diaz- Balart). All time yielded for consideration of the rule is for debate only.

General Leave

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to insert extraneous material on the resolution.

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

Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 1001 provides for consideration of H.R. 5351, the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008 under a structured rule. The rule provides 90 minutes of debate on the bill, equally divided and controlled by the Committee on Ways and Means. The rule makes in order an amendment in the nature of a substitute printed in the Congressional Record if offered by Representative McCrery or his designee. The substitute amendment is debatable for 1 hour. The rule also provides for one motion to recommit the bill, with or without instructions.

Mr. Speaker, today's debate is quite simple: It is about taking action on an important priority of the American people. It is about investing in renewable energy, which will chart a new direction for our country's energy policy. This bill will ensure that hardworking Americans can buy affordable energy that is environmentally sound. It restores balance to our energy policy after years of favoring Big Oil.

Mr. Speaker, hardworking American families are struggling to pay their bills in an uncertain economy. They face the growing cost of basic necessities, such as gasoline and heating oil. This is a direct result of rising oil prices.

As Members of Congress, we have a responsibility to protect our constituents from big oil companies and countries that are taking advantage of working families. The Renewable Energy and Energy Tax Conservation Act restores balance to our energy policy. For years, we have had a tax structure that favors huge oil companies over the American family.

Mr. Speaker, I believe the facts speak for themselves. Oil costs today rose to $102 a barrel for the first time in history. It is more expensive for Americans to drive their kids to school, to go to the grocery store, to heat their homes, and to vacation with their families. Americans are paying more than ever to fill up their cars, and big oil companies are reaping the profits.

In my home State of California, the price of gasoline is more than double what it was when this administration came into office. Last year, ExxonMobil posted the largest profit in American history, nearly $40 billion to one company. This equation is simple: Americans pay more; oil companies make more. This is unacceptable for the families we represent.

Unfortunately, it is perfectly acceptable for our President. This is a President who said that we don't need incentives for oil and gas companies to explore. That was back when the price of oil was $55 per barrel. It is now almost double that. It is obvious that any system that rewards the top earning oil companies and neglects our constituents and the environment ignores the priorities of the American people.

Mr. Speaker, today's legislation will correct this inequity. It will transfer some of the massive profits enjoyed by these oil companies and invest them in renewable resources that will power our economy in the future.

Our scientists have been hard at work researching ways to harness the powerful assets of our planet. We can have a healthy economy even as we preserve our natural resources and our skies. Solar, wind, and geothermal technologies are ready for the mainstream. Our legislation will help get them there.

In the case of solar, we are not just creating new incentives. We are extending successful tax breaks that have helped these industries get off the ground. Our legislation will allow public agencies to issue bonds to pay for clean energy projects. Some of the most effective public energy agencies in the country have put this provision at the top of their priority list.

This bill envisions a future where our country is no longer beholden to the oil market. It will dramatically pump up our domestic production of renewable fuels, such as biodiesel and cellulosic alcohol. The bill also contains a tax break to increase the number of alternative refueling stations so that Americans have options to fill up on the next generation of fuels.

This legislation recognizes that we can and must create the technologies today that we will use in the future. It harnesses our inventive American spirit to tackle our energy problems. It creates a sliding-scale tax incentive for consumers to purchase plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. It encourages investment in solar fuel cells and harnesses the power of cutting-edge technologies that produce energy from landfill gas and marine sources.

It builds on the desire of the American people for a more balanced and progressive energy policy. Making our homes and buildings more energy efficient is one of the most cost-effective ways to save money and power.

Our legislation contains significant incentives for efficiency programs. These changes will save money for constituents in the short and long run. They will also help preserve jobs. If tax incentives for wind and solar production are not extended, 116,000 American jobs will be lost. The legislation before us is critical to the health of our economy.

Most important, though, is that this legislation builds on the desire of the American people for a more balanced and progressive energy policy. The American people want us to take action to modernize our energy supply, and that is what we are doing. This bill will also help to lessen our dangerous dependence on oil from unstable parts of the world.

Earlier this month, our energy markets were disturbed by rumors that Venezuela was cutting off oil shipments. Events like these are a stark reminder that even though we are the strongest country in the world, we are also very vulnerable.

The short-sighted energy policy of the past is undermining our national security. We will only get weaker unless we change course now and invest in renewable fuels that are produced here at home, not in countries that wish us harm.

This House has heard the message that the American people have been sending us for a long time. We must overhaul our energy policy, and this bill is the second step toward this goal. We took the first step late last year when Democrats reached across the aisle. We worked in a bipartisan manner to pass the first increase in fuel economy standards in decades.

We could have done even more to restore balance to our energy policy.

Many of the provisions in today's bill were a part of last year's energy legislation passed by this House. But we were stymied by Republican obstructionism in the Senate.

I am one of the millions of Americans who want to see us do even more. People like Luquita Hutchinson from my hometown of Sacramento. She and her family are the reasons we must chart a new course forward here today.

Because of trying to balance her household budget, Luquita has stopped buying meat at the grocery store because she has to pay so much for gas at the pump. Today, in Sacramento, it's $3.35 a gallon. She has to make a choice between buying food for her family or filling up her gas tank.

It is for the sake of people like Luquita that I encourage my colleagues to support the legislation on the floor today. This bill makes us safer by reducing our dependence on foreign oil. It protects the pocketbooks of hardworking Americans like Luquita Hutchinson, and it transforms our energy policy to maximize the benefits of clean, affordable, and renewable energy. If we pass today's bill, this kind of clean energy future is within our grasp.

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

Mr. Speaker, before I yield to my next speaker, I would like to say to the gentleman that this is a very fair rule. It allows extra debate time so that all Members have a chance to speak.

As is usual for a tax bill, we allowed a Republican substitute amendment to be made in order. Unfortunately, the Republican substitute amendment offered during the Rules Committee did not meet PAYGO requirements. The minority had the opportunity to submit the substitute if they wanted, but they did not.

With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield 3\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida, a member of the Rules Committee, Ms. Castor.

Mr. Speaker, before I yield to the next speaker, I would just like to say, unfortunately, it is ironic that the minority is coming to the floor with this issue yet again, especially since the minority has refused to come to the table as we are trying to work out the differences between the House and Senate versions. Yes, we have been trying to move forward with the negotiations, but the minority has not been willing to participate.

I would also like to remind my colleagues that one of the most destabilizing forces in the world is the competition for declining oil resources in the world. When we break our dependence on foreign oil with this bill today, we will be safer and our country will be better positioned to respond to the threats we face.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New York, a member of the Rules Committee, Mr. Arcuri.

Mr. Speaker, before I yield time to our next speaker, first I would like to say that the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act continues to give the intelligence community the tools it needs to monitor terrorists. The government always has the option of tapping targets immediately and returning to the FISA Court within 72 hours to obtain an order.

Additionally, any surveillance gathered before the expiration of the Protect America Act is in place for 1 year. The FISA Court backlog has been cleared, and the intelligence community can and was always able to do its job.

I would like to remind my colleagues that we are considering the rule for the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mahoney).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Markey).

Mr. Speaker, I want to just say, as I said before, this is just to remind my colleagues that we are considering the rule for the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act today.

With that, I would like to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Inslee), a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

(Mr. INSLEE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Sestak).

Mr. Speaker, just before I yield to my next speaker, I just want to remind everyone that the Protect America Act expiration has not reduced our ability to conduct surveillance.

With that, I would yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer), a member of the Ways and Means Committee.

Mr. Speaker, I have one additional speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to a member of the Rules Committee, the gentleman from Vermont (Mr. Welch).

Mr. Speaker, today's debate is really about the future of our country. Those of us who think that American leadership can create new sources of clean energy will vote for this bill. Those of us who think that high oil prices, economic uncertainty, and dependence on foreign oil are good energy policy will vote against it.

I know where my loyalties lie in this debate. They lie with Americans who are struggling to find the money to drive their children to school. They lie with people in my State of California who are concerned about global warming. They lie with my constituents who want a new direction for energy policy. It is for them that I support this legislation today. It is for them that I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Voting for the Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act is a way to show our constituents that the energy policies of the past are no longer acceptable. The American people are challenging us to create a new strategy focused on renewable and affordable energy. Those of us who support today's bill are meeting that challenge.

I urge a ``yes'' vote on the previous question and on the rule.

The material previously referred to by Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart of Florida is as follows:

Amendment to H. Res. 1001

Offered by Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart of Florida

At the end of the resolution, add the following:

Sec. 4. ``That upon adoption of this resolution, before

consideration of any order of business other than one motion

that the House adjourn, the bill (H.R. 3773) to amend the

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to establish a

procedure for authorizing certain acquisitions of foreign

intelligence, and for other purposes, with Senate amendment

thereto, shall be considered to have been taken from the

Speaker's table. A motion that the House concur in the Senate

amendment shall be considered as pending in the House without

intervention of any point of order. The Senate amendment and

the motion shall be considered as read. The motion shall be

debatable for one hour equally divided and controlled by the

Majority Leader and the Minority Leader or their designees.

The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the

motion to final adoption without intervening motion.''

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

Madam Speaker, I am proud to introduce the ``Public Health Peparedness Workforce Development Act of 2008.'' This much- needed legislation will help provide the critical workers that our public health community so desperately needs.

These skilled public health professionals include the nurses, epidemiologists, lab technicians, and others who keep our communities healthy and safe. They deliver our vaccines, ensure that our drinking water is safe, test for infectious diseases, and serve as our front- line defense against biological and chemical attacks. The responsibilities of our public health workers reach into our daily lives.

Unfortunately, our country has under-invested in this critical area for decades, and our public health workforce is near the breaking point.

We are simply not producing or retaining enough public health workers to meet the increasing demand for their essential services. Nearly a quarter of the public health workforce is set to retire by 2012.

As a result, the Association of Schools of Public Health estimates that our country's public health schools would have to train three time the current number of graduates over the next 12 years just to maintain current levels of preparedness.

We cannot continue to underestimate or undervalue the importance of a strong public health system. As we focus on preventing outbreaks and attacks through preparedness and vigilance, we will rely ever more heavily on our public health workers.

However, public health positions are often not economically competitive with those offered by the private sector. We must create the proper incentives offered for our Nation's brightest public health graduates to serve in the public sector, and the Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development Act is a strong step toward doing so.

It offers scholarships, loan repayment programs, and mid-career training grants to recent public health graduates and to current

public health employees looking to supplement their education. It also creates an electronic clearinghouse to make it easier for workers to find available public health positions to the Federal Government.

Additionally, this bill will improve the training of public health workers and introduce many more of them to the field by spurring the creation of academic health departments. These departments, formed by the union of State and local health agencies with schools of public health, will serve as training grounds analogous to medical schools and teaching hospitals.

Closer coordination between academia and the people we charge with protecting the public welfare is essential to keeping our constituents safe from threats like avian flu, staph infections, and other public health challenges, By melding the academic and the practical, this legislation will significantly improve our ability to respond effectively to public health emergencies.

A strong and robust public health workforce is not a luxury, Madam Speaker. It is a necessity. The Public Health Preparedness Workforce Development all my colleagues to support it.

Madam Speaker, on February 19, this Nation will recognize the 66th anniversary of the ``Day of Remembrance.'' This was the day in 1942 that President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which led to the internment of over 120,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry.

The President's decision to intern Americans was an avoidable consequence of racial prejudice and wartime hysteria. The government at all levels was blinded by war, and made decisions that were contrary to our Constitution. The failure of each branch of government to uphold the rights of individuals must be taught so that future generations resist succumbing to the politics of fear.

Because of one of the darkest periods of our Nation's history, we learned of the damage that could be done when we let the politics of fear cloud our judgment. I hope every American will take this day to reaffirm their commitment to our Constitution and the rights and protections it guarantees for all of us. This commitment is a way to prevent such injustice from ever becoming a reality again.

Congress has not only recognized a Day of Remembrance, but it also supports and funds internment site preservation as the physical reminder of past inequality. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that future generations will be able to visit the internment camps to gain a better understanding of the previous generation's experience.

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. This act proves what is great about our country. When this act passed, our Nation formally acknowledged and apologized for violations of civil liberties and constitutional rights of over 100,000 interned Americans.

As we look back on a time in our Nation's history, and how our country has responded since, we should have hope for the future. Around the world, human rights violations continue unabated. Yet, we can combat this by working with a single purpose towards a future wherein every person, regardless of race, gender, nationality or creed enjoys equal treatment in this world.

And today, 66 years after the signing of Executive Order 9066, we must renew our commitment to bringing these rights to all people.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize many of Sacramento's outstanding businesses and business leaders that were honored at the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce's 113th annual dinner and business awards ceremony. The men and women that were honored last Friday 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.

Dave Lucchetti, president and chief operating officer of Pacific Coast Building Products was named ``Sacramentan of the Year.'' Besides running a highly successful, multi-faceted company, Dave is a true civic leader and this award could not go to a more deserving individual. He has donated his time to a number of worthy causes, including Big Brothers, Big Sisters, the Sacramento Region Community Foundation and the Wind Youth Center, among many others.

Winnie Comstock-Carlson was named ``Businesswoman of the Year'' for her exemplary work as president and publisher of ``Comstock's Magazine.'' The business magazine that she publishes was recently given the ``Best of the West'' award by the Western Publication Association. Tom Gagen, chief executive officer of Sutter Medical Center, was named ``Businessman of the Year,'' as Sutter Medical Center is undergoing a major expansion that will improve medical care for local residents for decades to come. E-VentExe, a human resources firm, led by Craig Stevenson was honored as Small Business of the Year.

Other awards that were given out include ``Volunteer of the Year'' to David Hosely, president and general manager of KVIE, our local public television station. Allen Warren, chief executive officer of New Faze Development, received the ``Al Geiger Award'' for his work as a role model for others to follow in investing is disadvantaged neighborhoods. The ``Peter McCuen Award of Civic Entrepreneurs'' went to Jim Williams of Williams and Paddon Architects. Jim recently served as co-chair of the region-wide economic development initiative Partnership for Prosperity. Burnie Lenau, owner of Lawnman Inc., was named the Metro Chamber's ``Ambassador of the Year.''

At the annual dinner four local companies were also inducted into the Sacramento Business Hall of Fame. Being inducted were Harbison-Mahony- Higgins Builders, Inc., John F. Otto, Inc., Golden One Credit Union, and the Niello Company. These companies literally build, finance, and drive the Sacramento region.

Also being honored was outgoing Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce board chairman John Lambeth. I have had the privilege of working closely with John on our region's flood protection needs and his leadership was greatly appreciated. An equally talented leader, Michael Jacobson of Intel Corporation, is the incoming board chairman. Michael has been a wonderful advocate on high-tech and workforce issues and I look forward to working closely with him.

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 their unwavering commitment to our region.

Madam Speaker, I rise in tribute to Albert Najera, Sacramento's outstanding police chief as he retires from the department he has spent the last 36 years serving. Chief

Najera rose through the department's ranks to become the city's police chief in 2003. As his friends, family and coworkers all gather to celebrate his farewell, I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring his leadership and many remarkable accomplishments.

Chief Najera is a native son to Sacramento. He was born and raised in Sacramento, and attended Luther Burbank High School before moving on to California State University, Sacramento, and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. Following his studies, Chief Najera joined the Sacramento Police Department on April 1, 1971. Najera started his career as a community oriented police officer and distinguished himself as a reliable and dedicated officer who would work tirelessly to protect the public.

On October 22, 2003, Chief Najera was appointed as Sacramento's 42nd Chief of Police. He inherited a department under tough circumstances and worked hard to remedy the difficulties. At the time of his installation, violent crime was on the rise, relations with the local union were strained and the department was experiencing an alarming rate of turnover. Chief Najera's leadership provided much needed stability and the city's police department has made tremendous progress under his tenure.

Chief Najera has often been lauded by officers for his hands-on and personable style. He has successfully rebuilt relationships between the community and the police department, while also raising the morale of his officers. Chief Najera has been a champion of attendance centers at local high schools to deal with chronic truants who otherwise might be caught up in gang-related crime. His leadership on this issue and efforts to curb gang activity are evident by the decline in homicides during 2007. Chief Najera led a crackdown in the previous summer that involved moving officers from other units into gang enforcement. This reorganization is evidence of Chief Najera's ability to reinvent the department under dire circumstances.

As chief, larger issues such as emergency preparedness also were on his mind. In June of 2007, Chief Najera was appointed to the Federal Emergency Management Agency's, FEMA, newly created National Advisory Council. The National Advisory Council was initiated to advise FEMA on all aspects of preparedness and emergency management in an effort to increase coordination with its partners across the country. Chief Najera's appointment to this critical position is evidence of his understanding of complexities of emergency management and homeland security.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the numerous contributions made by Sacramento Police Department Chief of Police Albert Najera during his 36 years with the department, and the last 4 as Chief. Chief Najera accession to the department's top post is a testament to his hard work and devotion to the city of Sacramento. I wish him, his wife, Barbara, and his daughter Alesandra continued success in his retirement. On behalf of the people of Sacramento and the Fifth Congressional District of California, I ask all my colleagues to join me in thanking my friend, Chief Najera for his public service as we wish him success in his future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Anne Moore's 10 years of service as chief of the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency. Anne leaves a lasting legacy in Sacramento and she will be deeply missed. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring one of Sacramento's finest public servants.

For three decades Ms. Moore has been a tireless advocate for affordable housing. She began her career with the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, SHRA, in 1985 and since then has helped to improve the lives of low-income people, seniors, the disabled and the homeless, across the greater Sacramento region. During her time with SHRA Ms. Moore also served as president of the California Redevelopment Association, CRA, Board. In addition, she has served on the Sacramento Workforce Investment Board, the Sacramento Downtown Partnership Board, the Del Paso Boulevard Partnership Board and Friends of Light Rail's Board of Directors. Ms. Moore's leadership and dedication to improving housing choices in Sacramento led to her appointment as executive director of SHRA in 1998.

During her time with SHRA, Ms. Moore has overseen many successful and award-winning projects that have improved neighborhoods and commercial areas, while preserving and creating affordable housing options for low-income residents of Sacramento. One of her most notable achievements was her leadership in transforming the former Franklin Villa neighborhood, which had been historically plagued by crime, drug activity and high unemployment into the award-winning Phoenix Park community. It is now a safe and affordable neighborhood for families and seniors. In addition, Ms. Moore has been instrumental in the development and implementation of a Ten-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness for the City and County of Sacramento. Ms. Moore has also been involved in partnering with community members to address unmet needs such as a full-service grocery store in the Oak Park neighborhood and successful development of new Boys and Girls Clubs in the Alkali Flat and Lemon Hill neighborhoods.

Ms. Moore's hard work and dedication to solving the problem of affordable housing in the Sacramento area resulted in an increase in affordable housing production in 2006. In addition, Sacramento has adopted nine redevelopment areas over the past 10 years and many of these areas have already seen great progress in being revitalized. In addition, Ms. Moore's efforts in administering the Housing Choice Voucher program, which provides safe and decent housing for more than 51,000 low-income individuals in Sacramento County, has increased housing assistance from 6,000 to 11,000 in the past decade. Personally, Ms. Moore has been a pleasure to work with. Her thoughtfulness and intelligence has helped allow many neighborhoods to thrive.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to Anne Moore's distinguished commitment to Sacramento and our housing needs. Ms. Moore's outstanding leadership and dedication to SHRA has helped preserve and improve many of our neighborhoods and has increased housing options for our low-income residents. We all are thankful for her efforts. As Ms. Moore's colleagues, family and friends gather to honor her service, I ask all my colleagues to join me in wishing her continued good fortune in her future endeavors.