Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4040--the Consumer Product Safety Modernization Act of 2007, not only as a Member of Congress, but as a grandmother as well. As I prepare to spend the holidays with my grandchildren, Anna and Robby, it makes me pause to consider how this legislation will benefit them and the children and grandchildren across the country. This year we have witnessed an unprecedented number of dangerous toys and products make their way to the shelves of American stores, resulting in thousands of recalls and Safety warnings. We cannot allow this trend of unsafe products in our homes to continue. Congress must act.

The bill before us today, which I am proud to co-sponsor, will improve the ability for the Consumer Product Safety Commission, CPSC, to protect the American public from unsafe products. The CPSC has the enormous

task of monitoring approximately 15,000 types of products. Over 27,000 deaths and 33 million injuries are associated with consumer products each year. We must ensure that the CPSC has the resources and authority necessary to ensure that the toys and products that we buy for our loved ones are safe. This legislation does precisely that.

The Consumer Product Safety Modernization Act takes a number of important steps to keep our children and grandchildren safe. For the first time, we will have a standard set for levels of lead in children's products. This will be one of the most rigorous standards in the world. It will also increase civil penalties against manufacturers of hazardous products, and establish a third-party certification and testing system for children's products. These and the many other provisions contained within H.R. 4040 will provide the CPSC with the tools required to monitor the evergrowing number of products under its jurisdiction.

Created in 1973 during the height of the consumer movement, the CSC was unfortunately downsized during the 1980s. It has never recovered from those changes, and has not been updated since 1990. Today's legislation will also expand the authority of the CPSC to ensure that only safe toys and products are in our stores and homes.

The CPSC exists to protect Americans from harmful products. We expect that consumer products have been adequately screened and deemed safe before they hit the shelves of our stores. Only by updating the CPSC and expanding its authority can it's mission be accomplished in today's globalized market. Public safety must always trump other concerns. The generations of lawmakers that have gone before us had the wisdom to invest in this agency, and it is now our responsibility to modernize and make long overdue improvements to the CPSC that will keep American families safe and restore faith in the agency.

I want to congratulate Chairman Dingell and the rest of the Energy and Commerce Committee for their hard work on this bill. The legislation that we are considering today has enjoyed strong bipartisan support, clearly demonstrated by its unanimous approval by the full committee. I hope that the House will come together in a similar bipartisan way to advance this important bill.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the men and women of the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District and the Sacramento City Fire Department that responded to the southern California fires. The devastating fires burned tens of thousands of acres over the course of the last 2 months. More than 20 local firefighters from Sacramento courageously worked to end these wild fires. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring and thanking some of our Nation's finest firefighters.

On October 20, 2007 the first of 15 fires began as a ranch fire in Los Angeles County's Angeles National Forest. The Santa Ana air stream caused wind speeds up to 100 miles per hour, combined with 95-degree temperatures. The combined wind, hot temperature, and severe drought conditions in southern California spread the fire across hundreds of thousands of acres. Over a 7 day period, nine people were killed, and at least 1 million people were evacuated. Thousands of businesses, homes, and structures were destroyed. To date the fire has caused more than $1 billion dollars in damage across San Diego, Orange, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Ventura, Riverside and Santa Barbara Counties.

The tireless work of these men and women was invaluable as they saved lives and property throughout the southern California region. The crews are a reflection of the positive contributions and selfless actions of our local firefighters. They responded to fires such as the ferocious Witch Creek Fire in Ramona, where crews grappled with flames more than 70 feet high and were exposed to conditions that included 70 mile per hour wind speeds. The horrific conditions were so dangerous that doors flew off hinges from burning structures. At times, pieces of burning roofs were carried by the winds, which forced firefighters to take cover. Crews worked around the clock for many days with as little as 30 minutes of rest. Their invaluable efforts helped save countless structures and homes that were in the line of fire.

In response to the crisis, Sacramento City Fire Department deployed Battalion Chief Craig Wiedenhoeft, Battalion Chief Niko King, Battalion Chief Jay Glass, Captain James Doucette, Captain Scott Visser, Engineer Sean Dail, Engineer Tom Malim, Firefighter Greg Murdock, Firefighter Dave Stork, and Firefighter Kyle Anderson.

Sacramento Metro Fire Department also deployed more than 40 firefighters. They included Deputy Chief Geoff Miller, Captain Darren Taylor, Captain Scott D. Cockrum, Captain Scott McKenney, Captain Michael Hazlett, Battalion Chief Richard Andersen, Captain James Vell, Engineer Jack Costello, Captain David B. Durham, Captain George E. Kruger, Jr., Engineer Phillip Allen, Engineer Tracey Valentine, Firefighter Ty J. Bailey, Firefighter Erik R. Rubalcava, Firefighter John Schanzenbach, Firefighter Kyle D. Thomas, Captain Steven C. Campbell, Captain Kiley Keeley, Engineer Jeffrey Harris, Engineer Brian M. Swindler, Firefighter Brad Reynolds, Firefighter Aaron S. Wham, Firefighter Tim J. Eisert, Firefighter Kenneth J. Harrington, Battalion Chief John Wagner, Battalion Chief Barry A. Flores, Captain Michael D. Veilleux, Captain William V. Lobsitz, Captain Christian Pebbles, Captain John P. Murakami, Captain Randolph E. Gross, Engineer Russell Powell, Engineer Charles E. Lynch, Engineer Ryan L. Maerklen, Engineer Maurice D. Johnson, Engineer Mark T. Stewart, Firefighter Phillip J. Hart, Firefighter Kevin R. Henson, Firefighter Chris A. Manos, Firefighter Carl F. Jewell, and Firefighter Mark T. Dunne.

Each of these brave men and women left their families and loved ones in Sacramento to place their own life on the line to save their fellow citizens from the horrific southern California wildfires. For their efforts, we all owe them our deepest appreciation. I am truly honored to represent such fine individuals and fire departments in Congress. Once again, I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking them for their unwavering dedication to our country during this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this historic and long-overdue legislation. Today's bill offers geopolitical and economic security, environmental sustainability, and significant cost savings for American consumers.

It is a strategy to fight global warming. It is a compromise that raises fuel efficiency standards. It is an investment in a new generation of manufacturing jobs.

This bill creates a world where American resources and ingenuity are used to make American energy, not to import it from other countries.

The bill raises CAFE standards for the first time since 1975. As a result, each American family could save up to $1,000 a year at the pump. That alone should be reason enough for every Member of Congress to support this compromise.

But today's bill does even more. It frees us from a dangerous dependence on foreign oil. By 2030, it will save Americans more than double the level of oil we currently import from the Persian Gulf That amounts to more than 4 million barrels saved every single day.

This energy package also invests in the American people by creating three million green jobs over 10 years.

With this bill, Mr. Speaker, we are forging an entirely new kind of economy--a clean energy economy. My hometown of Sacramento is the perfect example of a community that will contribute to this new energy economy.

We have a growing clean-energy industry that is poised to take off. Our local utility already produces power from solar, wind, and methane gas. More and more of our region's homes, businesses, and vehicles are powered by renewable energy.

However, my constituents need help from the Federal Government to bring this new energy economy into the mainstream.

That is why I am proud to stand before the House today in support of this revolutionary energy package. It makes landmark investments in the energy economy that is developing in Sacramento and in likeminded cities across our great Nation.

The biofuels this bill develops will power my constituents' cars. New fuel efficiency standards will help them save money on gas. They will work some of the millions of green-collar jobs it creates. This energy bill helps Sacramento continue to lead our country's energy revolution.

One of the cornerstones of this revolution is a renewable portfolio standard. My home State of California already has such a standard. So do more than 20 other States. I have seen this progressive policy in action, Mr. Speaker, and it has contributed greatly to my home State's groundbreaking efforts to increase the use of clean power and forestall global warming.

I am pleased that a renewable portfolio standard has been included in this comprehensive energy package. What works for our states can--and will--work for the entire country.

Mr. Speaker, in Congress we often talk about creating a better future for our children and grandchildren. Today's energy bill will create this better future. It is a future of energy independence, clean power, fuel-efficient vehicles, and economic growth.

I urge my colleagues to support the legislation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the staff and volunteers of the Cathedral Square Homeless Program and the services they provide in Sacramento. Two years ago representatives of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, Cathedral St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Downtown Partnership, the California State Association of Counties, and the Pyramid Alehouse created this innovative program to help find housing for those in need. Their spirit and dedication is evident in every life they touch. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring some of Sacramento's finest citizens and this wonderful program.

In 2005, local residents, churchgoers and business leaders saw that homeless men and women were sleeping on the steps of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in downtown Sacramento. They then counted that over 60 homeless people were sleeping on the downtown streets each night and decided to take action.

To help the less fortunate, the Cathedral Square Homeless program was created. Administered by the Cathedral St. Vincent de Paul Society and partnered by the Sisters of Mercy, the California State Association of Counties, the Downtown Partnership and the Pyramid Alehouse, the program began providing homeless individuals with a bed in a warm house, clothing, bus passes, food, and necessary tools to achieve a self-sufficient life. This program is designed to allow individuals to become self-sufficient in 3 months.

The efforts of the volunteers who make this program work are truly admirable, and they have had some remarkable success stories. A particular gentleman entered into the program right after its inception in December of 2005. He had been homeless for 7 long and trying years. With the help of the Cathedral Square Homeless Program he was able to have a steady place to live. He was given clean clothes and help with his transportation needs. That allowed him to have the stability to apply and interview for a variety of jobs. Within 3 months, he had secured a job and has been working ever since.

The Cathedral Square Homeless Program receives a great deal of support from the Sacramento community. The Sacramento Festival of Trees is a non-profit, interfaith, community-based volunteer organization that supports this program. This year, with the help of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, East Lawn Funeral Homes and Cemeteries, Sisters of Mercy, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the Downtown Partnership, the Interfaith Services Bureau, Westfield Downtown Plaza, and Westminster Presbyterian Church, they are hosting the first Festival of Trees and Lights. Community organizations have decorated and donated artificial holiday trees, which will be displayed during the festival. Members of the community will be invited to participate in a silent auction to purchase a tree for their home, office, or as a gift. All donations and proceeds will benefit the Cathedral Square Homeless Program.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Cathedral Square Homeless Program's unwavering commitment to the well-being of Sacramento's homeless. Over the past 2-years, their success stories have been truly inspiring. As members of the Sacramento community gather at the Festival of Trees and Lights fundraiser, I ask my colleagues to come together and honor the tireless dedication shown by the Cathedral Square Homeless Program's staff and volunteers in providing aid for those less fortunate.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Tina Thomas' years of service to the Sacramento area as a prominent attorney, philanthropist and community leader. Tina is transitioning from partner to ``of counsel'' at her law firm, Remy, Thomas, Moose and Manley. In doing so, Tina will now serve in an advisory capacity to the firm and have more time to assist local nonprofits. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring one of Sacramento's finest citizens.

Tina earned a bachelor's degree from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri in 1975 and her juris doctor degree from the University of San Diego in 1979. Later that year, she came to Sacramento. Before choosing to practice law full time, Tina served on the faculties of California State University, Sacramento and the Consortium of California State Universities and Colleges where she was an associate professor teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on the law, environment and planning related subjects.

In the late 1970s, Tina began her legal career as an intern for the Environmental Unit of the California Attorney General's office, and then in 1979 she was hired by a local environmental attorney Michael Remy. Together Tina and Michael formed a law firm that is now known as Remy, Thomas, Moose and Manley, where Tina and Michael worked together as partners until he passed away in 2003. Since its founding, Tina has served as the firm's managing partner, with clients that include governmental agencies, local businesses and environmental organizations. Along with her partners, Tina co-authored the Guide to the California Environmental Quality Act in 2006, a book now utilized by attorneys state wide.

In her spare time, Tina has served on numerous nonprofit boards in the Sacramento area. This includes the La Raza Galeria Posada, the Conservancy International and the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services. In addition, on a pro bono basis, Tina has represented many organizations including; WEAVE, Loaves and Fishes, Francis House and the WIND Center for Homeless Teens. Due to the support of generous individuals like her, programs such as these are able to continue to thrive, which in turn makes Sacramento a better place to live, work, and raise a family. For her dedication to the Sacramento community, Tina was named Sacramento County's ``Distinguished Attorney'' in 2005 by the Sacramento County Bar Association.

Personally, Tina has been a pleasure to work with and a true friend. Her compassion and spirit is a wonderful addition to the Sacramento community. She is a caring, smart and thoughtful individual, who always looks out for those in need and makes sure that their concerns are known by all who can help.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to my friend Tina Thomas. Tina is not only a dedicated community leader and attorney, but also is a loving mother to her children Libby, Mary Claire and Sam and wonderful wife to her husband, Bill Abbott. We all are thankful for her efforts. As Tina'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 this new capacity.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce a House Resolution recognizing commending the accomplishments of an outstanding Californian, Mr. Robert Carlson, upon his pending retirement from the board of administration of the California Public Employees Retirement System more commonly known as CalPERS.

Robert Carlson's distinguished career on the CalPERS board began in 1971 and will end on December 18th of this year after 36 years of devotion to the active and retired CalPERS members and their families.

Madam Speaker, on December 18th, the California Public Employees Retirement System, CalPERS, will honor Bob Carlson at its Sacramento headquarters. The event promises to be one filled with affection as CalPERS honors one of its longest serving and most beloved board of administration members.

Madam Speaker, allow me to briefly cite some of the many accomplishments and contributions of Mr. Carlson during his 36 years on the board of administration. In 1968, just prior to his initial election to the board, Mr. Carlson served as the president of the California State Employees Association, CSEA, and the first CSEA president to be elected to a second term in that position. Mr. Carlson has and continues to be a member of the California State Bar Association since 1952 after receiving his juris doctorate from the University of California, Hastings College of Law, where he was named Hastings Law School Alumnus of the Year in 1997.

During his outstanding career with CalPERS, Mr. Carlson has served 9 terms as the president of the board of administration and 5 years as its vice president. Furthermore, he has served as a member of every CalPERS board committee, where he has been considered one of the board's strongest advocates for retirees.

Madam Speaker, Mr. Carlson also led a successful effort in the California Assembly to gain passage of legislation giving CalPERS the authority to build its headquarters in Sacramento. He has been a strong voice in support of sound corporate governance principles and a champion for transparency, accountability and fulfilling CalPERS fiduciary responsibilities.

Mr. Carlson's hard work and contributions to CalPERS, its members and our State as a whole over the course of his career place him among the most distinguished citizens of our State. It is with a sense of appreciation and respect that I offer this resolution and request this body to consider it and pass it as expeditiously as possible.

Madam Speaker, I thank you and Members of this House for your attention to this important matter.

I thank the gentleman from New York for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule and the underlying legislation, the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act of 2007.

The subprime housing crisis is a real threat to our economy. It has already had a devastating impact on our families, our neighbors, and our communities. My home district of Sacramento ranks among the hardest hit areas in the country.

My district ranks fifth in the Nation in adjustable rate mortgages that are expected to reset to higher rates in the future, putting more homeowners at risk of foreclosures. Just last quarter, close to 4,000 homes were foreclosed upon. Without decisive action, this crisis will continue to threaten many more hardworking Americans. As property values continue to fluctuate, it has become harder for many borrowers who are currently locked into these so-called teaser rates to refinance to more affordable loans.

Mr. Speaker, this crisis has affected every aspect our economy. Coupled with the rising gas and heating prices, our country is entering into a very cold winter indeed. In response, the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates and produced more currency, which has further weakened the U.S. dollar to new lows, prompting inflation fears.

Mr. Speaker, we in Congress have a duty to address this crisis. Chairman Frank's bill is a step in the right direction. The bill establishes standards for home loans, while holding lenders and brokers accountable. The bill also prevents lenders and brokers from steering consumers to high-cost subprime loans just to make a quick extra buck.

Mr. Speaker, Congress needs to be a partner with the communities which we serve. We must work together to find a comprehensive strategy that will protect our homeowners.

I thank the gentleman from Florida for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, liberty and security are not mutually exclusive. Reliable intelligence is crucial for the defense of our Nation. Without it, we would not be safe. At the same time, civil liberties are a vital part of our national identity. Without them, we would not be free.

Our Founding Fathers understood that liberty and security complement each other. Unfortunately, this core premise has been muddled as we have debated FISA legislation. This legislation protects the people and the principles that we hold so dear in this country and it modernizes our Nation's intelligence laws to meet the technological demands of the 21st century.

I am especially pleased that the bill before us today provides such strong legal clarity. Without clear boundaries, intelligence officers will err on the side of caution. Strong legal footing not only protects our civil liberties; it also ensures that prosecutions will not be jeopardized.

Mr. Speaker, the American people also deserve disclosure of the data that has been surrendered to the government by the telecommunications industry. It is critical for Congress to be fully informed before making such an important decision as granting retroactive immunity. Brave men and women have sacrificed to protect the civil liberties and values that we hold most dear. We cannot and should not lightly brush their contributions aside. Instead, we must honor their memories by taking responsible action to protect two of the things that our constituents hold most dear, our freedom and our national security. Neither of these basic American values can exist without the other.

I will continue to support bills like the RESTORE Act that recognize this essential truth. I urge all my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Improving Head Start Act of 2007 Conference Report.

In 1964, President Lyndon Johnson laid out his domestic agenda, one that made Americans reevaluate what it means to be a Great Society. We learned much from that time in our Nation's rich history: that we must all fight together for civil rights, for equality, for peace and security, against poverty, and for future generations.

One year later, the Head Start program began as a product of Lyndon Johnson's vision of a Great Society. Now, over 40 years later, Head Start is truly one of our Nation's most successful programs.

Head Start takes a holistic approach to ensuring that our country's most at-risk children are educated and healthy. Kids who are vibrant and in school are put on a path to success. The program provides grants to local public and private agencies to offer comprehensive child development services to disadvantaged children and families.

I want to thank Chairman Miller and Chairman Kildee and all of the conferees for their important work on this conference agreement.

I am glad to see that this agreement authorizes 7.35 billion dollars for the program. Unfortunately, a number of residents in my hometown of Sacramento are eligible for enrollment in Head Start, but are currently on a waiting list because the program does not have enough funds. This funding authorization will help correct this urgent problem. It will help put Head Start back on track to ensuring that all eligible children will be able to participate in the program.

Also important is the expansion of the Early Head Start program. This program serves low-income youth from birth to age 3. It puts special focus on helping preschoolers develop the early reading and math skills they need to be successful in school. It recognizes that starting our children's education early is crucial to their long-term achievement.

The Conference Report also includes an increase in income eligibility. This is especially important in California due to my State's high cost-of-living. I want to thank the conferees for recognizing the growing needs in communities across the Nation by increasing income eligibility.

Study after study confirms that early education is the key to success later in life. And I am glad that Leadership has made educating our children a priority. With passage of this bill today, the 110th Congress indeed becomes the Children's Congress.

Mr. Speaker, no child should be without early education. The Head Start program provides access to education for all of our children, regardless of their parents' economic status.

As Lyndon Johnson said, ``The purpose of protecting the life of our Nation and preserving the liberty of our citizens is to pursue the happiness of our people. Our success in that pursuit is the test of our success as a Nation.''

I believe that reauthorizing the Head Start program reaffirms our commitment to the Great Society that Lyndon Johnson envisioned. I am proud to support the rule and the Head Start Improvement Act.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, today's debate is not about political calculation. It is not about public appearance or ready-made slogans. It is not about approval ratings or polls.

Today's debate is about the very future of this country that each one of us loves so dearly. It is a fork in the road. It is a rare opportunity for each of us to chart the course of the Nation we serve by casting a single vote.

Today we can vote for the status quo in Iraq or we can vote for change. For me, this choice is simple. I will vote for change.

The war in Iraq has divided our country for nearly 5 years, longer than our participation in World War II. Its monetary cost has already reached dizzying heights. Measured in casualties lost, lives forever altered, the toll of this war is truly staggering.

That is why we must transcend politics and party loyalty when we vote today. An issue of this magnitude requires each one of us as Members of Congress to vote based on our conscience and obligation to represent our constituents.

Mr. Speaker, on this issue my conscience and my constituents speak loud and clear. They say, We must end this war. Bring our troops home and work to restore our international reputation.

I stand here today in support of this rule and the underlying legislation because it accomplishes each of these three goals:

Within 30 days of enactment, it requires an immediate and orderly redeployment of our military from Iraq. No more delays, Mr. Speaker.

With today's bill, Congress stands with the American people in demanding a swift and responsible conclusion to military engagement in Iraq.

I also support this legislation because of what it does in the long term. It recognizes that we have a moral and strategic obligation to help rebuild Iraq, to avoid leaving a country in shambles.

The legislation before us today requires a comprehensive, diplomatic, political, and economic strategy for Iraq. We must work with our international partners to bring stability to Iraq, and this legislation does so. A renewed commitment to diplomacy is not only the right thing to do to fulfill our commitment to the Iraqi people, it also begins restoring our Nation's standing in the world.

I urge all of my colleagues to stand with the American people by voting for the bill before us today. This legislation takes a strong step forward in ending this long and costly war. In doing so, it is worthy of this House, worthy of the constituents we all serve, and worthy of the sacrifices of our soldiers and their families.

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

Mr. Chairman, I rise today to ask my colleagues to support the Murphy, Matsui, Bean and Larson amendment.

I am sponsoring this amendment because it carries forward important public policy initiatives. It encourages local governments to develop comprehensive land use and zoning plans that include natural hazard mitigation. It also requires participating States to adopt internationally recognized building code standards.

I applaud the overall goal of this bill to provide access to insurance coverage for homeowners and disaster-prone communities. Our amendment today is about public safety.

As a representative from Sacramento, the Nation's most at-risk river city for catastrophic flooding, I am all too familiar with risk and vulnerability. Preparedness is a first step toward public safety. Strong building codes are key to being prepared and to reducing the damage caused by catastrophic events. This amendment ensures that States take steps to minimize risk.

Last week, I introduced the Safe Building Code Incentive Act of 2007 to encourage States to adopt stronger building codes. Our communities and homeowners should be better prepared, and Congress should be setting high standards for public safety.

Over the last few weeks, residents of my home State of California experienced devastating wildfires and an earthquake. We know that another event will occur and that it is only a matter of time.

To rapidly growing regions around the country such as Sacramento, the building standards we adopt now will ensure a safer future for our communities and property owners.

In January 2006, a Louisiana State University Hurricane Center study concluded that wind-related damage to homes by Katrina could have been reduced by 65 percent if current building code standards had been used. In short, we should be elevating public policy standards before disaster impacts our communities, not after.

Our amendment today raises the standard for public safety and encourages smarter planning to mitigate risk. I ask my colleagues to support this amendment.

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

Madam Speaker, I was unavoidably absent from the House chamber for rollcall vote 1044. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 801 and ask for its immediate consideration.

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

General Leave

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

I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, House Resolution 801 provides for consideration of H.R. 3688, the United States-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act, under the closed rule required by the fast track law. The rule provides for a total of 3 hours of debate, equally divided by proponents and opponents of the underlying bill.

I rise today in support of the rule and the underlying legislation, H.R. 3688, the United States-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act. I want to congratulate Chairman Rangel, Chairman Levin and members of the Ways and Means Committee on bringing this trade agreement before us today.

Mr. Speaker, last week we passed legislation to help strengthen our current trade adjustment assistance program to protect American workers. Our country faces increased pressure as a result of globalization, and we must continue to reaffirm our commitment to the American workforce. It is evident that we need to change our current trade strategy.

At the same time, we must also acknowledge the positive impact that international trade has had on our economy. International trade currently accounts for a quarter of our gross domestic product.

Competition has proven to spur innovation and create new jobs. In my home State of California, we know that our IT companies need exports of semiconductor chips. Our farmers need the markets of Europe, Asia and Latin America. And our entertainment industry, financial services and telecom companies need to sell their services to grow and create jobs.

But it also affects industry in America. We know that, and that is why we have a balanced approach to our trade agreements.

Mr. Speaker, the trade agreement before us today is part of the broad context in which we should consider trade policy. It will establish an important precedent for how we craft future trade agreements.

Under the new Democratic Congress, free trade agreements must provide strong labor and environmental protections. They are essential to promoting healthy workplaces and competition for American employees and around the world.

Congress must consider each agreement on its merits. In some cases, these agreements will meet increased access for American producers and service providers. In other cases, these agreements could mean more competition and would significantly impact our workers and communities.

I understand that many of my colleagues have strong views on trade, but one thing we can all agree on and be proud of is the fact that our leadership worked vigorously to ensure that democratic principles were included in the Peru agreement.

In previous free trade agreements, these principles were noticeably absent. The initial Peru Free Trade Agreement draft reflected the ``business as usual'' approach that this administration has based its trade policies on. Democratic leadership went to Peru, met with the Peruvian president and prominent members of its Congress and developed a new free trade agreement, one that includes the strongest labor and environmental chapters in any of the world's over 300 bilateral free trade agreements.

It is not CAFTA. This is the first free trade agreement of its kind. It is a new free trade agreement, one that incorporates fully enforceable internationally recognized labor standards; that also promotes international environmental standards, including combating illegal logging, protecting the ozone layer, and our oceans; and an agreement that will provide Peruvians with lifesaving medicines. All three provisions are unprecedented in any free trade agreement and all three are core democratic principles that we should all be proud of.

This agreement is also about leveling the playing field for U.S. companies to compete in the Peruvian market. The Andean Trade Preference Act passed in 1991 and expanded in 2001 allowed Peruvian companies to benefit from duty-free trade with the United States. Meanwhile, U.S. goods exported to Peru continued to face tariffs as high as 12 percent.

The agreement before us today will give U.S. businesses immediate, duty-free access for more than 80 percent of U.S. consumer and industrial goods. This agreement will also allow us to forge a closer alliance and relationship with one of our southern neighbors. It is no secret that other countries are investing heavily in that part of the world. This agreement will send a strong message to our southern neighbors that the United States is here to help promote openness in their government and their economy.

In closing, I urge my colleagues to look at each free trade agreement based on its merits. It is easy to promote or oppose free trade unequivocally and not look at the facts of each agreement. I am confident that this agreement will benefit our Nation, benefit our workers, and benefit our businesses. This agreement will serve as a model free trade agreement for years to come.

Once again, I want to congratulate Mr. Rangel and Mr. Levin for their hard work.

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from New Hampshire (Ms. Shea-Porter).

Mr. Speaker it is my privilege to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New York, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, my friend (Mr. Rangel).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Baca).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Texas who serves on the Ways and Means Committee (Mr. Doggett).

Mr. Speaker, I would like to yield 3 minutes to my new colleague, the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Ellison).

Mr. Speaker, I would like to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Stupak).

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to one of the key brokers of this agreement, the distinguished gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Levin).

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

Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Maine (Mr. Michaud).

Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Speaker of the House.

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

Mr. Speaker, the U.S.-Peru Free Trade Agreement represents a new kind of policy, a new generation of free trade agreements. Since World War II, our international trade policy has been driven by a broad commitment to expanding economic opportunity for Americans. Producers from across the country must have access to international markets to stay competitive in an increasingly global economy.

However, we must carefully construct each agreement in a way that is fair, sound and beneficial to all countries involved. The administration's initial agreement with Peru was none of the above. I am proud that our leadership took an unprecedented and hands-on approach to ensure that this particular agreement incorporated the values and principles of the American people.

Mr. Speaker, this agreement is different than previous agreements. The labor and environmental protections in this agreement are stronger than any other previous free trade agreement. As our Nation's trade policy moves forward, I urge our colleagues to consider each potential free trade agreement on its merits. We cannot dwell on past flawed agreements. We must look toward the future with full confidence in our companies and in our workers and say that American products can compete with anyone, anywhere, at any time.

Mr. Speaker, we must lead by example, and I commend Mr. Rangel and Mr. Levin for the diligent work on this agreement.

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

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

Madam Speaker, I rise in tribute to Thomas P. Friery and his 29 years of service as the city of Sacramento's treasurer. Under Mr. Friery's nearly three decades of leadership and dedication, Sacramento has experienced great growth and prosperity. As his friends, family and coworkers gather to celebrate his farewell, I ask all my colleagues to join in honoring his leadership and many remarkable accomplishments.

Since becoming treasurer in 1978, Mr. Friery has worked under 10 mayors, and 72 councilmembers. Upon taking over as treasurer, Mr. Friery inherited the responsibility of managing the Sacramento City Employee's Retirement System and its unfunded liability of $60 million. The pension fund was expected to grow to a $170 million deficit, but under Treasurer Friery's superior financial management the deficit was eliminated in 1991, and the system now has $450 million invested in it. In doing so, Thomas Friery helped re-establish Sacramento's AA credit rating, allowing the city to borrow money at a lower cost.

Mr. Friery's innovative financial strategies have been vital to the prosperity of the city of Sacramento. City leaders and I have always

been confident of Mr. Friery's financial management skills. In 29 years of service, Thomas has always been able to provide a capable solution to the most pressing problems. Under his guidance, Sacramento became the first city pension fund in the State to invest in gold and silver. Those funds delivered 120 percent returns on the investment over a 2- year period. Additionally, over the past 29 years, the city has issued 250 bond offerings, raising more than $4 billion for the city. In the 18 years prior to Mr. Friery, the city had made only 10 bond issues worth a total of $70 million.

Mr. Friery also played a key role in the successful transition of the former Sacramento Army Depot into a business and industrial center after the depot was closed. In 1996, Treasurer Friery along with Mayor Joe Serna, assembled a financing package that included a loan of $17 million to Packard Bell Electronics for improvements to the former Army depot, which included $9 million for moving and other expenses. In the end, the company moved to Sacramento and at its peak employed 5,000 employees. The plant has since closed, but the company repaid the loan back and over $400 million in salaries were paid to local reserves. That deal spurred future development at the depot which has now grown to house over 60 companies and is far more diversified.

In another bold move, Mr. Friery was vital in ensuring that Sacramento still remains the home for the Sacramento Kings. In 1997, when the Kings were exploring alternative cities and venues, he crafted a loan that enabled the team to continue building upon its legacy. It was also Mr. Friery who helped develop the financing that was crucial in ensuring light rail was developed in the region. This significant upgrade to Sacramento's transit system has allowed for further city development and an increase in property values throughout the region.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the numerous contributions made by Sacramento City treasurer Thomas Friery during his 29 years on the job. His devotion and love to our city of Sacramento is held in the highest regards. On behalf of the people of Sacramento and the Fifth Congressional District of California, I ask all my colleagues to join me in thanking Mr. Friery for his public service as we wish him success in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 and to encourage all of my colleagues to vote to override the President's veto for this long overdue legislation.

We have not had a WRDA bill in over 7 years. If Hurricane Katrina taught us anything, it is that investing in our infrastructure is a crucial component of preparing for emergencies. Seven years is perilously close to an entire generation without a national overarching water policy.

In my hometown of Sacramento, we are all too aware of the importance of investing in water projects. We live at the confluence of two great rivers: the American and Sacramento.

Sacramento is the most at-risk river city in the Nation, and we know that we must be vigilant in our efforts to increase our flood protection. This bill marks a significant step in our efforts to increasing the security of our Nation for generations to come. To be clear, Mr. Speaker, we need this bill in Sacramento and the Nation needs this bill.

After years of inaction, the bipartisan WRDA bill we have passed comes not a moment too soon. There should be a WRDA bill coming out of Congress and signed by the President every 2 years. Unfortunately, the President has turned his back on assuring the safety and security of the American people. This strong, bipartisan legislation will take significant steps to improve our flood protection and invest in the future health of our communities.

In Sacramento we know exactly how important this bill is to our safety, and I look forward to voting to override the President's veto today.

I want to commend Chairman Jim Oberstar, Ranking Member Mica, Subcommittee Chairwoman Johnson, and Ranking Member Baker for their strong bipartisan leadership in making WRDA 2007 a reality.